Messinia and The Mani - Greece

Early Morning - Winter, Kalamata

2012-01-31T15:58:00.000+02:00

Collage and Inner Self

2012-01-31T15:56:00.001+02:00

Mid January we had a lovely weekend attending an extremely interesting workshop, Collage and Inner Self. We, our group of 7, had an entertainingly educational weekend with a lot of laughter and a few tears. Any one interested in making up numbers for another workshop on Collage please feel free to contact me and I can put you in contact with Alkistis.

COLLAGE and INNER SELF

The mind consists of two parts: the conscious and thesubconscious.

See an iceberg with your mind’s eye. The consciousmind is the part above the water’s surface, and the subconscious the parthiding under its surface. These two parts function in totally different ways.

Conscious Mind	Subconscious Mind
The conscious mind uses logic	The subconscious mind expresses itself through the language of symbols
The conscious mind has the ability to find solutions	The subconscious mind forms abilities and habits
The conscious mind, in its effort to understand, works hard	The subconscious mind is not interested in how something works, but uses the first thing it finds, regardless of how well it serves it.
The conscious mind has the tendency to waste time to understand, simply for the satisfaction it derives from doing so	The subconscious mind continues to act in certain ways, even when it’s clear that these ways do not serve us.

It has been scientifically proven that a bigpart of the creative expression has its roots in the subconscious mind, whichwe will be referring to as the “inner self.” If we want to use creativeexpression to find solutions to our everyday problems, it is necessary tocommunicate with our inner self at will. The truth is that we are in constantdialogue with our inner self, many times however and for various reasons, realcommunication falls through.

With collage, which leads to the richness of thesymbols the inner self uses, opens a channel of communication with theawakening mind. In contrast to dreams, which with time fade, collage providestangible signs concerning the dialogues that take place at the backstage of themind. In many cases, and as you make more collages, you will notice that theyevolve in stages and actions. It’s as if life and collage conspire in order toshow you the way, or to confirm that the course you are following is the rightone for you at the given time.

“Every artist dips his brush in his own soul, and paints his own nature intohis pictures.”

- Henry Ward Beecher, (1813 - 1887),

abolitionist & clergyman

The workshop is presentedduring 2, non-consecutive, meetings each lasting two to two and a half hours(depending on the number of participants).

Furthermore, you will need the following material (for creating a collage ofyour own after the 1^st session):

· 2copies of National Geographic/Georama/or some other similar magazinelandscapes, people, animals – no stylized photos

· 1notebook/pad to take notes

· 1A4 paper board (you may use the cover of your notebook, provided it’s a hardone)

· Penor pencil

· UHUglue stick

· scissors

The creative exploration of the inner self with theart of Collage is an enlightening journey with many surprises. Besides, isn’tit great when life continues to surprise and guide us?

About me Alkistis Kelessidi:

I have beenpainting ever since I was a child. During the past 7 years I have also taken upsculpting. At a certain point in my life my artistic pursuits brought me to thethreshold of Art Therapy. Knowing well how much the arts benefit us, Iparticipated in several experiential Art Therapy workshops at the Center of Art& Psychotherapy in Athens.Apart from collage, to which I was initiated by Contemplative Collage (Santa Fe, New Mexico), I also present a workshop of CreatingMandalas (a road to Insight, Healing and Self Expression) based on the work ofSusanne Fincher.

Mymain activity is coaching groups in painting and miniature sculpting in Nafplio(Griekenland aan Zee), Paros (Aegean Scapes), and Holland (Miniati Sculpture, Gallery de MooieLisa). In 2004 I was lucky enough to work as a Consultant for the Opening andClosing Ceremonies of the Olympic Games in Athens – a unique and valuable experience. RecentlyI trained next to Leonard Orr in Rebirhting/Breathwork, a safe and naturalbreathing technique, which connects us to the subconscious, the home of ourdeepest thoughts, beliefs and wishes.
Istrongly believe that arts give us the possibility to express ourselveseffortlessly, to reconnect with the child within and to uplift our soul. I drawinspiration from nature’s glory and the richness of human emotions.

Happy New Year

2012-01-31T15:49:00.000+02:00

Here is wishing you all peace, health and happiness where ever you are and whatever your life situation is.

I have to apologize again that I have neglected my blog, but this year I will do my best to inform, entertain and also post more photos than words - me thinks we have all had enough of the blah blah blah.

Christmas Shop Hours 2011

2011-12-15T12:30:00.001+02:00

In an announcement made by The National Confederation of Greek Trade, all retail shops throughout Greece will maintain extended business hours for the holidays of Christmas and New Years. In Athens, holiday shop hours will begin this Thursday December 15th, 2011, and on Sunday December 18th, 2011, all retail shops will remain open from 10:00 until 18:00.

Note: On Monday January 2nd, 2012 shops in Athens will be closed due to the day worked on Sunday, December 18, 2011.

For everyone who’s waiting for sales to begin, winter sales officially start January 15th, 2012.On Monday January 2nd, 2012 shops in Athens will be closed due to the day worked on Sunday, December 18, 2011.
Thursday 15/12/2011 => 9:00 - 21:00
Friday 16/12/2011 => 9:00 - 21:00
Saturday 17/12/2011 => 9:00 - 20:00
Sunday 18/12/2011 => 10:00 - 18:00
Monday 19/12/2011 => 9:00 - 21:00
Tuesday 20/12/2011 => 9:00 - 21:00
Wednesday 21/12/2011 => 9:00 - 21:00
Thursday 22/12/2011 => 9:00 - 21:00
Friday 23/12/2011 => 9:00 - 21:00
Saturday 24/12/2011 => 9:00 - 18:00
Sunday 25/12/2011 => NATIONAL HOLIDAY
Monday 26/12/2011 => NATIONAL HOLIDAY
Tuesday 27/12/2011 => 9:00 - 21:00
Wednesday 28/12/2011 => 9:00 - 21:00
Thursday 29/12/2011 => 9:00 - 21:00
Friday 30/12/2011 => 9:00 - 21:00
Saturday 31/12/2011 => 9:00 - 18:00
Sunday 1/1/2012 => NATIONAL HOLIDAY

Courtesy of ExpatsAthens.com

2011/2012 Greek Income tax declarations

2011-12-01T10:39:00.001+02:00

Prepare your account file now:

If you bought or sold property in Greece during 2011 then you need to submit a copy of the contract
If you imported money in to the country then ensure that you have 'pink' slips from your bank
If you bought or sold a vehicle during 2011 then you need to declare so you need declaration from seller/buyer and if you bought a vehicle the car/bike paper
If you are declared as a Greek tax payer then you need to add up all your receipts and include this in your folder together with the receipts in date order.

The folder needs to be given to your Greek accountant or to your representative at the beginning of the year.

NOTE: You need to keep in regular contact with your accountant or tax representative in order to ensure that you have timely receipt of any tax bills that need to be paid, failing this when you do get them you will be fined for late payment of each bill! This is YOUR responsibility.

Greek Road Tax 2012

2011-12-01T10:32:00.000+02:00

Car Road tax bills are being delivered slowly but surely, please note that the road tax needs to be paid by the end of the year!!!!

If you fail to do this you will pay double.

If you don't receive your road tax bill or cant remember which Greek address receives it, then you go to the tax office in kalamata to the 1st floor with your ID and car papers and pay there. There will be a queue but rather than pay double if you miss the pay by date, go early and give yourself time to wait to pay.

You must remember to contact on a regular basis your Greek mailing address for tax related matters, be it your agent, your tax representative, friend or lawyer. You can then arrange for them to either post it to you or for you to pick up from their offices.

Property tax on Electricity Bill (Haratsi)

2011-11-17T11:40:00.001+02:00

The above outlined in red, shows the property tax payable for your property! The amount is shown in total but then underneath it has a payment of 50% which is the first installment. The second installment is expected on the next electricity bill. This total amount is for the year 2011.

It has to be paid because the electricity company has been given instructs to cut off electricity supply if not paid. If you miss the pay by date, then the property tax has to be paid at the tax office!

All sellers of property please note that if you sold your property this year and all depending which month you sold, the property tax either all or part is your responsibility.

All sellers who are in the process of actually selling your property, please ensure that the full amount of the property tax is paid up in full (Electricity Company Offices or Town Hall) and present the receipt to your lawyer or agent to include in the final property file for the new owner.

Anyone renting property please note that you can pay the bill and deduct the property tax from your monthly rental payment, or make arrangements for the landlord to pay the amount! Normally easier if you do it and deduct from the rent paid to landlord.

Any property owner who pays their bills via direct debit please ensure that you do not have a maximum amount permitted on your direct debit order because it will mean that if your electricity bill (with the inclusion of the property tax) is over this limit then the bank will not pay! And, you will have your electricity supply cut off! The time limit before cut off order goes in to the system is now 80 days!

This article is guideline only and was edited on 6 Dec 2011

Legalizing various parts of built property

2011-10-26T10:24:00.003+03:00

Now is the time to start legalizing those covered verandahs, basement areas which are living areas, storage sheds, covered parking and enclosed verandahs that most of the built property in Greece has.

You need to contact your civil engineer and provide him/her with a complete folder for the property:

Building permit
Relevant plans relating to the permit (all with planning authorities stamp on them)
Copy of your E9 form (speak to your accountant) which shows declaration of the property in your name at the tax office
Copy of your ID - passports
Your Greek tax number and tax office

The engineer will need to come to the property and take relevant photos and also measure up what the m2 is that needs legalizing.

Electronic file submitted and an elecontric number given.

Payment of the deposit to the relevant bank account.

Your engineer will give you a breakdown of costs including the engineers fee which is relatively high.

If you also have additional m2 built on your land that is not shown on the building permit - you need to legalize this NOW rather than later.

REMINDER: No transfer of built property will be allowed without an Engineers Declaration stating that all is in accordance with the building permit.

New Tax (Receipts) card

2011-10-03T11:41:00.000+03:00

Makes interesting reading, I don't think many people will actually rush to get them unless it becomes obligatory! Makes life easier in the sense that all your purchases are recorded on the SIM and can be downloaded in to the official records, but this would mean that you would not have control of the amounts spent showing. Whereas, if you collect your receipts and organize them and write all the details down in order to submit with your tax declaration you can control the amount of expenditure that you show.

