most reports are that it is a very good hotel - I had no problems and am staying there again in July. the pool is not dirty and the flats are cleaned every day. One of the best in Kal! weather should be 26-31 degrees when you go and mainly sunny and dry!

Quick question to those who`ve just come back from Zante - how has the euro affected prices - has it been an excuse to put them up? Also, anyone seen Brian and Heather who were Dj and bar in Angels? Also, I take it Labis is still at Cavo Pool Bar? Many thanks

I agree the music`s better at times than Angels but it does cater for an older audience. however you can`t beat sitting on the balcony in Angels watching the world go by, with your drinks served by the lovely Denise! My mate`s wife was badly bruised by an ice cube hurled by one of the staff last year though so be wary. Still - well worth a visit!

Cheers for that - apparently in some countries the euro has been an excuse to put prices up!!! As a `lager lout` lol I`ll be ok then!!! I was hoping Labeast would have gone but, never mind, there`s always Antonis appts and the Cavo shop to get my drinks from.............heh heh!

4 and a half weeks till we go.....and this is the place to eat.. I certainly agree that people should try different to burger and chips, but I don`t know how anyone can criticise that the food isn`t traditional - the only thing which makes Mermaids so different is cos it`s so popular you might wait a while and it`s a lot bigger than most restaurants.If you want palm trees and singers great - and that`s why I also like Paris - but for sheer value and high standards it`s got to be Mermaids. Try finding the massive peppered steak I had last year somewhere else for the price (about £4.80). Anyhow - 17 July - watch out for us scoffing the mixed grills. I`m the guy in the Chesterfield shirt (probably slouched in a corner in Angels lol)!

If you`re going in next few weeks tell em hi from the Chesterfield boys - be there on 17 July. Gonna do a bit on the decks I think too (Con??) a couple of times....hopefully won`t be TOO sloshed on all those cocktails - and there`s a load of new ones this year apparently. Stayin 17 to 31st - just look out for us four lads. You`ll find us lol. oh yeah, anyone who sees Brian and Heather from Angels last year let me know where they are and give em my regards, also a shout to Akis in Cavo. Much appreciated - tell him it`s Labis`s mate Chris..........he`ll tell you more.

Had a few emails about this place and sounds as though attitudes and things may have changed.......I and others had bad experiences last year with overcharging etc but by all accounts things may be different. Worth a try if this is now the case....

Jackie - is that Jackie and Chris from Angels? Hello if so - from Chris (Chesterfield)

I`ve never had a problem with Airtours - quick, efficient and good value for money. I would like to have seen the rep about a bit more but I`m sure she was busy! Totally agree with the last comment - the flight back had far happier staff who were more helpful.. seriously, professional as ever.

Hello to everyone we met there - Chris,Danny,Gav and Stu calling!!! Angels is the cheapest bar in the area, music for all tastes and is getting really busy again as we left. i did a bit of DJing there (Fri 19th and a few other bits) and it was great - decent people who wanted a good time. Don`t believe the rubbish that sometimes gets put on here - try it for yourself!

 Our group ate there 13 out of 14 nights - huge menu choices, the only PROPER steak in Kalamaki, good staff and superb prices. Look for yourselves - I`ve seen people waiting to go in Mermaids with the other restaurants nearly empty. Try it for yourselves - Con the owner is always on hand if you need to sort any menu requirements and you will NOT be disappointed. the mixed grills and steaks are specialities, but the fish is also superb. If you fancy something spicy, try the Jambalaya pasta too.....I could go on..... you see the same people back night after night - it is without doubt the best on the island.

cheers for that jenni - you made me go red lol. pleased you enjoyed it! I know I did - it was a great night. Anyway hi to all the lads and cheers for the laughs, also Peggy and Denise (cigar Peggy?) and I`ll be back in September, hopefully first week. Can`t be done with this weather here!!!! see you soon! By the way, anyone else who was there when i DJd a bit hope you enjoyed it too (except Big Brother night!) ultrasound@supanet.com

no mate - and in Angels it`s 1.50 with the card everyone gets!!!!!! When I was charged 4.50 for that Fosters there were 2 girls 11/12 drunk sprawling over the pool table. I avoided the place cos there was no-one in my age (31)!!!!!!!

This is the worst travel operator I have ever used. I used them last year and they were OK but this year i`ve heard complaint after complaint. The reps at the airport fobbed us off over a missing envelope, passing the buck and jumping on buses when they`d promised to look into it. We saw none when we were there, and on the last night we paid 20 euros to have a room till we were picked up at 3 am to return to the flat to find the suitcases thrown into the corridors, the drinks removed from the fridge and my case ripped. The reps are a disgrace and DO NOT CARE. I am putting in a claim and advise anyone thinking of travelling with them to be very wary. the flight, Astraeus airlines, was cramped but the food and service were very good.Don`t get me wrong our flats (Derekas) were nice, but a cleaner twice in a week? Thanks but no thanks. never again.

Mavis, the people below (who are a majority it seems) are stating facts as they saw them. I am someone who goes on holiday to enjoy myself - but I like good service. To go on holiday and be fobbed off time after time, to find cases thrown in corridors after the rep had allegedly sorted the rooms till 3am is just not on. Night flights don`t bother me, and like I said below Astraeus were quite reasonable, but the reps seemed flustered when they had to deal with 120 people on a Boeing 737!!!! I`ll tell you what there is a flood of complaints going in to Golden Sun, including people whose wife was 5 months pregnant and had to walk 3 kns to the beach as the accomodation was changed without notice, but above all the reps attitude stunk. One large woman with blonde hair and glasses looked ready to thump someone if they merely asked where the coach was. Repping isn`t just about pub crawls and flogging tours, it`s about customer service. If the customer isn`t happy and they complain and put things on the internet etc about it, people book with other operators and then the reps are out of a job. Simple.

hi Julie have a great hol. wish I was there!!! Say hi to all in Angels and Mermaids if you can for me, also Akis! No overcharging this year - a bit of surliness from Andreas but the food was good. Anyway have a great hol! ultrasound@supanet.com

I`ve just uploaded 2 photos on here - hope some more people do for reminders of that great holiday!!! Hope to see you all next year!!!
I fyou remember me email me ultrasound@supanet.com

come on folks upload your photos - I`ve added two!!!!
ultrasound@supanet.com

Wahey here we come again, the boys from Chesterfield are back on 9 July for 2 weeks, 6th time for me. See you all in the best bar in Zante!!!(and Mermaids of course), I`ll bring the CDs!!!!! Hi to everyone we met in the previous load of visits!!!

Here we come again, the Chesterfield boys back on 9 July for 2 weeks, see you all in the best restaurant in Zante (every night as usual!!!!!) and in Angels, I`ll bring the CDs!!!!!

A great bar for everyone just down from Angels, Akis (the owner) and George are brilliant. Akis has spent a lot of money on the place, big screens and entertainment and a great place for a drink. see you in July Akis!!!!

It`s the ONLY bar in Kala where I would feel happy taking my kids all night, plenty for them to do and the DJ plays music for all ages, kiddies to biddies!(sorry)!
Anyone going in July I`ll be doing a bit behind the decks and playing for everyone, by the way check out the prices compared to the other bars as well. It`s best value by far.

By the way hi Alison if you`re over there, you won`t be seeing you know who this year,I`ll tell you two all about it when I`m over there. She can troll off (good pun that) to Skeg for what I care!hehe

May see you in Sept julie, I know I can`t afford a hol after July but I`ll end up suicidal on my return and going back out! We won`t be in Cavo again, more suited to families than our group of lads which is no disrespect at all to the hotel and probably a good thing for the families!

(btw I see Cardiff scraped it lol, we Spireites scraped survival!!!!)

You find that people who post abuse on here either are other restaurant owners or liars. The reason Mermaids is twice as busy as anywhere else is because it`s the only place where all the food is fresh, the steaks are imported high quality and not the rammell served up elsewhere and the portions are massive, not to mention the excellent service. we eat here every night, I go to Zante twice a year.

Where would YOU recommend Mr Farmer? Agree with Sue. look at how attitudes have changed to the English in Laganas, and who can blame people? Brawling, vomiting, do we go on? There are SOME Brits abroad who do want to experience Greece for Greece itself!

well it was more accurate than your last description matey!

Well said Patricia, totally agree. Half of those posting abuse should stay in Blackpool!The other half should try and improve their own restaurants instead of pretending to be disgruntled tourists ;-)

I`ll leave this with one comment. I`ve been going to Kalamaki for 5 years, this will be my 6th holiday there. To eat in the same place every night in my last 2 holidays, which a lot of other people do also, says something about that particular place. Never eaten burger or English food there either, so get your facts right matey. I`m friends with quite a few people in greece but I don`t drink in their bars every night, to me quality and service is all important.
I`ll close things at that, anyone got a problem about it my email is printed above!

Steve Winterton, aka Tony Barker and Karen Winterton, interesting.

The girls in the shop (to the right as you look out of the hotel I mean) are great - they know me year after year `The diet coke man`!
Hi Julie, money permitting it`ll be another in Sept, off in 10 days for a fortnight and can`t wait! (well done the bluebirds by the way!)

Here we come again, next Wednesday the Chesterfield lads are back. i`ll be doing a bit of DJing in Angels too so anyone who`s emailed me or whatever drop in and say hello(look out for the Chesterfield shirts etc)....can`t wait for my 2 weeks in the sun!

Sadly just returned to England after a great 2 week hol (and an extra night in Zante due to the plane breaking down) - spent most of the time in Angels where I was guest DJ on 6 nights,Friday 11 and 18th July, Sun 13th and 20th and Tuesday 15th and 22nd.(Resident DJ Chris is the tall slim one, I was the tall stocky one lol).

