Kardamena Hotels and Apartments M - Z
Operator and Date: July 2005
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : Wendy Squires - Hampshire 50, 54
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We arrived at the Mammis Beach studios at 4.00am in total darkness. Our Libra Rep told us our keys were in our rooms.
We searched our rooms for ages, not that there was a lot to search and found no keys. We were unable to lock our door and therefore unable to go to sleep.
The Libra 'wallpaper' stated that we are responsible for the safety and security of our belongings at all times as did our travel insurance so we, together with the other 3 parties who arrived the same time were unable to sleep because our studio rooms were accessible at all times.
the owner was unable to understand why we were so disatisfied but explained he could not leave the keys for security reasons, they might have been stolen? It did not seem to metter to either him or Libra that we were left without any secure way of keeping ourselves and our belongings safe from the time of arrival until 8.30 am in the morning. What a way to start the holiday.
The rooms had little in the way of furniture and the kitchen comprised of a two ring hob with a saucepan (which was dirty) and a frying pan. Two plates, two cups, two teaspoons, two knives and two forks.
The nearest supermarket was 40+ minutes walk away and food at the site restaurant was adequate some days and poor and uneatable other days.
Lucky the weather was excellent and the company of the other travellers who arrived the same time was brilliant.
The owners wife was wonderfull and helpful, and could understand the points we were complaining about. Unfortunately,
it would appear that the wives of Greek Men have little say in business matters.
This was not the best holiday I have been on and unfortunately, Libra only want your money, customer satisfaction is not their concern.
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Mammis Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Libra Discounts) Libra - June 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : M 34, F 29
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from a week in Mammis Beach and have to say we agree with all of the positive comments in the previous reviews. We do not however agree with the negative comments about George, the owner of the hotel.
We were given a very warm welcome, treated with the utmost respect and had many a good laugh with George during our stay. No one who was staying there during our time had anything other than compliments for him!! We could not have asked for a friendlier host!! He even cooked a roast dinner on Saturday evening especially for those of us who were leaving in the early hours of Sunday morning. Renate was also very pleasant and we had some great laughs with Gianni the barman (despite his misconceptions about what makes a good football team...!!)
We spent most of our time at the hotel - we did wander into town a few times, but found that all of our needs were met in the hotel. The studios are very clean, and although they are basic, they were certainly well enough equipped.
George's BBQ should not be missed - great food, loads of it, and a very entertaining quiz (hint - you might like to count things around the pool area in case you find yourself in a tie break situation!!) Great night.
All in all, we could not fault our holiday. We would certainly go to the same hotel again if we return to Kos and Kardemena.
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Mammis Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Olympic Direct) Olympic - 2005 / 2006
Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : Jane Hodgkinson
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
The owner/ manager of the hotel made it incredibly difficult for me and my boyfriend to eat outside of thehotel, despite the fact that we had booked a self-catering holiday! As on our first night we went into the centre to eat the very next day he decided that because we hadn't (paid) and eaten his food then the sunbeds around the pool would no longer be free to us. Obviously we complained to our rep about this and got it sorted. As a young couple we wanted cheap accomodation and to eat in lots of different restaurants and to take part in the night life. he couldn't understand us not wanting to eat his food every night or even us going to the beach! he actually came over and shouted at us at one point as we left the pool to go to the beach.
I imagine that if you stay on the right side of him (i.e. you stay in the very small complex the whole of the time), he is a very nice man. On the last night as we waited for our coach he tried to make his peace with us by buying us a drink each. Im sorry but this was too little too late.
As for the accomodation: basic but fine. Had a great holiday. Would definitly not recommend this to young families due to the trek to nearest supermarket/beach and also to anyone who likes high standards! For basic accomodation it served its purpose.
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Mammis Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Libra Discounts) Libra 2005
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : dianne northampton family
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
returned from this resort and although the location is good and the place clean the owner ruined the holiday, we did not spend a lot of money at his bar as we went selfcatering he was rude and threatened to cut off the power if we did not eat at his bar.i thought i went selfcatering but he made it so hard for us to do that. never would i go back to this place even if somebody paid me.
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Mammis Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Olympic Direct) Olympic - September 2004
Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Debbie (23), Marc (21), Sarah (20) & Matt (23) - Leeds
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Mammis Beach Apartments sit just on the outskirts of Kardamena..A short 30mins from the airport..We arrived at around 4am and found ourselves in 2 lovely apartemnts situated on the ground floor..it is advisable to bring some pre-bought water or drinks with you if you are arriving at that time as the pool bar shuts about 3am and with the weather being as hot as it was we were gagging for a drink!!..the apartemnts are basic but where isn't in Greece?..
As previuosly mentioned it does get warm on a night so rent a fan or get some a/c!..the pool area is very good and clean, George and his staff are very friendly and will help you no matter what..the food and drinks are reasonably priced and of good quality..
Kardamena is about a 30-40 mins walk, but taxi's are cheap enough at 6 euro and are easy enough to catch..just ask at the bar and they will order one for you..getting them in town is easy too just go to the top of the square..Kardamena is a busy resort with plenty of good bars and restaurants our favorites being Mojo's Bar on the front and Nemo's restaurant..very nice!..
We hired some Buggys for the day and went round the island - what a laugh!!..We went everywhere, much cheaper than the excursions, plus you can do what you want and go where you want..these cost around 100 euro for 2 days..
Overall Mammis Beach is very nice and even though it is a taxi ride form the centre its ideal for those who like their accomadation not over a bar!
I would recomend anyone to stay there regardless of age or anything else..
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Mamouzelos - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Olympic Direct) Olympic - 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Nicola 25, Sarah 25, Jo 26, Grant 26, Katrina 28
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We had a great time in Kardamena,The hotel was great, accomodation is pretty basic but its sufficient. Leftkis, the owner is really lovely, very helpful and welcoming and made our stay even more enjoyable ejoyed many Smirnoff ices in the bar with him (what a bargain at 2 euros).
Lots of lovely restaurants in Kardemena, our favourites were probably Yianni's & Scala.
We went to Bubble beach which was a bit of a dissapointment ~ there were no bubbles to be seen apart from those coming off the boat that dropped us in there ~ it's good to go to if your into water sports however.
As for nightlife, Bar 1960's was great, they play really good music (shame it gets turned off at 12) & always has a great atmosphere & then the two main clubs Staus & Starlight. Wish we were back there now x
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Mamouzelos - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Manos Discounts) Manos - October 2004
Opinion submitted in Nov 2004 by : Mark Douglas - Nottingham (44, 32, 16)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We stayed here in October 2004, wish I was still there, only been back a week and it seems like I've been back a year.
These apartments were very good, spacious with a large wardrobe and balcony. Three beds not the usual two and a fold out settee.
They were cleaned every other day but Sunday and sheets and towels changed weekly. Safety Deposit box in every room and only 30 euros for the week.
About 5 three minutes walk from the cocktails and dreams end of the resort, which is the quieter end.
Close to restaurants, bars and shops, but far enough away that they don't become a nuisance.
Leftis, the owner, was a good bloke, always ready to help out with an extra blanket or pillow when needed, well it does get cold at night in October. You get as good an exchange rate at the apartments as anywhere in town, so didn't have to carry passport around all the time to change traveller's cheques.
Spent many a dawn hour between one and three drinking in the bar after the missus and stepdaughter had gone to bed.
Anyone who wants to stay here in the future, please note that he is now ditching Manos and going with Argo Holidays.
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Mamouzelos - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Manos Discounts) Manos - October 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Myself - 35
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I stayed here in October and had a fab holiday, the apartments were quite good for Greek standards and in quite a good location, just a few mins walk to the beach and about 5 mins to the start of the bars, and about 10 mins towards the main square. I was on the top floor over looking the Agrelis Hotel, (Could be a little noisy in peak season as the Agrelis has a 24 hr bar,) My room was quite large and was kept clean throughout my stay. Leftis the owner is a lovely guy, have a drink in his bar before venturing out !!!
It was my first time in Kos and really enjoyed the holiday, went on a couple of trips, also just to add, don't book ANY trips through the reps, I was told by the rep that a day trip to Turkey would be 49 Euros which included the 10 Euro entry fee into Turkey, we ended up booking through the travel agency in the square and it cost 29 Euros and it was only 1 Euro to enter into Turkey, not 10 as he said, so be careful there as all the trips are cheaper if you book them yourselves. Bubble beach is well worth a visit and there really are bubbles coming up from the sea, it was facinating !!
All in all a great holiday was had by all.
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Mamouzelos - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Manos Discounts) Manos (MyTravel) - 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Jayne Bradshaw - Wigan (30,30,2,28,31,39,39,8,13)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Kardamena is a good all round resort - busy if you want it, quieter if thats what you want.
Mamouzelos apartments are very good in comparison to some other places we have stayed - the rooms are large (we had a studio for 3) with a basic kitchenette + kettle but it did the job. The bathroom was clean and had a shower curtain which seems to be luxury in greek apartments!
The rooms were swept and bins emptied twice a week and clean linen once a week. We had no problems with the rooms at all whilst there.
Leftis who runs the apartments was very nice and welcoming, we had a good few drinks in the bar before going out for the night.
The only down side we had was the noise - this only applied to the side of the building overlooking the supermarket - we found that lots of the transfer coaches stopped there and we had mopeds up and down all night.
