1. Tourists will not suffer from the language barrier in Kalamata. Many establishments have information written in English. It is also not hard to find English-speaking guides in museums and for excursions. Many locals know basic English.
2. Even though there is an airport in the neighborhood of Kalamata, which accepts flights from different countries, the public transport system is not well-developed due to the small size of the city. Travelers need to rent a car or to be prepared to explore the city on foot.
It may be not easy to find a parking space in Kalamata because local streets are quite narrow and many restaurants do not have their own parking. It is better to ask about the availability of parking in advance and then book a table at the café that you plan to visit.
4. Summer is quite hot in the Peloponnese, and it is sunny almost every day. For this reason, don’t forget to stock up on sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. Autumn is distinguished by mild weather, and then a warm winter comes to Kalamata (the average temperature in winter is above 5°C). Don’t forget to take clothes suitable for the time of your visit.
6. Pay attention to your gestures – some harmless gestures may be considered rude in Greece. For example, the thumbs-up gesture means “shut up” in the country, and pointing at something with two fingers (point finger and middle finger) is considered an insult.
7. In Greece, just like in some other countries, nodding head upward and downward means “no”, and from side to side means “yes”. Be careful when using these gestures.
8. Countries with hot climate often have a siesta – a special break approximately from 1 pm to 5 pm. This is the hottest time of the day, and so many people prefer to relax at home. Many establishments are closed at this time. In winter, there is no siesta break.
9. If you want to visit an unknown restaurant or café, pay your attention to visitors. If the majority of visitors are tourists, there is a chance that food is more expensive and the quality is lower. It is always better to visit restaurants that are popular with local people.
10. Greeks have quite an interesting way to greet each other – two kisses on the cheek. Shaking hands is typical only when people meet each other for the first time.
11. It is better not to criticize the Greek government and the country’s politics when talking to local people. The same applies to the independence movement of Greece. Residents of Kalamata will be hurt deeply by such remarks. A conversation is likely to turn into a passionate argument because of the temper of local people.
12. Just like in many European countries, it is recommended to leave tips in Greece. As a rule, a reward of 5-10% of the total in a restaurant or the price of a service is enough. Sometimes the service fee can be already included in the total. In this case, the information is indicated in the bill or price list.
13. Greeks usually call their acquaintances by their family name. It is allowed to use the first name only when the person asks to do that. Keep this in mind when dealing with locals.
14. As a souvenir from Kalamata, tourists prefer to buy local olive oil, silk items made by nuns from the local monastery, and red wine. It is also a good idea to buy memorabilia with the symbols of the city or a coin with the image of the Church of the Holy Apostles. 
