Formal Name: Kalamata

Region: Peloponnese

Country: Greece

Language : Greek

Outlets: European Standard, 2 round pins

Voltage: 230 V, 50 Hz

Size: 98 square miles

Population: 57,620

Population Density: 89 people per square mile

Currency: Euro

Time Zone: EET (UTC +2) with Daylight Saving Time

Visas: Most visitors do not need a visa for tourism or business stays of less than 90 days so long as they have a return ticket and passport that is valid for at least 3 months past the end of their stay. Countries currently in political turmoil generally require a visa even for transit through Greece.

ATMs: ATMs are readily available in Kalamata, and accept Visa, MasterCard and Cirrus. Be aware that they occasionally are out of order, so be sure you go a few days before you actually need the money.

Banking: Banks are open every day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will change traveler's cheques and foreign currency. Credit cards are accepted in most major shops, restaurants and hotels, but it's a good idea to check with them first. Note that personal checks are not accepted in Greece.

Airports: Kalamata International Airport receives flights from various European destinations throughout the summer, and from various Greek cities several times a week throughout the year.

Transportation: Kalamata is well connected with the rest of Greece. The Hellenic Railways Organization operates regular trains with a station in the city. Buses with the KTEL bus company run frequently to a multitude of destinations throughout Greece. Kalamata is also connected to other seaside Greek cities via weekly cruise boats and ferries.

Tipping: Tipping is fairly common in Greece, though it is expected more from tourists than locals. If there is a service charge on your restaurant bill then you can leave a few Euros on the table for good service. If there is no service charge then it is common to leave 10 to 20 percent for the waiter. Porters should receive a few Euros for their efforts. Taxis do not expect tips unless they help you with luggage.

Postal Code: 241 00

Country Telephone Code: 30

City Telephone Code: 27210

Hospital: 27210 46000

Ambulance: 166

Police: 27210 44600

Tourist Police: 27210 44681

Fire: 199

Embassies: The Netherlands and Chile have consulates located in Kalamata. Most other embassies or consulates are located in Athens.

Facts: Kalamata is well known for its high quality olives, olive oil and figs. It is also one of the few places that makes sfela cheese, an incredibly salty variety. Before you leave be sure to pick up a few silk handkerchiefs or scarves, Kalamata's specialty.