Greek Summers ...

Lots of people from all over the world, have enjoyed summer holidays in Greece and still enjoy them. The tourist industry, more than most industries, has taken a great blow this year, and it is still uncertain whether this will be the first of many uncertain summers. In this unsettled climate, the pressure is on all areas within this industry to weather this storm, but the signs are that this may be more of a downpour than a mere shower. In this area alone, most of the hotels opened their doors to custom today, the first of June. Hotels that have been running for years, and have been opening since the beginning of May, as in most areas, found it more economical to remain closed, rather than open for the few tourists that were around. A difficult choice in difficult times. Another amazing fact that with the Orthodox Whitsun Bank Holiday around the corner, some hotels will remain closed and will open at the end of this month, waiting for the high season to arrive so their costs are kept as low as possible.

What are your thoughts on Greece as a tourist destination? It would be great to hear your views.

The Ionian coastline - Perdika - A place to visit

Now, I'd like to tell you more about the coastline in this area, as I feel it is really worth visiting. Firstly, the largest and most frequented beach in there is Karavostasi. It's about a kilometre long with clear blue waters hidden between lush green mountains. On the one mountain there is a large hotel and on the other you can find one of the oldest archeologicla sites in the area, the ancient town of Elina. Karavostasi is an open bay with deep waters, so it is ideal for those of you who love swimming. Hotels and rented rooms can be found at a close distance to the beach, so you are able to stay nearby. All the hotels offer excellent service, and most are family run, so there is always a warm atmosphere. Restaurants and bars can also be found, and a bus service can take you to and from most places within the Perdika limits.

Arilla beach is ideal for families with younger children. The shallow waters make it a safe place to sit and let the kids play. Fine sand covers the beach and there are also rooms and restaurants along this beach. A small harbor is also ideal for those of you who may be sailing around the Ionian Sea.

Agia Paraskevi is another of the most popular beaches in the area, and is next to two other smaller beaches, Kamini and Agali. Here you can also find rooms, hotels and restaurants.

As well as these, there are five more beaches along the coastline, all accesible, and all just as beautiful as the main beaches. Some are ideal for those who like peace and tranquility. All are clear, clean and ideal for those warm summer days.