A good beach bar is Chris' (run by Mike and Chris and their 3 daughters) straight down the road from Mamouzelos and it is right on the beach - they do food which is very good (Mike's home made burgers are excellent) and are open all day and as late as you want them to be!
Wish I was sat there having an ice-frosted glass of beer!
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Marina Studios - Kardamena
Operator and Date: low cost beds-August 2005
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : 4girls 1 boy 17-20
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Upon arrival to the apartments we got what we expected. The accomodation was basic but we got what we paid for. We had booked 2 rooms and one was clean. The other had a dirty sheet so due to wanting to settle in we didnt have time on the first day to tell the cleaner or owner we just wanted to get on with the holiday. The rooms were cleaned and we found the same dirty bedsheet back on the bed. When we did take it up with the owner she began arguing with us and saying that if we dirty the sheets again we can lick them. After this the manager said that no one who isnt staying in the hotel can come inside night or day or we would be kicked out, so our friends had to stay outside the hotel whenever we had to go back in.
Most of the other locals are also generally rude no matter how polite you are to them, I was told that I was going to get a slap in my face because I gave my friend a lift on a push bike that I had rented.
The actual resort is good if you can dance to all sorts of music all night long
NOT A PLACE FOR R&B, HIP HOP, OR BASHMENT LOVERS.
compared to all other young and lively resorts the water sports are really expensive.
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Marina Studios - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Olympic Direct) Olympic Holidays - August 2004
Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Darren - Coventry (26,27,28)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
On arrival at the Marina Studios we went straight to our room as there did not seem to be a reception area. In fact it is difficult to see that there are any apartments there. The Marina Studios is located close to the Agrellis Hotel/Apartments.
First impressions of the room were very good, it had a balcony overlooking a tree-lined courtyard, a refridgerator, electric hob, cupboard space. There was also a fan inside the room. Use of the fan is priced at 15 Euros per week but is worth it. There is a safety deposit box inside the wardrobe which is built into the mortar - priced at 7 Euros per week.
On closer inspection two out of three beds in the room collapsed on sitting on them. We were later told that this was due to contraction of the wooden slats across the bed frame due to air moisture/tempurature. We fixed them ourselves but the beds did collapse again once or twice during the holiday. I suspect this was only a problem in our room as no-one else mentioned this to us.
The room tempurature was surprisingly very cool and the mosquitos were less than I have experienced in other Kardamena Hotels/Apartments.
Main amenities and beach are about 2/3 minutes walk from the apartments. Below the apartments there is a small bar and comfy seating area, this is not really anything to do with the hotel but was nice to go to all the same. The owner of the bar is called Yannis and was very friendly. You can get travellers cheques changed at this bar for the cost of 1 euro.
The apartment owner is an Australasian lady called Marina, hence the name of the apartments. She has a set cleaning rota for cleaning the rooms and prefers you not to be in the room when she cleans it. If you are in the room, the room does not get cleaned. Marina works in a local restaurant in the square so you can phone her on the internal phone system during certain hours or see her at the restaurant during other hours.
We were very impressed with the bathrooms which had a real bath in them, a shower head, a sink and toilet and a proper shower curtain which is always a plus. The only thing that let the bathroom down was that the door did not close properly so we used a wooden stool to prop it closed for privacy.
This hotel does not have its own pool, however you can use the pool at the nearby Agrellis Hotel/Apartments which is good. We used the pool at the nearby Mikargy Hotel which is 3/4 minutes walk. One word of warning about pool use - you are requested to buy at least one drink from the hotel whose pool you use and don't take your own food/drink as you may be told off/told to leave if you do not, we think this is fair.
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Mikargy Hotel - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours - Date Not Specified
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Zoe 21, Jaf 20
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
I have to agree with the other comment on here about Kos and the Mikargy hotel - Kos is fab, the Mikargy is pants!!!!!
Kos has some good bars and beaches. The drinks can be a bit over priced but i think its the same everywhere with the Euro now. We really liked The Rock, which was right on the beach and did drinks 24 hours and also good food (yummy snack things like potato skins, chicken wings, etc). We also went to Kos town a couple of times as we hired a scooter and that is really nice and quite international. Some lovely bars but more low key and probably more suited for couples and families.
DO NOT stay at the Mikargy hotel though! As already stated by someone else who stayed there you could take drink to the pool even though there selection was overpriced and basic. We wanted to hire a fan because it was so hot but they had run out. So we went to hire one from a supermarket and got told that we werent aloud that in our room even though they couldnt supply us with one! they told us if we used it they would charge us £20 a day for using electricity. Breakfast consisted of cold tea, a stale roll and a slice of somewhat suspicious ham and cheese. The pool was ok but dirty and one there were often powercuts but we got sworn and shouted at by the owner for lighting a candle on the balcony so we could see what we were doing and told we would burn the place down! Kos = fab, but do not under any circumstances go to the mikargy - you have been warned!!!!!
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Mikri Polis - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Independant - June 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Julie - Scotland
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Mikri Polis Hotel
Meant to be a 5 star hotel but at best is a 3 star based on the room.
The food is terrible, repetative and unadventurous. Is made for Germans. Only one night was there any typical Greek food which was a real disappointment. Snacks were cold and the same rubbish every day.
Drink too is disappointing for a supposedly 5 star hotel, severe lack of decent alcohol.
Entertainment is awful too. Again, tailored for German market.
Room is nice and big and beds changed every day which is great.
Go if it's cheap as the place is clean but take spending money to eat out.
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Mitsis Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: First Choice - 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : MJ - Aylesbury (43,42,15,14,12)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
There are two hotels to choose from in this resort, the Summer Palace and the Beach. The Summer Palace is up a VERY steep hill so anyone with walking difficulty will definately not get on with that. We stayed at the Beach which, funny enough, is on the beach front. This is not a sandy beach but very small stones. Ok for walking but no good for kids sand castles. The water also gets deep quite quickly so questionable for younger children.
There are water sports available but these can be fairly expensive at 5-15 euros depending on activity. Becomes a lot when you have three kids.
One thing to note is the sun beds all go very early, both at the beach and the pools. Get up early like the Germans do eh? I get up early all year round.
The hotel rooms are reasonable but if you have three in one (i.e. the older kids) the third bed is a camp bed. It took us three days to get decent mattress for it.
For two adults its fine but they are two singles pushed together.
The food here is good but is the same every day. Salads are very good, stone cooked pitza nice so no complaints really.
Beware the rotten smell outside in the evenings. This is because the water sprays for the grass recycle the toilet waste... yes really.
I have to mention the entertainment team were superb in a poor hotel. Looked forward to coming home.
Beautiful beaches in the north of Kos - go there instead. Took a hire car to Tigaki. How we wished we had gone there. fyi - Kos Town is a dump.
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Mitsis Family Village - Kardamena
Operator and Date: sunstar - 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : debbie mason 46,54,12,12,
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
right where do I start I paid £2000 4 1 wk all inclusive to this place DNT DO IT before i went i read reviews but thought id make own mind up couldnt eat food because rest full of flies so had to pay to eat out in Kardemena, rooms r terrible for a 4 star hotel more like 3was told that would be able to use sister hotel 4 all inclusive not true watered down beer, no imported drinks in so called bar which closed at 12 am on dot so could not buy any drinks at all after that time, also salt water pools, quite dangerous tiles jutting out whilst we were there a boy about 10yrs came down slide at noriba hotel oops sorry 1st 3 dys gale force winds with the sun this poor lad got blow of slide into concrete side of pool resulting in 75 stitches to face an possible scarring 4 life.
The three hotels noriba, summer palace, family village in complex r all terrible everyone we spoke was complaining,the complex is built on a very steep hill so take climbing gear with you as for entertainment 4 get it which was at noriba no one told us that but you have to pay for drinks no where to sit just awful. Rep u c once at a/port then when u go home thats it. As for Kardemena music stop at 12am then everbody queues for taxi home, but there is normally some entertainment with teenagers fighting bottles over heads, the lot.
I plead with anybody reading this do not waste your money the whole island is worth a visit its was the worst place i have ever been 2. I have visited many greek isle 7 and I would not recommend anyone to go here sorry Kos terrible place especially Noriba, summer palace, family village hotel.
Dont go there at all save yourself some money we spent an extra £700.00 4 our week away never again all inclusive.
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Mitsis Summer Palace - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - June 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Nicola Capaldi - Scotland - 23,24
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
I spent 2 weeks at the Summer Palace in June 2006 with my fiance and to be honest it was the longest 2 weeks of our lives. on arrival at 6am we were left to find our own room and were given the wrong direction not a great start to a holiday and not what you would expect from this standard of hotel.
the food was very poor and was sometimes not labeled correctly so you could have been eating anything. There was a very limited choice. The Italian restaurant was terrible and not worth pre booking.
The entertainment was terrible.
their was un finished building work going on near "disco la boom" which was supposed to be on everynight but it looked derelict.
Their was a loose wire right next to our balcony wich occasionaly sparked and the lamp in our room had masking tape on the wire. i spent one day by the pool the rest of the time i couldnt get a lounger because they were claimed night noon and morning.
On a positive note Kos itself is a beautiful island and i would def go back. we spent a day at Nissyros which was the highlight of our holiday.
