Kalamata Blogs » Messinia and The Mani » Όλα τα μπλογκ της Καλαμάτας και του νομού Μεσσηνίας με μια ματιά

skip to content Kalamata Blogs » Messinia and The Mani
Όλα τα blogs της Καλαμάτας και του νομού Μεσσηνίας με μια ματιά Home Search	Πληροφορίες Πληροφορίες για το site Καταχωρήστε το blog σας Συχνές ερωτήσεις (FAQ) Blogging για αρχάριους		Pass Free Internet με Extra! ΝΕΟΣ αριθμός: 899 300 300 300 Username: pass Password: free Δωρεάν Μουσική, SMS, WebVoice κ.α.

Feeds

29127 άρθρα από 66 πηγές

Aa - Zz

A Computer Programming Blog (11)
Ampelofyto (45)
Badminton (5)
Big Mama (105)
Blogo_Stories (25)
Epikourios (49)
Filiatra-Net Blog (802)
I can see through your true colours
IaTriDis (158)
ITHOMI NEWS (681)
KAAA (5)
Kalamata-sports (736)
Kopanakinews's Weblog (1694)
Kosmima-vangel (17)
kosmosnews (3282)
Kyparissia Online (174)
Living4TheSun (3)
Messinia and The Mani (87)
Messinian Farm (63)
Nespa-theories (18)
Radar (45)
Radio Kyparissia 93,6 FM (1190)
Selinios Katroutsos (200)
Sofias Homepage (36)
The Chaos (5)
TrifyliaNews Τα νέα της Τριφυλίας (1613)

Αα - Ωω

Άσχετα Μαζέματα (19)
Α.Π.Σ. Εράνη Φιλιατρών (158)
Αγροτικός Σύλλογος Γαργαλιάνων Μεσσηνίας (34)
Αγροτικός Σύλλογος Φιλιατρών (40)
Βρε ούστ από 'δω (116)
Βάλτα Τριφυλίας (1028)
Βλαχόπουλο Μεσσηνίας (65)
Γραμματεία Μεσσηνίας του Π.Α.ΜΕ. (39)
Δυτική Μεσσηνία Blog (785)
Επι-δεξιος (ψάλτης) (1284)
Εφημερίδα Σημαία (822)
Εν καλάμαις (4)
Εντροπία και Ζωή (6)
Ζέλιγκ (13)
Κυπαρισσιώτης (544)
ΚΚΕ ΝΕ Μεσσηνίας (150)
Καιρός και κλίμα της Μεσσηνίας (10)
Καλαμάτα Μεσσηνίας (1850)
Κεφαλληνού Μεσσηνίας (1)
Μερόπη Μεσσηνίας (175)
Μικρός Ναύτιλος (116)
Νίκη Πλάτης (100)
Ορίζοντας (1)
Πυγμαλίων (5)
Πύργος Τριφυλίας (654)
Πύλος navarino (409)
Πύλος Κώστας (1259)
Παραθέσεις (9)
Πανδέκτης (17)
Περί τα φυσικά (10)
Περί Μαθηματικών και τοπικών της Μεσσήνης (169)
Πολιτιστικός Αντίλογος (47)
Σπιτάλι (137)
Συνδικάτο Υπαλλήλων Ιδιωτικού Τομέα Μεσσηνίας (1)
Σύλλογος του Απανταχού Κωνσταντιναίων (23)
Σιδηρόκαστρο Μεσσηνίας (25)
Τριφυλιακά Νέα (176)
ΤΑ ΣΠΟΡ ΤΟΥ ΝΟΤΟΥ (746)
Τα Νέα της Μεταμόρφωσης (204)
Φιλιατρά News (6830)

Expand/Collapse

Messinia and The Mani (87)

Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 31.08.2010
11:13
No Smoking Ban - AGAIN
» Messinia and The Mani

Well they do say third time lucky!!!

As from tomorrow 1st September 2010, no smoking will be allowed in any public enclosed space and both smoker and owner/manager of the enclosed public space will be fined! That is if they are reported/caught!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 20.08.2010
11:35
How To Shop Tax Free - Greece
» Messinia and The Mani

GLOBAL BLUE

Refund points in Greece

Athens International Airport
Iraklion International Airport Crete
Thessalonica International Airport

www.global-blue.comAuthor: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 19.08.2010
10:09
Open Season
» Messinia and The Mani

As from tomorrow 20th August the hunting season legally starts and will end 22 February!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
10:07
Big Decrease in Tourism
» Messinia and The Mani

It seems that the Hellenic Ministry of Economy is finally getting a bit worried due to the fact that the tourist season has not gone as was hoped.

Naturally the economic crisis on a world wide scale means that people are not taking holidays like they used to and probably staying closer to home or going to other countries which have more attractive prices and also alround better service.

The folding of 3 UK charter companies within the last month has not helped either.

Maybe it is time for Greece to understand that it needs to work harder at providing excellent service in order to retain customers!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
10:02
Messinia is Burning
» Messinia and The Mani

From Agio Floro, Desilla until Kyparissia -

Early yesterday morning the alarm was sounded when fire broke out in the area of Brisses, Trifilias

A fire broke out around midday yesterday in the area of Desilla and moved over to Arkadia side burning a lot of forest.

Today a 33-year old Bulgarian will come up in front of the D.A. charged with arson with intent; he has supposedly admitted to starting 16 fires within that last few days!

Above taken from the local newspaper Tharros dated 19/8/2010Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 06.08.2010
09:43
Renting Out Your Home
» Messinia and The Mani

A holiday rental is classed as either on a per day or per week basis (3 months + in same name is classed as short term lease). So if you are planning on advertising your second home in Greece as a holiday rental property you will need to ensure that you have applied for and received the necessary licence from the Hellenic Organisation of Tourism (E.O.T.) a long drawn out procedure with a check list of room sizes, furniture requirements, safety standards and a cost of around 5000 Euro. You will also have to ensure that you declare on your yearly Greek tax return that you are receiving income generate in Greece and pay what ever taxes are required in Greece.

If you are going to use a property management service then please ensure that they are a registered business and can issue you with the official receipts/invoices.

A short to long term rental is anything from 3 months + and you do not have to have any licence from the E.O.T. but you do need to fill in and sign a standard Greek lease (you can purchases these at any stationers) in triplicate. The owner of the property then goes to their local tax office and submits the lease, it is stamped and signed, one copy is retained by the tax office, the other copy goes to the tenant (who can then arrange to have the electricity bill put in to their name for the duration of the lease - who can apply for a telephone line to the property and will also submit a copy of the lease with their Greek tax return), the last copy remains with the landlord who will also issue receipts every month on receipt of the rent. All will be declared to the Greek tax office on a yearly basis.

If you are going to use an agent and a property management service then please ensure that the businesses are registered and can provide you with official invoices/receipts.

Note: That should your tenant, for whatever reason, terminate the lease earlier than stated in the lease, then the landlord will need to get a personal declaration signed by the tenant stating that the departure is (particular date) and for (particular reason), the personal declaration must be with authenicated signature of the tenant. This declaration is then submitted to the local tax office by the landlord to show that the property has been vacated. The landlord must then ensure that the electricity supply reverts to their name.

If you really do have lots of friends and family to stay when you are not staying in your holiday home and you are not advertising your home as a holiday home rental anywhere in the world, then you have no worries.

If you are planning on building a house which you will work as a holiday rental then ensure that your civil engineer (who have all the rules and regulations for EOT licencing) draw up the plans accordingly and while the property is being built, the licence can be applied for! Bearing in mind that the licence will be an additional cost on top of the building costs.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 17.07.2010
11:06
The Saga of Stench in Kalamata
» Messinia and The Mani

My best source is the 'better half' and there was a court hearing about the rubbish situation in Kalamata yesterday which went in the evening. It seems that EOK (EEC) has told all us 3rd worlders that there are no longer to be landfill rubbish dumps. Obviously this was knowledge sometime ago and the Mayor of Kalamata is still looking for a solution. How many years more does he need we wonder?

The rubbish dump has been opened for another 10 days with strike instruction that all 'juice' from the rubbish is to be squeezed out and deposited at the biological sewage depot and the rubbish then dumped. Yeah right!

The big question is what happens after 10 days? They haven't found a solution over the last x years and they are going to find the solution within the next 10 days?

Action is needed and a clever person came up with the solution - we all put our rubbish in our cars and dump it in front of the town hall. Mayor's problem!!!

We also need to make an enormous effort to reduce our garbage by recycling (or do they pack it up and dump it in 3rd world countries?) and also invest in compost bins - big and small.

Kalamata will become the garden state!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 16.07.2010
11:02
An Inexpensive Solution
» Messinia and The Mani

For all of those living outside Kalamata who want to visit the town on an evening for a meal or a performance and after a few glasses of wine or ouzo do not want to drive back to Mani or the 'otherside', there is a small hotel located near to the harbour which could be an inexpensive solution for those wishing to spend the night in Kalamata.

www.hotelnevada.grPhone 27210 81811Santaroza Street, near to the harbourAuthor: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
10:16
The Stench in Kalamata
» Messinia and The Mani

In the early 70s I was living in Tangier Morocco our house was located at the end of an alley in the Arab Quarters! All great fun but that is another story!

Why am I writing about Morocco you might ask? Well it is to do with rubbish and rubbish collection. In Morocco back then we all had our large tin cans (with lid and handle) which in the evening was either hung on our entrance door out in the alley, or as some of the Moroccan families in the alley did, all the rubbish was thrown out in the alley which made interesting walking back to house in the dark! Not that I did since I was hardly ever out after dark.

Around 5am you would hear the rubbish collectors in the alley gathering and sweeping, so when we emerged around 730 to walk to school the alley was clean.

The stench in Kalamata these days is absolutely disgusting and disgraceful! The rubbish is all over the place and with the time of year and the temperatures no one seems at all concerned about piling more rubbish on to the heaps.

My 'better half' (for want of a better word) told me that there was going to be a court decision sometime today and I did see a rubbish truck drive down my street but if they wanted to stop to gather the rubbish it was impossible since people have parked their cars in front of the piles of stinking garbage!

Kalamata was at one time considered one of the dirtiest towns in Greece, it did clean its act up but it seems that the image has reverted to one of dirt and stench just in time for the International Dance Festival and all the other visitors to our town as well as any strays who might wander over or escape from the confines of Costa Navarino!

