Kala 2022 pre-trip
The time has finally arrived! Soon we will be finally en route to the long-awaited third edition of Kala. We cannot wait to spend a magical week with all of you on the sun-drenched beaches of the Albanian Riviera!
We have created this document so you have all the information you need ahead of your trip in one place, including transfers, accommodation check in and accreditation. Please read through and if anything is still unclear drop us an email on hello@kala.al.
Travel information
What to do in advance
Check in online
Remember to check in online and get boarding passes for all passengers for both the outbound and return leg of your flight, otherwise the airline may charge you.
Make sure to check your baggage allowance for both cabin & hold bags as some airlines have updated their policies recently.
Get travel insurance
We highly advise that you book travel insurance that includes Covid cancellation cover. The Global health insurance card (GHIC) is not valid in Albania and any healthcare costs can be expensive if you do not have insurance.
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, please make a Kala staff member aware. The emergency numbers in Albania are listed below. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Emergency numbers
General emergency: 112
Emergency at sea: 125
Police: 129
Ambulance: 127
Fire brigade: 128
Road police: 126
Don’t forget to pack
• Passport: We are going abroad!
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat: It gets hot during the day - expecting around 27ºC 😎
• Beach towel and swimwear
• Party shoes
• A couple of warmer layers for evening and boat trips
• Fitness clothes if you decide to take part in our wellness classes
• EU travel adapter and phone charger. A power bank is never a bad idea!
• Waterproof mac - weather is meant to be good but better to be prepared!
• Mosquito repellent
Spending money
Kala is cashless this year. Your festival wristband has an RFID chip where you can top up credit to spend at the bars. This is the cheapest and safest way to spend your money on site. Most restaurants take cards and there are a couple ATMs on site, we recommend bringing it out with you as some of the ATMs charge large transaction fees around €8.
The local currency is LEK. However, Euros are accepted in many places around Albania. If you bring Euros you will be able to exchange them at the local currency exchange office.
We recommend bringing some cash and a Revolut or Monzo card with you to save on card fees.
Check your roaming plan
Albania may not be included in your roaming free destinations, which means you will be charged for internet data by your phone provider - and probably quite a lot.
The only reason you should really need your phone at Kala is to locate your accommodation but not to worry, below you will find a step by step guide on how to save your accommodation on Google maps so you can access it offline.
If you still want to have data, you can get a pay as you go SIM from Vodafone and activate their international roaming plan for £6/day.
Covid
As of May 1st 2022, all Covid-19 related travel requirements have been lifted. This means travellers no longer need to show proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test, nor complete a Passenger Locator Form in order to enter Albania or Greece. However, it is still required to wear protective masks in all indoor spaces, including the aircraft.
Even if not legally required, we invite everyone to take a test before travelling to keep our community safe. After 2 years without being able to enjoy Kala, we don’t take this opportunity for granted. Tests may not be easily available in Dhërmi so may want to pack some as well.
Booking changes
As we need to confirm all final details with your hosts at Kala, Friday 27th May is the deadline for any booking changes and edits to your booking. Unfortunately we will not be able to make any changes to your booking past this day.
Road to Kala - Festival transfers
On arrival
Once you land in Corfu, you need to make your own way to Corfu port (Kerkira). The best way to get there is by taxi - there is a taxi stop right outside the airport, the journey takes about 20 minutes.
Be sure to ask your taxi driver to take you to the International port for Albania rather than the domestic one for the rest of Greece.
Collecting your wristband at Corfu Port
On arrival at the port, head to the meeting point (number 2 on the below map). A festival rep will be present outside the main terminal building and will advise you on where to join the queue.
Whilst in the queue for the boat check in, festival reps will be running accreditation and distributing wristbands. Please ensure you have your photo ID, your e-ticket, and any cashless top up vouchers ready to be scanned. The e-ticket will be sent via email the week before the event.
Once you have collected your wristband, please head inside the terminal building to collect your boarding pass. You will need your e-ticket and a photo ID. Then turn right to go through Greek passport control and wait to board the boat.
The boat ride
Boats go from Corfu (Greece) to Himarë (Albania). The standard Ferry takes about 2hr 45 and the Dolphin (speedy transfers) only 1hr 30. Enjoy the view while you cruise the Riviera. If you are lucky you may see some dolphins!
