Arillas Forum
Welcome to Arillas => Accommodation reviews => Package Holidays => Topic started by: jo-jo on May 23, 2009, 05:08:01 PM
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Am going to Kouloudis Village Apt in July. Any info from anyone? Look nice,have never been before. Should I request a certain area? Quite like sea views but not sure studios have sea views. Would appreciate any feedback. Thanks!! First time ever sent anything on net! Love the weather cam!!! Cheers! Joanna (jo-jo)
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Hi jo-jo - we've just come back from two weeks at Kaloudis! You'll love it there - the whole place is absolutely spotless and Billy and his family work very hard. We had a studio with twin beds at the back of the complex so couldn't exactly see the sea BUT it's such a short walk down the drive it doesn't matter. First impression of the sea when walking down the driveway is "paradise".
Still trying to sort out all my holiday washing (groan!) but will post pics as soon as I get chance
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Janis I can't believe you're back already!! Feels like you only went yesterday. Was it really 2 weeks?
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Great isn't it Janis. We will be there in 2 weeks and a bit.
riggers.
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Hi Sandy and Riggers - yes, we're back (boo, hoo!) I did actually weep a little as the coach left the village and now we're back and I'm on the forum instead of sorting out the holiday clothes....!!
Absolutely fantastic time - will post more later - but just one thing to watch out for - suitcase weight at Corfu airport! Our two cases were just under 20 kg each coming out, we did not put anything extra in for our return, but actually left things like shampoo, toiletry bottles, etc., and we were charged 22 euros excess baggage!
The same happened to Martin as well!
Take care all!
Janis x
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I'm with Sandy there.....I can't believe it's been two weeks!!
Looking forward to reading all about it.
Eileenxx
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Welcome back to Blighty Janis. Clearly Arillas has worked its magic. Thanks for sharing it all with us - it keeps us sane. (Er me? well there's always an exception to prove a rule....)
So looking forward to hearing about your adventures.
All the best
Phil
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hi
Thanks everyone, i am so excited! It sounds lovely. I cant wait to see the sea. Any tips i need to know. Do they provise tea towels and cups etc. What are the cooking facilities like as on a budget!! will eat out as well, any recommendations for places to eat. Not going till july, hope weather not too hot. How much is air con? you have been so helpful. Hope you are returning soon. !!
jo-jo
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jo-jo it will be a revelation. Sounds like you're staying at Kaloudis which is in a perfect position right by the sea. But there is so much more than just that.
Cooking your own food is not likely to be worth bothering. Try Stekis or Ammos for low cost good food. But none of the many places to eat are very expensive. And the food is all divine. I cannot possibly describe all the choices to eat in one post. There are hundreds on the forum. Just let me say, I always put on a lot of weight when I go home to Arillas, and as a fussy eater (I only eat good food) I am always spoilt for choice. I just deleted the start of a list of our favourites because it would have been a whole page. Try Brouklis and Grazella though.
It will be hot in July. We arrive on 7th, and expect temperatures in the high 30s or even well into 40s C. I just LOVE it. If you see us about, don't be afraid to come up and say hello. Don't worry if you're not sure it is us - anyone you meet will be happy to chat. That's one of the beauties of our place - it produces feelings of belonging and welcome. And it is not artificial.
Phil
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Hi jo-jo - it's great to be able to help someone on the forum! It's usually others who have to help me....
Kaloudis provide fridge and table-top type cooker with two rings, also a new (ish) kettle. In our studio we had dinner plates, tea plates, side plates, soup bowls and cereal bowls for three people (why three, I don't know) also mugs and glasses. Cutlery provided, bread board and knife, corkscrew and bottle opener, etc. Can't think of anything else you would need! Oh - tea towel and hot plate holder there as well. We took a couple of paper/disposable dishcloths. We did not take washing up liquid but didn't eat in much so just rinsed everything.
Aircon at Kaloudis is 5 euros per day which I thought was expensive, but I'm told it's quite cheap compared to a few others.
Take mozzie things - eg plug-in for the room. You can buy room spray and other preparations reasonably cheaply there (or at least slightly less than England)
When we left on Friday they were heading for a heat wave (upwards of 36 degrees) but not sure if it's happened or not.
Eating out - most restaurants/tavernas have "specials" boards - eg Graziella did a three course meal for 9 euros, and I know Kaloudis also has specials. Four of us ate out together every night and usually had at least a starter and a main course and LOTS of house wine and the bill was between 45 and 75 euros depending on where we went and how much we had to eat....!!
Honestly, jo-jo, you will love Arillas. I've tried to post a few photos but had difficulty. If I can manage to post some of Kaloudis I will and let you know where you can find them
Have fun!
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Jo-jo - if you look at the menu on the left of this page, click on forum, then go to photo gallery and then more photo's I've managed to put a couple of photos on for you
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Hi Jo-Jo. I agree with what everyone else has already said. You will have a lovely time in Arillas and you have picked wonderful accommodation in the Kaloudis. My daughter and I are returning this year on 19th June for one week (wish it was 2, but you can't have everything). I (like Janis) had tears in my eyes on the coach on the way home and I've never been like that when returning from a holiday We also stayed in those lovely appartments that overlook the gardens in the picture that Janis posted.