Great bar, cheapest drinks around, a family environment and a great crowd kept it going each night till 4 or 5 am - big shout to Jim and family from Preston, Ann and the boys from Leeds, the Irish lads and lasses, Kate and Lisa from newcastle (howay), everyone else who made it so enjoyable, and of course Con, Nick, Nikos, Elliott, Emily, Chris and all the staff-the best in the resort!

I took some pictures which I`ll get up on the next few days on here..., anyone who was in when I was DJing please drop me an email, I`m missing the place already!!!!

Chris (from Chesterfield)

ultrasound@supanet.com

Just got back (and very depressed about that) after 14 days yet again, and once again 14 meals in Mermaids. Fantastic food, great staff, never one bad meal. We took between 3 and 9 people there on different nights and not one problem, everyone liked it. Can`t say any more than that!!!


Hi to Con,Adele,Yiannis and all the staff, see you all in September!

I`ll try again as my last post `vanished`. Just returned into the English rain after a great 14 days in kalamaki, ate every night in Mermaids and took loads of others up there too who went back again and again. Not one person had any complaint, every meal was superb. I dread to think what I weigh now!!!!
Seriously, the best place on the island by far, great staff, and a big thanks to Con, Adele, Yiannis and all the staff for making it a great holiday for us all!

See you in September!

Due to a computer failure on the plane we were delayed 24hours in Zante on 23-24 July. I will praise Airtours for sorting a very nice hotel and a (has to be said not great) meal in a taverna, in particular praise for a young rep called Melissa who seemed to be a lot more busy with the problem at hand than others maybe, but I think they need to put their feet down a bit with the Airport people as 12 hours on the airport over 2 days was awful and could have been avoided if a senior manager had taken control from the start.
Some people were put on other flights if they had kids but had to leave their baggage while 63 remained in Zante.
That aside, the flight out and all the transfers have always been good with them and far better than others I have travelled with.

First time for me in the Sirocco, the hotel is very clean and the rooms cleaned on a daily basis. The reception girls are very pleasant, the food and drink prices very good for poolside snacks. It is a mix of several European countries but there aren`t many sunbeds so with there being a lot of Germans there.........best buy a lilo and rest on the grass as you won`t get a sunbed unless you`re up at 7 am!
I was very pleased with the hotel, aircon is a real bonus and well worth a little outlay for. For the first time in Greece I had unbroken sleep every night as it was cool and quiet.

The only slight downer is one of the afternoon staff who took offence to us chatting to two Swedish girls he had an eye on, the girls passed the comments back and we were offended with what he had been calling us, but I would certainly use the hotel again!

Hi Akis, Alison and Georges, sorry we didn`t get in to say goodbye when you were around, missed you a few times! Back to the rain I`m afraid but will see you in September!

awful meal, lamb chops and chips served with warm drinks and a miserable attitude. We went in solely as Airtours had put us up in Argassi after the plane wouldn`t work(!) for a night, and what is it with Argassi that every bar and restaurant pesters you to go in? The waiter even shooed us off his step after the meal. Garbage.

great bar, good prices and very friendly, and the ONLY place in Laganas it seems where you can escape that RnB music crap!!!

I thought it very overpriced and cramped, took ages to get served and 4 euros for a small amstel is a joke. Never again! (Cheesey music too!)

How this has gone down in the last couple of years, I know R n B is popular but please why can`t it go back to how it used to be with some dance tunes and not 12 minutes of Darude as the sole offering each night?
I used to love this place but the music has turned it simply into a late bar, not a club. And YMCA and Staying alive took the mickey I`m afraid!

great little chillout bar, the girls are lovely and very efficient, good prices too, and well worth a visit!

the owner did us a great deal on a Kia Sportage open top jeep for 6 days, no excess etc. Best value hire so far I`ve had on Zante!

Kim much as I think you`re thinking of Safri duo you mention a football/carnival song, could be Carnival de Paris by Dario G from 1998, starts really slowly then speeds right up.

Just added the photos from 9 to 23/7 on site, including us from Chesterfield, Jim and co from Preston, the Irish lads and girls and anyone else caught on film!!!

ultrasound@supanet.com

(Had to get the one of me in the Chesterfield shirt on!!)

Not heard it but I`ll download it off winmx and see which one it is. Hmm...holiday songs. Rescues 2001 - D-Devils-6th Gate (Dance with the Devil). Rescues 2002 - Ripgroove v Insomnia. The only one that stuck in my mind this year (and makes me feel ill) is Justin ferkin Timberlake lol, played everywhere along with 50 cent and J Lo. Cripes. Still, back in Sep hopefully, in Zante even R& B is bearable compared to the raim etc here!

Dunno yet, might be travelling alone (I`m a big enough lad at 32 lol) as mates have no holidays left...see what happens!!!! Might need some looking after there!

Hi to the Guildford girls, you were a good laugh despite our noisy antics, bet you had a chuckle when you saw our plane still on the runway when you took off!!! We were delayed 24 hours due to computer failure lol!!! Hope you got back OK, shame we didn`t actually meet up properly till the penultimate night!

Course I remember you - from Norwich!!! I`ll be back in September even if I go alone, I`m having severe downers about being home!!!! Thanks for the comment - what time was it we finally left that night lol!!!!

PS Martine I`ll be seeing when I can get a booking in next couple of weeks!!!!
If you want to email me ultrasound@supanet.com

can you translate to English now please!!!!!!!!! Only joking, guess you liked it!

scary stuff what`s being taught in our schools then!

The song may be `Aint nobody`, originally by Chaka Khan and covered by Liberty X I think, anyway you cheeky girl I`ll have you know I went out dressed in hundreds of quids worth every night!!!! Proper men`s clothes too, not poofy surfer stuff!

ah yes of course - me being a DJ it`s embarrassing not knowing it, but I`m not into RnB! Now if you`d asked about some PROPER music (ie hard house etc....!!!!!!!!!)

Isobel it`s a different world in England, although there is some really moronic English in Laganas admitedly the fact is we are NOT like the rest of Europe!!!! What do the Germans call us - the InselAffen - Island Apes!

Well, I`ll buck the trend. In 2 weeks in Zante in July I had a drink on 3 nights, DJed for 6 (on hol), and enjoyed myself. The thing is it`s no good saying English men disgust you and then go to Laganas - you`d better off go to Tsilivi and pull a speedo-wearing moustachioed German bloke or something! Agree about the opinion the bartenders have of English girls, a lot of them seem to want to go home and brag to their mates how they`re in Love with a waiter only to find he`s said the same things to ten other girls that week!

Talking of things, how come all the English girls want skinny poofyhaired ladyboy types yet some gorgeous Swedish lasses we met liked real men (like me!!!! lol)can any English ladies enlighten me?

Right. First, none of you English girls should feel you have to justify yourselves whatsoever. I don`t come on and say that all you Scandinavians are blonde haired nudist lumberjacks with dodgy pronunciation.

Laganas is mainly English tourists, in other resorts (which are quieter) you see a lot of Europeans (and no I am NOT European, I`m English, thank you). This is because the English holiday is different to those of other countries. you wouldn`t see English piling up en masse to Zante Town for example to sit in the market square all night.

Regarding us English, some let the side down, both lads and lasses, but if people want to enjoy themselves then why not? If they want to sleep with others or not who are you non-English to judge?

I met some lovely and really attractive (Hi Martine!) English girls in Zante, so for someone to say they`re ugly is a joke.

If you don`t like the English, stay in Tsilivi and drink wine or whatever, don`t come down and slate us all.


BTW the song is probably DJ Luck and MC Neat - Masterblaster


Rant over. the English girls are great (even if they all want ladyboy types not real blokes lol)

If its the two I`m thinking of they came in a couple of nights when I was DJing, one was a Leeds fan (from london) if you`re out there you two you`re the ones who asked me about where to go on the first night you were there and then got very drunk hehe! So give these girls a message. I ought to be presenting Blind Date

In fact I think the webmaster would be advised to remove that comment about staff on drugs. I notice they didn`t leave an email address.

Right guess what I`m back for a week. Hi Martine, my PC has gone to the repair shop so I`ll be able to email you when it returns, may see you at the end of the week! Lovely weather at moment, anyone that`s flying out in the next week!

I`ll be there till the morning of Monday 29th!

Mate if you tell me what nights you were in I`ll tell you if it was me DJing, and if you can describe me you get a brownie point! Unlike the previous stuff I`ll take any criticism as constructive if about me personally and as the only dance music I played was on one of the nights at 2 am with 8 or 9 under 25s in I doubt it was me, but having played a mixture of 60s,70s,80s,90s,pop,motown,rnb,commercial dance each night I`m sure you found something to your taste, if not as I always said down the microphone that if people have a request or want a different type of music to come and ask.
Quick shout to all the staff, all the customers who enjoyed themselves - the Wolverhampton and W Mids groups, the Irish `Shirley Valentines`, the Forest Town group (sweetcorn in that?), the Nottingham lot...everyone else! Cheapest place on the island too!

7 more nights and 7 meals in the best restuarant on the island, the busiest in Kalamaki as always, superb staff and plenty of new menu ideas too. T-Bone steak was massive, specially imported like all the steaks. Chicken chardonnay was fantastic (had that twice), just try it and see for yourselves. A massive thanks once again to Con,Adele, Yiannis and all the staff who do a fantastic job, roll on next year!

Big thanks to Akis, he`s made a real effort with his bar and deserves some support, sad to be back home but a great week nonetheless! Hi to Akis,George and Alison somewhere back in England!

the extra night is the tour operators fault sadly, not the hotel or flat owners, I was impressed with Metaxa (even had shower screens!), Stelios was very helpful after some thieving taxidriver nicked my mobile, cleaners were round every day bar Sunday and didn`t disturb us, would definitely stay there again.
Aircraft noise never woke me once.

first time in 7 hols spent a full night in there, we were in till 6 am Saturday night, after the r&b dross some banging dance music, old skool to Mauro Picotto - anyone who plays Picotto gets my respect!

