Happy new year everyone.
I'd really value your opinions and recommendations.
We usually travel to Greece as a family of 5; myself, other half and sons 19, 17 and 11.
This year, for a number of reasons, it will just be my youngest son and I going away and I can't decide what to do.
In previous years we have stayed in Kassiopi, Paleo, Sidari (not our cup of tea), San Stefanos, Samos, Skopelos, Parga, Pefkos. I like quieter and unspoilt resorts with a typically Greek village atmosphere, don't like shades of Blackpool abroad. Having said that I also have to take my son's needs into consideration and I don't want a bored pre-teenager on my hands.
Also, I'm worried about feeling lonely and want somewhere friendly where it'll be easy to meet other people without feeling like a gooseberry, or a third wheel as my sons would say! It can be hard making conversation when everyone is in a group or couple.
Looking to go during half term, first week in June.
Ideas please
Message posted by suffolk-steve on 03 January 2012 at 7:17am - IP Logged
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Sssshhhh there may be people from Blackpool on this site ;-) perhaps your son may like Sidari, beach, small water park, and think you covered most places apart from Butlins, but sure the answers will come flowing in, happy 2012 holiday
Message posted by Viv D on 03 January 2012 at 9:01am - IP Logged
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I have put these links below. Agios Gordios is a lovely village and I do not think you would have a problem here with keeping your Son amused as he could walk around the Village quite happily.
Well there are four choices. We all have our own opinions of places and maybe one of these will give you the things you are looking for. Each one of them is lovely in their own way.
Viv
Message posted by SusieH on 03 January 2012 at 11:49am - IP Logged
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What you need is a village where locals live and tourism is secondary so there are plenty of youngsters around for him to make friends with
It rather depends on what your son likes to do, many villages have all year round football pitches and volleyball nets set up at which locals youngsters congregate to play. Some villages have a bar with a snookers table where younger kids are welcome
I like quieter resorts but have been to several that more or less fit this bill and local kids and visitors make friends and find plenty to do
Acharvi on Corfu is one, staying at somewhere like the Eriva but I would also recommend Haraki on Rhodes
Petra on Lesbos would also suit you both
I am sure others will come up with other suggestion both in and outside Corfu
Message posted by sedgi on 03 January 2012 at 12:16pm - IP Logged
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Hi having been to many places on Corfu we too like the quieter areas last year went to San Stefanos we loved it but son 13 was bored for most of the time except when in the pool or watching DVD's. We ended up going to Sidari most days when not out and about. He enjoys the freedom of popping in the arcade or on the internet for an hour he loves it there his words so hence we are going back this year to the Stema 2 really near to all amenities but not slap bang in the middle. Hope this helps first went 21 years ago for our Honeymoon and been 15 times since. Love it!
Message posted by Kerstin on 04 January 2012 at 2:23pm - IP Logged
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I would also suggest Acharavi and why not bring one of your sons friends as well?
Stay in Sun Village, a small studio-hotell with a nice pool-area.
Look for activity's at castawaytravel.com
Message posted by Wynne on 04 January 2012 at 2:47pm - IP Logged
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When my son was that age we twice spent a week at the Corfu Holiday Palace in Kanoni. I think it's rather pricey for what it is but my son loved it. It has a swimming pool, bowling, pool tables, table tennis and the 'clincher' for him was tennis lessons with a professional. I don't know if the same guy (Phil) is still there but he was great with kids and very patient. It also had some evening entertainment and was a short bus ride into town - which again my son loved.
To be honest it wouldn't now be our first choice but for an eleven year old it was perfect!
Message posted by muffy on 04 January 2012 at 7:15pm - IP Logged
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How about Roda? Quieter than Sidari but has the beach and horse riding plenty of shops and bars you can take him in. We have taken our granddaughter for many years from the age of 6 and she is now 14 and loves Roda, we have booked to stay there for the first time this year, and looking forward to it. Book into a smaller hotel then you will meet more people to talk to I find the bigger hotels and higher star rating people tend to keep more to them selves, the smaller are more friendly and so you will soon pal up with people. I have made some life long friends in the smaller ones and meet up regular with them some over 10 years, so book and dont worry you will be OK.
Message posted by smg on 04 January 2012 at 7:22pm - IP Logged
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Thank you all so much for your replies, it means a lot. There are some good ideas so I will enjoy checking out all your recommendations. My son enjoys playing in the pool, body boarding and snorkelling, table tennis and playing pool. We usually choose small and friendly hotels where we can get to know the staff and locals, and it's easier for my son to make friends.