The final leg
Once you get to Albania, our festival reps will escort you to the Albanian Customs desk for passport control, then direct you to the coach park before leaving for Dhërmi. This will take between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending where your hotel is located.
Fancy checking what the journey looks like? Check out our instagram stories of the journey here.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
If your flight is slightly delayed and you miss your boat, we will do our best to accommodate you on the next ferry. If you are on the last boat and your flight is delayed by more than 30 - 45 minutes you may need to stay in Corfu overnight - check with your travel insurance. If that happens, come to the port the following day so you can hop on the first boat.
If you are going to miss your boat, feel free to Whatsapp this number to let us know:
Travel and accommodation +355 0693984561
Not travelling with us?
If you are not travelling with us, please make your own way to your accommodation to check in and then head to the info point located near the main gate with your e-ticket and photo ID to collect your wristband at the following times:
Wednesday: 14:00 - 02:00
Thursday: 10:00 - 01:00
Friday: 10:00 - 23:00
Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 - 22:00
Arrival information - Check in procedure
Locate your accommodation
Before travelling, please check the accommodation map below and locate your accommodation and the nearest transfer drop off point in advance.
Bear in mind that you might still have a 10-15 min walk before you arrive at your hotel so it’s vitally important that you know the name of your hotel and how to get there from the shuttle stop.
Pro tip: save this map on your offline maps so you can access anytime. Check here how to do that.
Your accommodation name is detailed on your booking confirmation email - if you cannot locate it you can re send it via manage booking.
Upon arrival
Once you have been dropped off, please head to your accommodation to check in. Festival reps will be at the transfer stop to help you locate your accommodation. Don’t hesitate to ask them for help if you need it.
Accommodation check in
If you are travelling with us, we have notified the accommodation of your arrival time and they will be ready to receive you, even if you are arriving late.
If you are not travelling with us, please check in between 13:00 and 23:00.
For check out times, please speak to the hotel directly upon arrival.
Security deposit
As with any other holiday accommodation, your hotel may require you to pay a security deposit upon arrival.
If this is required, it is likely it will have to be paid in cash as most hotels don’t have the facilities to take card payments. Please confirm upon arrival with your hotel. Deposits vary depending on the accommodation type but on average they are around 100€ per person. We recommend bringing this amount in cash in case your accommodation requires a security deposit.
This amount will be refunded on the grounds that your accommodation is left just as found. Please be sure to arrange this with the hotel prior to your departure. If you are leaving early it may be best to do this the evening before. It is your responsibility to arrange this, we won’t be able to collect it for you.
Accommodation FAQ
Can’t find accommodation?
Check the interactive map (make sure to save it on your offline maps). If you still can’t find it check with festival reps at the drop off point.
No one at the accommodation or reception is closed?
Call the travel and accommodation number +355 0693984561
Any issues with your accommodation?
Please refer to the customer service team at info point at your earliest convenience
Any emergencies related to your accommodation?
Please whatsapp / call this number Travel and Accommodation +355 0693984561
Festival information
Information desk
The information desk is located by the main entrance to the festival site, outside the Grand Boutique Hotel. Head here for:
• Event information
• Customer service queries
• Collect your wristband if you are not travelling with us
• Tickets for local activities like boat trips & more
• Accommodation queries
Opening Times
Wednesday: 14:00 - 02:00
Thursday: 10:00 - 01:00
Friday: 10:00 - 23:00
Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 - 22:00
Monday to Wednesday: 09:00- 18:00
Contact details
Email: hello@kala.al
Customer service: +355 0693984565
Travel and accommodation: +355 0693984561
Both numbers are monitored 24 hours a day.
Festival site
There are two entrances to the festival site:
The main entrance is by Grand Boutique Hotel - E1 on the map. The information desk will be here too. The second entrance is by Splendor Hotel - E2 on the map.
Most of the restaurants are located by the main entrance along the water edge. You will also find a couple shops, an ATM and a currency exchange office in that area.
Stages
There are four stages in Dhërmi plus Gjipe, which is outside the festival area that can only be accessed by boat.
Empire
Our main stage is a sprawling throwback to vintage open air clubbing with bars, a food area with incredible stone-oven pizzas, fresh fish and vegetables, a chill out area with day beds, its own private beach and a stunning mountain backdrop. This space will hold most of the live acts and extended DJ sets, as well as the wellness activities.