So as not to entice an argument all I can say is that as a tourist for 3 weeks this year who worked 8 nights in Angels I never saw any of that. Angels is very specific on not allowing the behaviour you mention, hence Nick looking after things. I`m aware that in certain places in Kalamaki there is no qualms about young drunk girls looking for their holiday romance it wasn`t tolerated in Angels at all when I was there, why else do all the waiters from other places hang round a certain other bar?

whoa!!!!!!! A man of my age???? Don`t bring ME into it lol

Hi Martine, hope you had a great time, I tried to email you but the email came back as your email box was full or something! Back to the wind and rain here till next year now!

emailed you three times Kris, try me on ultrasound@supanet.com

Could I recommend a good alternative site for these relationship problems........www.itv.co.uk, click on Trisha.

In the meantime, I`m still waiting for the guy who slated me for the nights I did DJing in September to tell me the nights he was there, the silence is deafening, hmmm.....

As the season draws to a close thanks to everyone who enjoyed themselves when I did a bit on the decks in July and September, shouts to all those I can remember (and all the others) - have a good Xmas etc and maybe see ya next year!

July - The Irish lads and girls, Adam from Manchester (actually a Manu U fan from Manchester!!!!!!) and co, Jim and all the gang from Preston, Anne and the boys from Leeds, the Cockney Leeds fans, Gaby and Caroline from Sverige (!), the Danish group (the girl who looked like Beyonce - you know who), the Brummies (and that`s a tale), all the rest of our Chesterfield crew, the Burnley bunch, Martine and mum (sorry forgot name), Hazel and the other Mancs, everyone else I forget and keep in touch

September - The Forest Town boozy crew, the W Midlands lot, the Wolves girls and lads, Notts Posse, the Shirley Valentines from Ireland, the list goes on

Last shout to all the staff, Nick, DJ Kris James, DJ James and fiancee), Emily, Nikos, Brad, Yiannis, all the others I forgot!

And of course thanks to Con and Adele!

Keep in touch everyone, ultrasound@supanet.com, hope to see you next year!!!!!

As the season gets to a close can I thank one last time Con, Adele, Yiannis and all the staff for the great meals we had here this year, 21 nights, 21 meals and up to 12 of us going each night, no-one ever had the slightest problem with the meals, back now to microwave meals and Chinese till next year (I really SHOULD find a decent girl lol), there were too many great dishes we had to name them all but thanks to everyone, excellent food, quick and friendly service, PLEASE open a Mermaids here!!!!!!

Happy New Year to everyone at angels and all the fellow holidaymakers - Martine, Linz, Hazel, Adam, all the staff of course! and everyone else!, be back in July for 2 weeks and again in Sept, also Kris email me ultrasound@supanet.com

(Martine, your mailbox is always full)

Happy New Year to all at Mermaids and Angels, just booked for my hol in July, coming alone this time.
Looking forward to great food as always, will be in Mermaids every night!
See you there!

Hello to Akis, Alison, George, back in July, see you then!

Er I`d best make it clear that she`s not referring to me!!!! I was there on holiday and did a bit of DJing, I think you want DJ Kris with a `K` lol

this is a message for Gaby and Caroline from Sverige(!) that were there last July, really would like to hear from you!!!! You emailed us and I`ve replied a few times, try me on ultrasound@supanet.com

Valerie I`m going on my own on 5 July, staying in Kalamaki, you`ll have a great time on your own, you`ll be well looked after by the local people, I`ve made loads of Greek friends over the years, the most loyal friends you can have I believe. I`ve been 7 times and my mates are doing Ibiza (more fool them lol), I`m doing some DJing in July but will be going out in Laganas and Kala too and chilling in the day!!!!
Lookin forward to it bigtime!!

Anyone wants to know anything or contact me or is going 5 to 19 July or thereabouts it`s ultrasound@supanet.com

when are you there Hazel,I`m going on 5th

If it`s Hazel Sarah`s friend, if not my apologies!

The new club next to Mermaid`s is going to be bangin so anyone who knows me I`ll be in Zante from 5th to 19th July, coming on my own this year but will be DJing quite a few nights in the new place, also eating at mermaids every night, hope to see you there and Happy Hols!

11 weeks to go, get the chicken chardonnay on!! Hello again to all the great staff, Con, Adele and Yiannis and co! See you on the 5th July, coming on my own this year as the others are going to Spain (rather them than me lol)!

Holly which Chris, the tall thin one or the tall stockier one? I was there in july and Sept, Kris was resident most of season till about Sept? remind me, memory like a sieve!

It`s the other Kris then not me Chris lol!

When you go back to Kalamaki Con has sold Angels and is opening a fantastic new club open mid-May next to Mermaids, if it`s open give it a try!

Got your message Pete and have texted Con to ask him, I know the new club next door Con has built is having plasma screens too!

Hi Alison and Akis, see ya on 5 July!

Neil, I appreciate that mate. In the past I have (both on this site and by email to the respective companies) praised reps such as Melissa from Mytravel last year and the lad from JMC last September after my phone was nicked.

There is some excellent reps, no doubt about it, sadly we found that with Golden Sun they didn`t want to know, this was a case purely on that holiday alone, I would certainly never generalise about reps in general!
The big lass with glasses 2 years ago from Golden Sun was very poor though mate and I will not change my opinion on that lol

When did you go Claire and which photo are you in?

alright all hope everyone has a great time, I`m staying here in July so if anyone sees a geezer walking around in a Chesterfield shirt don`t take the mick!
First time in Antonis for me but been in the bar loads of times and it`s great, pool area very clean too!

(don`t worry I`m coming on my own so those that know me the gang aren`t in tow this year lol!)

ultrasound@supanet.com

we went in September with Thomas Cook if that helps, very nice hotel too!

For anyone going to Kalamaki for the first time you`ll love it here, and I hope you all have a great holiday! There`s something for all ages, this will be my eigth holiday here and I go twice a year, the local people are brilliant and believe me you`ll make great friends who genuinely want you to enjoy yourselves!

If anyone`s going for the first time and need any help I`ll be glad to help in any way, email me at ultrasound@supanet.com

For all those going back (and all the usual gang) that I see each year i`m arriving 5th July for 2 weeks and will be doing some DJing at Kalamaki`s newest bar/club and it`s for all the family too), Plus Soda next to the fantastic Mermaids so if any of you want to find me I`ll be there or eating in Mermaids each night!

change as much as you can IN KALAMAKI, you always get a better rate and I save £25 last year on a spend of £600 just by changing over there instead of here. Agreed, Sofias is the best rate by far, if Sofia is still there this year make sure you call in, best shop prices, lovely family!

that`s the other DJ Kris who was resident last year, I did a bit in July and September!

Kris if you`re reading this email me m8

For anyone going to Kalamaki this year this will be the place to go, Con (owner of Mermaids next door and who used to own Angels Bar) has built it, a brand new bar/club for all the family with plasma screens, DJs, fully air con of course, flair bartenders, you name it, make sure you call in and give it a go!
I fly out for my 2 wks hol on the 5th, can`t wait!
(and for those regulars from every year I`ll be doing a fair bit of DJin there from 5th to 19th, see ya then!!!!)

well it`s nearly here again, I`ll see you all Monday night guys and gals, hmm, steak or chicken chardonnay?
Mind you it might be swordfish......

14 nights eating the best food on the island here I come!

Kalamaki tips and guides

Chris Chadwick June 2004(1) Zante airport

is very small and gets hot in summer. Take your own food and drinks for the return flight as the prices are extortionate. The duty free shop is often cheaper than the shops though!

(2) Bars and clubs.

The newest and best bar/club in the resort is Plus Soda, next to Mermaids, with entertainment for all the family, live DJs, fully airconditioned, plasma screens etc.
There are plenty of bars according to the mood, whether you want a quiet drink or a bit more liveliness!
I like the Cave Bar fror a quiet drink, ideal for couples, and always pay a visit to Akis and Alison at the Cavo d`Oro Hotel bar (not the pool bar but the one on the front) - say Chris sent you, great for a relaxing night!
There is a lot of difference in prices, Plus Soda will be amongst the cheapest as well, I`ve been charged 4.50 euros for a pint of Fosters in one bar! (never went back)

(3) restaurants

without doubt my personal favourite is Mermaids where I eat every night. HUGE range of dishes and all the family`s catered for, internet access and playstations etc for the kids! It`s the busiest in Kalamaki and all the food is fresh and the meat all imported.
Again, a good guide is to see which places are busy and which aren`t as people often return to their favourites!

(4) Money

The rate in kalamaki is always better than in England, take cash, store it in a safety box and change over there. Sofias shop normally has the best rate. Watch out for high exchange rates where they hide a commission charge.

(5) General wellbeing

Never drink or brush your teeth with the water, (and I never have ice in drinks),bottled water is extremely cheap. I take a Boots liquid mosquito killer to plug in, never been bitten with one of those in the room.
If you can hire the airconditioning if it is an option in your apartment in the summer, it makes the rooms a lot more comfy!

(6) Travel

If you hire a car make sure you get the damage waivers on the insurance, haggle and ask around. next to Mermaids is Hermes who I always use. NEVER hire mopeds.
When getting taxis always agree the fee before you set off, and never hire the horse and cart rides unless you want to be ripped off.

(7) The Beach

Rather than hiring sunbeds, buy a li-lo (dirt cheap) from one of the shops and lie on that on the beach, saves quite a few quid! You can also use it in the pool etc. the sand on the beach does get very hot, so take flipflops etc!(8) General

The Greeks are the friendliest people I`ve ever met and will remember you in years to come. sadly a lot of Brits let themslves down in Greece with slobbish behaviour, but give respect and you will get lastin friendships and will be well looked after!

