Thanks for letting us know about the strike affecting Ikea.

I now wish I had written here what I said at the time to my Greek friend. I could have been a smart arse — as I did believe a crash was imminent. When I heard the long term loans banks were giving on motor cars to people on very modest incomes, it felt all wrong. As you say, had no idea the amount of leverage. Sofia now has its own Ikea http://banskoblog.com/2011/09/ikea-sofia-home-fur….

For Thessaloniki go to transfer section and look for axeman. You will find it easier and not a lot more expensive to be driven and helped. But there may be others I am not aware of: anyone know?

There are many hire sites — but I have not had a report back from anyone who can recommend a specific van hire company. Be aware that some hire places specifically exclude insurance for Bulgaria. So check this out before arriving. If you are driving on Bulgarian motorways (like certain stretches of E79) you will need to buy a ticket — or risk a fine from the KAT (Police).

Overall flying to Thessaloniki makes a lot of sense and, as I love Greece, and the superior food there (in general) then its perfect for not just IKEA but for a two country holiday. For those flying into Sofia, I recommend AIKO for furniture and kitchens. Its full of Bulgarian buying — which is always a good sign.

Thank for your comments. My guess at the explanation of Greece’s price rises was actually from a Thessaloniki friend I was with a year ago… but I suspect we agree on this point as you say the standard of living has improved with EU money. Standard of living increases often lead to price rises – for good old supply and demand reasons.

But having visited the city twice now, I totally agree that it really is a fabulous place to spend your days and nights.

Yes I omitted the name of the huge shopping mall, Cosmos – so thanks for that. It was a real pleasure in there.

I am trying to remember the amazing location of the all day restaurant in a warehouse building on the old docks. There I enjoyed the best Greek salad I have ever had. Just took it to a whole new level. Will check out Yamas next time.

More tips would be welcome, and thanks again Mike,

Lance

Thats not true!

We ‘ve been at EU for almost 30 years,yes we had some subsidies from EU but we used this money for real improvment of our standard of living

Ok lets go back to the topic!
A visit to thessaloniki is a must,especially downtown!Really great nightlife,with numerous choices from big club venues to small traditional bars with live music.One of the best restaurant is ”yamas” with an breath taking view to aegean sea and white tower

You can also visit the famous byzantine museum and other museums and galleries as well as the white tower,the biggest landmark of thessaloniki.Very close to ikea you can find NOESIS ,thessaloniki’s science museum!

Near ikea is the mediterranean cosmos,the second biggest greek mall.You can find all uk clothing brands plus famous European brands like Zara and Pull and Bear.Of course you can also buy all the latest electronic gadgets and cool stuff like tvs etc

I hope you find this comment useful

Mike from thessaloniki

the “beer index” can become a bit obsessive, amongst drinkers and there’s no doubt when it’s really affordable then it does somehow add to the fun.