I'd probably choose somewhere like that again as it can be hard to make friends in larger hotels and I'm a bit worried about feeling like Billy no-mates.
I'll let you know if I make any decisions but please keep your ideas coming, exploring the net is half the fun
Thanks again x
Message posted by corfu cal on 05 January 2012 at 1:11am - IP Logged
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Hi
Last year spent a week in Kassiopi just my son then 9 and myself. 2 years before that the two of us went to Messonghi. Always have small basic accommodation preferably with a pool, easy to get chatting and playing then. Go for it and have a great holiday.
Message posted by Boobyjood on 05 January 2012 at 1:49am - IP Logged
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Thanks Cal, Kassiopi is one of my first choices at the moment and it's good to know someone else who's been as a single parent.
We stayed at Nelly apartments about 5 years ago, without the children. Also visited 2 years ago on a day trip from San Stefanos with 2 of the boys. My younger son really liked it.
Where did you stay, and was it easy to meet people?
I've been looking at Dimas, Theofilos, Bellavista, all seem to get great reviews but don't know which would suit our needs best.
Message posted by dawn and graeme on 05 January 2012 at 9:51am - IP Logged
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We have stayed at Bella Vista and its lovely very nice pool with plenty of beds, also lovely bar and snack area with great meals, also Rob and Nicky are great hosts.
Message posted by weshamers on 05 January 2012 at 11:08am - IP Logged
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Kassiopi is a good choice. Have a look at Solaris apartments right in the centre of the village, just down a side street, so not noisy at night. Lovely pool that is open to public as well for price of a drink, they have their own web site with lots of info. Also been to Bella Vista pool but not stayed there, very friendly can spend a full day there taking in the veiws, chatting, swimming and making new friends. Sure wherever you choose in this village you will find lots of friendly folk, both locals and holiday makers. I would not hesitate to go here on my own and Im 62 lol xxx
Message posted by kinninviekid on 05 January 2012 at 1:08pm - IP Logged
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Kassiopi would be my choice.
Plenty of local kids his age and they are all so friendly and polite.
I know of quite a few single parents who holiday there.
Message posted by S and J on 05 January 2012 at 2:45pm - IP Logged
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Hi Boobyjood, you mentioned Theofilis as one of your choices and also mentioned you stayed at Nelly some years ago. The Theofilis is right next door to the Nelly so you will know what views Theofilis has to offer. The Theofilis apartments don't have a snack bar like the other two on your short list but there is a little snack bar on Kalimionas Bay that would serve you well. Easy for your son to go snorkelling too as it's just out of the gate and straight onto the beach. Vivi and her family will look after you very well if you choose Theofilis. I've never stayed at Dimas or Bella Vista but know that both have a snack bar and both have an incline to the pool and some of the apartments. No matter where you stay I'm sure you'll have a great time.
Sandra
Message posted by Boobyjood on 05 January 2012 at 10:06pm - IP Logged
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Thanks again for your continued response.
I'm useless at making decisions, it all looks lovely especially you're sitting inside on a winters day with the wind howling outside.
I'm going to present my shortlist to my son this evening and ask his opinion. I love the idea of Theofilis as it's great being able to step out onto the beach and we really valued the views when we stayed at Nelly. The only downside is not having a bar where you can meet other residents. We had a welcome drink at Solaris when we stayed at Nelly, at the time we thought it was a little too busy but we didn't have our boys with us then.
I've been checking out flights, we would fly from Manchester. Quite pricey as it's school hols, between £600 and £700 for 2 Thankfully the accommodation seems really good value.
Has anyone stayed at Dimas?
Not sure how much I relish the idea of the big hill on a hot day, but it'd keep me fit and maybe allow me an extra Mythos or two...
Message posted by NIGEL on 05 January 2012 at 10:44pm - IP Logged
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Corfu or School?? Corfu or School?? No contest really!! Try 1st week in August, more time to save up, more Children around in the resort and still under £390 for the 2 of you including bags and day time flights.
Message posted by kinninviekid on 06 January 2012 at 12:41am - IP Logged
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If you go for Theofilus we will be in the bungalow opposite when you are there.
We would be more than happy to introduce you to the many friends we have met there over the years.
Seasons bar is just at the end of the lane and has computers and pool for your lad and the owners eldest son is about your lads age.
Last time we were there he even brought his playstation down for our lads to play with.
