Useful Notes

Useful Notes

What your organiser wants you to know

Both sides of the Phaistos Disc, Bronze Age clay disc with undeciphered spiral inscription, found at Phaistos, Crete

A few things that are worth knowing before they become problems.

  1. Routing from the US

    If you are travelling from the United States, fly to a major European hub first and connect directly to Heraklion; there is no need to route through Athens. Paris is the strongest hub for this connection, with many direct flights to Heraklion in September.

    One important detail: Paris has two separate airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY). They are served by different airlines and are not easily interchangeable on the day. Check both when planning your connection, and if your itinerary requires a transfer between them, allow ample time. Most other major European capitals also have direct September connections to Heraklion.

  2. Payment from the US

    If you are sending your tuition payment from a US bank account, use the Eurobank bank details, not the Revolut details. US banks do not reliably process international transfers to Revolut, and a transfer that fails or is returned costs you time, fees, and frustration. The Eurobank details are sent by email to accepted applicants.

    All payments must be made in euros. The full tuition amount must be received by Gaea Aeria; any transaction fees or exchange costs are the sender's responsibility.

  3. Timing Your Bank Transfer

    Transfer Monday to Friday. Many currency services apply less favourable exchange rates over the weekend, sometimes 3 to 4 percent worse than weekday rates. On a seminar tuition payment, that difference is real money. There is no urgency that requires a weekend transfer.

  4. Cash in Greece

    Greece is a largely cash-friendly society. You will want euros in cash for taxis, tavernas, markets, and tips.

    If you are coming from the US, there is no need to obtain euros before you leave home. Bring US dollars and exchange them in Heraklion. Do not use the currency exchange desk at the airport; the rates are poor. Instead, use the Eurobank or Piraeus Bank ATMs just outside the arrivals exit at Heraklion Airport (both operate 24 hours) if you need cash immediately on arrival. For better rates, use the currency exchange offices in the city centre; they are widely available and offer competitive market rates.

    Note that US bank cards work at Greek ATMs, but US banks often impose low daily international withdrawal limits. Plan accordingly.

  5. Accommodation

    Book your accommodation now with a free cancellation option, while your application is under review. September is a popular month in Heraklion and prices rise as the date approaches. Booking now at a free-cancellation rate secures a good price and costs you nothing; cancel if needed, keep the room if your application is accepted.

    A limited block of rooms is being held at a group rate at both seminar venues. Details are communicated by email to accepted applicants.