In the shore excursion reviews, several places mention buying drinks or food from a local vendor. Do you recomment having Euros in advance of the cruise?
In your opinion, is it possible that our ports in Greece might be redesignated?
I did buy some euros before we left home. The only place I could get them was at AAA Travel, because my bank does not have that option,and you need to bank at a bank that sells them to buy them..Stupid rule I think. I was told not to get them in the airports..There are atm machines all over.
I paid $100.00 and got $61.00 in euros. I purchased more and got $63.00.
Depending... if there are demonstrations that would be a safety concern, you may not port. Follow the news closely, and see if your ship diverts, right before your cruise..It's probably on a day to day basis I would think though.
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No problem getting Euros when you land in Europe; just use ATM at airport.
No problem with Greece; fantastic country with some fantastic islands. ENJOY!
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Marc
"The test of a first rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function."
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Seven Seas Navigator (12nts) - San Francisco - Vancouver - May13
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If you can get your Euros before you depart it would be a good idea, not sure about Stateside banks, but for Europeans we will often find that our cards are blocked to avoid theft/fraud unless we advise the card issuer in advance.
If you can't get any before you fly, then still try the EU banks, you will always get your card back, or as a last resort (as their rates are usually bad) buy them on the ship, or their onboard ATM.
As for security, I wouldn't expect any issues, I don't believe any ships have been diverted yet, and the situation is highly unlikely to get any worse (imho).
One word on food & drink is to avoid salad & even ice cubes in eastern Med ports, as they are more likely to contain bacteria which could cause upset stomaches & spoil your experience.
Well on that depressing note, I'll still wish you a lovely vacation,
Alan.
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