Update note: 19/8/2010 - Rubbish dump has been opened until September!!!! Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
09:59
1st Kalamata Jazz Festival
» Messinia and The Mani

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
09:58
16th Kalamata Dance Festival
» Messinia and The Mani

16th Kalamata International Dance Festival
15 - 22 July 2010
15 July @ 22:00 and 16 July @ 22:00
Amphitheatre Kalamata Castle

CCN-BALLET DE LORRAINE

16 July @ 20:00 and 17 July @ 20:00
Kalamata Theatre (next to Court House)

FRESH! NEW CHOREOGRAPHERS
.Pelma.Lia Haraki
Zoe Dimitriou
La Macana

16 July @ 20:00 and 17 July @ 22:00
Polikladikou High School Gymnasium (Agia Triada)

TROUBLEYN/JAN FABRE

17 July @ 20:00 and 18 July @ 20:00
Junior High School Paralias (Kritis Street)

ASSOCIATION DAM-CESPI

18 July @ 22:00
Amphitheatre Kalamata Castle

LES BALLETS C DE LA B

18 July @ 20:00 and 19 July @ 22:00
Polikladikou High School Gymansium (Agia Triada)

NOEMA DANCE WORKS

19 July @ 20:00
National Stadium of Kalamata

LEMURIUS

21 July @ 22:00 and 22 July @ 22:00
Amphitheatre Kalamata Castle

THEATRE DE SURESNES JEAN VILAR

Programmes and tickets can be found at the Cultural Centre on Aristomenous Street. Open 10-1 and 630-9pm every day (closed Saturday afternoon and all day Sunday)

Ticket bookings (Credit Card)
Phone 27210 25190 and 27210 25434
Fax 27210 97426

Ticket Prices ranging from 10 - 20 Euro

A variety of workshops are being held between 14 and 22 July

www.kalamatadancefestival.gr and email: mail@kalamatadancefestival.grAuthor: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 13.05.2010
18:44
General Strike
» Messinia and The Mani

Tharros 13 May 2010

Back page advises that the next 24-hour strike is planned for 20 May 2010Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
18:43
Closure of Rubbish Dumps
» Messinia and The Mani

The local newspapers stated some days ago that all rubbish dumps within Messinia will close at the beginning of June - I gasped with horror!

These last couple of days within the centre of Kalamata (around the 23rd March Square) work is being carried out to create large underground rubbish bins, like the ones near to the main square on Aristomenous street which is a great help I think.

Also during a week long street exhibition about recycling which was held some weeks ago I picked up details of a shop in Kalamata which has all kind of compost systems and educates everyone in to the usage of EM. I wont even try to translate the bumph on this but I found it extremely interesting and will visit the shop soon to purchase my twin tubs for making compost (for apartments)

NaturAM

Vyronos and Sokratous 27 - 241 00 Kalamata
Phone 27210 86029
Fax 27210 86140
Mobile 6972 929124

www.naturam.gr

Email: info(at)naturam.gr

Aggelos Dimopoulos - is the ownerAuthor: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
18:37
A9 - Olympia Highway
» Messinia and The Mani

The new motorway will create a more direct and safer route between the towns of Elefsina and Tsakona and will help to improve the overall mobility in the South-Western part of Greece, primarily helping to reduce time travel, making it easier to do business in the region of Peloponnesse as well as holidaying and touring!

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 12.05.2010
09:22
12th May - Pharmacy Strike
» Messinia and The Mani

A 24-hour strike of all pharmacies in Messinia!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
09:21
Kalamata and Gialova... Bird's Eye View
» Messinia and The Mani

An inovating research progamme conducted by the team of the Xarakopeiou University of Athens and funded by the Latsi Foundation has compiled an atlas of aerial views of Greece including Kalamata and Gialova.

Title: Greekscapes - Aerial Atlas of Greece.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
09:19
Aegean - Flight Kalamata to Athens to Kalamata
» Messinia and The Mani

On the 17th May 2010 the inaugeration of the Aegean flight Athens-Kalamata.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 04.05.2010
20:03
Old Kardamili
» Messinia and The Mani

I am ashamed to say that early this morning it was the first time in my 17 years down in Messinia and the Mani that I actually took the time to wander up through the village to the area of Old Kardamili.

Beautiful!

The weather was glorious and then I wandered back down to have a delicious Freddo Cappuccino in Vangelis' cafe - ouzo messe on the square.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 03.05.2010
18:02
Car For Sale - Kalamata Messinia
» Messinia and The Mani

Citreon Berlinga (Red) - 2000 - 1.4cc - 158,000 klms

Recently serviced
MOT due in the fall
Crunched rear light casing
Mottled look paintwork
Missing side light and needs new tyres

SOLDAuthor: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 20.04.2010
13:15
Who is up to their tricks again?
» Messinia and The Mani

Mickey Mouse paperwork has reared its ugly head again.

Heard of two serious cases last year and seems that we are heading for a third this year, not to mention all the undiscovered cases!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 14.04.2010
16:48
Kennels
» Messinia and The Mani

I have to apologize to Helen and Phil for the great delay in posting this link.
For all dog owners - kennels!!!

www.messiniakennels-doghotel.com Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 06.04.2010
19:23
Economic Crisis - Greece - Messinia
» Messinia and The Mani

I have a headache, all the Easter break was spent with great discussions on the economic crisis in Greece and espcially here in Messinia. Every where I turned there was a conversation going on about how much self employment stamp was going up (nothing new since it goes up every two months anyways and we pay far more than our EEC counterparts); how much salaries had been cut (and we are talking about the grand sum of 1000 Euro a month if you were lucky now being cut back down to 800 Euro) and the increase in all utilities as well as petrol.

Similar conversations are surely going on within the rest of Europe, but to the Greek bonviveur and born arnachist, this is a BIG DEAL.

Mind you if you had taken a walk along the seafront of Kalamata or along the Marina you would have gasped! All the cafes and restaurants were absolutely heaving! Service was bad and waiting time for a simple meal was an hour or more and then more for them to remember to draw up the bill which was ridiculously high!

So here is to similar scenarios over the summer especially for the hotels, restaurants and cafes!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
19:14
Bazaar - Agios Andreas
» Messinia and The Mani

SUNDAY 11 APRIL 2010
Kassimiotis Hotel, Agios Andreas11am - 6pm
Food and drink will be available and the items up for sale will include:

Jewellery
Arts and Crafts
Antiques
Books, CDs and DVDs
Clothes (second hand)
Children’s Clothes
Children’s Toys
Plants and Herbs

There are still tables available, so if you would like to book one, please telephone697 337 9542Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 30.03.2010
18:05
Holy Week and Easter Sunday/Monday
» Messinia and The Mani

Easter time has arrived and you will have seen everyone spring cleaning and whitewashing frantically especially with the sunny spring like weather we have been having, and which will hopefully continue until well after we have roasted the lamb.

During Holy Week apart from the fasting, there are various church services on a daily basis and you will have to forgive my ignorance on what these services are and when, but I do know that on Friday evening at a certain time, all depends on the churches in your area, the Epitaph has been decorated with fresh spring flowers and will be paraded around the village/area/neighbourhood with followers.

On Saturday get yourself down to your local church around 1145 at night with your candle or lantern and wait for the distribution of The Light which has been flown in from the Holy Land - really!

Everyone wishes Chirstos Anestis and the response is Alithos Anesti translated to English is: Christ is Arisen, He Truely Is.

Everyone then takes their little bit of Holy Light home and mark the doorway of the main entrance with a cross (a black mark from the smoke of the candle flame), the candili is then freshly lit with the newly arrived Holy Light and the lady of the house will make sure that it does not go out until the new light in the following year! Everyone then breaks the fasting with breaking of the Easter Bread (similar to the Christmas Bread), the Easter soup (egg lemon entrails soup with lettuce and other green herbs) and cracking of the dyed red hard boiled eggs.

Sunday morning there is an early morning service (I have never been) which is supposed beautiful and then all come home to eat breakfast and then to commence the roasting of the lamb be that in the village oven or on the spit.

Alot of making merry, eating far too much, partaking of ouzo, tsipouro and wine, load music and Greek dancing! If you are invited to join in - DO.

Kali Anastisi kai Kalo PaschaAuthor: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
17:52
Corinth to Megalopoli - new road open
» Messinia and The Mani

You will all be pleased to hear that the new road from Corinth to Megalopoli is now open, as of yesterday, and those bends are now history if we want them to be.

We now await with baited breath for the final stretch from Megalopoli towards Kalamata!

Feedback on road and the time it takes welcome please!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 15.03.2010
11:17
St Patrick's Day
» Messinia and The Mani

There is a chance to also see the band in Megali Mantinea on the 20th March, will post details shortly!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 13.03.2010
10:57
Increase of Value Added Tax (FPA)
» Messinia and The Mani

Drastic changes in taxation are going to be put in to practice here in Greece; alot of people are very unhappy about this and a lot of businesses are going to go through difficulties adjusting especially within local communities.

The Value Added Tax is going to be increased by 2% and will probably, from what has been mentioned in the media, be implemented as from 15th March (although one would think it would be more logically to start it from 1st April).

So 9% goes to 11% and 19% goes to 21%, which will increase all our bills!

Start asking for receipts and making sure that you get them.

Also when pricing any work ensure that the professional includes the VAT (FPA) in the estimation/quote.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
10:52
Pay Parking - Aristomenos - Main Shopping Street of Kalamata
» Messinia and The Mani

This is just to advise you all that as from Monday 8th March 2010, the parking on the main shopping street of Aristomenos in Kalamata is now 'Pay Parking', you need to ensure that you have some parking cards in your car which you can purchase at various points in Kalamata (around the centre of town) mainly from the kiosks. These scratch cards need to be scratched out to show date and time and also be 'on show'.

You will be fined and the fine is payable at the town hall for Kalamata.

There are mainly very large signs up showing which are the pay parking zones; so no excuse for not knowing about it. Also it is written in English.

The zones for paid parking so far are the car parking areas of Kalamata near to market place but also lower down, the road of Nedontos, Sidorodromo (railstation street leading to square and around), Aristomenos.