Becky
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Janis and everyone! Thanks so much for your information. It looks really fab and I AM very excited. Sounds like we will be eating out! Good to know there is a fridge AND AIR con will be good. I will take mozzy stuff too! mY hubby always gets bitten.
I am a novice to the net and have difficulty getting around this site till more practice, tried to see photos janis but couldnt find them. i went to forum them photos then a blank. Will try again and let you know.
I feel i have made friends before I go!! Hope i bump into some of you. At least the weather is good to dry your washing! I hope you are going again soon Janis. Am looking forward tomeeting Billy and family.
Last year we stayed in Pelekas which had nice views but 3 mile walk to the beach which we did every day there and back, last week in sept so not too hot. Thanks everyone and any more tips appreciated.
Are the roads safe to hire scooter for a day to explore local scenery (not far)?
jo-jo
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You will have a lovely time.We stayed at the Kaloudis last june and we couldnt fault it.We had breakfast in the studio,only toast though,and only after getting the grill on the right setting cant remember what i did wrong but it took ages to start with.One thing we did do was to put the thicker cover under our bottom sheet as the beds were a bit hard.Enjoy yourselves.
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jojo
We have hired scooters in Arillas on several occasions and found them to be reliable and safe. That as long as the rider is aware of the road conditions and drives accordinly and always insist on having correct fitting and undamaged helmet, take care and enjoy.
Paul
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Well done PaulC. But the image of me on a scooter with wobbly legs defies description!
I know you are right. Many others have done it too. Easy to hire but drive according to the conditions.
After a few years of going to Arillas, you spend so much more time chatting and gossiping to everyone, I am seriously worried that two weeks isn't enough for us two...
Phil
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... I am seriously worried that two weeks isn't enough for us two...
Phil
I most seriously have to agree with you Mr Phil!
Eileenxxx
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Monsieur Phillipe, Phillip, Filipos, Mr Phil, Willy (They're the ones I can publish...)
What have I done to deserve all these titles? Shut up Di, leaving my legs in the Nut doesn't count. Being an Arillas Hippy appeals to me most. Thanks for the monicker Eileen, clearly someone who understands me!
I remain wondering how we are going to fit you all in with only two weeks at home. So sorry if we miss you - believe me it isn't personal. Send me an email and we can be virtual for another year....
Phil
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Isn't the name Philip from the Greek anyway? Something to do with a lover of....
(philisophy - lover of thoughts??) OK, luvver??!!
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Hi Jo-jo
When in July are you going? They have studios facing the sea and at the top of the village, they are all in good positions. You will have a great holiday the Kaloudis Village it is the best place to stay. Everthing you need is in the apartment for a basic holiday or you can buy in the shop on site. The family are great. Hope you have a good time.
Sunshine
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Hi jo jo, re hiring a scooter. We always hire a quad bike for a few days its great fun. We've travelled miles and had no problems. Its great to go through the small villages, its like time has stood still. We even went up pantocractor (the highest mountain on corfu)on the quad. The views are stunning. We use olgas travel,she'll sort out whatever you want. Enjoy it.
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lol Janis. Is it greek for "Arillas luvver" or is that now Arilliac....
Take care
phil
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We came back last Friday after two glorious weeks at the Kaloudis - Rula was wonderful, Billy and Billy great fun, everything was so clean and tidy we could not fault the place.
We had a partial seaview and in the evenings were fascinated by the fire flies in the bushes.
We didn't bother using the cooking facilities as the meals in restaurants were so good, we enjoyed the Portofino, Marina and Thalassa as we watched the sunsets and chuckled at Billy's banter in the Kaloudis restaurant - everywhere we ate, the food was lovely.
They were clearing stones from the beach while we were there and starting to put out the sunbeds as we left - it would have been an added bonus to have had a beach, but it didn't really bother us because simply being in Arillas was the tonic we both craved - and two weeks is not nearly long enough.
Already planning for September/October 2010 when I retire. What better place to blow the retirement package than Arillas!
p.s. tell everybody it's a horrible place as we need to keep it a secret.....sssshhhh!
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Thanks everyone for all your information. Thanks Janis and Sunshine!! We are going 10
July for 2 weeks. It sounds a wonderful place!!
Where do I find some pics!!
Cheers Jo-jo x
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Hi Jo-jo
If you type Kaloudis Village, Arillas, in your search bar at the top of your screen it will give you some options, click on the Thompson one and you can see some piccies there.
Amanda
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yes janis the sun was out for that week in the 90`s to 95`s my be more so me and ann drank a lot more beer lol got back today so sad to leve will be back in 2010 sept
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Hi Keith and Ann, so pleased it was warm (hot) enough for you. Have you left some ale for me ?? lol Glad you had a good one mate.....
riggers...
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Welcome back, Keith & Ann! Ann's posted some wonderful pics on facebook!
Can't believe we're back - loved every minute of our holiday in wonderful Arillas!
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Jen and me understand you about Arillas so well Janis.