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Mitsis Summer Palace - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - May 2006
Opinion submitted in November 2006 by : 28/30
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: No rating
My/Our Holiday Review:
It is now Nov 2006, and up until this point My husband and I have had nothing bad to say about this hotel, the food was nice, the hotel was clean and the staff were friendly enough..
All that has now changed, when we were advised today by a close friend that a video of my husband and I has been posted onto a prngraphic webpage ! thinking that this is obviously a joke we checked it out - and sure enough, we have been filmed in our room and posted onto a site.
We did notice on one occasion that is seemed as though our mirror opposite our bed had been tampered with - now we know why !!
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Mitsis Summer Palace - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- May 2006
Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : 2 adults 2 children aged 9 and 7
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
just returned from summer palace hotel after spending two weeks their. The weather was great the staff are very friendly and the rooms including hotel was very clean. It is rated a five star although we thought including other holiday tourists suggest its a four star.
The food is reasonably good although at times seemed repetative.The children loved the ice creams and down the beach the slush pubbies. There is an Italian resturant which the food is quite nice. The beach is loverly offering free water sports this being canoes and pedal boats the beach bar offers hot dogs and sandwiches which is great aswell with your free drinks.There is a lift which is in use this takes you straight to the beach for those who have difficulty walking. There is also the water park which is also fab for the kids again offering hot dogs and drinks.
The only downfall was the night time entertainment bingo every night and what the animation staff presented each night. Although before we left it seemed to be a bit better. A further fault is that you are not allowed to use the norida beach hotel facilities and have to pay 5 euros each person which their entertaimant was much better but you can use the other hotel in Kos town Ramida mitsis hotel which we thought the food and facilities their was poor.
We hired a car from kardamera town and traveled around the island which was great and visited small villages including paradise beach. We went to Kardamera in the day and night which is very lively at night time for the young ones not suitable for families with small children.
Overall the holiday was great and we would return again but perhaps stay at the norida beach hotel becaue of entertainment and most of the other holiday tourists we met all said they would return again to the hotel.
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Mitsis Summer Palace - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Sunstar Leisure - June 2005
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Vicky +1 (21,32)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We went away for a weeks break to the summer palace in June and what can i say, it was a beautiful hotel with very helpfull staff and great accommodation.
Our room had a sea view with a private pool ( well we shared it with 6 other rooms ) but only had one day where we had to share it. The hotel had 8 swimming pools so no fighting for sunbeds at all. The food was first class great mixture even my partner ate the food and hes a very fussy eater. all in all i would say this hotel was first class we are going again next June and october aswell reps were great helped with anything we needed help with and the weither was the icing on the cake ;) 5* from us *****
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Mitsis Summer Palace - Kardamena
Operator and Date: SunStar Leisure--May 2005
Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Kelvin & Lynn Cook ( 50 )
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
On arriving at the airport we were met by the rep for Sunstar Leisure to be told due to storm damage to the pool at the Norida Beach Hotel we will be staying at the Summer Palace instead this we found out the next day was not the case, the hotel was shut due to finishing touches to the complex.
On the journey to our hotel we had to stop off and let a couple of people out at another hotel as the coach driver was reversing a tree branch hit and came through the back window almost hitting a family of four who were sitting on the back seat how nobody was injured god only knows the driver took no notice and started to drive off only to be met with shouts of stop from most of the people on the coach. The rep was hopeless it seemed to me all he wanted to do was to get us all to our hotel so he could get home as it was now around 3am in the morning.
Once inside the Summer Palace we were met by a cue of around sixty people all trying to check in, my wife asked if their was any tea or coffee available only to be told it was in your room (it wasnt) after about an hour we were checked in, once in the room no tea or coffee making facilities there.
The hotel was clean but not 5 star in my opinion.
After a sleep we had a walk around the complex it looked ok. That evening we had a meal in the restaurant which was nothing special the bar only had one person serving so it was not uncommon to cue for twenty minutes for a drink after two nights of this we decided to go out for our evening meal and drinks.
We were due to leave the hotel on Sunday the 8th of may at 03.45 in the morning but when I received the flight tickets the time had changed to 19.30 of the 7th of may, on the Friday evening I noticed a lot of people around our tour desk so I went to se what was going on only to be told our flight time had been changed and we had to be out of the hotel and on the coach for the airport for 05.30 on the Saturday morning of the 7th losing a whole day of our holiday so we could catch an 8'oclock flight home (not the case) I asked the rep if he would speak to the hotel reception and authorise a phone call back to England as my car was in a off airport car park but he declined and said I would have to pay for the call. Once checked in at Kos nobody from the tour company was to be seen and no information was given to nobody, at around 10.am two hours after our departure time a Greek aircraft landed Alexander Air we were told this was our aircraft once boarded the craft we were told it was going to fly to Gatwick first then on to Manchester .
Its now around 12'oclock and we are taking off, after a couple of hours in the air the captain told the passengers the aircraft had to do a detour to Vienna for radar problems, this was a scheduled stop for maintaince already planned but again we were kept in the dark so after two hours on the ground at Vienna we were back on the move. Lets not forget we had only been offered a small airline breakfast no more food was available. We arrived at Gatwick around 4pm. So from 05.30 until 16.00 we were only given a small breakfast I find this unacceptable. I would never again consider travelling with Sunstar Leisure as the reps were useless and support from them was nil.
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Mitsis Summer Palace - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Sunstar-August 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Neate/Rollings-53,48,53,44(ish)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Late arrival at hotel, could have done with some help with cases but first impression of reception area was good. Rooms were excellent had upgraded with sea view and were not disappointed. One room had drain problem but was quickly sorted. Would be good if you could leave air con on but as is works off room key it was not possible.
Reception staff helpful but not very bubbly, but bar and restaurant staff excellent. Sometimes they need a smile from us (we sometimes forget that!) also a thankyou goes a long way.
Food in buffet restaurant very good and plentiful, sometimes a little repetitive but you can never please everyone all of the time. Do not see where previous reports of invasion of flies comes from, we saw a few, you always do in hot countries. No evidence of any food poisoning, far from it, the worst you may suffer is alchoholic poisoning from the many drinks that were cheerfully served, self inflicted of course.
Everyone has mentioned how steep the hillside is, did no one see this in the brochures before they booked, also no one has mentioned the very well used cable car up and down to the pool and beach. Shortage of sun loungers was a problem and they certainly get 'taken' very early but you won't see any bodies on them until much later in the morning. Beach bar excellent pleasant service and snacks available. Try the boat trip to Nysirros the volcano has to be seen to be believed.
All in all a very good holiday, and you know what they say 'when in Rome'. If the lack of evening entertainment is a problem do what we did, make your own!!
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Mitsis Summer Palace - Kardamena
Operator and Date: sunleisure - 2004
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Chris - Matt (18,18)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We're going back again this October, loved the place. If only we could meet the two blondes again -wow what a hot holiday!
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Monika Studios - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Golden Sun Discounts) Golden Sun september 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : graham -burnley (50, 50,)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
DONT GO! ! they are dirty and smell the studios are full of damp
kardamena has something for everyone I WILL RETURN but not to monika
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Monika Studios - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Golden Sun Discounts) Golden Sun - july 2004
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Sam Marshall-Hardy - Leamingtom Spa (Midlands) (all friends-17)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
I have just come home from Kardamena and had the best time ever.
The resort was amazing,every where u go the people are amazing and the atmosphere is so laid bk!i went with 7other ppl including my boyfriend so its a cool place for groups and couples.We stayed in monika studios,and the regardless of what other reviews have said it was brilliant,the rooms where very basic with 2beds to a room and a small kitchen,but clean,all the rooms have small veranders outside which have small table and chairs.The only thing which was slightly bad was the showers didnt have a shower curtain+the water does go everywhere,but apart from that it was wicked.
Its literally 5mins wlk from the town and right by banana beach.All the pools are free,go to 'Philippos pool'!I'm just gonna list stuff thats worth doing--- try rent out a quad or moped for the day and visit kos town, go to the foam party-every tuesday at 'CLUB STARLIGHT',it was fantastic!!! Go to Kardamena beach and try out the water sports...rings especially (15euros). Go to the stones and roses bar in the main square,just all the bars in general are wicked though. Amazon restaurant near the main supermarket-20euros each for a 3course meal and free bar all night 6-12pm!!tastiest ever!Hooties,full english breakfast 6euros(good for after hangovers)
To be honest theres not much bad stuff i could say about kardamena,apart from that it is for young ppl and i wouldnt advise a family to take their holiday there.I just had a wicked holiday and i would definately go there again. 10/10!!!
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Nikos 2 Apartments - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Manos Direct) Manos - June 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Paul , Jo and Sam (38, 35, 13)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We had actually booked to go to Crete but due to a problem with the hotel had to rearrange our booking and ended up in Kardamena. This resort could not have been any better for our needs, there is a beautiful promenade to walk along with some fantastic restaurants. Our firm favourite was "paradise" which was situated at the end of the resort furthest away from the "Bar Street" end. The staff at the paradise restaurant were so kind and helpful, always smiling and so friendly. The food was the most delicious we have ever tasted on our travels!
The Nicos 2 apts were a short stroll from the main town. The rooms, although basic were extremely clean and the maid came every day except one.
The apts are run by George and his family and they are lovely people. They also own a bar on "Bar Street" called "Coco Bar" which is a nice place to finish off your evening.
