Skopelos Destination Guide

Overview of Skopelos Skopelos is the largest of the Sporades islands. Graced with lush hills, thick pine forests and olive groves, it's the perfect setting for an unforgettable Greek holiday. Skopelos Town is a collection of charming, whitewashed houses that cling to a steep hill behind the harbour. The town is home to more than 100 churches, which is roughly one third of the island's total. Most of Skopelos' beaches are accessible by public bus, though some are a boat trip away. Visitors will find the island quieter than its neighbour Skiathos, offering a more laid-back and romantic atmosphere. Despite this, Skopelos has a decent nightlife and music scene. Great bars and a good selection of nightclubs are on offer. Shoppers can expect good, local souvenirs, but nothing especially upmarket. Visitors who appreciate hidden coves and beaches should consider hiring a boat. Also, ferries connect Skopelos with a number of islands.

Key Facts

Language: Greek is the national language, but English is widely spoken. Passport/Visa: The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. All of these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Non-EEA travellers to Greece must hold visible means of financial support to cover their stay in the country - entry may be refused if proof of sufficient funds (at least EUR 50/day) cannot be shown. It is also recommended that non-EEA members hold return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Passengers not holding onward tickets may be asked for proof of sufficient funds for their return/onward journey. Visitors requiring a visa are also required to have medical insurance, covering them for their full period of stay in Greece. Note that the admission of visa-free nationals into Greece is considered upon their arrival in the country. Visitors wishing to extend their stay in the country must register at the Aliens Police Department or at the Security Police Department BEFORE (i) the expiry date of their visa, or (ii) the end of the period of visa-free stay. NOTE: It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from the travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The official currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. All major credit cards are accepted and ATMs are widespread. Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts and 50Hz. A variety of plugs are in use, including the European-style two-pin and the round three-pin.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Travel to Skopelos Climate for Skopelos Like all the Sporadic Islands, Skopelos enjoys hot, dry summers and mild winters. Temperatures in July and August range from 82ºF (28ºC) during the day to 72ºF (22ºC) at night. Rainfall is unlikely in summer but showers can be expected between September and May. The heaviest rain falls in the winter months. Skopelos does sometimes get snow, which can be rather magical. All of the northern Sporadic Islands receive a strong wind blowing from the north. Consequently, most of their beaches are on the sheltered southern sides. Summer is by far the most popular time to visit Skopelos. That said, spring and autumn are excellent seasons as well, with lovely weather and far smaller crowds than during the peak summer months. Health Notes when travelling to Greece Travellers don't need to worry about specific health risks when visiting Greece. Most health problems come from too much sun and too much food or alcohol, though there's also the risk of encountering sea urchins, jellyfish and mosquitoes. Medical facilities in major cities are excellent but some of the smaller islands are a long way from a decent hospital. Larger towns and resorts have English-speaking private doctors and the highly professional local pharmacies can usually deal with any minor complaint. Travellers should take along any necessary prescription medication. Food and water are safe, but those visiting for short periods should consider sticking to bottled water. UK nationals are entitled to a refund on emergency hospital treatment under a reciprocal agreement between the UK and Greece, and a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should be taken on holiday for this purpose. Safety Notes when travelling to Greece Though Greece is a safe destination, peak tourist season usually sees a spike in petty theft cases, especially in crowded areas. Visitors should conceal valuables or store them in hotel safes and watch out for pickpockets. Violent crime is rare but there have been incidents on some islands; visitors travelling alone should not accept lifts from strangers. Customs in Greece Though more traditional than the British in some ways, most Greeks are friendly and welcoming enough to seem intrusive to reserved British tourists. Greeks are also the heaviest smokers in Europe and will often ignore the smoking ban in public places. Swimwear is expected on the beach but tourists should dress properly in bars and restaurants. Duty Free in Greece Travellers visiting from inside the EU can bring in 800 cigarettes, or 200 cigars, or 400 cigarillos, or 1kg of tobacco, 10 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume over 22 percent, 20 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume under 22 percent, 90 litres of wine and 110 litres of beer - provided they are for personal consumption. Visitors arriving from outside the EU and are over the age of 17 will not pay duty for 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 100 cigarillos, or 250g of tobacco (if arriving by air), 1 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume over 22 percent, 2 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume under 22 percent, 4 litres of wine and 16 litres of beer. Doing Business in Greece Greeks prefer to dress formally in dark-coloured suits for men and stylish outfits for women. Punctuality is important to them though meetings may not start immediately. Visitors should offer a firm handshake and maintain eye contact when greeting Greek men and women for the first time, and print business cards in both Greek and English. There is no ritual surrounding the exchange of business cards. As Greeks like getting to know their colleagues before conducting any serious business, it's unlikely a deal will take shape at the first meeting. The local culture follows a hierarchical structure and visitors should show respect in the same way. Gift giving is common in social settings but not necessarily in business. Communication in Greece The international access code for Greece is +30 and the outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). The city code for Athens is 21; free wifi is available at cafes, hotels, restaurants and similar establishments throughout Greece. Purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option to paying high international roaming costs.

