Arillas Forum

Welcome to Arillas => Accommodation reviews => Topic started by: dimitris on August 12, 2008, 11:48:39 PM

Title: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: dimitris on August 12, 2008, 11:48:39 PM
Just curious to see how this year's holidays were booked....
Any comments on how you booked your flights and accommodation are  also welcome

Thank you very much for keeping our website in such an updated and informative condition!

Dimitris

 
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: GaryS on August 13, 2008, 12:21:21 AM
It was a package deal, through Thomas Cook. Would however in the future like to book the flights and accommodation ourselves, giving the hotel and apartment owners a bigger slice of the pie.

Hope you are full tonight, I miss your wonderful sardines :-) Of happy meals

Gary & Carolyn
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on August 13, 2008, 12:22:22 AM
Hi Dimitris

July we booked Annas on email, after talking to her on arillas.com. We booked flight only with Thomas Cook because it was cheapest. And we booked Noula for the transfer throught the website (think you know her....)

September we booked EasyJet very suddenly after Joe's post about airfares (glad we did) and Eggy helped us book Elena Stella for both acommodation and transfer while we were there in July.

We always try to go independent, but last October we found a package to Kaloudis cheaper than any flight only.

Looking forward to my bourdeto and galactobouriko in two weeks time
Best wishes to you, Litsa and bebis. See you soon
Phil
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: jinksy on August 13, 2008, 12:57:02 AM
Hi dimitri, we booked package with thomascook online, priced independant travel, but package worked out cheaper. Stayed in rainbow with dimitri & spiro, wonderful time there and all the other places we visited, had a really good time hoping to come back again next year for 7th time, thanks for a great website. yammas, chris
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: JohnTheRef&Dot on August 13, 2008, 01:25:17 AM
Hi Dimitris

We went Package with Olympic stayed at the Christos. Down side was their transfer times.

Hope you are All well see you next year
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Baldy Barry on August 13, 2008, 02:22:05 AM
Hi Dimitris !
We booked through Thomas Cook on a package at the Akti .
Came out cheapest option when we added it all up.
See you over the weekend !
Title: Are: Independently or Package?
Post by: Paul C on August 13, 2008, 02:31:21 AM
Hi Dimitris
We booked our accommodation independently last year (provisionally) and confirmed by email once the flights were booked off the internet. This was in December 07. See you in September.
Paul
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: martin-w on August 13, 2008, 03:43:56 AM
Hi Dimitris!
I booked directly with Dorita at The Bardis Sun Hotel by telephone and confirmed the dates by fax once I had booked and confirmed the flight details.
I booked my flight by using the local travel agent as the airline (Thomsonfly) would not accept 'single' seat bookings on the internet.
Dorita arranged my taxi transfer from the airport. This was my first 'independent' holiday and it all went very smoothly.
I had a great time in May, hope to see you again soon.
All the best,
Martin.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Erja on August 13, 2008, 07:55:14 AM
Yassoo Dimitris,

I favour booking independently. My flights were booked in June via Thomson and now at the end ogf this month I booked flights with Monarch via AVRO.

My insurance is also booked independently from Club Direct.

And the accommondation is a lovely little place called Brouklis Rooms which I have booked for both times independently and directly with the helpful owner :)

See you in just over two weeks!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: riggers on August 13, 2008, 08:41:23 AM
Hi Dimitris.

I have always booked by package. This was the only way if you want to stop at the Kaloudis although now i think Billy is doing some private. Must look into that.

See you in 4 weeks.

riggers...
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: june on August 13, 2008, 09:00:18 AM
Hi Dimitris

Have been to Arilas 6 times. Each time booked with Thomson to Kaloudis Obviously love it which is why we keep returning and hope to keep doing so.

June
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: pg32 on August 13, 2008, 09:42:19 AM
We booked Helios Court Villa again direct with the owners while we were there on holiday last year! Our flights were booked through internet with XL and using the code someone put on here saved us £40. Air Malta we are flying with.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Anne on August 13, 2008, 09:50:30 AM
Hi Dimitris,
We are coming back in October for our 10th visit - we have booked a package with Thomson and will be staying at Kaloudis. We did look at booking independantly but this package worked out much cheaper.
Looking forward to seeing you all especially your baby.
Anne and Phil
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Julie j on August 13, 2008, 10:19:32 AM
Hi Dimitris,
In May we booked with Thomas Cook because there were seven of us and we wanted to stay at Nafsika, Rainbow Bar, but in July we booked flight only (flights from Bristol are a bit limited - we hate going to Gatwick) and arranged a room at Arilla Inn Studios with Leo via a phone call to Jimmy, and as always had a car delivered to the Airport by Valantis from Stan Stef.
We are hoping to see you all again sometime in September, the plan is to drive down through Switzerland and Italy taking as long as we wish, and to find a room when we arrive.
To sum up Independently or Package we choose the option that suits us at the time.
Love to you, Litsa and Bebis. See you soon
Julie & Graham.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: BeckyB on August 13, 2008, 10:24:59 AM
We've done both but having travelled independantly the last time in May, we definately prefer this method & are looking to do this again when we head back in September.
It takes a little more time perhaps & you've got to dig about a bit to really track down the best deals etc, but I quite like that aspect of it & despite being based in Bristol & having to travel to Gatwick to fly out on Easyjet last time - we still saved ourselves about £95.00.
From here on in, I think we will continue to travel to Arillas this way.
BeckyB :-)
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Shuey on August 13, 2008, 10:42:53 AM
We haven't been this year but all previous visits have been package deals with Thomsons staying at bardis Sun with Dorita.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Aly on August 13, 2008, 10:55:49 AM
Hiya Dimitris
I book independently as you know, as the package deals generally on offer aren't conducive for the lone-traveller what with the single supplement malarky its downright robbery!!! Saying that you'll all be thinking well there is the taxi transfer too to consider - well yes, but after summing it all up over the years, it's still beneficial for the singletons to do it that way, well me anyway.

Saying that, it may have its disadvantages too and I'm referring to this latest outward bound Air Malta flight I'm booked on. I seem to have convinced myself (that's after reading the forum), that this flight is not going to takeoff on time/not take off at all!!!!! XL won't give me any information about it at the moment saying its too early to tell. I tried 'pretending' to book the same flight online the other day and guess what ... nothing/it didn't show?! So it could either be full or doesn't exist, in which case I've been robbed and won't know anything until I get to the airport. My next task is to ring XL direct and see if the actual flight is 'full'. I thought holidays were supposed to be relaxing lol? If I get there, it will certainly be worth it.

I won't be happy until I'm up in the air on my way to Corfu.

Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: kes on August 13, 2008, 11:26:18 AM
booked independently last 2 years...usually fly with XL ...no paticular reason as it can cost less to book a package..and you have more protection against mishaps...may rethink as the flight situation is not getting any better...not from the North anyhow!!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: lynwill53 on August 13, 2008, 11:44:00 AM
As a single traveller I've had some really good deals from Olympic in the last few years. Just booked to come to Arillas (Thetis) for 2 wks at end of August and the eventual discount was bigger than the final price of less than £250 (and that includes flight meals and 20kg luggage)

I very much doubt I could do separate flights, plus transfers and independantly booked accommodation for that sort of money, and you've got tour operator and rep support if you need it.

Trouble is, if people stop using the tour operators, they will stop going there!!! Not a good outcome for anybody.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: harold on August 13, 2008, 11:56:22 AM
For 2008 we did a package with Thomas Cook,had a few problems while in Arillas but most people know about them now.Thomas Cook gave us back £70 so have no complaints about them,they did the correct thing by us.
2009 we are coming independantly flying from Exeter with First choice airways booked through Thompsons and staying at Poppy and Spiros room 13 i believe cost a lot more than a package due to the flight costs,£583 but still worth it to come home.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: blondegirl on August 13, 2008, 11:58:37 AM
Hi Dimitris!

We booked EJ this year for September, then followed Martins example and phoned Dorita at Bardis Sun Hotel for accommodation, I also sent a confirmation letter.  I will phone her in a couple of weeks to arrange for a taxi pick up... no problems so far!

We have saved a bit by doing it this way this year but not a lot!

Looking forward to seeing you all again soon.

sue x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Peckedhen on August 13, 2008, 12:02:00 PM
Came on a package the first time (allocated on arrival, which is how we discovered Arillas), since have booked direct with various airlines. I email The Marina Hotel and Vasilis (Billy) books the rooms and arranges the transfer for us. With his generous support and help, we have never felt the need for the 'backup' of a tour operator.

Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: ger on August 13, 2008, 12:34:36 PM
hi dimitris, we have been through a tour company first time was thomson and next 2 were thomas cook, did try last time to travel independantly but the flights only were just too expensive, it was much cheaper to come on a package. not ideal i know as i don't think the tour companies pay the hotel owners a great deal.
ger x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Sandy x on August 13, 2008, 12:52:42 PM
Easyjet online x 4.....look forward to seeing you on Monday evening Dimitri. Please could you save me a table....or a corner and a chair? xx
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: jebbo on August 13, 2008, 01:39:44 PM
Hi Dimitris,

Between 1991 and 2005 we always came with Manos on a package and stayed at the Rainbow.

For the last 3 years (including this year) we have travelled independantly and have stayed twice with you at the Brouklis and this year at Anna studios.

Don't think I could go back to using packages again now.

Be back again in October :-)


Jebbo
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Dave n Anne on August 13, 2008, 03:06:13 PM
Hi Dimitris

This year was our 7th visit and we have always booked with Manos , but for next year we have booked our flights seperately and have booked to stay with Phil at the Tria when we were there in July . It is costing about the same as a package but we are there for 9 full days instead of the 6 you get on a package so to me it is well worth it .

Yammas

Dave n Anne
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: gillian on August 13, 2008, 03:28:25 PM
booked a flight on XL for £34 from Manchester and staying with St Stef travel who will organise our taxi and return flight .Accomodation is Theos in St Stef the BEST place to stay, we get to eat with a real Corfiot family attend their celebrations and are made to feel like family. We always used Manos but this way is so much better and flexible. We spend at least 16 weeks there and love every minute of it. Coming back on 25th August for 6 weeks and on countdown!!!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: TerryW on August 13, 2008, 05:13:01 PM
Hi Dimitris,

We booked independently this year and have done the same for next year in July. It is more expensive, but you have more control over your flights and accommodation. It is also nice to know that you are making payment directly to the Hotel owner and bypassing the tour operators. 

TerryW
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Jennifer Ferguson on August 13, 2008, 05:17:02 PM
Flight only from Glasgow for the two of us -£641
Package to Marvel on bed and breakfast,including coach transfers £660.
Package usually works out better for us as there are few 'cheap' flights from Glasgow or Edinburgh,
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: vivian on August 13, 2008, 05:23:43 PM
Have just booked with T.C. 1 week in Perry and Jimmy's. 15kg luggage & meals & transfers £536. Have booked independently for 2 weeks in May with Poppy & Spiro 20kg luggage & meal accomadation & taxi to pay flight has cost £568. Viv.
p.s. Harold your in room 12.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Mango on August 13, 2008, 06:03:19 PM
We booked this year package deal with Thomas Cook at Mirage.

Next year booked package deal via internet with Thomson staying at Kaloudis.

Amanda
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Aly on August 13, 2008, 06:26:06 PM
It would also be interesting to see how the North - South comparison in prices.

Me sees there are oodles of choices flying out of Gatwick etc and us up north pay lots more wonga.

