Taxes on goods purchased can be claimed back - most don't bother. Not a lot of money involved but hey it is there to be claimed.
Europe has the "Retail Export Scheme' which entitles overseas visitors exporting goods from the European Community to claim back their Goods Services Tax (Value Added Tax). The process is that you must produce the goods purchased when you leave the European Community zone.
Well I presented my claim and receipts for the European taxes I paid which is levied at the rate of 20% in UK and different rates elsewhere. The Greek Customs officer, I presented the papers to, looked at the documents and waved me away and said it was a Police matter?????
Several minutes earlier I had a lengthy conversation with a Police Sergeant so I went back to him. He understood the process of claiming back the tax and confirmed that it was a matter for customs so I went back into the queue and waited my turn for a second time. I got the same Customs official who waved me away again somewhat more abruptly this time.
Once again it is not a lot of money but Australians don't take kindly to being ripped off.
So back to my friend, the Police Sergeant, who took my paperwork and went to some place unknown before returning with someone who appeared to be the boss cocky. Few words in the ears of the Customs officials and the process of reclaiming European taxes all of a sudden became very clear to all.
Funny how the service performance improves after your arse has been kicked.
So for an hours perseverance I am $162.00 better off. Budget Hotel rooms in Turkey are about $20 per night so that got the next week sorted.
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