Plakias Forums

Plakias => Plakias => Topic started by: Mark12345 on July 12, 2012, 12:14:05 AM

Title: Sun Beds
Post by: Mark12345 on July 12, 2012, 12:14:05 AM
Hi There , and hello to all the people who love Plakias as I do. As a regular visitor to plakias virtually every year for the last 10/12 years. Last year was a chore. I like many others like to use the nudist part of the beach up past Palegremnos. But because of new laws put in place by the new local government . The price of sun beds on the beach went up . So half the sun beds that where usually there disappeared . The only way to get a bed on the beach was to get down there at 7.30 am and reserve a bed with a towel. This became a chore. So does any one know if things have changed this year 2012 ? Have more Sunbeds been put on the beach ? 
Thanks Mark and Liz ( Swimming Teacher to Maurice)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: boxerlover on July 12, 2012, 08:02:55 PM
Hi Mark

I am afraid that it is the same situation as last year, with the same number of sunbeds and parasols.
It was fine in May/June when we were there as Plakias was relatively quiet and therefore enough sunbeds for everyone.

We were there last September, and know exactly what you mean. We were on the beach for 7.30am otherwise all the beds had gone. In fact some mornings we arrived before the sun rose. We were moonbathing!!!!

I reckon it is going to be the same again this September as it is the high season.

It will not put us off though and we are counting the days till we arrive on the 28th August for four wonderful weeks.

John   
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: ann5 on July 12, 2012, 08:12:07 PM
Hi There , and hello to all the people who love Plakias as I do. As a regular visitor to plakias virtually every year for the last 10/12 years. Last year was a chore. I like many others like to use the nudist part of the beach up past Palegremnos. But because of new laws put in place by the new local government . The price of sun beds on the beach went up . So half the sun beds that where usually there disappeared . The only way to get a bed on the beach was to get down there at 7.30 am and reserve a bed with a towel. This became a chore. So does any one know if things have changed this year 2012 ? Have more Sunbeds been put on the beach ? 
Thanks Mark and Liz ( Swimming Teacher to Maurice)

 Hi Mark and Liz
We were there a just over a week ago ..I counted 36 sunbeds in the main part with a few more by the trees..
We arrived on the beach by 10.30 most days and there were beds available ...having said this it was windy for most of the 2 weeks so maybe others had travelled to the nearby beaches instead.People came and went during the day freeing up beds .

We ve been to Plakias often in September and didnt enjoy having to "rush" to get a bed..

The non nudist section remained almost empty on most days because of the wind ....Good job the naturists  are dedicated ... they always  keep the sunbed  rent coming in for  that part of the beach !

Enjoy your hols

Ann


Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mark12345 on July 12, 2012, 11:41:38 PM
Oh Dear Oh Dear Oh Dear. Thought that might happen. Georgo in Palegremnos said he and his family were going to make sure there where more beds this year. But doesn't look like there will be. I dont feel like getting up at 6am to get to the beach just to make sure i have a bed. Many Norwegians (nothing against Norwegians-lovely people) arrived on the beach last year and we regular Brits got pushed out . I love Plakias as Bille says in her post it's like going home ! Its not like another holiday but I'm wondering now whether to look for something else this year . Could be that they have cooked the Goose (and those of you that go to plakias a lot will know what I mean ! I think there is only one left ! ) No wonder the Greek Economy is dire straights ! Keep the simple things simple !  Look after the people who bring you money year after year !
If anyone has any more news please post it as soon as possible . Many Thanks. Mark
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Bertie on July 13, 2012, 06:57:21 AM
Mark
I know I shouldn't say this the Pakias Forum (I love Plakias just as much as you do) but if you do want to look for somewhere else, try Paliochora. The nude "end" of the sandy beach there is just as good as Plakias and there are always plenty of sun beds with friendly attendants who keep the beach clean daily.
Also, it's a lovely little town with all the amenities. It's only problem is it's position; you really need to fly to Chania.
I've just spent a fabulous week there and would have gone on to Plakias but family problems prevented me staying away.
If the locals don't get it then maybe, we should "vote with our feet"- (bare ones).
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: bwian on July 14, 2012, 10:51:47 AM
Leaving towels on sun beds to "book them"? I thought all that had died out in the 1980s!! That's very irritating for those of us staying at the far end of Plakias from the beach who can hardly do the half hour walk in each direction to try to beat the lounger-towellers!

bwian  :(
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mark12345 on July 14, 2012, 11:56:21 AM
Hello again peps. Thanks very much for posting replies. I have today booked my flight to Chania/Souda. Had to be quick . Prices where going up and up before my very eyes. I tried every trick in the book to get cheaper flights from Manchester on the 28th August but without success.Flights to Heraklion went up £ 60 with Monarch in a matter of an hour !
So I've booked to go back to ........... Plakias ".......... Couldn't stay away ! I did look into going to Palehora I was very close to booking it until I saw on some webcams that it was even more windy than Plakias !
If there is trouble with the beds well I'll just have to get up when the cock crows ! AGAIN ! Ha lol
See you all in plakias on the 28th August
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Arnaki on August 03, 2012, 10:08:09 PM
We were in Plakias from 10-24 July and found the whole place much quieter than expected - we normally go for the last two weeks in August.  The far end was pretty quiet most of the time, with sun beds available if you needed them.  As "freelance" sunbathers (we tend to go down early or late for a fairly short time and just put our towels down on the beach) I am quite glad that there weren't many sunbeds out, as it is annoying to see rows and rows of empty sunbeds.  However I can understand that you wouldn't want to be rushing to claim a sunbed.

However, I would like to stick up for the two guys working on the beach and the sunbeds at the far end, as they were working really hard to keep the place clean no matter what time we were there, raking the sand for cigarette butts and other detritus left by inconsiderate humans, watering the dunes to help the grasses to grow and even watering the sand to reduce the sand-blasting on windy days (it didn't work as the wind kept changing direction).  One morning a couple of horse riders came down and one of the men stopped them - my Greek was not up to understanding much of what was said, but the gist was "Don't ride on our beach".  One of the horses answered a call of nature, and after some discussion and arm waving one of the riders got off and simply kicked a hole in the sand at the water's edge and kicked the poo into it and covered it with sand, and rode off.  I don't suppose horse riders carry a pooper-scooper.  The two men to their credit dug it out and cleared it away, avoiding a nasty mess for people walking along the water's edge in their bare feet.

So I say three cheers to the people who work to clear up other people's mess and keep the beach clean, even if they do not supply enough sunbeds for some people's liking.  We're going back for a week on 28 August, and I bet it will be wall to wall sunbeds at the far end!

Arnaki
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike from Sussex on August 04, 2012, 12:43:44 AM

So I say three cheers to the people who work to clear up other people's mess and keep the beach clean, even if they do not supply enough sunbeds for some people's liking.  We're going back for a week on 28 August, and I bet it will be wall to wall sunbeds at the far end!

Arnaki

The problem with the lack of sunbeds does not lie with the providers, but with the licensing. Last year the number of sunbeds licenced at the far end had been significantly reduced from previously, but also those actually provided were crammed together. The man collecting the money, who had paid for the license, told me that this was all in accordance with the licence and when he had spread the beds out a bit due to customer comments, he had been threatened with a large fine, so moved them back again.

As I said in another thread, you would not expect the authorities to be trying to drive tourists away when the Greek economic situation is so dire.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Rogataber on August 05, 2012, 09:33:50 PM
We have been to Plakias over many (>30 years) but are unlikely to go again due to the new attitude to facilities on the far-end!

Roger
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John Gloucester on August 07, 2012, 09:04:46 PM
Having read the various postings this year regarding the sun beds at the far end, I contacted a friend who visited Plakias earlier this year he has confirmed the number of beds at the far end is the same as last year however they are well spaced out. My wife and I first visited Plakias in 1995 and have been once and sometimes twice every year since, we are returning again in September this year but are coming to the same conclusion expressed by others on the forum, that it is time to seek a new destination for our September/October all over top up of sun.

I make this plea to any business people in Plakias who read this Forum. SORT OUT THE PEOPLE IN POWER WHO HAVE DECREED THAT PLAKIAS IS NOT ALLOWED TO SUPPLY THE QUANTITY OF SUN BEDS REQUIRED TO KEEP IT'S FAR END NATURIST VISITORS HAPPY AND RETURNING YEAR AFTER YEAR and get them to do it before September this year. Or Plakias may find many of us visit towards the end of the season do not return to Plakias in 2013 and beyond. We want to spend our money in Plakias don't send us and our money elsewhere by taking away what brought us back year after year!!!

Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Robin Young on August 07, 2012, 10:09:32 PM
What about the legality of the situation?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: ann5 on August 07, 2012, 11:46:40 PM
We agree with you ..surely its upto the local people to keep Plakias attractive to all its visitors.There are several sunbed sections but it cant be a coincidence that its the naturist end thats the best supported.  I would say its upto the local businesses ,in particular the Paligremnos  to point this out to the powers that be ......we as a couple along with many  others have spent many euros at their resturant at lunchtime ,at the beach bar later  and on renting their far end sunbeds.We have  also visited  similar but not as good beaches in Skiathos,Rhodes and Gran Canaria etc  with many sunbeds to hire . Whilst we adore Plakias have a  feeling "they" are trying to push naturists out ....   
  [quote author=John Gloucester
Having read the various postings this year regarding the sun beds at the far end, I contacted a friend who visited Plakias earlier this year he has confirmed the number of beds at the far end is the same as last year however they are well spaced out. My wife and I first visited Plakias in 1995 and have been once and sometimes twice every year since, we are returning again in September this year but are coming to the same conclusion expressed by others on the forum, that it is time to seek a new destination for our September/October all over top up of sun.

I make this plea to any business people in Plakias who read this Forum. SORT OUT THE PEOPLE IN POWER WHO HAVE DECREED THAT PLAKIAS IS NOT ALLOWED TO SUPPLY THE QUANTITY OF SUN BEDS REQUIRED TO KEEP IT'S FAR END NATURIST VISITORS HAPPY AND RETURNING YEAR AFTER YEAR and get them to do it before September this year. Or Plakias may find many of us visit towards the end of the season do not return to Plakias in 2013 and beyond. We want to spend our money in Plakias don't send us and our money elsewhere by taking away what brought us back year after year!!!


[/quote]
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike from Sussex on August 08, 2012, 12:43:48 PM
We agree with you ..surely its upto the local people to keep Plakias attractive to all its visitors.There are several sunbed sections but it cant be a coincidence that its the naturist end thats the best supported.  I would say its upto the local businesses ,in particular the Paligremnos  to point this out to the powers that be ......we as a couple along with many  others have spent many euros at their resturant at lunchtime ,at the beach bar later  and on renting their far end sunbeds.We have  also visited  similar but not as good beaches in Skiathos,Rhodes and Gran Canaria etc  with many sunbeds to hire . Whilst we adore Plakias have a  feeling "they" are trying to push naturists out ....   
 

I understand your sentiments, but must point out that the folks at the Paligremnos do not run the sun beds at the far end. The local authority sell licences to operate sun beds on a season by season basis. The reason Fredi stopped servicing the far end is that the price of a licence was increased and the man who employed Fredi decided not to renew and sold the beds to the next licensee. The new man told me that he could not make a return on his costs if he employed anyone, so did everything himself, leaving Fredi looking for opportunities as a waiter.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike G on August 08, 2012, 01:41:08 PM
It is sad to read that several Plakias regulars are thinking of not returning owing to the far end sunbed situation. It is clear from posts I have read (plus my own experience in May) that Plakias is having a quiet season anyway and could do with a boost.

There is a limit to the number of beds that the far end can cope with as those many visitors who don't want to use them have to be accommodated as well. However, a few more could easily be fitted in.

Let us hope common sense prevails before too many join the exodus.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike from Sussex on August 08, 2012, 07:40:17 PM
It is sad to read that several Plakias regulars are thinking of not returning owing to the far end sunbed situation. It is clear from posts I have read (plus my own experience in May) that Plakias is having a quiet season anyway and could do with a boost.

There is a limit to the number of beds that the far end can cope with as those many visitors who don't want to use them have to be accommodated as well. However, a few more could easily be fitted in.

Let us hope common sense prevails before too many join the exodus.

Mike

Dear namesake  :)

Even during the busiest I have seen it, the far end was well able to accommodate all comers. The problem is that the number of beds has been reduced from the level during the noughties. This is a problem for OAP couples like us; we cannot lie on the sand for very long before the joints start complaining. Until recently there was no worry obtaining beds until 10am or so, to have to bag something before 8am is not condusive to a relaxing holiday.

As you say, hope common sense prevails.

The alternative Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John R on August 08, 2012, 08:50:56 PM
I was told that the new sun bed numbers and positions were in fact how the licencing has officially been  since long time back but was ignored until recently when some official decided to tighten things up and apply the licence conditions. This may or may not be true.

I am a none beach person and as such might occasionally be liable to moan about too many beds spoiling the looks of a beach. However I thought that the reduction in beds (all through - not just the far end) looked ridiculous compared with the vast expanse of beach available. There is scope for far more beds - and sensibly spread out on a beach that size.

John
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike from Sussex on August 09, 2012, 12:53:54 PM
I was told that the new sun bed numbers and positions were in fact how the licencing has officially been  since long time back but was ignored until recently when some official decided to tighten things up and apply the licence conditions. This may or may not be true.

I am a none beach person and as such might occasionally be liable to moan about too many beds spoiling the looks of a beach. However I thought that the reduction in beds (all through - not just the far end) looked ridiculous compared with the vast expanse of beach available. There is scope for far more beds - and sensibly spread out on a beach that size.

John

Hi John,

You are most probably correct. I agree on the beach, even with the number of beds from town out to the far end a couple of years back there was probably over 80% free of any clutter.

It would do the local economy better if the reaction had been to adjust the licences, rather than the jobworth banality which occurred.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mark12345 on August 12, 2012, 08:35:51 PM
Hello My Friends.

Thank You for posting replies to my question. There have been some intersting replies.

I think for all of us regulars who go to Plakias (and some of you have been going 30 years !!) we like/d Plakias just the way it is/was.

What we all have to accept is that, because of the credit crash, things have changed !! Not least the situation with the Sunbeds up the top end. (Sofia's,Nicos,Ostrka Bar etc....etc)

Someone rightly said that the licences changed for the beds and the guy who is running them now is only prepared to have half the number of beds as there used to be. (Only because of cost) The problem in Sept  when most British naturist go is there, is now there are not enough beds to accomodate us all. Palegremons let some of their beds be used be Naurists as long as they were away from the bar and Greek Families. Understandable.

When I was there last year Yorgo (from Palegremons) said that they would look into getting more beds for this year. Clearly this is not the case.What I think Yorgo was saying is that they would let people use their beds. !!

I take the point that there has not been a problem with the beds so far this year but this has always been the case. The only time the Naturist beach is busy is in August/Sept. Just ask Freddi ! (Arsenal Who ? ha )

Last year there was a problem with the beds not being there and then being too close together !  There was an interesting battle going on with a few regulars about this, with even a letter going to the new Mayor. Things got sorted out very quickly.( well quickly for greeks that is !!)

Its going to an interesting Battle again this year getting up early enough to get a bed. But we Brits will go for GOLD !! and beat the Norwegians/Dutch/Austrains/Poles/Ukranians/Cechs. On your Marks, Get set.................Go....

What ever happens with the Sunbed situation and the beach we should remember that we go to Plakias to see our Friends, Greek and others,We go for the food !! We go for the sea air and lets face it Plakias will always be there. Its just fustrating that things have changed.

There are other Naturist beaches near by to go to of course Souda being one.

I think alot us have thought about going elsewhere. Some of us will have been. But one things for sure Sunbeds or not We will return perhaps not as frequently as before.

After looking around, lots of other destinations ,we are going back to Plakias on 28th August 2012 for 2 weeks. See you all there (But don't get on the beach before me !! ha)

Haven't the Olympics been BRILLIANT !!!! Rule Britainia
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Sunny Jim on August 13, 2012, 09:17:12 AM
Perhaps the locals see the advantage of restoring the whole beach to family use and not having one particular group  dominating a particular section of the beach?
 Plakias being the type of place that it is would surely benefit from an influx of new visitors if they were assured the whole beach was available for visiting or local families without embarassment   :)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Daniel on August 13, 2012, 08:25:02 PM
A welcome and alternative view and one with which we have some sympathy.

And the "far end" is by far the best and safest area of the beach on which to let children swim and play.

Plakias is changing, as all resorts will over time, and not all of the changes are for the worse.

Maybe opening up all the of the beach to all kinds of visitors is a change which the local poulation see as an improvement which will bring in more and more varied holiday makers to the town ?

As for us, well we have voted with our feet and our wallets.

It was Skiathos in May and will be Stoupa in early September.

But  it was not the beach or the sunbeds or the weather or the changes to the town which made us change.

It is the distance from either of the 2 airports to Plakias which is the problem.
The drive from Heraklion and or Chania is one which I can do without at my age.

Taxi charges too and from Plakias ?

And the coach transfer if using Olympic ?
3 or 4 hours on a coach.
Sorry, but not for us.

We feel that we may have seen the best of Plakias and maybe it is time to move on ?




Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 13, 2012, 09:18:16 PM
As regular visitors to Plakias virtually every year since 1992 and almost always having stayed at the wonderful Stella Studios run by the welcoming Brokalakis family we have some sympathy with the thoughts of Sunny Jim and Daniel. As people who enjoy some time on the beach and in the sea but who don't seek an "overall tan" we have often questioned why a minority group is allowed to have the best part of the Plakias beach reserved for its own use rather than general and family use etc.