Huh!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Janis on August 13, 2008, 06:50:48 PM
We went to Arillas last year, and have booked for next year also - both times booked online through Thomson. We're staying at the Kaloudis again and looking forward to seeing our old friends again!
It's costing us £572 for 2 weeks from Leeds Bradford, decent flight times, including in flight meals and transfers.  That's for both of us... tight Yorkshire folk!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Mango on August 13, 2008, 07:25:27 PM
Cost us for next year, staying at Kaloudis and booking through Thomson online fourteen hundred for my partner, my dad, my daughter and me for two weeks, flights and transfers included.

Amanda
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Linsey on August 13, 2008, 07:31:38 PM
Hello

We travelled from Glasgow with Thomsons a few weeks ago on a package deal to the Mathraki. We had a great two weeks and couldn't have gone any cheaper booking independently. The flight times and transfers were also excellent - airport was not busy in either direction. It seems that the majority of the English flights leave around the same time on a Friday but our Scottish one was at a quieter time.
It was our first time to Arillas and I'm sure it will not be our last.
I will post a report of our holiday soon with a few pictures.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Mango on August 13, 2008, 07:46:13 PM
Sorry I forgot to mention that is from Manchester Airport.

AManda
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: PaulnMaria on August 13, 2008, 08:50:59 PM
Over the years we have travelled to Arillas using both package holidays (Thomas Cook/CorfuEscape) and independant travel. This year we booked independantly for our May visit as we could not get a package holiday for single travellers (we brought mum along) and the price of the flights was not too bad. We have booked a package holiday for September as flight only was very expensive from the north of England (Jet2 will have finished flying from Newcastle by that time) and the poor exchange rate has increased the cost of independant holiday accommodation this year. However package holidays also seem to have increased in price dramatically this year, again this may be due to the exchange rate but also depends on date of travel. Booking our same holiday package travelling 3 days later would have cost us an extra £170 per person!! 
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Bruce on August 13, 2008, 08:59:26 PM
Hi Dimitris
              We booked package because we wanted to stay at the Mirage and it is only avalible with Thomas Cook, (we booked last year within 8 hours of stepping off the plane)

See you in 2 weeks

Bruce and Lynne
xxxx
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: M n M on August 13, 2008, 10:02:05 PM
Dimitris,
            Since we found the Tria Adelphia we have gone with whichever operator they were with first Thompsons then Manos. We now use a taxi from Arillas to pick us up from the airport.
Since the upheaval this year and the problems caused (flight times, charging for 3rd person in a 2 bedded studio and not giving correct information etc) we are now having to change our holiday destination for next year.
No you are not going to get rid of us but we will be coming independent and will be looking for 4 to 6 weeks accommodation for next year when we come over in October.
If anyone sees an oldish nearly bald fellow on crutches or in a wheelchair, give him your best price for accommodation you just might make me a bit happier.
See you as I am hopping about after 29th September, Mick.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: robinm on August 13, 2008, 10:51:31 PM
Hi Dimitris

We booked very late through Olympic and got a very good deal at the Thetis palace. We thought Arillas was fantastic and understand why people return year after year. You have a very special place and we will definitely visit again.

RobinM
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: keith(geezer) on August 13, 2008, 10:57:49 PM
me and the wife booked with thomson we booked next year`a with thomson
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Flynns on August 13, 2008, 11:35:40 PM
Hi Dimitris,

This is our 3rd time, we have done both but this time it was cheaper for the package.  I did contact Gallini direct as you gave me their email but is was more expensive than the package deal which I thought a bit strange, not sure if they had decided to go with Olympic at the time of enquery. Plus there is 12 of us so a bit of a hand full when booking flights.  Look forward to seeing you soon,  2 more sleeps to go !!

Suzanne
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Wendy n Stu on August 13, 2008, 11:50:17 PM
Hi.  We booked via Corfu Escape in 08, accommodation only and then booked flights via an internet site.  It worked well and Nancy arranged transport from the airport & return.  For 2009 we have booked independently and paid £429 in total for 2 x flights (daytime) from Manchester to Corfu.  18 May 09 so over the Bank Hol when we would expect it to be a bit dearer.  Hope this helps.  W & S. xx  PS Got flight via www.flightline.co.uk and you only have to pay a £150 deposit no matter how many in party, balance 12 weeks before you fly.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Bet on August 14, 2008, 01:24:22 AM
We booked direct with the Bardis family and booked our flightwith" Dial a Flight",sometimes its with Excel but this June it was with Thomson Flights  from Newcastle and long may it continue!!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Marymary on August 14, 2008, 09:23:34 AM
Hi
I booked my 1st holiday this year in May independently, with the help of Martin-W who gave me the contact for Dorita at Bardis Sun Hotel and she was to book the taxi too, sadly due to my panic and trouble contacting her via phone I changed my plans and rang Spriros directly at the Porto fino and booked a room there. I booked  my flight with Thomson fly , but like Martin ( as that holiday was meant to be solo) rang their call centre direct, as on their websitte you couldn't book a solo flight, strange cause I was on the same flight as if I had not booked solo. Our second holiday coming up on 5th september booked a package with Thomson staying at the Mathraki and that was simply because to book an independant flight was as much as the whole package cost
Take Care
Mary
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justlynn on August 14, 2008, 01:31:24 PM
Hi Dimitri,

For out first visit we booked package last year for Kokinos, and while there we booked Bardis Sun Studio for this year which was package too as we had to go through Corfu Escape.

Next year we will book independently with Poppy and Spiro.  We both prefer to do this when we can.  We fly from Gatwick, so this year it was with easyjet, and will be on future visits most probably too.
yammas,
lynn and colin xx
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Vaughan & Angie on August 14, 2008, 07:35:14 PM
Hi Dimitris this time around we booked independantly, it was relatively easy the accommodation was amazing value although the flights were a bit pricey, that is what you get for using regional airports I guess.  We look forward to meeting you again when we arrive on 1 September.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: patrickjohn on August 14, 2008, 07:47:41 PM
Hi Dimitris
For 2007 at the Horizon we had a package holiday with Libra using a travel agent.
This year, 2008, we has a package holiday with Thomsons at Kaloudis Village.  Booked it online, and for the first time also included taxi transfer.  This worked well.
Best wishes
Pat
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Jersey Bean on August 14, 2008, 09:03:16 PM
We went to the Kaloudis Village with Thomson this year and it was brilliant.  I could not fault anything.  We have previously stayed at  the Rainbow with Manos also excellent and next year we have booked independently to stay at the Marina and I can't wait !!!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Jo Wissett on August 14, 2008, 10:09:43 PM
We have done both over the last 11 years but for the last 6 we have been booking independently.  The main reason for this is that we are particular about wanting our apts and they are only available independently.  Another reason is that it works out a lot cheaper for us being a family of 5.  We average about £1500-£1700 for the flights +accomm for 2 weeks.  A package would put at least a grand on top of this.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Paul D on August 14, 2008, 11:55:34 PM
Next years holiday was a package deal to Kaloudis with Thomson from Gatwick. Two weeks for £637. Pretty good, I think.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Anne on August 15, 2008, 12:29:10 AM
Our holiday for October 2008 cost £644 for the two of us from Thomson flying from Doncaster - staying at Kaloudis - includes transfers too - so we think this is a really good price. Anne and Phil
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: harold on August 15, 2008, 12:58:23 AM
So whats the score so far.
thanks Viv room 12 it is then
Title: Are: Independently or Package?
Post by: Ang on August 15, 2008, 01:06:35 PM
The last 4yrs we have gone independant always worked out a bit cheaper, but this year we took a package with Thomsons, but then decided to change accommodation and stayed at Horizon, all in all it only added an extra £80 from booking flights and accommodation independent total cost approx£640 but well worth it
Ang
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: angiem on August 15, 2008, 01:48:14 PM
We always travelled independantly up until a couple of years ago, but now the cost of flights only (Leeds/Liverpool/Manchester) are so expensive, we go 'Package' purely because of the cost.
We still prefer to go independant when we can afford to, to give the accommodation owners their rightful share of the money, if nothing else.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: annie on August 15, 2008, 09:36:24 PM
Hi Dimitris
We booked a package with thomson as it was cheaper than trying to do it independantly. As we have to go in school holidays we will save the direct bookings for when we can travel more freely
Annie
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Glenny on August 16, 2008, 01:48:33 PM
First time last Sept was a package with Manos to stay at Kokkinos, this year we booked independently as we wanted 9 nights.
Glenda
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: sheila on August 16, 2008, 02:22:54 PM
we booked a package with Manos now Thomson, staying at the Rainbow, flying out 8th Sep. We book online oureselves every year  and have never had a problem.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Chris & Mark's mum on August 24, 2008, 12:44:47 AM
Independent every time!

2006 and 2008 we flew Manchester to Corfu but we have booked our 2009 flight from Leeds/Bradford (6 minutes drive from our house)  We have paid a lot more for the flights from LBA than we did from Manchester but I'd rather fly with Thompsons from LBA that flippin Air Malta from mucky airport Manchester! (In a very old MD plane too! UGH!)

We stay at Dimitra Studios.....LOVE 'EM!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: wayne on August 26, 2008, 02:46:46 AM
stayed at marvel on a package with thomas cook.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: jean on August 26, 2008, 12:14:26 PM
Hi Dimitris
We've been to Kaloudis twice, booked a package through Thomsons. For our last visit in May we booked directly with Anna via email and got a flight with Monarch. Apart from a long delay on the return journey it was all very easy and stress free, especially being met at the airport by Tasos. Like Terry we prefered this method as we know Anna benefits directly. Hoping to do the same the again May09 but watching the flight prices and hoping that Joe is right and the cost may come down a bit.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Karen/Colin on August 26, 2008, 03:15:54 PM
Hi Dimitris,

 we have booked a package every year, first 2 years through manos, this years & next years through Thomas Cook.
I got a Thomas Cook on-line price for 2 weeks at Perry & Jimmys next July then went into travel agents to see if they could better the price, & they did, for me, hubby & daughter who will be classed as an adult next year it was about £1400 which was much cheaper than this year.
We paid over £2000 this year but there were 4 of us(although my daughter qualified for a 'free' childs place) & we went during the summer hols. Next we are going on 6th July.

Only about 40 weeks to go now!!

I need to update my ticker!

Karen
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: emeralddragons on August 30, 2008, 01:08:07 AM
Hello Dimitris,
We are great believers in independent travel, but Finland is far away from almost anywhere, and for less frequented destinations, package tours may be not only the cheapest, but also the only direct flights available. So we shall be back in Arillas this autumn on a Finnmatkat package holiday.
    In November 2008, EasyJet will establish itself in Finland. We do not yet know what possibilities EasyJet may offer, but certainly hope they will make it easier for us to book independently in the future. Meanwhile, we are thrilled to be back in Arillas soon. 
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: dorothy on September 02, 2008, 10:14:25 PM
Hi Dimitris

This year we booked independently.  We booked flights early at £220 each( good as we fly from Belfast) and accommodation at the Marina.  Total price was probably a bit cheaper than a package holiday and we much prefer to holiday this way.  We then wanted an extra week and managed to change our outgoing flight for £70 each.  We spent that extra week at the Portofino. Accommodation in both places was excellent and we love a beach front location-Arillas is just such a perfect place.

