A cold wind from Kalamata.

Today is the 29^th of May. In just over 3 weeks it will be the longest day and then we will be on the way to winter again. Where is summer??? Although it turned warm a couple of weeks ago, so far we have not had any really hot days. If you have ever been on holiday to Greece, you will know the feeling of the wall of heat that hits you as you step out of the plane. This year I think the best day could have rated as a warm day in Eastbourne.

Last week I sat for a while late in the morning on a balcony in the shade reading. There was a slight wind blowing down the coast from Kalamata direction and after half an hour I started to feel really cold just sitting in a T-shirt and shorts. I put on a fleece to warm up and even after the sun came round I still needed to keep it on.

Every evening when the sun goes down almost everyone is still putting on something warm as the evenings are chilly. It’s either being wrapped up to sit outside or, sit indoors where it’s warmer.

Global warming? I don’t think that’s the right term for what’s happening at all. “Global climate change” should be the phrase that we should all get used to. Everywhere seems experience weather patterns that are different from normal.

What does it mean for the tourist industry in this area? I understand that some of the holiday companies have not renewed their accommodation contracts in the area this year, but are still showing that accommodation in their brochures. On booking, people will be disappointed when they arrive to find they are staying elsewhere. The overall number of flights into Kalamata from England has been reduced. Cool weather together with thunderstorms for the last week. Unless you are a dedicated “Greece lover” I think the disappointment might mean that you would think twice about returning.

It's definitely a cold wind blowing!!