Greek Beaches
Wheels

Naxos, wheels meet again.

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The best way to explore an island, for cool and cost is the ubiquitous scooter. No silly Harleys here [Just kidding. Actually I want one, I'm just jealous]. But beware a couple of things:

a] most of the time you will need a motorcycle licence to rent one, even if it's only 49cc, unlike the rest of Europe [tho' shops don't understand non-British licences very well, so some nationalities [USA? Canada?] get away with claiming a full licence means bike too], and you may be obliged to wear a helmet.
Clearly Greece is tired of caring for brain damaged foreign loonies and can see the value of a little protection, even if the law only applies to visitors to the islands, not locals.

b] if you manage to get a scooter and are not well aquainted with two wheeled transport, be very careful on dirt roads or tarmac roads with gravel scattered on corners. Gravel rash can really put a damper on a beach holiday, not to mention permanent vegetitive condition may reduce your enjoyment of life generally.

When you go scooter or motorcycle hunting do check all rental shops in the area before making a choice. Inevitably the shops nearest to most tourists will charge silly rates, which don't matter so much over a day but really add up over a week or two.

Before you drive away check brakes and lights. Due to off-road driving light bulbs fail frequently and if you find yourself heading home on 20kms of unlit road after a few sunset drinks, and bingo! no lights, what are you gonna do? Wait for the full moon?

All Greek Photos © Julian Loader