This is only for permanent residents in Greece i.e. you show that your permanent residence is Greece.

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_wsite2_1_01/10/2011_408918

Facts about the property tax

2011-10-03T11:35:00.002+03:00

Article from Kathimerini (English) paper

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_wsite2_1_25/09/2011_407928

New laws concerning built property

2011-10-03T09:04:00.001+03:00

People are asking questions about the new laws for building and for built property, at this moment in time the Government Gazette should be out but a lot of lawyers and engineers have not finished reading through it to see what has been published and the format requirements for new paperwork.

My friendly surveyor advises that all topographics must be double checked even those issued last year.

As for built property - any grey zones in your property (loft area, basement turned in to living space, storerooms, covered verandahs, closed in verandahs, dscrepanies in size of building) need to be sorted NOW. From now on any transfer of property needs to have a declaration from the owner and the engineer that the building is as the building permit. If you have any grey zones on your property contact you engineer/not builder and arrange for the necessary paperwork to be prepared and submitted in order to pay the fines and have the right to these grey zones for the next 30-40 years.

The above procedure does NOT cover buildings that are in the wrong position or place!

I am not an engineer or a lawyer, I just provide bits of information that come my way. If you have a problem with your built property you need to contact a surveyor and/or lawyer.

Next Year's Budget?!

2011-09-19T16:01:00.002+03:00

An interesting article giving an idea of what the Budget in 2012 might hold for us

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_wsite2_1_18/09/2011_406922

Income Tax UK or Greece

2011-09-16T17:39:00.002+03:00

Again this site gives you an incite, alot of people visit my office and ask me what they should do - show permanent residence in the UK or permanent residence in Greece? I am not an accountant therefore I cannot advise you on what to do or what not to do. A Greek accountant can advise you on the tax laws of Greece, so the link talks about what is allowed and what is not allowed if you declare yourself non-resident in the UK; unless there is a double taxation agreement with other country all you can do is what the site advises.

I would class this a very necessary read for all who have property in Greece and in the UK

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/Taxes/LeavingOrComingIntoTheUK/DG_078445

European Health Card and other things

2011-09-16T17:31:00.002+03:00

I believe this site is a very very important stop for anyone wanting to travel within Europe for any length of time, or might be staying in Europe to get a taste of life before making a major decision - The European Health card that you can be issued with in the UK is valid for 5 years, so... it might make things simpler for UK nationals staying here for a while.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Foreigntravel/BeforeYouTravel/DG_4019496

Setting city limits for a more sustainable future

2011-09-15T19:15:00.001+03:00

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_wsite1_1_13/09/2011_406163

Soft and hard default scenarios draw closer for Greece

2011-09-15T19:13:00.003+03:00

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_wsite2_1_04/09/2011_404816

Ekathimerini.com - Article on Homes built without permit

2011-09-15T19:11:00.003+03:00

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_wsite1_1_14/09/2011_406389

Transfer of built property

2011-09-15T18:58:00.001+03:00

New measures which we are waiting on exactly how things will proceed, but something that was obvious would come about sooner or later.

In order for a transfer of built property to be completed all building must be legal!

Any built property which is declared as before 1955 is exempt
Any built property which is declared with the 1983 law is exempt

Applications for illegalities in a building such as covered verandahs, closed in verandahs, basement/storerooms and garages can be submitted and a fine paid which will cover the illegalities for a 40 year period.

Builds before 2003 are cheaper than after 2003.

Anyone selling their built property must have all building shown on their topographic diagram and the diagram will be stamped and signed by the surveyor stating that it is exactly as the Planning Office approved permit plans.

This means that from this day onwards all owners of built property must ensure that they have their complete file for their building - building permit with all relevant plans showing the stamp of the planning authorities. The owner of the property with the building permit number (do not take your copy of building permit with you) can make an application at the Planning offices of Kalamata and get the folder bought up (3-5 days) take the paperwork and copy, return to get the originals and your copies checked, stamped and then you return the originals to the first office.

Should this be a bit time consuming or difficult for you to undertake then please contact our offices for either a consultation on the matter (reasonable consultation fee) and should you wish we can under the planning office chore for you. Sarah McKellen Tel 27210 80093

Buying or Selling Land

2011-09-15T18:49:00.002+03:00

Had a meeting today with my friendly and very informative topographic surveyor, Thanassis Stavropoulos.

This information should be seriously noted by buyers and sellers of land alike

Areas which need to have topographic diagrams double checked before proceeding with a purchase are:

Kalamata area, certain areas in the town, Asprohoma, Sperhogia, Antikalamos, Mikres Mantineas, Verga

With changes that are going on with the building zones and build ratios it is absolutely necessary that you double check with a topographic surveyor that the land you want to buy or sell is actually what you believe it to be.

Messinis - all areas around Messini including Madena, Draxoneri, Analipsi and Mavromati since these areas are consider "high cultivation area" - anyone looking to buy land in these areas again must ensure that the topographic they check is one drawn up using the Greek Surveying System and in some cases the seller of the land must ensure that they provide certification from the Ministry of Agriculture that the land is NOT classed in the high cultivation zone.

Here it should be noted that it is highly advised to have a new topographic diagram drawn up of your land/building plot which must be ΕΓΣΑ (Greek Surveying System) and signed and stamped by the surveyor that it is indeed buildable or not as the case might be.

Areas of Natura are Mani, Methoni, Pylos and Gialova (any land outside the building zone including land which is located within the 500-800m zone of a village) - again with the Greek Surveying System Topographic diagram you can independantly double check that the land does not fall within a Natura zone.

Thanassis Stavropoulos is a registered topographic surveyor and surveyor, his offices are located in Kalamata near to the Courthouses. Phone number 27210 97001

E.T.A.K. - Single Tax on Real Estate

2011-09-15T18:37:00.001+03:00

Over the last couple of years people who own real estate, land or building, have been receiving a year ETAK bill via the Greek tax office.

The new austerity measures now dictate that this 'tax' will be added on to our electricity bills - we pay a percentage of council rates and TV/Radio licence already on this bill and the government has decided that in order to gather the real estate taxes it is easier for all for it to be added to the electricity bill, no payment of this tax will mean that power is cut off.

The rates for the real estate tax will be zoned and the amount per m2 will range from 0,50 Euro up to 10 Euro.

When and how this will go in to effect I have not heard, but as soon as I do it will be posted on the blog.

Update 16/9/2011

Tharros local newspaper had a 2 page spread with examples of the tax to be paid, makes interesting reading but will take me some time to translate in to spreadsheet form to upload here!

2011-09-12T12:35:00.003+03:00

NEW AUSTERITY MEASURES - via the English version of Kathimerini on-line newspaper

Greek National Health System - Orthopedic

2011-06-03T12:33:00.000+03:00

The Greek National Health System – personal experience

I have been living in Greece since the beginning of 1981 and back then you had to get to the IKA offices around 5am in order to queue to get a number to see a doctor; all great fun and part of the ‘charm’ of living in Greece.

Over the years the system improved to the extent that you could actually book an appointment and then just turn up in time for it, barring doctor being away due to sickness/emergency or on strike.

Back in 1986 when I was still living and working in Athens I had a knee injury which had to be operated on. Basically I had started with a dislocated knee which was then wrapped in bandage for 2 weeks and then removed at the KAT hospital in outpatients. The bright young doctor removed the bandage and then took my leg and bent it!!! Resulting in me then going in to cast for 4 weeks, then some physio and then a programmed op – torn ligaments etc. I was not amused.

Things being as they still are here in Greece; it is who you know and not what you know. I was lucky to have as my neighbour a top Children’s orthopedic doctor who told me to get myself in to a hospital for an op. My IKA orthopedic doctor was from Cyprus (speaking excellent English) and made sure that I got admitted to a smaller hospital in Athens rather than the huge monstrosity called KAT. It happened that the head of the orthopedic department was friends with my neighbour!

Being in hospital was an experience to say the least, but I had my op, lived mainly on boxes of chocolate (the food was disgusting) and was allowed out to fend for myself with a cast on my leg and a pair of crutches. Six weeks later I went back to have the cast removed and discovered to my horror that I had a huge scar running 28cm down my leg! I was not amused but learnt to live with it! At least I still had my leg.

Over the years I have had very little to do with doctors and very lucky I have been too until this year.

Jan 1^st found me in UK visiting my family for Xmas and New Year. New Year’s Eve was an opportunity to go out on the town with one of my sisters and we decided to go dancing! 1230am (New Year’s Day) I suddenly find myself flat on my back on the dance floor with a broken wrist. My first and hopefully last experience with UK A&E although very surreal and entertaining, I was evaluated by a nurse; just asking a couple of questions, sent off for an x-ray, evaluated by a doctor and then back to the same nurse to put a temporary cast on the wrist! During this whole procedure not once was my arm examined!!!

Back to Greece and the OAEE orthopedic doctor who just looked at me and told me to get myself up to Kalamata hospital to have a cast put on! He didn’t examine my arm. I booked an appointment at out-patients Kalamata hospital with the orthopedic doctor and off I went. The doctor looked at the x-ray and looked at the temporary cast “You will have to have a proper cast put on”, “OK can I have a plastic cast rather than plaster of Paris?” I ask. “Sure you can, go across the road and buy the materials and bring it back here and I shall put it on”. Of I go and get the goods and he puts it on in a rather odd fashion but then who am I to argue since I certainly have spent 7 years of my life studying to be a doctor!!!

The following 4 weeks of wearing a cast where painful day and night the whole length of my arm; visiting the OAEE orthopedic doctor for advise was, so I know now, totally useless. I would go to see him and explain that I was in pain, day and night, “Oh it’s nothing” he would say each time – no examination of the arm!!!

February 16^th the cast was removed by another orthopedic doctor at Kalamata hospital. I was in pain and could not lay my arm straight nor could I hold it in the position that they needed it to be in order to cut the cast! Nothing was said. My arm came out the cast and it looked awful – bright red with pressure/burn marks, swollen and shiny. I looked at it and then at the doctor and said “Is this alright?” – “nothing wrong with it” was the reply. “Do I need physio?” I asked tentatively “No just soak it every day in warm water and do some exercise” was the response. I left! At no point during this appointment was my arm examined.

