How to deal effectively with a heatwave while in Athens

Greece is a Mediterranean country with a lot of sun, and everyone loves a sunny day. Of course, as all good things, this occasionally comes with few cons, too. Heatwaves appear regularly during the summer months, especially in July and August. They usually last for a few days, and they can be somewhat daunting; especially if you are not used to them at all. So what do you do if you are on holiday in Athens and…oops, there is a heatwave coming during your stay? No need to worry; you’re on holiday, remember? Just note the following tips; they are simple and super effective!

1. Calmness. No need to panic, it’s just temperature rising and thank god we do have ways to cope with it. Try to avoid strenuous body activity, especially when outside. There is no need to walk fast (running is not advisable, to say the very least). Try walking in a tranquil, relaxed manner. Keep your heartbeat normal.

2. Hydration. It is your number one ally against a heatwave. Carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times. Try to avoid drinking sugary drinks, and stay away from alcohol; it dehydrates you and does things worse. Also a facial water spray is a great idea. It has been a life saver during many Athenian heatwaves. Use it to spray over your head, face and arms regularly; you’ll see a great difference.

3. Diet. Keep your meals light. Avoid fatty food and spices at all costs. Salads (try the Greek horiatiki or the dakos salad), fruits (we’ve got plenty of those in the summer), or a nice Greek yogurt will keep you cool and your stomach light. Not spending too much energy for digestion will maintain your body temperature lower.

4. Clothing. Light, breathable textiles, such as linen or cotton are preferable. Avoid dark colors as they attract sunlight, and also narrow outfits that don’t let your body breathe. Wear loose-fitting clothing, so sweat can evaporate. And definitely, wear a hat! Protect your head, it is after all where your brain lives; you want to keep it as cool as possible.

5. Sunscreen. Use a sun cream with a high sun protection factor - also known as SPF - for protection from the sun's harmful UV radiation. SPF 20 or greater is advised depending on how fair or dark your skin is.

6. Air-conditioning. When you are outside, it is always a good idea to make stops and find refuge in air-conditioned public places. A museum, a library, a restaurant, or even a shopping mall can prove oases of coolness and save you some energy before going out into that extreme sunlight again.

7. Avoid the hottest hours. Try to stay out of the sun between 11.00 am and 3.00 pm. This is when heat is at the highest level. If you plan a tour, then by all means, try the early morning ones.

8. Late dinner, anyone? Or at least later than usual, when the heat subsides. Try it on a lovely Athenian terrace or a balcony after 9.00 pm as Greeks do. You may even enjoy the moonrise.

9. Be proactive. Have the details of your nearest medical center or hospital on your phone. If you start feeling unwell, dizzy, nauseous, disorientated, don’t hesitate. A heat stroke may be on its way. Visit your closest pharmacy (there is one every 100-200 m. in the city). The pharmacist will know what to do.

Stay cool, stay safe, and have fun (yes, in the sun)!

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