Amidst much talk of countries and economies crashing and defaulting, I thought I’d concentrate on something we have some control over: finding a room in Greece.
I remember talking to a friend before a trip to Greece a couple years back. The conversation went something like this:
Friend: So are you all set for your trip?
Me: Yes!
Friend: Are your reservations made?
Me: No!
After much trial and error in planning the best route to Ithaka, here is my best advice:
If you are traveling to the Greek islands outside of August, do no (do not) reserve a room before you get there.
Seriously, here’s how to get a great room on the Greek islands: Step off the boat.
That’s all it takes, people. As soon as you step off the boat, you’ll be met by a crowd of people offering you any and all manner of room. They’ll show you photographs and will most likely offer you a great price. Want a room in the old town with a a view of the sunset from your terrace? How about €35? Need a shack off the beach to contemplate the meaning of life? Is €40 too much?
Let’s say your boat sails into Sifnos at an off time and there aren’t any room owners to meet you. Here’s what you do then: Walk approximately 100m to the tourist office at the port and ask them to recommend a great room, or, even better, walk around until you see a sign for a room you might like.
Any time you reserve a room ahead of time, it will most likely be in a hotel-like setting. You know… a front desk, check-in and check-out times, tourists rounded up like obedient sheep around the pool and snack areas. Sadly disappointing, considering you could have had a view over the churning sea that sprouted Aphrodite, and had the company of people who knew you by name and invited you to share watermelon and figs with them.
Without fail, the worst rooms I’ve had in Greece have been the result of reservations. Serves me right for planning ahead. At this point, I’d rather pound nails into the floor with my forehead than stay in a resort or hotel in Greece. I am, however, willing to concede that my views may not be exactly universal, so take this advice with a grain of sea salt. If you’re the kind of person who experiences anxiety when winging it, and would rather not leave anything to chance, then by all means plan ahead and book a package tour. I recommend the island of Kos.
I should also point out that when traveling outside the islands, i.e. mainland Greece and Athens, definitely do make a reservation. You have nothing to lose on the mainland and in cities because all the rooms are in hotels anyway.
© 2011, Ithaka Bound. All rights reserved.
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