Nothing is indeed forever and perhaps some locals in Plakias would be keen to open up the whole beach to general use to attract new visitors.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John Gloucester on August 13, 2012, 09:32:22 PM
Hello to eveyone who has made a posting since my previous posting this year on the subject of sun beds,

I very much respect the views of Daniel and Sunny Jim who are obviously not naturists but I would stress to them both, that I am sure all genuine naturist would never wish to cause offence to any other person. The far end was established well before my wife and I came to Plakias for the first time time in June 1995 and I am sure it was at the Far End for that very reason. (Away from the village not to cause offence, likewise with Souda the Naturist section is at the oposite end of the beach from the Travern's.) We see no reason why Naturist and Textiles cannot enjoy the the same beach it happens in many other European countries, we are all the same, God made us Nude, Man made it Rude.

The main reason for my earlier posting was an effort to trasmit a message to the the business people of Plakias that the actions of some offical department is in danger damaging to their business, it is only them who can take the views of the visitors to the powers that be, they know who they are and how to contact them, if they wish to retain our custom year after year, they need to continue to provide the facilities that brought us to Plakias in the first instance, not remove them.


 
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Sunny Jim on August 13, 2012, 10:08:26 PM
Quote
I very much respect the views of Daniel and Sunny Jim who are obviously not naturists

Why obviously ?

In actual fact I am, but freely admit I prefer smaller beaches with more privacy and have no desire to make others who are not either embarrassed or a  uncomfortable when  they arrive on the beach. Since us naturists are in the minority I dont feel that on a beach such as Plakias we should dominate the best and safest part, in this case the far end. 
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 13, 2012, 10:17:21 PM
Well said Sunny Jim. Your stance, seeing the bigger picture, deserves much praise. We have nothing whatsoever against naturists (which we are not), but feel it would be far better if the best part of Plakias beach as well as the rest was a place all felt comfortable using.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike G on August 14, 2012, 01:36:52 PM
As people who enjoy some time on the beach and in the sea but who don't seek an "overall tan" we have often questioned why a minority group is allowed to have the best part of the Plakias beach reserved for its own use rather than general and family use etc.
The far end of Plakias beach is open to all and has been on all of my visits over 17 years.

There seems to be an implication from a couple of postings in this thread that Plakias would benefit if naturists were excluded from the far end. Economically this would be a disaster for the town. For evidence of this you only have to look at what happened to Scala, Kefalonia where just such a thing happened in the early 2000s and the place has never recovered.

As detailed by Daniel, Plakias will always have the problem that it is so far from the airports, although many believe this is one reason why is hasn't become spoilt. It doesn't need another reason for regulars to look elsewhere.

IMHO opinion the only resorts that come anywhere near Plakias as far as my requirements (good beach, good walks, pleasant scenery, friendly locals/ taverna owners) go are Tingaki, Kos and Petra, Lesvos. If others know good ones then I would be interested to hear them.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 14, 2012, 02:40:29 PM
It would obviously only be an "economic disaster" for Plakias if any loss of naturist related business wasn't offset by an increase in general tourists, which could well happen.

The best bit of Plakias beach, at the far end, might in theory be open to all, but hardly in practice.

In the meantime, we'll continue to be amused by those sneeking onto the beach at the crack of dawn with their towels to stake their claim to sunbeds. The poor Germans have long been the but of such jokes, but now it seems to be a multi-national Olympic sport.

As independent travellers we don't mind the drive from and to Heraklion and the distance does help to keep Plakias less negatively affected than other more easily accessible resorts.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: kayisi on August 14, 2012, 06:24:10 PM
And the coach transfer if using Olympic ?
3 or 4 hours on a coach.
Quote

Sorry to see all the steam being generated about the far end of the beach.  We will be visiting it in September but aren't too bothered about sun beds.  I hope it all doesn't end in tears as Plakias is regarded as one of the best naturist beaches in Crete but as others have said there are other beaches and resorts and the world doesn't stand still however much we may desire it.  Were things to change though I could quite imagine what could happen to the place. 

I remember a lovely quiet village with a great beach from 20 + years ago.  It was called Georgioupolis and look whats happened there!

Main reason for this post is to question the 3 or 4 hours on a coach statement.  As a first timer to Plakias with Olympic should I expect to have to endure that long a transfer or are times mentioned above a bit of a one-off?  Can someone advise please?

Apologies, as a Newbie, if I should have made this 2 separate posts rather than lumping my 'sun bed' thoughts together with a question about transfers.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 14, 2012, 07:20:29 PM
Hi kayisi,

When we first started going to Plakias in the early '90s we went on packages with Sunmed and then First Choice before becoming independent travellers ever since. The coach transfers from Heraklion were always something to be endured rather than enjoyed, but mainly because they happened in the early hours of the morning just before dawn and you felt really cream crackered on arrival. Daytime transfers should be much better although the time always depends on the number of stops along the way. Anything upto 3 hours sounds realistic compared to the 1hr15/1hr30 it takes to transfer by hire car.

Last word about the far end. If it really is as others have said equally accessible for all, it would be fun to watch what happens if a posse of clothed beach goers descend on the sunbeds there with their towels and take on the unclothed:-)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: kayisi on August 14, 2012, 07:33:30 PM
I imagine the beach 'bums' would win wouldn't they?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 14, 2012, 07:45:59 PM
Haha. Very good. Couldn't predict the result though. Could be a whole new Olympic sport: unclothed v that strange word textiled. Much prefer clothed.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Sunny Jim on August 15, 2012, 09:10:31 AM
Quote
The far end of Plakias beach is open to all and has been on all of my visits over 17 years.

Open to all ?

Have you never seen families arrive at the far end and leave immediately they notice that naturists are present, I have, and as a naturists I feel very uncomfortable about it.
Are you also suggesting that the large majority of visitors to Plakias are naturists?

I still maintain that a beach such as Plakias should really be open for all and that non naturists should be able to go to the nicest part of te beach without feeling uncomfortable.  :)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 15, 2012, 09:39:49 AM
Well said, Sunny Jim. Our thoughts precisely as non-naturists. The tail seems to have long liked to wag the dog as far as use of the best part of Plakias beach is concerned:-) Time for a change?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike G on August 15, 2012, 02:14:02 PM
Quote

Main reason for this post is to question the 3 or 4 hours on a coach statement.  As a first timer to Plakias with Olympic should I expect to have to endure that long a transfer or are times mentioned above a bit of a one-off?  Can someone advise please?

My quickest Olympic transfer was just under 90 mins (taxi) and my longest a bit over 3 hours. It is the luck of the draw and there is no way I know of to predict it. Grouping many holidaymakers' transfers together when possible to minimise cost is the way Olympic manages to offer their holidays at a price independent bookers can seldom rival.

Although many on this forum get very annoyed by the transfer times I just sit back am thankful about my good judgement in that I am not holidaying at some of the grotty places we drop off at. Also the €100+ each way you aren't paying for a taxi.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: kayisi on August 15, 2012, 03:33:39 PM
Thanks Mike G.

Very good points you make and I have to agree with them all.  We have always traveled to the island independently before with this being our fist tour operator holiday after 30 + years of going it alone.  I was just hoping not to have to spend too long on a coach/bus after a 5 am start from home as arriving in Heraklion mid afternoon then adding a 3 to 4 hour journey round the houses doesn't give too much retsina time first night!

When you think about it though I suppose total journey time from the airport won't be too much different to - airport - bus station (wait for next bus) - bus to Rethimnon (wait about an hour)  - Rethimnon - Plakias.  That is as long as we aren't kept hanging around too long waiting for other flights which tour ops are very handy at doing I suspect.  Fingers crossed we are the only ones for Plakias that day and we might get a fast ride in a cab.  Thanks once again.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 15, 2012, 05:13:05 PM
Afraid I doubt you'll get a cab the whole way even if you're the only ones for Plakias when you arrive as there will no doubt be plenty who need dropping off at resorts between Heraklion and Rethymno. However, the following may give you a glimmer of hope. On a couple of occasions years ago when travelling on a package with First Choice we were bussed to Rethymno and then after a little confusion and a wait taken by taxi to Plakias. Fingers crossed for you on that front.

I fully agree that the Olympic prices are very tempting compared to "doing it yourself", but whils ever we can we intend to remain independent travellers. Partly as we want to continue to show support to Markos and Evi Brokaklakis and family at Stella Studios after staying with them most years since 1992 and partly as we like the freedom an airport to airport hire car gives us for the duration of our two week stays. We like some time on the beach (if not the far end) and in the sea each day (maybe upto a couple of hours max), but love to head off in the car exploring too. Two full weeks spending all day every day on the beach is not our idea of a holiday.

BTW My better half enjoys white wine but not retsina, whereas for me retsina is a real flavour of Greece and I always look forward to picking up a bottle or two from the local supermarkets. Never tried any other than the crown topped ones though.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John R on August 15, 2012, 05:38:12 PM
Well as many of you already know, this year I am hitching a lift with Olympus - yes including that notorious transfer- and then staying at Stella with the Aformentioned Markos  and Evi. That's the way the prices worked for me this time.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 15, 2012, 06:04:28 PM
Looking forward to seeing you and Gillian again at Stella's next month, John.