March and April saw me doing physio for the hand which was not looking good, but I was also in great pain day and night. My physiotherapist did not like the look of my hand nor the pain that I was having down the whole arm and in the shoulder. So back I went to the OAEE orthopedic doctor who got cross that the physiotherapist was worried about a problem in my upper arm and shoulder as well as the hand.

To now cut a long story short; I ended up visiting 2 private orthopedic doctors. The first one said enthusiastically that I had frozen shoulder syndrome and that for 500 Euro he would manipulate the shoulder and I would be 100% ok after that! I then went to a 2^nd private orthopedic doctor who sent me out for x-ray of the hand and diagnosed Sudek Atrophy in the bones and confirmed that I had frozen shoulder syndrome but sent me for a MRI to see what was going on with the tendons; turned out one of the tendons was torn in the shoulder originating from the fall at the beginning of the year! During all this I had a battle of wills with the OAEE orthopedic doctor whose ego was bruised and was refusing to write me all the tests that I needed; I had to resort to taking my ‘better half’ along with me for him to immediately change his attitude.

I am now on the mend, a cortisone injection in the shoulder and physio is helping and I shall hit the sea at some point for a summer course of seawater therapy for shoulder, wrist and hand.

What horrifies me the most was that within the health system I came across 3 incompetent doctors! If they had done a hands on examination in the UK or here when I got back 3 days later I would not be writing this.

It just goes to show that we simple folk need to read up on things so as to understand if we are consulting with professionals or with incompetents.

The video below is dedicated to the orthopedic doctor at Kalamata hospital (who speaks good English because he studied there!).

Censor 10-24 May 2011

2011-05-10T08:56:00.000+03:00

From today the 10th May to 24th May the Greek censor will be done which means houses will be visited and questionaires filled in.

Perscriptions via IKA and other health insurance groups

2011-04-14T10:57:00.000+03:00

As from May 2nd there will be a lot of perscriptions which, when you go to pharmarcy to fill, will have to be paid for in full. You will then submit relevant paperwork to the IKA offices for partial reimbursement! Ask your doctor when he/she writes you a prescription so that you are mentally and physically prepared!

Living Abroad - Information from the UK Foreign Office

2011-04-05T20:16:00.000+03:00

A good link and makes interesting reading for UK nationals making a decision to move abroad.

http://www.fco.gov.uk/resources/en/pdf/2855621/going-to-live-abroad

Self Employment Stamp, Greece - OAEE

2011-04-04T12:20:00.000+03:00

I came across this blog which will make very interesting for anyone who is paying the exhorbitate OAEE (Greek self employment stamp) and has to deal with the very unprofessional and in some case 'down right rude' behaviour from the employees in the local OAEE offices.

Ψάχνοντας βρήκα ένα website για τον ΟΑΕΕ που μου φαίνεται ενδιαφέρον και θα ήθελα να σας το προτείνω

http://www.epaggelmatiesoaee.net/

Flights in and out of Kalamata 2011

2011-03-31T19:52:00.000+03:00

Agean Air commences Kalamata-Athens route again on 14 April, while the Kalamata-Thessaloniki route continues as it has throughout the winter.

Air Berlin with 2 flights per week connecting Kalamata with Berlin, Dusseldorf, Nuremberg and Hamburg in Germany and Vienna in Austria.

A new route starts connecting Kalamata to Moscow from 28 May.

Tor Air will fly London to Kalamata and flights continue for the summer season from Manchester (UK), Amsterdam (Netherlands), Praga (Czech Republic) and Oslo (Norway)

Tax information dated June 2008 - Residents Abroad

2011-02-25T12:01:00.000+02:00

Go to the 6th item on the list - tax information for residents abroad fated June 2008 in English

http://www.gsis.gr/forologikos_odigos/xrisimes_plirofories/genikes_plirofories/genikes_plirofories.html

Tax information - useful information

2011-02-25T11:55:00.000+02:00

Useful information via the tax office website : a couple of the documents are in English

http://www.gsis.gr/teloneia/xrisimes_plirofories_teloneia/plirofories.html

ZARA

2011-02-25T09:23:00.000+02:00

Tharros News 25 Feb 2011

The economic crisis might have closed 10s of businesses in Kalamata and threatens many others with closure but that does not rule out the fact that others consider it the 'golden opportunity' to enlargen their business. Zara owned by the Spanish group Inditex is opening a store on Aristomenous high street (next to the cultural centre); work has commenced on preparing the shop space.

Bershka, also belongs to the group, and a store was opened last year again on Aristomenous opposite the court house.

Motorway and Kalamata By-pass

2011-02-25T09:11:00.000+02:00

Tharros Newspaper 25 Feb 2011

During the year 2011 the motorway will be completed up to Sperhogeia. Work is to commence on the Kalamata by-pass which should be completed within 2013.

Planning Authorities

2011-02-11T10:48:00.000+02:00

The new law is in place allowing undeclared m2 use of house space to be legalized; therefore now is the time to legalize! Protect your investment and contact your civil engineer.

It is possible that land with 35%+ gradient will not get planning permission, so take this into consideration when looking at land.

It is possible that the 'outside build zone' size of land requirements will change, so if you have land off 4000m2-10000m2 it is advisable that you contact your civil engineer for advise on this and make haste in applying for planning permission - again protect your investment.

The above is to be considered as guideline information and friendly advice.

IKA Doctors - strike to continue

2011-02-07T12:28:00.000+02:00

IKA doctors continue to strike. Government allows IKA patients to use OAEE doctors

http://www.ika.gr/gr/infopages/news/20110204.cfm

The above link takes you to IKA site and pdf file with list of doctors (in Greek) - phone first before visiting.

Hospital Doctors

2011-02-03T09:47:00.001+02:00

are on strike today - very last minute, and could continue!

IKA doctors

2011-02-03T09:44:00.001+02:00

were on strike yesterday and continue today, might be longer so check if you have made an appointment.

Athens Public Transport

2011-02-03T09:42:00.001+02:00

has been striking on and off for the last couple of days and seems that this will continue!

Kalamata Central Post Office

2011-02-03T09:40:00.000+02:00

was robbed at gunpoint during the morning working hours on 1st Feb. No one was hurt and the masked gunmen ran off with 2000 euros!!!

Golf Complex Pylos

2011-02-03T09:37:00.000+02:00

The creator of the golf complex in Pylos, Capt. Basili Konstantakopoulos, passed away end of January 2011.

Pharmacies - strike

2011-01-25T12:54:00.002+02:00

Last week the pharmacies were on strike for 3 days and we have another 3 days of striking this week from 26-29 Jan. Luckily this does not seem to be the case Mani side, last Thursday I managed to fill my perscription in Kardamili!

GREEN CERTIFICATES - MORE INFORMATION

2011-01-11T13:35:00.000+02:00

Mr. Nikolakopoulos kindly returned my call -

All residential property to be sold must have energy certification.

you book an appointment with inspector for your area, providing complete copy of building file (plans, permit) and copy of electric bill, heating costs and type of heating.

Time span for issuance is not determined at this moment due to heavy workload, inspector prepares report and then sends it off up to ministry for approval and issuance.

All property for rent must also have certification but we have a 6-month extension on this.

GREEN CERTICATE - COST OF

2011-01-11T11:39:00.000+02:00

The minimum fees of energy inspectors established by Presidential Decree as follows:
Apartments-For 2.46 euros per square meter with a minimum fee of EUR 185.
-For homes 1.85 euros per square meter with a minimum of 246 euros.
For whole-residential buildings 1.23 euros per square meter with a minimum of 246 euros.
-For commercial and other non-residential space 3.07euros per square meter with a minimum of 369 euros.

For buildings over 1000m2 additional square meterage charged 1.85 euro / m2

INSPECTORS - MESSINIA - GREEN CERTIFICATES

2011-01-11T11:16:00.000+02:00

ΝΙΚΟΛΑΚΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ ΠΕΡΙΚΛΗΣ -        Nikolakopoulos Pericles
ΓΕΩΡΓΟΥΛΗ 15 & ΣΠΥΡΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ 15 , Georgouli 15 & Spiropoulou 15
ΔΗΜΟΣ ΚΑΛΑΜΑΤΑΣ                            Kalamata
Tel. 27210 89033 , 20412
Email: nperiklis@teemail.gr

ΣΠΗΛΙΩΤΗΣ ΙΩΑΝΝΗΣ - Spiliotis Ioannis
ΘΕΜΙΣΤΟΚΛΕΟΥΣ 53 ,       Themistokleous 53
ΔΗΜΟΣ ΚΑΛΑΜΑΤΑΣ         Kalamata
Tel: 2721094464
Email: spiliotis@teemail.gr

Guideline fees to follow ASAP

GREEN - ENERGY CERTFICATES

2011-01-11T11:10:00.000+02:00

Not a good translation but will inform you. I am still gathering info, so please don't bombard me with questions just yet, I heard about it yesterday on the news!!!!

Athens, 28.12.2010

PRESS RELEASE - Clarification POMIDA INSTRUCTIONS:

TRANSACTIONS FOR WHICH BE NOT ISSUE energy certificates (EPC)

In connection with the obligation to issue energy performance certificate (EPC), following the publication of Circular 2279/22.12.2011 YPEKA the "Clarifications to the proper implementation of KENAK», o Association of Realtors Athens inform its members and all interested parties that the obligation to issue EPC force 09.01.1911 for all transactions, and new leases of entire buildings.For leases parts of buildings (ie, individual ownership of apartments, shops, offices, etc.) the obligation to issue EPC postponed for one semester and will take effect from 7.9.1911.

Remain unresolved and call for direct regulation of the following major problems:

1. The general postponement of the implementation of all measures beyond the 01/09/2011, if during the day, it seems, there is no procedural power to issue EPC across the country to avoid the risk of obstruction of all transactions (buying, selling leases).

2. The explicit exclusion of all small properties (parts of buildings) area of 50 m

3. The removal of an unacceptable system of minimum wages Act. inspectors (art. 10 Decree 100/2010), in the forthcoming abolition of the minimum wage engineers etc..