(9) I always avoid Indian/Chinese type restaurants, firstly as I can have that for the same price in England and second it`s not authentic and generally poor quality. Try Greek dishes such as stuffed vine leaves, kleftiko, swordfish lemonato, the steaks, and Mermaids do the biggest Mixed Grill you`ll ever see for about £11. Their chicken chardonnay (although not a Greek dish) is to die for!
Tip well, it`s appreciated and you`ll be rewarded with extras on following visits

(10) If going to Laganas have a good time, it`s a party resort, but don`t go on the beach alone at night for safety reasons and the very occasional robbery

(11) Make sure you have your E111 forms before you go

(12) Greek people do get mildly offended if you refuse generosity or gifts, often I`ve been given a shot of a liqueur etc and have had to drink it or pass it on when not in view (!), but it`s a Greek tradition to be generous with guests, especially those with respect for the local people and customs!

(13) Never buy the tours off the reps as they`re double the price of the local run ones, and don`t do a full trip round the island by boat, you`ll burn and be seasick!

(14) Zante town is great for local gifts and souvenirs and has many authentic Greek bars and restaurants, check the opening times as they do have siesta etc

(15) Expect to pay a small cover charge (about 60 cents) per person when dining, all restaurants charge it and it includes bread.

(16) Cigarette prices are set by the government, there is little scope for haggling. BUY in Kalamaki not Laganas, some poorer quality cigs in Laganas that aren`t always what they say on the packet! Sofia`s shop near Mermaids is excellent, as is a tiny little shop next to the Sirocco hotel run by a lovely lady who is very grateful for any large cig orders!

(17) Aftershaves/perfumes etc are cheapest in the airport on the return journey, (and you can put them in your hand luggage after weighing along with cigs hehe)

(18) There`s a few stray dogs and cats which are quite harmless that you will see, some will trot into the restaurants, they are perfectly friendly and only want a bit of fuss or food.
You`ll also see lots of lizards which climb up walls, again no danger, they`ll run off first!Hope this helps, any info I can give email me anytime on ultrasound@supanet.comChris

taxis from the airport should be about 12 euros max mate, but it`s first come first served, it seems a lot of people aren`t bothering with transfers this year so get your cases and nip out and flag one down!

Hope the above helps!

whats happened here lol

email is ultrasound@supanet.com

if anyone needs any help!

I`ll be doing some DJing in Plus Soda between 5 and 18 July and in mermaids restuarant every night for my evening nosh so look out for a geeza in a Chesterfield shirt or just ask one of the staff in Plus Soda/mermaids if you need any help when I`m there!

(I should be a rep I reckon or work for the tourist board!)

you`re welcome Dean, glad it helped mate!

oh yeah, Dean, Plus Soda SHOULD be opening Tuesday 6th, loads of free shots, i`ll be on the decks, so you`re welcome to join the party mate, if there`s any delays to it I`ll post on here!

Grrr, back to England after my DJing holiday and all I can say is I miss the place so much,Con, Yiannis, Nick, Nikki, Louise,Anna, Sakis, Nikos you are all stars and have worked so hard to get things swinging in this great bar and club, also all the GREAT customers who made it so enjoyable, you all know who you are and you were the BEST!
(and thanks Brad and Lisa and all the others for posting your support on here!)If you`re going on hol now give this place a good go, we never finished before 4am and as a DJ the biggest buzz is the amount of people who came up and said coming in had made their hols!

I DJed every night (you know, the tall guy with the Prada hat and the gob behind the microphone and decks lol) from opening night on 9th July to last night 18th July(catching a bus to the airport ten mins after I finished.....), so all those wanting the CDs or a natter email me:

ultrasound@supanet.com

See you back in August/Sept to all the crowd!

Another 14 nights and 14 meals in Mermaids, tried a few of the new dishes (only 320-odd to try lol), fabulous food, brilliant staff and to all at Mermaids thanks for everything, I`m back in the land of reality (for a month or so till I get back), the best restaurant bar none in Zante!(and it`s busy because of the quality, to take tables out to make more room would disappoint a lot of customers who go back again and again!) Packed all night every night, and that speaks for itself, what other restaurant can boast that level of trade!

Big hello from England (doh) to Alison and Akis, George and Costas, the bingo girls (who would ever have thought someone would`ve got me having a go at Bingo lol), had my toasted sarnie or butty lunch here every day! thanks for everything and some fantastic laughs, if you`re going to Kalamaki give this bar a go, something for everyone and you always feel welcome and join in the mad nights!!

Good location but felt let down by the apartments (although I was in the old block), and I don`t often whinge on this site, came in after a night flight to have to spend 14 euros on cleaning materials and an hour scrubbing the flat, the toilet was covered in,well,I won`t go into it, mouldy butter in the fridge, linen was stained and the bathroom window had panes missing so I didn`t feel it was secure.The bathroom cabinet was brokem with loads of dead flies and insects in the broken panels. Saw a cleaner once in the first week, although I had a word with Kate the Thomas Cook rep who did seem very helpful and was available around the pool far more than any other rep I`ve come across in 8 hols to Zante and the cleaners came 3 times in the second week after that.

The noise factor isn`t the bar`s fault though, more certain English folk who decided to have domestics at 6am on a couple of nights....(and was THAT a story to tell lol) and the screeching from bars on the main road.

the flat (not Thomas Cooks fault I must add) was very grubby, but the overall service was excellent and Kate the rep was always on hand for customer problems, full credit to her as she was certainly the most visible rep I`ve seen in 8 visits to Zante, would defiitley use them again!

lovely pool, bar was good although I didn`t have anything apart from drinks there, no shortage of sunbeds for most of the hol!

ehup mate, been working DJ ing in town tonight, what a comedown,I`ll give you a bell Wednesday!

just for those who are going, have a look on the pictures!

and I added a pic with the lovely Slovakian girls!

I`ve added a load of pics as promised, have a look and stay in contact anyone who was there! (not many that`s too embarrassing lol)

Agree with Con, all I can say though is this, as a customer of Mermaids for several years (and I eat there every night of my holiday), and having seen the kitchens, the fresh produce and the steaks and fish (the steaks being imported daily), and if you look at the picture of the Seafood Platter I uploaded, I`m amazed that people could seriously fault this restaurant.If they do have a grievance with their meal, and as Con said it`s impossible to get things perfect every time, if you have a problem see Con or one of the staff, it will be more than rectified.
If there was more space between tables there would be a lot of disappointed customers, and in terms of the service offered by a superb team and the consistency and quality compared to other places it is second to none (and over the years I`ve tried nearly all the restaurants in Kalamaki except the very newest).

In England I work as a Sales Exec for a food company, and wouldn`t touch a Brewers Fayre if you paid me!

This year I had amongst others

Blackened Swordfish Steak
Chicken Chardonnay
New York Wrapper
Steak
Mexicana Burgers
Jambalaya pasta

As I was working at night I couldn`t eat anything too heavy, believe me the portions of the above more than did me for a night`s work!

In the past I`ve had the Mixed Grills, Pizza, Sole, Vine leaves, Greek Salads, Steaks (T-Bone to Rump), you name it.
Seriously if anyone has any problems speak to Con or the staff, but the queues of repeat custom and the fact that it`s packed every night says it all really!

shop around mate, they`re having a real price war at the moment, don`t buy off the reps straightaway at the welcome meeting either

Trevor, this isn`t a dig mate but why did you go to Kalamaki, you`re on the net so you must have found out a bit about it?
I agree about many restaurants pestering though, Argassi is terrible for it, every bar and restaurant and you can only smile through clenched teeth so many times before being rude!

came in late one night with three girls from Slovakia, the DJs were great and very friendly, had a good chat to them after they found out I was DJing in Kalamaki.

spot-on to have a few cheap bevvys, watch the world go by, bar staff very quick and friendly, ideal for those pre-club cheaper drinks!

excellent bar staff, very quick service and loads of shots even the first time we went in!

totally agree with Charlotte, one of the most welcoming places I`ve ever been to in Zante, and when I first went years ago, rolling in at 5am, we were still welcome.

Credit to Akis, Alison, Georges, Costas and Akis` sister for lovely food at lunchtime, they deserve to so well

and furthermore, as to the `seconds` comment, as a tourist you would know nothing of the Greek Seconds system, which makes your motives highly questionable to say the least. I ain`t having a slanging match with you on here, it`s not fair to all those working hard in the bar, so feel free to email me on ultrasound@supanet.com. Bet you don`t.

you certainly did Jenna! check out your photo on the photo page!
I`ll be in touch about a barmy night at the `Pier!

was that the `keeping it in the family` domestic heard by half of kalamaki at 6am?

superb post Patricia! In the days of the internet people and as most people have eyesight they can see for themselves before they go in if they think it`s too busy!

Hi Trevor. I forst went to Kalamaki in 1998 and it was very different, I`m as proud to be English as anyone but I feel that sadly in some cases the expansion (not just in size) of Kalamaki, I`m talking about the anglicisation of bars,shops etc and the tolerance of some pretty ignorant behaviour to local people by Brits abroad has maybe contributed to the points you`ve made, I know local people want to make money (I would too!), but it`s the same as if you go to a Chinese takeaway in England, Chinese people don`t eat any food similar to what they sell, it`s catering for the customer!

I will always love Kalamaki, I would certainly be concerned however if it expanded any more in size! I do think also that tour operators should promote it as a separate town, not a Laganas overspill which they sometimes seem to imply!

Karen, you get a life. I posted 2 years ago, it was only reactivated as Neil queried my points.

