Can I get by speaking English?

Yes. In contrast to bella Italia where Italian rules, in Greece many many people speak English, especially those connected to the travel and tourism market. In small villages you will encounter less English spoken, but usually someone is around who knows enough English to assist you. In previous decades Greeks emigrated in droves to English-speaking countries—America, England, Australia and South Africa—and that is one reason English is so pervasive in Greece. By the way, if you are able to manage just a few Greek phrases, you will completely endear yourself to the locals.  See our Greek Language section for starters.