Rhodes Town Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication: SIM Cards & Wi-Fi

Remain connected with local options for mobile data and internet access.

Connectivity Options

Prepaid SIM cards are available from Cosmote, Vodafone, or Nova. Airalo eSIMs are also a convenient option.
Wi-Fi is widely available and free in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Solis portable Wi-Fi is an alternative.
A passport or ID is needed to purchase a local SIM card.

Language & Translation

Navigating language differences can be straightforward in tourist areas.

Communication Aids

Greek is the official language. English is common in tourist areas. Rosetta Stone can help with basic phrases.
The Google Translate app (with offline Greek pack) supports quick translations.
Hellenic Post (ELTA) offices are available for postal services.

Airport Services

Enhance your airport experience with these services.

Departure & Arrival Support

Priority Pass access to airport lounges worldwide.
Compensair assists with flight delay, cancellation, or refused entry onto the plane compensation.
Inquire at the airport for specific services and facilities.

Essential Phrases

A few basic Greek phrases for easier interactions.

Daily Greetings

Hello: Yassas (formal/plural) / Yassou (informal/singular)
Thank you: Efharisto (ef-ha-rees-TOH)
Please/You're welcome: Parakalo (pa-ra-ka-LOH)

More Phrases

Basic Responses & Questions

Yes: Ne (neh)
No: Ohi (OH-hee)
Pardon me: Signomi (seegh-NOH-mee)
How much?: Poso kani? (PO-so KA-nee?)

Daily Greetings & Words

Good morning: Kalimera (ka-lee-MEH-ra)
Good evening: Kalispera (ka-lee-SPEH-ra)
Goodbye: Andio (AHN-dee-oh)
Water: Nero (NE-roh)

Local Communication Insights:

Learning a few basic Greek phrases supports respectful interactions with locals. Smiles and gestures also help bridge language gaps.

Business Hours & Schedules

Understand the rhythms of daily operations in Rhodes Town.

Tourist Shops

Generally open daily from 9:00/10:00 AM until late evening (10:00/11:00 PM) during high season.

Local Shops

Many close for a midday siesta (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM), reopening until 8:00/9:00 PM. Closed on Sundays.

Restaurants & Cafes

Restaurants open for lunch (from 1:00 PM) and dinner (from 7:00/8:00 PM). Cafes operate from early morning until past midnight.

Banking & ATMs

Access to financial services throughout Rhodes Town.

Financial Access

Banks typically operate Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM.
ATMs are widely available 24/7, near banks and in central areas.
Currency exchange services are available in tourist zones.

Seasonal Variations

Business operations change with the seasons on Rhodes.

Winter & Summer Patterns

Many tourist businesses close from November to March/April.
Ferry schedules significantly reduce during winter.
Public holidays, especially Orthodox Christian ones, mean closures for banks and many shops.

Public Holidays and Transport

Major Public Holidays

Easter (movable, often later than Western Easter).
August 15th (Assumption of Mary).
October 28th (Ohi Day).

Holiday Impact on Services

Banks, post offices, and many shops close on public holidays.
Public transport may operate on a reduced schedule.
Christmas (Dec 25-26) and New Year's Day (January 1ST) also mark closures.

Scheduling Advice:

Look at local schedules for holidays during your visit; this may influence presence of services and transport.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Navigating social customs in Rhodes.

Greeting & Attire

Simple gestures and appropriate clothing show respect.

Social Customs

A simple "Yassas" (hello) is polite. Handshakes are common.
Modest dress (dress to cover shoulders and knees) is custom at churches and monasteries.
Limit beachwear to the beach or poolside areas. Casual wear suits elsewhere.

Dining & Photography

Dining & Visuals

Photos of public places is generally fine. Ask permission before photographing individuals.
Be discreet in churches; no flash during services. Some museums may have photo restrictions.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Certain subjects and gestures carry cultural sensitivity.

Topics to Note

Refrain from talking about of politics (especially Greek-Turkish relations or Cyprus) or religion unless the context is appropriate.
Do not use the "ok" sign (thumb and forefinger forming a circle); it can be offensive.
Waving with an open palm (fingers spread, the "moutza") is considered rude.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Rhodes Town welcomes diverse visitors.

Inclusive Travel

Greece generally welcomes all, especially in tourist areas.
Rhodes Town is welcoming. Public displays of affection are common for heterosexual couples.
While same-sex relationships are recognized, public displays may receive varied reactions outside liberal urban areas or specific gay-friendly venues.

Accessibility Information

Mobility Considerations

Rhodes Town's New Town has wider sidewalks, supporting better accessibility.
The Old Town has challenges with cobblestones, steps, and uneven alleys.
Many historic buildings lack ramps or elevators.

Transport & Services

Public buses generally possess limited accessibility for wheelchair users.
Taxis may be an option if foldable wheelchairs find accommodation.
Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited. Guide dogs typically find acceptance.

Planning Accessibility

Hotels & Resorts

Some newer hotels and larger resorts offer accessible rooms and facilities.
Contact specific hotels directly for accessibility details.

Resources for Accessibility

Local disability organizations may share further information.
Planning routes carefully beforehand is advisable.

Accessibility Note:

For visitors with specific accessibility needs, direct interaction with service providers before travel will assist in planning a pleasant journey.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Travel mindfully and positively impact Rhodes.

Environmental Considerations

Protecting the environment is an important feature of a responsible journey.

Eco-Conscious Choices

Rhodes has protected natural areas, like the Valley of the Butterflies.
Greece's islands experience shortage of water; be mindful of water usage.
Recycling bins for plastic, paper, and glass are more frequent in urban areas. Dispose of waste responsibly.

Eco-Friendly Stays & Tours

Seek out accommodations and operators dedicated to sustainability.

Green Travel Options

Look for lodging and tour companies that embrace environmental sustainability. Ecobnb lists eco-friendly accommodations.
Businesses may use renewable energy, water-saving measures, and waste minimization.
Support local conservation projects. Certifications from eco-labels confirm commitment.

Cultural Sensitivity

Respect local traditions, sites, plus residents.

Mindful Engagement

Respect archaeological sites and historical monuments. Stay on marked paths.
Do not photograph private homes or individuals without their explicit consent.
Dress modestly at religious sites (covered shoulders and knees). Maintain a quiet demeanor.

Economic Impact

Support the local economy and avoid harmful practices.

Local Support

Help local businesses by buying from them directly, like independent traditional taverns and shops. Patagonia and Package Free Shop for sustainable goods.
Buy directly from local artisan shops.
The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood) supports conservation efforts.

Ethical Travel & Local Support

Community Tourism

Choose traditional local tavernas and small independent markets. Hire local guides for tours to distribute tourist revenue locally. G Adventures is an ethical tour operator.

Avoiding Exploitation

Avoid activities that exploit animals (e.g., donkey rides if animals appear mistreated) or local communities. Report suspicious activities to the tourist police.

Carbon Offset Suggestion:

Consider offsetting flight emissions through reputable carbon offset programs like Terrapass. These invest in projects that lessen greenhouse gas emissions.

Rhodes Town Travel Tips