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Travel Preparation

Travel Preparation

Saronic Gulf Islands, Greece

Useful Preparations

Start your planning well in advance, especially for high season travel.

Chronological Planning Outline

A systematic approach to your pre-trip schedule.

3-6M

Months Ahead

Book International Flights

Secure flights to Athens (ATH) for better prices.

Arrange Accommodation

Book your Hydra lodging, especially for high season.

Check Passport & Visa

Verify passport validity (3 months beyond departure, issued within 10 years for Schengen) and begin visa applications.

1-2M

Weeks Prior

Book Ferry Tickets

Secure your Piraeus to Hydra ferry via platforms like Ferryhopper.

Arrange Travel Insurance

Obtain comprehensive travel insurance for medical needs, trip cancellations, and lost luggage through World Nomads.

Consult a Doctor

Seek medical advice for recommended vaccinations for Greece.

2-4W

Closer to Departure

Confirm All Bookings

Verify flights, ferries, accommodation, and any pre-booked tours.

Acquire Travel Gear

Purchase a Universal power adapter and items like a Snorkel set.

Duplicate Documents

Make digital and physical copies of all documents; store them securely.

Week Prior Essentials

Final checks one week before your journey.

Pre-Departure Tasks

  • Pack lightly, keeping Hydra's car-free environment in mind.
  • Organize digital and physical document copies for easy access.
  • Inform your bank and credit card providers of your travel plans.
  • Download apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and Ferryhopper.

A Few Days Before

Immediate pre-departure steps.

Last-Minute Checks

  • Reconfirm flight and ferry times, as schedules can adjust.
  • Charge all your electronic devices completely.
  • Arrange for airport transfer to Athens International Airport.
  • Plan for home care (pets, mail, security).

Advanced Bookings & Research

bookings and information gathering before your trip.

Reservations

  • Flights to Athens.
  • Ferry tickets to Hydra.
  • Accommodation on Hydra.
  • Consider restaurant or specialized boat trip bookings.

In-Depth Research

  • Consult travel blogs for unique perspectives.
  • Explore online forums for traveler insights.
  • Review official tourism websites for current information.
  • View recent visitor photos for an island feel.

Historical & Cultural Context

  • Read about Hydra's history to appreciate its landmarks fully.
  • This preparation leads to a richer travel journey.
  • Anticipation builds with each piece of knowledge acquired.

Friendly Reminder

Provide a copy of your itinerary, accommodation details, and contact information to a trusted friend or family member at home. This serves as a point of contact during any urgent situation.

Arrival Procedure

These steps ease your transition upon arrival in Athens and then on Hydra.

Initial Steps in Athens

  • 1
    Immigration:

    Clear immigration at Athens International Airport (ATH).

  • 2
    Baggage Claim:

    Collect your luggage at the designated area.

  • 3
    Transfer to Piraeus:

    Proceed to your chosen transfer method to Piraeus port.

Hydra Arrival & Orientation

  • Ferry Gate:

    Upon arrival at Piraeus, locate the correct gate for your ferry to Hydra.

  • Hotel Location:

    Upon arrival at Hydra Port, identify your accommodation's position.

  • Luggage Transport:

    Determine if donkey transport or walking is suitable for your luggage.

Financial & Connectivity Start

Currency Exchange

Withdraw Euros from an ATM at the airport or Piraeus upon arrival.

This ensures immediate access to local currency for initial expenses.

Local SIM Card

Purchase a local SIM card at the airport if you desire local connectivity.

This can offer better rates for data and calls than international roaming.

Immediate Needs

Buy any immediate necessities like bottled water.

Staying hydrated, especially in warmer months, is a priority.

Transfer Insights

From Athens Airport to Piraeus, choose the X96 bus, Metro, or a taxi. From Hydra Port to your hotel, walking, donkey luggage transport, or a water taxi to a distant beach are your options.

Departure Arrangement

Plan for your departure from Hydra to ensure a smooth conclusion to your journey.

Souvenirs & Refunds

  • If you acquired souvenirs, especially fragile items, plan for luggage restrictions.
  • Ask local shops about shipping options, though these may be limited or costly.
  • If you made eligible purchases for VAT refund, keep necessary shop documentation.
  • The refund process typically happens at Athens International Airport before leaving Greece/EU.

Timely Departure

  • For your ferry from Hydra, reach the port a minimum of 30 minutes before departure.
  • If connecting to an international flight, allot sufficient time for the ferry to Piraeus.
  • Also, factor in the transfer to Athens Airport (at least 2-3 hours before your flight).
  • Double-check your ferry and flight times one last time before leaving.

Departure Checklist

Ensure all loose ends are tied before your final departure.

Final Review

  • Pack any items for your journey into your carry-on bag.
  • Confirm all bookings, including local transfers and onward travel.
  • Keep your passport and tickets readily accessible.
  • Confirm you have all personal belongings and no items left behind.

Airport Transition

  • Plan your route from Piraeus to Athens Airport carefully.
  • Consider traffic conditions, especially during peak hours in Athens.
  • Allocate extra time for unforeseen delays.
  • Arrive at the airport with ample time for check-in and security.

Final Tip

Ensure you have all necessary travel documents within easy reach for the final legs of your journey.

This includes passports, boarding passes, and any visa confirmations.