Arosmari Village Hotel Greece, Crete

Arosmari Village Hotel is a haven; a cluster of stone and cypress wood cottages with a beautiful garden at its heart, set in the timeless village of Vamos. Here, among roses, jasmine and lavender are many secret corners to read, meditate or sleep the afternoon away. Touches of the rural past: a shepherd's hut, a threshing circle and even a small chapel are spread among the olive trees and lawn. A leisurely day begins with breakfast served in the gardens, using local produce and later, light lunches can be served by the pool. There is a delightful reading room with an honesty bar with open views over the pool and garden plus a cosy sitting room with old photographs and memorabilia. An extra dimension is a small Spa for guests including a Turkish Hammam and treatment room for a combination of traditional massages and therapies with scented oils.

This year will be Arosmari’s first year as a small country hotel and we are featuring it for adults and couples only. Our Simpson concierge service will advise on local walks, driving routes and cultural activities including painting, cookery and wine-tasting.

The village of Vamos is set against the spectacular backdrop of the White Mountains. Shepherds still herd their sheep along the flag-stoned lanes and russet-haired goats amble between the olives. Vamos is a small slice of old Crete infused with the values of traditional hospitality. The village is famous for its local crafts and organic produce: including thyme honey, pickles, jams, cheeses and olive oil soap. It also has a local bakery, a 19th century kafenion and traditional tavernas where mouth-watering Cretan specialities, such as chicken in red wine, cuttlefish and fennel, artichokes or chickpea purée are cooked in stone ovens and served with some of the island's best wine. In low season, log fires create a wonderful evening atmosphere and in summer, large plane trees provide welcome shade. For those who want to explore authentic Cretan food a little further, local cookery courses are available. The village is also the starting point for walking tours of the surrounding countryside and historic Chania town is just a 30 minute drive.