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Tipping in Greece A service charge is automatically added to most restaurant bills and an additional tip it not expected -- though always welcome. Rounding up the bill is sufficient for drinks at cafes; taxis, porters and cloakroom attendants will expect a tip. Passport/Visa Note The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. All of these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Non-EEA travellers to Greece must hold visible means of financial support to cover their stay in the country - entry may be refused if proof of sufficient funds (at least EUR 50/day) cannot be shown. It is also recommended that non-EEA members hold return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Passengers not holding onward tickets may be asked for proof of sufficient funds for their return/onward journey. Visitors requiring a visa are also required to have medical insurance, covering them for their full period of stay in Greece. Note that the admission of visa-free nationals into Greece is considered upon their arrival in the country. Visitors wishing to extend their stay in the country must register at the Aliens Police Department or at the Security Police Department BEFORE (i) the expiry date of their visa, or (ii) the end of the period of visa-free stay. NOTE: It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from the travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

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Attractions in Skopelos Skopelos has sand and pebble beaches. Sometimes, a beautiful blanket of snow covers the island during winter. Among its attractions, the Folklore Museum of Skopelos will appeal to culture lovers. Nature lovers will find the National Marine Park both engaging and informative. However, the island's beautiful natural landscapes define it as a tourist destination. They create a wonderful setting for family holidays or romantic getaways. Visitors enjoy swimming and snorkeling at Staphylos and Panormos beaches, and picnicking at Amarandos' deserted coves. Horse riding and sailing trips round out the island's list of activities.

Skopelos Beaches The island of Skopelos has plenty of beautiful beaches for visitors to enjoy; in fact, it boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Some of them may be recognisable from the film Mamma Mia which was shot on the island. Most are shingle beaches lapped by clear blue waters, great for snorkelling, fishing and swimming. There are usually sunbeds and umbrellas available at the beach, and waterfront taverns nearby. It is ideal to hire a boat to sail to private, secluded coves at one's leisure, but by car or even bus one can still reach lots of great beaches. Favourite Skopelos beaches include Stafilos, which is just just under three miles (4km) from Skopelos town, and is a very pretty beach with a bar and a lifeguard. There is parking for cars and the bus does stop at this beach. Panormos is another favourite; the bay boasts one of the most beautiful, natural ports in the world and it is celebrated for its sunsets. Beware that the water on Panormos gets deep quite fast. Milia is considered by many to be the most attractive beach on the island - it is long and white and has pine forests descending all the way to the beach. The Amarandos coves are also a popular attraction.

Folklore Museum of Skopelos The Folklore Museum of Skopelos is housed in a traditional building, its interior reminiscent of Skopelitian homes of the past. The museum exhibits local 19th and 20th-century artefacts focusing on three areas of handiwork practiced traditionally in Skopelos: embroidery, weaving, and handicraft work including ceramics, woodcarving, the making of knives, tools and agricultural implements, and folk art paintings. There are also nautical exhibits and model ships on display, illustrating the proud nautical history of the area. The museum has recreated rooms and outfits to give visitors an idea of how locals lived and looked in centuries past. It is a small but charming museum and should'nt take much time to explore; it is interesting to walk into this old house and become immersed in the belongings and skilled produce of past inhabitants. For those passionate about arts and crafts this is a must. As the collection is modern and not ancient, those tourists who wish to explore ancient Greece need not visit. Address: Skopelos Island, Sporades, 37003 - Magnesia Website: http://www.skopelos.net/culture/museum.htm

National Marine Park The National Marine Park of North Sporades is a great attraction for visitors to Skopelos. The park was the first designated Marine Park in the country and is currently the largest marine protected area in Europe. Besides the open ocean, the park includes Alonnisos, six smaller islands (Peristera, Kyra Panagia, Gioura, Psathura, Piperi and Skantzoura), and 22 uninhabited islets and rocky outcrops. The waters are a conservation area as they are the breeding grounds for endangered Mediterranean monk seals. There are also a number of dolphin and whale species in the area, including the striped dolphin and the long-finned pilot whale. The park is very beautiful and there is lots to explore. One of the most popular and beautiful beaches is Agios Dimitrios, a pebble beach with stunning turquoise water, which has been voted several times as one of the most lovely beaches in the world. There are many wonderful beaches to explore in the park and several great walking paths. On Alonnisos you will find Patitiri port, from where many boats depart to all the beaches of the island as well as the rest of the islands of the Marine Park, where access is permitted. Some areas are kept completely free from human influence. Address: North Sporades (Alonissos) Website: http://www.alonissos-park.gr

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Currency The official currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. All major credit cards are accepted and ATMs are widespread.

