Arillas Forum

Welcome to Arillas => Accommodation reviews => Package Holidays => Topic started by: biglil on May 27, 2014, 12:08:04 AM

Title: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: biglil on May 27, 2014, 12:08:04 AM
Hi everybody I have been reading all about Arillas and it seems  to tick all the boxes for us ( a couple in their 50's) we must have looked at all the accommodation in Arillas and we are spoilt for choice. We would love to stay at the Horizon but this is going to be very expensive as we would have to do it independently and we have to go in peak season as I work in a school but I don't have a teachers wage. My other option is the matharaki, staying in a studio ,and we have been quoted £1151 byThomson's for 2 weeks in August next year (2015) I know that the package holidays seem to sell out very quickly for Arillas. Should I go for this? Does this seem a fair price? Or should I wait a little longer to see if the price goes down or keep on saving and see if we can afford the horizon. The kaloudois seems nice but maybe a little too busy for our liking Your comments and experience would be much appreciated.Thankyou Biglil
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Jo Wissett on May 27, 2014, 12:20:46 AM
Hi Lil and welcome to the forum! I would say that you would definitely get cheaper than the Mathraki price you have been quoted. I am restricted to school holidays also and by booking flights within minutes of them being released (Oct time) our 2 week holiday in July for FOUR people including accommodation will be around £1500 but that is beach-front accomodation. There are literally dozens of apts rooms dotted around the resort, some from as little as 25 euro per night (total!).  Most of the packages have private apts also.  You need to identify what you want ie pool or close to beach or in a quiet area and we will get on the case! You have made an excellent choice!
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: biglil on May 27, 2014, 12:45:20 AM
Thanks for the quick response. We would like something fairly central and nothing with hills. Ideally we would like a pool, a/c  and  near the beach.We would like it to be fairly quiet on a night (from 12 am ) no loud music etc . You seem to get a fantastic deal who do you fly with? I'm  a bit nervous of diy as I've never done it before but i'm willing to take a chance. Do you sign up with all the airlines so you know when the flights are released? My husband would really like to fly from LBA or Manchester and have day flights. Is that possible? Thanks for your help Lil
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: kaz on May 27, 2014, 11:48:42 PM
Hi Lil

Welcome.... As Jo says, once you have done DIY once or twice it is not as daunting as you may think. It does help if you know the resort a little bit and know some of the accommodation providers. Travelling as a couple we generally find DIY cheaper but that is not always the case... some packages can be good deals, it just depends if you catch the bargains at the right time, and when you want to travel. Your problem is having to travel in August when the resort is busier and flights and accommodation that bit more expensive. We generally book our flights first and immediately after that, contact our chosen accommodation owner to confirm availability. Booking well in advance there isn't generally a problem but occasionally we book last minute flights and will have a couple of apartments/studios in mind in case our first choice is not available. In June (our preferred holiday time) a studio as you describe can be had from anything around 180Euro/week up to approx. 250 Euro. There are some a bit cheaper, some a bit more expensive and a few a lot more. EasyJet, Monarch, Ryanair and Jet2 all fly from the airports you mention but the trick is to be straight onto the booking system as soon as the flights are released. They all have slightly different release dates so you have to watch this forum and other flight forums to be aware when flights are being released and then act very quickly... we've had return flight, with luggage and seats from as little as £110 return each. I know Jo got some really good prices last year when we managed to find out the first day that the flights were on sale. Also, don't forget to factor in approx. £100 for return taxi transfers. Most of the apartments in Arillas  would meet your needs as you describe them.

Try looking on a few of the airline websites now to get a feel of how they work and what they look like to give you a bit of confidence and an idea of the pricing system. Then check out this web site (there is a list of apartments and studios which generally have a link to the owners own website) to look at the apartments on offer as well as trip advisor to give you an idea of where you might like to stay, then come back and ask a few questions....one thing for sure ...there will be plenty of people quick and willing to answer any of you questions and to offer advice. p.s. Kaloudis is as good as any of the others and nowhere is that 'lively'.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: diana on May 28, 2014, 12:24:28 AM
We are going this July 25th for 2 weeks and for 2 adults staying at the
Makathi, we paid £1,039 which I thought was very reasonable.
To be fair prices could increase next year so I think that was a reasonable quote.
We chose the Makathi for similar reasons to you.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: diana on May 28, 2014, 12:30:52 AM
Sorry, Mathraki.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: justphil on May 28, 2014, 01:13:49 AM
Some really good advice here. We always go independent. In the end you need a flight, a transfer and accommodation. These days that's all you get from the Tour Operator anyway. The Rep is now history.