Further, the status issue energy certificates (EPC) is as follows:

A. Transfers of property.

In paragraph3 of Article 14 of KENAK provides that "Every notary for a transaction to purchase the property required in the contract indicating the number of the ARC and attach a certified copy of this FSP..

This obligation exists for all transfer deeds buildings covering a total area exceeding 50 m drawn up by January 9, 2011 onwards, the whole, and individual properties, except for stores and parking spaces.

Since the requirement for a license are permanently excluded from the following categories of contracts transferring real rights:

1. Transfers of any land (land and land) without buildings.

2.Transfers demolition of old buildings, which are exempted from transfer tax under compulsory demolition within six months of signing the contract

3. Transfers of listed or historic buildings.

4. Distributions of jointly owned property with buildings.

5. Exchanges of land with buildings.

6. Parental benefits, donations, remuneration heritage property with buildings.

7. Recommendations horizontal property existing or future buildings.

8. Transfers of buildings or parts of buildings and housing constructionindustries, laboratories, paraskefastiria services, a significant electromechanical equipment.This category includes, inter alia, plants, craft plants, maintenance workshops and repair vehicles, paints, carpentry, the paraskefastiria food, dry cleaner, the ironing, washing machine package, the independent computer centers andcutting research and education, refineries and power plants.

9. Transfers of buildings or parts of buildings or construction used for storage of goods, storage facilities or housing animals.This category includes, inter alia, general stores, farm stores, port hangars, warehouses stores (and housing), stores, museums, museum storerooms, stables, cow, pig, poultry, etc.

10.Transfers of buildings or parts of buildings or construction of car parking, two or three, petrol stations and car washes.

B. Property Leases.

In paragraph3 of Article 14 of KENAK also provides that "... In any lease, the registration number of the EPC must be given in private or notarial lease document. The tax authority does not consider leasing documents if no such Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)..

As a "rental property" means any rental property with buildings drawn up for the first time since the days of validity of the device to a new tenant is installed for the first time in the lease.

This obligation exists for leases of entire buildings, total area exceeding 50 mdrawn up by January 9, 2011 onwards. On July 9, 2011 this requirement will be extended to lease parts of buildings (eg, individual apartments, shops, offices, etc.), but again warehouses and car parking spaces.

Since the requirement for a license are permanently excluded from the following categories of leases relating to properties with or without buildings, namely:

1. Leases any land (land and land) without buildings.

2.Extensions - renewals of existing leases with the same current tenant.

3. Amendments to existing lease terms (eg reductions paid rent).

4. Leases of buildings or parts of buildings and housing constructionindustries, laboratories, paraskefastiria services, a significant electromechanical equipment.This category includes, inter alia, plants, craft plants, maintenance workshops and repair vehicles, paints, carpentry, the paraskefastiria food, dry cleaner, the ironing, washing machine package, the independent computer centers andcutting research and education, refineries and power plants.

5. Leases of buildings or parts of buildings or construction used for storage of goods, storage facilities or housing animals.This category includes, inter alia, general stores, farm stores, port hangars, warehouses stores (and house), the museum storerooms, stables, cow, pig, poultry, etc.

6.Leases of buildings or parts of buildings or construction of car parking, two or three, petrol stations and car washes.

A glass of festive cheer at MMP!

2010-12-17T19:57:00.000+02:00

Snow!

2010-12-17T19:32:00.000+02:00

Whoever said that you don't need heating in the S. Peloponesse...

The day started cold and dry with a little sun and then suddenly freezing rain was falling! Much to my surprise I discovered snow on the nearby mountains and took a photo from my neighbourhood (Agia Triada Kalamata).

I have put the heating on the last 3 evenings but for sure this evening it will be on longer than normal! Brrrrrrrrrrr hotwater bottle weather!

A little Christmas (Greek) Humour

2010-12-14T19:18:00.000+02:00

This is via a Greek/English friend

No Christmas this year in Greece!

The birth is postponed!

Joseph must pay for the closure of the tax year but he hasn't enough,
......
the Manger is under process to be declared as semioutdoor by the urban inspectors;

Mary is not accredited to take birth grants,

The Angels do not fly because of a strike of the air traffic controllers and

The 3 wise men fear being deported as illegal immigrants!

Music School of Kalamata - Christmas Concert

2010-12-14T19:13:00.000+02:00

The Cultural Centre - Aristomenous Street - Kalamata

Thursday 16th December 2010 @ 9pm

Christmas Shopping Hours

2010-12-14T19:10:00.000+02:00

As from Monday 13th December the shops will be open every morning and every afternoon (Mon-Fri) and they will also be open Saturday until 3pm and Sunday until around 3pm.

Hairdressers, normally closed on Mondays, will also be open during the Christmas/New Year.

25th/26th December CLOSED

1st/2nd/3rd January 2011 CLOSED

NEW TAX LAWS 2010

2010-12-14T19:06:00.000+02:00

NEW TAX LAWS for tax year 2010
– an interview with Yannis Mavreas, accountant – his translation & interpretations
- with additional comments/clarifications and some history by Shelley Manolea
*and there still could be mistakes here in interpretation – if found please let me know ASAP

AS OF 1 JAN 2011 – all tax forms must be filed electronically. If you have given your accountant an authorization to be your tax representative, and if he has not already applied for this code, he might be able to arrange the codes necessary.

Authorizations to be your tax representative can only be done for non-permanent residents, because permanent residents do not have a tax representative.

Authorizations can be witnessed at the KEP office, therefore if you have the document to sign, you can have it witnessed for no money at all (different from a power of attorney).

IF YOU ARE A PERMANENT RESIDENT – YOU WILL PROBABLY HAVE TO GO WITH YOUR ACCOUNTANT TO THE TAX OFFICE TO OBTAIN/SIGN PAPERWORK, BECAUSE HE CANNOT BE YOUR REPRESENTATIVE TO SIGN THAT PAPERWORK FOR YOU.
********************************************************
NOTES: WAYS THAT YOU MIGHT LEARN MORE & SAVE MORE BY NOT PAYING FINES BECAUSE YOU HAVE THE PROPER DOCUMENTATION

DEADLINES FOR TAX DECLARATIONS ARE GETTING MUCH MORE STRICT – while date is unknown – make plans to have all your paperwork gathered. Every year, you should plan on talking to your accountant and find out what papers are needed and have them to your accountant before April. Also, remember – the earlier you talk with your accountant after the more time he has to explain to you and you might not have to wait in line to see your accountant.

BUT THIS YEAR - YOU MIGHT BE ABLE TO AVOID FINES IF YOU HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE AND CAN TAKE ACTION IN THE 2010 CALENDAR YEAR.

It is assumed that the filing of tax forms to be filled out by individuals will probably stop- because of the mandatory electronic system. This signal for foreigners to see their accountant WILL PROBABLY NOT HAPPEN IF THE GOVERNMENT WANTS TO AVOID THAT EXPENSE. This next year will be difficult for the accountants in that the changes are so extensive and decisions might have to be made about filing. Many, many people will need explanations or second appointments to gather more papers – which just means longer lines for all.

THE MAJORITY OF PEOPLE WITH PROPERTY HERE THAT HAVE BEEN HERE QUITE A FEW YEARS WILL PROBABLY NOT HAVE THE AMOUNT OF INFAMOUS “PINK PAPERS” NECESSARY. FOR THE TAX YEAR 2010 – ONLY PAPERWORK FROM THE BANK FOR 2010 WILL BE ACCEPTED.

*definitions for tax purposes –
PERMANENT RESIDENTS – Obviously Greeks, and foreigners that have CLAIMED PERMANENT RESIDENCE ON THEIR TAX FORMS -   By law any foreigner who is residing in Greece for more than 3 months is required to obtain a permanent residence permit from the police (a relatively easy procedure). Many people obtained this permit which gave them the right to buy a vehicle. But they might not have continued to live here – therefore not necessitating changes in their Greek tax status.

NON-PERMANENT RESIDENTS: Greeks that own property and claim their permanent residence abroad and foreigners that have not claimed permanent residence on their tax forms.

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RENTING

In the past, all homeowners who rented their property needed to claim that income, and it was necessary that this was declared at the tax office within 10 days of signing. STARTING IN THE TAX YEAR 2010, ALL RENTERS MUST CLAIM THE AMOUNT OF RENT THEY PAY ON A TAX DECLARATION. ANYONE FILING A TAX FORM MUST ALSO HAVE A GREEK TAX NUMBER.

“LONG-TERM RENTERS” – this term is legally meant to mean those with a LEGAL long-term contract of three months or more. Legal long-term renters have a contract with the owner of the property that is registered with the tax authorities. Legal long-term renters must have a Greek tax number AND MUST FILE A TAX DECLARATION that has proof of legally imported funds for paying their rent and living in Greece

i.e., if a non-permanent resident wants to rent out their property – there still needs to be a paper trail of where that LEGAL income originated.
ASSUMPTION: this legal income is also proof of funds needed to maintain property.
SUGGESTION TO RENTERS/ HOMEOWNERS THAT RENT: TALK WITH AN ACCOUNTANT

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MORTGAGES

A MORTGAGE IN GREECE MUST BE REPORTED ON YOUR TAX FORM – AND THEREFORE PROOF OF WHERE THE FUNDS CAME FROM.

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PROOF OF FUNDS – imported or from those working in Greece
or the infamous “pink papers”

For all building projects or larges purchases (property/house/boats/cars/helicopters/ airplanes, proof of income that financed the purchase/project is necessary. This has not changed.

This year purchase of motorcycles of 300 cc or more, etc., proof of income that financed the purchase is necessary.

Permanent residents, owners or renters, be they Greek or foreigners, have to prove their income that has supported them IN GREECE and is demonstrated on their tax declaration in Greece. If a foreigner resides here, then their income should be generated here. An exception is a pension.
*There must be an exception for an extremely wealthy foreigner that doesn’t need to work – but I haven’t researched how wealthy one would have to be.).

A permanent resident (that is not a pensioner) cannot claim imported money (pink papers) as income.

PROOF OF FUNDS
in the form of the INFAMOUS “PINK PAPERS”

Non-permanent residents import funds from their country of work, and the old term of “pink papers” (as these forms were colored pink) is still often used to describe the forms given by the bank on exchange.