Exchange rate for 1 EUR - Euro 1.12 BMD 1.12 USD 0.77 GBP 121.65 JPY 1.46 CAD 1.10 CHF Bermudan Dollar U.S. Dollar U.K. Pound Sterling Japanese Yen Canadian Dollar Swiss Franc 1.54 AUD 28.05 UAH 377.26 KZT 1,682.21 LBP 0.80 LYD 7.66 BOB Australian Dollar Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakhstani Tenge Lebanese Pound Libyan Dinar Bolivian Boliviano 120.52 NPR 0.43 OMR 4.07 QAR 1.54 SGD 9.26 SEK 7.41 TTD Nepalese Rupee Omani Rial Qatari Rial Singapore Dollar Swedish Krona Trinidad Tobago Dollar 11.15 VEF 51.20 DOP 7.51 HRK 20.82 MXN 654.97 XOF 3.54 PGK Venezuelan Bolivar Dominican Peso Croatian Kuna Mexican Peso West African CFA Franc Papua New Guinean kina 1.12 BSD 2.36 FJD 25.29 HNL 123.47 DZD 1,330.84 MMK 12.50 BWP Bahamian Dollar Fiji Dollar Honduran Lempira Algerian Dinar Myanma Kyat Botswana Pula 3.76 PEN 774.75 CLP 534.10 AMD 27.00 CZK 22.32 MDL 138.84 ISK Peruvian Nuevo Sol Chilean Peso Armenia Dram Czech Koruna Moldova Lei Icelandic Krona 3,282.94 UZS 4.31 ILS 0.79 JOD 0.34 KWD 35.02 UYU 39.68 MUR Uzbekistan Sum Israeli New Sheqel Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Uruguayan Peso Mauritian Rupee 31.85 NIO 9.32 NOK 4.38 PLN 4.19 SAR 163.12 LKR 39.79 THB Nicaraguan Córdoba Norwegian Krone Polish Zloty Saudi Riyal Sri Lanka Rupee Thai Baht 4.10 AED 4.02 BRL 4.52 RON 8.68 HKD 656.46 XAF 25,106.99 VND U.A.E Dirham Brazilian Real Romanian New Leu Hong Kong Dollar Central African CFA Franc Vietnamese Dong 15.58 ARS 3.01 XCD 8.75 GTQ 10.92 MAD 0.42 BHD 1.12 PAB Argentine Peso East Caribbean Dollar Guatemalan Quetzal Moroccan Dirham Bahrain Dinar Panamanian Balboa 1.67 AZN 3,482.98 COP 76.30 KGS 312.53 HUF 8.79 TJS 15,285.70 IDR Azerbaijan Manat Colombian Peso Kyrgyzstan Som Hungarian Forint Tajikistan Ruble Indonesian Rupiah 9.92 EGP 1,330.60 KRW 6,333.44 PYG 4.65 MYR 601.85 CRC 1.64 NZD Egyptian Pound South Korean Won Paraguayan Guaraní Malaysian Ringgit Costa Rican Colón New Zealand Dollar 117.01 PKR 74.62 RUB 17.43 ZAR 2.37 TND 2.23 BBD 1.96 BGN Pakistani Rupee Russian Rouble South African Rand Tunisian Dinar Barbadian Dollar Bulgarian Lev 3.30 TRY 52.08 PHP 36.44 TWD 219.51 NGN 119.70 XPF 4.37 GHS Turkish Lira Philippine Peso New Taiwan Dollar Nigerian Naira CFP Franc Ghanaian Cedi 139.55 JMD 2.01 ANG 1.54 BND 123.51 RSD 7.35 CNY 22,229.06 BYR Jamaican Dollar Neth. Antillean Guilder Brunei Dollar Serbian Dinar Chinese Yuan Belarussian Ruble 7.43 DKK 3.84 TMT 75.14 INR

Danish Krone New Turkmenistan Manat Indian Rupee

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