The weather was fantastic and all in all we had a great time!
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Nikos 2 Apartments - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Manos Direct) Manos - June 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Hayley- Birmingham (19,18,19,20)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We arrived in Kos late at night. Our room was tiny. Could just about squeeze past the bed to get to the other side of the apartment. Noticed that other rooms weren't as small, may have being that we were the corner room.
We stayed in the apartments right at the front of the complex, abit hard to sleep at night with the busy road outside, but soon got used to it.
The room we stayed in was very basic but very clean, so couldn't complain. Abit difficult when having a shower, there is no basin where you stand in for the shower- so the whole bathroom can get abit wet. Remember to take extra towels for the shower. You only get provided one towel for the week which is a hand towel.
The pool was very nice. No problem at all to get sunbeds. Pool very cold, however nice and refreshing with the heat. (it was 44 degrees one day!)
Food okay round by the pool. Chips, pizzas and burgers.
Walking into the town is about 10/15 minutes away. No pavements so be careful, especially at night. Most of the time we got a taxi back on the night- only 5 Euros. Lots of places to eat and drink. The PR people get on your nerves abit trying to get you in to their restaurants and bars.
The nearest supermarket is about 5 minutes away. Down one of the side roads on the opposite side to the apartments. The biggest supermarket is by the taxi rank. Keep going down the road towards the church and it is on your right. its called Louis.
The beach in kardamena not very big but okay . Alot of the time if you eat at restaurant by the beach for breakfast or lunch you get the sunbeds for free.
Best beach to go to is paradise/bubble beach. There is watersports there and not too expensive either. We took a taxi down to the beach, cost 20 euros between the 4 of us. The sunbeds are between 5 and 7 euros to rent (2 beds and an umbrella).
Best book trips in the square rather than the reps. Alot cheaper. We went on the Greek night in Zia. Nice food and surroundings. Just remember they will get you up to have a dance!
Would go to Kos again. I would recommend these apartments to people who want a relaxing holiday. They are great for people who enjoy night outs but also like to be a little bit out from the main town.
All in all a great holiday!
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Nikos 2 Apartments - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Mnos-September 22nd 05
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Tanja Lay (28,27,2yr)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We wanted a family holiday and was recomended Kardemena-Kos, We stayed at the Nikos 2 studios basic and clean.The pool was unheated and very slippery as it has no grips.The bar manager limited the children to how many ice creams they could buy and told off another family for making toast for their baby in their own apartment!
The pool area closes at 7pm leaving no where to socialise with the other holiday makers in the complex.During the day there are things to do like the boat trip to bubble beach which was very nice, book this in the centre you save money! we did all the water sports and hired a car wich was good.The restaurnts are very good a big selection to choose from they welcome children and are all very friendly.
As a family there was nothing to do at night there was only one bar which had a comedy act on funny first time round but then he uses the same material every other night he is on!
Although the night life was a let down we had a good time and that is thanks to meeting friends we have made for life from north and south of the country!
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Nikos 2 Apartments - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Sep 2004 - Club 18-30
Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : 19,19
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Having won a Club 18-30 holiday i couldnt say no. However i would definatly not ever book another club 18-30 holiday again.
The accommodation was basic and once we were inside we were provided with one loo roll (no others were provided through out the rest of our stay, one cup and a saucepan - the apartments were self catering! The door didnt look at all secure and the bathroom floor acted like the bottom of the shower!
When we arrived it was assumed we would be able to take part in the 'booze-cruises' and 'free-bar sessions', but we had to pay an extra 200 euros each for the week.
There were quite a few bars on the strip which was a 10 minute walk and a few clubs.
There were two main parts to the holiday - 1. Mine and my friends drinks were both spiked whilst we were in the bar... that is all we remember. i was rescued by my rep and taken back to appartment were i was extremly ill then collapsed, then my friend found her way home with one of the friends we had met. God knows what would have happened if no one would have found us!
2. we were taken to Kos Town on a coach for a night out which is around and hour or more away where we were encouraged again to drink alot. i was LEFT there and had to get a taxi back to appartments on my own... i was petrified and had no money left but managed to give the cabby the money when i met my friend at the appartment. The thing that suprises me is when i saw the reps the next day they didnt even know that i went missing... this situation should never happen.
if you are up for a very basic and quite sleezy holiday then book with 18-30 to greece... i would never again.
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Nikos 2 Apartments - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Manos Discounts) Manos June 2004
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : David Sandford - Birmingham (22,22,23,24)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The accommodation is fairly basic, but we just went for the drinking and the sun, so it suited us down to the ground. George who runs the family run place is very friendy and always tried to put a smile on you face no matter what state you are in, but was a little reluctunt when we said that are food was over cooked, anyway, needle in a hay stack.
Nightlife was good, little too much R'n'B for my liking, luvly and plentelfull women in the resort. Would recommend, but the beer in the nightclubs can be expensive. Otherwise couldn't fault it.
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Nikos 2 Apartments - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Manos Discounts) Manos June 2004
Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Carole and Marilyn 50 plus
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We booked this last minute so knew it would not be top of the range. We were lucky in that we had "an apartment" although this was really a studio with an extra bedroom, we did have two lovely sized balconies though. The pool was lovely especially as there was hardly anyone in the pool and always plenty of sunbeds. Although it was on the outskirts the short walk into Kardemena was no problem although it was a bit scary walking back in the evening. All the restaurants served excellent food and the prices were very reasonable. We were pestered a bit by the restaurant people but they did take no for an answer.
It was a fair walk to a nice beach so we did not bother but not a problem if you intended to go all day. A lot of the supermarkets were doing deals on alcohol and cigarettes/tobacco especially if you paid with english money so you can get some very good deals. We did not do any trips as we were only there for a week but there were some good trips on offer especially if you booked them locally.The dotto train was worth a ride on as it was only two euros for a forty minute ride.
All in all a relaxing holiday.
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Nissia Kamares - Kardamena
Operator and Date: First Choice - August 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by :
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Travelled to Kos (Kardamena) in August 2006. Was shocked at how small the airport was. We were on a night flight from Bristol so our transfer was late at night, we pulled up at our apartments to find no reception area and to be taken in via the back enterance, where a random bloke from behind the poolside bar took us to our room. this was no fault of first choice as our flight was brilliant and our transfer rep was very friendly and bubbley for late at night.
oh and that night, had a cockroach crawl over me whilst i was sleeping so that was it to me my holiday was over!
we could not fault the staff at the apartments very very nice staff couldnt do enough for you but we did find the place was full of groups of girls about 17 years old, given the location of the place we could understand why. pool area was quiet small but not ove crowded, very good pool side bar well priced too. very central apartments also very flat, close to the beach, shops, bars, plenty of variety of beach front restaurants (Fat Olive, one of the very best restaurants ate there 5 out of the 7 night!!!!!)
the resort seems to come alive at night but there are also quiet ends. "Bar Street" closes at 12 due to local residents so there is no noise/music allowed after 12 so you will find also of people go to the clubs where they are sound proof, so if you do travel as a family you wont be kept up all night.
plenty of excursions you can do, greek night was....eventful tehy take you up into a traditional greek village that has not been touch my tourism where you can shop in the lcoal crafts shops, and take in some of the most amazing and best views of teh sunset over the island and then sample and 8 course greek meal and live music and dancing.
there are also bar crawls, booze cruises, water park, day trips to kos town and Turkey, day down to "Bubble Beach" for one of the best beaches in kos and much more, prices with first choice are very good alot cheaper than Thomas Cook!
we did enjoy our time in kos weather was absolutly brilliant one day 44 in the sun and 36 in the shade!
personally i would not go back, the whole island was too basic for myself and i think my expectations were a little too high as my previous holdiay have been all inclusive in Gran Canaria and Morocco.
i would recommend this type of holiday to young and lively market, who are not really too fussy with the type of accommodation and room facilties etc.
would definately travel with First Choice again, highly recommended.
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Nissia Kamares - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Argos Holidays - July 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Louise - Surrey (22-25)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Stayed at the Nissia and Kamares apartments during the first week in July 2006 and was expecting a complete dump but was very pleasantly surprised. The apartments are basic but clean (we had air con in ours which was 25 euros for the week) and set around a lovely cobbled courtyard area. The pool area was large and clean with plenty of sun loungers. Bar serving food (just dont expect an a la carte menu!) and regular happy hour 6pm - 1am. The staff were really nice and friendly, especially Dimitri who runs it. Watch out for Stefanos the crazy caretaker though!
A word of warning to families: don't bring your children here in the peak season - you WILL be woken up in the early hours! The families in-situ when we were there did nothing but moan about the noise, but what do you expect from this kind of resort?
Kardemena in general is pretty much like these kind of Greek resorts - lots of groups of girls and boys drinking and sunbathing. The PR's on the main bar street are the most agressive I have ever encountered though and we avoided that bit like the plague after one trip down there! There are plenty of nice bars along the back streets and sea front where you don't get hassled and grabbed and lots of yummy restaurants - Alexanders is nice, but unless you're a fan of REALLY slow service don't go to Nemo's. Go to Mojo's on the seafront for a massive selection of cocktails for 3-5 euros each and a bit of a chilled drink before hitting the clubs.
Status is good - small but great atmosphere. Starlight was a bit young and cliched for us ('uk garage comin atcha!').
