Can't see why Greece economy would affect your holiday? Isn't Portugal going the same way? and possibly others as well as Ireland - Spain isn't looking too steady either but can't see why that would discourage holidays - in fact things might be cheaper.
I've heard Portugal is great but no personal experience. I checked out some c/sites while in Spain recently and was not impressed but I know there are some good ones. Go where you fancy and don't worry about the EC and monetary problems. Maybe Scotland will join independently?????
Portugal is great, especially the north but financially in no different a state from Greece or several other countries. What's happened is that international currency speculators are taking their profits on Greece's debts - it happens all over the world but we only hear about European countries! The speculators are working their way round - Iceland, Ireland, Greece, Portugal, most recent;ly Spain - those in the Euro Zone are ultimately protected by the German and French economies. I'd start worrying when they attack the pound ... outside the Euro.
Bom dia! Having caravanned in both Greece and Portugal, I prefer Greece, mainly because I love the Greek people and their relaxed attitude to life. Of course, that might be why they're bankrupt now!! There's some wonderful scenery in Portugal, but the people and general "vibe" didn't strike us as so cheerful. But as others have pointed out, they're in just as much financial trouble as the Greeks.As far as campsites go, they can be fairly basic in both countries, certainly not as luxurious as some sites in France, Germany or Spain, but that didn't bother us too much. Our favourite campsite in Portugal was Figuera da Foz, on the Atlantic coast - fabulous beaches, and within reach of interesting towns like Coimbra, and the Roman town of Conimbriga. The Algarve beaches are nice enough, but for the real Portugal you have to head further north. We also liked the area around the Minho estuary. Porto is fascinating, and the Douro valley is lovely. There are quite a few reviews on this website.
------------- Il vaut mieux vivre ses reves que rever sa vie
Don't forget to leave a review of the French and other European campsites you have visited!
Just on a side note I'm amazed that the people wot matter (i.e. those in charge) haven't taken a big map of Europe, coloured in the countries in trouble (Portugal, Spain, Greece, Iceland, Ireland) and then realised something. Surely I can't be the only one who's noticed ?
Stuff in Greece has become mighty expensive, my friend's partner is from Crete. He has had to return home due to personal issues and even months ago fuel was £1.60 a litre. They are in real trouble. Great shame, I have had some fab holidays on Greek Islands in distant years when the Drachma ruled and a cocktail was 500 drachs. That was equivalent to £1. Mmmmm.
Quote: Originally posted by jensjakob on 08/5/2011
Frogman:Will be good to hear. E.g. gasoline looks quite expensive lately - and weather looks cold :-(
Paul_M: Do you have specific suggestions for Portugal?
just back from a week sailing based around Lefkas Fuel expensive, diesel 1.7€ ish. But thereafter no change. 4 of us ate every night for an average of 15€ per head Inc 2 lit of local vino. Produce in general same as ever if it is local . Had a week at around 24deg. Don't know what the flash bits are like , but if you are thinking about the Ionian don't be put off, it is as good as ever, but we do do rural more than 18/30. Would go back to morrow.
FM
most of euro zone is expensive other than fuel cigs and beer uk is possibly the cheapest place in eu. still i go away in winter to get warm. portugal is dearer than spain.but dont worry have a good time.i like asturia cantabria galecia and northern portugal. cant really go wrong there. best part of mainland europe in my mind. greece is nice but just along drive .have fun be nice to everybody and they will be nice to you. cheers alan
------------- vwalan
Don't forget to leave a review of the French and other European campsites you have visited!
My main worry is the cost of gasoline in Greece, as well as getting stuck in civilunrest and ferrystrikes etc :-(
And then it also looks quite cold these days - dont want to drive 2500 km for cold water and cold nights, then I might as well go to cold and rainy Norway,...
Portugal it will be. The rhetoric in Greece is now quite anti-EU, and hard IMF deadlines are coming up - and I dont want to be stuck in a country on eternal strike.
What are great routes to Portugal, and great places in Portugal?
Just got back from 1 month touring around Greece in my camper. Fuel is a bit expensive 1.60 EURO, food is very expensive so shopped in Lidl most of the time, but Greek wine is cheap & surprisingly good (don't be put off that in comes in a 1.5l plastic bottle).
Lots of free camping which will save you £15-£20 per night. Toll bridges & tunnels can be a bit expensive so watch out for those.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Greece going bankrupt - Portugal instead?
