Tourist alert by 9 countries: Throw credit cards to the Greek wind, but keep your caution!

After talks in Brussels broke down in acrimony, there were recommendations and warnings made by countries to their nationals traveling to Greece.

United States:

The State Department alerted U.S. citizens on Sunday that there was the “possibility of disruptions to banking services – including credit-card processing and servicing of ATMs – throughout Greece in light of developments within the local economy. International and local media are reporting that banks will remain closed starting on Monday, June 29, 2015, and that capital controls may be imposed before they re-open. U.S. citizens are encouraged to carry more than one means of payment (cash, debit cards, credit cards), and make sure to have enough cash on hand to cover emergencies and any unexpected delays.” U.S. citizens were also advised to avoid political rallies and demonstrations “as instances of unrest can occur. Exercise caution and common sense: Avoid the areas of demonstrations, and if you find yourself too close to a demonstration, move in the opposite direction and seek shelter. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.”

The U.S. Embassy maintains a website with information about anticipated demonstrations, rallies, and strikes. We encourage all U.S. citizens to review their personal security plans, remain aware of their surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. U.S. citizens should maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance their personal security. Exercise vigilance to protect against pickpocketing and secure valuables in hotel rooms when traveling. For additional information, please refer to “Travelers Checklist.”

U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Greece are encouraged to enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy or nearest Consulate to contact them in the case of an emergency. U.S. citizens without Internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy in Athens. Regularly monitor the Department’s website where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Greece.

Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). You can also stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution. You can follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well.

United Kingdom

Britain’s foreign office warned travellers “of the possibility that banking services – including credit card processing and servicing of ATMs — throughout Greece could potentially become limited at short notice.”

“Make sure you have enough euros in cash to cover emergencies, unforeseen circumstances and any unexpected delays.

Germany

The German foreign ministry recommended on Sunday that tourists were warned to “become familiar with an adequate supply” of cash when visiting Greece and keep tabs on the evolving situation.

Brussels

Along the same lines as other countries, Belgians were warned to have amounts of cash with them.

Netherlands

The Netherlands warned that Dutch travelers should be on alert for changes. It is stressed that credit cards may be rendered useless to them and encouraging them to take cash.

Sweden

Swedish travelers were warned: “There is some information according to which some restaurants and filling stations haven’t accepted card payments for some time and are taking just cash.”

Denmark + Finland

Both countries warned their nationals not to rely on credit cards during their vacation to Greece.

Poland

Polish Prime Minister Ewa Kopacz last week urged Poles visiting Greece to “not rely only on cards and ATM machines” and were advised to take cash.

Greece response

The Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE) issued an announcement in response to the political developments concerning Greece. The statement came after Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras called for a referendum on July 5 on whether Greece should accept or reject the demands of the country’s creditors.

“Tourists that are currently holidaying and enjoying the Greek tourism experience have not been affected so far,” said the association. “We must aim to stay focused on the needs of the tourism season.”

The confederation called on the Greek tourism industry to be in alert to ensure that people enjoy their vacations and ensure the smooth oepration of tourism enterprises. SETE said that all state and private sector services are obliged to have strong reflexes and show composure.