  • We congratulate you and your excellent team upon Arosmari Village hotel. Superb Spa, nice gentle touches. Nikos (lovely man, owner & manager - who welcomed us to his great creation), Trisha (your excellent rep'), her husband Mike (estate maintenance), Lena & Zoe (cleaners). A pleasure. Thyme Cottage - Mr Hepburn - May 2013
  • We honeymooned with Simpson travel, because we wanted a holiday with a luxury feel. From the moment we were met at the airport we were made to feel like valued customers, by friendly knowledgable passionate staff who helped to make our stay in Crete unforgettable. Arugula Cottage - Mr Mccaig - April 2013
  • Great people, great place, great holiday. I’ve really relaxed here. Thank you. See you again. Mr Stiff - October 2012
  • Really beautiful place – we’re so lucky we found it. Everything is just perfect for a relaxing holiday. Thanks to Nikos and the team! Mr Morris - October 2012
  • When we arrived we met a gentleman who said "Welcome to paradise!" . How right he was! Arosmari is a beautiful and peaceful place in a lovely old town. This was our fourth holiday in Crete and by far the best. The accommodation was excellent, all the staff were very friendly and so were the other guests. There is so much to do in the area and there are some really great tavernas nearby. All the ingredients for a really relaxing holiday! Arugula Cottage - Mr Harcourt - September 2012
  • Thank you Stelios for your professional and effective back, neck and shoulder massage. Awesome treatments. Ms Lloyd - September 2012
  • Very relaxing stay – the garden and pool are great. We are so pleased our friends recommended Vamos and Arosmari. Thank You. Mr Purvis - September 2012
  • Excellent. Too good for words. Mrs Cobham-Moore - September 2012
  • Your body massage with special attention to my neck was excellent Stelios – I’ll be back! Thank you. Mrs Lowe - August 2012
  • Arosmari Village Retreat is a good location for exploring north west Crete that also has many local attractions and a true village atmosphere. Basil Cottage - Mr Heath - August 2012
  • Thank you for a fantastic holiday. Oregano Cottage - Ms Tapper - August 2012
  • We’ve had a brilliant two weeks in Thyme Cottage. Wasn’t quite sure what to expect but it has been a wonderful holiday experience. Thank you Nikos, Ruby and the lady who cleaned our cottage every day. Enjoyed the breakfast that Ruby prepared! We’ve met some lovely people who have been a special part of our holidays. Some places and recommendations: • Take a pedalo on the river in Georgioupolis and look for turtles. • Drive through the mountains (sheer drops!) and take the boat to Loutro. • Go on a boat for a 2 hour trip to see caves and snorkelling from Alymirida. • Waterpark was fab but expensive. Go early in the day to make the most of it. The beach in Rethymnon – very warm. There is so much more to do but we would need another holiday to get over it! Thank you Crete and Arosmari – we’ve had a great time. We’ll be back and/or will try Simpson Travel again. Mr & Mrs Leach - August 2012
  • Thank you Nikos for a wonderful retreat. Everything has been perfect and truly relaxing. Thank you Ruby for your wonderful smile every morning at breakfast. Memorable moments to our wonderful holiday include the boat trip from Kissamos to Balos, Lake Kournas and seeing the turtles and the water snake. Mountain road to Choria Sfakia and boat ride to Loutro was wonderful – sea very clear. Also Elafonissi was amazing and the coastal route back wonderful. We have had a fantastic two weeks in tranquil surroundings. The Assumption Day festival was lovely to experience and very special. Thank you. Mr & Mrs Pluss - August 2012
  • A fantastically relaxing fortnight here in Vamos. Great accommodation and beautiful gardens and pool. We’ve enjoyed staying in beautiful Vamos and hope to return some day. Highlights were the Cretan Cookery course (see Klio in Tourist office) and the Monastery of St George. Thank you Nikos, Ruby, Trish and Natasha for all your care. Mr & Mrs MacKenzie - July 2012
  • Really good and very professional back and neck massage – thank you Stelios Mrs Mackenzie - July 2012
  • Thank you Stelios for a wonderfully therapeutic and professional massage. A great way to relax, unwind and a fab start to a holiday. Mrs Amias - July 2012
  • Wonderful – just what we hoped for, and more. Accommodation perfect, lovely surroundings and a great place to kick back and unwind. We’ll miss the views from our terrace – the Lefka Ori, and the circling buzzard… but we WILL be back. Stelios body massage is also highly recommended! A wonderful retreat! Ms Simmons - July 2012
  • We cannot add anything more to previous entries! We last visited about seven years ago. Yes there have been changes and developments but only good ones! The breakfast is a wonderful addition. As well as excellent food it is a good way to get to know your fellow guests. The highlight for us has to be the cooking lesson. Do book a lesson via the Tourist office in Vamos to find out why! Our best wishes to Nikos and family. May your venture continue to go from strength to strength. Mr & Mrs Brown - June 2012
  • Our first visit to Crete! Vamos has been an excellent location and Arosmari a delightful place to stay. Thank you to Nikos, Ruby and Trish for helping to make our stay so enjoyable. And thank you to our fellow guests whose company we have enjoyed at breakfast. A visit to Klio at the Tourist office was useful and our Cretan Cooking lesson was great fun. We hope to see you again. Mr & Mrs Kitson - June 2012
  • We have loved everywhere we've been -we are on the same plot Rosemary Cottage - Mr Jones - June 2012
  • Our second enjoyable visit to Arosmari Retreat. This time we really ‘chilled’ so it may be worth reading our recommendations during week 14-21 Sept 2010. This time we bought ‘Discover Almyrida & Kalyves...On Foot’ (still the same price) highlighted several interesting sounding places we intended to visit by car, but ran out of steam before doing so!! Kalyves beach remains our favourite – especially the less commercialised western stretch. There is a small road to the right, almost opposite a large supermarket, at the end of the town – quite near to G.K. (also handled by Simpson where we believe you may use the facilities). (Thank you everyone for a lovely time) Mr & Mrs Brown - June 2012
  • We totally endorse everything said here. Plus take the drive to Choria Sfakia on the mountain road and take the water taxi to Sweetwater Beach. We must come back some day. Mr & Mrs Briers - June 2012
  • Our second visit in successive years. I’ve found it a wonderful relaxing environment to live in. Thanks to everyone who made our stay a memorable one. Mr & Mrs Clarke - June 2012
  • Beautiful! A wonderful stay in a fabulous cottage amongst a stunning setting. Ms Lyons - June 2012
  • Thank you for a lovely holiday! Rosemary Cottage - Ms Garner - May 2012
  • Great holiday, loved Vamos as very un-touristy and the small suggestions above would make things perfect - it was a really lovely break. Thyme Cottage - Mrs Emms - May 2012