The future areas which have been prepared for pay parking are:

The street of 23rd Martiou - where the English newspapers are (Papachristos)
The street leading up to Ipapanti (the large church below the castle of Kalamata)Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 25.02.2010
13:44
Could very easily read "Have you been conned by English-speaking people in Greece"?
» Messinia and The Mani

As far as property scams go I haven't heard anything like that going on within mainland Greece but I have no idea about the islands, but the fact that English people have been taken in by English-speakers and been 'misguided' does happen in Greece also. Have you been conned by English-speaking people in Spain?by mark on June 3, 2009 google_protectAndRun("ads_core.google_render_ad", google_handleError, google_render_ad); Where is your money now?While perhaps not the most politically correct headline for a thread this is a very interesting and informative post which many people who live in Spain or visit Spain on a regular basis will be able to relate to. Unfortunately, it appears as though many English-speaking con artists are still operating in Spain with victims aplenty!
Background to the thread
The thread has been started by a forum member who spent two years in Spain himself and managed to avoid the English-speaking con artists but he is concerned that his elderly parents are moving to Spain and may encounter such people. While no names are mentioned there are a number of scenarios described in the thread which too many people will be able to relate to!
While the thread specifically mentions English-speaking fraudsters and con artists it is worth mentioning that the common schemes used to trick people out of money are also commonplace among Spanish nationals and other people in the country. The problem with English-speaking con artists is the fact that English-speaking visitors and expats will automatically have a higher degree of trust when hearing an English accent and may well let their guard down.

Common frauds to look out for
There are many common scams and frauds which appear to happen on an everyday basis in Spain which include:-
Second hand car fraud
While this particular scam seems to be happening all around the world there have been many instances of “ringers” sold as second-hand cars in Spain. For those not aware of the term “ringer” this is where two cars, possibly cars which had been involved in an accident, are welded together to create a one “normal looking car”. Very often this will see the undamaged half of each car welded together and sold as a standard motor vehicle.
Aside from the fact this is illegal there are also obvious safety issues as many of these cars have been known to literally split in two under normal driving conditions with many passengers and drivers seriously injured or worse. If you’re buying a second-hand car you need to check for signs of welding and in many cases it may be sensible to take along an experienced mechanic or car expert.
Lazy gardeners
There was one particular post on the thread which details how an English-speaking gardener had been hired for four hours work but assuming the owner of the property was out in the afternoon proceeded to do two hours work and spend the remaining two hours in his car. However, in this particular instance the owner was still in the property and had been watching the gardener in his car for two hours. She then blew his cover when he attempted to charge for four hours work and eventually he left without payment.
Electrical repairs
This seems to be very common scam in Spain whereby electricians are called to fix satellite dishes, videos and other electronic equipment, charge exorbitant fees only for the client to find out the new equipment is faulty or the problem has not been resolved. In many cases the electricians will return to the property and pin the blame on your “faulty equipment” and then proceed to charge even more to fix the problem “again”.
google_protectAndRun("ads_core.google_render_ad", google_handleError, google_render_ad);Property scams
Timeshare apartments which do not exist, or are overvalued, new developments which are never finished and the like are property scams common in Spain. English-Speaking salespeople are often used to attract English-speaking tourists and expats into transactions which could leave them financially ruined or significantly out of pocket.
While the regulatory system has changed substantially over the last few years many people still seem to fall under the magic spell of these crooks and we hear terrible stories of retired people losing their savings and being left penniless.
The helpful stranger
Unfortunately many people who move to Spain for their new life they will come across the “helpful stranger” who will try to befriend them, help them and ultimately steal from them or worse. As we mentioned above, many English-speaking people who move to Spain are often more trusting toward other English-speaking people and have been known to let their guard down. These people are confidence crooks and will try to ingratiate themselves into your life, offer assistance and generally make a pest of themselves with ladies in particular a target of these con artists.
Solicitors and advisers
If you’re moving to Spain you are likely to need the services of a solicitor or professional adviser at some point. Unfortunately, with money often tight a number of expats have been known to go for the cheaper option which can ultimately cost them dearly. At the end of the day you get what you pay for and if you try to cut corners with regards to professional advisers and solicitors then you really are putting yourself in the lap of the gods.
One of the best ways to find a reputable professional adviser is by a referral from a friend or known acquaintance that you trust. However, if you are not in a position to have an adviser referred to you then you will need to do your own homework on the Internet and in the local press to see who has a good reputation.
Why are English-speaking con artists being singled out?
The reason why English-speaking fraudsters are being singled out in this particular post is the fact that instantly many English-speaking people will drop their guard and have a high trust level in people from their own country. This is how many of the fraudsters and con artists get your confidence, lead you up the garden path and then ultimately put their plans into action – whatever these may be.
Conclusion
Where possible, when you are looking for an electrician, a handyman, a second-hand car or a new property you should use people referred to you by friends and colleagues. If this is not possible then you will need to do your own homework using the Internet and local newspapers to find out who is trustworthy and who offers good value for money. Attempting to cut costs or going with the first person you see in the newspaper or on the Internet could prove very costly.
For those who also come across “unbeatable” investment opportunities you need to remember that the best investment ideas will not fall into your lap so if you come across a complete stranger promising you the earth then walk away as quickly as possible!
google_protectAndRun("ads_core.google_render_ad", google_handleError, google_render_ad);Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 13.02.2010
09:11
Greece - Economy
» Messinia and The Mani
'Timid' EU must not make us fight this battle alone, says Greek prime minister• Lack of united support blamed for creating a pyschology of imminent collapse
• Tentative response fails to impress markets as data shows eurozone stagnating
- Buzz up!
- Digg it
- Ian Traynor in Brussels, Julia Kollewe, and Helena Smith in Athens
- guardian.co.uk, Friday 12 February 2010 22.26 GMT
- Article history
Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Photograph: Pierre Verdy/AFP/Getty ImagesGeorge Papandreou, the Greek prime minister, today slammed the EU for displaying "timidity" in its dealings with the country as it grappled with its worst financial crisis in a decade.
In a live address to his cabinet following his return from yesterday's emergency summit in Brussels, the normally mild-mannered leader hit out at the lack of united support from the EU, saying the foot-dragging had exacerbated the load for debt-ridden Greece which has been hammered by markets in recent weeks.
"Greece is not a political or an economic superpower to fight this alone. The EU gave political support in the last few months of this crisis, but in the battle against impressions and the psychology of the market it was at the very least timid."
The union had, he said, been fragmented by multiple voices, differences and diverging statements. "There was speculation about our country which created a psychology of imminent collapse, prophesies which risked becoming self-fulfilling," he said. "There was a lack of co-ordination between various bodies of the union, the commission, the member states, the European Central Bank, even different opinions within those bodies."
EU leaders also failed to impress the financial markets with their tentative response to the Greek debt crisis and suffered another blow from fresh data today showing the eurozone economy stagnated in the last quarter.
With governments declining to put flesh on the bones of plans to rescue Greece from sovereign default, if need be, the markets again rounded on the euro, taking it to a nine-month low against the dollar at $1.3606 this morning.
Despite the market fever, however, leaders across the EU are quietly relaxed about the fall as they view the single currency as too strong. They are privately hoping for an adjustment against the dollar to boost European exports, not least in Germany, the world's champion exporter until recently overtaken by China.
Germany, the eurozone's key economy, defied expectations by posting no growth at all in the final three months of last year, meaning that the 16-country eurozone registered growth of only 0.1%, raising fears of a double dip recession.
Risking accusations of complacency, several of the eurozone's key leaders also see little threat to the currency's stability in the Greek drama, pointing out that Greece constitutes less than 3% of EU GDP. While Spain and Portugal, seen as other euro weak links, have severe problems, they are not confronting the kind of debt financing issues that the Greeks are struggling with. Spain and Portugual were not mentioned at Thursday's EU summit.
This analysis is feeding eurozone leaders' hopes that the Greek crisis can be contained, provided Papandreou seriously implements the outlined austerity package that is supposed to slash Greece's budget deficit by 4% alone this year.
For Greeks "the battle" had only just begun, Papandreou warned. "This battle isn't over," said the leader, hinting that austerity measures announced last week may be supplemented by further belt-tightening policies.
While the European Central Bank, the European Commission, and eurozone government leaders insist that Greece must meet the 4% target, privately they will settle for less provided the harsh therapy brings substantive returns.
Although the EU summit of 27 government chiefs on Thursday pledged "determined and coordinated action" to guarantee euro stability if need be, the compromise formula was hammered out at two smaller meetings of European leaders in advance of the summit which then rubber-stamped the deal.
The crisis management by small groups of key leaders, orchestrated by the new European council president, Herman van Rompuy, illustrated how such emergencies might be handled in the future in Europe, as there is a sense that summits of 27 leaders can be too unwieldy and indecisive.
Olli Rehn of Finland, the new European commissioner for economic and monetary affairs, said the EU needed to be bolder in monitoring member states' economic policies to avert a repeat of the crisis. "We urgently need deeper and bolder surveillance of economic policies," Rehn said.
But while European leaders wait, in the knowledge that Athens does not need to raise any funds on the markets until April at the earliest, the jury appeared still to be out on the European response.
"The EU's intentions are good, but the market would like details," said Kasper Kirkegaard at Danske bank.
Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 12.02.2010
11:24
Economics - Politics - Greece
» Messinia and The Mani

Talking PoliticsGreece reveals the flaw at the heart of the EU Thu Feb 11 12:14PM [http%3A%2F%2Fa323.yahoofs.com%2Fymg%2Ftalking_politics__1%2Ftalking_politics-319290732-1265890372.jpg%3FymEhYqCD386W2AFY?v=2"] /> Greece's economic woes remind us what Britain still has to be cheerful about.

By Ian Dunt

As Willem Dafoe says to Tobey Maguire in Spiderman: "Misery, misery, misery. That's what you've chosen."

And rarely has Britain been as miserable as this. Monday January 19th was officially the most depressing day of the year, with weather, debt, no more Christmas, failing new year's resolutions and low motivational levels taking hold. February is here now and things still feel pretty similar.

Politics is no different. An economic downturn, talk of a double-dip, expenses turning the mother of parliaments into an international byword for petty corruption, a seemingly endless war in Afghanistan, an inept government, an uninspiring opposition: Britain is not in a good mood.

But we can comfort ourselves with one thought: these are our issues. We are responsible for them, and we can wreak our vengeance on our elected representatives. That fact happens to be the cornerstone of democracy.

