Water

The tap water on the island is not drinkable. There are public founts with drinking spring water in various places in the village, but the best solution is to drink bottled water.

Food

Generally in Chios, wherever you are, you will never be hungry. In Mesta there are 2 mini markets and several shops for coffee / food / drinks / ice cream / crepes / traditional donuts (λουκουμάδες) etc. If you want a super market, you have to go to one of the neighboring villages, Pyrgi (Πυργί) or Armolia (Αρμόλια) and of course to the city of Chios (Χώρα).

Pharmacy

The nearest pharmacy (we hope it is unnecessary) is in Pyrgi (Πυργί), 10km from Mesta. There is one also to the village of Armolia (Αρμόλια).

Sun

The greek sun is famous for its shining quality. Since the majority of the beaches in Chios are not organised and may not offer shading opportunities (trees, cliffs etc.), you can buy a sun umbrella and have it always in the car with you. It is a pity to avoid visiting a beautifull beach because of the lack of shading.

Telephony

To avoid international charges, especially if you are on the eastern side of the island, make sure your mobile phone is always on a Greek network (or better select manually your network so it doesn’t automatically change to a Turkish provider).

ATMs

The nearest Piraeus Bank / Aplha Bank ATM is located in Pyrgi, 10km from Mesta. In the village, there is a Euronet ATM, with the corresponding charges.

Radio & Music

The radio in Chios, if you are driving on the eastern part, connects mostly with Turkish radio-stations. They play mostly pop-oriental crappy music. Bring your own music (CD, USB), in case you want to make a break from this experience.

GPS

The road signs on the island are sometimes confusing. It’s not a bad idea to bring a GPS (and ideally download offline maps). Try also navigating with the help of locals. It is always a funny process.

Jackets

It gets chilly and windy in the evenings… Especially now that the weather is unpredictable. Listen to your mom and take a jacket with you.

Mosquitoes

During the night hours and when it is not so windy, the mosquitoes are active and bite especially the sweet-blooded (γλυκοαίματους). Do not panic, just bring a Mosquito repellent spray with you. Ηave it with you and the wedding day, since we will spend the whole night there together.

Cigarettes

In Mesta village they don’t sell cigarettes. In case you smoke, you have to get them elsewhere.

Roadside Assistance

If you stuck somewhere with your car and you need the Roadside Assistance, better call Vangelis Loizos.

T: +30 227103 3233 / +30 6942841283 / +30 6936658290

Emergency

European Emergency Number – T: 112

General Hospital of Chios “Skilitsio” – T: +30 2271350100

Pharmacies – E: https://www.vrisko.gr/en/pharmacy-duties/chios/

City Airport Omiros – T: +30 2271021237

// Special thanks to Argyro and Foivos for their contribution to this page.