Individual Accommodation Details:

General Accommodation Details:

  • A cluster of 10 semi-detached or detached cottages with communal gardens
  • Hotel for adults/couples only
  • Reception/concierge open 6 days/week for advice on local walks, driving routes and cultural activities
  • Tuition/classes available for painting, cookery and wine tasting
  • Continental breakfast served daily
  • Light lunches available by the pool
  • Reading room/library, small sitting room, honesty pool bar
  • Hammam and massage room - treatments can be pre-booked from UK or paid locally
  • Laundry service available (payable locally)
  • iPod docking station and safe in each cottage
  • Korres bathroom products, slippers and bathrobes in each cottage
  • Iron, ironing board, hairdryer, pool and bath towels provided
  • Wifi in communal areas
  • Swimming pool 13.5m x 5m (depth 1.1 - 1.8m)
Location:
  • Beach (Kalyves) 10min drive
  • Tavernas/shops (Vamos) 8min walk
  • Chania 30min drive
  • Chania airport 1hr drive
      Booked in UK   Paid locally
      (credit/debit
      cards only)
Treatments (details below)      
Classic Partial-Body Massage 25 min         £25           £30
Classic Full-Body Massage  50 min         £40           £50
Deep Tissue/Sports Massage 25 min         £25           £30
Deep Tissue/Sports Massage     50 min         £40           £50
Hot Stones Massage 50 min         £50           £60
Reflexology 15 min         £15           £20
Head Massage 25 min         £25           £30
       
Packages      
3 x 25min therapies           £60           £70
2 x 50min therapies           £75           £85
3 x 50min therapies           £100           £120

 

Treatments:

  • Classic Partial-Body Massage  - relaxing massage for feet and legs, or neck, back and shoulders, using essential oils to release muscle tension
  • Classic Full-Body Massage - relaxing massage to stimulate blood circulation and relax muscles using essential oils
  • Deep Tissue or Sports Massage - specialised massage applied to specific body tissue prone to damage and injuries; massage aimed at increasing flexibility, strength and endurance limits; ideal for guests wishing to receive medium to deep pressure
  • Hot Stone Massage - helps to reduce stress and eliminate muscle stiffness resulting in detoxification and body revitalisation; stones have significant geomagnetic properties of thermal conductivity and are high in iron and magnesium
  • Reflexology - an alternative medicine, a holistic therapy based on the existence of reflex body points using special techniques of pressure, movement and massage, good circulation can be achieved reducing tension, relieving the body of toxins and improving nerve function
  • Head Rejuvenation - massage to relax muscles to release subcutaneous connective tissue which when relaxed and healthy is refilled with water resulting in skin hydration. The face becomes clean and transparent in appearance and the skin becomes more elastic whilst also relieving headaches, migraines, insomnia and cervical syndrome. This method of massage aims to balance facial expression and offers relaxation and wellbeing. 

N.B.  The massage room at Arosmari Village Hotel is air-conditioned.

