That Familiar Symi Smell

It is another sunny day on Symi. Down in Yialos the berthing attendants are rushing about, directing cruising yachts to their slots and taking lines. Other boats are circling, awaiting attention. There are a number of American registered yachts in the harbour at the moment as well as Australian and New Zealand ensigns to be seen as those who brave the Red Sea and the Suez Canal finally make it into the gateway to the Aegean. Speaking from experience, it is always a relief for yachtsmen to be dodging ferries instead of super tankers and possible pirate ships and to know that there is a safe anchorage at the end of every day’s sailing.

Speaking of sea farers, the day tripper boats are starting to come in and it is time for visitors staying on the island to vacate Yialos and start the day. Regular visitors and newcomers alike are heading off in all directions, some in search of brunches and lunches in Chorio and Pedi, others in search of beaches, churches, botanical specimens, subjects to photograph or paint and quiet places in which to read a book. The oregano is in full flower now and the warm air is soaking up that familiar Symi smell of hot herbs. The wild thyme bushes are slowing turning mauve with tiny blossom and still there is the heavy perfume of honeysuckle and jasmine in the courtyards and gardens of Chorio.

The weather forecast for the next few days shows a slight drop in temperatures to a more comfortable 28 degrees, with the possibility of occasional thunder showers like the sprinkling of muddy drops that spatter across Symi yesterday afternoon.

Have a pleasant week.

Regards,

Adriana