Dorothy
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Sammy1 on September 12, 2008, 10:04:02 PM
I have booked independently the last few years, I have found it works out cheaper.  I tend to stay in the same private apartment.  It has a fantstic view of the coast as it is up the hill. Booked flights through thomson ths year, XL last year, won't be using them again then if they have gone bust.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Valdasteve on September 14, 2008, 03:33:23 AM
This year= first year and most probably not the last from what we've seen on this site- booked late hols with Manos. and 1 week later found they'd got taken over by Thos. Cook. We usually book independently, but this time around the prices were so much better than independent, for the type of place we wanted to be, ie Arillas. we just couldn't say no to the good price.  Just a question of where you want to be and whether you've dropped lucky. We did but only by one week . after which the tour ops all increased their prices or gave no availability for Arillas. Looks to me like Arillas is booked up from 22 September or the internet sites do not want to give uo
 this gem- would be very angry to have paid  so much more a year or so ago in brochure prices , otherwise would have done it independently
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: kevin.g on October 24, 2008, 10:23:16 PM
i think the year coming is going to prove a task for all, as package is sometimes cheaper,but so what ,,lets just all get there ,some how ,and spend our dosh through-out the resort...it wiil be hard for famiies,as the cost goes up ..so pull your belts in now ,,,get over xmas.. and go for it....remember,arillas is special to many ,and if you  dont get there nex year ,it will still be there in 2010....yammas to all...
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on October 25, 2008, 05:08:09 AM
You're right kevin -
Quote
the year coming is going to prove a task for all

Well, assuming that it will stay the same is idiotic. Even the Coconut has to make money.  We all assume that that these facilities are always going to be there.

I can dance in their bar and chat up their customers, but in the end they have to make money. (Kostas, Hannah - can you remember PhilandJen dancing and drinking vodka frappe??? and Cher??? I just adored dancing with you Hannah. You follow really well. I so enjoyed that evening.) Len Goodman would have given us "10."

Arillas as a hoilday resort is more perfect than most of the others. Honest naturists the world over would love it's laid back attitude. COME HERE and be honest true and undeniable, Arillas is heaven on earth

Phil



Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: vivian on October 26, 2008, 07:34:27 AM
As you know Pete and I are already booked independently for May 2009. I was messing about on line yesturday and went on to Manos site where I saw a 2 week holiday for exactly the same flights same dates and the whole thing was £2 cheaper then our flight. These things do happen but it will proberly be more expensive nearer the time and if you need to travel on a special date then you get it booked no matter what and at least we havent got to save up anymore ready for our special holiday so dont have to worry about that. I wouldn't want to say which is better. I think it depends whats happerning at the time you book. Viv
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: harold on October 29, 2008, 04:16:56 PM
Complete agreement with Viv
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: donna@colin on November 09, 2008, 12:10:27 AM
would like to book independent but have booked t cook as flights are so dear if doing seperate
regards colin
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Gina on November 09, 2008, 04:37:31 PM
have booked package deal as flights alone were omly £200 cheaper than whole holiday will be staying in akti this time always done self catering before so looking forward to this one
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: mr_ccurtis on March 08, 2009, 07:11:49 PM
Hi Dimitris,
                We have booked two weeks in May at Mirage , and two weeks in September at Marvel , both booked through thomas cook as the flights alone booked independantly would cost more than the package holiday not counting the transfers and insurances, Yes we would like to go independant and support the local economy more,   but the price difference is to grate.
                                   Chris and Sandra....
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: kes on March 08, 2009, 09:12:06 PM
The only way to beat the package prices is to book easyjet at least 7 or 8 months before you travel..and even then its a close run thing when you add in the Taxi transfers & the state of the Euro....
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: dave mull on March 08, 2009, 09:40:44 PM
hi dimitris
we booked via email with alex and stella for three weeks in aug we fly with easyjet which we booked as soon as the said they were flying from manchester at a price of £170.00 each with was a great price although they have shot up now
see you all in aug yehaaaa
dave mulligan
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Lindypops on March 09, 2009, 12:17:04 AM
You`re right there Kes. Pound for pound, you have to shop around.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: ColinD on May 10, 2009, 11:30:11 AM
We always prefer to book independently, so that our money goes to the local people rather than a British travel company, but if a package was much cheaper and it meant the difference between being able to afford to go, or not................
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: alex on May 10, 2009, 10:06:31 PM
this is the first year we are doing inderpendent, we have been able to get good priced flights, up to now we have always done package.
we know where we are staying. its somethink we have planned to do for years but have never been able to beat the package price. hopefully  we will be able to carry on doing it inderpendently
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: adamcal on July 15, 2009, 02:19:16 PM
AS A FIRST TIME VISITOR TO ARILLA'S WE BOOKED INDEPENDENTLY ANYWAY AS WE SAW VILLA LINAKIS ON THE WEB ,WE ARE PLANNING TO COME BACK TO ARILLA'S IN 2011 AND WHERE POSSIBLE WOULD LIKE TO BOOK INDEPENDENTLY HAVING MADE SOME INITIAL ENQUIRIES IT MAY WORK OUT CHEAPER THAT WAY FOR US .FROM MARTHA LONGMUIR
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on July 17, 2009, 02:20:56 AM
Martha, your hosts at Linakis are very special people. The villa is looked after by some other very special people who live in Kavaddades. Why not 2010? I would be there later this year in 2009.

In fact I wish it were next week....

Eileen meluvver, and Keith, we are so sad we've only managed such a short time together. but love you both anyway
Phil
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on July 17, 2009, 02:22:15 AM
BTW forum pic needs changing. Much more beautilful in real life
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: sharonF on July 17, 2009, 11:32:16 AM
Are you Phil?  Negg, is phil more beautiful in real life??

Sharon x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: adamcal on July 17, 2009, 03:20:24 PM
HI "JUSTPHIL" 2010 HOLIDAY HAD ALREADY BEEN BOOKED FOR FLORIDA OR WE WOULD HAVE BEEN BACK TO ARILLA,S BUT FLORIDA WAS PROMISED . BUT 2011 WILL SEE US DEFINITELY BACK TO ENJOY THE HOSPITALITY IN ARILLA'S FROM MARTHA (ADAMCAL)
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on July 19, 2009, 11:23:33 AM
Ha ha Sharon. It's my life that is beautiful, not me!!!

I meant Eileen.....
Phil
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Janis on July 21, 2009, 03:30:54 PM
I've just looked on Easyjet's website - flights from Manchester average £150 return in October.  Not bad... wish we had the extra pennies and we'd be there in a flash!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Veteran on July 29, 2009, 03:45:14 PM
We have just returned from Arillas, we always use package holidays as it works out less expensive than making independant arrangements - our 7 night holiday with T Cook - flights, transfers & accomodation - cost was less than the price of 2 return flights!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: blondegirl on July 31, 2009, 12:31:39 AM
We noticed that this year.

We are desparately trying to find something for 6 adults next year... might be our last holiday abroad with my parents... mum has always wanted a villa with pool, I would like Arillas, has to be near a beach and with 3/4 bedrooms.. 1 dble and at least 1 twin, can we find it?... quite difficilt to fit all the criteria... then we have to get the flights..  I can see it is not going to be that easy which is why I am starting now with a shortlist!   Otherwise it might have to be a package for so many of us.  If it was just the two of us it wouldnt matter we are spoilt for choice.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: adamcal on July 31, 2009, 12:45:42 AM
HI BLONDEGIRL WE WERE IN ARILLAS THIS YEAR AT VILLA LINAKIS WHEN ARE YOU PLANNING TO GO IT MIGHT BE WORTH A LOOK AT www.villalinakis.com WE STAYED THERE THIS JUNE/JULY AS IT PROBABLY BE THE LAST HOLIDAY WITH MY NIECE ANDS ON THEY ARE GETTING THAT THEY DONT WANT TO TRAVEL WITH THE "OLDIES" WE HADA  GREAT TIME ALL OF US  DEFINATELY WORTH A LOOK   FROM MARTHA
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: blondegirl on August 01, 2009, 12:25:04 AM
I did look at Eileens place but it is a tad too far for mum and dad to walk to the beach and restaurants and we dont want to hire a car, scooter might be fun though!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: adamcal on August 01, 2009, 01:10:57 PM
YES THATS A PITY BECAUSE IT'S AN EXCEPTIONAL VILLA,WHAT ABOUT A HOTEL LOADS OF REVIEW'S ABOUT THE MARINA RIGHT ON THE BEACH FROM MARTHA (ADAMCAL)
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Sandy x on August 01, 2009, 01:12:58 PM
Or Marinaki where Jo goes? You could have a couple of apartments and there is a pool there. Also just opposite the beach.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: karenansell1 on August 23, 2009, 11:20:33 AM
hi dimitri...tried to book independant as we have done before with noula in san stef...this time we couldn't get flights cheaper than the package deal with olympic..still, it's all been very last minute and looking forward to staying in arillas even now i find that our accomodation isn't ideal for wheelchair users !!!!
see you in september
karen
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: graham on August 29, 2009, 01:59:53 PM
We found that for a late deal this year we had to book independently because the package deals didn't offer what we wanted. We booked flights with Thomsons and booked the Marina hotel, we've never stayed there before but my wifes parents are coming and her dad has some walking difficulty so we wanted to be near to everything.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: sharonF on August 29, 2009, 05:08:54 PM
Snap Graham, thats what we are doing in september, worked out cheaper than the package deal.

Sharon x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: kes on August 30, 2009, 02:54:52 PM
We found the opposite .... package worked out better value  in september ,but independent  better value next May... All depends were you are flying from.time of year..how far ahead (or late )you book..cost of accomodation,Taxi transfer etc etc...

Just Book ....
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Jimtheswim on September 26, 2009, 02:09:18 PM
Arillas getting pricey for independent travel. Flight from Glasgow (no competition) was £300 each with 100 euro round taxi trip plus accomodation it all came to £1,000. But then we have to buy all our meals on top of that although prices in the restaurants wern't too bad and the wine cheap!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on September 21, 2011, 06:50:30 PM
Hi all,
New member here so be gentle with me !
We booked 3 flights with Easyjet from Manchester , with  accommodation through Thomas Cook for £960 , including return taxi (booking independantly again) and aircon !  Over the moon with that as the same holiday through an operator (transfer by coach aswell and not taxi) would have been £300 more for two weeks next August. I will be posting and asking plenty of questions between now and then even though the "new bus route" forum discussion scared me a bit !!! he he. I am sure most of you don't bite !
Cheers
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on September 21, 2011, 07:20:36 PM
Welcome Truth. Forum is a great way to get information because between the regular contributors, we've seen everything, done everything, and probably even got all the T-shirts. The bus route saga was not exactly the best introduction, and not at all the norm. Best forgotten.

We always go independent - we book our flights immediately Easy Jet release them, then arrange accommodation. For example, our three weeks next July/August will come in at about 800 GBP for both of us (flights, accomm and taxi.) Our week this October will be about 400. But you can still sometimes get packages for less, in which case we take them.