  No of people 21 May28 May
Arugula Cottage 714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
3SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
4SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 4 June11 June18 June25 June
Arugula Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
3SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
4SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 2 July9 July16 July23 July30 July
Arugula Cottage 714714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD1,280pp1,900pp1,280pp1,900pp
3SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD972pp1,400pp972pp1,400pp
4SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD820pp1,155pp820pp1,155pp
  No of people 6 August13 August20 August27 August
Arugula Cottage 714714714714
21,280ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD1,230pp1,800pp
3972ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD938pp1,333pp
4820ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD795pp1,105pp
  No of people 3 September10 September17 September24 September
Arugula Cottage 714714714714
21,230ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
3938ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
4795ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 1 October8 October15 October22 October
Arugula Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLD1,040pp1,445pp1,015pp1,400pp1,015ppSOLD
3SOLDSOLD807pp1,092pp790pp1,062pp790ppSOLD
4SOLDSOLD693pp920pp680pp898pp680ppSOLD
  No of people 21 May28 May
Basil Cottage 714714
2SOLDSOLD905pp1,350pp
  No of people 4 June11 June18 June25 June
Basil Cottage 714714714714
2905pp1,350pp905ppSOLDSOLDSOLD905pp1,350pp
  No of people 2 July9 July16 July23 July30 July
Basil Cottage 714714714714714
2955ppSOLDSOLDSOLD955pp1,400pp1,030pp1,500pp1,030pp1,500pp
  No of people 6 August13 August20 August27 August
Basil Cottage 714714714714
21,030pp1,500pp1,030pp1,500pp1,030pp1,500pp955ppSOLD
  No of people 3 September10 September17 September24 September
Basil Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLD955ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 1 October8 October15 October22 October
Basil Cottage 714714714714
2815pp1,185pp800pp1,165pp790pp1,135pp790ppSOLD
  No of people 21 May28 May
Bay Cottage 714714
2SOLDSOLD905ppSOLD
  No of people 4 June11 June18 June25 June
Bay Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 2 July9 July16 July23 July30 July
Bay Cottage 714714714714714
2955pp1,400pp955pp1,400pp955pp1,400pp1,030pp1,500pp1,030pp1,500pp
  No of people 6 August13 August20 August27 August
Bay Cottage 714714714714
21,030ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD955pp1,400pp
  No of people 3 September10 September17 September24 September
Bay Cottage 714714714714
2955pp1,350pp955pp1,300pp920pp1,300pp890pp1,250pp
  No of people 1 October8 October15 October22 October
Bay Cottage 714714714714
2815pp1,185pp800pp1,165pp790pp1,135pp790ppSOLD
  No of people 21 May28 May
Camomile Cottage 714714
2830pp1,225pp1,000pp1,325pp
3663pp942pp792pp1,008pp
  No of people 4 June11 June18 June25 June
Camomile Cottage 714714714714
21,080pp1,525pp1,080pp1,525pp1,080pp1,525pp1,080pp1,525pp
3838pp1,150pp838pp1,150pp838pp1,150pp838pp1,150pp
  No of people 2 July9 July16 July23 July30 July
Camomile Cottage 714714714714714
21,110ppSOLDSOLDSOLD1,135pp1,650pp1,160pp1,700pp1,160ppSOLD
3858ppSOLDSOLDSOLD875pp1,233pp892pp1,267pp892ppSOLD
  No of people 6 August13 August20 August27 August
Camomile Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD1,160pp1,700pp1,105pp1,625pp
3SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD892pp1,267pp855pp1,217pp
  No of people 3 September10 September17 September24 September
Camomile Cottage 714714714714
21,105ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD1,055pp1,475pp
3855ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD822pp1,117pp
  No of people 1 October8 October15 October22 October
Camomile Cottage 714714714714
2970pp1,385pp945pp1,345pp960pp1,320pp960ppSOLD
3760pp1,052pp743pp1,025pp753pp1,008pp753ppSOLD
  No of people 21 May28 May
Fennel Cottage 714714
2SOLDSOLD1,030ppSOLD
  No of people 4 June11 June18 June25 June
Fennel Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 2 July9 July16 July23 July30 July
Fennel Cottage 714714714714714
2SOLDSOLD1,055pp1,500pp1,080pp1,540pp1,095ppSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 6 August13 August20 August27 August
Fennel Cottage 714714714714
21,095ppSOLDSOLDSOLD1,095pp1,570pp1,030ppSOLD
  No of people 3 September10 September17 September24 September
Fennel Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD1,005pp1,400pp980pp1,350pp
  No of people 1 October8 October15 October22 October
Fennel Cottage 714714714714
2905pp1,285pp885pp1,260pp870pp1,235pp870ppSOLD
  No of people 21 May28 May
Lavender Cottage 714714
