Having missed out last year due to unforeseen circumstances, I have spent a few hours this last week trying to secure a fortnight back in Plakias in mid July for 3 people.
Always with an eye on the Olympic site, after having got two weeks a couple of years ago at Kostas C for daughter #1 and myself at a ridiculous price (c.£250 inc flights, accom & xfer), I lost my bottle and fell sweetly back in to arranging independently. At this weeks prices (for Dora studios) I beat it for daughter #1, daughter #2 and myself. I am sure the
Olympic prices will fall on a weekly basis, turning this 'win' into a 'loss' in the next few weeks, but it's the price I am glad to pay for peace of mind and standard of accommodation. Independent was certainly more expensive last year (when I missed out).
Several emails were sent enquiring of availabilty, and all received a reply. Some offering what I think were spectacular bargains, others whilst not being able to give exactly what we needed seemingly were bending over backwards to try to help. Some were more expensive having possibly misinterpreted what I asked for and offering twin apartments.
Even after thanking the owners for their replies and informing them I had found alternative accommodation, I received further emails thanking me for my negative advice and wishing us a happy holiday. Almost brings a tear to the eye; some of them we can patronise, via their tavernas (and we will), others we cannot. I think this spirit of friendlyness is what has got me hooked on the place and into returning year after year (when I can).
I just wanted to highlight the possibilities to those caught in two minds; cost of self arranged flights and a well chosen apartment might get you something that exceeds that on offer in a more 'convenient' package, and you can make new friends. Ok, so I am missing out on the transfer, but the 3 hour+ coach ride is a two way trip to be endured in my mind.
Driving down from Chania (missing out Iraklion airport altogether;-) ) via Imbros gorge & Rodakino is almost worth the hire costs on its own.
So if a bit of blatent advertising is allowed to support our Plakias hosts:
From Georgia at Paligremnos.com
Thank you for letting me know your plans. Perhaps we will see you when you come to the taverna.
From skinos-plakias.com
Hello again from Plakias!
Everythink is fine for us!!
Hope you have found a nice place and wish you to have a great time in our beautiful place!!
Family Katsaragakis.
From Eleni at plakias-studios.gr (located back road beyond Medusa I think?)
Thank you
Have a nice holiday.
others:
manolis-apartments.gr
enploplakias.gr
thetisstudios@gmail.com
and there are dozens more I didn't contact on
http://www.plakias-filoxenia.gr, and some of you might wish to add your favourites?
Check 'em out
Ian
