Communication: Preveza

SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Greece has three main mobile network operators: Cosmote, Vodafone, and Wind (now Nova).

Getting Connected

Purchase pre-paid SIM cards at kiosks, official mobile provider stores, or some mini-markets.
You will need your passport for registration.
These pre-paid packages are affordable and feature a generous allowance of data, calls, and SMS.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is widely available, and local SIM cards give mobile data on the go.

Access Points

Wi-Fi is frequently free in hotels, apartments, cafes, restaurants, and many public areas.
Speeds are generally reliable for browsing and communication.
Using a local SIM card gives reliable internet access for navigation apps and information outside Wi-Fi zones.

Postal Services

The Hellenic Post (ELTA) manages postal services.

Sending Mail

The main post office in Preveza city is centrally located.
Services include sending letters and parcels.
Stamps are available at post offices and many kiosks.

Language & Translation

The official language is Greek. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Translation Tools

Google Translate is an invaluable tool; download the Greek language pack for offline use.
A small, physical Greek phrasebook is good for quick reference and for showing effort.
Learning a few basic Greek phrases can make your interactions better with locals.

Phrases

Common Greetings & Courtesy

Hello/Goodbye: Geia sou (YAH-soo, informal) / Geia sas (YAH-sas, formal)
Please: Parakalo (pah-rah-kah-LOH)
Thank you: Efharisto (ef-hah-rees-TOH)
Yes: Nai (neh)

Useful for Travelers

No: Ochi (OH-hee)
Excuse me / Sorry: Sygnomi (seegh-NOH-mee)
How much?: Poso kani? (POH-soh KAH-nee?)
The bill (check): Logariasmos (loh-ghah-ree-ahs-MOHS)

Stay Connected Globally

For convenient mobile data abroad, consider an eSIM from Airalo. If a portable Wi-Fi device is more your style, explore options at Solis Wi-Fi. To practice your Greek before you go, try Rosetta Stone.

Business Hours & Schedules

Shop Hours

Smaller shops: 9 AM-2 PM, 5 PM-9 PM (weekdays), 9 AM-2 PM (Saturdays). Supermarkets: 8 AM/9 AM-9 PM (Mon-Sat).

Dining Hours

Restaurants: Lunch 1 PM-4 PM, Dinner 7 PM/8 PM-late. Cafes/Bars: Early morning-late night.

Banking Hours

Banks: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Closed on weekends. ATMs are widely available.

Public Holidays

Greece observes several public holidays; many are religious. On these days, banks, post offices, and many shops close.

Dates

New Year's Day (January 1), Epiphany (January 6).
Clean Monday, Independence Day (March 25).
Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday (movable Orthodox Easter).
Labour Day (May 1), Whit Monday, Assumption Day (August 15), Ohi Day (October 28).
Christmas Day (December 25), St. Stephen's Day (December 26).

Seasonal Closures

Many tourist-oriented businesses in Preveza function seasonally.

Off-Season Notes

Businesses typically open from May to October.
Outside this period (November to April), many may be closed or have limited hours.
If traveling in the low season, verify opening hours in advance.

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Smart Scheduling

Plan ahead by verifying business hours, especially if your trip includes public holidays or falls during the low season.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Respectful interactions for a pleasant visit to Preveza.

Greek Greetings

Handshakes are common. Close friends and family frequently exchange a kiss on each cheek.

How to Greet

Handshakes are standard upon introduction.
Cheek kisses are for close acquaintances.
Use "Geia sou" (YAH-soo) for informal greetings, "Geia sas" (YAH-sas) for formal.

Appropriate Attire

Dress modestly when visiting churches, monasteries, and other sacred places.

Dress Appropriately

For religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women.
Carry a light scarf or sarong for quick cover-ups.
Everyday wear is casual; smart casual is good for evening dining.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Tipping is customary but not obligatory. Sharing `mezedes` is a common practice.

Dining Customs

Round up the bill or leave 5-10% for good service at restaurants.
For cafes and taxis, rounding up to the nearest Euro is fine.
Ordering small plates (`mezedes`) to share is a sociable way to dine.

Photography Etiquette

It is fine to take photos in public areas and at tourist attractions.

Photo Ethics

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially children.
Photography may be prohibited in certain museums or inside religious sites.
Look for signs indicating restrictions and respect any requests not to take photos.

Sensitive Topics & Taboos

Avoid These Discussions

Avoid discussing sensitive political topics, unless a local initiates the conversation.
Avoid openly criticizing Greek culture, food, or family.
The "mounting the hand" gesture (open palm, fingers spread, pushed towards someone) is offensive.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Considerations

Greece is generally traditional but increasingly open, especially in tourist areas.
While more conservative than Western Europe, larger cities and popular areas are generally accepting.
Exercise discretion with public displays of affection for same-sex couples, as attitudes vary.

Religious Site Conduct

Dress & Demeanor

Dress Code: Shoulders and knees covered for all. Women may need to cover hair in some monasteries.
Men should remove hats before entering.
Voice & Behavior: Speak in a low voice and maintain a quiet demeanor. Silence mobile phones.

Photography & Rules

Photography: Inquire about rules; some sites permit no-flash, others prohibit completely.
Specific Rules: Observe and follow any posted signs or instructions from staff.
Some monasteries might provide skirts for women at the entrance.

Cultural Harmony

Being mindful of local norms and showing respect for Greek culture will greatly enrich your travel experience in Preveza.

Accessibility Information

Preveza's infrastructure is undergoing upgrades, but its level varies.

Mobility Access: City & Hotels

Access for travelers with mobility challenges varies across Preveza.

Local Environment

The waterfront promenade (Paralia) is relatively flat and enjoyable for strolling.
The old town features narrow, uneven cobblestone streets and numerous steps, which may pose challenges.
Newer hotels and those recently renovated frequently have accessible rooms, ramps, and elevators.

Transportation Accessibility

Public transportation accessibility can be limited.

Transport Options

Public buses (KTEL) might have limited accessibility; newer models may have some features.
Taxis are an option, but not all vehicles suit larger wheelchairs; arrange specific vehicles if needed.
Aktion National Airport (PVK) is mostly accessible, with ramps and facilities for reduced mobility.

Accessible Attractions

While some sites present challenges, others are more accommodating.

Site Access

The Archaeological Museum of Nicopolis is generally designed for accessibility.
Some organized beaches (e.g., portions of Monolithi Beach) may have accessible ramps or pathways.
Preveza Port's main area is relatively flat and simple for embarking or disembarking.

Sensory Impairment Support

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited in Preveza.

Assistance Available

Information in Braille or sign language interpretation is not widely available.
Assistance dogs are generally accepted in public places.
If specific support is needed, contact your accommodation or a local tourism office in advance.

Accessibility Resources

For travelers with specific accessibility needs, pre-planning is very important.

Direct Communication

Directly communicate your needs with hotels, tour operators, and transport providers before your trip.

Organizational Support

Contact the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) or local disability organizations for current information.

Plan for Access

Pre-planning and directly asking questions about accessibility features make for a smoother and more enjoyable journey for all.

Communication