Best wishes
Phil
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: sharonF on September 21, 2011, 07:27:04 PM
Hi Truth,

That is a great deal you've managed to get!  We go independent, mostly because we can choose exactly where we want to stay, what time we get there, etc, sometimes its cost more, sometimes less.  But we prefer that way.  Where are you stayin, if you dont mind me being nosey!
Sharon x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: patrickjohn on September 21, 2011, 07:33:12 PM
Good to have you on board the Forum, Truth.  Hope you enjoy reading all our varied opinions.
Have not been brave enough to try independent booking yet - just seems Thomsons are so convenient and if trouble crops up you have a representative there ready to sort things out.  Perhaps Phil could undertake sorting out bookings for us as well as he and Jen!!!
By the way taxi rides are always an adventure for us.  Sometimes we've been quite frightened by taxi drivers high speed jinks round all the bends.  This time we went from Corfu Airport to Arillas in a battered old Ford, but the taxi for our trip back to the airport was a beatiful new Mercedes with leather seats, aircon, window blinds (to shut out the lightning!) and a very considerate careful driver.
Best wishes
Pat
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: martin-w on September 21, 2011, 07:40:52 PM
Welcome to the forum Truth. I'm sure you will get to know us all soon. Lots of help and information is always available, don't be afraid to ask or send a personal message if you like.
Patrick, that 'posh' taxi sounds like Stamatis' new Merc. He picked me up from the airport in May. Very nice, felt like royalty!
Yammas,
Martin.
Title: Re: Independently or Package?
Post by: Ang on September 21, 2011, 09:09:30 PM
Truth - false teeth are a blessing - no bite, welcome aboard the Arillas train where it takes you is up to you, but one thing is for certain you will enjoy the ride,we are in the main all simple folk who enjoy a little bit of Corfu thats called Arillas.
Ang
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: kevin.g on September 21, 2011, 09:54:06 PM
i remember mums first visit we landed at 10pm,and the taxi driver thought he was stirling moss,the look of fright on mums face as we went up and over the hills in the  agros area,,lol......yammas same flight time next year ,,,hehe
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: patrickjohn on September 21, 2011, 10:03:56 PM
I like the way the taxi drivers listen to their music choice while at the same time chatting on their handsfree mobile phone.  Our latest one was also holding a second mobile phone to his ear and responding to that.  Meanwhile they seem to negotiate all the bends without any bother - at least we haven't had one doing all that and smoking at the same time.
Kevin: I think we've had your Mum's driver once or twice!!
When one of them went through the Skipero traffic light at red he told me he knew he had two minutes to get through before the one at the other end of the village went green - he nearly flew through!
Regards
PJ
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on September 21, 2011, 10:11:24 PM
Thanks for all of the replies, I am not quite as scared now!!! We're staying in Tria Adelphi. Great reviews on Tripadvisor.  Corfu is our 12th Greek island and we have visited Anaxos in Lesvos many times.....we are hoping for a similar experience in Arillas.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on September 21, 2011, 11:02:08 PM
Tria Adelphia has a great reputation. Owned and run by Philip and Helen, it is situated in the quieter end of the village (nowhere is far in Arillas if you have legs that work though) and has a nice pool. We know folk who won't stay anywhere else. Good food available (ie full scale delicious meals rather than the more limited but just as good pool-bar menus.) Look it up on the interactive map on this website.

Arillas is itself and proud of it. There is a huge selection of tavernas, and many provide top-of-the range food at amazingly good prices. It has two dedicated bars which can be controversial but cater for the "louder" parts of holiday activities if wanted. Or there are many places for a quiet, romantic evening watching the sunset. The beach is sandy, a mile long, and changes with the weather. It is special. Naturism is tolerated (but unofficial) at the North end beyond the rock outcrop. But you probably won't even notice unless you walk there. You will see many families enjoying the majority of it.

You can tell how much Jen and I love being there. I hope that's how it works out for you. There are hundreds like Phil and Jen who feel the same. We can't answer the comparison - we have never been to Anaxos or Lesbos for the simple reason we always return to Arillas.

Phil


Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on September 21, 2011, 11:40:08 PM
To be honest the place sounds like just what we're looking for. I just hope there are a few kids about to keep our 7 year old daughter amused when she gets bored with us ! Both sets of our parents are coming out for the second week so we may have a couple of nights out alone,,, we may even visit the "controversial" bars then ! We may even be able to stay out until midnight ! WOW!  We're not night time people as a rule although we do like a drink, well me more than the better half!
Mythos and ouzo mezes,,,,,,, nice !
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on September 22, 2011, 12:11:53 AM
Sounds like it, and Tria will provide all of what you say. Try mythos and ouzo mezes at Graziella. We often while away an afternoon there.

Arillas is totally family oriented, and I am sure your 7 year old will soon find holiday friends. Ours are 30 (twins) so not quite the same issues for us! But we love seeing kids having fun, and we see a lot of that in Arillas.

The two bars are Malibu and Coconut. Nearly next door to each other, but different. Both are noisy (hence the controversy) but both provide a service to a large number of Arillas visitors. Including us two.

Keep asking, we'll keep answering.
Phil
 
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Val n Bill on September 22, 2011, 09:57:14 AM

Hi Truth..... Having been to Arillas in 2002 we spent quite a few holidays in lots of Greek islands trying to match the experience. One of which was Anaxos, Lesvos. I would say that they are very similar but very different.
Arillas is much friendlier and much more laid back, the shape of the village is like Anaxos, ie.U shaped, walk up one road, keep going and your back at the beach but a little more spread out. You can also walk to a few other villages very easily, the beach is nicer as well.
In all the years we have been visiting Greece (30+) we have never met people as welcoming. You will really enjoy Tria Adelphia, although we have never stayed there we often stop for a coffee with the wonderful family that own it. At every place you eat or drink you will receive the same warm welcome.
Please check out all sections of the forum for anything you need to know, ask and somebody will be able to answer.

                  Val x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on September 22, 2011, 12:53:38 PM
The decison to holiday here is sounding better with every post ! Thanks all !
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: sharonF on September 22, 2011, 05:52:12 PM
Truth, this is link is to a report i did on Tria's apartments when we stayed there, you will love it there.

http://www.arillas.com/forum/index.php/topic,2580.msg27756.html#msg27756

Sharon
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on September 22, 2011, 06:01:46 PM
Sounds great ! We have a studio for the three of us. Do you think there will be enough room? Saying that we are not fussy as long as its clean , the beds are decent and the shower is good. We have done VERY basic Greek in the past !!!!!!!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: sharonF on September 23, 2011, 07:23:15 PM
Yes it was a studio we stayed in the sofa bed was the 3rd bed, there was plenty of room, dont miss the spit roast lamb on the sundaym, delicious!

Sharon x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on September 23, 2011, 11:20:37 PM
You can't beat a good spit roast !!!!! Is the bar at Tria open on an evening? Says daytime on Thomas Cook?
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: sharonF on September 24, 2011, 12:03:04 AM
Yes he is open all evening, philip and helen are really lovely people, you will feel like your sat at the bar with old friends.
Sharon x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Sandy x on September 24, 2011, 12:33:31 AM
Can't think of any bar in Arillas that isn't open in the evening. They usually stay open till the last person leaves....
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on September 24, 2011, 02:09:46 AM
exactly Sandy luvver.

We had dinner at Tria with Dave and Anne, their friends and JohntheRef and Dot one evening, and we stayed until very late nattering with Philip and Helen and family. Wonderful memories of that. There are records of it on the forum. We were last to leave, and walked back to the T junction with John and Dot. They walked up the hill to Christos, and we went in the Nut. We were staying at Anna Studios, but Jen couldn't do the hill without a pit stop. It was July 2008.

Truth, the truth is don't believe the tour operators' spiel, ask us lot. Then you might actually get the truth.

Phil
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on September 24, 2011, 12:15:51 PM
Its why I joined the forum for the Truth to be told ! I thought it was a strange thing for Thomas Cook to put in the brochure as I have never known a bar/taverna/restaurant shut early in Greece !
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: JohnTheRef&Dot on September 25, 2011, 05:29:41 PM
It was a good night Phil,
Dinner followed by getting to know each other.
None of us had ever met before and it was all arranged on the forum.

We had stayed at the Tria previously and Anne and Dave were regular visitors to the Tria

Was one of those Arillas moments, people meeting for the first time and feeling like they have been friends for years.

We have not seen Anne and Dave but Philip has mentioned them when we have been in to see him (as we do every holiday)

As for Phil Jen Dot and John we continue to meet in our favourite little village, An Holiday without a meal with Phil and Jen would not be quite the same. It has become our Annual pilgrimage to eat together at Brouklis
Good times and still more to come

Truth
You will love the Tria you will love the Hosts and most of all you will love Arillas

GOOD TIMES JULY 2008
(http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/918/sl370377.jpg)
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on September 25, 2011, 06:03:15 PM
Truth, the truth is I'm blubbing just remembering that fateful night at Tria. Sounds so strange, four couples who have never met, just connecting and having dinner together. The picture that dear friend John posted above says it all. Much water has flowed under bridges since then, but we are already booked on 14th July 2012 for our pilgrimage to Brouklis. And yes it was July 2008 in the picture.

I call it the Arillas Effect. John explains it: people meeting for the first time and feeling like they have been friends for years.

There are hundreds of us who are completely hooked. Hope it happens to you - it is a rather wonderful situation to be in.... Well I think so.

Phil
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on September 26, 2011, 12:11:06 PM
I'm sure we'll have a wonderful time ! It sounds like it would be hard NOT to !
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: westhampete on September 26, 2011, 01:15:10 PM
Aint that the Truth.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on September 26, 2011, 01:18:48 PM
The Truth IS out there !!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Paudman on June 23, 2012, 09:33:03 PM
I don't know what happened to the original topic (lol!) but we're once again having to book privately - almost the same price as last year, only £30 more expensive. There are two operators, Thomson and Falcon using the same flight and one is £500 cheaper than the other (for three of us of course) despite providing exactly the same service. When I went to enquire about flights Thomson was the higher by £500, when I actually went to book three days later Falcon was now the higher by the same amount, and Thomson had reduced by £500 and was actually £5 cheaper than the first quote... and this was three months ago so hardly last-minute.
Incidentally - out of three Travel Agents in my home town, one could not get any flights at all, one could get us the outward date but not the return date, or the other way round - but not both dates to suit - while the third had all dates available at £500 cheaper than any other quote. Confusing!! However... another week and we'll be back in Arillas again!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Rachel B on July 31, 2013, 12:24:33 AM
Hi Dimitris,

I booked my package holiday through Co-op Travel.
I have never booked independently before, for no other reason other than it's very straight forward. Everything is booked and paid for at the same time - gets things out of the way.
For next years holiday, i'll definitely look into booking independently

Rachel x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on July 31, 2013, 11:45:41 AM
It's such a shame the big tour operators take such a "big slice of the pie".  I prefer booking a package (for the reasons stated above) but husband's work shifts meant that we wanted to book leaving on a Saturday this year and doing it independently means that we can pick and choose flight date whereas packages tend to go on set days of the week - difficult when working sometimes.  However, I don't think there is a lot in it on the price (especially factoring in the taxis at say 55 Euros each way) but it does give us the chance to try somewhere new - Bardis Sun Studios - and very much looking forward to it. 

Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on July 31, 2013, 11:46:17 AM
And pleased to say my "ticker" worked!  Read all the tips and tried it out.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on July 31, 2013, 12:39:09 PM
Hope you like Bardis Sun Studios daisyday. Just back from our 3rd stay there, and now we stay there every summer. Already booked for next year....

PhilnJen
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on July 31, 2013, 01:12:06 PM
What are your dates for next year?  Luckily I booked about last Sept/Oct because I think they were nearly full then - they are very popular :-)  I'm sure we'll love it - they seem like genuinely nice people - as does everyone in Arillas - which makes us just keep wanting to go back for more!  Have been to quite a few other Greek Islands but nothing beats Arillas :-)
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on July 31, 2013, 02:39:53 PM
The hotel was very quiet the last week in May when we went past , there were a few more in the studios though
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on July 31, 2013, 03:45:47 PM
Daisyday, the same dates as this year - we arrange it with Poppy while we are there. You are so right about their popularity which speaks volumes about them. They had all but 100% occupancy for their entire season this year! Much of it was booked last year.

Truth, we saw the same. The hotel was very quiet for July, but apart from being next door and having the Bardis name, they are completely separate.

