The negative reporting of Greece

In recent weeks the press seems to have increased the number of negative reports about Greece, whether it be in relation to Grexit and its possible implications, the influx of mediterranean migrants 'making holidaymakers lives a misery' on various islands or just generally doing the country down.

I'm all for freedom of speech and freedom of press, the press do highlight some important stories to the world, but news stories should never be written to the detriment of a nation and her people. I feel so strongly about this that I had to write this post. Many of the recent articles have been overly sensationalist, and have upset a lot of people who love Greece and her people.

I have many friends living in Greece as well as some family, and many will agree that recently things for Greece haven't been easy, and that in some respects things should, and could, have been handled much better by previous Governments. But I'm not here to talk politics. I'm here to talk about people.

Greece is full of wonderful people, the culture is truly fantastic, the food is to die for, and wherever you go you will always be welcomed with open arms and given the best possible hospitality. So why have the press been reporting recently that Greece should be avoided, that ATM's have, or are, running dry and that tourists could be at risk, that basic medical is unavailable, that islands should be avoided as they are like detention centres due to the number of mediterranean migrants on their shores? 

Yes, the Greek people, along with the rest of Europe, are waiting with bated breath to see what happens in the next few months. It is true that Greek people have been struggling terribly in the last few years and many have lost their jobs and had to scrabble around for wages and some medicines, but nothing has changed in regards to the beauty of Greece or the expectation of visitors. 

Greece as a nation is still very much open for business. The shops, hotels, and restaurants are still operating as normal and from what I hear tourists are still flocking there in droves and having a wonderful time, many stating that they will definitely go back to Greece again. The ATM's have not run dry, there is basic medical care if required, and yes, some islands have taken in some mediterranean migrants escaping war torn nations, but it's not affecting visiting tourists or their holidays.

So please next time anyone mentions Greece to you, tell them it's wonderful country where tourists are very welcome and where they will have a fantastic holiday. Tell them that Greece is a magical country rich with history and culture that will leave them wanting for more. Tell them that the beaches and scenery is some of the best they will see in the world. Most importantly tell them that the worst that will happen if they go to Greece is that she will creep in to their hearts, never let them go making them fall in love with a country that will make them want to return again and again. 

Go to the following links to learn more about visiting Greece:

Visit Greece

Rough Guides

Lonely Planet

Time out - Greek Islands