I' m happy, hope you're happy too

Who wouldn't be, in Kefalonia? Excuse me while I go to the beach before dinner.

Later: this is the main square in Skala, which is shaded with tall pines, and is apparently lit up in the evening. I haven't seen that yet. We are staying in a small hotel about ten minutes walk from the centre of Skala, directly opposite the beach, and with its own very good taverna, garden, and pool. Every room has its own private courtyard or balcony. We asked for a double, with a ground floor room, and I'm pleased that it's all worked out.

The 6.10 am flight meant that we didn't sleep the night before. The house and cat sitter had arrived about six the previous evening, and I was embarassed that I wasn't at all ready for her. But I'd had to work all day Thursday in order to get Friday free, so I don't see what I could have done to be more ready. She seems nice, is from Manchester way, and brought me some Eccles cakes, as requested. Bomble has taken to her, which is the main thing.

All was well with the flight, and the transfer coach ride to our hotel gave us a great overview of our part of the island. I've never been to Kefalonia before, but Skala seems stuffed full of Brits who return year after year. I can see the attraction: it's warm, with stunning scenery and plenty of greenery, and above all, it's easy. No hassles here, just smiling faces. CleanSteve is pleasantly relieved that the package holiday experience is proving better than his wildest nightmares. He had been a bit worried, having been an independent traveller for all of his life.

So far, so good....