I knew full well what the flights would be. that was not a problem. However how would you like to find you`d paid for a room for the extra night and found your cases thrown outside, ripped and things stolen from the flat?
The reps at the airport and in general had a very bad attitude. I`ve never said that was ALL GS reps, I referred to the ones at the airport, and I`m not going to retract that.
Contrast that with the rep service from Thomas Cook rep Kate this year who was VERY helpful and available.

and Fiona as I posted below I`m not blaming all GS reps. The flat I got this year was the pits, and I`ve sent the photos to Thomas Cook of the loo covered in faeces, the smashed windows and furniture and filthy linen etc, but the rep did what she could. I was merely posting on my experiences with GS, which weren`t sadly satisfactory, not a personal comment at yourself or anyone from the company who didn`t have some part in a less than enjoyable hol!

and for the record when I`ve had good rep service I`ve written to the respective companies to tell them! I realise it`s a lot of hours to work for them and last year physically intervened when one rep was getting a barrage of vicious abuse from a drunken tourist.

It`s Limnos I think (sorry Andy, not being picky mate!),and you`re quite right about the ATM! I think they also have a phone outside for your calls home. It`s just down from Mermaids

Hi Laura, Andy, CJ etc, the pics are all there, sometimes the server is a bit slow so press f5 refresh and they`ll come up!
Good to hear from you all and thanks for your comments and taking the time to come on here and it`s always good to get feedback whether people have had a bangin time or would like something different!
Add your pics if you can! Everyone on here were fantastic customers and without you it wouldn`t have been the same, and stay in touch!!

Hi Karen, prob my writing! it`s ultrasound@supanet.com
I`m sure it was just because of big changeover if it wasn`t as busy ie people with kids coming in - get in touch!
Ehup Andy G, get your pics up mate lol

Hi Lee!
Unless you`re going for more than 2 weeks mate you`re best shopping around for a package holiday, you`ll pay less than flight and accomodation separate.
The guy you`re thinking of I think is Miri who is the lad who shows people to their tables, and his wife Emma is the tall blonde girl, Con is the owner, and you can post any message for him on here as he does read this regularly, if you want to email him it`s piggwix@otenet.gr

Hope that helps!

and was featured on national Greek TV as the best restaurant in Kalamaki while I was there if I remember correctly?
Coming out again end Aug/start Sep, boss has said yes to some advance hol so see you all soon!!

Ehup all, I`m back on 2 to 16 September in sunny Zante so I`ll see anyone out there then in Plus Soda, pay us a visit, can`t wait to get back!!!

My email Trevor, ultrasound@supanet.com

I`ve eaten in 85% of Kalamaki restaurants, that`s what I compare Mermaids to.
Amongst my customers back home to whom I sell are 5 star hotels, AA double rosette award winners. The comment about micro meals was tongue in cheek, humour not being one of your strong points. I tried to debate in a friendly fashion with you on the Resorts guide but you obviously hated your holiday in Kalamaki, not a problem if it`s not for you, but why pick on this restaurant.

As for the wraps you decry, there are about 9 sorts on the menu, not all are breaded.
And the seafood platter you slate, one item is fried, the calamari.
email me trevor if you want to continue this,I`m not doing it on here.

Trevor I debated with you in a friendly manner below but you have since been on the Mermaids site slating me.

my email is ultrasound@supanet.com

You obviously hated your holiday, fair enough, can`t please everyone, but I have eaten in 85% of Kala restaurants. I have often been in the kitchens at mermaids. Bet you also don`t know that under the restaurant are two huge water tanks for mountain spring water to wash salad etc in, not the tapwater other restaurants use.
Even the slush machine is filled with quality bottled mineral water.

the food is fresh every day, and all the meats are specially imported.

I think it`s extremely unfair mate that you posted incorrect points on their website.

Marie, got the photos cheers! I`ve lost your email addy on that paper so I`ll email you when I find it, thanks again they`re spot on!

evening Trevor, it`s delivered daily by water tanker. Also delievered daily are all the meats (imported specially), the fish is bought from Zante town daily, etc etc, email me Trevor if you would, cheers!

Alex are you the lad from huddersfield who wanted a CD?

sorry Alex, just seen your comment further down ;-)

So where`s this fantastic restuarant your brother owns then trev, can we compare it to Mermaids, let us know and I`ll call in for a pizza next time I`m in Yorkshire (there every week on business) and give you an honest opinion on the comparison

you haven`t read any of my last few comments then Neil.
end of discussion I reckon.

In the last few years I have praised on the net:

Airtours (and the rep Melissa)
Thomas Cook (and their rep Kate)
JMC (and their rep who came down after my phone was nicked)

Also have written to the companies praising all three of the above.

Read my posts on this site and you will see them, click on the tour operators pages. The only problem I ever had was with Golden Sun, and that was posted 2 years ago until you brought it up.
As for booking a 5 star hotel don`t be so childish. I`ve been to Zante 8 times and know what to expect.

see you all in September, booked again for 2 weeks!!

As a closing note I have received an email from Trevor and I think he feels the same as most of us that it got a bit personal and messy so I reckon that draws a line under the debate, and I appreciate the email!

Mike, explain a bit and we`ll see what we can find out mate

Ste, I`ve texted Con and he wil try and find out for you!

Anyone that`s been I`m going to be in Dennis II soon, what`s the best pool nearby and are the apartments secure? any safety boxes or anything too? cheers!

thanks, any more info you could give would be much appreciated, eg security etc and best pool and shop nearby!

Sounds like it`s been a fantastic few weeks, shame I had to go home in July after 2 weeks DJing!!!
Hope everyone that`s been has had a good holiday and nice to see how many people have taken time to come on here to say how much they liked the club, good on ya!

Anyway, I`m back on 2 September for a fortnight so anyone popping in in that time I`m back on the decks (see photos lol) and if anyone`s got any particular songs they want to hear for while they`re out there email me soon as you can so I can make sure I have them

(PS not `DJ Otzi` type stuff!!!!!!!!!)

See you all three weeks today!

ultrasound@supanet.com

Hey Martine if you want to come in my case I`d gladly walk round in my swimshorts for a week!
(Not that anyone else would be glad about it lol)

ATM outside Limnos Supermarket near mermaids Restuarant mate. Exchange rate normally 0.06 euros-ish higher than UK!

sorry should have said highter than UK for cash exchange, I normally take all cash as you can save quite a bit of money

cripes hope they sort it Mike, which airline was that?!! see if you can get a flypaper strip, that may help too!

Hi all back next Thursday I`m posting this from an interbnet cafe as my PC has died so I will get round to answering all emails before too long!
See you next week with more top tunes!

I`m here now and can I just say these are the nicest flats I`ve had in Greece in 9 visits, absolutely spotless, new kitchen equipment and good location, so anyone coming out you`ll be very impressed.

Fantastic!

Got my PC back on my return from a fabulous two weeks in Plus Soda and what can I say, the customers were fantastic, and I ought to mention them as they made it so enjoyable for me DJing there, so just to name a few!
Sime and all the Welsh crew, kevin,Paul and Lisa from London, the Sheffield, Newcastle, Cork, Liverpool, Hertfordshire, Colchester, Earls Court and Tipperary girls, Caroline and all the gang from Chessy, Eamon and Becca, the Man U fans from Stoke, Ian and Lesley, Joanne Steve and Daniel, the couples from London,Wrexham, Newport, Norwich, Bolton, Blackburn, Burnley, the Bristol family (and that table took some reserving!!!) and the lads from Donny,Danielle and all the workers from nearby and all the Greek lads who came in and enjoyed themselves and absolutely everyone who joined with us on some brillian and often late nights!!(and anyone I missed please let me know!)

Seriously though we had some great nights and Con and the staff have done a fantastic job here to make it Kalamaki`s premier nightspot with loads to do for everyone of all ages. Missing it like hell, I`ll post the CDs out for everyone in the next week and thanks to the geordie girls, Becca and Eamon and everyone who posted on here!!
Keep in touch everyone, my email is ultrasound@supanet.com!
Miss it all like mad!

I`ve never been in I must admit but can I say how WRONG it is for people to come on here and repeatedly make disrespectful comments about this bar?

I`m sure the owners and staff work a LOT of hours and try their hardest for people, and to anyone reading this don`t listen to all the nasty comments, try the bar yourselves!

14 nights, 14 meals again. Tried some more items off the 400-dish menu, chicken risotto, szechuan steak wrapper, Chinese stirfry, Greek chicken amongst others!
Superb meal every night, thanks to everyone and all the great staff!

now i`m back i`ll post a bit more, the flats are lovely, just down from the Exotica Hotel, loads of pools you can use, Venus was always busy and also I used Exotica`s, both very nice.

Lovely family, cleaners came round every 2/3 days (often I wasn`t back till 6am so tended to overlay though, my fault though!), not ONE mozzie bite as the grounds are well kept, nice and cool at night.

I`ll reiterate, the NICEST flats I`ve had in 9 visits!

just used the pool bar as my flat nearby didn`t have one but the food and drinks were good, cheap and the staff very friendly!

used the pool bar owing to not having one at my flat but very nice pool and bar, sunbeds got towelled up by greedy English who then went to the beach but alwasy enough, very impressed!

Great place as ever, Akis and Alison make you so welcome and treat customers as friends.Loved this bar. Back in England now, thanks for everything this year, see you next year!

I cannot fault Manos in any way, the reps were fine and very friendly, the flat was superb, the flights and transfers very efficient, and thanks to the rep who at the airport made sure I was well away on the plane from a particular couple who reeked horrendously in the queue OUTSIDE Zante airport that would`ve been checking in in front of me and sitting next to me otherwise!!

Thanks again Manos, £324 for me for 2 weeks 2-16 Sept wit no suplements? Fantastic!

Had superb holiday ending yesterday with Manos (part of Mytravel), it was fantasic value, beautiful flat and the reps were VERY helpful all the way through.
Well done everyone!