Returners have more knowledge of where to be, but forums like this can help first timers get it right. Unless of course they don't like Arillas when they get there.... Not many of those in my experience!

As for prices, the only way Jen and I manage two visits a year is to take a gamble by booking and paying for the flights from Bristol the MOMENT they are released by EasyJet. We get the heads up on when that happens from other members of arillas.com (mainly Thorpe - to whom we owe a great deal.) We now always stay at Bardis Sun Studios in July and Marvel in April or October, because Jen's mobility is best served, so she gets a holiday as well. We are staying from 7 to 28 July and will have paid about £850 for 3 weeks.

Phil

PS in peak season we book Bardis a year ahead, before we leave.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Jersey Bean on May 28, 2014, 01:31:44 AM
Good advise we always book our accommodation before we leave otherwise it sells out really quick in August. Last year when we booked Kaloudis with Roula she only had one apartment left and that was starting on a Tuesday so we booked flights accordingly when they came out.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Jo Wissett on May 28, 2014, 01:56:43 AM
Yes, we also book our following year's apt before leaving but always point out there may be a couple of days fluctuation depending on flights. There will always be flights, albeit maybe a bit more than you wanted to pay but for us, our accomodation is more important so that is our priority. X
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Chris G on May 28, 2014, 02:09:05 AM
Hi
We also stay at the Bardis Sun Studios usually in June we also book up for the following year on the day we leave and then look for flights when they have been released that way we are sure that we have accommodation for our holiday,

We have over the past few years always traveled independent, it works for us however many of our friends like the security that package holiday gives, when you do it yourself it works out cheaper and gives you more independence with regard to where you want to stay and traveling to and from the airport, although some tour companies do offer the option of traveling by taxi, at an extra cost of course.

We are fairly flexible with regards to where we fly from, we normally fly from Newcastle but this year we found the cheapest option was to fly from Edinburgh, this entails a journey of about 1 hr 45 mins but with no family traveling with us this is not a problem.

After you have tried the do it your self option you may well continue to do so, the Arillas web site is great for finding accommodation there is something for all tastes,

There are several travel options for transferring to and from the airport, taxi, mini bus, resort shuttle or you could (as we have done in the past) hire a car. When you decide where you would like to stay ask the proprietors of the accommodation if they can arrange a taxi for you or give advice on the best means of transfer you will find that they are always eager to help, another option is to post your flight times on this forum and ask if anyone would like to taxi share.

What ever you decide you have chosen a fantastic place to stay, Arillas will surely win your hearts over and have you coming back again.    
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: justphil on May 28, 2014, 02:33:24 AM
Lil, keep posting. Whatever knowledge we have we share. (Sounds like marriage vows, but it is true.) If you look back on the older posts you will see how the forum has developed. And all written by folk like me and Jen who have had their lives changed for the better by finding Arillas, then realising that the obsession is shared by so many others.

Enjoy Arillas for what it is. Simples............

Phil
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: biglil on May 28, 2014, 10:50:32 AM
Thank you for all your advice, what a friendly and helpful forum.I have been doing a dummy run this year and flights are working out between £600 to £700 plus transfers and accommodation I think the matharaki is beginning to look like a close contender. Going back to what Phil said about April, what is it like then? is it mainly closed and cold or do you think its worth taking a chance? we would be tied  to going around the 5th-8th april for a week. Thanks again Lil
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: diana on May 28, 2014, 11:18:52 AM
Also it may be a little extra doing a package holiday, but at least if there are any problems with air lines going bust etc, easier to get refund and sort out.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: diana on May 28, 2014, 11:26:17 AM
April is not going to be guaranteed sun like July/August and would imagine limited taverna's open.
Remember if you book independently you will add on about £100 for return taxi also.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: diana on May 28, 2014, 11:29:03 AM
At the end of the day, if you want or have to holiday peek season it obviously will be more money. School holidays flight prices go up unfortunately.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: justphil on May 28, 2014, 01:09:12 PM
Early April will see most of Arillas closed, and the weather can be "changeable." We love it like that, since we always spend 2-3 weeks in July with the heat, hustle and bustle, and use it as a time to catch up with friends, and truly recharge our batteries. It wouldn't suit everyone. That said, this year we did loads, and the weather was glorious. (Thank you to all who spent time with us.)

