It is still hot in the sun

Well, after I filed my report on Friday afternoon, the clouds joined hands and rained over Yialos and Pedi. About two hours later they pulled the same stunt in Chorio. Although it was only about 2 mm of rain, the downpours over Yialos and Pedi happened at lunch time and were enough to moisten more than one portion of moussaka! Fortunately it was clean rain and did not do much damage. According to the weather forecast there may be more thundershowers passing through later this week, once again without any serious winds. If we have another shower or two the island should start greening over quite quickly.

The rain has freshened the air and the shortening days and shallow angle of the sun mean that the shade is cool. It is still hot in the sun, however, with temperatures around 35 at midday. The falling leaves are letting through more light and sun in places that were shaded in high summer. The full moon has been spectacular this week and the evenings have been mild enough to enjoy dinner under the stars, listening to the tinkle of bells as the neighbour's sheep browse in the moonlight.

The harbour is still crowded with yachts and gulets each night and Pedi is busy too. Although the season for the megayachts is largely passed, serious sailors are in abundance and there are some interesting cruising yachts around, particularly with northern flags. Holland, Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Denmark, Belgium. Traditional designs made of wood or steel and often built for far heavier sailing conditions than the Mediterranean summer has to offer - but infinitely more comfortable for thrashing up and down the Aegean in November and December in a Force 7 or 8 than the usually GRP flotilla charter boats with their huge cockpits, sun loungers and light weight rigging.

Have a good week!

Regards,
Adriana
The Symi Visitor