Today Greece faces a decision that could, could have very serious repercussions for the future of the EU, the Euro and ultimately the world recession. As I understand it, the rioting and violence in Athens is in protest against further government austere measures which are, at the simplest level, involve the privatizing of a slue of state industries and a hike in taxes. Understandably the Greeks are upset. I'm sure we would be, too. However, if their bigwigs in charge don't do something to try and dam the breaches then the International Monetary Fund won't offer £10 billion in loans. Without the money Greece may default on their present loans and the country could face bankruptcy and, realistically, may face having to leave the Euro and return to the Drachma. Not a great situation to be in, for anyone.
Photograph: Yannis Behrakis/Reuters in the Guardian
So as far as the trip is concerned what was in the original journey a wonderful goal and prize, especially after Tito's Yugoslavia, is now, in 2011, looking like a potential hurdle. Fifty years ago my parents bought their lunch with Drachma at the way things are going i may well be doing the same. There is very likely to be strikes if the bills go through, possibly even continued riots, an escalation in the violence or even, as the economist on the BBC this morning offered, a civil war. And surely no one wants that.
Photograph: Vladimir Rys/Getty Images from the Guardian
On a purely selfish level, it's hard enough trying to work out how to get around Syria to Jordan, for the sake of the Greek people and the trip I hope I don't have to find myself another alternate route, this time around Greece.
Have a good week folks
Cheers Matt