Message posted by Boobyjood on 06 January 2012 at 1:23am - IP Logged
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Sadly can't really go during term time, although contemplating taking son out of school for 2 days so we can go for 10 days.
And if there are cheaper flights in August I might have to go back again We usually go away in August but my eldest son has recently started his Royal Marine Commando training and his Passing Out could be around then, hence the earlier dates.
Bob n Rosey, that's really kind of you to offer to meet. I will definitely take you up on that if we stay at the Theofilos. I've emailed the places on my shortlist to check availability so may leave it to fate...
My son has fond memories of our holiday in Northern Cyprus 3 years ago, but I'm sure if I could cope with the longer flight time and journey with him as he doesn't do sitting still.
Message posted by Boobyjood on 07 January 2012 at 12:33pm - IP Logged
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I've been busy emailing some of my choices, unfortunately haven't yet secured the right deal for the right flight dates but still waiting to hear from a couple of places. Theofilos can't do our exact dates but can accommodate us at Pagona house next door. My son isn't keen though as he wanted to be able to step out to the pool or sea.
I've also been looking at Agios Gordios as this has been recommended by a few people. It looks lovely and I particularly like the look of Stevens on the Hill and Sebastians. I've emailed the owners to check availability, but would welcome any recommendations you lovely people can make.
Not sure what I will do in the evenings once I finally book this holiday, I love spending time surfing tinterweb for sunshine
Message posted by NIGEL on 07 January 2012 at 12:45pm - IP Logged
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We have been to AG 7 times now and stayed at Sebastians 4 times, in the family villa, both new apartments and a room. They have been reburbished to an even higher standard including power showers. Seb and Tee are great hosts, you will leave feeling part of the family. They have a great Taverna with Anna running the kitchen, she is a superb cook. Plenty of other Tavernas along the main street and on the beach with some chilled out bars like the Ark who often have live Greek music. If you can handle staying up till the small hours then there is Robins Nest and Mikes Bar. Great sandy beach with water sports, we love it!!
Message posted by Boobyjood on 07 January 2012 at 1:25pm - IP Logged
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Thanks for that info Nigel. It certainly gets glowing reports on TA so reassuring to also hear first hand from a satisfied customer as well. My only concern was if it would be suitable for my son as most people staying seem to be couples? I realise there is no pool but get the impression that Stevens on the Hill is nearby and available for use. I think I would struggle to decide between the two if they are both available. Do you prefer AG to Kassiopi?
Message posted by NIGEL on 07 January 2012 at 1:59pm - IP Logged
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Both places seem attract couples, have only seen a few families on my visits. Beach is only 3 minutes from Sebastians, lots of families there. I like Kassiopi but prefer AG, its just such a friendly little resort. There are other pools that you can use in the resort, Aloha Hotel has a very nice Eco pool overlooking the village, Sea Breeze attracts families, on the beach and a nice Taverna.
Message posted by Viv D on 07 January 2012 at 4:14pm - IP Logged
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They are just 30 feet away from the Bus Stop that you can catch to Corfu Town and they also do have a lot of children there of all ages and nationalities.
Viv
Message posted by corfu cal on 07 January 2012 at 4:57pm - IP Logged
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Hi,
Sorry for delay replying!
Last year my son and I stayed at Lofos apartments Kassiopi. On hill overlooking village but only 5 minute walk to centre. Lovely pool with other families so easy to get to meet a few folks. Kassiopi really friendly, I felt very at home wandering around village on evening with my son and we both got talking to other holiday makers of different nationalities who we would bump into through the week. My son liked to fish off the harbour in the evening and when he actually caught a fish, a local helped him unhook it and we let him take it home to cook for his supper.
Message posted by Boobyjood on 07 January 2012 at 11:26pm - IP Logged
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Cal, sounds like you had a lovely time in Kassiopi. I have fond memories of having a drink and lunch at the harbour and my son feeding the fish with his bread.
After lots of surfing and emailing I have made a shortlist of 3, in this order of preference:
1) Sebastians, but no reply yet so don't know about availability
2) Stevens on the Hill, sadly only availability is in building 2 which I'm unsure about
3) Theofilos, would have to stay at Pagona next door
Wish it was more straightforward! Thinking I should bite the bullet and at least book the flights as they will go up in price from midnight on Tuesday (Easyjet).
I've posted on AG forum as well to ask if anyone can advise me on Stevens 2.