At least your transfers are daytime, which should very much help. Sue and I well remember having a few package transfers years ago and how awful we felt after being up all night travelling and only getting to Plakias in the coach around 6am. Only surpassed by the grim feeling when we had to set the alarm to be up for the return transfers which left from outside Monza travel at about 2am. We remember Yannis from Stella's appearing from nowhere to insist on taking our cases down to the coach in his pickup despite it being the dead of night. A top man.

Must be getting older as we just don't fancy night transfers like that any more:-) Daytime perhaps if need be.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John R on August 15, 2012, 06:43:21 PM
Agreed - there is no way I would have done this trick if the transfers were late night - something we were also familiar with years ago.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 15, 2012, 08:09:32 PM
Yes, John. Fully agree.

BTW I know from conversations with others whilst in Plakias last year (no names mentioned) that some thought Sue and I were daft for paying more to travel independently rather than taking a more attractively priced Olympic package and no doubt there are those who think you are daft for paying for accomodation with your Olympic package and then paying again to stay at Stella's, but we both know we have our good reasons. You pays your money and you takes your choice:-)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Bertie on August 16, 2012, 07:47:41 AM
Having just returned from a week in Plakias I wish to make the following contributions.

I know it was August so the resort was not so busy with Northern Europeans, plenty of Greeks but they tend not to favour the Far End.
Only once was I aware that all the beds and umbrellas were occupied and then only for a short period.
In my opinion the beach is better than it's ever been. The guy who is attending this year is charming and extreemely polite. Not only does he conduct running maintenance on the chairs and umbrellas, ensuring the maximum numbers are kept in use, he has provided each umbrella with a terra cotta pot for waste. He empties each pot and washes it clean every day or when people leave during the day. He ensures the main refuse bin is never overful and he keeps the sand meticulously clean by picking up even the smallest items of litter and jetsam he sees.
I don't know if he's the concessionaire or is employed by the concessionaire but he's certainly made a difference.

On the subject of sharing with textile, I also visited Micro Amoudi which, being August, was packed with Greek people, although we North Europeans were also in evidence. As a result it was usually about 85% textile and 15% nude. I felt no hostility to either group and everybody rubbed along just the same.
Also, the new attendant at Micro Amoudi has improved that beach by keeping it immaculately clean and providing waitress service for drinks from her bar.
Overall, a great experience.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike G on August 16, 2012, 01:37:53 PM
That is as long as we aren't kept hanging around too long waiting for other flights which tour ops are very handy at doing I suspect.
I haven't generally had to wait for another flight but occasionally have been delayed by other passengers, who have decided to take a taxi or bus but haven't had the courtesy to tell the rep that they won't be on the coach.

It is good to hear from Bertie that all was well at the far end.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: kayisi on August 16, 2012, 07:36:45 PM
Thanks for the replies folks.  Not long to go now.  Looking forward to Plakias.  I'll report back, in case anyone is interested, when we get back home, ie there and back transfers.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on August 16, 2012, 08:19:03 PM
i am there now and no problems at all and its very hot` love it

                                   barny
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike from Sussex on August 16, 2012, 10:13:14 PM
Well as many of you already know, this year I am hitching a lift with Olympus - yes including that notorious transfer- and then staying at Stella with the Aformentioned Markos  and Evi. That's the way the prices worked for me this time.

John,

Did you book a Plakias package. I have done similar, but booked the cheapest Malia package they had. That and car hire for the fortnight was still cheaper than air tickets alone, leaving us to stay where we liked in Plakias.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John R on August 16, 2012, 10:53:49 PM
Yes - I booked a Plakias package but considered doing exactly  what you have done. There was one Plakias package from Newcastle airport at the time which was cheaper than the air fares alone using exactly the same flights. Newcastle was for us mandatory so we felt there was no option. Saving a lot on car hire as well.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Bertie on August 17, 2012, 05:49:03 AM
Sorry, but this stream has deteriorated into a private conversation nothing to do with the subject of "beaches"!!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 17, 2012, 09:01:03 AM
Oops. Sorry, Bertie. Point taken as several of do seem to have moved on from sun beds and the far end to packages v independent. Just one last quick general observation. The Olympic fares show just how little the accommodation owners must be paid by the tour companies. I remember Stella saying something similar back in the days when she was signed up with First Choice.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike G on August 17, 2012, 02:37:53 PM
Just one last quick general observation. The Olympic fares show just how little the accommodation owners must be paid by the tour companies. I remember Stella saying something similar back in the days when she was signed up with First Choice.
I'm sure this is true. However, they do have the guarantee of a full season's worth of bookings which only the top accommodations will achieve in these recessionary times.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 17, 2012, 04:35:54 PM
Fully agree, Mike.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike G on August 21, 2012, 01:22:43 PM
Yes, John. Fully agree.

BTW I know from conversations with others whilst in Plakias last year (no names mentioned) that some thought Sue and I were daft for paying more to travel independently rather than taking a more attractively priced Olympic package and no doubt there are those who think you are daft for paying for accomodation with your Olympic package and then paying again to stay at Stella's, but we both know we have our good reasons. You pays your money and you takes your choice:-)
Yes, you are right that the big problem with Olympic is the extremely limited selection of accommodation.

From what I remember of John R's plans for 2012, he actually saved money even though he wasn't using his Olympic accommodation owing to the fact he was not having the expense of car hire for the days he wouldn't need it. Also, the car journey back to the airport can be stressful as you know that if anything delays you and you miss the flight it will cost you a lot of money.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mark12345 on August 22, 2012, 10:15:47 PM
Did you know Prince Harry is visiting this Sept . Joke . Read the news tonight Weds 22nd
Well my friends
SEPT looms . Haleluiah !
This conversation has changed somewhat from when I started it.
Thank you for all that have viewed this thread . As an Englishman all I can say is Bloody Amazing !
And thank you for all that have contributed
No one has come back with a positive answer to my original question .
 So
It's
On
Your
Marks
Get set
Go !
May the best man / woman win
On getting a sun bed !
God Bless
See you on the Beach !
Yassas
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Noopsy on August 24, 2012, 09:40:34 PM
OK. Here is a positive answer to your original question.  For the first time since starting to come to Plakias I have been using the sunbeds.  (Need the shade provided by the umbrellas as part of my new tanning plan. ;D)  I usually arrive at the beach between 1000 and 1100 hrs. and there is always plenty of choice.  I don't know what it'll be like in September when, I understand, the resort gets very busy, but for the time being everything is rosy.  BTW the post by Bertie about the new attendant is spot on.  Occasionally he even forgets to collect the money which is brill!

Noopsy 
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mark12345 on August 25, 2012, 08:29:51 PM
Thanks for the update . Will try to update next week when I'm Plakias myself .
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Noopsy on August 31, 2012, 05:40:08 PM
Before you arrive next week, here is the latest situation.  I arrived at the 'far end' today at about 1050, and to my amazement found that it was almost completely full.  No towels - actual bodies on beds.  By comparison, only one bed was in use at the Paligremnos site, and there couldn't have been more than about a dozen or so people on the rest of the beach.  I managed to 'bag' the last single bed.  Virtually everybody was 'clothes-optional'. 
When I left in the afternoon, about a third of the Paligremnos site was occupied, and the rest of the beach was still pretty deserted.  The 'far end' was chockers, and that includes the space under the tamarind tree.  Seems like September will indeed be busy - luckily, that won't affect me (I'm leaving soon).
It seems to me that rather than dreaming up ways of making the 'far end' more family (i.e. textile)-friendly (which it already is), the local authorities should be looking to extend it and improve facilities for those who are clearly bringing in the money: the 'clothes-optional' community.

Noopsy 
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 31, 2012, 08:52:38 PM
Sorry, Noopsy. As others have already said, the far end is far from family friendly unless you like naked fellow holidaymakers,young and old, on the beach next to you. As for extending it for the latter, that hardly makes any sense. I'd be very surprised if "normal" visitors to Plakias don't bring more income to the village than the unclothed ones.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Rogataber on August 31, 2012, 09:12:37 PM
Reply to: Regulars since 1992
Re: Sun Beds

"Sorry, Noopsy. As others have already said, the far end is far from family friendly unless you like naked fellow holidaymakers,young and old, on the beach next to you. As for extending it for the latter, that hardly makes any sense. I'd be very surprised if "normal" visitors to Plakias don't bring more income to the village than the unclothed ones."

Sorry, this is simply RUBBISH! You have NO evidence as to the breakdown of income that Plakias derives from either clothed or unclothed customers!

There are simply acres of beach for clothed customers with a small amount of area set aside for the unclothed. My wife & I have been going to Plakias since around 1980 and this has always been the case. The "far end" should not be described as "the best part of the beach" - it ain't!

There are simply millions of beaches for the clothed in Greece but a vanishingly small number of options for the unclothed.

If you and "Sunny Jim" don't like it - go SOMEWHERE ELSE - there are many options available.

However, I can't get over the feeling that by sending this message, I am in fact FEEDING THE TROLLS!