Peak season flights at £600-700 each (or even half that) would see us staying in the UK. As many have said, we gamble by booking and paying for flights as they are released (usually about September/October) and this year paid £165 each.return. You won't end up in a tent on the beach, and will find somewhere to stay, but in July/August the most popular fill up early.

Best wishes
Phil


Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: suzy61 on May 28, 2014, 02:00:28 PM
Hi Lil!

We have been to Arillas twice and I'm also quite new to the forum. On both occasions we travelled with Thomson's as at the time of booking it was the cheapest deal. We stayed at the Kaloudis Village and couldn't fault it! I am also restricted to school holidays although in Leicester we usually break up a week or even two earlier than many places which obviously reflects in the price. Since joining the forum I have picked up so many helpful tips on where to stay,flights. taxis and lots of other useful tips that I will continue to try booking independently.
With regret we have booked to go to Alykes this year in Zante (not that we're not looking forward to it) but so wish we were returning to Arillas. However we are fully booked to return in August in 2015! (a little late for us but my husband had last choice on dates at his place of work for next year) but we still managed to get a very reasonable price at the Kaloudis. especially for August!
As I have previously said the Kaloudis is a fantastic place to stay and although I can't comment on any other accomodation, the forum members don't have anything negative to say about anywhere or anything in Arillas.
I'm sure will love your holiday in Arillas and come to love,respect and appriciate it and the people as much as we all do.

Enjoy!

Suzy x


   
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: cypress on May 28, 2014, 03:28:53 PM
Hi Biglil

I don't know of any, or have heard of any, accommodation that's not worth staying at in Arillas. From what you've said about aircon and location have you had a look at the Marina? I think it's about 50e a night for two and about half the price of the Horizon in August. It's right on the sea front with the same perfect sea views as the Horizon, if you book well in advance you might be able to get a front room.

I always fly from Leeds or Manchester and the flight times are always good, usually Monday to Monday. Last year I landed about 1pm and this year I fly out at 2.30pm from Manchester with Jet2.

It doesn't seem that long ago that I was a tad nervous too about booking independently but the only thing that we don't get now is the rep meeting and I never went to those anyway.  One year after a holiday with a separate flight and hotel booking our flight was delayed by hours and Thomson put us up in a hotel for the night anyway.

Good luck with whichever decision you make, it's a dead cert you'll both love Arillas.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Val n Bill on May 28, 2014, 04:27:01 PM

We have stayed in various places in Arillas but love the Mathraki best, they are two bedded studios, a great pool but no children which can be a bonus ;)

  Val x
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: suzy61 on May 28, 2014, 04:57:51 PM
Val n Bill
Didn't realise that the Mathraki was for adults only. As I work with children that would be a real bonus for me!
Thanks!

Suzy x
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: ness44 on May 28, 2014, 05:54:36 PM
Diane we are going to Mathraki 25th July Also. Taking my daughter and her friend who are 16 and have 2 studios. Stayed there last year for 2weeks and loved it. Where you flying from?
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Eggy on May 28, 2014, 05:59:18 PM
They only have children on Barbie night,

The alternative is chicken or a pork chop!!

And... before any of you shoot me for this I have to say..

I love children but I haven't been well lately, am under a lot of stress and have to cope with my sense of humour much more than you do.

Finally... Mathraki is a super place to stay and unwind.
 (You never get splashed or hit on the head with a ball , or a strimmer)
...unless that Val n Bill are in the pool again!!!