Splendor
A tranquil beach bar with sun beds surrounded by vegetation by day that becomes a buzzing open air club at night. This is the second biggest stage at Kala. On Friday and Saturday we will host special sunrise sets here.
The Cove
The Cove is an intimate beach spot a few steps away from the main entrance. You can swim in crystalline waters during the day, enjoy DJs and live bands at sunset, and dance the night away by the sea. If you want to hire a pedalo, this is your place!
Yacht Club
The Yacht club is a cozy late night club on a raised yacht-like terrace flanked by gorgeous beaches and turquoise waters. Expect amazing cocktails and chill out areas during the day, and a full clubbing experience at night.
Gjipe
Gjipe is the hidden gem of the riviera. This natural canyon fenced by 40m high walls and turquoise waters is one of the most incredible locations you will ever dance at, and an experience you will surely remember for years to come.
The canyon is only accessible by boat, thus requiring an extra ticket. It opens Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday between 12:00 - 18:30, with resident DJs Brian Not Brian, Jan Schulte, Jamie Tiller, John Gómez, Lauren Hansom and Nick The Record playing on rotation all weekend.
There are a handful of tickets left on the manage booking portal. We promise this is an experience you don’t want to miss!
Music schedule
Running order and set times will be announced closer to the event. Keep an eye out on our socials.
Etiquette
Kala is a space for people to connect through music and shared experiences overseas. We welcome people from far and wide with open arms, regardless of races, genders or sexualities, as long as they come with a positive attitude.
Here are a few but essential house rules. Please read through:
• Be inclusive:
People at Kala are free to dress how they want, be who they want to be and love who they want to love. We want everyone to be able to freely be themselves without judgment. Please look after each other, treat everyone with respect, embrace the openness and celebrate together.
If you suffer or witness any sexist, racist or homophobic behaviour, or someone or somehting is making you uncomfortable or vulnerable, please let us know. The welfare team will be on hand to help but you can reach out to any member of staff. Bar staff, security, DJs, we are all on the same team. Kala is a safe space and we'll protect it preciously.
• Be open:
At Kala you will be able to enjoy a wide and eclectic selection of artists. From the biggest international acts to obscure selectors and unsung local heroes, this is a great opportunity for you to discover new music, genres and artists.
If you see an act you haven't heard before playing a peak time slot, rest assured there are reasons for it. We put a lot of care on the programming and the music curation. Step out of your comfort zone, your new favorite act may be waiting there.
• Be present:
Kala is an escape from the everyday, make the best out of it. If you are on the dance floor, put your phone away. Dance, interact with the people around you, let loose and enjoy the moment.
• Respect the locals
Albanians are incredibly welcoming but remember that we are here as guests. Be kind to our hosts, keep the noise down outside the music venues, and leave the place in the same or better condition as it was when you arrived.
• Respect the environment
Be mindful of your surroundings and look after this place. We are incredibly lucky that we have the opportunity to spend a week here enjoying gorgeous beaches and our favourite music so don’t take it for granted.
Having fun can be sustainable. Don't throw away your cigarette butts, use the recycling and waste bins provided, refuse plastic bags & straws from local shops & restaurants, collect any plastic you see on the beaches, and help us keep this beautiful place in pristine condition.
Getting around
Shuttle bus
If your accommodation is located outside the festival area you will need some sort of transportation to move between the festival and your accommodation.
We operate a shuttle bus service between Dhërmi and Drymades. The weekly pass costs only £25 per person and provides unlimited shuttles. You can get this in advance via manage booking (up to 48h before the festival) or at the info point.
If you book this in advance, you will be able to collect your shuttle pass wristband in Corfu from a festival rep before boarding the bus. If you want to purchase on site or are not travelling with us you will have to make your own way to the info point to get your shuttle pass wristband.
If you are unsure whether you need a shuttle pass, please check the accommodation map to see where your accommodation is located. Anything in Dhërmi is walking distance to the festival. Perivolos and Drymades areas will require a shuttle pass.
Shuttle times
The shuttles will be looping continuously between the stops roughly every 20 – 30 mins.
Wednesday 8th June: 16:00 – 05:00
Thursday 9th June – Tuesday 14th June 11:00 – 8:00
There are 5 shuttle stops between Dhërmi and Drymades, plus 3 on request stops where you will be able to get off the shuttle if you request so to the driver when you get on the bus. Note the shuttle won't be able to pick you up at those on request stops and you will have to walk to the nearest stop.
