The Hindu : International : Warning over Olympic rip-offs

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Wednesday, Aug 04, 2004

International

International

Warning over Olympic rip-offs

Athens: The Greek authorities are distributing price lists of commonly bought items, including kebabs and bottles of water, in an attempt to stop local businesses from ripping off visitors to the Olympic games. The leaflets, which come in a variety of languages, will be distributed at Athens airports and other entry points in the run-up to and during the August 13-29 games. The first Government-endorsed lists are expected to appear on Wednesday. Last week, Greece's Restaurant Association admitted that establishments had already doubled prices in popular tourist areas in Athens. ``Hundreds of inspectors will also visit restaurants and shops during the games to make sure prices are not being inflated,'' said Kleanthis Hatzinikolaidis, a spokesman at Greece's Development Ministry. ``This is a practice that brings shame to our country and has to stop.'' About 400 specially trained municipal police officers will also make inspection tours during the games. With more than half of the Olympics' 5.3 million available tickets still unsold, officials are desperate to attract visitors by assuring them that they will not fall victim to profiteers. ``We will make a special announcement when we unveil and explain the lists,'' said Andreas Banoutsos, an adviser to the Minister of Commerce.

— Guardian Newspapers Limited 2004

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Warning over Olympic rip-offs

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