Yiannis has always done me a superb deal and is a really helpful guy, totally agree with the lass below, I use Hermes every time.
Cars are very clean and loads of choice!

Yiassou Yiannis - Chris (from Plus Soda)

Hotel bar AT THE FRONT is the one to go to, the nicest bar on this strip of Kalamaki, Akis and Alison and Georges are fantastic people and you`ll love it! I always do!

not me mate, sorry!

forgot to put the ratings in below!!! should be excellent sorry!
It`s always crowded due to quality by the way (re:post below!)

As someone who`s been 9 times to Zante I MUST tell you:

When returning to the UK take YOUR OWN WATER and FOOD!

Prices have now gone sky high, 3 euros for a little carton of juice for example. If you have a long wait I`d take 1.5 litre bottles of water per person!

The pies and sarnies are appallingly dry, not to be recommended at all, so do make sure you take your own provisions.
Also apparently they`re clamping down a bit on excess baggage now.

Don`t let it put you off the island though, what`s 2 hours out of a week or two!

forgot to add Duncan and heather, the Walsall quiz experts and Sandra and Bill!!!
see you all soon!

Stella, I`m sure Nikki did not intentionally ignore you or the lads at the bar, earlier in the season there were three girls doing table service, now there`s just Nikki who works her socks off, I helped out a bit (more like hindered actually) when the football was on etc and couldn`t believe how hard it actually was keeping an eye on everyone coming in and out and taking drinks out, if you`d waved to her she`d have sorted you a drink no problem.
Come in next time you`re in Kalamaki if you go next year and you`ll realise this, a lot of people on here have praised Nikki who`s worked very hard all summer, so to write off the bar with `poor` ratings isn`t very fair really!

to all those who`ve emailed me I`ll get round to it all this next 2 days, still getting all my post-hol washing done!

anyone see the tv programme the other night? crikey!

oops.....anyone hear chickens coming home to roost? look at my post from 2 yrs ago in reply to Mavis.....

I`ll text him and find out for you!

Hi everyone,
this is for everyone I`m doing a CD for, I`ve finished them today after having to put all my music back on PC and will be posting them tomorrow, so you should have them Tuesday!

Just seen the post from you Colchester girls, well apparently without the cap Daniel Bedingfield......oh dear.........! Hope you`re well! Sorry about all the postings on here, messageboard is down at minute for some reason!

Hi Ern, you aren`t going to believe what I`ve done but when I got my pics back I found out that when I`d put a new film in (I thought) I`d reloaded an old film, hence double exposures and strange images, only I could`ve done it...gutted.

I have got one film that`s ok and I`ll be getting pics up in next 2 or 3 days but sadly that pic isn`t in it, from what I could make out it would`ve been a cracking pic as well.....next year.........!

thanks for your comment though mate, hopefully you`ll be on one of the pics that I DID get done ok!

right Photos are up, a few have added some so any more please add `em!!!!
Sorry again for all the people whose photos got spoilt by my lack of ability in changing camera films, but all the more reason to get yours up!
(Cds posted today btw!)

Hi Becca and Eamonn and luce glad you like the CDs, they`ve all been received as far as I can gather but keep in contact all of you on ultrasound@supanet.com !!!

If anyone`s not received theirs email me!

your cd should have come Danielle!

Melissa if you were the rep there in July 2003 when the Skyservice plane failed on takeoff and we were put up in Argassi for the night then you were great, I posted at the time (see next page)!

see post below, I couldnt fault Manos or their reps in any way!

email me an address Jo with what you want!

ultrasound@supanet.com

mind you for rating hunks as `poor` I`ll do you a CD of Hey Baby type atrocities!

Hi to Con, Adele, Yiannis, Nick, Nikos, Nikki, all the staff from Plus Soda and all the brilliant people who went in this year when I was DJing in July and September, hope you all have a fantastic Christmas and New Year and see you all next year!

anyone who wants to email me on ultrasound@supanet.comChris

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all at Mermaids, 28 excellent meals there this year and hope all goes well for you all!
see you all next year!!!

Hey thanks for the compliment Kim!

Just to say Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to everyone on here, and esp those who came in Plus Soda when I DJed in July and September and keep in touch all of you!

ultrasound@supanet.com

Have a great Xmas and New Year Alison, Akis and all the crew, see you next year!

Chris

oops

should be ultrasound@supanet.com
Chris

Definiteky not! there is one or two stray dogs and cats but they are all friendly and don`t bother anyone!

Holiday Tips for this year!Chris Chadwick January 2005(1) Zante airport

is very small and gets hot in summer. Take your own food and drinks for the return flight as the prices are extortionate. The duty free shop is often cheaper than the shops though!

(2) Bars and clubs.

The newest and best bar/club in the resort is Plus Soda, next to Mermaids, with entertainment for all the family, live DJs, fully airconditioned, plasma screens etc.
There are plenty of bars according to the mood, whether you want a quiet drink or a bit more liveliness!
I like the Cave Bar fror a quiet drink, ideal for couples, and always pay a visit to Akis and Alison at the Cavo d`Oro Hotel bar (not the pool bar but the one on the front) - say Chris sent you, great for a relaxing night!
There is a lot of difference in prices, Plus Soda will be amongst the cheapest as well, I`ve been charged 4.50 euros for a pint of Fosters in one bar! (never went back)

(3) restaurants

without doubt my personal favourite is Mermaids where I eat every night. HUGE range of dishes and all the family`s catered for, internet access and playstations etc for the kids! It`s the busiest in Kalamaki and all the food is fresh and the meat all imported.
All your tastes are catered for in the resort, if you want a meal `out of the way` there are quiet tavernas also.
Again, a good guide is to see which places are busy and which aren`t as people often return to their favourites!

(4) Money

The rate in kalamaki is always better than in England, take cash, store it in a safety box and change over there. Sofias shop normally has the best rate. Watch out for high exchange rates where they hide a commission charge.(5) General wellbeing

Never drink or brush your teeth with the water, (and I never have ice in drinks),bottled water is extremely cheap. I take a Boots liquid mosquito killer to plug in, never been bitten with one of those in the room.
If you can hire the airconditioning if it is an option in your apartment in the summer, it makes the rooms a lot more comfy!

(6) Travel

If you hire a car make sure you get the damage waivers on the insurance, haggle and ask around. next to Mermaids is Hermes who I always use. NEVER hire mopeds.
When getting taxis always agree the fee before you set off, and never hire the horse and cart rides unless you want to be ripped off.

(7) The Beach

Rather than hiring sunbeds, buy a li-lo (dirt cheap) from one of the shops and lie on that on the beach, saves quite a few quid! You can also use it in the pool etc. the sand on the beach does get very hot, so take flipflops etc!(8) General

The Greeks are the friendliest people I`ve ever met and will remember you in years to come. sadly a lot of Brits let themslves down in Greece with slobbish behaviour, but give respect and you will get lastin friendships and will be well looked after!

(9) I always avoid Indian/Chinese type restaurants, firstly as I can have that for the same price in England and second it`s not authentic and generally poor quality. Try Greek dishes such as stuffed vine leaves, kleftiko, swordfish lemonato, the steaks, and Mermaids do the biggest Mixed Grill you`ll ever see for about £11. Their chicken chardonnay (although not a Greek dish) is to die for!
Tip well, it`s appreciated and you`ll be rewarded with extras on following visits

(10) If going to Laganas have a good time, it`s a party resort, but don`t go on the beach alone at night for safety reasons and the very occasional robbery

(11) Make sure you have your E111 forms before you go (see below)

(12) Greek people do get mildly offended if you refuse generosity or gifts, often I`ve been given a shot of a liqueur etc and have had to drink it or pass it on when not in view (!), but it`s a Greek tradition to be generous with guests, especially those with respect for the local people and customs!

(13) Never buy the tours off the reps as they`re double the price of the local run ones, and don`t do a full trip round the island by boat, you`ll burn and be seasick!

(14) Zante town is great for local gifts and souvenirs and has many authentic Greek bars and restaurants, check the opening times as they do have siesta etc

(15) Expect to pay a small cover charge (about 60 cents) per person when dining, all restaurants charge it and it includes bread.

(16) Cigarette prices are set by the government, there is little scope for haggling. BUY in Kalamaki not Laganas, some poorer quality cigs in Laganas that aren`t always what they say on the packet! Sofia`s shop near Mermaids is excellent, as is Limnos Supermarket. There is also a tiny little shop next to the Sirocco hotel run by a lovely lady who is very grateful for any large cig orders!

(17) Aftershaves/perfumes etc are cheapest in the airport on the return journey, (and you can put them in your hand luggage after weighing along with cigs hehe)

(18) There`s a few stray dogs and cats which are quite harmless that you will see, some will trot into the restaurants, they are perfectly friendly and only want a bit of fuss or food.
You`ll also see lots of lizards which climb up walls, again no danger, they`ll run off first!

(19) Check your E111 form is up to date. There has been a change in forms at the end of last year, so nip to the post office or you may get a shock if anything happens!

(20) There was a slighter higher rate of burglary last year, so when going out don`t leave any windows or doors open, it may get warm inside but it`s not as unpleasant as losing your belongings.

(21) Rose sellers. Not so bad last year, just say no and they`ll vamoose.

(22) You now queue outside the airport on your return if it is busy, take a hat and sunblock and plenty of water if a day flight especially. In the airport sadly there is no manners from many tourists, expect to not be offered a seat if you`re female or an older person/carrying a child etc, or to step over some drunken chavs lying on the floor. It`s only an hour or two though, so no matter what horror stories you`ve heard don`t worry about the airport!

(23) ATM machines - there is one near Limnos just near Mermaids

(24) Doctors - turn right past Cronulla Apartments and the doctor and chemist are there.

(25) Payphones. I found a corker rate-wise at Sofia`s shop. Seriously it is well worth even a little walk if you`re not nearby, fantastic savings compared to other phonebooths/mobiles.

