Essential things to pack:
Water shoes (for more comfortable entry into the sea).
Light clothes for warm weather. Swimsuit. Sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher), sunglasses and hats. Mosquito spray.
Medications, sanitary pads/tampons (there is no mini-market within walking distance).
Is there a mini-market nearby?
Unfortunately, there is no mini-market within walking distance. Please pack essentials such as medications, sanitary pads etc. There is, however, a kiosk nearby that sells bottled water, sodas, magazines, gum, etc.
Can we use U.S. credit cards in restaurants and shops?
Yes. Most places bring the POS device to your table (and do not take your card away from you). U.S. credit cards may require an actual signature.
Check with your U.S. bank to make sure there are no international transaction fees associated with your card. Sometimes there is a per-transaction surcharge and a 3% penalty applied, so make sure you’re carrying the right card. Capital One, Citi, Chase, etc., usually have cards with no international fees. Wells Fargo and Bank of America DO charge hefty fees.
Always choose € EUROS as the currency when paying (you’ll sometimes be offered the ability to pay in dollars, but this exchange rate grossly favors the merchant/local bank).
Should we also have some cash (Euros €) on hand?
It would be good to have a small amount of euros on hand. The best way to get euros (least amount of fees) is to withdraw money from a major bank ATM when you are in Greece. Best to do this in Athens or at the airport (there are ATMs located at the arrivals level after exiting the secure area).
Major Greek banks: Alpha Bank, Pireaus Bank, Eurobank, National bank. Avoid other networks as they may charge extra fees.
Is there a hairdresser?
Yes, Maria’s mom’s hairdresser will come from Athens. She will blow-dry/format guests’ hair in the morning, till ~1pm, and then focus on the bride, godmothers, grandmothers.
Is the wedding inside or outside?
Both ceremonies and reception will be outside.
The ceremonies will start close to sunset, to avoid heat from the sun but ensure daylight.
The reception will be by the hotel pool.
What will the reception food be?
Dinner will be buffet-style with a variety of meat and vegetarian dishes.
How will we go to church?
The ceremonies will be at a seaside chapel (St George), accessible by boat. The vessel is comfortable and allows for high heels and formal attire. The trip is short, across a protected bay. Sea is usually calm at sunset.
See pictures here: https://www.fostiniscruises.gr/el/el-barbayannis/
What are the wedding colors?
There isn’t a particular theme. Given the location of the church, white and blue will be the ambient colors. Eleni likes purple, so the baptismal sets will probably be of a similar color accent – however, the godmothers will make the final choice.
Renting a car?
If you’d like to rent a car and have a non-EU driving license, please make sure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP). In the United States, you can have your U.S. license translated into an IDP at any AAA location for a nominal fee.
Wedding gifts or registry?
No! Your presence in Greece is the gift!