Phil
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on July 31, 2013, 03:49:27 PM
Probably won't see you then Phil.  We will probably return at the same time - mid two weeks of Sept.
Title: Re: Indepedently or Package?
Post by: Bella on July 31, 2013, 04:25:03 PM
I book independently every time as this gives the freedom to try a different accommodation on each visit and choose what time and day to fly. However, after more than 10 years of visiting (usually more than once a year) I have just about stayed everywhere lol I went to the Bardis Hotel for 3 weeks in June for the first time and have to say it was absolutely fantastic! The included breakfast - anything you like is cooked fresh for you when you order and is divine and oh that swimming pool! the best in Arillas if you are a serious swimmer like me and want to do 100 lengths non stop! I will be back in October for more of the same.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: martin-w on July 31, 2013, 04:41:16 PM
Hi Bella,
I must agree with you about the Bardis Hotel. I have been using it since 1999!
I too travel independently, and since I lost my wife, solo, knowing that Dorita and Aris will look after my every need, and no 'singles' charges'. I go twice a year now, May and September/October, looking forward to my next trip 'home', 27th. September-11th. October. Dorita even books my taxi which meets me at the airport as part of the personal service which is great, i know all the drivers now and they know me!
Might see you there?

Martin.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on August 01, 2013, 01:19:05 AM
Hi Phil,
I didn't realise that the two were totally separate entities. I suppose with them sharing the same name and being next door I just presumed they were under the same management.
Cheers
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: AJC51 on August 01, 2013, 10:45:50 AM
We always used to go package with Tommy Cook either from Birmingham, East Midlands or Gatwick but the prices jumped considerably and they started to ponse about with flight times and dates. Plus it was difficult to find accommodation for 3 adults with TC. Then there was the lottery coach transfer anything between 1 & 3 hours We then found out how much our hosts were getting from TC. We now go independent Easyjet from Luton book as soon as the flights go on sale and deal direct with the accommodation where we also get more choice. We also get 15 nights our daughter comes for a week or 10 days. Even with the taxi it works out about the same as a package and the locals get ALL THE MONEY they most definitely deserve.
 Our son and daughter have just returned from a week at Kaloudis with Thomson this was a last minute deal and good price, independent only lost out as the transfer was included against a taxi.
 We are lucky to live close to several airports and so Independent works for us but we understand every Arilliac is not so fortunate.

Al & Sal   
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: westhampete on August 01, 2013, 12:46:34 PM
We booked a package with Thompson staying at Kaloudis. May go independent with the Mirage next year though.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: harold on August 01, 2013, 01:18:58 PM
Having done both,there is not a lot in it from our point of view cost wise,though with our flights from Exeter it does work out more expensive Than a package.One good thing that was pointed out to us by Viv when at Corfu Airport for the return home,The package people have to queque outside,we dont we just say we are independant and walk straight in and wait for the check-in to open.
2 months and 4 days to go roll around October
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: GaryS on August 06, 2013, 05:47:35 PM
Our package cost us £760 from Newcastle to the Akti for 14 nights b&b in 2013. Next year looks like about £950, unless we grab a special deal weekend. I just priced next July to the Horizon (I know its a jump in quality) for 14 nights from Newcastle with Jet2 (no easyjet or Ryan Air from Geordie International. even based on the Horizons 2013 prices and using jet2s for 2014 it doubled the price of going with TC. Would love to try indie, but simply can't justify the price increase.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Ron and Sue on August 06, 2013, 06:32:26 PM
Have done both but by booking early we find it very hard to beat T.Cook packages.14 nights at Rainbow 2014 already booked .Still cannot find Akti on TC site for 2014                                                         Ron.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: GaryS on August 06, 2013, 06:37:52 PM
Akti appeared on TC site in last 5 days.

Gary
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on August 06, 2013, 06:39:06 PM
Gaz, there is a North/South divide going on. If we do package from Bristol it comes in at roughly the same price as indie, limited choice of accommodation and coach transfer instead of taxi. By booking our EJ flights as early as poss we may even save a little and get to stay where we want and transfer in 40 minutes (only 30 with the notorious Schumaker taxi driver, but with no hair left!)

The effect of many more properties going independent will be interesting, but as usual those in the North and Northern Ireland will be the losers. There is something wrong there. Eileen has been known to go to Gatwick from Scotland to get the right deal.

Phil


 
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on August 06, 2013, 06:42:37 PM
Just looking at prices for next Sept 2014.  I thought I saw Akti available for 2014 but booking from Gatwick if that makes any difference!

Trouble is, booking a package can be a good deal but flight times can sometime be rubbish and then when you select nicer flight times the price jumps up. But I noticed on looking at Thomson packages that you can deselect coach transfer for £60.  We would then book a taxi each way ourselves at 55 Euros - I know it costs more but would much prefer that - didn't realise we could deselect coach transfer for a discount.

But for us I can't get it much under £1,000 for a package for 2 weeks in Sept and then we would have to go Friday or Monday with Thomson.  At least with Easyjet you get the option of booking a day that suits, i.e. Saturday with my husband's shifts.

When we go in Sept this year for 12 nights our price is:
£430 for flights/baggage with Easyjet
300 Euros for 12 nights at Bardis Sun Studios (excellent value) and
55 Euros each way for taxi

That is still quite a bit cheaper and gives us the option of booking flights on days that suit and also choosing accommodation - quite restricting on the packages now as a lot of the apartments are going independent.

Mind you, I did book my flights with Easyjet about a year ago and was very daring, as booked flight out on release and then had to wait until return flights were available to book that leg of the journey!  So far booking independently has been really easy as everyone in Arillas is so helpful - I think Bobby at Bardis Sun Studios is going to book our taxi for us - so not too difficult.

So..... when are the Sept 2014 flights released with Easyjet!!?
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: GaryS on August 06, 2013, 06:45:28 PM
I know phil, us Northeners lose out again. It would have been cheaper for us to have booked the Akti with TC in 2013 got the transfers and just walked to the Horizon on arrival, rather than pay the £850 I was quoted with Jet2 with a year in advance. That simply can't be right in any universe.

Gary
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on August 06, 2013, 06:46:24 PM
PS: Has anyone got any other pricing for accommodation in Arillas for next year?  Would love to stay in Marinaki (think that is the one along from Kaloudis) but last Sept when I emailed them for this Sept they only had ground floor apartments available and think they were really expensive.  

What are the Marina apartments like or is it just as cheap to stay in the hotel?  Any comments on accommodation welcomed!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: GaryS on August 06, 2013, 06:48:31 PM
Oh and Jet2 from Newcastle, once a week on a Monday, so much for the Indie traveller.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Rachel B on August 06, 2013, 07:40:55 PM
Blimey Caroline.. £430 for 12 nights! - Co-op travel certainly saw me coming - i paid £516 for 7 days! :o
..and that was with a tenner knocked off for having 15kg luggage instead of 20!
Only cost me £530 for 2 weeks in Kefalos last year as well.. best do a bit of shopping around for next year!

Rachel x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Bella on August 06, 2013, 08:11:41 PM
Hi.
Have a look at Booking.com - sometimes comes out cheaper than booking direct with the hotels for some strange reason!! Hotel Akti and the Bardis Sun Hotel amongst others are on there - you don't pay anything until you arrive and its free to cancel or change your booking on most hotels listed so is ideal if you want to reserve accommodation and then get flights sorted. Also no fixed 7 or 14 days - book the amount of days you want I use them all the time and never had a problem - prices for 2014 are already on there.

Re flights - always use Avro.co.uk - never found cheaper!

And hire a car for 1 day and drive from the airport and stock up with booze at Lidl on the way! Car is then collected from your Arillas hotel the following day! see: www.corfuexplorecarhire.com

Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Bella on August 06, 2013, 08:16:16 PM
Total cost for 3 weeks in June this year flying from Birmingham staying at Bardis Sun Hotel on B & B basis including car hire for transfer lol £517 each.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on August 07, 2013, 10:15:58 AM
Wow, you did do well Bella.  I did look at Hotel.com yesterday but they didn't have dates for next Sept on there (I know, I do like to book ahead!!).

Well, for the 2 of us we don't think this holiday will cost for 12 days any more than £800-820 (if my Euro calculations are correct!) which is still cheaper than Thomson/Thos Cook prices for next Sept and with the choice of flight dates/accommodation - I think that is pretty good.  I am pricing up other accommodation for next year at the moment but I am hoping we are going to love Bardis Sun Studios as much as others on here do and, if so, we will pre-book them for next year as they were so helpful this year.   

We all seem to be addicts! 

Rachel - what did you think of Kefalos?  I know BlueHeather on here is a big fan!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on August 07, 2013, 12:41:27 PM
We enjoyed Kefalos when we went :-)
Pity Bardis Sun Studios only do studios and not appartments otherwise we would be in there like a shot.
Have been e mailing around for next May and have had lots of replies so we are just mulling over where to choose now ...........
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Rachel B on August 07, 2013, 04:32:34 PM
Caroline, I loved Kefalos! Went on a day trip there a couple of years ago, that's what made me book there last year.
Lovely and calm, quiet, not a lot going on but enough places to eat out at etc. Found prices there pretty reasonable as well.
Was a lovely relaxing 2 weeks, could just enjoy the island  because all the day trips on offer, i'd done in previous years in Kos.

Rachel x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Rachel B on August 13, 2013, 02:09:30 AM
What's the difference between the studios and apartments then Truth? I can't say i've really taken any notice of that really. Infact, i've heard many of the places i've been to being referred to as studio apartments..

I take it that apartments are bigger than studios then?

Rachel x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: ger on August 13, 2013, 01:30:13 PM
a studio is normally just one room, with bed, kitchenette and table and chairs all together and apartment has a separate bedroom, they normally advertise apt for 4 then if there is just 2 of you the travel agents charge an underoccupancy fee!!!
ger x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: kes on August 13, 2013, 02:07:05 PM
Our first few visits to Arillas back in 2002 - 2005 where packages but since then always independent..I feel the only way to better the package deals is to get Easyjet flights booked within days of them coming available..Acomodation prices are much the same everywhere..we got a great deal in April/May earlier this year but having not booked our sept/oct visit  flights earlier they  were double the cost..so get the flights booked  early and can work out a lot less expensive..
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: MicK-G on August 13, 2013, 08:34:20 PM
I've just got back from two weeks in Arillas and although I had a lovely time, travelling independently is just too expensive and not particularly good value. When you compare the service and the cleanliness of rooms in a package then Arillas has to do better. I won't be travelling to Arillas for my main summer holiday any time soon unless the room prices become more reasonable. Nearly £1000 for a room for two weeks is, in my opinion, too much.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Steph ~ on August 13, 2013, 09:03:52 PM
Where did you stay Mick? It sounds very expensive and not like you had a great time. I stay in Roula's apartments at Kaloudis, booked independently and it's 60 Euros per night for a 2 bedroom apartment, with aircon included & full, proper bathroom. It's all immaculate!  Last time I priced it up it was cheaper than the studios at the same site through Thomson, where aircon is extra too.  According to the survey last year, the vast majority of visitors book indpendently and keep on coming back.  It's the independent bookings that keep it going really so the owners have to to their best - but, like everything, you're bound to find the odd one or two that isn't up to scratch.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Rachel B on August 13, 2013, 09:06:03 PM
Mick G,

£1000! geez that's expensive! Where the heck did you stay?

I've been emailing a couple of placs
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Rachel B on August 13, 2013, 09:08:10 PM
*places for next year and they are priced at less than half that!