(26) Mobiles. If you receive a call in Greece you also pay for some of it, be warned. If you`re planning on using it a lot BUY a Greek sim card, seriously.

(27) Supermarkets. I recommend Limnos and Sofia`s on the Kalamaki-Laganas road for excellent prices and service.

(28) Luggage allowance - apparently they`re cracking down on this on your return with some nasty penalties. I normally chuck away my beachtowel/ any half-used shampoos etc. It`ll save you a lot of money, you won`t believe how much you can actually bin if you need the space for your cigs and booze!
Think, you save about £28 per 200 cigs, same weight as a bottle of suntancream (£4 from supermarket!!)
Hope this helps, any info I can give email me anytime on ultrasound@supanet.comChris

Loads to do Nancy, you`ll love it...check out the reviews (and the Plus Soda ones, Kalamaki`s only club!)

The rep last year in my apartments (Antonis) was Kate, and she was excellent.

well, `Amy`, you put some hints up for people visiting then.

PS is your name Amy, I clicked on your other comments...

very sorry for trying to be a help to people coming to the beautiful island.

Good luck Ginge and of course Con and all the gang this year, will let you know when I`m on my way again!!!

oops. that`s better, couldn`t work out how to do the ratings on this new site thing!!

On my way Sunday for 4 nights, get the Amstel chilled!!!!!!! wahey!

Here I come, on my way Sunday night!!! See you on Monday folks, trying to decide what to have already!!

4 nights, 4 meals in Mermaids. Head Chef Dimitri`s award winning Moussaka is a must-try for anyone, never had one like it (mind you he caters for Greek MPs so it was bound to be good!)

4 nights just isn`t long enough but it`s gotta be a big `hiiiii` to Con, Nick, Yiannis, Ginge, Andy, Lara, Johnny and all the customers who were in there when I was (and for those in when I was doing some DJing you can contact me on ultrasound@supanet.com  (if you want to!!), something on every night in the outside bar for everyone, kareoke, quizzes, ladies nights, tons of giveaways, lots of daft games (and all those that took part in Nick`s games night were a brilliant bunch!!!!)  I`ll get all the photos up this weekend folks, now I`m back in rainy England!

Busy every night as always and you can see why, this bar is a `MUST` when you go to Kalamaki, brilliant friendly people (hi Akis, Alison and Marie) and something for everyone.This is the bar at the front by the way! see you all soon!!!

Stayed here for the first time this week and very,very impressed, beautiful big room with the biggest balcony ever (I`ll add photo this weekend), very cleanm, maids very friendly, Fortis and Danielle and all the staff make you very welcome. I thoroughly recommend this hotel to anyone!

This is just a big praise for Yvonne and Linzi I think, two Scottish reps who were eating in Mermaids in Kalamaki on Thursday night. Basically there was a rumour about an airport strike, I asked them if they knew anything, and even though they were eating their meal they broke off to find out the number of a certain travel agent I was booked with and also the airport number(even though I was with the other company and not Thomson).  A lot of reps wouldn`t have given too hoots (and certainly whoever was meant to be answering the emergency phone in-site for `x` didn`t lol). I hope this comment gets noticed, the girls were a credit to Thomson helping tourists faced with a real problem (we thought)

Never really bothered me in ten visits but this time it has. I`m 34 but was brought up that if a female, elderly person or especially someone with young kids needed a seat to let them have mine.

Forgot to add well done to the Basildon Crew who won the 2,500 euro rollover (and Sam wanted a Playstation Portable I think!!!!!!)

some holiday photos from 20-24 July!!!

some more holiday pics!

pics number 3 - the family from Basildon winning 2500 euros on the rollover quiz, Andy (one of the staff) liked the `ladies night` offers so much he thought he`d try a disguise, and dancing in the street outside!

Yammas Plus Soda style, and Nick,Emma,Lara and Andy (staff - miss you guys!)

Akis and Alison (right) ,  and Akis, Alison, me, Linz, Emma and Harrison!

Mermaids at 7.45 pm, best get a table quick!!! and just a small part of their extensive menus catering for everyone and with food from across the world!

Probably the biggest hotel balcony in Zante!! superb!

Jackie see the `hints and tips` section on the messageboard, I`ve also answered some of your questions there, anything else email me on ultrasound@supanet.com

Hey everyone should be back out in the next 3 or 4 weeks! Con, if there was a proper login system for reviews it would show which business posted that comment (obviously they`re jealous of something!).

Hi to everyone missing the club or going out there, there is a new Plus Soda site with contacts and forums and also ways to submit your music requests etc, it`s at  plussoda.proboards50.com if you wish  to contact them!

William as you have the internet to write a scathing review I take it you didn`t take time out to research the resort before your holiday, nor when you got there take time out to discover the lovely tavernas and restuarants both in and outside Kalamaki, preferring to wallow in loathing for the duration of your stay?

sally, if you click on the message board for Kalamaki (bottom right of the main page) you will find loads of tips and things to do, contributed to by dozens of very happy holidaymakers!!

I would only ever use two car hire places and this is one of them, excellent always!

bet a lot of you didn`t know but Dennis is one of the top cocktail artists in the WORLD competitions,why waste time and money going to Laganas when you have a far better time here with the real McCoy!

Brilliant night by the look of it, wish I was back there now, i`ll add some more to the Plus Soda site

And of course the staff at Mermaids have time to sit and monitor customer`s conversations? Give me strength.

see you all in 2 weeks or so, here`s a pic from 2001, one of the nights I rolled in at god knows what o clock, to chill out with Akis and co at Cavo HOTEL bar, brilliant place!

a view from the excellent Dennis II flats

Hi Gill!!

Hi Con, doing my best to get out on Sunday, I`m ringing the cancellations hotline tonight, I`ve got the time off work, just need the flights!!!

I think helen Kinch has made her point often enough, so Helen, where did you eat in Greece that you liked apart from Daisys. you seem to have a vendetta on Mermaids

for anyone going to Kalamaki it is a beautiful resort with the warmest people I`ve ever met. If you want to join in the chat about the resort come over to the JustZante messageboard, or if you need any advice everyone is glad to help on there.

If you`re in Argassi get over to this bar, you make what you want of it, whether you go for the music, the atmosphere, the cinema etc etc, but believe me Kev and co are so friendly and the beer ice cold, wish I could`ve stayed longer but had to get back, but this beats the others I`ve been to in Argassi hands down. Fantastic

3 nights isn`t long enough for a holiday but anyhow, had steak in peppercorn and stilton sauce, moussaka and steak fajitas, loved them all, thanks to all the gang yet again!

hi to everyone I met this week and of course all the usual suspects, great to see the Sheffield girls back again (and sorry I got very inebriated last night!!, but I`m a nice guy when drunk aren`t I lol!!), i`ll get photos up in next couple of days, cheers to Con, Nick, Yiannis, Lara, Darren and everyone, made it a brilliant hol yet again!

Just stayed at Vanessa for the second time this year, lovely room, very clean, the maids were very friendly and thorough and just hope Danielle reads this - who`d have thought that a nearly 35 year old would still be bleaching it at 930 am at the pastry shop - was that a night to remember when we all piled off clubbing, took me back to the good ol days!!

Con is the owner of Plus Soda and Mermaids next door!

Hi Heather, glad you enjoyed it there, I`m hoping to get back out before the end of the season if not next year, come on to the Plus Soda site and there are photos etc and you can chat with him and the rest of us!

some pics from September!

Hey Lara keep in touch and take a rest ok!!!!! Anna some pics are up on Plus website...including the `last night` ones, keep in touch everyone

a few more pics!

Ginge check the Plus site pics for one of the rest of us from that night our at about 830 am!

used TC twice this year, flights on time on all 4 flights, transfer reps excellent, Cabin Crew a good laugh and friendly, cannot fault them in any way this year!

Yes all the best for the wedding, sorry I didn`t get back this year, will more than make it up next year!!! This bar is a MUST for anyone in Kalamaki, it has to be a good one for me to end up joining in bingo!Thought I`d never see the day... all the best to you all for the wedding and the close season!

Happy Christmas and New Year to everyone at the best bar on the island!!!!!See you next year!!!

Happy Christmas and New Year to Con, Adele, Miri, Emma, Yiannis and all the fantastic staff here at the best restuarant in Kalamaki and all the best for 2006!!

Hi Melanie, there are more reviews on the Athina on their review page, and if you want to join the site messageboard there is all the info you will need on the resort, and the members on it are glad to help. Also you will find some of the regulars have stayed there and so will give you their opinions...I know one of the Moderators always stops there. Just click on the Kalamaki Messageboard link on the site`s main page

I`ve been to Kalamaki 11 times and have never had any problems with Airtours, always been good and the reps very helpful,

The apartments are excellent, you can use the pool at Exotica or Venus (1 min walk away) or any that you fancy, they are set back but 3 mins walk from the main strip which means they are nice and quiet. They are also spacious and very clean, you will love it here!

And fully backed by me as well, Yiannis is very friendly, excellent prices and great choice of cars

Although I didn`t know him sincere condolences to all of Aleco`s Family and friends at this terrible time

There are always plenty of taxis waiting, the ride is about ten minutes and it should cost you no more than 10 euros. Agree the fare before you get in!

Alright everyone seems that Plus Soda is THE  place to be this year and well deserved, the staff are fantastic and Con and everyone have worked so hard for this place to make sure you get the best night and holiday you can.

Should add - for those who have been there is the Plus Soda message Boards on

Well worth a visit, bar staff are friendly, DJs in 2005 good and a great place to finish off the night if you don`t wanna hear cheese or R&B, when I went last year it seemed to be funky house whenever I went in which was a good way to finish off the night on the lash!