Rogataber
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Regulars since 1992 on August 31, 2012, 10:18:23 PM
I won't lower myself to suggesting that your above post is rubbish, but I would politely suggest that you have no evidence either as to whether naked beachgoers bring more income to Plakias than normal visitors. However, I won't even respond to your silly reference to trolls. We are just regular visitors to Plakias over the last 20 years who prefer to keep our clothes on, like so many other visitors. Anyway, now bored with the subject as sadly things clearly aren't going to change, so will leave it at that. End of story.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John Gloucester on August 31, 2012, 11:33:10 PM
Rogataber,
                 You are 100% correct none of us know which group (clothed or un-clothed ) of regular visitors bring the greatest amont of cash to Plakias. One thing is certain, Plakias Business owners need both, The beach is large enough for both, we naturists only use a small percentage of the beach, all I am asking is please provide enough Sun Beds at the Far End for the naturists, especially when it appears there are far more Sun Beds provided for the clothed visitors than are actually needed, as my wife and I have never seen them full on any other section of the beach.

The problem of the shortage of Sun Beds at the Far End did not exist until last year, whatever the reason regarding the licencing for the number of Sun Beds on this section of the beach, it needs to be sorted out before a significant number of regular September naturist visitors start going elsewhere!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: nora on September 01, 2012, 08:20:10 AM
Chill out everyone - what is this obsession with sunbeds?

I am a 1st timer to Plakias arriving on 25th September and I have really enjoyed this forum.

These posts are puzzling me and I can only think that there is something I am missing.

Do you need a sunbed  because its often windy in Plakias so the sand gets everywhere?

I like nothing better than placing my towel on a quiet beach away from the noise of other people - sounds like there will be plenty of space for those who are not naturists and do not need a sunbed.

Is this right and will I be able to do this in Plakias?

Best wishes
Nora x

Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: ian s on September 01, 2012, 09:15:52 AM
Chill out indeed!  I remember the days when there were no beds on any of the beaches in and around Plakias and we all survived.  Much better if you ask me.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John Gloucester on September 01, 2012, 09:51:14 AM
My wife and I  also used to like putting our towels on the sand when we were younger, unfortunately we have reached the age where a little more comfort is required. In my case it is something my back reminds me of every day, I know if the beds are full at the Far End we can always get a Sun Bed at Souda but Plakias Far end is my humble opinion a much nicer and more friendly beach, so as I and others have said in earlier posting, if the position regarding the number of Sun Beds at the Far End remains the same as last year and this year, we will be looking for and alternative destination for our September holiday in 2013.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: nora on September 01, 2012, 10:00:36 AM
Thanks for the clarification John - my other half's back isn't too good either so we'll have to give the sand a try and then decide. Sorry to hear you might be looking for another resort - lets hope things get sorted out for everyone
Nora x

Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike G on September 01, 2012, 02:12:44 PM
Rogataber,
                 You are 100% correct none of us know which group (clothed or un-clothed ) of regular visitors bring the greatest amont of cash to Plakias. One thing is certain, Plakias Business owners need both, The beach is large enough for both, we naturists only use a small percentage of the beach, all I am asking is please provide enough Sun Beds at the Far End for the naturists, especially when it appears there are far more Sun Beds provided for the clothed visitors than are actually needed, as my wife and I have never seen them full on any other section of the beach.

The problem of the shortage of Sun Beds at the Far End did not exist until last year, whatever the reason regarding the licencing for the number of Sun Beds on this section of the beach, it needs to be sorted out before a significant number of regular September naturist visitors start going elsewhere!
I completely agree with these sentiments as they seem self evident.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Susan K on September 02, 2012, 11:53:21 AM

The problem of the shortage of Sun Beds at the Far End did not exist until last year, whatever the reason regarding the licencing for the number of Sun Beds on this section of the beach, it needs to be sorted out before a significant number of regular September naturist visitors start going elsewhere!

We already have and will not be returning unless the situation changes.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mark12345 on September 03, 2012, 06:16:13 PM
Good News People.
I'm in Plakias and have spent most of the time on the far end without too much trouble getting a bed.
The good news is that there are more beds this year compared to 2012. There is and extra rows of beds which makes it 3 as it used to be. I counted them all today and there are 41 umbrellas (2 beds) and many more beds under the trees. Agrostoli the guy running the beds is trying very hard this year to make up for last year.
Even Palegremnos has and extra 2 row of beds. But I have to say they are still very close to the beach bar so I'm guessing no nudes allowed on those.
As always the far end is busy. All the beds where taken today but it's change over day tomorrow Tuesday so ..... In with the old in with the new ha.
Hopefully those who are coming out shortly your holiday should be as good as usual.
Ps It's very windy here. And it's chilly at night . Bring a jumper or light over coat/jacket
HAPPY HOLIDAYS PEEPS :-)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John Gloucester on September 03, 2012, 11:24:41 PM
Mark12345
               
                 Thank you for the update on the Sun Beds, let all us naturists hope the comments on this forum have made someone in authority see common sense and allowed the operator of the Sun Beds to provide sufficent to meet demand, thus ensuring regular visitors are happy and go on returning year after year.

Only 10 days before we arrive and little happier that it seems we will get a Sun Bed without having to arrive at the Far End before dawn and more importantly we won't have to look elsewhere for our September holiday next year.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: spottttttt on September 04, 2012, 07:41:21 PM
I do hope your right, we arrive on 14th Sept, if its as bad as people are predicting we wont be returning, we''ll go to Paleochora instead,
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on September 04, 2012, 08:00:04 PM
Do you think people in authority read this? And will two people be missed if they don't come back? This is Plakias,there is only one, enjoy it as it is!

                      Barny.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: daza on September 05, 2012, 11:09:10 AM
Last time I was in Paleochora there were only a few sunbeds (20 max??) and some tatty threadbare parasols - a great alternative to Plakias though - just hard to get to now Kosmar is no more - if you rely on tour operators as we do/have to.We were well sandblasted in June last time we were there. They are both lovely and I will hopefully return to Paleochora one day whatever the sunbed situation. And yes - who in "authority" is reading this??? I haven't notice a response! Any takers anyone?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John Gloucester on September 05, 2012, 05:27:29 PM
Have just heard from a friend in Plakias to-day that with the influx of visitors who arrived yesterday that the beach is very busy and all the Sun Beds were gone by 9.30 this morning, leaving very many people upset and annoyed. Barney you may be correct that 2 people won't be missed however as I always told my staff ONE DISSATISFIED customer will tell more people about their dissatisaction, than 10 Satisfied will tell people of their satisfaction.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Bertie on September 09, 2012, 08:56:24 AM
Just for the record there were many more than 20 beds when I was in Paleochora in July this year and none of the parosoles was tatty. In fact, as an alternative to Plakias, I think it's an excellent choice. Beautifully kept beach with plenty of beds available at the "far end". The rest of the beach also is much better than the rest of Plakias beach.
Now that easyJet flies to Chania it's easy to get to. Taxi to the bus station (this is the only annoying bit) and then bus to Pal.
Incidentally, Sunvil still does packages to Pal.
Sorry to use this site to promote Pal. I still love Plakias just as much.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: soki on September 09, 2012, 11:32:25 AM
Going to Plakias 13.Oct. are there still sun beds in the fare end?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: mickydripping on September 09, 2012, 02:13:30 PM
Last year they were gathered in about 20th. Oct...but it took several days...no urgency!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Noopsy on September 11, 2012, 11:51:30 AM
Taxi to the bus station (this is the only annoying bit)
There is a bus service which takes you from the airport directly to the bus station in Chania - unlike the service in Heraklion.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: spottttttt on September 11, 2012, 12:44:51 PM
Well we won,t be using sunbeds as we've come up with an alternative!!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike G on September 11, 2012, 01:55:49 PM
Just for the record there were many more than 20 beds when I was in Paleochora in July this year and none of the parosoles was tatty. In fact, as an alternative to Plakias, I think it's an excellent choice. Beautifully kept beach with plenty of beds available at the "far end". The rest of the beach also is much better than the rest of Plakias beach.
Now that easyJet flies to Chania it's easy to get to. Taxi to the bus station (this is the only annoying bit) and then bus to Pal.
Incidentally, Sunvil still does packages to Pal.
Sorry to use this site to promote Pal. I still love Plakias just as much.
Hello Bertie,

You are quite right that Paleochora is somewhere that Plakias lovers will also enjoy, especially farenders. I would rate the beach and tavernas about as highly as Plakias and there is good walking, although my impression was that there were fewer good walks that both started and finished in Paleochora.

As has been said the big disadvantage is that no middle of the road UK tour operator goes there (I don't know a lot about Sunvil but assume they are up market of the likes of Olympic).

Although the option mentioned of using the bus from Chania for the transfer is possible, I don't think many other than the very hardy will consider it a viable option. Pity.