You must must must go to bubble beach. Its very beautiful and you can walk out to sea for about half a mile in waist height water. Great water sports as well and the boat ride cost us 10 euros per person.
All in all a good destination for a lads or girly holiday!
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Nissia Kamares - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Airtours - August 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Kim, Sutton, Surrey, age 21
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Came to Kos for two weeks, and will definitly not be coming back to Kardemena anytime soon. The resort is lively, but also small, so I wouldnt recommend visiting for more than a week, as we were bored of the same bars and clubs after the first week.
The Nissia Kamares pool area is nice, it is small, but not overcrowded. The sunbeds were lethal, and many people were falling from collapsed sunbeds everyday! It was forbidden to have any drinks or snacks that were not purchased from the pool bar, and they were really strict about it, the staff would tell you off! It was ridiculous because the prices for fizzy drinks and water were high at the pool bar!! They also had a really strange microphone that they called you order out on, so that the whole of Kardemena knew your food was ready, weird!!
The actual studio was small and cramped, and with no air conditioning in August, it was very uncomfortable. We were very disappointed with the studio, there was no where near enough room for three people. You recieved one roll of toilet paper and then you had to purchase your own, it was the most basic hotel i have ever stayed in. The hotel was very near a noisy 18-30 hotel (Sava), and so there was noise 24 hours.
We were on the ground floor, and experienced somebody trying to break into our apartment whilst we were in bed. We informed the hotel manager and he made a joke, claiming 'it wasnt me, i promise', which we thought was disgusting. We were scared in the apartment, and the hotel manager was no help what so ever. I wouldnt recommend the Nissia Kamares at all, I would tell people to steer well clear.
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Nissia Kamares - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - August 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Terry, Josie, Sarah, Neil, Heather and Lauren (59, 58, 36, 35, 8, 6)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just come back from two weeks at the Nissia and Kamares Apartments. The apartments are about 5 mins from the main square and 5 mins from the beach. The apartments were clean and tidy but basic. I had forgotten quite how basic Greece is.
Our rep was good but I would recommend that you don't book trips with the holiday companies. The price is a rip off. You can book exactly the same trips at one of the several travel agents in the main square. We booked two trips through them and they were equally as good as the holiday companies trips.
The pool was a good size but I think they had an issue with keeping it clean. My daughter caught conjunctivitus and several other people were complaining of ear infections and tonsilitis.
Most of the local restaurants were good. Would recomend Avli, Alexanders and Tonys.
Kardamena is a lovely place, but better suited to young people as it is filled with many lively bars and clubs. Although saying that, we never had any problems with noise at night. Be aware, the apartments are next to the local church and they do ring the bells very early some mornings.
All in all we had a really good holiday and would probably go back. Sarah (36)
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Nissia Kamares - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by :
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Fantastic Holiday, Fantastic Resort, Fantastic Appartments if you want to go and have fun in the evenings and just relax during the day you should go. make sure you go to the foam party on a saturday night it is Fantastic (at starlight) Status is also good but no foam party. very cheap and loads to do the hotel is really nice and the people are very friendly aswell.
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Nissia Kamares - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays summer 2004
Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : Suzanne Fraser 23
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
These apartments were fantastic, Very clean with regular maid service. We had celing fan above the beds which served its purpose, however the resort had a powercut so left without power for a whole night...very hot. Lovely apartment would recommend.
The resort has some nice bars along the seafront and harbour. We recommend the Kalypso cocktail bar, drunk there most nights. Family run extremely friendly..especially IIias who goes out his way to make you feel welcome...allowed us to stay in after hours on our last nite while waitng on our late bus transfere...even offered to drive us into the airport.
The trip to the volcano is a must..its amazing.
Overall great holiday, and although i always say i will never go to te same place twice..im considering going here again.
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Nissia Kamares - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours july 2004
Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : cardiff crew 20,22,24,
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
the nissia kamares appartments were well presented,clean and in a good location{about 5 mins from the main strip}the pool is a good size and the pool bar had a good selection of snacks and drinks to get you through the day.the only problem was the heat.we had three appartments between us and only had air conditioning in one room{which cost about 40 euros for two weeks}and would only work when the key card was in the slot so as soon as you left it would go off and it would be boiling when you got back.
the complex was quite noisy during the night with various groups of girls and boys comming home at all hours drunk.did pose a problem for the young familys but the management did there best even evicting several people.
kardamena was a busy resort with a great breeze and with plenty of nice resturants and a good selection of bars and clubs for all tastes.
several day trips are available but shop around.would recomend the water park but dont bother with the trip to bubble beach and turkey we were divided on.if you enjoy non stop hagling over every item you touch you will love it!the best buy were the fags in turkey about £10 for 200
would recomend kos to anyone and will be going back for sure.
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Libra - July 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Michael Fray & Malcolm Clevett - Littlehampton (46 &47)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
This is the second time I've been to the Norida Beach. On both occasions I've had a brilliant time. Since the first visit with my Wife the Hotel complex has expanded considerably - with the addition of a second pool and additional areas of accomodation. I would rate the hotel at 4*. We paid £380 for 1 week.
On arrival at midday our room wasn't ready therefore had to wait an hour whilst it was prepared. However, this wasn't a problem as we went straight into lunch and had a few free bevvies! The room turned out to be of the usual std, basic but very clean and no complaints from me. We had the added bonus of facing West therefore capturing the sun before it disappeared behind the mountains. The free mini bar was stocked every other day and kept the beers real cool! At Norida, there's the main building with reception, shops, bars, games/TV rooms and accomodation, this was where we were located. However, you could be located outside the main complex which could be a walk up a steep hill - would suggest not for elderly or those with walking problems (unless you can specifically book main building accomodation).
The food was excellent with good choice but was repetative. You may have to wait for a seat in the restuarant depending on the time you eat. We waited max 3/4 mins, you wait less or walk straight in if you eat inside. I found inside very hot but we were in the middle of a heat wave! Fresh rolls and hotdogs are always available for snacks, along with ice creams for the kids. The Chinese made a nice change and was very good.
The adult bar and main bar is open until Midnight, the drinks were OK for me. Lowenbrow beer (dunno how u spell it!!)and local spirits. If your not going out after Midnight suggest you get 4/5 lined up!! The Beach bar (literally right on the beach) closes at 5.30 but servers lovely free cocktails and hotdogs (& of course any other drink you fancy). There's also a poolside bar at the new pool serving the usual drinks coffees and food. One nice bonus is the the drinks are served in glasses and always full!!
All the staff were met were helpfull and very friendly. Thanks to Chico, Marco, Franko and all the rest of the crew... We played football everyday at 5, well organised (usually). Last day was the brits against the rest of Europe (made of of a couple of Germans). Stuffed them!!
Evening entertainment was good, there's a theatre which puts on a show everynight, early stuff for the kids, Bingo later and then some sort of late show. There's a disco up the hill with a food place and additional bar. Latest I goot in from there was 7.30am so you can get a late beer/food/dance (have to pay for drinks tho 4Euros each).
Kardemena itself was buzzin, went in three times and there's hundreds of bars. We walked the main Bar Street areas which are suitable for teens and twenties, we went for the experience!! All the music stops at Midnight which is a bit disapointing. However, the clubs all kick into gear and are open late.
Airport literally 20 mins from Hotel so taxis/transfers cheap.
That's about it, I'd defo go again.. Sorry about all the mistakes, can't be bothered to read it again!!
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Fleetway travel June 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : bryan martin and partner-rotherham (46,47)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
i have just arrived back from an excellent week at the norida beach.myself and my partner just wanted to get away and chill for a week and forget all the other moaners who have wrote in this more than fitted the bill.the hotel is not 5 star but is a credit to the army of cleaners and staff that work there,it is spotless.the food is excellent and a great variety,stone baked pizzas,salads,meat,fish and excellent cakes etc.there is even an excellent chinese which cooks fresh dishes in fronnt of the non-paying public,we ate there twice and the food was exceptional.
overall the value for money is first class.we paid a/i just over £365 for a week which is peanuts!!.The weather was extremely hot (apparently was the hottest temps for this time of the year since 1982,42c in the shade but apart from the last day we had a lovely breeze which prevented the sweats).rooms are basic but clean!! and the added bonus of a fridge stocked with 5 botles of pop,2 lagers and bottled water.fridge is stocked up every 2 days.Kardemena is a 10mins away by local bus 1euro 40cents or free hotel bus.well worth a visit as there are plenty of restaurants and bars
beware!! if you only like mixing with english people and or super-critical cancel now, for all others i`m sure you have nothing to worry about as i`m confident you will have a great holiday.we did!!
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: On The Beach - June 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Audrey
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just got back from Norida Beach Hotel, and despite some very negative reviews, we had no major problems at all.
Our room was spotless, the food choice was very well though out and fresh, the staff (in all areas) work themselves to the bone and despite that, are courteous at all times. If you have children then I would highly recommend this, as the entertainment is centered around them, even the shyest of children enjoyed themselves. Just a few tips, let your bathwater out slowly to prevent overflow from the drains, if you require a quiet drink then go to the adult bar, and wear loads of suntan cream as it is very hot there. Kardamena was fantastic, hire a quad bike, it coast us 25 Euro's for the whole day so you can have one each, and explore the island. The ringos (water sports) are so much fun, but wear goggles.
