Messages

1

Plakias / Reporting In

« on: September 16, 2007, 11:00:31 PM »

John,

We'll let you know if, and when, we get a reply to our letter from XL.  

As other planes landed at Heraklion that day without any problem, it remains a mystery why our's could not despite several attempts.  Each time we began our descent, the pilot aborted the landing as he approached the airport.  After circling for about an hour, we were taken to Chania for refuelling.  We were disembarked from the plane and taken to a departure lounge in Chania where we waited for an hour before reboarding.  Then we went through the same routine again, i.e. aborted attempts at landing at Heraklion, and circling for about another hour.  Eventually, the pilot headed back to Chania where we disembarked again.   After about another two hours waiting around for some news, we were directed to bagage hall to collect our luggage, and then put on coaches to Heraklion.  After a two hour journey by road, we eventaully arrived in Heraklion at 11.30pm.  Our scheduled arrival time should have been 3pm!  Like everyone else, we were exhausted and shattered, having been up since 5am.  

We know these things happen now and again, and would accept that we unlucky on this occasion.  But, perhaps one of the most disappointing aspects is that, at no point, anyone from XL offered any refreshments during our delay, not even a glass of water!

The good thing is we were soon able to put it out of our minds when woke up the next day in Plakias, and saw the fantastic view from our balcony - a view of the sea and the bay with the headlands and surrounding mountains.  It took our breath away.  Having arrived at 2.30 in the morning, this was our first view of Plakias in the daylight.  It's something we won't forget.

P & S

2

Plakias / Reporting In

« on: September 16, 2007, 08:26:25 PM »

Our first visit to Plakias, 2 – 9 September 2007

We travelled independently from Manchester airport, having booked our flights with Excel.  The outbound journey was a nightmare.  We arrived at Heraklion nine hours late, having spent most of the day circling above the airport and landing (twice!) at Chania.

Due to this delay, we had difficulty collecting our pre-booked hire car from Heraklion airport and then, worse still, had to drive through the night on unfamiliar mountain roads to Plakias.  We eventually arrived (safe and sound but absolutely exhausted) at our accommodation (Paligremnos) at 2.30 in the morning.  The place was deserted but they had kindly left the front door open with a note directing us to our room.

We chose Paligremnos mainly because of its proximity to the beach.  We are pleased to report that the accommodation is exactly as advertised on their web site - a studio room with a sea view, balcony and air conditioning.  It contained a comfortable double bed, bathroom with shower, loads of hot water, and a fridge and kettle.  The room was cleaned each day and clean towels were also provided.  All this for 35 euros a night for both of us.  What a very reasonable price!  But for anyone who wants a swimming pool and tv, it’s not for you.

On the first morning, and every subsequent morning, we opted to purchase our breakfast downstairs where we sat on the restaurant terrace.  A pleasant and relaxing start to the day after the trauma of our long journey.  We would not hesitate to stay here again next time we visit Plakias.

We chose a holiday in Plakias after reading all the favourable comments on this forum, and seeing Harribobs’ wonderful photos of Plakias and the surrounding area.  Thanks to everyone who contributes to, and maintains, this valuable resource.

We found the resort to be exactly what we expected – a scenic bay surrounded by mountains; not overdeveloped but with sufficient restaurants, bars and shops for purchasing the necessary provisions etc.

We spent most our time during the day relaxing on the sandy beach opposite Paligremnos.  The sea temperature was just right and very pleasant for cooling off.  The beach facilities were excellent – sunbeds, sun shades and showers.  The lad who looks after this part of the beach (Freddie I think) is a friendly character who enjoys a laugh and joke with all his customers.

The weather was good – sunny and warm.  The famous wind did sometimes get up but most days there was just a pleasant sea breeze.  On the one day when it was too windy on Plakias beach, we took the opportunity to sunbath at Amoudaki where it was more sheltered.

Following the recommendations of regular contributors to this forum, in the evenings we visited the following restaurants: Lysseos, Gioma, Medousa, Tasomanolis (twice) and the Panorama in Mirthios.  We found the food, service and prices to be very good everywhere we went.  We were amazed that you could choose a harbour side table without being charged premium rates for the privilege of sitting there (like in most other resorts).   We will add some further information about our meals in the Articles pages when we get round to it.

During our short stay in Plakias, we used our hire car to visit Mirthios, Sellia, Prevali Monastery, Souda and Amoudi.

Overall, it was a very relaxing and enjoyable holiday.  Our return journey and flight home were without any problems, and everything was on schedule. We look forward to returning to Plakias in the not too distant future.

P.S.  If you would like to see some of our photos of Plakias, they can be found on this link  http://www.flickr.com/gp/58428615@N00/8ATc4o

P and S

3

Plakias / 2007 questions

« on: June 26, 2007, 11:34:12 PM »

As a newbie due to make my first visit to Plakias later this year, could anyone inform me if refreshments and snacks are available on the beach at the Far End?  If so, are there sandwiches and drinks to takeaway at reasonable prices?

Secondly, what's the price for a couple of sunbeds and and a parasol for daily hire?

Thanks to those who take the trouble to reply.

4

Where to stay / stella studios

« on: March 20, 2007, 09:10:04 PM »

Thanks for the tips, John.

I was a little worried about the night time journey on unfamiliar country roads.  Bad enough to get lost in daylight!  As I mentioned previously, whether we go to Plakias is going to depend on getting a flight from Manchester at a reasonable price.  Thanks again.  If we do decide to go, I will definately email you for directions from the airport, and any other advice for first time visitors.

Regards to all for the good info provided on this friendly forum.

5

Where to stay / stella studios

« on: March 19, 2007, 11:31:00 PM »

Couple of questions for John R (or anyone else) from a newcomer.

I have just checked the BA prices, Manchester / Heraklion in September.  Over £200 each.  Is this not expensive?

The fligts arrive after 10pm in the evening.  Is this not too late to travel in a hire car to Plakias?  Any tips for staying one night somewhere near the airport before travelling on to Plakias?

We have never been to Plakias before but would like to give it a try after reading everyone's comments on this excellent forum.