Mike
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: kayisi on September 16, 2012, 06:42:29 PM
Just returned from a very enjoyable laid back week in Plakias (4 - 11 Sept) and because of the four days wind we had we only ventured down to the far end once.  On the non-windy day we went all the sun beds were in use and going by the number of people stretched out on the sand and under the tamarisk tree more beds wouldn't go amiss.  None of the other sun bed areas on the beach were anywhere near fully utilised so I think someone is missing a trick by not providing more down at the far end.  It isn't as though there isn't room for more either.
Title: Re: Sun Beds - On the other hand
Post by: paleo on October 10, 2012, 06:54:43 PM
On the other had look what they've done to Amoudaki aka Micro Amoudi - you can barely (sic) find a place to spread your towel out - used to be our favourite beach now even sardines would be feeling squashed. Fortunately they are in the process of end-of-season strike down so it should be back as it was in a few days
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: nora on October 10, 2012, 07:16:59 PM
Yes this busy beach was what started off our search for the collective noun - there definately was a 'colony' on Micro Amoudi. Much preferred the emptier beaches.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: triton on April 19, 2013, 08:04:01 PM
If any beds are occupied with towels and not being used for a long time then the towels will be removed and tossed in the sea or bushes !!
If there's one thing that bugs me it's this. Recently in Turkey we could not get bed's around the pool
70% had towels on them unoccupied. I even found a waiter putting towels on for two young girls who didn't surface until around 2pm. Wonder why??
Hence, this was the first and last time to that country.
The Greek islands every time for us.  Whinge over and out !!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: plakias-beach-masseur on April 21, 2013, 07:41:43 AM
Oh dear. I'm a resident in Plakias and despair of the British Sun Club mentality. When I was 19 I came across the true spirit of naturism in Sweden. It was about freedom and living life. Now it seems that in Britain it is about boring, lazy, middle-aged, overweight people spending all day lying on a sunbed and whinging on about there not being enough sunbeds to go round. Have any of you tried putting a towel down and lying on the sand? I guess not.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: plakias-beach-masseur on April 21, 2013, 01:24:14 PM
I'm not Swedish. I'm English. But I have a respect for the values and morality of the local culture. And for a Cretan person the sight of a middleaged woman lying on a sunbed with her legs apart for all to see is offensive and they would think of her as something of a slag. If tourists of any nationality want to behave in this way then go to Micro Amoudi. Plakias is simply too much in the face of the locals and such behaviour causes great offense.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: plakias-beach-masseur on April 22, 2013, 11:22:57 AM
I do work on the beach. Check out http://www.plakias-beach-massage.com (http://www.plakias-beach-massage.com) for more info.

My wife is ashamed at the way some of the women behave. As a woman herself she simply can't understand how another woman can behave in such an unladylike way. So she no longer goes down to the 'far end'. She doesn't want anyone to think she's like these other women.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on April 22, 2013, 06:24:29 PM
This is, and always has been Plakias, if you don't like..........................

                                 Barny.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: spottttttt on April 22, 2013, 07:31:20 PM
Nobody forces anyone to go to the far end, if you don't like it, don't go. Simple, isn't it?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Dave&Les on April 22, 2013, 08:58:46 PM
Barny & Spotttt here here!!!!!!!!!!! we totally agree with you.

We think this Guy is using the Forum to attract attention to his business &  line his pockets.

Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Rogataber on April 22, 2013, 09:10:24 PM
He post messages like a troll, he talks like a troll, do you think he is a troll?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: plakias-beach-masseur on April 24, 2013, 08:14:11 AM
To Barny, Spottttttt, Dave&Les, Rogataber

Sorry to disappoint you lot. I'm not a troll. I'm an ex-cambridge blue and an ex-Vice Consul for Thailand. I have over forty years experience of naturism all over the world and for three years ran my own naturist establishment. In other words I know what I'm talking about. I'm not here to line my pockets. I don't need to. I'm here to have some fun. But if you lot think you can bring your common, lower class British sun club values to Plakias without attracting adverse comments from the locals then you are living in Pixie world.

There are Cretan mothers here with ten year old little boys. Little boys being what they are they cycle up to the far end to have a look. And what do they see? A British beached whale lying naked in the sun with her legs wide apart. Would you like that happeneing in your own back yard back in Britain. I don't think so. But you seem to think that it's OK here. It isn't.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike G on April 24, 2013, 02:18:06 PM
The "far end" topic has been an active one for several years on the forum. It seems to me that there are facts and then opinions.

Fact 1 is that the far end is the reason that a substantial number of the visitors come to Plakias and without them those selling tourist services in the town would suffer immensely.

Fact 2 is that the far end is as it says, i.e. at the far end of a road that ends just beyond the beach end. It would be difficult to see anyone on the beach from the road without binoculars.

Fact 3 is that it is quite a small proportion of Plakias' beach so anyone offended can go elsewhere. If you didn't approve of drinking alcohol you wouldn't go into a pub after all.

Use by the previous contributor of words such as "if you lot think you can bring your common, lower class British sun club values" will only reinforce the impression that the write is indeed a troll.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: plakias-beach-masseur on April 24, 2013, 05:52:36 PM
Sorry Mike but it would seem that you are the troll. Dealing with fact 3. Why don't you go elsewhere instead of coming to Plakias? The mothers with the 10 year old little boys live there throughout the year. They can't go elsewhere. You can and perhaps should. You wouldn't be missed.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Dave&Les on April 24, 2013, 06:07:38 PM
How long have you been in Plakias?....... us (you lot) have been going to Plakias for at least 25 to 30 years!!! Who do think you are to tell us to go somewhere else.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Voloudakis on April 24, 2013, 06:53:29 PM
This has become terribly heated. It is never going to be resolved. Personal attacks are never good. To assume peoples social status or mind set is also wrong. Many different nationalities and backgrounds on the forum. I understand where Geoff is coming from but very undiplomatic choice of phrase. He thinks naturists should be more discrete. The far end in the early days of Plakias was discrete. It may be less so now that the area has more visitor accommodation. Historically ( recent history) Plakias was and is a naturist hotspot. There are books, magazines and websites written about it. However we must recognise that some people that live there still take issue with the fact, Geoff has obviously had conversations with them. I do also think that naturism has been enjoyed by visitors before many of the locals moved there and a lot of the expats that live in Plakias of various nationalities are naturists themselves. There used to only be about eight houses when naturism first arrived in Plakias.
Comments about large ladies may not be helpful. Should have stuck to naked people with legs open. Would still cause upset but at least it does not single a certain group out.
I must say it certainly has woken the forum up from winter slumber.

Sent from my Nexus 7

Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: draper10 on April 24, 2013, 10:11:24 PM
To the masseur:
It's not really clear whether you object to the naturists' sex (Is it OK for blokes to lie with their legs apart), nationality (are large German ladies allowed), social class ( are large Cambridge educated, honorary consuls allowed), or nudity ( are large German honorary consuls wearing thongs allowed). Is a large naked woman more likely to corrupt a 10 year old Cretan child than a large naked man? Would a German naturist have a less corrupting influence?
Last year the guy renting sunbeds on the naturist bit of Souda beach had his son with him on the 2 or 3 days we were there. Presumably all the naturists there were neither British, female or overweight.
Actually as soon as Mr. Masseur lurched into right wing class warrior mode I lost interest, as I usually do when someone can only justify themselves by slagging off others.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: plakias-beach-masseur on April 25, 2013, 06:57:29 AM
I have every right to criticise bad behaviour in others. And everyone on  this forum has the right to express an opinion about me. But please remember that Plakias belongs to the Cretans. It is their beach and we should all show respect for their values.

As regards the sun beds, or lack of them, the local department store sells them for 35 Euros. An umbrella big enough for two people can be bought for 10 Euros.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Colin & Sandra on April 25, 2013, 07:28:10 AM
We think it's fair to say that the massage trade is going to be very quite this year
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: draper10 on April 25, 2013, 07:45:24 AM
Obviously  touched  a chord with the class warrior bit as I got a personal reply! Mr. Masseur doesn't  think I'm funny evidently.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: plakias-beach-masseur on April 25, 2013, 09:14:24 AM
This was the message I sent to draper10

I thought I would get back to you personally regarding your posting and point one or two home truths out to you. You are trying to be clever but fail. Anyone who had genuinely lost interest wouldn't put a posting up. They would simply move on. And in calling me a right wing class warrior it is you who are slagging me off. This kind of behaviour is typical of the left wing class warrior.

This issue isn't about class per se. It is about the morality and behaviour that accompanies it.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on April 25, 2013, 10:40:31 AM
I'm sitting here with a large bag of popcorn. This show is turning out be quite good!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: draper10 on April 25, 2013, 10:58:13 AM
Sorry Tony, I've decided to stop playing as the 'Disgusted of Tonbridge Wells' levels have gone off the scale :)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on April 25, 2013, 11:05:56 AM
Aw! I  was just going to start to give betting odds on the outcome!
 ;)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Sunny Jim on April 25, 2013, 11:09:06 AM
The "far end" topic has been an active one for several years on the forum. It seems to me that there are facts and then opinions.

Fact 1 is that the far end is the reason that a substantial number of the visitors come to Plakias and without them those selling tourist services in the town would suffer immensely.