All in all we had a fantastic time and would highly recommend it to all age groups. It is however classed as a 5*, but I would suggest that 4* rating is more appropriate. Have a great time!!
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - May 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Lisa Pollett - Stoke-on-Trent (25,25,24,22.
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hotel is a little isolated 1shop in hotel and 1shop across the road.There is a nightclub and sports bar across the road also up a slight incline.The hotel has its own beach and watersports galore.fully stocked beach bar included in all inclusive.Chinese restaurant is fantastic we ate there 3 of the 7nights.Entertainment is not that good.Good entertainment for kids.The adults bar is not as hectic as the main bar but you cant always get a seat.A guy name chico is very friendly and trys to get people involved in all activities.The beer seemed to be watered down on a few occasions but the cocktails and long drinks were fine.
The food was very repetitive but wasnt a major problem only 1 or 2 dishes were changed each night.the deserts were fantastic.The resort of kardemena was miles away you couldnt walk it,about 10min in a taxi and costs 8euros one way.Kardemena wasnt that liveley compared to when ive been malia,laganas,kavos the same time of year.the main club was status it was fab fantastic music funky house,dance,r&b and garage,Drinks very expensive though but free to get in.The Complex is huge and you can be a trek away from the main building and when other reports mention cardiac hill they are right but it is only one part of the complex its not all hilly.There is also the smell of diesel but not bad enough to effect your holiday like other people on this site have said.The pool water is salt water which doesnt taste too good and stings your eyes.If you request rooms close to lower pool as there is 3 around the complex you cant go wrong.the room we had was open plan on 2floors had 2bathrooms and the most powerful shower i have ever had.The tv chanells were mainly german just bbc news was the only english chanel.there were also alot of german guests but didnt effect our holiday.
Overall a great holiday 10out of 10 for service,standard and rooms.8out of 10 for alcohol.5out of 10 for choice of food but 10out of 10for quality of food.i would return in future if got a good deal.
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Paul & Jan Jones
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The Hotel in general is a good one, not five star though, I would estimate a good 3 star, lower four, the food is good but the same every day, no change. There is an excellent chinese restaurant included in your all inclusive and you need to book this one day in advance, this has waiter service which is very good indeed, highly recommended, once you eat here you won't want to eat in the main restaurant. The staff in general are good but there is no conversation, the international reps are brilliant, but we didn't see one english rep.
The internation reps are the entertainment, they form the animation team. If you have children then this is the holiday for you as 99% of the entertainment is based around the children, there is an adult only bar which is great, table service and you only get the advertised branded goods IF YOU ASK FOR THEM, so don't forget as for a Gordon's Gin or you will get the local brand.
The rooms are very clean and are cleaned daily, your mini bar is re stocked every other day with 2 x Stella and 2 x Pepsi and 3 other soft drinks. The shop inside the hotel is extremely expensive, eg for sun tan lotion, the supermarket in Kardemena charges 7.95 Euros and for the same brand in the hotel is 15.90 Euros, so I would not recommend you buy anything in the shop, There is a free bus from the hotel into Kardemena but you need to get a ticket, you must get it early or you won't get on the bus and a taxi will cost you between 8 and 10 Euros.
To summarise, if you expecting 5 star you will be disappointed the hotel is over run by children and the only solice is the adult bar, the food is not too bad but the same every day, the chinese restaurant is your best bet. Enjoy!
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Freedomdirect - oct 2006
Opinion submitted in December 2006 by : Mike Risebury - Yorks ( 42,42,9,6 )
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
hotel situated 3 miles outside kardamena & operates a free courtesy coach which is exellent. the hotel complex is huge so there is much demand for this service.
being in a family group we were placed in an annex up the notorious "cardiac hill".
in truth unless you are elderley or disabled you will have no problems & it will help shed the pounds. rooms are basic but clean & maid service is daily. pools are plentyful , all having snack bars. beach is very nice with free sunbeds & parasols. we found food to be plentyful & varied. chinese restaurant fantastic but beware you need to book 24hrs in advance & we managed it once in 7 days.beach taverna also very good. now the downside..........
queue's at bars , queue's at restaurants ,very poor entertainment & the worst thing possible TOO MANY BRITS......
let me explain. the hotel must allow one sx groups , therefore drunken yobs singing & swearing on the beach didnt realy add to the ambience & not good for young kids.we are not snobs & i'm fiercely patriotic & love being british. but i dont agree with parents who adopt the drink til you drop attitude & leave the kids to entertain themselves. this hotel abounded with them.
all in all a decent hotel in a nice setting , karamena is lovely. no problems with flights , transfers etc,unfotunately due to too many brits won't be back in a hurry.................
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Imperial Oct 06
Opinion submitted in November 2006 by : Bernie 40, 30, 13, 10
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: No rating
My/Our Holiday Review:
I have just returned from the Norida Beach and I have to say if I had taken any notice of some of the reviews I would not have gone!
That would have been a pity because we had a great holiday.
We had a great room, the weather was good and the food in the restaurant was brilliant. The entertainment was OK, we mayde the best of it, I wasn't expected Tom Jones every night. It's a holiday, enjoy what it is, you can have a good time if you want. Try!
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Imperial Travel Oct 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Sue C (46, 72, 14,10)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just returned from the Norida Beach. I have to say that some of the reviews had put me off before I went. However, we had a great time. The food was fabulous with something for everyone and the service in the restaurants and bars is cheerful and polite. The kids had a wonderful time and we all made many friends. We will definitely be going back next year.
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Fleetway Travel - October 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Tracey - Hampshire (34,43)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel seemed very good on arrival. However the next morning we had no water and the toilet didnt flush. We complained to the rep who advised us that we had to run the water for at least 30 mins and up to 2 hours. We eventually did have water, but it came out as brown sludge for the first half hour. Our toilet was temperamental for the duration of our holiday and completely packed up on the second to last day. We had a constant smell of sewerage in our bathroom and mouldy tiles and dirty towels were provided on a daily basis!
The reception and bar area was fly infested and smelt of diesel fumes, sewerage and dirty dishcloths. The glasses were unclean from the bar area. The drinks provided were half measures and top ups were refused.
The restaurant had very rude staff serving us at the beginning of our holiday but as our faces became known, we got served more politely.The reception staff were also rude and unhelpful. The food was the same every single meal. Times of restaurant opening for all meals constantly changed without prior notice to guests, which resulted in staff refusing to provide any food for breakfast on one occasion.
We had rainfall during the night and on the way to breakfast, going down cardiac hill we slipped over on the wet tiles and there was a mudslide down the road outside the hotel foyer, which took over 2 days to clear.
The so called entertainment was the same man that barked like a dog and poked everyone with cocktail sticks every night. You can only handle this if you take advantage of the alcohol provided.
Kardamena town was apparently a 45 minute walk, but this was not the case..we would have to sprint to get there in that amount of time.
On a more positive note, we managed to hire a scooter for the week at the resort for a very reasonable rate, even though the rep tried to talk us out of hiring out a scooter, saying that we would only get 3rd party insurance, this is not the case you can get fully comp for a small fee of 3e per day.
We highly recommend getting a scooter and spending all your time out of the resort.
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays October 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Gill - Scotland 27,28
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We just arrived back yesterday Friday the 13th 2006, from Greece, after staying for 1 week all inclusive at the hotel.
We got 5 good days out of 7, as parts of Greece is having flooding the now and we saw the thunder, lightning and the rain. It was good to watch but it is a bit more drastic over there than here!.
We were in room 205, 2nd floor at the back of the hotel, we had no faults with the room, but the hotel does not supply a iron in tghe room, and you don't get hot water after 7pm.
We also smelled the diesel that everyone has mentioned on this site. It was ok I would not really complain about this, but with me having asthma I did take my medication a bit more than what I would have done back home.
The rooms were cleaned every day, as well as the beds being made, and the mini fridge is filled every 2 days.
We thought the food at the Hotel was very good great potatoe salad and pizza, but the Chinese Restaurant has only 15 tables for a hotel with over 400 rooms.
It took me 2 attempts at booking the Chinese, which has to be done in the morning before 7.30am at Reception. But be aware the first time I was told come back at 7.30am after being at Reception at 7.00am, and when I did get there at 7.30am they told me it was fully booked. There was a few unhappy people at the Reception Desk that morning.
We also had to reserve our room as we were getting picked up late on at night,
and it meant we would have over 12 hours to wait from getting out the room at 10am and being picked up. I was taking no chances so I asked about this on the 3rd day of the holiday.
Reception told me come back tommorow every morning until I was on the last day of my Holiday, which I got annoyed at because all I wanted was a straight answer could we keep the room or not. When you are on the last day of your holiday they then tell you for definate on this day, if you can get a room and if there is 1 available.
We got moved to room 41 at the bottom end of the hotel beside the Shop. I am sure the 4 rooms in that corridor are used for people in our situation. The room was not as nice as the one we had upstairs plenty of ants and bugs in it. If it was a room to be slept in I would ask the Hotel to be moved.
The entertainment was good, if you have got children the entertainment is mostly based for them.
The Animation Staff are really good and we took part in a few things that they did during the day.
We would go back to this Hotel but it is more a family one than a couple one.
All though we were all inclusive we went out in the town 2 nights just for a change.
