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Visit to Greece October 2004 |
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When Johann
asked me if I would like to join the Greek Tourist Office on a visit
to Greece, he didn’t have to ask twice. It was a situation of
yes, apply for a visa, pack and go!! Within 5 days I left the
office – happy to be returning to my favourite destination of all!!
Olympic Airways
is much the same as they have been the past 10 years. Pretty much
on schedule, service curt and abrupt but nontheless to the point,
meals adequately presented and nice( not much of a choice) and in
flight entertainment fair, Preseating is NEVER ever honoured and
seat configuation snug!
Grecotels is the
leading Greek Hospitality group – the local version of Hilton,
Marriott and Intercontinental. Stayed at the newly opened Olympia
Riveria situated in Killini, Western Peloponnese on the mainland.
Three hotels within the complex – 5 star Thalasso Spa; 4 star Oasis
Hotel and is based on a fully inclusive basis which is ideal for
families, and the Mandalarosa, a boutique hotel. Located across
from Zakynthos, and close to Ancient Olympia, this makes it an ideal
destination for exploring, island hopping and general R and R.
Meals are quite exceptional, a wide selection, perfectly prepared,
tasty and pleasantly presented. Killini is a 4 to 4 and a half hour
ride from Athens Airport. Well worth the journey.
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Then off we
went back to Eleftherious Venizelou Airport, Athens en route the
island of Kos. Johannesburg International Airport can certainly
learn from this airport – efficient check in, wide open areas,
without congestion and bottle necks, and surprisingly efficient
baggage handling. There is SO much space and you never feel
suffocated by all the passengers. JIA has just not quite got
the plot!
Kos is
across from Bodrum, Turkey(20 minute hydrofoil ride), and forms
part of the Dodecanese Islands, with Rhodes as the largest in
the group. This is the island where Hippocrates, the father of
Modern Medicine lived and taught his students – I went to visit
the tree, under which it is said, he tutored his students!! Kos
is also home to Pythagaros!
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LOBBY, KING GEORGE II
HOTEL, ATHENS |
2 nights were
spent at the Kos Imperial Hotel. Another splendid property, located
on a pebbled beach. Beautiful established gardens, 3 swimming
pools, a Spa which is highly recommended! Lovely rooms, exceptional
meals – this hotel is on a half board basis only.
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ASKLEPLIO, KOS
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Then off to
Athens – which has had a turn around of note! I was there is
March of this year, and the Athens of October is a whole new
ball game!!! CLEAN!!! Many many building renovated and
illuminated, the Acropolis and Likavitos illuminated and
beautiful, squares, fountains, pedistrianized streets abound –
just lovely!!! Visited Grecotels in Athens, and stayed at the
new Athens Grand Hotel – boutique hotel, well located, homely,
very comfortable and delightful.
BUT the
piece de resistance was the on site inspection of the King
George II Hotel – just opened on Syntagma Square. The marble
floors, the foyer, the bedrooms individually decorated with
brocade, silk, taffeta, handmade furniture, Murano Lights, -
truly fit for a King. Regrettably we were unable to view the
penthouse(380sq m) as it was occupied – at EURO 7.500 per
night!! Scarey but true!! I need to stay there! |
I believe that
Greece will be among the top destinations for 2005 – the success
story of the 2004 Athens Olympics has given this country the long
overdue impetus it needed. SO if travelling on business to Europe,
or on holiday, consider travelling to Greece as part of your visit
abroad – you will not be disappointed!! My colleagues and I
are just waiting for your call!!
Until then,
happy planning and Yiassou!!!
Tessa Hattingh |