It used to be you could also import foreign funds when you entered the country by making a declaration with the Customs office at point of entry, and then when doing a legal exchange of currency at a bank and presenting the customs declaration, you would receive the “pink paper”. THIS LAW IS PART OF HISTORY AND NO LONGER VALID AS A WAY OF IMPORTING MONEY.

At same time in modern history – pink papers use to be valid – FOREVER.
Then at one time they were only good for a few years.
Then the government started reducing the value of credits on these PINK PAPERS every year and stating that it was “living expenses” – so soon the value was no good.

At one time – you could go back 10 years or more and re-file your tax form and include those old pink papers that were never filed when purchasing a home. This was used by people who had never filed that they had purchased a property (house or vehicle) and eventually realized that had erred.

Now you can go back, re-file, and pay the refilling/late fees for only a few years on “pink papers”.
Someone might have imported money in the last few years and needs to go to the bank and obtain this paperwork – if the amount of money is substantial enough that this doesn’t cost more than what the original tax would be without them.

FINE ON LATE FILING – here is another situation of strange but true – it depends on what tax office you do your filing. Kalamata tax office has a fine of 120€ for filing late. However, if paid immediately – the fine is usually reduced to approximately 40€. In other parts of the country, the fine could be 200€, and might be reduced to 100€.

****************************************
BANKING

At this time, importing funds to a EURO bank account is necessary. PLEASE MAKE YOUR LIFE UNCOMPLICATED – AND MAKE SURE THAT THE NAMES ON THAT ACCOUNT ARE ONLY THE NAMES OF THE PROPERTY OWNERS ON TITLES. Any extra names (spouses/children/friends with access to the account will reduce your amount of money that you can claim on that imported money into that bank account. If necessary – open another bank account with those names on it that IS NOT receiving IMPORTED FUNDS.

SUGGESTION: FOR ALL NON PERMANENT RESIDENTS THAT RENT (explained below with new laws), OR OWN PROPERTY THAT MUST BE DECLARED ON THE TAX FORM – PLEASE IMPORT YOUR MONEY THROUGH THE INTERNATIONAL BANKING SYSTEM. USE OF ATM MACHINES OR BRINGING IN LARGE SUMS OF CASH WHEN COMING INTO THE COUNTRY DOES NOT GIVE YOU THE NECESSARY PROOF OF IMPORTED FUNDS. At the same time, we must inform you that you might import a slightly larger sum of money to assure yourselves that you have enough funds available and the cash ATM is avoided. You might not   use it all - because of a shortened vacation? Because there were no emergencies or you couldn’t get the work done? There is no law that says you cannot take that cash home with you.

IF YOU HAVE A GREEK BANK ACCOUNT AND YOU FEEL YOU MUST USE THE ATM MACHINE – YOU CAN RECEIVE A CARD FROM A LOCAL BANK TO USE FOR YOUR FUNDS THAT WERE IMPORTED.

PLEASE REMEMBER – THE NEW LAWS ARE NOT AIMED AT FOREIGNERS – THESE LAWS WERE DEVELOPED TO TRY TO STOP THE BLACK MARKET IN GREECE. The “pink papers” or PROOF OF IMPORTED FUNDS for foreign permanent residents prove that you are a foreign permanent resident with legal funds to care for your property and not using funds from the black market.

***********************************************
WHO ELSE MUST FILE A DECLARATION?

ALL PEOPLE WHO OWN PROPERTY THAT HAS ANY BUILDING WORK STARTED MUST DO TAX FILING FOR THE YEAR 2010, OR HOUSE FINISHED, OR THAT HAS MORE THAN 50 OLIVE TREES.

All people have always had to file a tax form on purchase and if building, every year during the building process as well as a declaration at completion. Not filing means unnecessary fines later on (when trying to obtain permanent electricity, or even worse, years later when trying to sell or someone inherits the property.

In the past, those people who owned a small house (and the definition of the amount of square meters has changed over the years) did not have to file a tax declaration after the first year of declaration.

BUT WE HAVE ALWAYS RECOMMENDED STILL CONTACTING YOUR ACCOUNTANT EVERY YEAR BECAUSE SOMETIMES ANOTHER FORM HAS TO BE FILED. Some people might have some amounts left over from old “pink papers” that were filed and can still be used – your accountant will be able to clarify that.

***********************************************
IF YOU HAVE A GREEK BANK ACCOUNT AND YOU FEEL YOU MUST USE THE ATM MACHINE – YOU CAN RECEIVE A CARD FROM A LOCAL BANK TO USE FOR YOUR FUNDS THAT WERE IMPORTED.

PLEASE REMEMBER – THE NEW LAWS ARE NOT AIMED AT FOREIGNERS – THESE LAWS WERE DEVELOPED TO TRY TO STOP THE BLACK MARKET IN GREECE. The “pink papers” or PROOF OF IMPORTED FUNDS for foreign permanent residents prove that you are a foreign permanent resident with legal funds to care for your property and not using funds from the black market.

***********************************************

WHO DOES NOT HAVE TO PROVE INCOME?

Tourists? (at least for the time being!)

***************************************************

HOW MUCH INCOME HAS TO BE PROVED FOR MAINTENANCE?

PERMANENT RESIDENTS HAVE TO PROVE INCOME NECESSARY TO MAINTAIN THEIR HOME ON THEIR FIRST RESIDENCE – NO MATTER WHAT SIZE.
*there is no exemption anymore for smaller residences anymore.

PERMANENT OR NON-PERMANENT RESIDENTS WHO OWN A “SECOND HOUSE” IN GREECE:
The Kalamata Tax Office rules that this is usually a second home “in the village” that a Greek has inherited.
The Kalamata Tax Office rules that a non-permanent resident has it assumed that this is their second house since their country of permanent residence has their first residence. THIS IS NOT THE RULING/ASSUMPTION OF ALL TAX OFFICES IN GREECE.
*personally, I have noticed over the years that there are many government offices that have interpretations that vary from one area of Greece to another- and have often stated it seems is as if Kalamata is in a different country!

PERMANENT OR NON-PERMANENT RESIDENTS who own a “holiday house” in Greece
*In the past, a holiday house had to prove maintenance funds for the months of the year that someone was in residence – this no longer applies.

According to Mr. Mavreas, this is deemed by the Kalamata Tax Office to be considered a “third house”. THIS IS NOT THE RULING/ASSUMPTION OF ALL TAX OFFICES IN GREECE. IN SITUATIONS OF THE PAST, THE KALAMATA TAX OFFICE HAS REFUSED TO ACCEPT THIS CLASSIFICATION ON A TAX FORM IF NOT A THIRD HOUSE.

IF THE FORM IS FILED ELECTRONICALLY, THERE ARE RANDOM AUDITS – unfortunately done by the Kalamata office.   FOR SOMEONE TO FILE USING THIS CATEGORY FOR A SECOND HOME RISKS MAJOR TAXES (FINES) from the Kalamata Tax Office that could be much more than what a filing would have been with same information and listing residence as a second home. The major problem is PROVING it is a holiday house. In the past (when all foreigners filed at the Tax Office for foreigners in Athens before 1995), it was easy with the stamping of passports to prove the entry/exit into the country for holidays. But EU citizens cannot prove now that they were in Greece for vacationing short periods of time – because of no passport stamps on leaving Greece for another European Union country. So how can one prove that there was a limited time vacationing in Greece now?

Non-European Union citizens that do not travel to other European countries when on vacation MIGHT BE ABLE TO PROVE THEY WERE HERE FOR SHORT PERIODS OF TIME because of passport stamps. But how short is short?
ACCOUNTANT YANNIS MAVREAS’ RESPONSE: to attempt to use this clause be prepared to pay a much larger tax (fine)!
OR fight it? – I suggest you talk with a lawyer first.

AMOUNTS OF NECESSARY FUND FOR PRIMARY OR SECONDARY RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY:

AMOUNTS OF FUNDS NEEDED FOR MAINTENANCE OF A PROPERTY – IF NOT PROVIDED ON YOUR TAX DECLARATION THERE WILL BE A FINE (there will be an assumption made by the tax authorities of use of black market money for maintenance of property).

UP TO the first 80M2:    +30 €/M2
81-120M2:                               +50 €/M2
121-200M2:                              +80 €/M2
200-300M2                               +150 €/M2
300M2 and up:               +300 €/M2

Auxiliary space: 30 EUROS/M2
This is usually considered to be enclosed space & stated on building permits: i.e., storage rooms, garage or any closed space that is not part of the square meters of living space
(Versus the covered area listed on the permit that is usually a covered verandah)
IF HOUSE IS A SINGLE DWELLING - ADD 20% TO THE TOTAL

EXAMPLE: 150M2 HOUSE WITH 40M2 AUXILARY SPACE

THE FIRST 80M2 = 80M2X30€= 2,400€
PLUS THE NEXT 40M2= 40M2X50€ = 2,000€
PLUS THE NEXT 30M2= 30M2X80M2=2,400€
AUXILARY SPACE 40M2X30€=1,200€

TOTAL: 8,000€
PLUS 20% FOR DETACHED HOUSE = 1,600€

PROOF OF FUNDS NEEDED: 9,600 €

HOLIDAY HOUSE
(half the funds needed for maintenance as compared to a primary or secondary residence)

UP TO the first 80M2:      15 €/M2
81-120M2:                               +25 €/M2
121-200M2:                              +40 €/M2
200-300M2                               +75 €/M2
300M2 and up:               +150 €/M2

Auxiliary space: 15 EUROS/M2
This is usually considered to be enclosed space & stated on building permits: i.e., storage rooms, garage or any closed space that is not part of the square meters of living space
PLUS 20% FOR DETACHED HOUSE

(Versus the covered area listed on the permit that is usually a covered verandah)

POOLS –

UP TO the first 60M2                            100 €/M2
FOR METERS MORE THAN 60M2              +200 €/M2

CARS – PRIVATE USE – NOT COMMERCIAL/FARMING VEHICLES

                                                 UP TO 5 YEARS         5-10 YEARS          10 OR MORE
UP TO 1200cc                                 3000 €                            2100                       1500
1200-2000 cc                               +300 €/100 cc             +210 €/100 cc        +150 €/100 cc
2000-3000 cc                               +500 €/100cc              +350 €/100 cc        +250 €/100 cc
MORE THAN 3000 CC         SEE YOUR ACCOUNTANT – OR BUY A NEW CAR!

