Living during the summer 2015 heatwaves

From May until the first week of August 2015, Europe in general and Carmona in particular experienced an exceptionally hot summer with a succession of eight extended heatwaves. In Carmona what we call ‘heat’ (close to or above 40ºC) doesn’t usually arrive until July but June can be a delightful and ideal month.

The altitude of Carmona at 600 feet above sea level favours breezes. The summer heat is dry with fresh evenings and nights a like in the desert. Breathing can be difficult during heatwaves and perspiration becomes troublesome.

Photos will show you a few suggestions to live well under these extreme circumstances.

MORNINGS‘ Early Walks, if possible before or at around daybreak (around 7am) enabling one to admire de Vega (plain) from the Parque de los Almendrales, the “lungs” of Carmona.

 

 

 

 

 

Or look for alternative routes but always early and under the shade.

To chat outside in between cars on chairs on the Tarmac

To sweep street dust or to refresh them.

To paint facades.

To listen to Francisco practising his humour saying “This is a garlic and water heat” (playing with the words it means a summer we must endure) while serving us as part of the many pleasures of life.

Furthermore, Francisco also comments: “The Bajo (low)  Guadalquivir (river) that starts from Cordoba, passing by Ecija, Seville, and ending at Sanlucar de Barameda, the river mouth–has the fame to be the hottest region of Spain.”

LIGHT LUNCH  with tortillas (cold potato omelettes), salads, roasted peppers, all kind of blue fish (best grilled sardines atEl Campo!) . You must also drink 2 litres of liquid a day which can include home made gazpacho.

AFTERNOONS SWIM a non stop quest for any pool at a friend’s campo.

One should not forget to situate the bed so as to spend a night observing the shooting stars… or why not dance in the shade.

To take a long siesta and avoid the sun while being able to enjoy late nights!

NIGHTS, up to 1 a.m. to be able to savour two tapas and drink beer or a mixture of wine and sparkling limonade for less than 7 Euros per person everywhere at Carmona.

 

Mention should also be made of the numerous and gracious cultural offers!