It's just the return flights i'm having trouble finding a good price for. Found an outward flight for £69.00!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Rachel B on August 13, 2013, 09:44:28 PM
ger,

There's usually only me travelling so i'm used to the under occupancy fees by now lol.
I'd rather not pay it of course but i'm not really fussed. I have always liked my accomodation, always been spacious and had everything i needed so i think of it as a little extra money well spent :-)
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: MicK-G on August 15, 2013, 09:32:24 AM
Hi, I just thought that I'd add some clarity to my post. My problem isn't with where we stayed. We did have a great holiday, I was just comparing the cost of a package holiday against that of travelling to Arillas. Where we stayed cost €800 for two weeks. I won't say who as, I don't wish to embarrass them, and their prices aren't too much higher than most. Current exchange rates are £713 for the room. Add to this the £1500 for the flights, £89 taxi transfers and £89 air conditioning then my holiday cost me £2390. I also spent £2000 over the course of he holiday for a family of four. I wasn't over extravagant, we ate lunch in our apartment most days and enjoyed evenings out. My issue was that I believe that the service is better when travelling on a package holiday. Linen is changed more frequently, clean towels in the bathroom every day. For what I spent I could go to a fairly decent all inclusive resort where I don't count the pennies. Also i always exchange my money in Arillas, this year I got a better exchange rate at M&S with the money i exchanged to take out with me. All of the exchanges charged 2% making this expensive.  I love my holidays in Arillas, I'm just not sure how much value there is to keep returning. There are some highlights that i would recomend, Kosta's on the beach, Coconuts had some great entertainment and we had some great nights in Whispers. The recession is world wide, we all are having to watch how we spend so I'm afraid that I will be going all inclusive next year.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: martin-w on August 15, 2013, 02:11:41 PM
I have found as a 'single' traveler, since I lost my wife, that it is cheaper for me to 'go independent'. Why? Well if you look at most 'package' deals there is a 'singles supplement' which immediately adds a whopping great lump to the cost. Several 'independent' establishments in Arillas are sympathetic towards single bookings, including the Bardis Hotel where I usually stay. I get a large well equipped room to myself at a very reasonable cost and breakfast included in the price! The other great thing about being independent is that your host gets all the cash, not a 'percentage with strings attached' that the companies dish out!
Of late the main cost increase is the air fare. not even the 'book early' tactic works these days. In May I traveled from Gatwick with Thomas Cook. At first I was disappointed with the fares I was quoted on-line. I did a bit of juggling of the dates and discovered that higher fares were attached to 'traditional' bookings, ie. 1 week, 2 weeks etc., however input 'odd' periods such as 17,18,19 days and the fares reduced dramatically. My final fare for 18 days including all the extras was £238-48 return, and I opted for on-line book-in.
I go again on September 27th. This time I got a 'bargain' from Thomson at Cardiff. O.K. it wasn't as cheap as May, but it's 30 minutes drive away, not 6 hours on the coach and saves me £25 on coach fees.
There are a few special offers now and again from Thomson and T.C., where it sometimes 'equals out', but then you have no choice as to where and when you stay. I tend to go early and late season when some establishments and flights are getting fewer as they are opening later and closing earlier in the season.
On all flights booked independently, there is the offer of 'coach transfer' for a modest fee, but I would prefer to pre-order a taxi, hopefully taxi-share, to avoid the 'island tour'.
All inclusive can be ok when you are in a group, but not when you are on your own.
Martin. 
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: emeralddragons on August 15, 2013, 04:49:17 PM
Thank you, MicK-G, for taking the trouble to clarify. We visit Arillas yearly, from a euro country. For us, independent booking has proved slightly cheaper. We book with a travel agency that sells package holidays, but we book "flight only". As there are only a few of these on each flight, one has to book early.
It is not always possible to choose the dates months in advance, so we have sometimes booked cheap last-minute packages, with undetermined accommodation somewhere in Corfu, and then not used that accommodation. Later, after having booked and paid, we inform the travel agency of this, and tell them where we actually will be staying.
Then we mail our usual hotel in Arillas, and have always been able to get a room. And excellent service everywhere.
As has often been said on these pages, this way more of the money stays in Arillas. Generally all inclusives are not good for the local people and local producers, and often their food is not the genuine food of the area. But they can make holidays easier for their guests, particularly for families.
The question of cost is important. It is time consuming and frustrating to compare alternatives before one chooses a trip, but it is worth the effort. The Arillas Forum is full of good tips.
(As for changing the towels every day, many hotels all over the world are going "green". Towels might not be changed daily, but one can ask for new towels, if needed. Or there may be signs in the bathroom, asking guests not to leave taps running unnecessarily. I am all for it, and hope this way of thinking will catch on.)
Emeralddragons
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Eggy on August 15, 2013, 06:05:29 PM
Emerald-D

There are many posts on this forum which are well laid out and very informative.

This one was a pleasure to read and very well said.

Negg
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on August 15, 2013, 06:13:55 PM
Agree with you all!  I think it all depends on whether you can book well in advance, whether there are just two of you (like us) or whether you are a family and have to travel in the school holidays.

I recall our last family holiday - to Cyprus maybe 7 years ago now - cost us £2500 for a 1 bed apartment only for our family of 4 (2 sleeping in the lounge) and that was no board but was travelling in August as a package through either Thomsons/Thomas Cook (don't recall which).

Now we pay just a tiny bit more to travel in March/April to somewhere like Mexico for 2 weeks all inclusive.

Our holiday for 2 of us to Arillas in Sept is costing us for 12 days (I've posted this before) less than £850 so a lot of factors to take into consideration, a package wasn't a lot more expensive.

Not sure what others spend in Arillas but we reckon around £100 a day for the 2 of us for food/drink/any trips/entertainment.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: claire43 on August 15, 2013, 06:25:13 PM
This subject possibly leads in to the bigger question that we could always ask ourselves:
        i.e. do we fall into the trap of the cheapest alternative with the 'big' companies offering 'All Inclusive' and where the locals receive a very poor percentage of the money we pay,or do we try to spend our money with independent people trying to make an honest living? Gradually the 'little people will be unable to continue and the 'big guys' then charge 'big 'money. ( this can be clearly seen here in UK with little shops and now Tesco's taking over the country)

We have booked with Thompson for this holiday because I needed to book last October to get me through the winter! But when we get there in just a few hours (!!!!!) we will spend our hard earned money with all the locals,we would not even take the transfers with Thompson as it was extra cost and that money will go now to a local taxi Arillas firm ,thank you!

Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on August 15, 2013, 06:29:56 PM
Actually looking at pricing for next year - it was the first time I saw with a package that you could take the price of the transfer off (think I was looking at Thomsons) and the reduction was £60 for coach transfer.  I would much rather take this off and then pay for a local taxi there and back.

Unless I'm being dozy (very possible) I've never noticed an option to remove it before and then thought I would be paying extra on top so have just used coach transfers.  With that option it's a no brainer.

Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: MicK-G on August 15, 2013, 06:33:40 PM
Hi Claire, I am pleased that the hotel owners are receiving more of the cash directly rather than just getting a small amount, I do wonder whether rooms could be at a better rate so that more money could then be spent in Arillas? If my room was cheaper then I would've spent more in the bars and restaurants. My problem isn't the amount I spent, it's what I got for my money. Greece has a bit of a poor reputation within Europe for paying taxes. Are the higher room charges due to the increased taxes that people are now paying within Greece?
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on August 15, 2013, 06:41:19 PM
Mick - I think I've got an exceptionally good deal for a studio with Bardis Sun Apartments next month (but obviously not school holidays) at 300 Euros for 12 nights. 

I did query pricing for next year for a few places and Marina Hotel quoted me 40 per night for an apartment, 50 Euros a night for a hotel room with breakfast included, Marinaki 60 Euros per night and I think Horizon is around 75-80 Euros per night (for the two of us). 

But school holidays are always expensive wherever you go and I presume you are having a 2 bed or 1 bed apartment (rather than a studio like us).

We have found Arillas itself one of the cheaper Greek islands to eat and drink out in and have found the food quality to be really good - compared to say Kos Town and Crete where they have the menus on boards out with the pictures and the food tastes microwaved.

23 sleeps - can't wait!!!  Now, first drink.... house white wine or retsina..... oh, what a dilemma I can't wait to have!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: MicK-G on August 15, 2013, 07:26:09 PM
I think you're right Daisy, there are some good deals, I've seen that Angela's apartments are available for €30 per night.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Jo Wissett on August 15, 2013, 07:28:46 PM
Tell ya what, I challenge anyone in this country to get a room for 5, with pool and sea seconds away for around £50!!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Vaughan & Angie on August 15, 2013, 08:13:07 PM
Ah! Yes Jo, but does it have swing?
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Eileen on August 15, 2013, 09:59:16 PM
Tell ya what, I challenge anyone in this country to get a room for 5, with pool and sea seconds away for around £50!!

Too darn right there girl!  UK has priced itself out of the market...even a caravan costs an arm and a leg :-(
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: oldgit on August 15, 2013, 10:58:29 PM
Hi Booked our family group of 10 in last week of May independently. Worked out cheaper than package deal. Flights via Jet 2 and accommodation with Jimmy at Rainbow. Jimmy also arranged minibus to and from airport. Linda and I returning 30th August flight out via Easyjet but staying till Monday 16th September as Jet2 flight was cheaper than returning on the Friday ( saving pays for the extra 3 nights at the Rainbow) Yammas.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: MicK-G on August 15, 2013, 11:18:50 PM
I have to travel during the school holidays when there isn't great deals.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: AJC51 on August 15, 2013, 11:28:53 PM
Jo & Angie
A swing of that quality and the view alone would be £50.
Only 16 sleeps.

Al Sal & (Becs 23 sleeps snuck on a flight)
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Angela66 on August 16, 2013, 09:08:19 AM
Hi all

The Marina charge 50 euros a nigh all year round as we have just booked for August next year - this includes breakfast.

We we're laughing as we booked because to us it seemed 'pricey' to get 4 of us out there; flights, 2 rooms etc.  however even if we have to pay £500 top whack for the flights then that would be around £3k plus taxis.  However we spend around £100 a day so add that on and we are looking at 4.4k. 

Now a decent all inclusive in turkey was coming in at around the same but: you would then spend at least £500 during 2 weeks all inc and you have to cope with the same food every night tedium that is typical of all inc.

Now to be fair, we could also have got cheaper next year by staying in an apartment but it is our wedding so...  Plus, I am hopeful we will manage some cheaper EasyJet or Ryan air flights.  Maybe we will get the cost down to 3.5 k

However, I have to say that when the 2 daughters start to drink alcohol and if they are still holidaying with us, then I may do a couple of years all inc, as it would definately be more cost effective.  I am hoping thought that they both have their own independence and choose to go with their friends instead;)

In the meantime I shall look forward to John and I's one week at the Mathraki (£788 with thomsons, plus euro 170 for car hire through Theo from the airport) and then eagerly count down to our wedding and honeymoon at the Marina next year ( with maybe a cheeky week on May thrown in aswell)

Regards
Angela
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Karen/Colin on August 18, 2013, 12:47:55 PM
We are looking to do book indepentantly next year for 1 week. I have been trying to contact the Horizon but not sure if the email address is correct. Can anyone enlighten me??