Now let's look at Greece. It has accumulated public debt of 300 billion euros, and a budget deficit of 13% of the national income. It cannot devalue its currency as Britain has been doing, because its currency does not relate to itself as a country. It cannot inflate the debt burden away, or try to attract investment. It is not just tied to a single interest rate through the euro, it is also tied to a common budgetary policy. Only now do we see quite how little sense that makes.

EU leaders meeting today in Brussels have three options. Bring in the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which would be deeply humiliating. Bail out the country, despite the fact this would break Maastricht rules. Or do nothing, which really isn't an option. They will almost certainly pick the second option, and attach conditions to it.

The IMF has done the same thing to developing countries for years, of course. Those conditions were usually highly destructive neo-liberal disgraces which ruined the poor and inflicted a vicious, unadulterated version of capitalism on countries which were in desperate need of a thriving public sector. But the conditions attached to an EU bailout are likely to prompt severe social disruption in Greece, whose citizens are proud and dignified enough to be irritated by other countries interfering in their affairs.

The Greeks are not the only ones affected. The taxpayers of other eurozone countries will have to pay out for something over which they had no control. German citizens - the main losers, in all probability - are well within their rights to be irritated.

This is not about economics. At heart, this is about a democratic deficiency. The only time someone suffers under a power, they should have some say in the formulation of that power. That's how democracy works - ostensibly, at least. We elect representatives and then live under the laws they pass.

MPs spent Tuesday night voting on whether to hold a referendum on adopting the alternative vote system. There's good reason to debate that: under first-past-the-post most of the country is entirely disenfranchised. I have always lived in a safe constituency. No vote I ever made in a general election had any effect on the political make-up of this country. I am, for all intents and purposes, disenfranchised. But whether we decide to adopt alternative vote or not (it will probably never make it to the statute book) we should surely not be moving in a less democratic direction, which is precisely what the European Union entails.

Britain's response to the changing world is twofold and problematic. On the one hand, it has devolved power to administrations and talked more and more across party lines about handing greater power to local authorities. On the other, it has increasingly signed up to the European project. In the middle, parliament has become weak and irrelevant.

It's a strange approach to take, but at least we're half right. Local democracy is the most ethical and philosophically coherent way of ensuring democratic accountability. Instead, much of our constitutional reform has concentrated on the Lisbon treaty. It's difficult to summon the appropriate level of despair at the UK government's joy when Brit Cathy Ashton was installed as foreign minister. Sit in a room with her and European president Herman Van Rompuy and you'd presume you were still alone. Their appointment showed Europe didn't want a role on the world stage, or else it would have opted for Tony Blair. It's possible it never wants that role, or perhaps the EU just wants to lie low for a few years while anger dies down over Lisbon and then intends to install someone more charismatic.

Even if the first option is the most likely, we have now created a post. This post which will sit there, barely used, until someone comes along one day, takes it up, and start the process of amassing more power, like a Latin American president calling referendums on extending the presidential term. Except I doubt there'll be a referendum. Europe has already revealed its indifference to popular wishes. Such a leader would have no more democratic legitimacy than Napoleon. He would be a ruler entirely detached from those he rules. The fact so many progressives - people with whom I usually feel considerable sympathy - consider this an acceptable state of affairs is beyond me. I can't think of anything more regressive.

Greece shows us the economic consequences of giving up on the concept of national sovereignty and the principle that power should be localised, as far as possible, to where it is felt.

Plainly, all countries are subject to extraneous forces. Britain is vulnerable to American foreign policy, which it follows like some crack-addicted monkey. The credit rating agencies wield a disgusting and entirely unjustified power over domestic policies here. This is an interdependent world, and countries are not islands. We are part of the whole. And yet, the obvious truth of that does not mean we give up on democratic accountability altogether. Parliament is held in low regard. But we can vote them out. We can punish the policy-makers. We are still, to some degree, responsible for our own affairs.

The budgetary crisis is a tragedy for Greece. They are our European cousins and we should offer help and national sympathy, not for their foolish government, but for their people. It is also an instructive lesson in the things Britain still has to be cheerful about.

"Misery, misery, misery. That's what you've chosen." But at least we chose it. And we can still un-choose it.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 09.02.2010
10:27
Clean Monday - Kathera Deftera
» Messinia and The Mani

15 February - early this year - National Holiday - Clean Monday and the commencement of Lent.

Also Kite Flying Day!

Tables will be laden with all the lenten food, olives, squid, Greek style pickled onions and pickles in general, taramasalata, octopus, rice and pasta with squid, shrimp and octopus and the lenten bread which is ridiculously expensive but delicious!

Halva for dessert!

and all washed down with lashings of good wine!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
10:23
Carnival - Mardi Gras - Ipokries
» Messinia and The Mani

This Friday will be the day that all the school children will go to school in fancy dress armed with serpentinas, confetti and colour spray (neither of those two are allowed in school but hey...)
The weekend will be full of various fancy dress parties and balls going on and carnival parades. Messini holds one and then the large one in Patra (famous) and in Mochato, Athens (also famous).
So, all of you, put on a funny face and go out and party!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
10:16
Strikes
» Messinia and The Mani

10 February 2010 - PanHellenic Strike and I heard this morning that means no flights!

they are also talking about 24 or 26 February as general strike also???

It is only to be expected that the strikes will start with a vengance when all the new tax rules and regulations are being debated and voted on this month and we should have the new rules and regulations made public before the end of the month.

A good idea for everyone to have a folder and collect receipts for 2010/11 tax declaration, it is easy to throw away bits of paper than it is to find receipts to cover expenses.

It is a good idea in March 2010 to contact your Greek accountant and discuss the new tax rules and how they affect you.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 04.02.2010
09:01
Tsiknopempti
» Messinia and The Mani

Today is Tsiknopempti - Fat Thursday - Burnt Thursday a day of eating grilled meat and making merry!

Forget "Fat Tuesday" but enjoy "Burnt Thursday"

"Burnt Thursday" or Tsiknopempti is celebrated eleven days before the start of Lent. The "Burnt" part refers to the grilling of meats, a big part of the celebration of this day. The weekend following "Burnt Thursday" will also have parties and other events; technically, that Sunday is the last allowable day for eating meat and is sometimes called "Meat-eating Sunday". The best Greek restaurants will be crowded on this day - but seafood places are a safe bet to have tables available!

Personally I advise not to go out on this day to a taverna unless you are not extremely hungry and have alot of patience.

In the 29 years that I have been in Greece I went out to eat once with friends on Tsiknopempti and swore never to eat out again on that day, and I don't.

A nice gathering of friends either for a street party of grilling and wine tasting or home with family and friends and the BBQ going or over the open fireplace - now that is fun!

And just so that you know Mardi Gras dates for this year
2010 Greek Carnival Dates

Triodion: Sunday, January 24th

Tsiknopempti or "Burnt Thursday": February 4th
Tsiknopempti Weekend: Friday, February 5th - Sunday, February 7th
Main Carnival Weekend: Friday, February 12th - Sunday, February 14th
Clean Monday: Monday, February 15thAuthor: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 28.01.2010
18:05
2 February - Kalamata and Ipapanti
» Messinia and The Mani

2 February is the day that the Ipapanti, Kalamata's largest church, celebrates and all will pass through its doors to pay homage to the icon.

This year the Archbishop of Constantinopole, Barthodomew will be here.

The area of the old centre, 23 March square and all surrounding areas of the church will be highly congested on Tuesday.

2 February is also the day for the name day celebrations of Kalamata born Panagiotis, Panagiota and Maria - but check first because alot of people with these names celebrate in August.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 21.01.2010
18:26
4.3 Earthquake
» Messinia and The Mani

Yesterday afternoon we felt, in Kalamata, a big bump. Some of my photo frames fell over on the free standing bookcase and we all looked at each other and questionly said "Seismo?". It was indeed a 4.3 on the scale and, so I have been told, epicentre Poliani and 5km below the earth surface.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
18:24
Anniversary
» Messinia and The Mani

I celebrate 29 years in Greece this month! and it seems like I arrived here yesterday!!!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 31.12.2009
09:35
Car Road Tax
» Messinia and The Mani

Yesterday the Greek government announced that they are extending the time limit for payment of road tax to January 15!!! Always last minute here! Never a dull moment!

People are asking how much road tax is this year and I can't answer in detail all I do know is that cars that are 10 years old + are having their tax hiked up unless they are lower than 1300cc. There is an additional tax on the older vehicles of 100 Euro to cover the Enviroment.

My car is a jeep 1.7 and first circulated in 2004. Last year I paid 202 Euro this year I pay 252 Euro.

My partner's car is an Opel Vectra 12 years old 1.6 and he pays this year 202 Euro + 100 Euro = 302 Euro

Another friend has a jeep (1993) and they have to pay this year 352 Euro.

So it depends on the age and the cc of the vehicle!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 28.12.2009
09:32
Kalamata - Christmas Day
» Messinia and The Mani

The Greek Family Christmas Table - bowls ready for the soup and the home made Christmas Bread sitting on the table waiting to be cut!

The Christmas meal varies from region to region. In Kalamata it is normally to have a lemon egg meat soup, and then the boiled meat to follow!

Even after all these years of partaking of the above meal I still prefer English Christmas!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 23.12.2009
11:45
Music School of Kalamata
» Messinia and The Mani

The Christmas Concert last night was excellent as it is every year. Unfortunately there were not enough seats available to accommodate the families, friends and general public who arrived at 9pm to listen to the orchestra, jazz band and choir.

We heard a range of music - Byzantine, traditional, jazz and a selection of Christmas music and songs, in between there were small sketches presented showing the origin of Saint Basil and the Basilopita, the difference between Saint Nicholas (Father Christmas/Santa Claus) and Saint Basil, and also the meaning of Christmas.

Whoever did not manage to attend this year I strongly recommend you putting a note in your calendar for this time next year!

Merry Christmas - Kala Christougenna
Happy New Year - Kali ProtochroniaAuthor: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
11:44
Stoupa _ Water
» Messinia and The Mani

The Tharros, local newspaper, had front page that the testing for water in the bay of Stoupa has come back positive - good water and lots of water! Now what the means??? when will they make use of this information???