Fact 3 is that it is quite a small proportion of Plakias' beach so anyone offended can go elsewhere. If you didn't approve of drinking alcohol you wouldn't go into a pub after all.



Fact 1   Its quite possible that more people would visit Plakias if ALL the beach was open to all locals and visitors and especialy families.


Fact 3  Yes the far end is a small area compared to the rest of the beach, but it is also the nicest.  To exclude the family tourist the choice of the nicest part of the beach is both selfish and arrogant beyond belief.

I personaly feel the above description of an overwieght lady is unaceptable, but regardless of her size and age, if she was blantantly displaying herself with wide open legs then i would certainly refer the problem to the local police
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on April 25, 2013, 11:35:59 AM
Reminds me of the Dimitri thread some time ago?

                   Barny.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: draper10 on April 25, 2013, 12:23:09 PM
This is sort of on topic. As we have a hire car for the full fortnight in June, I've been having a look at the estimable Cap'n Barefoot's site to try to find somewhere else to take my unwelcome body to ( along with its presumably more welcome wallet!). Does anyone have some more current details re Ligres and/or Triopetra than the good Captain? He led us to a beach just outside Frangokastello last year which was lovely. A few more like that wouldn't go amiss.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Voloudakis on April 25, 2013, 01:47:38 PM
Between Agia Fotini and Ligres are a series of beautiful and Naturist friendly stretches of sand/ small pebble. Then Ligres to Triopetra is nearly all good except in front of the Taverna and the beach bar. Beyond triopetra are some other excellent spots. Agios Pavlos is naturist friendly. Going west Rodakino and the beaches beyond are all excellent and Naturist friendly. Sweetwater and beyond Loutro at Marmara are also good. Massive choice.
Check this webpage for more info on Rodakino http://www.angelfire.com/super2/greece/rodakino.html (http://www.angelfire.com/super2/greece/rodakino.html)
Photos of Ligres and Triopetra,.
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/87714982 (http://www.panoramio.com/photo/87714982)
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/88199855 (http://www.panoramio.com/photo/88199855)
http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/3264282.jpg (http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/3264282.jpg)
http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/810207.jpg (http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/810207.jpg)
Agios Pavlos beyond Triopetra.
http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/3591500.jpg (http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/3591500.jpg)
http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/6818675.jpg (http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/6818675.jpg)
http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/26172919.jpg (http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/26172919.jpg)
Agia Fotini Taverna and nearby.
http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/2384149.jpg (http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/2384149.jpg)
http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/26309413.jpg (http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/26309413.jpg)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: draper10 on April 25, 2013, 01:52:35 PM
Thanks Lampyland. Must have a look in June.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Ploppy on April 26, 2013, 09:14:41 AM
Wow, don't check-in for a few days and look what happens!

Geoff has removed his account so not much to say really.

An emotive topic clearly and everyone is entitled to their opinion but we should be able to keep things friendly without resorting to personal attacks, implied or otherwise.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: JBMouse on April 29, 2013, 05:44:49 PM
Like Tony & Sandra I was set for a good show, but popcorn? Remember this is a Greek/Cretan forum, ouzo and olives are far more in keeping with the spirit of the forum. Did I say spirit? make mine another ouzo please.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on April 30, 2013, 08:35:06 AM
I apologise olives and raki it should have been.

Tony
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on April 30, 2013, 08:42:52 AM
So now the sun bed issue has been sorted out can we have opinions on the need for some motorised water-sports on Plakias beach (jet skis, wake boarding, water skiing, banana boats with screaming youngsters, parascending etc)!!

 ;)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on April 30, 2013, 11:01:26 AM
What about a Mc Donalds?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: daza on April 30, 2013, 04:25:41 PM
After a gyros - no way! But perhaps another gyros tho'!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Davos on April 30, 2013, 07:09:11 PM
My god, I hope you are all being funny

Davos
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on April 30, 2013, 07:18:27 PM
A Mc Souvlaki? A Mc Stiffado? A Retsina shake?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike from Sussex on April 30, 2013, 08:12:38 PM
A Mc Souvlaki? A Mc Stiffado? A Retsina shake?

A Mc fetaburger?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on May 01, 2013, 08:56:13 AM
a branch of YO! SOUVLAKI  ?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on May 01, 2013, 08:59:45 AM
Actually the sands at the back of the "far end" would be an ideal spot for doing dune buggy racing I think.
Tony  ;)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Sunny Jim on May 01, 2013, 10:24:23 AM
So now the sun bed issue has been sorted out can we have opinions on the need for some motorised water-sports on Plakias beach (jet skis, wake boarding, water skiing, banana boats with screaming youngsters, parascending etc)!!

 ;)

Of course I do realise your talking tounge in cheek but you also mention children.
Children and specificly families should be encouraged to use the far end at Plakia at all times, since it is not only the nicest part of the whole beach but the safest to bathe and have fun, which surely is what a family holiday should be all about. Your presence on that part of the beach as a nudist is openly discouraging families to visit simply by being there, even as a minority group .
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on May 01, 2013, 12:05:13 PM
Seconds out, Round two!!!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John R on May 01, 2013, 12:22:02 PM
Absolute rubbish. We are here right now (no sunbeds at all by the way to keep on topic). We are NOT far Enders but feel that the negative posts about far ender behaviour / presence have been absolute rubbish. Either join them clothed (not a problem) or choose from acres of beautiful beach away from the area. All this negative talk about the far end is doing a lot of unnecessary potential damage to the traditional Plakias (traditional since it was discovered anyway). We just do not see and have never seen any problem with that aspect of Plakias nor the people (most of our good friends) who frequent that part of the beach.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on May 01, 2013, 01:14:39 PM
Have you noticed that all these people that start these comments are 'new' to the board?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John R on May 01, 2013, 01:48:59 PM
Yes I have and I still respect the fact that despite going to Plakias every year for the last 18 years I still consider myself a relative newcomer and as such treat the place and the locals with respect.!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on May 01, 2013, 01:54:32 PM
I have been visiting Plakias since 2004 and on this board since 2006. I can admit I have never been to the "far end" in all that time. I like Souda beach.
It does seem though that I can stir up a hornets nest!

Tony
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on May 01, 2013, 01:56:35 PM
An ice-cream van selling whippy ice-cream playing a bazouki version "Greensleeves"!!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Voloudakis on May 01, 2013, 02:01:08 PM
We like Souda beach the best too. If someone does not have transport or a young family etc they may not want to do the walk in the heat of July and August.
Cannot wait to be sat in the Galini Taverna after the first swim of our Holiday.
Sadly no Doughnuts on the beach, unless we keep missing out.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike G on May 01, 2013, 02:14:52 PM
Absolute rubbish. We are here right now (no sunbeds at all by the way to keep on topic). We are NOT far Enders but feel that the negative posts about far ender behaviour / presence have been absolute rubbish. Either join them clothed (not a problem) or choose from acres of beautiful beach away from the area. All this negative talk about the far end is doing a lot of unnecessary potential damage to the traditional Plakias (traditional since it was discovered anyway). We just do not see and have never seen any problem with that aspect of Plakias nor the people (most of our good friends) who frequent that part of the beach.
As usual John you are talking a lot of sense.

Re. an earlier post, please no watersports or "Mc-anything." Interestingly, I find McDonald's is becoming increasingly popular in France I find.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on May 01, 2013, 02:33:59 PM
I have been visiting Plakias since 2004 and on this board since 2006. I can admit I have never been to the "far end" in all that time. I like Souda beach.
Tony

I've been going to Plakias since 1989 and never been to Souda beach! Has it a 'far end'?

                                Barny.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Sunny Jim on May 01, 2013, 02:34:53 PM
Have you noticed that all these people that start these comments are 'new' to the board?

Your point being ?


Let us not forget that the families that visit today, tomorrow , and next month, bring with them the visitors of the future and their children and so on, that's where prosperity for the locals can be achieved for the future.
I'm quite sure if there was to be a local vote on the issue the locals would vote emphatically against the far end of Plakias beach being used for nudists. As John R points out there are "acres of beutifull
beaches out there" where Nudism can be practised without causing offence or discord.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Voloudakis on May 01, 2013, 02:40:45 PM
I have been visiting Plakias since 2004 and on this board since 2006. I can admit I have never been to the "far end" in all that time. I like Souda beach.
Tony


I've been going to Plakias since 1989 and never been to Souda beach! Has it a 'far end'?

                                Barny.

Yes Barny, the far left side of the beach is mostly naturist.
Two good tavernas to choose from and beach showers.
Souda Beach.
(http://i.imgur.com/S6x52FD.jpg)
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on May 01, 2013, 02:43:10 PM
I have been visiting Plakias since 2004 and on this board since 2006. I can admit I have never been to the "far end" in all that time. I like Souda beach.
Tony

I've been going to Plakias since 1989 and never been to Souda beach! Has it a 'far end'?

                                Barny.

The end nearest to Plakias tends to be nude and the end near the travernas textile but with a degree of overlap in the middle.
2 tavernas on hand for meals. Water piped to the beach for showers.
We do drive there rather than walk though as we stay in Asomatos.