Negg
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: diana on May 29, 2014, 12:19:00 AM
They will be in the pool the second week we are there, so better watch out lol! Can't wait to meet u both, Val an Bill.
Ness we arrived same day as u, coming from Norwich. Think we talked about this earlier in the year. U will be there exactly same two weeks as us, can't wait!
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Val n Bill on May 29, 2014, 11:48:21 AM

Eggy is ace with a strimmer especially as he can now start one.
We have been having demonstrations in the hope that Bill can pick up this highly specialized skill.
If not Eggy will have to come to England to do our garden. ;) ;)

  Val x
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Rachel B on May 31, 2014, 02:05:03 AM
Hi biglil,

I've also been looking for next year :D

Thomson's have a good one at the mo (well i think it is :-)) Mathraki £475 pp for 2 weeks 03/08/15 - This one tempted me a lot but as i haven't even been on this years holidays yet, so i thought i better restrain myself lol

Thomas Cook also have Tria Adelphia at £493 31/07/15 for 2 weeks and Rainbow at £511 (same dates etc)

Icelolly.com also have a few on offer, a little cheaper than above prices as well but I don't think transfers are included on there (not sure if they're optional or not).

I'll keep looking anyway and if i see a good deal, i'll post it here :-)

Rachel x
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: biglil on May 31, 2014, 06:09:46 PM
Thanks for your help. Tried booking matharki but it took me to final page before saying" holiday unavailable" It must have sold out! I am still looking. Has anyone had any experience of the Malibu apartments? They look really nice but I would imagine they are going to be noisy. Also had a  look at thetis but mixed reviews on t/a 5 euros a day for safety deposit box. Thanks again for all replies
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Jersey Bean on May 31, 2014, 07:06:11 PM
What about The Mirage they are in a good position on the front.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: justphil on May 31, 2014, 07:36:26 PM
Lil, I have misgivings about Mathraki being fully booked already. It has happened before that the Tour Operator said it was unavailable when this was not true. Maybe Val (who is there right now) could enquire and shed some light on it.

Phil
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: ness44 on May 31, 2014, 09:41:00 PM
That happened to me last year when tried to book mathraki . One day it was available then the next it wasn't. Contacted Thomson who said it was due to the contract not being finalized and contacted apartments who said the the same.kept checking website and it came back up within couple weeks at a really good price. Them went up by about £800 within days.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Rachel B on May 31, 2014, 10:39:22 PM
If you see a price online, like Thomas Cook for example, if you print the page off they will honor that price in store. They have the means to check if it really is unavailable. They themselves have probably put a hold on it possibly to raise prices.

I have done that with previous holidays. I think they may also price match other stores as well. It's worth a try anyway!

Rachel x
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Jo Wissett on May 31, 2014, 11:56:52 PM
My son saw a deal on fri for £260 pp for Mathraki going 18th July for a week  this year. Amazing price.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: june on June 01, 2014, 10:10:11 AM
Yes it's so much lower for next year too. We've booked for June 2015 Kaloudis £372 for 2 weeks and Mathraki coming up £349 each for 2 weeks. This year we've e paid over £500 each
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: ness44 on June 01, 2014, 10:59:28 AM
Thomson charge £10 per person in the shop to price match them online price. It's ridiculous.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: JohnTheRef&Dot on June 01, 2014, 12:58:35 PM
Thomson charge £10 per person in the shop to price match them online price. It's ridiculous.
So there is no price match then....
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: ness44 on June 01, 2014, 01:44:30 PM
I ended up saving about £30 by the time I paid the price match fee sobetter than nothing. That was last years holiday but the year before they didn't charge. You Also have to be careful when buying your currency from Thomson as they put a £3.95 buy back charge on automatically without asking you. They done it to us last year and when we went back in they said we didn't say we didn't want it!!!!  Con!!!
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: june on June 01, 2014, 03:23:36 PM
I must have been lucky in April I booked Majorca for a week in Sept and they priced matched it without an additional charge
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: Claire on June 03, 2014, 02:06:23 PM
Hi. I am travelling to Arillas for the first time this summer. I have booked a flight direct with the airline. Regarding accommodation, check out www.greencorfu.com - they have been really helpful with advice about where to stay - they are also an eco/green tour company, so you know that if booking through them you are supporting the environment and community or Arillas.
Title: Re: New to forum can you help with accomodation
Post by: biglil on June 03, 2014, 07:50:23 PM
Thanks for the link, had a look  at Corfu Palms. It looks really nice and quiet. Went onto their website and we can use the pool next door? Looks like that could be another strong contender. Spoilt for choice! Thankyou everbody for your advise and wisdom.