Your guess is as good as mine!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 18.12.2009
18:59
Christmas Concert - Music School of Kalamata
» Messinia and The Mani

The Music School of Kalamata
Christmas Concert
Tuesday 22 December 2009, 9pm

Central Theatre of Kalamata (near to the Kalamata courthouse)

Entrance Free

A concert well worth attending. The children are talented and definately bring that special feel to Christmas!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 11.12.2009
11:10
Milea Arts and Crafts - Stoupa
» Messinia and The Mani

Μία μέρα έκθεση

Κυριακή 13 Δεκέμβρη από τις 12:00 το μεσημέρι μέχρι 6:00 το βράδυ.

ΜΗΛΕΑ ΚΑΛΛΙΤΕΧΝΗΜΑ

ΣΤΟ ΠΑΜΠ ΠΑΤΡΙΚΟ ΣΤΗΝ ΣΤΟΥΠΑ

Χειροποίητα πήλινα (stoneware) και πορσελάνες της Ιντουν Στόρουντ, ξύλινα γλυπτά και σχέδια του Δημήτρη Ραφτέλη, ακουαρέλλες, κοσμήματα και είδη υφασμάτων τυπωμένα το χέρι.

Όλοι είναι ευπρόσδεκτοι!

One day exhibition

Sunday December 13 from 12:00 at noon till 6:00 in the evening.

MILEA ARTS AND CRAFTS

IN PATRIKOS PUB IN STOUPA

Ηand made stoneware and porcelain by Idun Storrud, wooden sculptures and drawings by Dimitris Raftelis, watercolours, jewellery and hand printed textiles.

Everybody is welcome!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
10:29
VOTE EARTH
» Messinia and The Mani

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 10.12.2009
13:10
Christmas Concert - Kalamata
» Messinia and The Mani

Saturday, December 12th, 2009

Kalamata Cultural Centre on Aristomenous Street @ 630pm

Should be fun, as always!
Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 03.12.2009
10:27
CAR- ROAD TAX
» Messinia and The Mani

Just to remind everyone that has a Greek registration plated vehicle in Greece.

Please ensure that you contact whoever receives your car road tax paper it will need to be paid (normally by the end of the year) and if you miss the pay by date you will end up paying double.

If you are not in Greece then make arrangements with some one who is to pick up your road tax paperwork and make the payment, or to go to the local tax office with the car registration papers and pay there!

The road tax has increased and it is very high now for old cars!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 02.12.2009
11:21
XMAS CAROLS
» Messinia and The Mani

v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} .shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);} Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Κανονικός πίνακας"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;}

PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD

Any English speakers or rather English Singers out there. We would like to invite you to join us in our annual Christmas Caroling Extravaganza

Every year a few of us gather outside AB Supermarket and entertain the Christmas Shoppers with our outstanding repertoire of Christmas Carols. Every year we collect money which we donate to various charities, local, national and international.

We would love you to come and join us this year apart from being great fun and giving us a chance to let those Yule Tide songs be heard in the streets of Kalamata, it is of course, a chance to give something back to the community

So time:- 11 am Christmas Eve. And New Years Eve

Place:- AB Supermarket by the Port

We will provide song sheets

Please contact me:- Fran if you would like more details or just to let me know if you are interested or in fact just to say hi would love to come but won’t be here.. or in fact just to say hi!!!!

Tel 6942 045339
email fburto61 @ hotmail.com

(remove the spaces before and after @)

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 26.11.2009
12:42
Swine Flu - Jab
» Messinia and The Mani

Just thought I would let you all know that the Greek TV is running an ad about all of us getting the swine flu jab.

General information about the jab and also about symptoms etc.

Ring 1135 (I do not know if this service is in any other language other than Greek)

As from 23 November - high risk groups have started to have the jab.

As from 1 December - the non-high risk groups will start to have jabs.

Oink! Oink!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 19.11.2009
12:09
Local News in and around Kalamata
» Messinia and The Mani

I haven't really been keeping you all updated properly for quiet sometime so this post is basically just to give you some liners on what has been happening in and around the area.

There is on going work within Kalamata for the new optic fibre lines going down so don't be surprised at the road works here there and everywhere.

The new road Vass. Georgiou which was completed and opened about a month and a half ago, without the traffic lights in operation, a big pain that was! You will all be glad to hear that traffic lights are now up and working which makes crossing the many junctions on this new road less hair raising and can bring you in to the centre of Kalamata from Lakonikis street that much quicker!

Plenty of building work, big building work, is going on and the new Metro (cash n carry) has opened on the N. Eisodos opposite Lidl and it seems that there is now ongoing movement of works on the other smaller building which is to be (name escapes me but they are Lidl's competitors).

There is also a big medical centre being built behind and to the left of the new Metro which I have been told will be a centre for people recovering from strokes and other disabilitating conditions.

The Mill on the harbour has been sold to person unknown to me to date and we wait to hear what will happen to this historic building - hopefully something tasteful and more in keeping with the old look of the harbour area rather than the looks of JUMBO and the Electra Hotel.

I was stopped by the local TV (NET) the other evening as I was walking up from the main square of Kalamata towards my offices; they were asking people about what international day the 3rd of December is for. I had no idea but the reporter kindly informed me that it was the people with special needs day. Brilliant! I was then asked what I thought of Kalamata and it's approach towards the needs of people with special needs - my immediate comment would not be the kind a reporter would like to show on TV or write up, although she did point out that pedistrian areas have been prepared for special needs and the ramps etc - again I said told her and the camera that this was brilliant but unfortunately a total waste since the majority did not respect the fact that all these features were for a reason. My final comment was "Shame on them all!" I have since been told by a friend that I was shown on local TV and it seems that my statement was not cut off!

Haven't driven out Pylos way a couple of times in the last month and seen the new junction that leads off towards the golf! Very impressive looking junction it is too and I shall look forward to the opening and then I can do a sweeping turn to the right (coming from Kalamata) and whizz down to the golf course.

I have also driven out to farming areas along the road leading to Kiparrissia and Kalo Nero and it is very obviously that the land is being cut away in on going works for the road that is coming down from Megalopoli area and the start of the bypass for Kalamata as well as improvement on the road leading towards Kiparissia which will mean that all people living up in the area of Meligala and Diabolitsi will have even quicker access to Kalamata, Messini and the airport as well as Kiparissia and Kalo Nero. It will also mean that the tiresome drive up and down to Athens with all those very dangerous and very boring bends will soon be history - whoppee!

The other good news is that as from the beginning of next year's holiday season 1 May we will have two flights to Athens a day, not that I would go to Athens by plane, but it will mean that people could get a cheaper deal possibly via Athens and then depending on the time scale and price, take the flight to Kalamata rather than rent a car or take the coach.

The weather has been great for the last week and I have been told that it should continue over the weekend (I want to go to Areopoli for the weekend, so fingers crossed for good weather) and in to next week. This dry and sunny patch has given us the opportunity to dry out and fill our bones with Vit D before the winter cold arrives (if it does).

They say down here that when it rains in Messinia it forgets to stop! Lucky for us it stopped, at least for now.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
11:57
Furniture For Sale
» Messinia and The Mani
Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Κανονικός πίνακας"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;}
French rustic antique coffee table (partially tiled on top) 200 €

1 small antique chest 100 €

1 antique chest with metal strapping 200 €

1 carved chest with carved patterns 250 €

Victorian antique dressing table with mirror 140 €

2 bedside tables with marble tops 150 €

1 antique dark wood low circular table 125 €

Victorian pine chest of drawers 150 €

Tall iron candle holder (3m) 60 €

2 beautiful modern wicker chairs (Harrods) 120 €

Free standing 2-door wardrobe 120 €

Double bed with mattress (as new) 200 €

Single bed with mattress (as new) * 120 €

Single bed with mattress * 120 €
- Single bed has a pull out bed underneath (2 beds in one)
Anyone interested should contact

Info @ mckellen-messiniakiproperties.gr

Remove the space before and after the @ in order to email

And your email interest will be forwarded to the seller.

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 16.10.2009
10:42
NAVARINO DUNES + NAVARINO BAY
» Messinia and The Mani

Photorealization of the Navarino Bay build - Green Design

Photorealization of Navarino Bay - you see only one building and a couple of pools

Photorealization of Navarino Dunes - shame they didn't do the same Green Design as they plan with Navarino Bay.

All the above were taken from the local Greek newspaper THARROS

Well it looks like an exciting 2010 for Messinia just hope that we don’t run out of water!
Taken from the local newspaper THARROS, Friday 16th October, 2009

Navarino Dunes (Hotel Comples) – should be open and operating in about 7 months time. The Dunes Course (golf) – has been completed and has been maintained for over a year in preparation for the opening of Navarino Dunes.
Navarino Bay – construction will start sometime 2010 and the photo realization shows one main building, some pathways and a couple of pools. The rest of the buildings been built in to the landscape therefore conforming to ‘Green Design’.
TEMES together with AEGEAN are planning 2 to 3 flights a day from Athens to Kalamata commencing May 2010.
May 2010 will also see AIR BERLIN flying in to Kalamata from Nuremberg, Hamberg, Berlin, Dusseldorf, Vienna and London as well as TUIFLY from Frankfurt, Munich and Hanover.

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 13.10.2009
19:25
Summer's End
» Messinia and The Mani

Well summer has come to an end suddenly; there I was sunning myself around the pool at the San Augostino Hotel (Mark Warner) catching up with Athenian friends on Sunday and last night it started to chuck it down.

The weatherman, who we never really believe, says that this will continue until Saturday and then what? Who knows but I presume the weatherman will let us know when he does!

The summer has been a busy time with a lot of Athenians down in the area as well as Greeks from other areas enjoying their holidays and looking around at property be it land to build or a second home to be used for weekends and holidays.

The real estate market is slow as we all know and it is a worldwide phenomena which will sooner or later pick up. The Sterling is not good at the moment so buying Euro is not such a good move, but if you are planning on buying Sterling then this might be a good time, or so I am told.

The weekend was good for gathering bits of information which are worth passing on and we will all keep an eye out at the beginning of the next summer season to see if it is all true.

The local newspaper tells us that there will be 3 flights coming in from Germany with Air Berlin.

The grapevine tells me that Aegean Air will be putting on a regular flight Kalamata-Athens.

RED magazine mentioned something about Olympic Airlines looking at an Athens Kalamata flight.

Now all three bits of information make for sweet dreams I am sure.

I shall try to be more faithful to my blog and get more information up online from the localnewspapers as well as from my grapevine.