The Hotel supply a free bus to the town and getting a taxi back only costs 8 euros.
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Appollo Travel September 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Maureen Parker - Kent 50
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Having had a great flight and transfer, we were in happy holiday mode, quite unprepared for the events of the next few hours. We were allocated room 82.It was situated to the right of the hotel in what appeared to be a dungeon type courtyard.
The first thing that was apparent was the smell of diesel. The door looked damaged, but in we went. It was not a pretty sight, beds built into concrete blocks, tarnished and water stained bathroom, mould growing on the tiles. hand painted tatty furniture. Window overlooking brick wall, not a pleasant sight and definately not what I had seen on the internet site where I booked. We returned to reception and said we would not accept the room, we was told in no uncertain terms that the hotel was full and no other room ws available. The reception staff were arrogant and unhelpful. This went on for a few hours.
We then managed to see the hotel manager, who earlier we were told had the day off. He offered us another dismal unacceptable room. He then took us to a new building of family rooms which was lovely but he charged us another 300 euro. Which we paid begrudgingly. I thought this was the type of accommadtion I had paid for already.
However the draw back with this lovely room was the night visits from the cockroaches. The restaurant was very busy and the food was poor and repetitive.They were working sixteen hour days and were always in a rush to get you in and out.
The good thing about the holiday was the weather and visits to Kos and Kardamena, the people their were friendly and the service was excellent. My only regret is I never visited your website before I booked
here. Because I definately would not recommend this hotel to anyone. I would rate it like a 2* badly run b& b.
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: First Choice- Sept 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Emma 26,31
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just got back from our a week at this hotel and we were so sad that we had to leave! This holiday far exceeded our expectations! We hardly spent any money because we just didnt need to, it was everythimg you would need. I would find it really hard to find fault with this hotel, You will love it!
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: July 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Connor's gang 32, 34, 35, 16
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
this has got to be the biggest wind up being called 5 star in history, 3 star at the most, Maxi and Tornado and the sxy Susie great, food virtually the same every meal, poor... service at the bar was Ok providing there was only a handful of people waiting, day entertainment was ok for the first few days then repetative, evening entertainment was rubbish literally, swimming pools too deep for kids and dangerous around the outside, the slide area is up a steep hill and we were glad our room was in the main block, although the diesal fumes at times were overpowering,
to many cats around the site with usual animal lovers feeding them to encourage them to go into the hotel reception area... We booked through an agency in Berkshire, useless, we had no rep, no pick up's, good job we are big boys and could fend for ourselves, a family could be caught out... Not recommended
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: July 06
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : North/Gomma
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Save your time and money, not recommended !!! apart from nice pizza's, and a bit of daytime fun.. choose another destination, unless you like hills, slippery swimming pool area's boring evening entertainment and diesel fumes don't come here..... 5 star your having a laugh
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
june 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Shane 48 Susan 42 Jo 31 Chloe-bo 3
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
My brief assumption - very good entertainment crew albeit the evening's got boring with virtually the same routine, luckily the world cup was on and i was able to watch relevent games, our room was in a very good position not up the hill(thsnk god).... the food was ok, pizza's good the rest i managed for a week, bar service was also good with many smiley faces.... the trip from the airport was by taxi and at 17 euro's is better than waiting for the coach.... the swimming pool is an accident waiting to happen, very dangerous, we witnessed people time and time again slipping over and one northern lady that had arrived an hour earlier break her wrist slipping on the wet tiles, it is also far to deep for children....the waterslide area has no sunbeds and is up cardiac hill as it is known, and the beach is shingly,
a very windy resort, the hotel/club with average facilities is 5 star no way, i have travelled a lot this would be a 3 star in most other countries.. the holiday was a nice break I booked through a company in Reading called IMPERIAL TRAVEL do yourself a favour avoid them like the plague, that is for personal reasons,
would I go back NO. Spain, Bulgaria, Cyprus put this place in the shade
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: global late deals chester, june 10th 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : diane day 37- chester 64,10.
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
this hotel complex was beautiful, airy and spotless. i have travelled for over 20 years and am used to the caribbean and i can honestly say this holiday was one of the best i have ever been to for lots of reasons. the food was lovely, very fresh and a great choice, the pools were lovely, it had 3, and 5 bars, but the entertainment team especially tornedo, what a star, so funny. they certainly make the holiday, very proffessional and very funny. people of all ages enjoyed it.
i certainly recommend this hotel its a great 5 star, and i would definately go back no hesitation atall.
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Trust accommodation - 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : David smith- emsworth (9,39,39)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
I found the hotel staff and manager very rude plus so unhelpful,for the first two day of our holiday my family and i was sent to another hotel due to being over booked. the hotel where we was sent was worse than a smelly youth hostal this was ment to be 5 star accommatation!!!!!!!!
Then when we did arrive at the Mitsis hotels Norida beach,
the bath water looked like dark coffee plus the swimming pools were so unclean. Our room the doors were unsafe they didnt lock at all.
the whole hotel i felt was so unsafe so many children on holiday had accidents. i didnt let my nine year old out of sight ever. if i would advise anyone about this hotel it would be, find another place as this was the most unpleasent holiday i have ever had more to the point it was not a holiday it was a nightmare i woke up when i got home
MITSIS HOTELS - NORIDA BEACH
SUMMER PALACE
FAMILY VILLAGE
Look out for these when booking a holiday in kos you will surely have a very stressful holiday if not a very unpleasent experance.
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Archers Direct - September 2005
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Scott Jones - Essex (32,34,3)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just got back from Norida Beach and I thought that I had better add my opinion of the hotel as I have been reading other peoples for the last year.
I can honestly say that we had a marvelous holiday and am finding it difficult to find criticism!
however i do feel that something should be done about the pool as it caused me and the wife some heart stopping moments when the little one forgets all the warnings and starts running,one girl broke her arm there and i did notice 2 or 3 adults on crutches but i dont know if that was the pool tiles or the free "ouzo",but to be honest if your kids are carefull than you shouldnt let that alone put you off.
We did smell diesel up one end of the hotel occationaly but we were on the 1st floor at the other end(114)so i shouldn't comment.
As for the notorius cardiac hill again we were in the main building so can't comment although I Would say that if you are elderly it would be worth arranging to stay at the main hotel but as for everyone else it would do you good to walk off the excellent food.(its not nowhere near as bad as what people said though).
The food truly was fantastic!and any reviews that say"The only good food was the Pizza,Chips and pancakes"well there diets at home can't consist of much else anyway!We found it varied,fresh and tasty and not one of us had a iffy belly throughout(which is unusual for me).
We did eat out in Kardamena once just for a change of surrondings and ended up having a meze which was out of this world and only e19 for the 2 of us,there was so much of it we had to turn away our sweets and coffee(Fat Olives Restraunt,on the beach front by the wooden bridge.)
Bubble beach is a must we did it twice,the boat from kardemena is very nice for ?10 for all of us as the little one went for free,the beach was nice sand and it didn't slope away to sharply,but beware it seemed to us that it was hotter there with no breeze and you could burn very easy....
we also went into kos town by coach for again e10,we tried the ramiera hotel just outside of kos town which you can use AI but we found the food not nowhere near Norida standards and the hotel was average at best.Any excursions dont be scared of booking in kardemena as they are so much cheaper than through your rep.
the entertainment was different everynight of our two week stay although it starts off with the mini disco and then bingo which was good fun.I even got on stage and won Mr Norida for England,something i would not have normaly done but for the free flowing lowenbrau on tap.
Anyway I hope this has been of help but we always go on our hols with the atitude of "holidays are what you make'em".But hopefully you have as good a time as we did(we'll be back...)
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Sunstar- August 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : One Adult-37, One Child-5
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Arrived early hour's,the room was ready and very clean. We then went for a walk to explore, my son was very excited! First impression's of the restaurant at breakfast was good, plenty for a fussy 5 year old to choose from. The food in general was of a high standard. Stone baked pizza's, pancake's and grilled meat's were prepared in front of you. All the pool's were clean, main one being salt water. Kid's club was also very good. Night time entertainment ok. International branded drink's were served when asked for by name. Mini bar stocked every other day. Free use of beach towel's after paying 10E deposit.
Beach was long and quite deep, plenty of sunbed's. Snack's were resricted to sandwich's and hotdog's. Try not to book trip's from the rep's or hotel, less than half the price in town. Bodrum trip is good value as is Nissyros Volcano. We hired a scooter for 14E a day to see the island from the rental shop outside the Hotel, very safe, take you time, road's were almost empty. There is a go-kart track 5 minute,s walk away 15E for 15 minute's. Kardemena by day is fine but at night a little rowdy for little one's.
All in all a great holiday, my son has asked that we go back sometime, so who know's??
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays - August 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Sue Taylor - Blackburn (44, 40, 38, 36, 8, 8)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just arrived back from 2 weeks in Norida Beach Hotel. The Hotel was excellent, the rooms were clean, there were 2 adults and 1 child so the 3rd bed did make it feel a bit cramped, but it didn't spoil the holiday.The food again was excellent, fresh pizza's every nite, pasta dishes, local dishes, salads, chips, rice, and meat which was cooked as you watched them, the sweets were just as good, with the usual melon, ice cream, cakes, doughnuts, local cakes which were lovely. The weather never dropped below 94 degrees, there was a strong wind most days so it didn't feel as hot but you still got burn't.The beach made a change from the pool, the sunbeds went early, we were putting our towels out roughly at 7.30am!! The mini fridge which was filled every other day, you got 2 beers 2 cokes 2 lemons and a bottle of water.The Hotel was a bit out of the way, there was a free bus into Kardamena, or you could get the local bus for 1 euro each. Kardamena is worth a look for a change of scenery, the restaurants serve excellent food. If you take a taxi home it cost us 7 euro's.