RECREATION BOATS (those boats that do not have a fishing business license to sell fish)

                                                UP TO 5 YEARS        5-10 YEARS               10 OR MORE

UP TO 7 METERS                          8,000 €                    6,800 €                         5,600€

MOTORCYCLES

For some reason, there is no proof of maintenance needed on a motorcycle even if over 300 cc.
I wouldn’t expect that to last long – so be prepared when someone at the tax office realizes that there is no table for proof of funds on this item.

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LEGAL TAX RECEIPTS IN GREECE

All permanent resident taxpayers who have income of less than 6,000 Euros do not need to submit expense receipts.

It used to be that many people had a tax-free income of differing amounts in Greece depending on where the money came from. 12,000€ was the maximum tax-free status.

THIS YEAR – ALL PERMANENT RESIDENT TAXPAYERS HAVE 12,000 EUROS OF TAX FREE INCOME.

For those taxpayers to claim their tax free status up to 12,000 Euros, and to keep their tax-free allowance of 12,000 Euros (and therefore have what is called a “reduction” in taxes), they   must submit receipts of 10% of the first 12,000 Euros, and 30% for any income earned above that.

There is a limit of receipts necessary on much larger sums of income – talk with your accountant for specifics if you might fall into that category.

THE AMOUNT OF TAX THAT WOULD BE PAID FOR NOT HAVING NECESSARY RECEIPTS IS NOT YET BEEN DECLARED BY THE GREEK GOVERNMENT.

A non-permanent resident does not have to save receipts.

*********************************************
DON’T HAVE THE NECESSARY PROOF OF LEGAL INCOME?

A permanent resident has TECHNICALLY a tax-free income of 12,000 Euros – BUT anything over 6,000€ requires legal tax receipts saved that proved the money was being spent legally. With the receipts, there is no extra tax (fine). There are situations of permanent residence that claim a low income that might be less than what is necessary for proof of legal funds for maintenance. These tax filers can submit the mandated amount of legal receipts of purchases for up to the amount necessary for the maintenance funds (if less than 12,000) and not have to pay a tax (fine) for maintenance because they are legally tax free until 12,000€.

Example: a pensioner might have income of approx 5,000 Euros. But his old house is assessed at needing 9,000 Euros of maintenance funds. The pensioner submits the necessary receipts for 9,000 Euros – which is 900 Euros of receipts to be submitted. Therefore – TECHNICALLY - no taxes to pay.

*But no where is there specific mention in the new laws of the situation of what happens to the person that might have a 17,000 Euros of maintenance funds to prove. Only with tax cases next year will we know how to if this problem can be solved.

* I find all of this hard to believe but I can understand the logic...   Yannis Mavreas states that he has read this many times in the new laws, so I believe that it is something not noticed by the tax office as a loophole – and might be a loophole soon closed. .

A non-resident has no tax-free income – so this same situation cannot be claimed on their tax form.

TAX for not having legal proof of income is 10% of the money that cannot be proven as income.
i.e., if a total of 10,000 Euros were needed to prove maintenance of home, car, and/or boat, the tax would be 1,000 Euros. IF THIS IS THE FIRST YEAR OF HAVING TO PAY THIS TAX – THAN YOU ALSO HAVE TO PRE-PAY 65% OF NEXT YEAR’S TAX BECAUSE IT IS ASSUMED YOU WILL CONTINUE TO HAVE TO PAY THIS TAX YEARLY. NEXT YEAR – IF ALL STAYED THE SAME, YOU WOULD ONLY PAY A 1,000 EURO TAX.

IF NEXT YEAR, YOU NO LONGER HAVE TO PAY THIS TAX, YOU CAN THAN GET A REFUND OF THIS MONEY FROM THE TAX OFFICE. *as I write this I seem to recall that when filing and receiving in return the government’s acceptance of your tax liability, and you find you have a credit – you – personally - have a limited period of time to apply to receive these funds – or they are lost forever.

***************************************************

FOREIGNERS THAT MIGHT CHOOSE TO HAVE GREECE AS THEIR PERMANENT RESIDENCE:

Foreign pensioners that choose to have a permanent residence in Greece, and that file their pension income from abroad as income in Greece would also have to submit those receipts to keep their tax-free allowance of 12,000 Euros a person. Any additional money would also require more receipts.

If there had been a higher tax rate in Greece on the same amount of funds as a pensioner from the Greek system might earn – then the FOREIGNER (that is a permanent resident in Greece) would have to pay what taxes are due on the pension that is being claimed in Greece as income.

This is EVEN THOUGH THERE ARE BILATERAL AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER COUNTRIES.

THE BILATERAL AGREEMENT OF THE TWO DIFFERENT GOVERNMENTS STILL EXPECT A PERSON TO PAY ADDITIONAL INCOME IN ANOTHER COUNTRY IF THE TAX FREE AMOUNT IS LOWER IN THE COUNTRY THAT THE PENSION ORIGINATED FROM IN COMPARISON TO THE COUNTRY OF PERMANENT RESIDENCE.

So – if a pensioner’s income in the year of 2010 is less than 12,000 Euros – no additional taxes would be paid here. But maybe the tax due on amounts over 12,000 Euros is less than the tax due by continuing to claim non-residence status. It all depends on the amount of the pension – and the amount of imported funds needed for filing – and every case is different.

UPDATES:
please copy & paste this to your document if forwarding -

BOATS: thefollowing should be inserted at the end of this topic where i have mentioned resident permit

SAILBOATS ARE EXEMPT
FOR SOME REASON NON-PERMANENT RESIDENT FOREIGNERS HAVE AN EXEMPTION ON PLEASURE BOATS–(*this is the first time I have seen a tax law different for foreigners)

NOTES: WAYS THAT YOU MIGHT LEARN MORE - the following should be inserted at the end of this topic where i have mentioned resident permit

A permanent residence permit does not (at this time?) have anything to do with tax status. It has always been confusing in that many foreigners tell me they are permanent residents because they have a permit - but that is only a document issued by the police, and usually obtained for a purchase of a vehicle. It does NOT give a foreigner a permanent resident status on their tax forms.

KYTTARO ROCK MUSIC BAR - Live BLUES WIRE ACOUSTIK

2010-12-02T12:35:00.000+02:00

Thursday 16th December at THE rock music bar of Kalamata - KYTTARO

Pedistrian street Amfeias in the historic centre of Kalamata

Live - Blues Wire Akoustik

Sponsered by JACK DANIEL'S

KYTTARO ROCK BAR - Grand Opening

2010-12-02T12:33:00.001+02:00

Located on the pedistrian street AMFEIAS - Historic Centre of Kalamata

An unpretensious true ROCK music bar KYTTARO officially opens it doors on Friday, 3rd December 2010 in the company of Jack Daniel's

Great music and atmosphere!

Emission Card - Important

2010-11-25T19:29:00.001+02:00

This is the emission card that all car owners must have irrevelant of age of vehicle. If you do not have this card you will not be able to be issued with your road tax disk.

You can pass by AUTOVISION - near to the local Kalamata Airport and there is no need to make an appointment unless you want to. You go with your car and the car papers, they will run the test and issue you with a card like the one above (which has a number and also states your car licence plate number). It is valid for one year and must be renewed before expiry date.

This information has been confirmed.

Road Tax_ Important Information

2010-11-23T15:23:00.001+02:00

Today I had to ring and book my MOT (every two years at the moment); an easy process since I go to the private MOT centre near to the airport AUTOVISION Tel 2721099699

I did my first MOT there and they sent me a reminder a month ago that I need to book an appointment for the 24 November, which I have just done.

The pleasant sounding girl on the end of the phone advised me to bring my original MOT file, my ID and the car document and also my card (showing exhaust fume level - sorry don't know the exact word in English). What????? She explained that this is now issued and renewable each year and that from now onwards...

No road tax will be issued without it!

MOT cost for passager car 47 Euro
Card cost 11 Euro

So for all of you who do not have this card, please make sure that you book an appointment at AUTOVISION and get it.

Road tax bills should be coming out soon and will need to be paid before the end of the year, failure to do so will result in a fine equivalent to the road tax. If your road tax bill does not turn up by early Dec then head down to the tax office with your ID, car document and your 'exhaust fume level' card and pay your tax and get your disc.

Anyone who reads this please pass the information along! It might be something that most people do NOT know.

Toll increase on Kalamata - Athens highway

2010-11-23T10:26:00.000+02:00

As from 22 November 2010 the toll payment increases on the Kalamata-Athens-Kalamata highway. It will now cost 12 Euro in tolls for the journey.

A new toll post has been opened at ASEA.

Toll fees up to Korinthos or up to Kalamata are

Motorbikes 4,30 Euro
Cars (up to 2.20m in height) 6,30 Euro
Vehicles with 2-3 axones and over 2.20m in height 16,00 Euro
Vehicles with 4+ axones and over 2.20m in height 22,30 Euro

Walking Tours in Mani

2010-11-17T13:19:00.000+02:00

Areopoli

23062

Lakonia

Greece

Tel: +30 27330 52611

Mob: +30 6937 772 996

e mail: asimimail@gmail.com

Towers, caves and mulepaths of the Mani: 2-12 April 2011

The Mani is a sea-swept peninsula in the Southern Peloponnese, stretching down from the rocky spine of the Taigetos mountain range to the southernmost tip of Balkan Europe. Terraced olive groves climb up to snow-capped peaks, and hidden coves offer secluded swims in both the Ionian and Aegean seas. In spring the mountains are carpeted with wild flowers, contrasting with the stony grey of the tower houses which are particular to this region of Greece. Varied and often challenging walking combined with Byzantine chapels, classical remains and caves reveal a side of Greece which remains largely undiscovered.

Day 1

We collect you from Athens airport after lunch and drive 3 hours south to the village of Mystras, which nestles amongst orange groves beneath the Eastern slopes of Mount Taigetos, just outside Sparti. Here we stay for 2 nights.