Watched you get excited, go there, come back here, yearn for more... Well that defines Jen and Phil. And all of us AA's. (That used to mean alcoholics anonymous, but now it is Arillas Addicts. ) Late posting news - Dimitris has christened us ARRILIACS. Proud to be one....
Kaloudis and SplishSplash are just as special as all of our places. We spent the end of season with them last year. Kaloudis turns many friends on, that's good enough for me. Acommodation on par, facilities good, book early.....
Moi? je suis un homme. Les femmes decide....
Phil
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Ah, Phil, tu sais parler en Francais, hein? C'est toujours que les femmes decident.... Not sure if that's good French or not??? I'm trying to say that the men are boss, but the ladies always make the final decision lol!! I can manage with French when I'm in France, a little better than Greek when in Greece. ALWAYS enjoy ourselves anyway! Yammas!!
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Yassou Janis, life is for enjoying and we all do in ARILLAS.
Yammas
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Yassou, Riggers, yes, life IS for living, but I can't believe how I've managed to slip back into the normal hectic everyday life back here in England! I LOVE the way of life (and the people and visitors!) in Arillas but cannot seem to emulate it here....
MUST try and go back to Arillas again soon..
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hi everyone
Thanks so much, loved hearing your comments. Another question Janis! or anyone! How long is the transfer from airport to Arillas. We are with Tompson landing 20.30 ish from leeds bradford flight. Does anyone know if that friday eve flight then takes you round the houses to get to Arillas, Sidari first? Is it worth the 55 Euros to get taxi? I dont mind a scenic tour but not hours!!
Any suggestions or opinions please. I had so hoped for a sea view as we spend a lot of time looking out! do any of the studios have see view Janis?
Thanks again Janis
jo-jo
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hi jojo
coach can be between 1-2hrs,,we always get the taxi ,the driver is waiting for you with a nameboard in arrivals then 40 mins later your in arillas.yuor choice...yammas
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We haved touched lucky with the transfers, all been direct to Arillas bar one. This went via Sidari, San Stef, and it took about 2 1/2 hours with all the drop offs. It is a gamble you have to make. Last June we decided to try taxi and the coach was only 30 mins behind us when we got to Kaloudis.
riggers..
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Hi Jo-Jo
Last year was our first time to Arillas and we only had one drop of prior to us and that was in Corfu town, took us about an hour to get from the airport to the Kaloudis. Hopefully will be the same this year. Can't wait!
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Yes sorry forgot to mention about an hour all other transfers....
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Thanks everyone!
Will prob risk transfer with Thomson
jo-jo
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Hi Jo-jo
we have always done the transfer with Thomson, longest it took was 2 hours but quickest is one hour. Never really been a problem as the scenery is fantastic.
Amanda
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That's the way we looked at it, Amanda, when we went package. The coach transfer only took about an hour and a half, but we just enjoyed the scenery!
Going independant this year ....... ooops sorry, independent!
lynn xx
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Hi jo-jo: as per other comments, I think it's a case of luck. We came in from Leeds Bradford (hiya neighbour!) on Friday 8th, TOM3550, due to land 21.00. We were told at LBA there'd be a 30 min delay but it was only 15mins and we landed just about on time. Unfortunately we did have to do the trip dropping people off in Sidari but it was still OK as we took the opportunity to see and remember a lot of the area. As we heading down towards Arillas we got very excited.... We arrived at Kaloudis about half eleven/quarter to midnight, but OF COURSE the bar was still open, so we dumped our cases in the room and went to meet Billy, Billy (the kid) and Jimmy. An hour or so later we went to bed!
Don't worry about a sea view, Kaloudis is SO close to the sea, even if you don't have a sea view you can still see a long way and the gardens are lovely.
Enjoy!
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Hi Janis,
Thanks so much! It isnt long and as long as the bar is open!!
I enjoy flying from leeds, we always get the bus there so fairly hassle free!
Thanks everyone!! Anyone else there 10 july?!
jo-jo
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Well, Jo-Jo - here's a testament to how much we enjoyed Kaloudis - we've booked already for next year! 17th - 31st May. Can't wait !
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Yes us too Janis, i was waiting for thomson to put their holidays on the website for next year for about 2 months. When they come up i booked.........very quickly.
riggers...
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Re the transfer. We have been to Arillas twice (also flying from LBA) and each time the transfer took about an hour and a half. I would advise that you buy some bottled water in Leeds to have ready to drink on the bus. We got very thirsty on the transfer last time. Also, Fridays are very busy at the airport and you may have a long wait for your luggage - the Thomsons rep told me that they get 17 flights in from the UK that day.
Have a great holiday. We went to Croatia this year and it was fabby, but the food wasn't as good as the food in Arillas.
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hi Janis
So pleased you booked for May next year!!! Might be joining you if success this year which i am sure it will be!! Will keep u posted!! This time next week will be there !!
JO - JO X
look forward to meeting Annie on the 17 th!
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jo-jo you'll have a wonderful time - just remember when you're there - as you walk down the driveway towards the sea, you'll think "Paradise" - honest, you will! And Billy and his family are great, as are Billy and Jimmy in the bar. In fact EVERYONE in Arillas is wonderful and friendly !