LOCATION INFORMATION

The island of Rhodes has an extensive history dating back more than 3000 years. Before becoming a Greek island in 1947, Rhodes was occupied by Dorians, Romans, Turks and Italians. The island encompasses a rich history with many beautiful cultural objects and monuments still present.

Today, the city of Rhodes occupies the same northern island site that the ancient and medieval cities held. It has a cosmopolitan character, with many late 20th century buildings. The Old Town of Rhodes still exists and is inhabited by people who live and work in the same buildings in which the Knights of St. John lived.
The island of Rhodes has many interesting and noteworthy sites. These include: the Valley of the Butterflies, the village of Trianda near the site of ancient lalyssos (where a fifteenth century monastery and ruined temples of Athena and Zeus Poliea still stand), Kameiros and the ruins of the Dorian city, Kalithea and its thermal baths, and Lindos (with an ancient acropolis and the temple of Athena Lindia). Lastly, a trip to Rhodes would not be complete without visiting its great beaches, perfect for swimmers and water sport enthusiasts.

Weather/Climate
From June to September, Rhodes experiences daily highs of approximately 27C (81F) and lows of about 21C (70F). Rain is quite rare, with an average precipitation of 3mm each June.

Language
The official language in Greece is Modern Greek (Demotike). However, English, French, and some German are also spoken. Visitors to Greece should be able to get by with a basic understanding of any of these languages.

Time Zone
The time zone in Rhodes is ahead of Greenwich Mean Time by two hours. In the summer, Daylight savings time is observed.

Business and Banking Hours
Banks are generally open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. They are closed on Sundays and major Greek holidays.
Business Hours sometimes vary, but generally, most shops are open from 8 or 9 am to 8 or 9 pm. Outside of the main tourist areas, stores may close for a few hours in the afternoon, and usually re-open at 5 pm. Shops in the “Old Town” of Rhodes are usually open for business until 10:30 pm. Many stores are closed on Sundays.

Monetary Issues
Greece’s official currency is the Euro. When exchanging cash or traveler’s cheques, take your passport with you to one of the numerous banks found in Rhodes, (most of the banks have branches in the city as well as in the island’s larger villages). Most banks exchange currency at the daily rate set by the government. This rate is usually more favorable than rates offered at unofficial exchange bureaus (including post offices, travel agents, hotels, tourist offices, and car rental companies). You may also use your credit and debit cards to draw cash from the many ATMs located throughout the island.
Tips are voluntary and should not be confused with service charges, VAT and local taxes, which are included in prices. They are never expected, but 5-10% will show that service has been to your satisfaction.

Shopping
Even though most of the goods that Rhodes offers can be found throughout Greece, there are some island specialties. Olive oil is considered a local art in Rhodes, and the wine from this region has an excellent reputation. Rhodes also produces a rare form of honey, and is famous for handmade carpets, ceramics, lace, and embroidery.
The Old Town of Rhodes is of special interest to shoppers who can browse the many shops and often find classic and contemporary gold and silver jewelry, as well as carpets, pottery, and artwork.

Public Transportation
A public bus network covers the entire island of Rhodes, and the vehicles are usually in good condition. You will find the main terminal on Eleftherias Square, in front of the New Market by Mandraki harbour. This terminal in Rhodes Town provides buses to all outlying villages and resorts. If you do not wish to take a bus, taxis are easily obtained anywhere in the city.

Rhodes Tourist Information
More information about Rhodes and the Dodecanese Islands can be found on the following websites:
http://www.helios.gr/rhodes/
http://www.in2greece.com/english/places/summer/islands/rhodes.htm

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