Marelen Hotel - (Accommodation in Kalamaki)

Tracy C           

My family stayed at the Marelen Hotel from 22 July to the 6th August. (including our 11 year old son and 15 & 17 year old daughters) We stayed in self catering studios which was ideal for us as we did not want to be up too early for breakfast. The studios were rather small however, we did not really spend much time in there so it didn't matter too much. They were cleaned every day and we had clean linen and towels every other day. Air conditioning is  a must and cost EUR30 a week.  The hotel gardens and pool areas were immaculate and there is a nice eating area where you can buy food/snacks relatively cheaply. There are 2 computers in the bar which was a god send for our kids who wanted to keep in touch with friends via MSN (9 Euros for 2 hours) and also a pool table which allowed us to have a drink or two in peace. The staff were friendy and helpful.  We found a wide range of age groups staying at the Marelen which suited all of our family. We would definately stay there again.

Kalamaki Resort - (Resorts in Zante)

Tracy C           

We liked Kalamaki. The Beach was 2 minutes walk away from our hotel. We hired pedlo's 4 times during our two week stay and on three occasions saw the turtles swimming in the bay.  On two of these occasions our children snorkled with them; They were so chuffed to have done that.

There are plenty of restaurants to chose from and were reasonably priced although we avoided those that served roast dinners!!!

Shipwreck Viewing Platform - (Places to Visit in Zante)

Tracy C           

We hired a car for 3 days and this is one of the places we stopped.  The views are AMAZING. We also went on a boat trip to the Blue Caves and the Ship Wreck. We thoroughly enjoyed this trip. We found it was much cheaper to go direct to the trip operators rather than book through your travel reps.

St Nicholas Beach - (Beaches in Zante)

Tracy C           

We were very disappointed with this place. Went on Banana boat which was EUR10 each and you were out for only 5 minutes and it was so boring - never got to fall off as driver of boat very sedate!!!!

Gerakas Beach - (Beaches in Zante)

Tracy C           

We came across this beach whilst exploring the island and went back there on our last day as it is so beautiful. The sand was clean and the sea warm, blue and safe. Shame the cost of sun beds and umbrellas were so high though. Declined as would have cost our family of five EUR30 which is totally over the top for 3 hours (which is the maximum time you are allowed to stay on the beach.

Porto Zoro Beach - (Beaches in Zante)

Tracy C           

If your exploring the island this beach is a must,  Its beautfiul; the sea is like a bath. In fact the sea is very salty and you can almost float. Snorkelling is good.  Nice bar/restaurant right next to beach but was expensive.

Artemis - (Restaurants in Kalamaki)

Tracy C  (30 August 2006)         

This restaurant was excellent. We went there 3 times during our 2 week stay. There was something to suit every body and the service was excellent.

Hera Restaurant - (Restaurants in Kalamaki)

Tracy C           

Great restaurnant. Great service and food. You must go

Pandesia - (Restaurants in Kalamaki)

Tracy C           

Your greeted along the road by this bloke who is almost dragging you in to the restaurant. You just couldnt get away - no wonder it was so busy. Initially the service was good but once you had finished your main course it was almost as if you did not exist - took half an hour to get the bill and then another 20 minutes to try and pay it.  Would mind but the food was disappointing. Wont go there again.

Paolo - (Restaurants in Kalamaki)

Tracy C           

Lovely food and good service

Parthenon Restaurant - (Restaurants in Kalamaki)

Tracy C           

We really enjoyed our evening here and would recommend it

Water Village - (Places to Visit in Zante)

Tracy C           

We were a bit disappointed as was a bit small. Not many slides so kids got bored after a couple of hours. If you go take your own food as very expensive

Marathonisi Island - (Places to Visit in Zante)

Tracy C           

We loved this - we went on a boat trip to see turtles (saw one briefly stick its head out of the water) and then we were dropped off at Marathonis Island. We stayed there for a couple of hours. It honestly was like paradise.  There was a little boat moored on the edge of the sea selling drinks/ donuts/icecreams/fruit.  Truly beautiful place

Zakynthos Airport - (Places to Visit in Zante)

Tracy C           

Tip - if your travelling with a tour operator and they offer to pre book your seats (approx £12 per person, both ways) then do it. Guests at our hotel were picked up at 7.30 am for a 12 pm flight and had to stand in queues outside in the heat. We jumped in a taxi EUR10 at 9.30 and joined the rest of our flight inside the terminal building and only had to wait about 20 mins before we went through security.  Like wise on your way out you could check in 1 1/2 hours before rather than 3.

The toilets in Zakythos airport are revolting - can't describe it without throwing up on my keyboard YUKKS (needless to say I held on until I got on plane.

Hyundai Atos - (Hire Cars in Zante)

Tracy C           

It was great hiring a car to explore the island. I cant remember the name of the company that we hired from but it was run by a scottish couple, who were extremely helpful and gave us some good tips. Cost was EUR100.00 for 3 days including insurance, fully air conditioned. We managed to see most  of the island which is so beautiful

 
It is VERY scarey driving in Zante as the local drivers drive fast and there are loads of ditches at sides of roads and not many barriers to stop you falling off.