Day 2

Our first walk takes us up into the foothills of the Taigetos mountains on an old cobbled path, through a charming mountain village and back down through a densely wooded valley alongside a gushing stream - a rare sight in Greece. In April we should see carpets of red anemones and a variety of orchids. (6 miles)

Day 3

We visit the archeological site of Mystras, clinging to the steep slopes of Myzithra hill. Mystras was the capital of Byzantium for 7 years in the fifteenth century and has some wonderful frescoed churches within its walls. After a picnic lunch in an olive grove with spectacular mountain views and a short walk down the gorge to the village (2 miles), we then transfer one hour to our tower house hotel in Areopoli, our base for the next 3 nights.

Day 4

We drive a short distance south to the fascinating sea caves of Pirgos Dhirou - one of the many mythological entrances to the underworld, which we explore in small boats. From there we walk back to Areopoli on an old mule path for lunch in my little walled garden. There is an optional afternoon walk down from the village on another cobbled path with spectacular views north towards Taigetos to the coastal village of Tsipa, with its windswept beach and cafes. (7 miles)

Day 5

We take a spectacular drive south to the tiny village of Hotasia, from where we follow a beautiful coastal route up on the cliffs past spectacular ruins to the tiny cove of Afyngia. We then head inland following a tiny cow path through spurge covered slopes to reach our picnic amidst the olive groves. The afternoon’s walk continues across this well-tended plateau past bee hives and on to visit the seventeenth century monastery of Dekoulou. A short walk down through terraced orchards brings us out at the sea, where we can have a coffee before returning by vehicle to Areopoli. (8 miles)

Day 6

Leaving Areopoli, we transfer to a village further south on the olive-covered western plateau of the Deep Mani, we set off on foot to cross the rugged spine of Mount Sagias on an old smugglers’ path, passing en route remote shepherds huts and the ruined Doric temple of Aigla, where we eat our packed lunch. Leaving this ethereal setting behind, we descend past the deserted but fascinating monastery of Krounou to a tiny smugglers’ cove on the more cliffy east coast, from where we drive on to our beautifully situated hotel in the tiny fishing harbour of Gerolimenas, where we stay for 4 nights. (7 miles)

Day 7

We drive to the northern side of Cavo Grosso, and walk out on a rocky spit to visit the remains of the sea-swept Castle of the Maina. In the afternoon, there is the option to follow narrow lanes down through the wild, open countryside so typical of the Mani, back to the bay of Gerolimenas, or else to go and relax on the terrace overlooking the sea. (9 miles)

Day 8

Today is one of the most exhilarating of the walk. We follow small mule paths up into the heart of the “Bad Mountains” to the village of Mountanistika (600m), and on over a magnificent ridge down into a hidden and surprisingly lush valley, where we have our packed lunch. In the afternoon, we continue over another rocky ridge to end up in the eerie tower house village of Lagia where we can have tea in a traditional cafeneion. From here we follow a dramatic road back to Gerolimenas by vehicle. (9 miles)

Day 9

Weather-depending, we follow either paths, or a rocky ridge to Cape Tenaron - the southernmost tip of the Mani peninsula, and indeed the Balkans. After enjoying our picnic at an old temple, we can explore the ancient ruins of the Laconian town (2nd century b.c.) and the brave can bathe in the azure water of a hidden cove on our afternoon walk back to the tiny village of Paliros. (6 miles)

Day 10

A day to relax, with a short optional walk in the morning, and an excursion to a beautiful beach (for the brave!) in the afternoon.

Day 11

An early start for our return to Athens by road. (5 hours).

General Information

In April , the weather should be fine, with an abundance of wild flowers - some quite rare, and for the brave there are several occasions to swim. However, being a mountainous peninsula - there is often still snow on the peaks of the Taigetos mountain range - it is worth being prepared for all conditions. If the weather does turn cold, the Greek hotels are not best prepared for warming us up, so bring a small bundle of warm clothes! The terrain is very rocky, so boots are essential, and some of the paths can be quite overgrown with prickly undergrowth, so it is a good idea to have trousers to slip on over shorts if necessary. A small day pack is essential for carrying plenty of water and on a couple of occasions, a packed lunch. We eat in a mixture of local tavernas and the hotels themselves, none of which are formal.

Walking

The walking is quite demanding throughout - mainly because the paths are very rocky and require concentration to navigate! Parts of the walk are steep - both up and down, and on one occasion we gradually ascend 750 metres in a day. On most days, the walks can be divided up into sections, so that if you (or I) decide that a whole day is too much, then it is possible to join just the parts of the walk which suit your personal ability.

Accommodation

In Mystras we stay in a simple but recently renovated hotel. In Areopoli we use a traditional tower house guest house with a lovely garden in the old village. In Gerolimenas we stay in another traditional stone guest house in a wonderful location right on the sea.

Food and wine

We try to encourage our Maniot friends to give us “granny’s home cooking”, which is fresh, seasonal and hearty. We will endeavour to try out all the local specialities - be aware, however, that although we are near the coast for most of the trip, fish is not that readily available in the Mediterranean. We will only order it if it is absolutely fresh. In Gerolimenas there is a wonderful restaurant offering excellent contemporary cuisine. We will also try out some interesting Greek wines, some of which are good enough - I think - to bring home!

Insurance

Please ensure that you have comprehensive insurance for every eventuality.

Visas etc

A valid passport is required. No visas, inoculations or vaccinations are required by citizens of the UK and Ireland for travel to Greece. It is advisable, however, to check with your doctor before departure. If you do not hold a UK passport, you must inform me of this fact when booking and contact the Greek embassy to see whether this is required in your case. It is your responsibility to to ensure that you have the correct and current visa documentation.

Cost

Money-wise, everything is included: i.e. all your meals (except for lunch on day10) are paid for from dinner on day 1 until lunch on day 11, as well as wine with dinner. However, any extra pre-dinner drinks, ice-creams, coffees etc. are not. Greeks tend not to have coffee/tea after dinner - in fact you cannot usually get these in a taverna - so these are not included either. Entrance to Mystras, churches etc. whenever you are with ME are all covered.

This trip runs with a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 people.

Price of trip: £2,035 (single supplement of £250).

You will be able to book this trip through Sunvil, who is my agent in the UK - they ensure full AITO bonding and liability insurance and take credit cards.

Reading suggestions

Mani - Patrick Leigh Fermor (very erudite and detailed, so more interesting to read when you are THERE)

Deep into Mani - Peter Greenhalgh/Edward Eliopoulos (out of print, but a fabulous insight into the place - highly recommended)

The Greeks - James Pettifer (social critique of the culture, politics etc)

The Colossus of Maroussi - Henry Miller

Dinner with Persephone - Patricia Storace

Modern Greece, A Short History – C M Woodhouse

A Traveller's History of Greece - Timothy Botswain/Colin Nicholson

Local Elections 2010

2010-11-17T08:31:00.000+02:00

RED - Kalamata - Panagiotis Nikas (Mayor)
MAUVE - Western Mani - Dimitris Giannimaras (Mayor)
GREEN - Messini - Stathis Anastasopoulos (Mayor)
PURPLE - Pilos/Nestoros - Dimitris Kafadaris (Mayor)
YELLOW - Trifilias - Kostas Kollias (Mayor)
BLUE - Oixlias - Filipos Bamis (Mayor)

Petros Tatoulis is the regional head of Peloponnese

Elections - Dimitris Drakos

2010-11-14T20:46:00.002+02:00

Years past and the election period in Greece was chaos, people driving around in cars or vans with loud speakers, and papers being thrown absolutely everywhere in the streets! This was then stopped.

Imagine my shock this morning when I came out on to my north facing balcony with my coffee to spend my 'me time' relaxing and taking in the view of the hills and watch the goats across the road and the birds eating seed on the edge of the neighbouring balcony; to see my whole street littered with papers!!!!

I went down to investigate and took photos because I just could not believe that this had happened. This showed me that there was a total lack of respect for Kalamata, for the people who live in Kalamata and for the enviroment. Do I want this person to continue to have say in what happens in Messinia? All I can say is that Sunday morning I was in two minds, but after seeing the rubbish on my street and later all down Faron and Akritas Street and in the school yard of the 7th Primary School of Kalamata - my vote did NOT go to Dimitris Drakos!

Shame on you!

More Internal Flights from Kalamata Airport

2010-11-05T18:30:00.000+02:00

The local news channel on TV this afternoon reported that some more internal flights are to operate out/in to Kalamata airport

Kalamata - Zakynthos
Kalamata - Kerkyra (Corfu)
Kalamata - Prebeza

this adds to the flights

Kalamata - Athens
Kalamata - Crete (Heraklion)
Kalamata - Thessaloniki

Now we need Easyjet!

National Road Kalamata-Athens Update

2010-11-04T10:32:00.000+02:00

Tharros - Local newspaper
4 November 2010

Athens is closer: as of yesterday another section of the new national road has been opened to the public making the drive from Tripoli to Megalopoli easier, safer and closer! The last section of the road from Megalopoli down to the main stretch Alagi-Kalamata and Megalopi - Sparti should be handed over around this time next year if not earlier; making drive time much less and safer than it used to be.

Greece halts foreign mail

2010-11-04T09:57:00.001+02:00

Greece halts foreign mail as police hunt parcel bombers - as reported on Yahoo.

http://uk.news.yahoo.com/18/20101103/twl-greece-halts-foreign-mail-as-police-3cebad0.html

My comment: What the report does not make clear, and I have just spoken to my friendly postman, the foreign mail halt is on courier mail and NOT Greek post office mail.

Legalization of covered outside areas

2010-11-03T11:43:00.000+02:00

Tharros Newspaper
2 November 2010

To date 600 files have been submitted to the special office set up within the Planning Office. Out of the 600 files, 100 owners have completed the paperwork and paid the fine which will cover them for the next 40 years.

It seems that property owners with this problem have not been informed correctly about the procedure hence the low number of files submitted to date. There is a fear that the property might be surveyed and therefore other illegalities uncovered. The phenomena being that apart from covered outside area, there are also conversions of basement area in to living space and extensions that increase the building size as well as changes in landscaping.

My comment: Anyone who has this kind of illegality must contact their engineers and sort out this out. It will rear its head if and when you come to sell on your property. Any buyer now irrelevant of nationality is making sure that there are NO inherited illegalities to a property. Those 'grey areas' are now coming to an end. I cannot stress strongly enough the need for buyers and people who are selling on their properties to double check all the paperwork and not necessarily by the original people who dealt with it.