Hope you're all having a restful weekend x
Message posted by sedgi on 08 January 2012 at 12:45am - IP Logged
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Still think you should go with Sidari after trailing a much loved now thirteen year old around Corfu for much of his life thats where he is happiest. But hope you find your ideal spot when you do let me know! Will be much appreciated x
Message posted by kinninviekid on 08 January 2012 at 12:53am - IP Logged
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Have you tried Panayota apartments
They are directly opposite Theofilus so only another 5 metres from the beach.
There is also Marika apartments which is next door and has a pool.
Message posted by kinninviekid on 08 January 2012 at 12:58am - IP Logged
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I know my two older boys would love Sidari (unfortunately they're not coming with me), but the youngest is quite different. He loves being outdoors, swimming, diving and exploring nature. At home he is a skateboarder, plays guitar and ukulele and rides a unicycle. He also loves animals and the highlight of his holiday in Skopelos last year was befriending the owner's cats and finding a praying mantis!
I'm getting really impatient now and wish Sebastian would reply so I can make my final decision
Message posted by Boobyjood on 08 January 2012 at 1:06am - IP Logged
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Sorry Bob'n'Rosey, just crossed posts, wasn't ignoring you honest. Will have a look at Marika, although son seems stuck on AG now because it's closer to the airport and has a sandy beach x
Message posted by sedgi on 08 January 2012 at 1:11am - IP Logged
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He sounds lovely hope you find some where to make him happy shame you are not going same time as us. My Son met a friend 2 years ago who lives nearby they still take it in turns to visit at weekends and stay at half term. Both quiet like xbox and now play on line and both interested in tang soo do strange after going to Greece meets some one with so much in common small world. x
Message posted by Lavinia on 08 January 2012 at 2:22am - IP Logged
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I think Sea Breeze in Agios Gordis would be brilliant for you. Have you emailed them? I live ten minutes inland from AG and Sea Breeze is one of our favourite local spots and our guests just love it too. If you manage to book it up, you are very welcome to visit our house between AG and Corfu town to see how we "permanent" people live!!
Message posted by alehouse on 08 January 2012 at 1:09pm - IP Logged
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Ive been to Kassiopi on my own for years and trust me the locals make you so welcome even if your on your own when you arrive your never on your own for very long, The locals are so family friendly and really make an effort to help you enjoy your stay, And there is a few beaches about the place for your son to enjoy his sports there is internet cafes swimming pools and places to play pool so a little bit for everyone. Hope this helps
Derek
Message posted by Boobyjood on 08 January 2012 at 1:10pm - IP Logged
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That's a lovely kind offer thank you, might just take you up on that!
Sea Breeze was one of the first places I emailed as I knew my son would love the beach location, sadly though they have no vacancies
Hoping everything is OK at Sebastians as I notice their website hasn't been updated to include 2012 bookings and I still haven't had a reply. Seems it can be booked through Expedia or booking.com but I prefer to deal directly with the owner.
Message posted by Boobyjood on 08 January 2012 at 1:19pm - IP Logged
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I am touched my the responses I've had and feel reassured that wherever we go in Corfu that making friends shouldn't be too difficult
I have been to Spain a couple of times with 2 of my sons and I found it quite difficult to get chatting to anyone else as they all seemed to be in ready formed groups of friends and family, and I'm not that confident in pushing myself forward! My heart belongs to the Greek Islands and I'm sure there will be lots of friendly faces waiting to greet us in Corfu x
Message posted by alehouse on 08 January 2012 at 1:23pm - IP Logged
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Thank you so much Nigel, just had a reply!
Delighted that they can accommodate us, just got to choose between studio and apartment and decide if we want HB option but it"s a goer!
I've booked the flights too so really relieved and excited.
Can't thank you all enough for your patience and support.
Let the countdown (and diet) begin!
Jude x
Message posted by Gill B on 08 January 2012 at 3:56pm - IP Logged
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Gill B
Hi Jude,
Glad you've got sorted. Agios Gordios is a lovely, friendly place, I'm sure you will both have a great time.
There are loads of good places to eat so wouldn't bother with the half board option.
We thought that last year but it was so hot in June we had to shelter in the taverna's most of the afternoons!!
Quite an exception last year and even the locals were complaining about the heat and humidity.
Message posted by Viv D on 08 January 2012 at 10:21pm - IP Logged
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Thankfully the accommodation seems really good value.
We usually go away in August but my eldest son has recently started his Royal Marine Commando training and his Passing Out could be around then, hence the earlier dates.
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