Do’s and Don’ts for your Zakynthos holiday

When we go on holiday, many of us have an important check list, passport, tickets, suitcase etc. but what about the customs and laws of where we choose to visit? How many visitors investigate all the things they should and shouldn’t be doing in the country their travelling to?
 
Whilst Greece is an EU country, like many other places they still have certain things that if done incorrectly could upset the locals, be frowned upon or even land you with a fine. Every country in the world is different which is what makes going on holiday to another destination so special. Zakynthos is a great place, and it’s quite laid back, but we’ve put together a list of a few things that visitors should be aware of for their own peace of mind.
 
Alcohol and drugs
There are strict rules regarding both Alcohol and drugs on Zakynthos. Drinking too much and getting into a fight will see you arrested and possibly lead to being fined, especially if there’s indecent behaviour involved, such as revealing private parts of the body.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is also a big no, as this can also lead to fines or arrest. Recreational drugs of all kinds are illegal (including Class C), you can be arrested and charged for both possession and importation of them. Nitrous oxide (balloons), is also illegal on Zakynthos and may lead to fines or arrest, there are also health implications of using nitrous oxide which could land you in hospital.
 
Dress Code
There’s no strict dress code on Zakynthos, but visitors should be mindful that if they’re visiting churches or monasteries on the island, most notably Agios Dionysios, they should dress accordingly. Both men and women should refrain from wearing shorts inside a religious building and should instead wear long trousers (or long skirts if female). Any women wearing short tops, including crop tops/spaghetti straps, should cover themselves with a shawl or other top. Beach wear is strictly a no!
 
Anyone visiting the Business District, eating in a restaurant or visiting a shop or supermarket whilst on the island should also cover up, this also goes for non-beach resorts such as Zakynthos Town. Walking around Town, shops, or attempting to eat out in your swimwear is frowned upon, so please be respectful and cover up!
 
Driving
When driving on the island, you must have the correct license and insurance for the vehicle you’re hiring, whether it be car, quad or motorbike, and drivers must be aged 18years or above. Provisional licenses are not valid. Greek road users drive on the right hand side of the road, seat belts must be worn at all times, and if you’re using a quad or motorbike you must wear a helmet at all times. Please click here for a full post that is already on our website setting out useful information that you should read before hiring and driving.
 
Festivals and holidays
Zakynthos celebrates many festivals and bank holidays throughout the year. It’s a great time to immerse yourself in the cultures and traditions of the island but try and be respectful of these important times of the year. Things may not operate as normal, and some roads may be closed, or opening hours may differ. Whilst it may be frustrating that everything closes on a Bank Holiday, it is a traditional of Zakynthos, so be respectful of the island traditions.
 
Language and gestures
Whilst other languages can be very difficult to learn, it’s polite to try and learn a few words or phrases when going abroad, rather than having the expectation that everyone will speak to you in English. Greeting a local with a simple Kalimera, or receiving your meal with Efcharisto, is much more respectful, and the locals will be grateful for your trying. We all know that some words, such as curse words, may seem like a bit of harmless fun, but calling someone the M word, will not be taken well. So whilst it may seem enjoyable to curse at someone in their own language, it may cause you a lot more trouble than it’s worth!
 
There are also some hand gestures that should be avoided, to prevent confusion or upset. Don’t put the palm of your hand in front of someone’s face. In Greece this is a rude gesture and will not be taken well!
 
Prices
When you go abroad prices always vary. Whilst you may find that some things are cheaper abroad, sometimes it can be the opposite. Zakynthos is an island where items have to be shipped in, which can make them to be more expensive. Please don’t get cross with the shop keeper because your favourite brand of suntan lotion is a higher price than back home. The shop keeper isn’t ripping you off, it’s because it costs a lot more to have the items imported to the island!
 
Receipts
If you buy anything whilst on holiday on Zakynthos, ensure that you get a receipt. This includes money spent on any purchased items such as accommodation, food, drink, shop purchases etc. If a tax-department worker stops you and asks you to show a receipt and you don’t have it, you may end up with a fine. You should also ensure that your receipt states the amount you actually paid and don’t let anyone give you an excuse for not providing a receipt, they are obliged to give you one by law! You should also be aware that pirated CD’s and DVD’s are illegal in Greece and you risk arrest if you buy them.
 
Siesta
As with several other European countries, Greece operate Siesta. Many shops will open around 9am, and then close again for siesta at 2pm. They will then open again around 6pm and operate until some point in the evening, some places will stay open until midnight. It may seem unusual, but if you’re out and about, you may have to fit your day around this schedule. Most beach/tourist resorts often remain open during these times, however.
 
Smoking
Smoking has been banned in Greece since 2010, in all indoor places, including Government buildings, the airport or hotels. This includes Zakynthos. Smoking in these locations risks a €500 fine. You’ll sometimes find people smoking in some public places, such as beaches and outdoor restaurants and bars. Whilst it can be unpleasant if you’re a non-smoker, you need to be aware that things in Greece are different and you may have to move away from a smoker if it’s causing you an issue, as they’re entitled to be smoking outdoors/unless the location falls into the aforementioned category.
 
Toilets
Okay, so we don’t like talking about certain things, but this one’s necessary. The infrastructure on Zakynthos is very different due to being an island. When visiting the bathroom don’t flush toilet paper, or any other paper or disposable items. Many Greek toilet systems (especially the islands) aren’t able to cope with it. Please put all paper and other disposable items it in the basket. Most bathrooms will remind you of it.
 
Trespassing
There are certain places in the world that people want to go to and explore. Sometimes however those places are off limits, either due to health and safety reasons or because the land is privately owned, or a government site. There are a few places like this on Zakynthos. Please, for your own health and wellbeing, don’t climb along the top of the cliffs at Navagio or sit with your legs dangling over the edge. Whilst it may give you a “perfect photo” it’s incredibly dangerous, not only to you, but to those who would have to deal with the situation if it went wrong. Please use the specially created viewpoint, that’s what it’s intended for.
 
The west of the island is one of the best spots for viewing the sunset. Some of this land however is restricted, so please don’t be upset if you’re unable to access it, there are other great viewing points up at Kambi, and just past Exo Hora. Whilst Laganas Bay is perfect for taking a boat out, the islet of Peluso is private as is most of Marathonisi except for the beach.
 
Water
Whilst you can drink the tap water in Athens it’s advisable not to drink water from the taps on Zakynthos. The mineral content can g9ive you an upset stomach. Bottled water is available everywhere, so you’ll never be far from a much needed drink especially during the hot summer months!
 
Weapons
Pepper spray, knives (cm blade or more), and knuckleduster are not allowed in Greece and guns are only allowed for hunting purposes with a special license. Carrying them are not allowed.
 
Whatever you do in Zakynthos this summer, we hope you all have a great time. Enjoy the sun, the food and good company, and we hope that you go home with some wonderful lasting memories.