Thanks

Karen
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: patrickjohn on August 18, 2013, 01:04:38 PM
Dear Karen
Have a look at the website:

http://www.horizon-hotel.gr/en/index.php

and you will find the email address is given as:

info@horizon-hotel.gr

Best wishes

Pat
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: kevin.g on August 18, 2013, 03:44:19 PM
also karen book your flights as soon as they release there schedule,i book e/j and save a fortune the day they released them ,yiammas
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: gaye on August 18, 2013, 05:19:33 PM
When does ej publish summer 2014 flights?
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Karen/Colin on August 19, 2013, 03:29:11 PM
Thanks for that kevin.g. getting a bit twitchy as no firm booking yet for Arillas 2014!
Karen
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on August 19, 2013, 03:31:23 PM
Think it depends when you want to go Karen/Gaye - last year we booked Gatwick to Corfu for 7th Sept 2013 in around Oct 2012 (as soon as summer flights were released) but the return flights weren't available to book until Dec.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Jo Wissett on August 20, 2013, 12:17:46 AM
Yes Gaye, last year we booked in Oct on the day they were released. What a stress-fest that usually is haha!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: b.dunkerley on August 21, 2013, 03:39:47 PM
For a number of years we have been to Arillas on a package. This year we booked everything independently. We flew with Thomas Cook, as they were one of the cheapest. Booked our accomodation at the Mirage, with Nikos. (For the 4th year running) Hired a Car for the 2 weeks via the Internet. As usual had a great time, and may have found the right anti-mozzy spray, which is a bonus. We have booked the accomodation at the Mirage for next year and looking forward to it already. Keep looking on the websites for flight prices though, as they constantly change.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on August 21, 2013, 03:42:39 PM
We found the trouble with booking say Thomas Cook flights is that they still only fly on a Monday or Friday and therefore if we want 2 weeks holiday it takes my husband into a third week, and then he has to go up a level in permissions for approving his holiday.... by booking Easyjet they fly every day and we can pick Saturday so our 2 weeks doesn't encroach into a third week.  But I know not everyone has the same problems as us!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: julied on August 21, 2013, 04:48:29 PM
hi daisyday

I have the same problem as your husband. I dont get many holidays as it is and I have to have 5 days at christmas when I really dont want them. The only way I can do this without going into a third week is going when there is a bank holiday so that I will only use 9 days.
Going on Monay cant wait
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on August 21, 2013, 04:55:13 PM
Have a fantastic time Julie - not sure whether we overlap as we arrive on 7th Sept!  Where are you staying?
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: julied on August 21, 2013, 05:05:09 PM
daisyday

I feel a bit of a traitor we are actually staying at San Stephanos this time at the Romanza Hotel but we will be having plenty of visits to Arillas
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: daisyday on August 21, 2013, 05:23:08 PM
Well have a great time - we walk to San Steph quite a lot so you never know!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: jeffers on January 08, 2016, 05:00:44 PM
We are looking to go to Arillas in September looking for somewhere near the centre or beach as I cant walk to far at the moment . Any help would be very helpful please.  We have Been to the horizon hotel before but would like to try somewhere else
    Thanks   jeffers
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: patrickjohn on January 08, 2016, 07:06:03 PM
Hi Jeffers - Julia and I have stayed at the Kaloudis Village for years.  Its right on the front (at the North End) and has everything you might need.  Pool, bar, restaurant, minimarket and good accomodation.  Have stayed at the Horizon ourselves but now always book for the Kaloudis (Thomsons do a package).  Hope this is helpful.  Regards, Pat.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: jeffers on January 09, 2016, 11:01:03 AM
Thank you Pat
  I have just looked at the complex and it looks lovely and not to far from the beach and centre of the village
  Many thanks. Jeff












Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on January 09, 2016, 04:56:27 PM
Bardis Hotel and Bardis Sun are close to the beach .....
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: soniaP on January 09, 2016, 09:28:28 PM
Being the official "travel agent" (as Bobby has named me) for Bardis Sun Studios obviously I recommend them. Roll on some more commission in the form of Retsina.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: coys on January 09, 2016, 10:02:28 PM
Mirage is almost on the beach, large pool big studios and close to the centre.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Ron and Sue on January 10, 2016, 11:03:48 AM
Would definitely say Mirage.Both Kaloudis and Bardis are slightly uphill .Mirage is much nearer the centre of the village.Only trouble is that Mirage gets booked up very quickly.Have a great holiday wherever you stay       Ron.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Val n Bill on January 10, 2016, 05:28:14 PM

If you don't need a pool check out Alex Studios, they are  very good with beautiful gardens and almost on the beach. Another advantage is Sharon's Pool just yards away.

You can view the apartments on Booking.com. although we haven't stayed the we have friends who do.

    Val x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on January 10, 2016, 09:07:46 PM
I always thought of Mirage as the "posh folk's" place. It always looks so good - an oasis of palm trees and opposite the beach, a paradise in its own right. Buffed people wallowing in the sun on full display as you walk down the road. Millionaire's row....

But then I visited and met Nikos and Angela and came back down to earth. A mirage it is not- it is real. No wonder it is so popular. And Vangelis, their hard working chef produces incredibly tasty food. Another reason this sad old man and his equally sad old wife keep coming back to Arillas.

Phil
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: suzy61 on January 13, 2016, 11:30:52 PM
Great red wine at the Mirage too!

Suzy x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: MicK-G on May 31, 2016, 11:56:00 PM
We have done both the package and the independent holiday to Arillas. This year we have done a package deal and it has worked out really good value, better than independent booking. This year is probably the last time that we all come away together as a family as my son is twenty and our daughter 18. I think that when we come again my wife and I will travel out of season and independently.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: ness44 on June 01, 2016, 10:39:00 AM
We normally do package but as the prices were too high we went independely which saved us about £400. Strange how it works out different for every one. This is the first time not doing package so hopefully all goes smooth
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Jo Wissett on June 01, 2016, 10:45:01 AM
Mick I wouldn't bet on this being the last family Holiday. Lewis is 21 and has joined us for the last two years. Also on a more personal note I have just read your blog and am delighted that you have come out of the other side with your health issues. Roll on Arillas, just the tonic you need I reckon X
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: indigo648 on June 01, 2016, 10:52:52 AM
We did independent for the first time May and it spoilt us arriving on a day that was not busy with package flights and had a lovely time at the Mirage would definitely do it again unfortunately our nearest airport only do package flights and flights only are very expensive .
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: soniaP on June 01, 2016, 02:10:22 PM
We now always go independent as we want to stay at Bardis Sun Studios and they are independent. I am not sure how it works out with price and whether cheaper or not. Have done package holidays in the past. Probably like all, if not most hosts,  the Bardis family make it all so easy for us ie arranging taxi transfers from the airport etc. I don't really care if it works out more - (I doubt it does though) as I am getting the exact holiday that I want.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: soniaP on June 01, 2016, 02:20:40 PM
......Got me thinking this so I have worked it out. Flights, accommodation and taxi transfers will work out on our  independent holiday at approx £450 each for 2 weeks. That does not include aircon but most package deals don't include aircon. I think that is really cheap  isn't it, especially for end of June/beg of July.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on June 01, 2016, 02:41:32 PM
Not sure if it is or not but as a rule I have always found June holidays to be a little cheaper as there are no school holidays . Also depends where you're flying from and flight times etc etc ........
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: TerryW on June 01, 2016, 05:25:45 PM
We usually go around the 20th June, but this year we are going 24th July and the flights are a lot more expensive, even with booking on Easyjet when the flight details were released. Hopefully back to June next year. Our September flights for this year were very good prices. We went to Arillas with Libra holidays for our first visit in 1997, but since then we have always gone independent. I think the thought of every euro you spend, except for flights,  going  into the local economy makes you feel good, and its even better now we can drink Corfu beer. I remember Stella from Alex's Supermarket telling me that the travel companies were paying owners around €6 per night, and they had a job to make any money. By paying directly to the owners you help them to improve their facilities which gets more them business ( I think the Mirage is a great example). Lastly, isn't it nice to deal with families who pass the businesses down to later generations. This contributes to the magic of Arillas.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on June 01, 2016, 06:13:20 PM
You have dropped into the school holidays there Terry and that's why its more expensive .......
Welcome to my world !!!!   lol
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: soniaP on June 01, 2016, 08:40:05 PM
Couldn't agree more Terry.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Donpipez on June 02, 2016, 10:26:09 AM
I mentioned in an earlier thread that this Year will be our first booking independently and for the two of us found it more expensive than previous Years when booking through Thomsons (Albeit for a prime position on the seafront)

Last night we bit the bullet & booked the Mathraki again for 2017 - Just over £1500 for 4 of us from Doncaster first two weeks in July - At roughly £380 each I think this is a steal and £80 cheaper each than we paid for exactly the same holiday in July 2014 - plus as Doncaster is our local much easier for travelling (Although flight times aren't great)

Mick - our 22yr Old Son & his girlfriends are joining us for their 2nd visit - I'm sure you will have more Family time to come........

Neil & Jill
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: suzy61 on June 02, 2016, 11:26:12 AM
We have booked the Mathraki for end of July next year (I also have to do school holidays due to working in a school)
It came out cheaper with Thomsons than booking independently but like some people have said, they don't mind paying extra to get the exact holiday that suits them.
Swings and roundabouts for everyone...

Suzy X
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: turkeyfoot on June 02, 2016, 01:45:48 PM
Hi Neil Jill

We have booked  the Mathraki Sept 2017 from Gatwick via Thomson for 2 weeks at a cost of £800 ( for 2).
This also includes transfers although we still have a taxi.

Was thinking going independent, but after looking at the cost of September  2016 flights it seemed cheaper to remain with Thomson

Geoff
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Val n Bill on June 02, 2016, 02:11:28 PM
 
As previously mentioned on the forum the Mathraki is going independent next year, but Thomsons are still selling holidays there. Thomsons contracts are made at the beginning of 2017 but Akis is only going to contract out eight rooms out of all sixteen to them for next year so regular customers will still have a choice.  I presume that if all goes well they might go fully independent. We wish them good luck, and know that we will have many more holidays with the hospitality the Mathraki offers.

When we were there we just over a week ago we picked up the flyers from the bar, the prices are very much the same as other independent places in Arillas, rooms start at 15 euros a night per person in May  upto 35+euros per person at peak season. Very competitive with Thomsons even when factoring in transfers and flights. We would much prefer that the owners received all the profit from their business than the pittance the tour companies pay them.

We are returning to the Mathraki on 13th June this year for two weeks but as many customers have already booked through Thomsons for next year with only eight rooms for sale I think it will be first come first served.
 
   Val x


Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: suzy61 on June 02, 2016, 03:02:45 PM
Val...I agree, it's awful that they receive such a pittance from the tour operators, however, many people visiting Arillas are also on tight budgets especially families with young children and therefore have to book the cheapest option for them.
 
We always try and support the establishments by using their bar other provisions as often as we can.

Suzy X
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: turkeyfoot on June 02, 2016, 03:31:24 PM
Hi
Have never gone independent, although if Mathraki is going that way its something I would have to seriously  consider.
Always seems a bit daunting to book a holiday and then try to match flights.
Geoff
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Val n Bill on June 02, 2016, 04:03:06 PM
 
Hi Geoff, the best way to book independently is to book your flights when they are first released and then book the accommodation. Flights for next year will be released later this year. Someone on the forum will post the date usually. The earlier you book the cheaper the flight will be.

Akis will take a provisional booking for when you want to visit and change it to suit your flight, he can also arrange transport if you want him to.

  Val x
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Donpipez on June 02, 2016, 04:29:58 PM
Val

We fully endorse your views on the way Tour Operators treat the Hoteliers.

Before we discovered Arillas we spent a lot of our holiday's in Skiathos (Troulos) and the owner told us he would make a loss on the room bookings if it wasn't for the rental of A/C and what he took in the bar etc.