Taxis
Alternatively, you can book a taxi to move between the festival and your accommodation. However, the cost will be higher than the bus and you will have to book on the phone each time by calling +355 69 4648484. There will also be a taxi stop near the main entrance.
Our shuttle bus and taxis will be branded so you know they are official. Please only use our official taxi services as they are the most safe and reliable and offer the best value. Please don’t walk home alone and don’t take unlicensed taxis. If you have any trouble finding transportation contact us and we will provide a trusted contact.
Food and drink
Cashless bars and top up
We are operating a cashless system at Kala. It’s safer and easier than using your bank card or cash. It also means less queuing and more dancing.
Your festival wristband will have an RFID chip that can be topped up and used like a prepaid bank card across all festival bars, the market area, the merch stand and selected restaurants. All prices will be in Euros.
You can top up your wristband either by a prepaid voucher bought online before the festival, or at one of our top up stations across the festival site. Online top-ups close on the 7th June at midnight. You can top-up on site after that time. These stations accept card payments only.
The stations will be busy during the first few days. We advise topping up in advance as much as you would like, as any leftover is refundable online after the festival.
Please take a photo of the 14 digit number on the back of the RFID chip as this will be required to claim your refund.
Refunds will open 48 hours after the festival finishes on the 17th of June at 12 midday & the refund system will close on the 4th July at midnight.
Please note there are some small fees to cover part of the costs of running the cashless system and the commissions charged by the credit card providers:
-
Activation fee: 1€
-
Refund fee: 2€
Opening hours
Top up stations will be located across the festival site and will operate from 11am - 5am. The top up locations and opening hours are :
-
Empire: Thursday - Monday from 22:00h - 5:00
-
Splendor: Thursday - Monday from 21:00h - 5:00
-
Yacht club: Friday - Monday from 11:30h - 19:00
-
Cashless area: Wednesday - Tuesday from 11:00h - 4:00
-
Merch stall: Wednesday - Tuesday from 12:00h - 20:00
What happens if I lose my wristband?
Your wristband should remain securely fastened to your wrist. There shouldn’t be any reason for you to remove it, until the event has ended. You should treat your wristband as you would cash or your bank card.
From our experience, it’s very very rare for one of the wristbands to break. If you lose it, we won’t be able to recover any balance but if you have taken a photo of your 14 digit number on the back of the RFID chip you will be able to claim a refund after the festival.
Reusable cups
In order to reduce plastic waste, this year we are introducing reusable cups across all bars. This means that for certain drinks such as spirits you will have to buy a reusable cup the first time you order at the bar. Cups are just 3€ and you will be able to swap yours for a fresh one at no extra charge at any time. Make sure to hold on to your cup at the end of the night so you can get a fresh one the following day.
Restaurants and bars
There are some great restaurants and bars in Dhërmi and Drymades. Albanian food is the meeting point between Italian, Turkish and Greek cuisines. Above all, pride is taken on the use of fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Expect heavenly Mediterranean dishes, fresh salads, fish, pasta and delicious stone-oven pizzas.
Opening times are flexible and it is not rare to see some of them open until midnight.
Empire, Splendor, Gjipe, Lucianos, Grand Boutique, Queen Vasilik1a, Chilli Peppers and onsite festival traders will be accepting RFID. All other restaurants & cash and card. Cash points are located on the map if required.
Activities
Gjipe
Gjipe is a secluded paradise only accessible by boat that sits at the end of a natural canyon fenced by impressive 30m cliffs, stunning beach caves and crystal clear waters where a cherry-picked selection of resident DJs play on rotation.
This is not only one of the most incredible party locations you will ever dance at, but the perfect place to spend the day too. You can relax by the beach, dance at the forest or stroll along the canyon until you reach the enigmatic waterfall
You’ve probably heard loads about this hidden gem but it’s got to be experienced to be believed!
Gjipe runs from 12:00 - 18:30 Friday to Monday. It is only accessible by boat, so make sure you plan your trip accordingly. We recommend getting there as early as possible to make the most of your day. You can chill at the beach, stroll along the canyon and, of course, dance to our dream team of resident DJs.
There are several beach restaurants to grab food from, just remember to top up your wristband and take some cash with you before you go.Boats run every 30 - 45 minutes from the jetty at Yacht Club, where the main stage is located.
