Is it safe to travel to Athens now?

We interviewed Sofia Lizzio, the AthenStyle Hostel Manager, to understand what's the real situation in Greece

This summer Athens is on everyone's lips...there would be nothing strange considering Greece is one of the most popular travel destinations for summer, but the problem is the Greek capital is mostly mentioned as a reference to the severe economic crisis that involves the Hellenic country.

Therefore, some travelers have faced the problem to question if Athens is a safe travel destination for this summer? That's why we decided to interview Sofia Lizzio, the AthenStyle Hostel Manager, who explained us many interesting and luckily, reassuring issues.

1.THESE DAYS GREECE IS ON EVERYONE'S LIPS: HOW ARE YOU COPING WITH THE CURRENT SITUATION?

We are stressed of course, but that doesn’t affect our everyday life. We are anxious to see what happens, but everything operates as it used to.

2. SO EVERYDAY LIFE SEEMS TO GO ON AS USUAL, IS IT RIGHT?

Yes, the sun is shining and daily life is going on without any danger. We have 160 guests checking in and out of our hostel on a daily basis that haven't encountered any problems with their stay. The airport is normally open, the ferries depart normally and there are no restrictions for you to withdraw cash from ATMs.

3. BUT WE SAW ON TV AND READ ON THE NEWSPAPERS THAT BANKS IMPOSE LIMITS ON ATM WITHDRAWALS, ISN'T IT TRUE?

Not really, since the ATM withdrawals limits are not applied to foreign tourists.

4. IS THERE ANY POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS SITUATION OR ANY AREA THAT IS NOT RECOMMENDED TO VISITING ATHENS?

As we already said, life goes on normally. The beaches are full of people, bars and restaurants are open and filled with guests, people are strolling on the beautiful streets of Athens and continue their trips to the islands.

5. HAVE YOU SEEN A DECREASE ON THE FLOW OF VISITORS THIS SUMMER? OR IS YOUR HOSTEL WORK NOT AFFECTED BY THIS CRISIS?

It is one of the busiest summer periods we had over the past few years. Both Athens as well as the islands are filled with people. Everybody is affected by the crisis in Greece, but that doesn’t let us diminish the quality services we provide to our guests.

6. WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SAY TO OUR READERS WHO ARE IN DOUBT WHETHER TO TRAVEL TO GREECE THIS SUMMER OR NOT?

We would say we are waiting for them with a big smile on our face, and we are ready to give them the best tips and help them plan their Greek Summer Vacation!