Capital: Athens

Mainland Greece is the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula and the southeastern frontier of the European continent. Somewhat larger than Louisiana, it is 51,182 square miles of strikingly beautiful landscape. Variety is the hallmark of the Greek landscape. There are high mountain ranges, endless lacework of coastline and a thousand serene and friendly islands. The mainland and island shores combined add up to almost 9,400 miles, the longest coastline of any European country. Greece has long served as a bridge between Europe and Asia and is a historical and cultural destination any traveler would enjoy.

Language: Greek. Most people connected with tourism and those of a younger generation will speak some English, French, German or Italian.

Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are used.

Climate: Greece has a warm Mediterranean climate. In summer, dry hot days are often relieved by stiff breezes, especially in the north and coastal areas. Athens can be stiflingly hot. The evenings are cool. Winters are mild in the south but much colder in the north. November to March is the rainy season.