Anyone who has some information or an event that they would like to announce then don't hesitate to contact me and I shall put it up here.

Kalo Ximona! Good Winter!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 26.08.2009
11:12
Rainbow End Art Gallery, Kardamili
» Messinia and The Mani

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 20.08.2009
18:15
Aegean Air - Kalamata/Thessaloniki & Kalamata/Athens ?
» Messinia and The Mani

The local newspaper, Tharros, today had an article about Aegean Air doing test flights Kalamata to Thessaloniki in case they earn the 4 year contract for internal flights. Now there was mention that the Kalamata/Athens route might be reopened.

I can only suggest that all of you/us that are interested in having the flight route reinstated Kalamata/Athens contact Aegean Air and state that you want. Especially if it means that we can make use of the cheaper flights out to Europe from Athens and avoiding that long haul via coach and then the express bus to the airport which adds at least 5 hours on to our journey time; you never know if Aegean Air see that there is a demand for UK flights they just might think of Kalamata/UK flight (dare I say all year round - now wouldn't that be nice?!)Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 06.08.2009
17:46
Rain Glorious Rain
» Messinia and The Mani

6th August, 2009 Kalamata
5pm it started to drizzle and my 'husband' announced that it wasn't really going to rain. The Gods are always on my side; so it did really rain.
5:10pm driving in to the office it started to bucket it down. Big grin on my face and I opened the car window, stuck my arm out to get it all wet and took a deep breath of wet town - lovely!
Parked and jumped out of car in to torrential rainfall and did a hop, skip and jump to office doorway - I really did want to do a Gene Kelly in the rush dirty rain water rushing down Stadiou street but thought better of it. Who would want to do business with a total mad real estate agent who takes to dancing in the rain? LoL
Hope that the mountains get absolutely drenched. The Meltemi is coming and that means the dry countryside is a huge tinderbox just waiting to be lit!
Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 21.07.2009
19:37
Apartment, Koroni way, Messinia
» Messinia and The Mani

Spacious ground floor apartment within landscaped garden with 2 shower rooms, living room, kitchen/diner, double bedroom and air conditioning, fully furnished and equipped.
Available for rent.
Contact Alan & Rita 27250 51500 or 6957256412
Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
19:34
House Reparis & Garden Maintenance, Koroni way
» Messinia and The Mani

House Repairs & Garden MaintenanceAll types of property repairsNo job too small! BrickworkWall/Floor TilesPaved Patios Phone Alan on 27250 51500 or 6957256412 Disclaimer: Any contents on this blog is for information only Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
19:29
Kalamata's main shopping street gets facelift!
» Messinia and The Mani

A lot of shop owners complained when they were advised that the upper end of Aristomenous was to become almost 100% pedestrian, but they soon stopped when they saw that more people walked and window shopped while work was on going - though mud and then dust! Now that the paving is complete and trees have been planted it has become a joy to wander down the high street window shopping, people watching (from the snack bars and cafes) and stopping and chatting to people you know along the way, as one does in a town like Kalamata where near everyone knows someone or is related to someone.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 13.07.2009
09:22
Photography Exhibition - Kardamili
» Messinia and The Mani

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 07.07.2009
13:35
"Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn!"
» Messinia and The Mani

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 03.07.2009
13:20
No Smoking as from July 1, 2009
» Messinia and The Mani

As from 1st July, 2009 the no smoking ban/law has been put in to effect here in Greece.
It was originally planned to go in to effect as of January 2010, but I suppose someone with some logic decided that the best time to enforce would be summertime, most people are living outdoors anyways.

Big debates on TV are about how the Greek nightclubs (Bouzouki) are going to deal with the law. It seems that since most of the very large Bouzouki clubs (live music/singers) have the space to provide a seperate seating area for the no smokers and an area for smokers separtion with a 'air wall'.

Companies that manufacturer and have started promoting 'smoking cabins' have been told by owners/managers of various businesses as well as public bodies that they will wait to see how Greece tackles and enforces the no smoking ban before going to the trouble and expense of 'smoking cabins'.

We will have to see how things go and write another small article about this ban come autumn time.

Just for the record: After being a smoker for over 30 years, have stopped smoking since 1st March of this year. Miss it but I will survive, taking each day as it comes. Have never had a problem about not being allowed to smoke in certain places and I certainly haven't become a fanatic non smoker.
Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
13:18
International Dance Festival Kalamata 2009
» Messinia and The Mani

www.kalamatadancefestival.gr Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 24.06.2009
12:17
Indian Take Away in Messinia
» Messinia and The Mani

I I have not tasted their food or tried out the delivery service, but since the reason for my blog on Messinia is to provide information - here it is.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 23.06.2009
18:30
Music Concert in Argos
» Messinia and The Mani

The 1st Panhellenic Music School Festival

Wednesday 24th June 2009 at 9 pm in the Ancient Theatre of Argos
Special appearance by Marisa Kox

Note: Alot of students and parents of students from the Music School of Kalamata will be going up to Argos to watch the performance. My son is at the Music School of Kalamata so he will be attending together with his father; I will report back later on this using their impressions of the night.
Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
18:27
A Great Place to Eat
» Messinia and The Mani

This is a great place to grab a healthy sandwich, salad or meal and you can even ring and order so that it is ready to pick up.

Great food and great service.

Anke's Kitchen
Kritis 34 - Kalamata
Phone 27210 97111Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 22.06.2009
18:46
A Day in the Life of a Real Estate Agent - Saturday morning
» Messinia and The Mani

AKROGIALI
Saturday morning and a slow start to the day due to no school on a Saturday. A coffee on my balcony, no cigarettes in sight since I stopped smoking on the 1st March, my two sons up and about, my potential seller rings to set an appointment for 11 am in order to show me his plot of land near to Santova.

Eldest son goes with father to handle phones at the office and surf the internet to his heart's content! Youngest opts to accompany Mum in the jeep to see this plot of land but also to then take me for my first swim of the summer!

Off we go in the heat of the morning, radio blaring and both of us singing along happily to the music. We meet up with my client and off we go driving along the coast road towards Kitries and turning off at Santova beach bridge because the land is located near to the village of Megali Mantineas. I then find myself having to turn off the road on to dirt track that seems to fall away from the asphalt. Seller assures me that jeep will go right down; being naive I always believe them, but luckily this time the truth was being told and we did get almost all the way down. Walked the last 100m to view a very overgrown plot of land which I am sure has a view to the sea but due to over/under growth I could only imagine. Instructed potential seller to get it cleared ASAP and also to give me all the paperwork, which they should have had in hand when we meet up, but had forgotten!!!

So after walking down to the land and then back up to the jeep, luckily had left son to listen to music in the jeep parked in the shade and with ice bag with cold water (I am a good mum) I was not in the best of moods being very very hot and bothered. Got in to jeep and couldn't really turn on air con (yes I have air con nowadays, not that I really like using it, but it does come in handy on really really hot days) due to the uphill dirt road and ok the LADA doesn't have any problem tackling such dirt road it wasn't extreme although it did look that way coming down! By the time we got back on to the aspahlt I looked like a drowned rat and both son and seller where a bit worried about how hot and bothered I looked, but after assuring everyone that I wasn't about to have a stroke; seller went off on his way and son and I hit the beach. A cold lager for Mum and juice for my little Greek merman.

Such is the life of a real estate agent in Kalamata.

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 17.06.2009
17:43
Cultural Evenings Kalamata
» Messinia and The Mani

Municipality of Kalamata "Summer 2009" Programme
Music concert - musical evening by pupils of the Municipal Music School honouring songwriter/poet L. PapadopouloWednesday 24 June 2009 at 21:00 hours - Amphitheatro of Kalamata Castle
Art Exhibition "Our Town"Tuesday 30 June 2009 at 21:00 hours - Art Workshop (don't know where this is will find out and post ASAP) Dance performance by the pupils of the Municipal Dance SchoolSaturday/Sunday 4/5 July 2009 at 21:00 hours - amphitheatro of Kalamata Castle Free entrance to all the above, so we can all show support to our children and their cultural activities.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 09.06.2009
12:40
All creatures big and small
» Messinia and The Mani

I have lived in the Mediterrean now since 1973 and holidays in the Med since 1964 and I have never ever seen a scorpion up close until this Saturday when I saw two. One in Verga and the other in Tseria. Just goes to show that you live and learn something new every day!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
12:38
Summer flowers
» Messinia and The Mani

A flower that I love and my plant this year has two so far!!! what a scent!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
12:37
Summer is here
» Messinia and The Mani

A great view looking on to cove of Delfinia and then Calogria, near to Stoupa Mani Messinia.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 05.06.2009
17:28
Last Minute Event - Kitries - Yorkshire Pudding
» Messinia and The Mani

YORKSHIRE PUDDING FEST Saturday 6th June, 20097.30pm onwards @ Gary & Jill's 'Siestas', Santova/Kitries
Giant Yorkshire Pudding.Serve yourself with a variety of meat and vegetarian fillings, vegetables and roast potatoes.Followed by choice of desserts.
A donation of 10 euro per person towards costs would be appreciated.Bring your own drinks.Please call to reserve and table as numbers are limited.Telephone: 27210-58557Mobile: 693 433 7768 Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
17:26
Last Minute Event - Stoupa Mani
» Messinia and The Mani

BAZAAR/FLOHMARKT
at Potamaki Restaurant in Stoupa
(close to Katerina’s supermarket)
Saturday, June 6th, 11 - 14
We offer antiques and curiosities, art and handicraft, UNICEF products, jewellery, smoked and marinated fish, sushi, pastry, second hand goods and clothing and much more.

Lottery Refreshments and meals
Tables (€5) available, Ph. 27210 78154, 27210 77061
The net income and donations will be used for the benefit of disadvantaged children in South Africa and Albania. Information about the various projects will be given at the bazaar.

Welcome
Fadderfriends UNICEF-StoupaAuthor: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
12:05
Painting for Beginners
» Messinia and The Mani

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 22.05.2009
19:16
WALKS IN MANI FOR MAY TO END OF JUNE
» Messinia and The Mani

Information courtsey of Paul S

At 9.30am every Thursday until the end of June, the Stoupa Walking Group will be heading off on their now regular rambles.
Walks start in Stoupa outside the Lefktron Hotel every Thursday at 9.30 a.m until the end of June.
This is a voluntary group who have decided to take tourists and anybody else wishing to join in the Stoupa area on local walks through the olive groves to some of the local villages, ending in a kafenion for lunch.

