Visiting Athens

Hey guys so I'm an exchange student from America studying abroad in Europe right now and I've booked a trip to Athens with my friend in the upcoming weeks. I just had a few questions regarding safety as my mom is a little worried about the unrest going on down there.

From what I've heard the worst part is probably the strikes as public transportation can be completely shut down, and being a foreigner we will have no idea how else to get around, or maybe even miss a flight on the way back.

However I guess my mom wants to know if there's anything else I should be on the lookout for? I know Greeks are quite friendly to tourists but I've also heard the economic situation is getting quite bad so there's some trouble brewing? Sorry I must admit I'm not too clear on the situation at hand and I don't mean to offend anyone but that'd be cool if someone could let me know how it is to visit, especially since me and my friend are probably going to look very touristy.

Thanks guys!