one foot on the mountain

Happy New Year

So here we are at the start of 2016, wondering what the year will hold for Greece and our little corner of West Mani.

Last year was a challenging one for Greece and it was constantly in the news. The economy was a roller coaster, and despite the media hype about how this would impact on tourists, visitors to the area could holiday unaffected. Nobody had trouble getting money out of the banks, there were no fuel and food shortages and the Greeks were as warm and welcoming as ever. That said, our friends and neighbours are struggling on much reduced incomes and pensions. The most important way people can help the Greek economy is by coming here to spend your holiday euros in the local tavernas.

The tragic unfolding of the refugee crisis has been an extra burden for Greece. This has not been visible in this western part of the country, but we have seen concerted efforts by GAIA and others to fund raise to support people on the islands.

Now, we are looking forward to getting back to Exochori and reclaiming the garden from its winter wildness and start to feel the sun warm our northern European bones. 

NEWS

Two local events have grown into annual highlights:

March 26th-27th Taygetos Challenge, mountain marathon

May 14th-21st Kardamili Jazz Festival

Caroline is continuing to be the local guide for Walking Women holidays, now coming for their third year. She is also still doing independent guiding for individuals and groups.

A new local business Dive Code based in Stoupa has been really suucessful in its first year. It offers a range of courses from a basic "dive experience" to a full PADI course.

Meanwhile in Exochori with the re-opening of Kafeneon Pefko we now have three good eating and drinking venues.

We look forward to welcoming new and returning guests in 2016.

Best Wishes

Caroline and Kristine