• Earliest departure: 11:30
• Latest departure to Gjipe: 15:00
• Latest departure from Gjipe: 19:00
You will be able to collect your wristband before boarding the boat with proof of ID and your e-ticket.
If you already have a ticket, you will be able to collect your wristband before boarding the boat with proof of ID and your
e-ticket.
If you haven’t got a ticket yet, there are a handful of tickets left for some of the days that you can still book via the manage booking portal. Or at the info point on site.
Resident DJs on rotation: Brian Not Brian, Jan Schulte, Jamie Tiller, John Gómez, Lauren Hansom, Nick The Record
Holiday activities
We have partnered with expert local tourist guides to offer a selection of the best holiday activities in the area.
From 4WD excursions along the coast and boat trips to hidden beaches to snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and shipwreck diving, we have got plenty of adventures lined up to help you make your week in the Riviera a truly memorable experience 🏖
These will be available to book on site on a first come first served basis. Head to the customer info point where we have a dedicated activity stand to find out more information.
Water vehicles are available for hire at the following locations:
• Pedalos: Available for hire at Hotel 2000, next to The Cove stage.
• Kayaking: Available for hire at Yacht Club
And last but not least, Dhërmi offers some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean. Check out our beach guide.
Wellness
As usual, there will be a whole host of wellness activities available at Kala to help soothe those aching limbs after a little too much dancing. We will run 4 sessions a day ranging from yoga to meditation and boxing to HIIT.
All of our wellness activities cost just £5, and 100% of the profits will be donated equally between SOS Children’s villages, a charity that provides homes, care and schooling for children in Albania, and Choose Love Ukraine appeal, supporting those affected by the conflict In Ukraine.
Places are limited so make sure to reserve your spot via the link below.
Departure information
Departure transfers will begin from Monday 13th June. The closing party for Kala will take place on Tuesday 14th June until the early hours of Wednesday.
If you have booked your festival transfers with us, please get to your nearest shuttle stop 30 minutes before the bus departure time. You can find your transfer times on your e-ticket.
Do not forget that if you are leaving as early as 4.30am, you may need to arrange your
checkout and security deposit return with your hotel the evening before.
The return trip
The bus will pick you up at the transfer stop nearest to your accommodation to take you to Himare. From there you will get a boat to Corfu. Remember you will need a taxi to get from Corfu port to the airport.
Please make sure you have checked in for your return flight home to make your return journey as smooth as possible.
Basic Albanian words and phrases
Hello (General greeting) Mirë se vjen
Thank you Faleminderit
Yes Po
No Jo
Good morning Mirëmëngjes
Good afternoon Mirëdita,
Good evening Mirëmbrëma
Good night Natën e mirë
Goodbye Paçim
See you later Shihemi më vonë
Cheers! (Toasts used when drinking) Gëzuar!
Have a nice day Ditën e mirë!
Bon appetit / Have a nice meal T'bëftë mirë!
I don't understand Nuk kuptoj
Conditions of entry
Conditions of entry
The event is strictly an over 18's event
All admission is subject to search
The promoter reserves the right to refuse admission to any festival area
For promotion, safety & security reasons, customers may be filmed at any time. When entering Mainstage Festival’s venues you are agreeing to this condition of entry
Unauthorised photography, audio and video is strictly prohibited
Mainstage Festivals will not accept any responsibility for damages or loss sustained at the festival
Tickets are sold on the understanding that the event is subject to a license from the appropriate authorities
Security reserve the right to refuse entry to anyone wearing footwear deemed inappropriate for the environment
Swimming at night and jumping off boats may result in temporary or permanent eviction from the event
Prohibited items or any items that the Event or third parties acting on its behalf (such as security) deem to be either; a risk to the safety, security or enjoyment of others; unsuitable to be taken to the Event; or, may be used in an illegal or offensive manner (regardless of whether or not the item itself is illegal) are not permitted to be taken into any Venue or Stage.
Prohibited items
-
Illegal drugs, New Psychoactive Substances and Nitrous Oxide
-
Glass
-
Spray paints and pens
-
Drones
-
Items that may be used in a dangerous manner including sharps/blades, tasers and CS gas
-
Animals (with the exception of approved assistance dogs)
-
Alcohol & Food Items
-
Private sound systems
-
Flares, bangers, fireworks, sparklers, Chinese lanterns and naked flames Inc. tea lights
-
No unauthorised professional commercial photography