For more information contact Dave at 693-279-8690 or send him an e-mail at apps1550@yahoo.co.ukAuthor: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
19:15
BAZAARS - PETALIDI & KITRIES - 24 MAY 2009
» Messinia and The Mani

Information courtsey of Paul S.

TODAY WE BEGIN WITH AN IMPORTANT CHANGE TO THE TIMING OF ONE OF SUNDAY'S BAZAARS.====================================================PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE IN TIMES HERE.... THIS IS NOW BEGINNING AND ENDING EARLIER THAN PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED.

BAZAAR – SUNDAY 24TH MAY – 9AM TILL 12 MIDDAY – PARADISE RESTAURANT, PETALIDI.
All sorts of handcrafts and other crafts & Bric-a-brac, cakes & preserves, CD’s, DVD’s, jewellery, etc. will be available.
For anybody wishing to sell anything, tables are 5 euro, and can be set up from 9.30am onwards.
Mags Newton can be contacted for further information.

BAZAAR – SUNDAY 24TH MAY – MIDDAY TILL LATE AFTERNOON.
At Gary & Jill’s ‘Siestas’, Santaba/Kitries.

Books, CD’s, DVD’s, Crafts, Bric-a-brac, cakes, jewellery, etc.
Hot Food and hot & cold drinks will be available all day.
(including English Fish & Chips, Burgers, Hot-Dogs, etc)
Stalls will be free of charge this time, but please book early as numbers will be limited.
Please ring Gary & Jill at: 27210-58557 or 693-433-7768.=========================================================Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 19.05.2009
18:26
Archaeological Museum of Chora, Trifylia, Messinia
» Messinia and The Mani

Chora Museum which is about 4km north of the Palace of Nestor at Epano Englianos houses objects yielded by excavations in the area of the county of Messinia, and also a few important finds from the Palace itself.
The rooms of Chora Museum contain antiquities from important Mycenaeann sites distributed over a large part of the county of Messinia, such as those at Peristeria in Kyparissia, Englianos, and other, smaller settlements in the area.
There is also a large number of objects from major tholos tombs of kings or local rulers and from small thoso or chamber tombs of the inhabitants of the area during Mycenaean times (Late Helladic period 1550-1100BC).
There are also many finds from the Middle Helladic period (2000/1900-1550BC) and special interest attaches to the exhibits dating from the historical period from the settlement and cementary at Volimidia.
ROOM I
The many finds on display int e showcases of the irst room in the Chora Museum come mainly from excaations by S. Marinatos at sites in Triphylia and Pylia. They consist mainly of pottery, though they also include weapons, tools, jewellery etc. dating from the Late Helladic I-IIIB period (1550-1200BC), found in tombs in the demetery at Volimidia, at Voroulia in Tragana, and from the two tholos tombs of princes at Routsi near Myrsinochori.
A special place in this room is occupied by the wonderful group of gold finds from the three tholos tombs at Peristeria in Kyparissia, which date from the Early Mycenaean period. In addition to the laarge gold diadem and the three gold cups, thre is a large quantity of gold jewellery and small finds, such as beads, tufts, bands, jewellery, palmettes sea-tritons, owls, birds etc., all attesting to the prosperity and wealth of the region during this period.
The objects on display outside the showcases include amphoras from the tholos tombs at Peristeria and Routsi (Myrsinochori) which have impressive decoration, and also two large burial pithoi from the Middle Helladic tumuli at Kokorako in Peristeria and Ayios Ioannis near Papoulia.
ROOM II
The second room houses finds exclusively from the excavations of C.Blegen at the complex of the Palace of Nestor at Englianos. They consist of various types of poettery and fragments of superb wall-paintings depicting humans, animals and mythical beings in wonderful colours.
The two cases in the middle of the room contain plaster casts of clay tablets with inscriptions in the Linear B script. The original are in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.
ROOM III
The third room contains finds from the Palace of Nestor and the surrounding area and also from tombs uncovered on the hill at Englianos.
Amongst them we may note the pair of stone horns of consecration, which were found in the palace, the giant storage pithoi and the four large vases of the royal tholos tomb at Vayenas. The large number of functional vases displayed in the cases of the same room is particularly interesting as is also the clay 'barbacue' for roasting meating.
Many of the valuable finds from the two large royal tholos tombs in the area of Englianos are now on display in the national Archaeological Museum in Athens.
(All the above has been copied from the official leaflet from the museum - copyright Archaeological Receipts Fund Tel. 210 3722500, Fax. 210 3242684)
http://www.tap.gr
Information Phone Number: 27630 31358, 26240 22529
Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 12.05.2009
08:37
HOUSEHOLD ITEMS - HOUSE SALE
» Messinia and The Mani

HOUSE SALE!!

Sunday, May 17th, 2009
Starting 09:00 am

Aside from antiques and decorative items, also:

► Double door refrigerator (LG) with ice maker and water dispenser
► High-rise wooden double bed (IKEA) for office or sitting space underneath
► Mosaic topped kitchen table
► 4 IKEA blond wood and white kitchen chairs
► Glass and mini sawhorse coffee table
► various lamps and lighting fixtures
► 1 classic guitar

Behind NOTOS super market,
Kritis St.
Call me for directions!
6970088603 Anke
Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 23.04.2009
11:26
ART EXHIBITION AROUND CENTE OF KALAMTA
» Messinia and The Mani

Display of Art Around Town - 21 March - 1 May 2009The colour coding is as follows:Green - VitroLight Orange - SculptureOrange - Structure/InstallationBlue - Art (drawing)Yellow - CeramicsPink - PhotographyBlack - Comics/CartoonistBrown - Video ArtParticipating Artists:Vitro: Kiniklis GabriliSculpture: Voutsina Marianna, Dousis Konstantinos, Safaris Alexios, Fragkos IoannisStructure/Installation: Tentes PanagiotisArt : Androutsakis stathis, Aridas Tasos, Vavalea-Manolakakis Konstantina, Vraxatis Konstantinos, Voulgarelis Thodoros, Giannakopoulos Dimitris, Giannetos Nikos, Giannopoulou Athina, Gkouzos Ioannis, Gaitanis Mixail, Dimitrouli Sofia, Zoupanos Aris, Zogopoulou Maria, Iliopoulos Dimitris, Kotsakis Nikos, Kapernarou Aggeliki, Kyriazi Eleni, Ktena Anneta, Kazi Dimitra, Kannelakopoulou Xristiana, Kateri Vasiliki, Koropaiou Eleni, Karizonhis Vasilis, Manolakakis Mixail, Mitsea Panagiota, Mayrea Stauroula, Mamai Eirini, Bairli-Raniou Giouli, Martinou Eleanna, Mantzouka Antonia, Bousounis Nikos, Parissou Persa, Panagiotopoulos Nikos, P,lunthidou Lina, Simeionopoulos Konstantinos, Stamatopoulou Despoina, Sboyrenou Ioanna, Tagaroulia Kirki, Tzamouranis Sotiris, Tsakirian Mariam, Trigkilida Eleni, Xaritou Leuki, Balducci Francesco Rocco, Dartehouk Anatoliy, Pozdnyakova OlenaCeramics: Maliadrou Konstantina, Politi Aggeliki, Xristopoulos IliasPhotography: Zois Dimitris, Koromilas Kostas, Kotsiaris Nikitas, Lukourezou Tzeni, Politi Efi, Panagiotopoulos Spiros, Stathopoulos Giorgos, Foifa Murto, Dudzinski Arkadiusz, Studio FComics/Cartoonist: Maureas ArgirisVideo Art: Dimitrakopoulos Giorgos, Dimitrakopoulos Sakis, Zafeiropoulos Theodoros, Koulouras Panagiotis, Koutiva Mariaggela, Papadopoulou Gioula, Poulopoulou Eva, Riga Nausika, Stauraki Margarita, Tzamouranis Panagiotis, Tentes Panagiotis, Foifa Murto [www.eikastikiperipati.gr] Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 19.03.2009
13:33
TREE PLANTING ON MT. TAYGETOS
» Messinia and The Mani

The last couple of weekends, last weekend being the final one, the municipality and many volunteers were up on Taygetos planting trees.

Here is a photo of a couple of your local volunteer firefighters, who were also out every Sunday planting trees.

Will do another post soon with all the information on the Kalamata based volunteer service.Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
11:38
25th March - Greek War of Independence
» Messinia and The Mani

The Greek War Of Independence 1821-1829 In rememberance of the uprising against the Turkish occupation there are many parades throughout Greece. The 17th March sees parades start in Areopolis Lakonia (Mani) and moving along the coast to Kalamata where on the 23rd March there is a gathering in the historic square of 23rd Martiou near to the old market place in the historic area of the town. The 25th March - a National Holiday - sees all of Greece remembering this time with the schools and the military parading through the main centres of towns and cities throughout the country. The 25th March is also a religious feast day (Evanglismo of Theotokou) and Name Day for all those names Evangelos (Vangelis) and Evangelia. The traditonal dish of the day is fried cod with garlic sauce (Bakalaou me skordalia) - careful those of you with low blood pressure! After the parade and before lunch it is customary, especially on a nice day, to sit in the square or by the sea drinking coffee or ouzo with meze. Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
11:06
PAY PARKING IN CENTRE KALAMATA
» Messinia and The Mani

Controlled Parking in Centre of Kalamata (Parking Cards)
As from 16 March 2009 parking cards can be purchased at kiosks in Kalamata.
An example of a scratch parking card.
Prices:
One (1) Hour Card: 0,50 EuroTwo (2) Hour Card: 1,00 EuroFour (4) Hour Card: 2,00 Euro
Parking Cards are to be enforced Monday to Friday from 0800-1400 hours and 1700-2100 and Saturday from 0800-1400
National Holidays and Sundays - no parking cards required.
Instructions for Scratch Card Parking Metre:
The Dial - outer circle shows HOUR and the inner circle shows MINUTES You will scratch out the exact time that you park your vehicle in the 'controlled parking area'
You will then need to scratch out the corresponding YEAR (there are three boxes to the bottom right of the dial
You will then need to scratch out the corresponding MONTH (shown Greek/Eng) and then the DATE.
The card must then be placed in a prominent position the front windscreen of the car.
Parking tickets/fines will be issued should you be parked in a controlled parking zone without the following:
Parking in zone without parking card and/or without placing said parking card in visible postion on inside of windscreen.Parking in zone with card in place but not information scratch outParking in zone with 5mins + over your parking card payment
Controlled Parking Zone (defined in Dark and Light Blue on Street Map)The municipality have their own traffic wardens, dressed in brown, who will be issuing parking fines.

