Shortieweb

2 weeks into August. the weather is good, although there have been moments of storm weather as you know, but on the whole it is really hot, humid and dry.
Today there is a chance of a shower and storms are in the distance, some think that a heavy fall is possible! I hope not, not on a Sunday in the middle of the peak season. I will be preparing the roast for about 80 and if it rains it could be a big issue! but hey ho! the day is long yet and the skies may clear.
Had a few days out this week with John and Mandy-in-Essex and family. 1 day at the Mill bar and another at Axillion in Amoudi, much needed amongst the hard push at the moment. Not only is it busy season but I have a mountain of paperwork to deal with at the moment, you know, red tape etc and that means lots of time in town! it's all part of the big picture. This coming week I will be very busy with it all. Staring tomorrow I am gathering papers from numerous offices, queing and sweating! lovely! Another week of it should break the back of it though, maybe even get a little time out too!
The high streets are flowing well some nights, but getting quieter others. There are plenty of people about but I think that times are changing a bit especially in Alykanas. The 2 big hotels have brought many families to the area and as far as the British are concerned, it seems to have become more of a family resort than it used to be. This is great, but I think that businesses need to adapt a little.
For example, many families that return here would like to experience the Greek apartmant style holiday after many years at the hotels. Their kids are getting a bit older maybe and don't need the entertainment but there are not enough large apartments to cater for them.
Even those that make it, or want to venture out from the hotels and enjoy the night life, will not stay out as late, so many of the late cocktails bars that we used to see full until 4am are relatively empty.
In peak summertime now the window for capturing custom is between 7pm, more likely peaking at 8pm, until midnight. this is the time bars and restaurants need to attract as many customers as possible so those doing more to attract families will prosper.
Of course nobody will forget the undying loyalty of the regulars that keep this place alive, but to survive, there needs to be a little transition and I'm sure some will see the way.
There is a 6 week period that most places have to make to money that will top up what they make the rest of the season as the generous locals fight to keep prices down to keep the friends of Alykon happy. It's a strange thing seeing so many people about early and then the place just empties out around midnight, but I'm sure it will get better and all will come to terms with the situation.
The beaches are as busy as normal and I think for most the rooms are busy too, but because of flight costs, independents are struggling. More people are taking packages at the moment but hopefully flights will come down in price soon and these wonderful places will come alive once more.
Olimpic holidays are doing Allocated on Arrival holidays at good prices and sometimes it is worth it just for the flight! Have a look at one of these options. There are still some bargains to be had.
Checkout Cosmos holidays too. Packages from £235 in August! great prices and flying from many airports. It's worth a look.
Leaving us this week.
Well should say last week! just behind with the updates, Alan (Evertonian), Clint and families who we thoroughly enjoed having at the Venus studios. this great bunch of people have been coming here for many years and know how to enjoy a holiday. It was our pleasure guys and can't wait until next time.
         
Who's the short one???
         
Oh! Jules turn now! Is she taller than me?
         
Clint!! That's not nice!! lol
          
Also leaving
         
and
         
Also, Troy and his Mum and Dad who kindly bought is all a drink! Cheers
         
What nice people these are! Not the 2 in front, they just love a picture opportunity.
        
And the lovely Cartmell family back again this year. Great to see you again and hope to see you next year!
         
Little Luke and family. Luke really didn't want to leave, he was a little upset. He's not alone!
         
Bomerematt, Alex and Jennifer going home today. It's been great meeting you all and I know you are talking about coming back, just make sure you do!!!
         
And Bye to the In-Essex family, John, who I really enjoy talking to when I have the chance. A lot in common and a lot not! but interesting all the same, Mandy who spent a lot of time with Jules, probably talking about us!!! and the girls Amy and Laura, really nice kids! well not so much kids anymore, Young Ladies! See you soon.
         
Well, it's not often you see a picture like this in August over here, but here is the weather picture!
          
In the background you can see the harvest of the grapes. Apparently not so good this year either, but not a disaster so like everything at the moment, etsi ketsi as the Greeks say (So So)
You may notice that they have covers over the harvest, that is because it may rain and that would be a problem as these grapes are to become raisins and need to be dry or they will rot.
Here's a closer look
        
The old chap you see standing there is watching over his workers. He'll be there all day as long as they work! At least he has the shade of the tree!
A quick piccie of the Likely lads, Andy and Les at the helm for breakfast! Les is standing in for Gillian who has been injured for a few weeks and he has been an asset. Jolly and happy, he keeps all amused with his cheeky chappy quips!! Didn't want his piccy taken though!
         
Cosy Corner Special last night - Steak night. Growing ever popular and the best choice of prime British style cut steaks available. People are talking about them! That's good for me!

Yesterdays Weather - Hot and muggy but a bit cooler this morning! Forecast a shower possible and storms in the distance! 38degs

Exchange rate in the resorts - 1.20e.

ATM Watch - All working and operational.

If you are coming over - Darjeeling Teabags, Marmite or equivelent and beef Oxo's please.

Mossie Watch - Average for the time of year!  But not a problem to those who wear mossie stuff

If you are going to celebrate a birthday or any event at the Cosy Corner and you would like us to organise a Bananagram or a Blobbygram or even a cake, just click contact me and message me.

Note - Also, please remember to bring your EHIC card  and read our advise on our "Coming here on holiday" Page.

Note - Another thing! please bring sun lotion and creams with you. You will pay up to 20 euros for sun lotion here. Tesco or Asda must be better.