All in all we had a FAB time.
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays - August 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : John, Alison, Adam (48,46,8)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The food was excellent especially the pizzas and pancakes, which were freshly made. The choice was immense, from cold to hot, even the pickiest eaters must have found something to enjoy.
The three pools were OK, but if you're visiting during high season remember your alarm clock as you will need to be up early to book decent sunbeds by the two main pools at the hotel - also a significant number of sunbeds needed repair or replacement. The main pool tiled surround is lethal when wet and the hotel really should do something about it before there are serious injuries. There are "slippery surface" signs but it is much worse than that; you really have to walk slowly to avoid slipping. There are no sunbeds at the pool with the water slides, only chairs, but the slides are great fun for the children of all sizes, and it isn't slippery. Snacks at the "slide" pool are limited to hot dogs. The best place for drinks is at the main bar (with Boris serving if possible and he smiles more if you say thankyou!). Quality of all drinks is fine.
This years entertainment is a bit mixed. Daytime has the usual suspects (water polo, beach volleyball, darts, french bowls, etc); they aren't too pushy about participation. The evening entertainment is badly hampered because the seating area is angled around the inner edge of the hotel building so visibility anywhere other than the front is poor to non-existant. If you want a good view you have to be eating before 7 pm. The evening ents themselves were also the usual mix of Kids Disco, then bingo, then a "show" such as Mr + Mrs Norida, Karaoke, Perfect Couple. The "cabaret" stuff was the entertainers (and sometimes guests) doing some mimed dance, show numbers and "set piece" jokes; occasionally very good but generally rather weak; none of the ents staff are really dancers or singers and this showed despite enthusiasm. The "bought in" Greek Dance act covered the animation teams night off and were typical of the type. If you can cope with the weaker aspects its worth a second visit especially for the pizza and pancakes!
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Sunstar Leisure July 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Yvette & Mark Allsop (41 and 44)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Our holiday got off to a fantastic start travelling with Excel airline and everything being on time. We arrived at Kos airport and again everything ran smoothly. On arriving at the hotel we had to wait about an hour to check into our rooms because they were still being cleaned, however this was not a problem as the hotel reception had the most comfortable settees ever and the bar was open so we were able to get a nice cool glass of lager which at the time was very welcoming and refreshing.
The good points about this hotel are as follows;
1.6 BARS - 1 being by the children only pool. The 2nd being an Adults bar only - The third being next to the entertainment area - the 4th being next to the Adults only swimming pool - the 5th being at the Greek Restuarant which is near to the beach and the 6th bar being actually on the beach.
2. The majority of these bars serve some kind of snacks all day (hot dogs - Danish Pastries - ham and cheese rolls (the bread is also very nice).
3. The main restaurant is 2nd to none with ALL food being as fresh as fresh as can be. The Pizzas are out of this world and the salad takes alot of beating.
4. The booze is local or International (Teachers Whisky/Grants Whisky - Gordons Gin - Finland Voda and many more - lowenbrow (sorry cant remember out to spell it) is served from the tap and is also stocked in bottles in your mini bar which is restocked every two days.
5. The All Inclusive chinese restaurant is very good - though if you are a big eater it is probably best to mix and match your meals (eg Chicken Chow Mein and Sweet and Sour Chicken along with egg fried rice). The starters are also very nice although our preference was the spring rolls.
5. The maids clean the room daily and are very friendly.
6. One of the earlier comments mentioned a smell of diesal and this is very true, however this did not by any means ruin our holiday.
7. The building was spotless and the restaurant was the cleanest I have ever come across.
I personally would not recommend a trip to Kos Town centre, lots of beggars and felt quite unsafe at times. Car hire is cheap and I would highly recommend a sand buggy (40 euros per day) and boy did we get our monies worth out of this - we actually did the whole island in a day!
The beach was lovely and whilst some of you may prefer sand we actually found the shingle beach alot better. There are plenty of sun loungers on the beach although not so many around the pools.
There was 15 people in total in our party (Adults and children the youngest being 9 years of age). We all had a lovely time and we would certainly have no hesitation in returning to this destination and to this hotel.
I can sometimes be fussy on what I eat, drink etc but on this holiday I had no reason to complain about anything.
If you are reading this now I would say go for it and make your own conclusions of this hotel - this is exactly what we did and we were not dissapointed.
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Sunstar July 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Tracy Williams -Stevenage 37,40,20,17,16,13,5
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Had a briilliant week at Norida Beach hotel.!!!Just didnt want to come home.The food is fantastic and i mean it truly was. There was so much choice and alot of the meals are cooked in front of you.The hotel is truly lovely.We had 3 rooms one was a bungalow up a steep hill but well worth it when you got there.!! The view was amazing.A really huge room with a mini bar.This was refilled with soft drinks andlager every 2 days.The staff were really kind and helpfull.2 members of our party had accidents ,this i add was all their own fault,one was when my daughter was swimming near the rocks and cut her leg badly.The staff at reception were very helpfull and called the doctor who was also nice and helpfull.
The beach is shingle but there are loads of sun loungers around so just relax. The beach has free pedalos for hotel users and ringos that you pay for.
Kardemena isnt a fantastic place to go but ok for half a day shopping or go to kos town on the bus which leaves outside the hotel.
Entertainment is a laugh although some of it is a bit 'adult humour'.
There is a quiet adults only pool for those who dont want to join in with the water polo etc.
All in all an excellent hotel and we are booking again for next year!! And for those of you worried about booking with cheap sunstar,dont panic they are reliable and we have had 2 holidays of them and its all fine and save money on the thomas cook,cosmos prices.We had our own mini bus to pick us up from the airport for us ,the best transfer we have ever had ,only taking us to the hotel,arrived before the crowds!!
So book and go you will love it!!!!
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: Sun Star Leisure - June 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Ron Smith - Grimsby (57,53)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Eventually arrived after 2 false starts with a faulty aircraft.It was a Jumbo Jet hired from Atlanta Airways Europe.
Given room 70. There was a smell of diesel on the way to the room. Room was average with mouldy grouting in the bathroom. Opened the balcony doors and no view just a brick wall!
Was offered other rooms but one was near the smell of sewarage, the other was up cardiac hill or kamakazie hill as it is known. An horendous walk up the steep hill, so we staayed were we were allocated. It was only 20 paces from the cocktail bar so it had it's good points.
Hotel reception is very spacious and has plenty of sofas to chill out on.
The hotel and food is a typical 3 star. Does not really cater for the Brits.Lots of Germans around. Bacon only served on Thursdays, no mushrooms or fried bread.Chips and scallops a plenty though and do not miss the grilled liver we had that 5 days out of the 14 we were there.
The Pizza's are very good and fresh. Pasta is also OK. They do have some nice bread and pancakes.
The staff are brilliant and very helpful.
The new saltwater adult only pool opened while we was there. However some people cannot understand ADULTS ONLY and still brought the kids in. That was until the management moved them on, but they came back when they were not looking.
The adult only cocktail bar is very good. waitresses are keen to make sure everybody has a drink at all times. The hotel claims it serves international branded spirits. Only if you ask and then they run out. They do not have Martini, Port or Advocat etc. they ran out of Irish Cream and Peach schnapps 3 days before the end of our stay and did not replace them.
The village is too far to walk but buses are free or only 1 euro.
Kos Town is well worth a visit only 5 euros if booked in town, double from your rep.
A trip to Turkey is 20 euros in town or 40 from your rep. Be aware.
A nice holiday which was helped by the group of 10 people we met as fellow travellers and left as friends.
Not at all bad but do not think you are going to a 5 star hotel.
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook may 2005
Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : grace Mike Lisa (11,8,38
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
I've been reading all the bad reports and I disagree! just spend youre time out of the hotel!
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Hotel Norida Beach - Kardamena
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - May 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Alan Burke - Blackpool (42,38,10,6)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
This Hotel is fantastic. The food is the best I have ever came across in an all inclusive resort.My 6 year old son just adored the panckes- with the freshly cooked pizza and pasta a firm favourite with all the family.Absolutely no complaints at all about the food. Yes it does get a bit repetive over 2 weeks but it is repetively good !! Always a great range of choice at every meal.
The staff are very friendly and curteous. My wife and myself also loved sitting in the cocktail bar at nights with waiters bringing us a regular suppply of alchohol.The waiters give a great service but they are even better if you give them a small tip.
We were out on a pedalo a few times and we never had a problem getting one when we wanted.Ther beach is a bit shingly but it is very relaxing sitting on a sunbed and rememeber it is on the doorstep of the hotel.
We stayed in one of the bungalows (Rm 337) near the top of the waterslides. The room was very clean and spacious with an excellent sea view from a spacious balcony. The kids ( and myself !) loved the waterslides.The walk up the hill to the bungalows is pretty steep and will be a problem for anybody with walking difficulties - it is