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 10.03.2009
10:11
Mt. Taygetos
» Messinia and The Mani

Not the best day to take a shot of the snow caps of Mt. Taygetos, but I love being on 'the other side' of Messinia (Petalidi and Chrani way) because the view across the bay to the mountains is rather beautiful. A clear winter's day or early spring provide the best views, especially when there has been a snow fall.

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 25.02.2009
12:12
CARNIVAL 2009 - UPDATE ON THINGS TO DO
» Messinia and The Mani

Courtesy of Paul S.

Friday 27th February - Kalamata
Brenda K. Lee will be singing with the amazing Jazz band, the 'Freak Brothers' at 'Bassiviola' in Kalamata.The concert will begin somewhere around 10pm to 10.30pm for you nighthawks who aren't tucked up with your teddies by then! Those of you who were at the Kalamata New Years Eve celebrations will have experienced Brenda and the Freak Brothers entertaining the masses on the main platia. If you like Jazz with excellent brass, you'll love this!
------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 28th February - Gary & Jill's 'Siestas'
‘Mild and Wild—Mexican buffet’. - 7.30pm onwards

Cheesy Nachos with Salsa.
~~
Tacos, Enchiladas, Quesadillas, Fajitas, Burritos.
Various toppings (including vegetarian).
Mexican rice.
Refried beans.
Salsa’s, Guacamole, salads.
~~
Mexican dessert

12 euro per head towards food cost would be appreciated
(bring your own drinks).

Please book in advance, if you wish to reserve a table, as space is limited.

TEL. 27210 58557 MOBILE. 693 4337768
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 27th February – Kalamata
6pm @ the Central Platia/Square, Kalamata
Face Painting for children
and who knows, perhaps for oldies in their second childhood as well!!
7pm @ the Central Platia/Square, Kalamata
Holiday celebration & riotous fun!
-------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 28th February - Kalamata
11.30am @ Historic Centre, Platia Othonos, Kalamata
Traditional dancing and yummy local foods...
Plus events with and by the children for adoring parents and grandparents to coo over their little angels!
--------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 1st March - Laika village
6pm @ the central square at LAIKA (near the Church)
Come and see the hot air balloons being prepared and then launched at 7pm.
With face painting for children from 6pm
Free local drinks and snacks (the free wines were very suppable last year)...
This is a facinating event which I attended last year.
Watching those hot air balloons being assembled and then fires lit under them and watching them go up, with many coming straight back down in flames all over the place!
A real 'must attend' event for all self respecting pyromaniacs!
----------------------------------------------
Sunday 1st March - Alagonia village (Taygetos)
4pm – Special local events, including Traditional dance, music, free food & drink
From around 7pm - Lighting of the bonfire, local foods & drinks, traditional music.
All the thrills spills and excitement of mountain village life for real!
----------------------------------------------
Sunday 1st March - Nedousa village @ central square (Taygetos)
From around 7pm - Lighting of the bonfire, local foods & drinks, traditional music
Yet more thrills spills and excitement of mountain village life for real!
-------------------------------------------------
Monday 2nd March (Clean Monday)
Carnivals from around 10.30am till 12 noon in Kalmata town and many main villages.
Programme is not clear where the various carnivals will be!
We believe that the main carnival in the area this year will be at Messini town. The nearest we have managed to glean on timings for Messini is "somewhere around 12 noon"!
Well, you have 1.5 hours to rush around Kalamata, then up the mountain to Nedousa and Alagonia, until you find where they intend to have the carnival!
Well.... you know the day and time.... just not the exact place!
-------------------------------------------------

Saturday, March 7th, 11am – 2pm
BAZAAR / FLOHMARKT @ Potamaki Restaurant in Stoupa
(close to Katerina’s supermarket)
There will be antiques and curiosities, art and handicraft, UNICEF products, jewellery, smoked and marinated fish, sushi, second hand goods and clothing and much more. Also a Lottery!
Refreshments and meals will be available.
Tables (€5) are available if you wish to display or sell goods. Tel:. 27210 78154, 27210 77061 The net income and donations will be used for the benefit of disadvantaged children in South Africa and Albania. Information about the various projects will be given at the bazaar.Fadderfriends UNICEF-Stoupa
----------------------------------------------------------

Saturday 14th March - 7.30pm onwards

Indian Buffet – Gary & Jill’s ‘Siestas’ @ Santova

12 euro per head towards food cost would be appreciated
(bring your own drinks).

Please book in advance if you wish to reserve a table, as space is limited.

TEL. 27210 58557 MOBILE. 693 4337768 Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 19.02.2009
11:24
Tsiknopempti
» Messinia and The Mani

On Tsiknopempti (compound word originating from the words tsikna — the smell of roast food and Pempti — Thursday), roasting meat is a nation-wide custom, as the following day marks the beginning of Lent, until Easter. Don't think it is really the beginning of Lent, if I have it correct my mother in law starts fasting with a vengance around "Clean Monday" which is March 2nd this year.

Today is Tsiknopempti, so my better half is doing the rounds, around Kalamata, visiting friends who are grilling outside the various places of work.

Why aren't I with him? Well someone has to work.
Why aren't I grilling outside my office? I'm on a diet.

Next post will be about "Clean Monday" which is equivalent to the UK 'Shrove Tuesday' and in Greece it is also Kite Flying Day! Whoppee!Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
10:17
CARNIVAL 2009
» Messinia and The Mani

CARNIVAL SEASON EVENTS LEADING TO LENT (All information courtsey of Paul Styliano)
Sorry about the delay in getting this out, but I was trying to get the programmes from various councils for the many and varied carnival events at the moment, but it seems that they just make it all up as they go, or they keep the person who knows where and what time it's all happening locked up incommunicado until the very last moment!All I have managed so far, is the main events in Kalamata, Laika, Alagonia and Nedousa. If anybody out there knows of others in other villages which may be of interst to people, then please let me know and we can send out updates! I finally got a copy of parts of the programme off the Kalamata Mayor's desk this morning as nobody else seems to have anything with times or places and even this programme is vague at the best! Anyway, there is a lot of very intersting traditional stuff going on and lots of food and drink being given away during many of these events, so for what it's worth...... here goes:
Thursday 19th February – Kalamata
12.00 noon @ the Historic centre of Kalamata (near the little church on the old platia)
Music for this holiday season from the Council's Philharmonic
A must for music lovers from that universally renowned Kalamata Philharmonic.
When your music loving friends overseas hear that you were there to hear them live, you will be the envy of them all!

Saturday 21st February – Kalamata
9.00pm @ the theatre/conference area of the Council Odeiou, Kalamata
Artistic Cafenion – Time with Mr Hugh More
For all you arty types, a real "must attend" and opportunity to hang around with the beautiful people!

Sunday 22nd February – Kalamata
11.30am @ the Central Platia/Square, Kalamata
Traditional Gaitanaki (Maypole dance)
Holiday celebration events and theatre
Music & Traditional Dance
Lots of very colourful Greek traditional things here to photograph and video.
Just don't forget your Brownie Box cameras or you'll be kicking yourselves!

Friday 27th February – Kalamata
6pm @ the Central Platia/Square, Kalamata
Face Painting for children
and who knows, perhaps for oldies in their second childhood as well!!
7pm @ the Central Platia/Square, Kalamata
Holiday celebration & riotous fun!

Saturday 28th February - Kalamata
11.30am @ Historic Centre, Platia Othonos, Kalamata
Traditional dancing and yummy local foods...
Plus events with and by the children for adoring parents and grandparents to coo over their little angels!

Sunday 1st March - Laika village
6pm @ the central square at LAIKA (near the Church)
Come and see the hot air balloons being prepared and then launched at 7pm.
With face painting for children from 6pm
Free local drinks and snacks (the free wines were very suppable last year)...
This is a facinating event which I attended last year.
Watching those hot air balloons being assembled and then fires lit under them and watching them go up, with many coming straight back down in flames all over the place!
A real 'must attend' event for all self respecting pyromaniacs!

Sunday 1st March - Alagonia village (Taygetos)
4pm – Special local events, including Traditional dance, music, free food & drink
From around 7pm - Lighting of the bonfire, local foods & drinks, traditional music.
All the thrills spills and excitement of mountain village life for real!

Sunday 1st March - Nedousa village @ central square (Taygetos)
From around 7pm - Lighting of the bonfire, local foods & drinks, traditional music
Yet more thrills spills and excitement of mountain village life for real!

Monday 2nd March (Clean Monday)
Carnival from around 10.30am till 12 noon
Programme is not clear where the various carnivals will be!
Well, you have 1.5 hours to rush around Kalamata, then up the mountain to Nedousa and Alagonia, until you find where they intend to have the carnival!
There are also rumours of a major carnival at Messini town at the same time!
Well.... you know the day and time.... just not the exact place!

==================================================
Saturday 28th February from 7.30pm onwardsat Gary & Jill's 'Siestas'Mexican Buffet (Mild through spicy)Bring your own drinks 12 euro per head towards food cost would be appreciated!Please book in advance to reserve a table as space is limited.
Tel: 27210 58557 Mob: 693 433 7768

Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »
Καλαμάτα, Μεσσηνία, 29.01.2009
18:59
Navarino Resort - Pylos Golf Complex
» Messinia and The Mani

The local newspaper now tells us that the opening of the subject resort is now planned for 2010 - I have to say that 'seeing will be believing' since the opening date keeps be put back! Dare I say 'Watch this space".Author: Sarah McKellen - licenced real estate agent. Head of McKellen-Messiniaki Properties with offices in Kalamata, Messinia A licenced real estate agency offering property listings in the area of Messinia and the Mani. For more information visit: [http]

Περισσότερα... »

← Living4TheSun Messinian Farm →

Hellas Blogs:
Naxos Blogs (Νάξος)
Santorini Blogs (Σαντορίνη)
Mykonos Blogs (Μύκονος)
Karditsa Blogs (Καρδίτσα)
Komotini Blogs (Κομοτηνή)
Arcadia Blogs (Αρκαδία)