We also would much rather our money goes straight to Akis & Niko but after the stressful time I had booking flights to match our accommodation this Year I felt this was our best option.

Rest assured we shall spend plenty of Euros whilst in Arillas - Especially as my Son will not see sense and drinks only Strongbow!!!

Neil & Jill
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: soniaP on June 02, 2016, 06:47:46 PM
From what you guys have said it would seem that our independent holiday is not any cheaper than a package but like I said, I would rather do it that way and build the exact holiday I want and also know all the profits go direct to the owners. A lot of places that have gone independent do have the tour operators to be thankful to in the first place though as in the days before trip advisor and unchartered flights it got them onto the map so to speak. The first two times we went to Arillas we went on a package deal with Thomsons.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on June 02, 2016, 06:58:39 PM

Hi Geoff, the best way to book independently is to book your flights when they are first released and then book the accommodation. Flights for next year will be released later this year. Someone on the forum will post the date usually. The earlier you book the cheaper the flight will be.

Akis will take a provisional booking for when you want to visit and change it to suit your flight, he can also arrange transport if you want him to.

  Val x

Hi Val
Strangely enough , this year it hasn't quite worked out that way .  Quite a few Ryanair flights are cheaper now than on release , certainly for Portugal . Its the first time I have known it , well the second actually , Jet2 mysteriously did the same a couple of years ago.
If you book  with Easyjet though early and the flight goes down in price they have to give you vouchers for the difference to use at a later date
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: turkeyfoot on June 02, 2016, 08:58:53 PM
Hi Val n Bill

All sounds easy, but after  you have  booked your flight and you cant match to your accommodation, it no doubt will cost a lot to change your flight.

We do not travel light, 25 kilo each, and all the extras budget airlines charge  for hold luggage etc I'm not sure if it would be an  economical choice in many cases.

I can understand the owners wanting a better financial deal but I would have thought Thomson (or whoever) need the owners as much the owners need them. If all the owners, through their local trade organisation, in such a small place as Arillas, refused to deal at non economic prices then the operators would have to deal, or walk away.
Geoff
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: angiem on June 02, 2016, 09:20:28 PM

Hi Geoff, the best way to book independently is to book your flights when they are first released and then book the accommodation.

I agree totally with booking flights first. Even if your preferred accommodation isn't available for those dates, you can always find somewhere else ( - especially now that most are on booking.com), and as far as we're concerned, as long as it's in Arillas, that's all that matters. If you book your accommodation first, you can then end up paying through the nose for flights to fit.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Steph ~ on June 02, 2016, 09:27:49 PM
I think it depends where you want to stay.  We booked our 2017 accommodation last year before even going out there in July and struggled for dates - so I'd say if you have a place in mind, and it's popular, then book that first, then the flights when they come out.  Yes flight times can change but hopefully the days won't and some places will let you overbook days for a little flexibility.   As for it being daunting to do it independently, maybe it is the first time, but once you've done it it's ok, especially if you use the same people each year.  It's just like going home! :-)
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Jo Wissett on June 03, 2016, 10:46:08 AM
We generally always go the first two weeks of the Summer holidays and provisionally book with our apt owners give or take a couple of days then book Easyjeg flights as SOON as they come out in Oct. last year was a bit of a nightmare because as usual I was waxing lyrical
About the place and a work colleague booked for exactly 2 weeks after me based on my provisional dates. When
Flights came out I had to
Book the mon rather than the Friday so lost out on a few nights was gutted! Hence booking for 16 nights this year! I have already booked July 2017! Moral
Of the story, if anyone asks at work say Arillas is awful lol
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: turkeyfoot on June 03, 2016, 12:45:58 PM
Hi
Just as a matter of interest I looked at booking.com for apartments in Arillas for June 7th 2017 for two weeks to see what sort of availability there is.
June is the latest date you can book for on the site.
They had Alex Studios with 2 rooms available.
Dimitra Studios with rooms available. No number mentioned.
Arillas Studios full.
Anna Studios with 2 rooms left.

Not a great number of choices. Thought I would see   a lot more.

Still thinking of the pro and cons of going independent. Already booked our holidays for 2017 with Thomson in Corfu and Arillas  so no problem

Geoff
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: soniaP on June 03, 2016, 01:02:16 PM
Not all independent accommodation is on booking.com. I know for definite that Bardis Sun Studios are not on and also I don't think the Mirage is. A lot of accommodation owners like to control their bookings themselves and mainly are full from repeat business. We booked provisionally last year before we left and then booked flights when they came out. As it happened we could go for a few more days so just checked with Bardis Sun Studios that we could extend a few more days and then booked flights. Bobby at BSS is on the ball and knows when the flights come out and so is sat up waiting patiently at his computer for the floods of emails about dates. Last year when Easyjet flights came out I think he was up until about 2 or 3 in the morning answering emails about accommodation and confirmation of availability.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: suzy61 on June 03, 2016, 01:47:40 PM
Now that's what I call service with a smile Sonia...although probably not at 3.00 in the  morning!
 Great dedication to his customers and obviously their business.

Suzy X
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on June 03, 2016, 01:54:15 PM
Hi
Just as a matter of interest I looked at booking.com for apartments in Arillas for June 7th 2017 for two weeks to see what sort of availability there is.
June is the latest date you can book for on the site.
They had Alex Studios with 2 rooms available.
Dimitra Studios with rooms available. No number mentioned.
Arillas Studios full.
Anna Studios with 2 rooms left.

Not a great number of choices. Thought I would see   a lot more.

Still thinking of the pro and cons of going independent. Already booked our holidays for 2017 with Thomson in Corfu and Arillas  so no problem

Geoff

Is Bardis Hotel full then Turkeyfoot?
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: turkeyfoot on June 03, 2016, 02:05:00 PM
Hi
Bardis does not show for those dates
Geoff
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on June 03, 2016, 02:16:10 PM
I booked Bardis Hotel through booking.com for August. I did e mail them directly for a couple of weeks and had no reply so just went through the booking.com site in the end
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Steph ~ on June 03, 2016, 05:44:20 PM
Kaloudis private apartments (2 lots - one with Roula, one with Billy) aren't on Booking.com - have to book direct with them.  Roula is booked up certainly!
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: suzy61 on June 03, 2016, 09:06:11 PM
I'm not surprised Roula is already booked up, she's such a lovely lady.

Suzy X
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: soniaP on June 03, 2016, 09:21:48 PM
Bardis sun studios not to be confused with Bardis Hotel. Next to each other but owned by different people.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Steph ~ on June 04, 2016, 01:41:18 PM
I'm not surprised Roula is already booked up, she's such a lovely lady.


...and such lovely clean apartments, whether it's her private ones or the Thomson ones.  She welcomes you like long lost family - yes, she is lovely. We booked for 2017 in 2015 and still struggled for dates!  But that's good that she's getting the income.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: sueandmikeakablondegirl on June 13, 2016, 03:46:19 PM
We loved both the bardis hotel and studios.  Location is brilliant and customer care is amazing
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: soniaP on June 13, 2016, 06:11:55 PM
Yes heard good things about the Hotel as well but I was just pointing out that they are different and Bardis Hotel on booking.com whereas Bardis sun studios are not.
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: turkeyfoot on September 23, 2016, 12:30:24 PM
Hi
Just returned from a great holiday at  Arillas /Mathraki.
One  topic of conversation amongst the September regulars was the Mathraki going 50% independent next year.
Without exception all those already booked via Thomson next year found considerable savings going package from various airports .
One couple booked immediately  via Thomson from Manchester for Aug 31st, at a total cost of £713, which included an extra 10 kilo luggage allowance and free T/F from airport
Looking at fights only Manchester they were £484. The Matheraki costs were £380 for 14 nights. A total of £864. To this you have to add £45 for extra luggage and say £80 for a taxi T/F. A grand total of £989. A saving of £276.
Its a nice sentiment in thinking that the owners will get more for their rooms from independent customers but many people have a holiday  budget and want the most for their hard earned money.

 

Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: JohnTheRef&Dot on September 23, 2016, 06:42:56 PM
We are doing a week in October Independent. It has worked out at a good price for us. flights Accommodation and car hire £460 for the week
However We have booked a package for next May with T/C because we are unable to match the Independent price compared with the package
T/C Package flight accommodation extra baggage and transfers has cost us £308 each Total £618 from 21 May till 4 June 

Independently
Flights (Ryan air) £516 at todays price  20 May till 3 June
Bags £82
Room £350
Transfer £100
TOTAL  £1,048     
Package price saving =£430
No brainer....Swings and roundabouts me thinks
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on September 23, 2016, 11:34:26 PM
I always say it, check both options. Pretty much every time for us now independant works out cheaper.
Worth checking different airlines too, not just the budget ones For example Thomas Cook flights to Tenerife in November were the cheapest
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: justphil on September 24, 2016, 12:25:52 AM
For the last 5 years we have wanted to stay in the same complex (Bardis Sun Studios) so package was not an option. We also wanted 3 weeks which was not always offered as a package.  But with the help of forum (Thorpe in particular) we have managed very cheap flights with Easy Jet from Bristol, and our 6 stays for 3 weeks in peak season have come in at between £820 and £950 for two. Accommodation, transfer and flights with 2 hold bags.

Packages from Bristol never come in below that, and in truth, much more. Next year to Rainbow would be £1350 with Thomas Cook. But we are us, and we live in South West. We would jump at a cheaper alternative, and everybody should, whether package or independent. I think the North get a worse deal than we do, and Scotland and Northern Ireland worse still.

Phil
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: Truth on September 24, 2016, 08:42:08 AM
Spot on there Phil !
Hope you and Jen are well mate and enjoying retirement ........
Happy days....
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: annemarsh on September 25, 2016, 04:36:50 AM
Also to consider - on several occasions, (we prefer independent to package for flexibility), is different airlines from different airports for the separate legs of the trip.I realise this may not be practical for alot of people, but we quite often do (for example ) , 'out' from Leeds with Ryanair, and 'back' to Manchester with Easyjet. On the last occasion, this resulted in a net saving of £50 per person (- representing an excellent meal in the Brouklis, followed by a darned good night out in the 'Nut or Malibu or Rainbow or take your pick!!)
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: kevin-beverly on September 26, 2016, 10:42:33 AM


Hi All

Reading this post a lot of you go indepentntly now i am not at work i have been looking on the net at different flight sites it is a good job my heart tabets are working the price range from £200 to £2600 from gatwick to corfu a week in may for to old gits her and me you definitely got to search around
we have always used package holidays we have used easy jet to see our daughter in Island army base thats not to far to get back home if anything goes wrong with the air line
Do you remember XL we new a couple while on holiday on a Greek Island who was with XL they spent the whole two weeks looking for a return flight home we had our two weeks they were still looking to get home
we have booked with T/C at the tria adelphia with our family for our daughters wedding
but the year 2018 we my have to go indepentently as i am not at work  but we always think about XL went bust we do not want to spend our holiday looking for a return flight

kevin
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: JohnTheRef&Dot on September 26, 2016, 04:31:15 PM
Kevin
If your not working and are able to take your holiday at any time then just search for the Package deals,
there are some excellent prices to be had.
In May this year T/C were offering a week at the Rainbow £150 we have booked 2 weeks over the May bank holiday 2017 for £308 each.
The bargains are there, yes you may have to travel within a couple of weeks but if your not working then that's not a problem
It may be worth thinking about.   
Title: Re: Indepentently or Package?
Post by: kevin-beverly on September 27, 2016, 08:35:22 AM


Hi John

Thanks we will look at the best deals around at the moment bev is still working so we are bit limited but we will always try and get to Arillas

kevin