Arrived back in the early hours yesterday after two very different weeks in Arillas. I set off in the middle of the night on 22 April, travelling via Athens because I didn't realise when I booked in November that Easyjet would be starting their direct flights in April....never mind. I was travelling with my 89 year old father and a friend so was a bit apprehensive about the journey but I have to say my dad was amazing throughout. I am encouraging him to write his own post...
The journey was ok but both flights were delayed by an hour. We were greeted at Corfu airport at 11pm from a packed domestic flight by Theo with our rented car. I highly recommend Arillas rent-a-car - he couldn't be more helpful. We managed to find our way out of Corfu and about an hour later arrived at To Kouklospito for the first time. I was so excited I could hardly breathe. Some kind friends (no guesses who) had stocked up the fridge for us and after the first metaxa, my dad danced a jig in the kitchen!!!! I shall never forget waking up that first morning to the view and the sunshine - thank you Eileen for posting that message for me.
We were busy every day unpacking boxes, assembling furniture and shopping for cleaning materials, lights, mirrors, irons, drills etc so several trips into Corfu Town. But we also made time for some sightseeing - got to Paleo (best taramasalata in a taverna there Phil) and went up to the monastery. They still rush out into the road at Makrades even in April to accost you....also went to Old Perithia and right round to Kassiopi and Kalimi one day.
The weather was lovely - cold in the mornings and evenings but sunny and warm during the day. Only one morning of rain until the last day....more of that later. Most importantly it was fantastic seeing all my old friends after the winter - Dimitris and Litsa and of course young Bebis. He is really cute with a gorgeous smile. Dimitris was looking very sexy girls I have to say with long hair but sadly he had it cut on the first day of the season....the professional look I guess. Roula, Nikos, Noufri and the lovely Irini (my dad liked her!). Lots of new things in her shop.....you must visit.....and she has heard that Whispers might be open this year.....keep your eyes open. Also heard there may be a pharmacy opening opposite Tria Adelphia....Caught up with Jimmy and Spiros at the Rainbow and Marinos at Horizon plus Angela and family at the bakery supermarket. It was strange being there with hardly anything open but there was a real buzz of excitement everywhere with everyone beavering to get ready for opening.
By the time we left, a lot more places were opening but still no sign of life at Costas or Thalassa, or Eftihia. It doesn't look as though the Arilla Inn will be opening either. The Akti pool was very busy and came on even in the time I was there....very different.....wait and see....not sure when they will open. We were the first customers at the Rainbow which is looking great this year, and I think I was the first swimmer in the pool. All the family were there on opening evening....and my dad sat on his bar stool sipping his metaxa chatting with all the regulars. He loved it all.
I only managed one afternoon on the beach as I was so busy and have done a separate post on that and will also post on my experience of Greek Easter.
Waited in vain outside the Coconut on the first Tuesday night but not even Eggy came and it remained closed so no Forum meeting. I know it's useful perhaps identifying one place so everyone knows where to meet but do you think we should perhaps "share the love" a bit and give our custom to other bars and tavernas as well rather than identifying just one? Just a thought....
Whilst there, I bumped into Eggy and Mrs Egg a few times...and then Eileen and Keith - yes, he does exist...first time I had met him. Also saw Joe's mum, and as I was leaving bumped into Mark and Dee. As I drove out of Arillas I saw Viv and Pete going for a "volta" so had to stop for a quick chat with them too. Missed Martin W though....
The only slight disaster was that it poured with rain the day we left and we were hoping to get the sheets and towels dry before we left....not a chance....thank you Eileen for offering to go in and fold them all up for me later!
So in all, a great time....still loads to do on the house and it is not surprisingly still not finished....but very habitable and well worth the years of waiting, anguish and heartache. If you have the energy to walk up there at sunset you won't be disppointed - will have to get an outdoor fridge though to leave drinks for everyone!!
My greatest pleasure though was sharing all this first visit with my dad and I felt immensely proud of him. I will always remember him dancing in my kitchen and his face when he saw the fireflies for the first time....fingers crossed he will be able to come back with me next spring.
Sorry this has been so long....hopefully it will be the first of many holiday reports this summer so we can perhaps give Eggy a break to do some of the other things that he and Wendy want to do....like go to the beach or visit the UK!