A very merry Xmas and prosperous and happy New Year to all at Mermaids and Plus, sorry I just couldn`t make it out this year with being unable to get DJ cover for my venue here, missed seeing everyone and those fantastic meals and barmy nights in Plus Soda so badly, but hope everyone is well and will get out next year I`m sure....and Con, check your emails from the last few months

Hey Con Happy Birthday mate! The new site is nearly ready, i`m just looking at flights for June or July, hope all is well and wishing you,Adele and all the staff a prosperous 2007 season!

Hey Con, I`ll be out this year for sure! See you all soon..I`ll let you know when I`m going to be out there! Hopefully July!

This List is an updated version by Chris C for 2007 of those posted over the years and are his personal tips for visitors to Kalamaki! If you feel something should be added or changed, let me know!

HAND LUGGAGE

I`d advise anyone to check with their airline and Departure Airport as to what you can take currently, as it seems to vary from airport to airport, well in advance of going on your holiday, there are drastic changes so please check carefully!

ZANTE AIRPORT

Yes, DEPARTURES is small, but it is in the process of being rebuilt eventually and remember it is a tiny fraction of your holiday! The new ARRIVALS LOUNGE is open and running. On your return journey, take water,hat and sunblock in high season as you do have to queue outside to avoid crowding inside. Avoid the FOOD KIOSKS, they are extortionate and the food not good! The Duty Free shop up the stairs has a fridge at the back selling cold beer and pop at normal prices, buy from there.
Please be courteous, allow people with kids, older people or ladies to have your seat!
Regarding AIRPORT NOISE in the hotels, I have never been disturbed by it, in fact it`s enjoyable watching the planes coming in and out!

TRANSFERS, TOURS and REPS

A taxi costs very little to any of the resorts if you haven`t a transfer or don`t want to wait for the bus. I normally advise to book tours locally rather than the reps as they are cheaper by far, HOWEVER some cut price tours locally have been poor quality and so it may be best to book these via your rep, especially if it is a trip with any risk eg 4x4 tours, watersports etc, as there may be problems on insurance if you use a local company.
I would NOT recommend a full day boat trip, the potential to burn and be seasick is very high! If you do wish to take part in one please take loads of sunblock. Apparently some do not allow you to take your own food and drink on them so check first.

CAR HIRE

I use Hermes (next to Mermaids,ask for Yiannis) or Merlis (see Julie who is very helpful), and always check the small print! Always get the DAMAGE WAIVER and check it covers everything including underside damage (there are a lot of pot holes!!). I would never, ever recommend tourists hiring mopeds or Quads .I would advise anyone to hire a 4x4 and drive wherever you feel like it, it is a small island and you will find breathtaking views, traditional shops and tavernas and beautiful beaches, it is a fantastic experience to get out of the resort and do this!

TAXIS and HORSE and CART RIDES

There is a recommended price for any taxi journey, and here is the link

http://www.zantetaxi.gr/en_prices.php

The Horse and Cart rides are, to be honest, very expensive.
With taxis or horse and carts, agree the fare BEFORE you set off

GENERAL HEALTH

Don`t drink the WATER, it has a very high mineral content, and I don`t even brush my teeth with it. Mineral water is very cheap, stock up from the shops. I avoid ice in drinks, and anything like fruit salad etc that is prepackaged.

The best MOSQUITO KILLER I have found is the Boots own brand Liquid plug in, very effective and essential.

Please avoid HENNA TATTOOS, people have been poisoned and in some cases permanently burned by the ink.

Make sure you have TRAVEL INSURANCE and also the new E111 CARD, you can apply for the E111 and it is free, at your Post Office.

You don`t need any particular vaccinations to travel to Greece.

In the main summer months it is well worth paying for the airconditioning to cool your rooms.

EATING OUT and NIGHTLIFE

The beauty of Kalamaki is there is a bar and restaurant for everyone`s tastes. Everyone has their own favourites, and you will see the better restaurants as they are busy, people go back for quality and service.You can choose quiet places in secluded spots, a light snack or a takeaway if you wish anywhere in the resort. Everyone has different tastes though, so I always think it better if people DON`T ask for people`s recommendations on various Kalamaki forums, they may well have different tastes to yours....go where you think you like the look of the restaurant, try different ones, and see which are busy as people tend to go back for good food and service!

There is a cover charge of about 80 cents in most restaurants, it includes bread.



Please IGNORE some of the reviews on websites and try places for yourselves. If you have a problem with your hotel, meal, drinks or whatever please ASK TO SEE THE MANAGER, Greek people want you to enjoy your holiday and will do their utmost to solve any problems.Also the odd review that says Kalamaki is tacky, these people obviously didn`t get out and about and try different places!

If you have good service, please tip well! To Greeks you are seen as a guest to be welcomed, if you offer friendliness back (or the courtesy of a tip) you will be remembered in years to come, I have never met friendlier people in my life, and can count many from Kalamaki as true friends.

Remember you are 2 hours ahead and in summer very few eat out before 8pm, the reason being it`s just too hot!!!!

SWIMMING POOLS

You can use any pool bar you wish, but please buy your drinks from the bar whose pool you are using. Also there will be a crackdown next year on towels being deposited to save sunloungers when people then go off for the day, as happens a lot!
Another tip, buy a LI-LO, you can use it if no sunbeds are available and when you go to the beach use it to lie on rather than pay 7 euros a day for a sunlounger!!!! I also buy beach towels in resort for about 4 euros, it saves a lot of suitcase weight if you`re going for 2 weeks and may be over limit!

MONEY

The rate is always higher in Greece, on a £600 budget per person for a fortnight you will save up to £30 by changing your money in resort rather than in England! I take Sterling in cash and change as required.
There is an ATM Machine outside Limnos Supermarket. I think £600 per person per fortnight is more than enough and that includes all meals and drinks out!

SHOPPING

Cigarette prices are set by the government, Embassy No1 were 28 euros (about £20) in September 2005, you are allowed 3200 (16 boxes) to take home. Spirits etc are also 30% cheaper than the UK. I buy my duty free from LIMNOS (near Mermaids) or SOFIA`S stores, they also tend to give the best exchange rates. You can also buy duty free on the airport. Remember you cannot buy spirits and tobacco on the plane!Get aftershaves on the airport, don`t waste money on fake rubbish in the shops!Zante Town is good for a shopping trip with some excellent jewellery and clothes if you hunt around, just remember they close for siesta!

LAGANAS

I have to include a bit about the resort of Laganas which was a major news item in the press in 2005 and 2006 and had a huge detriment to the island due to irresponsible reporting, and not making any distinctions between one resort and the whole island.
Basically the tour operators shifted the organised `booze holidays` from Faliraki to Laganas in 2005. In 2006 it continued but on a lesser level as Cancun and others became the next `recipients` of this. Basically it is a Party Resort which like in many UK towns involves heavy drinking, loud music, big groups of lads and lasses and basically at night is a British Town with sun. If you wouldn`t go into a town centre here at night or take your kids, then don`t go. If you want something a bit more wild then give it a try.Laganas is NOT Zakynthos,it is not Kalamaki or Argassi or Alykes, it is just one small resort, and the irresponsible press must share some blame for fuelling the hysteria over this.Let`s not make any bones about it, the people to blame for this are the press who by reporting the sordid details encouraged certain types to go, the tour ops and above all the people who behave in these ways. News has filtered through in the last 12 months of the Police now taking a hard stance on improper behaviour and also that organised Bar Crawls in Laganas may have been banned, long may this continue!

CRIME

There is the very occasional problem with crime, but far less than in the UK, but simply behave as you would in the UK ie lock your windows and doors on leaving your rooms, be watchful on unlit paths late ant night etc. The Rose Sellers are a nuisance, keep an eye on valuables when they are around.

TELEPHONES

If someone phones or texts you you do pay part of the call, my advice is to use the payphones at SOFIA`S or LIMNOS shop, never use the hotel ones. If you are taking your mobile, ask people not to ring you unless essential, they can be quite sure you are having a great time! For big users, there are three options also to using your normal sim.

http://thomascooktv.sim4travel.com/
http://www.uk2abroad.co.uk/

or you can even get a Greek SIM if you have an unlocked phone

LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE

Tour ops have been a bit strict on this in 2006, check your allowance as some late deals cut the amount you can take.Leave any half used shampoos, shave foams etc for your maids in the rooms when leaving, they will be very appreciative, and you free up valuable baggage space.200 Cigs saves you £30 on UK price, a half bottle of shampoo is worth a quid for the same weight as the cigs! If you are over expect to pay about £4/kg.

ROOMS FOR EXTRA NIGHT

This is a very nasty trick pulled if you have a night flight and arrive at say 9am at your hotel, that counts as your first night. If you have a late flight back on departure, pay NO MORE than 30 euros for the room for the extra night, and if it is to just shower and store your luggage why not pool the cost with friends you`ve made on holiday!


FAUNA and BUGS!

You will see cats and dogs which are stray but are totally harmless, they are only wanting fuss or some food! You will also see lizards which like to climb walls but they will flee before you get near. The wasps are large, just ignore them and they fly off.The turtles are best viewed towards evening, please be aware that the beach is a nesting area at night and as such is off limits

Congratulations to Akis, Alison and all the gang, see you this year!

I`m still waiting for Con to get in touch about the myspace site we`ve set up for Plus, so don`t worry, you`re not being ignored!!! he`s just been very busy! Yiannis is there still, Nick is sadly in Oz, and it isn`t Rich this year..hope you have a great time!

Hey Con, yes Luce said you`d been really busy with the staff etc and menus, looking forward to testing them out! I`ll send you a message on the old forums this evening about the myspace! Here`s to it picking up for Kalamaki this season!

Hi everyone, the old Plus Soda site is now closed and we are now on www.myspace.com/plussodakalamaki

so remember to add us to your friends!