Travel can be a challenge, but having the right gear can make all the difference between a trip that is too much trouble and a relaxing vacation enjoying the Greek islands or cheerfully exploring the mainland.
1. FlareSafe Three-in-One Personal Alarm, Smoke Detector, and Flashlight
Yes, this is a device for the paranoid, but vacations are supposed to be fun. If this increases your peace of mind, go for it. And I definitely recommend carrying a small flashlight with you while traveling. If there is a power outage, it can be essential. Of course you may not be foolish enough to make sure you have your own power outage, as I have on a couple of occasions.
2. Sony Mavica Digital Cameras
When it comes to convenience and good quality, the Sony Mavica line is terrific. No fussing with easy-to-lose memory devices - these cameras use small CDs - older models use floppies, easy to find everywhere and compatible with even the most archaically-equipped net cafe. Plus, you can fill a disk per city or region and have room to make notes on the label or using a CD marker.3. Magellan Personal Navigation System with GPS
Okay, so maybe not every traveler really needs a Global Positioning System to get from downtown Athens to Cape Sounion -but if you're at all gadget inclined, you'll want one. Choose from a variety of models from Magellan, the top name in personal navigation systems.4. Nightfinder Travel Alarm Clock from Oregon Scientific
Don't toss and turn wondering if the front desk will really give you your wake up call - you'll never be left behind with this handy, stylish blue-lit travel alarm clock. There's an easy to use snooze function for the procrastinators among us.5. Map Measurer
The wiggly roads of Greece can make it nearly impossible to estimate mileage and time from a map. This doodad makes it easier - set the scale of the map then trace your route. It automatically calculates the true mileage. Estimating delays due to goats blocking the high mountain roads? That you'll have to do yourself.6. Modular Telephone Adaptor
While not every hotel phone you encounter in Greece will work with this device, when you find one that does, the convenience is terrific. It allows you to plug in a modem and still leave the phone working.