Amenities

Banks

We have one bank in Alonissos – the National Bank of Greece. There is an ATM attached to this bank. It is easy to open a bank account here and needs only the production of passport and a small deposit. The current account pays a small interest and it is possible to have debit and credit cards attached to the account.

Bills and taxes

There are no annual taxes like the Council Tax on Alonissos. Water and electricity is on meter. Both are much cheaper than the UK. Electricity and telephone bills can be paid by direct debit. Water rates must be paid at the local Council offices at present.

Chandlers/Boat Yards

We have a very good chandler on the island and he also sells anything related to the water. There is a boat yard where boats can be stored over winter, serviced and maintained.

Dentists

We have two dentists. Both are very good and are recommended.

Doctors

There are three doctors on the island. If you are a UK national, health care is free. Medicines and prescriptions do need to be paid for, but they are cheaper than in the UK. In an emergency, a hydrofoil or helicopter would take you to the mainland to hospital.

Exchange

All the tourist offices exchange money as do several of the hotels. The bank exchange is usually slightly better as there is a lower commission.

Post

Our post office is open five days a week. Post is delivered in the Patitiri and Votsi areas only. Most people do not have an address as we know it in England. Mail is left in the Poste Restante for you to collect. It is also possible to rent a numbered box in which your mail is deposited and to which you have a key.

Schools

Alonissos has a primary and a secondary school. Both accept non-Greek national children. We also have a kindergarten for pre-school children. In the season there is a crèche where children can be left if their parents are working.

Sewerage

Every property on Alonissos has its own septic tank which biodegrades waste and should never need emptying. This keeps the seas around the island crystal clear.

Water

The water is safe to drink. It may be better to drink bottled water during the summer months, though, as the water may have been stored.