Tony
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on May 01, 2013, 02:44:09 PM
I have been visiting Plakias since 2004 and on this board since 2006. I can admit I have never been to the "far end" in all that time. I like Souda beach.
Tony

I've been going to Plakias since 1989 and never been to Souda beach! Has it a 'far end'?

                                Barny.
Yes Barny, the far left side of the beach is mostly naturist.
Two good tavernas to choose from and beach showers.

SNAP!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: ann5 on May 01, 2013, 09:30:00 PM
This topic goes on and on.... I wonder why some  people are so set on getting the far end changed to textile ..... I feel there would be no more demand from UK holiday companies  for this resort than there is now (2 I think im  correct in stating ) so why change something so popular and established?
We started holidaying in Plakias purely because of the naturist beach .We simply like an allover tan and swimming in the sea unclothed.Weve tried the naturist club thing but its not our scene so maybe we arent true naturists.We d just like to point out that  every time  we  have been at the beach there have been families using it,some clothed,some naturist  .
The resort has its own appeal but having visited for the past 12 years we can honestly say we wouldnt return if the naturist beach was closed.
After a day at the beach we enjoy a few drinks at the beach bar and then wander back to our apt.
We would not choose Plakias as a resort if it had "normal" beaches, in our opinion we find it a  little boring in the evenings,same old chat ,same music videos, so once youve enjoyed a pleasant meal theres nothing much going on.I dont want discos or tv bars but theres not even a decent stroll to take as theres no real  harbour etc.
We are certain that ,as the facilities are now , Plakias would NOT appeal to families as a holiday resort so why argue the case at all?
This is just our opinion.
 
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: draper10 on May 01, 2013, 09:41:20 PM
I think the biggest disincentive to families visiting Plakias is the transfer time. The locals all seem so friendly that the idea that they get umpty with naturist holiday makers I find a bit hard to accept, but, as I don't live there, perhaps I'm wrong. The beach is huge and there should be places for everyone. The naturist end of Plakias beach is the most relaxed beach I've ever been on and I've seen young, old, clothed and nude sharing the far end.
Anyway, with a jeep for 2 weeks this year we'll be able to take our bods elsewhere to find beaches. I'll miss the Peligremnos taverna for lunch though.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Mike G on May 02, 2013, 01:28:51 PM

I'm quite sure if there was to be a local vote on the issue the locals would vote emphatically against the far end of Plakias beach being used for nudists. As John R points out there are "acres of beutifull
beaches out there" where Nudism can be practised without causing offence or discord.
I think you have misinterpreted John R's post.

Re. any poll by locals, they would know that to change the far end would be financial suicide for those trying to earn a living from tourism.

I agree with a later post that one thing that stops many more tourists coming to Plakias is the distance from the airport. However, this may be a reason the place has maintained its unique character when many other places haven't.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: John R on May 02, 2013, 04:25:48 PM
Yes - I was suggesting there were acres of beach for textiles to choose if they did not wish to mix at the far end.

Er Plakias boring and not worth going to unless you like the Far end beach. Wow - we don't  go to any beaches (well maybe once in the last 5 years) and after over 18 years in a row we find the place far from boring. Suggesting that it would dead without a far end is far from the truth - though it would indeed be a numerically quieter place without the far end. it is one of the most beautiful places imaginable and thankfully with none of the disco type entertainment. Suggesting it is boring does as much potential damage to the place as does suggesting the Far end is spoiling the place. Neither statement is true. It is like suggesting that an idyllic little village in the heart of the UK Lake District (where we come from) is boring because there is little to do !!! Other than perhaps or some lively youngsters I cannot imagine what more people could wish for.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on May 06, 2013, 05:54:24 PM
We like Souda beach the best too. If someone does not have transport or a young family etc they may not want to do the walk in the heat of July and August.
Cannot wait to be sat in the Galini Taverna after the first swim of our Holiday.
Sadly no Doughnuts on the beach, unless we keep missing out.
Here was  a doughnut man selling his wares the day before yesterday at Souda. And there were lots of sunbeds :)

Tony
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Voloudakis on May 07, 2013, 07:20:52 AM
Doughnuts have arrived, but She tells me they are off limits :-(.
Am staring down at winter coloured legs sticking out of the shorts. Trying to get some kind of a tan before rain returns. Not too long to wait until first holiday of the year to Crete. Have to find my mask and flippers as still not unpacked from last year.

Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Voloudakis on May 15, 2013, 09:38:36 AM
Back to the subject of Sunbeds (groan). I have been told that the excellent person who was running it last year has employed a new person to manage sunbeds and cleaning at the far end.
How are people finding the service and are they happy this season?

Yesterdays storms and torrential rain has removed a lot of sand laid down after the winter and sunbeds have been moved back from the water about six feet. The front line was actually so sharply angled and the sea was beneath that people lying on them could slide gently into the sea ;-).
All being sorted today and the beach is going to have some heavy vehicle to move things back and restore the sand.
The friendly and efficient service is again this season provided by the Son of one of the Hotels owners in Plakias. I am sure regulars know who I mean.
The thread gets longer.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: draper10 on May 20, 2013, 10:30:48 AM
3 weeks on Thursday...... 3 weeks on Thursday...... 3 weeks on Thursday...... 3 weeks on Thursday...... 3 weeks on Thursday...... 3 weeks on Thursday...... 3 weeks on Thursday......
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Voloudakis on June 20, 2013, 06:39:13 PM
Yesterday we had a really nasty post on the subject of Naturism, sunbeds and the size of their users in Plakias on the Crete TripAdvisor Forums. We applied immediately to have the post removed as it broke forum rules. The post was removed within minutes and the member warned. Used familiar words and phrases. Very strange.

Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on June 20, 2013, 08:39:52 PM
Hmm, make you wonder?

         Barny.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: draper10 on June 21, 2013, 05:18:25 AM
Plakias/ Souda sunbeds 5 euros this year. Only been on Plakias far end once then due to the wind went to Souda which is naturist mostly at the Plakias end both on the sunbeds and the sand. Souda was so much more peaceful that we haven't been back to Plakias. The guy doing the sunbeds isn't as friendly as the one at Plakias but the beach experience is much better. Very mixed crowd. Germans, Dutch French and one or two Brits. A few mixed nude/dressed parties. Really relaxed vibe!
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Voloudakis on June 21, 2013, 06:41:31 AM
€5 is very reasonable for two sunbeds and a parasol for the day. Thanks for the information.


Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Steve Jones on June 21, 2013, 10:37:54 PM
€5 for the sunbeds is the same as it has been for the last 3-4 years, AFAIK. Does anyone know who was behind this malicious post on TA?
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: draper10 on June 23, 2013, 03:36:48 PM
Think I met the honorary consul today. I stayed incognito though.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on June 23, 2013, 04:10:36 PM
I will stay well away.

           Barny.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: draper10 on June 23, 2013, 08:05:58 PM
Wasn't wearing a hat.
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: George on June 27, 2013, 01:40:52 PM
This topic goes on and on.... I wonder why some  people are so set on getting the far end changed to textile ..... I feel there would be no more demand from UK holiday companies  for this resort than there is now (2 I think im  correct in stating ) so why change something so popular and established?
We started holidaying in Plakias purely because of the naturist beach .We simply like an allover tan and swimming in the sea unclothed.Weve tried the naturist club thing but its not our scene so maybe we arent true naturists.We d just like to point out that  every time  we  have been at the beach there have been families using it,some clothed,some naturist  .
The resort has its own appeal but having visited for the past 12 years we can honestly say we wouldnt return if the naturist beach was closed.
After a day at the beach we enjoy a few drinks at the beach bar and then wander back to our apt.
We would not choose Plakias as a resort if it had "normal" beaches, in our opinion we find it a  little boring in the evenings,same old chat ,same music videos, so once youve enjoyed a pleasant meal theres nothing much going on.I dont want discos or tv bars but theres not even a decent stroll to take as theres no real  harbour etc.
We are certain that ,as the facilities are now , Plakias would NOT appeal to families as a holiday resort so why argue the case at all?
This is just our opinion.
My sentiments entirely and a few years ago I answered a guy who was making his first trip with his wife and two small children and told him exactly that. I've no idea if he still went as I don't remember a response.
Re: The far end, it's a total unoffensive area located at the 'far end' of the beach for visitors to take advantage of and be naked if they want to, that's why it's at the far end away from the rest of the 'ordinary' sunworshippers. It's not seen from the road and it's not overlooked by any high rise buildings as far as I'm aware, so why all all this discussion about it. You go there because you know it's there and want to make use of it, and if you don't you don't! Easy peesy, simples!

george g...
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: Barny on June 27, 2013, 03:27:41 PM
What time do you call this George?
I've been here ages you know? Where's this far end massage place?   
Title: Re: Sun Beds
Post by: George on July 01, 2013, 10:07:19 AM
What time do you call this George?
I've been here ages you know? Where's this far end massage place?
Hiya Barny! Massage? Far End? Nahhhhh!