Tax Objective Values for 341 areas within Messinia

2010-11-03T11:30:00.000+02:00

Local newspaper THARROS
2 November 2010

341 area of Messinia which show a large amount of property development will, at the beginning of the year (2011) be evaluated and given tax objective values. This will mean that next year when the 'Foros Akinitis Perisousias' is issued it will be valued as per the new tax objective values (zones) as will the property tax on any transfer of property (purchase).

My comments: Before many areas without actual defined tax objective values, the paperwork for a purchase of a property was submitted to the tax office for a valuation. As from the beginning of the year the zones and the tax objective value for each zone will be available without submitting relevant paperwork for evaluation. Evaluations were mainly done in the tax office by looking through a register to see what price (declared price) was paid for a similar property within a particular area.

Obtaining AMKA (Social Security Nr.)

2010-10-14T13:25:00.000+03:00

If you are resident in Greece an AMKA number is required, this is also a necessary number to have if you are going to apply for an IKA (Greek National Health) medical insurance booklet.

EEC nationals will go to the local KEP office (Citizen Bureau) with their passport and full details including parents full names and you will be issued with your AMKA number.

Pomegrantes

2010-10-14T09:57:00.000+03:00

Velvet Feet

2010-10-14T09:55:00.000+03:00

It was with pleasure that I read in the local newspaper an article on the garra rufa doctor fish! We now have a shop in Kalamata that offers this treatment.

Velvet Feet
57 Aristodimo Street
Tel 27210 95642
Open 9am-9pm

Half an hour session 12 Euro
One hour session 20 Euro

I had read about this treatment some months ago over the internet and thought to myself that I would never have the opportunity in Greece to try it, but Elena bought the concept in via Germany and has taken great care and effort to set up her business in line with the German rules and regulations for such a business; at the same time introducing the powers that be in to the rules and regulations for obtaining a working licence.

I went for a half hour session yesterday and although it does not give the effect of a traditional pedicure, you do relax and the feeling of having your feet in a tank full of little garra rufa is rather like having your feet emersed in a gently hydromassage unit. I sat chatting with Elena and sipping a mug of green tea while Dr. Fish did their work and then had Balsamic Oil rubbed in to my feet by Elena.

I will repeat the experience especially since I can see that my feet look and feel healthier than they have felt in a long time this morning! The gentle work of Dr. Fish works!

www.velvetfish.gr

Even if you only try it once you will be supporting a young Greek entrepeneur!

Rubbish Piling Up Again - Kalamata

2010-10-14T09:47:00.000+03:00

The rubbish bins along the streets of Kalamata are filling up and overflowing on to the pavements and streets! This is because the dump has been shut once again. So please, everyone, think before throwing in the rubbish. We have recycle bins and if we can, we can have compost bins. There are compost bins available for balconies!

Health Insurance via IKA for EEC Pensioners

2010-10-06T11:09:00.000+03:00

I picked up the above information from the IKA offices on Fillelinon Street today and the necessary paperwork for application and issuance of insurance booklet is as follows:

Filled in Application Form (from the IKA offices)
Photocopy of passport or ID (original also with you)
Copy of Greek tax number paper or copy of tax return form
Your E121 or E109
AMKA number (obtain from your local KEP office)
Copy of rental agreement (house/flat) or deeds to house or a utility bill showing your name, your address and your tax number.
One photo

The cupboard is bare...

2010-09-29T14:09:00.000+03:00

Do not be surprised at empty shelves in supermarkets or local shops; the truck drivers are on strike and supplies are dwindling by the day or possibly by the hour and there is no light at the end of the tunnel just yet!

Property Tax Objective Values

2010-09-29T14:08:00.000+03:00

Driving the school run on Monday morning with the radio on I heard the basic news headlines one of which was that tax objective values were to be increased at the beginning of January 2011.

Bad news or good news? I would have to reply that it is good news because the difference between objective and market value of property here in Greece is enormous and it will be a great relief, if one day, the system is such that the country's national land registry is completed and areas are zoned and valued therefore making property investment a tad easier.

Workers Join Austerity Strikes Across Europe

2010-09-29T14:05:00.001+03:00

Reading through the Yahoo pages I came across an article with the above heading - so it is not just Greece which is fed up with austerity measures.

I was trying to get somebody to understand 'what all the fuss is about' and although it is obviously not helping Greece the strikes are for some valid reasons.

For example when a married couple with the standard 2 children are both earning basic salaries of around 900 Euro and those salaries are cut back to around 600 Euro - would you not make a noise about it if it happened to you?

The truck drivers now on strike are against the 'closed occupation' becoming an 'open occupation' especially when you understand that licences for trucks and for taxis are sold on and were considered an investment some years ago.

I suppose the arguement is that the severe austerity measures being applied now could have been introduced slowly but surely over the 20 odd years that Greece have now been part of the EEC but that would be the logical, practical and sensible way to do it. I doubt there is a state in the world that works logically, practically and sensibly!

The whole of Europe seems to be in the same boat but what has horrified me is that looking through publications and international websites Greece seems to have disappeared, so why is it that Greece is being hit on and other crisis struck countries are not?

Greek Tax Information for 2nd home owners

2010-09-20T10:15:00.000+03:00

September 2010

All foreign property owners of a 2^nd home in Greece must be aware that funds will be needed in your Greek account to cover the upkeep of your property in Greece. The Greek tax office has issued guidelines for the amount required to cover maintenance of such a property. Any questions should be directed to your accountant in Greece for clarification.

Living Space

Up to 80m2 30 €/m2

81m2 – 120m2 50 €/m2

121m2 – 200m2 80 €/m2

201m2 – 300m2 150 €/m2

301m2 + 300 €/m2

Garage/Storeroom

X m2 30 €/m2

Outdoor swimming pools

Up to 60m2 100 €/m2

Example:

If you have a house with 120m2 of living space + 60m2 of basement (storage-garage area) and an outdoor pool of 50m2

(80m2 x 30) + (40m2 x 50) + (60m2 x 30) + (50m2 x 100) = 11,200 €

You will need to show proof from your Greek bank that you have 11,200 € a year in your account to cover the maintenance and upkeep of your property.

Information was provided by V. Papamicroulis - Accountant/Kalamata

4th Street Festival - Fragkolimnas Square, Kalamata

2010-09-17T10:24:00.000+03:00

Sunday 19th September 2010
Fragkolimnas Square (near to Ipapanti church)

Kalamata Youth Centre is organizing the 4th Street Festival with outdoor creative activities.

Grafitti
Dirt Bikes
Battle of Skates
Face painting
3R workshop
Exhibition of photography
Video shows
Bazaar
Raffle

Natural Gas Pipe Line to Kalamata

2010-09-17T10:17:00.000+03:00

The local newspaper THARROS dated today has as frontpage news that the plan is for the natural gas pipeline to extend from the Attiki into the Peloponesse intially Korinthos leading down to Argos, Naphlion, Tripoli and Megalopoli. Future plans are to provide gas to Patra, Kalamata and Sparti.

The pipeline will be 159 kilometres long and they say that the project will probably commence at the beginning of 2011 and probable completion by mid 2012.

No Smoking Ban - AGAIN

2010-08-31T11:13:00.000+03:00

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!

How To Shop Tax Free - Greece

2010-08-20T11:35:00.000+03:00

GLOBAL BLUE

Refund points in Greece

Athens International Airport
Iraklion International Airport Crete
Thessalonica International Airport

www.global-blue.com

Open Season

2010-08-19T10:09:00.000+03:00

As from tomorrow 20th August the hunting season legally starts and will end 22 February!

Big Decrease in Tourism

2010-08-19T10:07:00.000+03:00

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!

Messinia is Burning

2010-08-19T10:02:00.000+03:00

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 19/8/2010

Renting Out Your Home

2010-08-06T09:43:00.000+03:00

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.

The Saga of Stench in Kalamata

2010-07-17T11:06:00.000+03:00

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!

An Inexpensive Solution

2010-07-16T11:02:00.001+03:00

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.gr

Phone 27210 81811

Santaroza Street, near to the harbour

The Stench in Kalamata

2010-07-16T10:16:00.001+03:00

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!!!!

1st Kalamata Jazz Festival

2010-07-16T09:59:00.002+03:00

16th Kalamata Dance Festival

2010-07-16T09:58:00.000+03:00

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.gr

General Strike

2010-05-13T18:44:00.002+03:00

Tharros 13 May 2010

Back page advises that the next 24-hour strike is planned for 20 May 2010

Closure of Rubbish Dumps

2010-05-13T18:43:00.000+03:00

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 owner

A9 - Olympia Highway

2010-05-13T18:37:00.000+03:00

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!

12th May - Pharmacy Strike

2010-05-12T09:22:00.002+03:00

A 24-hour strike of all pharmacies in Messinia!

Kalamata and Gialova... Bird's Eye View

2010-05-12T09:21:00.000+03:00

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.

Aegean - Flight Kalamata to Athens to Kalamata

2010-05-12T09:19:00.000+03:00

On the 17th May 2010 the inaugeration of the Aegean flight Athens-Kalamata.

Old Kardamili

2010-05-04T20:03:00.000+03:00

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.

Car For Sale - Kalamata Messinia

2010-05-03T18:02:00.001+03:00

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

SOLD

Who is up to their tricks again?

2010-04-20T13:15:00.000+03:00

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!

Kennels

2010-04-14T16:48:00.001+03:00

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

Economic Crisis - Greece - Messinia

2010-04-06T19:23:00.000+03:00

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!

Bazaar - Agios Andreas

2010-04-06T19:14:00.000+03:00

SUNDAY 11 APRIL 2010

Kassimiotis Hotel, Agios Andreas

11am - 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 telephone

697 337 9542

Holy Week and Easter Sunday/Monday

2010-03-30T18:05:00.000+03:00

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 Pascha

Corinth to Megalopoli - new road open

2010-03-30T17:52:00.002+03:00

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!

St Patrick's Day

2010-03-15T10:17:00.000+02:00

There is a chance to also see the band in Megali Mantinea on the 20th March, will post details shortly!

Increase of Value Added Tax (FPA)

2010-03-13T10:57:00.000+02:00

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.