The birthplace of European civilisation as we know it, Ancient Greece gave the world more than most would care to imagine – drama, democracy, mythology and artistic and philosophical ideas that shaped the world today. Modern Greece may not have as much influence over the world as its ancestors, but with over 100 inhabited islands and more history than you could wave a particularly sizable stick at it certainly isn’t a country to be overlooked by tourists or budding investors. Beautiful mountains, vast pine forests, arid bleached-stone landscapes – all of these natural beauties lay hand-in-hand with the historical delights that Greece offers, and with a history that spans four millennia behind it there should be enough to cover more than a few months of exploration.

From the numerous museums and the monastic complexes to the ancient sites stretching from the Neolithic, through the Bronze Age and to the Byzantine times (with many stops between) – the many cultural influences on Greece are more than apparent and help to provide an interesting and exciting country filled with both natural and historical splendour. In a more modern sense, Greece is a popular holiday destination for all ages of tourist – it shouldn’t be expected that a visit will end up as a long drawn-out history lesson, with islands like Myknos and Paros keeping alive the spirit of Dionysus, the god of revelry.

Neither should it be expected that a visit to any number of the islands will result in sleepless nights from excessive House music, with any number of regions offering quiet getaways. A slow ‘Westernisation’ of the more touristy parts of the country is admittedly setting in, but for a destination as popular as Greece it is surprising how authentic the experience can still be.

Greece has a reciprocal health agreement with the UK, meaning British citizens receive free medical treatment during their stay. However, this agreement is poorly implemented in Greece, and as a result it is highly recommended that full health insurance is taken out by visitors. Healthcare is adequate in major cities, but hospitals can be very busy. Facilities in rural areas are generally poorer, though a lot of regions have access to air ambulances.

Mobile coverage is very good in urban areas, though it cannot be relied on in more rural ones. Landlines are widespread and English speakers are common.

Normal banking hours are from 0830 to 1430 Monday to Thursday and 0800 to 1400 on Fridays, though banks in large cities and major tourist areas tend to open for longer so bureau de changes are available. Shopping hours are by no means standardised, and vary depending on region, time of year and type of shop, but generally opening times are from 0800 to 1430 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, and 0800 to 1400 then 1730 to 2030 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Most resort shops open longer hours.

Formal suits are expected in business meetings, which are usually conducted in Greek, English, French or German.

Service charges are not normally included in bills, and a 12 to 15 percent tip is customary in most situations.

It should also be noted that throwing the head back is a negative gesture.