2860pp1,235pp1,000pp1,325pp
3683pp948pp792pp1,008pp
  No of people 4 June11 June18 June25 June
Lavender Cottage 714714714714
21,030pp1,450pp1,030pp1,450pp1,030pp1,450pp1,030pp1,450pp
3805pp1,100pp805pp1,100pp805pp1,100pp805pp1,100pp
  No of people 2 July9 July16 July23 July30 July
Lavender Cottage 714714714714714
21,055pp1,500pp1,055pp1,500pp1,080ppSOLDSOLDSOLD1,095pp1,570pp
3822pp1,133pp822pp1,133pp838ppSOLDSOLDSOLD848pp1,180pp
  No of people 6 August13 August20 August27 August
Lavender Cottage 714714714714
21,095pp1,570pp1,095pp1,570pp1,095pp1,570pp1,030pp1,500pp
3848pp1,180pp848pp1,180pp848pp1,180pp805pp1,133pp
  No of people 3 September10 September17 September24 September
Lavender Cottage 714714714714
21,030pp1,450pp1,030pp1,400pp1,005pp1,400pp980pp1,350pp
3805pp1,100pp805pp1,067pp788pp1,067pp772pp1,033pp
  No of people 1 October8 October15 October22 October
Lavender Cottage 714714714714
2905pp1,285pp885pp1,260pp870pp1,235pp870ppSOLD
3717pp985pp703pp968pp693pp952pp693pp
  No of people 21 May28 May
Mint Cottage 714714
2830pp1,225pp1,000pp1,325pp
  No of people 4 June11 June18 June25 June
Mint Cottage 714714714714
2960pp1,400pp960ppSOLDSOLDSOLD960pp1,400pp
  No of people 2 July9 July16 July23 July30 July
Mint Cottage 714714714714714
2980ppSOLDSOLDSOLD1,005pp1,490pp1,070pp1,540pp1,070pp1,540pp
  No of people 6 August13 August20 August27 August
Mint Cottage 714714714714
21,070pp1,540pp1,070ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 3 September10 September17 September24 September
Mint Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD970pp1,350pp940pp1,300pp
  No of people 1 October8 October15 October22 October
Mint Cottage 714714714714
2865pp1,235pp850pp1,215pp840pp1,185pp840ppSOLD
  No of people 21 May28 May
Oregano Cottage 714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 4 June11 June18 June25 June
Oregano Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 2 July9 July16 July23 July30 July
Oregano Cottage 714714714714714
2955pp1,400pp955pp1,400pp955pp1,400pp1,030ppSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 6 August13 August20 August27 August
Oregano Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLD1,030pp1,500pp1,030pp1,500pp955ppSOLD
  No of people 3 September10 September17 September24 September
Oregano Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLD955pp1,300pp920pp1,300pp890pp1,250pp
  No of people 1 October8 October15 October22 October
Oregano Cottage 714714714714
2815pp1,185pp800pp1,165pp790pp1,135pp790ppSOLD
  No of people 21 May28 May
Rosemary Cottage 714714
2SOLDSOLD1,080ppSOLD
  No of people 4 June11 June18 June25 June
Rosemary Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD1,080ppSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 2 July9 July16 July23 July30 July
Rosemary Cottage 714714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD1,135pp1,650pp1,160pp1,700pp1,160pp1,700pp
  No of people 6 August13 August20 August27 August
Rosemary Cottage 714714714714
21,160pp1,700pp1,160ppSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 3 September10 September17 September24 September
Rosemary Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLD1,105pp1,525pp1,080pp1,525pp1,055pp1,475pp
  No of people 1 October8 October15 October22 October
Rosemary Cottage 714714714714
2970pp1,385pp945pp1,345pp960pp1,320pp960ppSOLD
  No of people 21 May28 May
Thyme Cottage 714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 4 June11 June18 June25 June
Thyme Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD1,080ppSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 2 July9 July16 July23 July30 July
Thyme Cottage 714714714714714
2SOLDSOLD1,110pp1,600pp1,135pp1,650pp1,160ppSOLDSOLDSOLD
  No of people 6 August13 August20 August27 August
Thyme Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD1,105ppSOLD
  No of people 3 September10 September17 September24 September
Thyme Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD1,080pp1,525pp1,055ppSOLD
  No of people 1 October8 October15 October22 October
Thyme Cottage 714714714714
2SOLDSOLDSOLDSOLD960pp1,320pp960ppSOLD

If applicable, car hire category included in price is as follows:

2-3 guests 1 Group B
4 guests 1 Group C
5 guests 1 Group D
6 guests 2 Group B
7 guests 1 Group B and 1 Group C
8 guests 2 Group C

 

Booking Conditions

YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES
• Prices are in pounds sterling and are per person
• Accommodation only for the guests named on your invoice (including breakfast where stated if you are staying in a hotel)
• Return economy flights from the UK to your destination (flight supplements may be applicable depending on availability)
• Government and local taxes, excluding visa charges
• An air-conditioned car or return transfers, as specified in the property details
• The assistance of our local representative overseas
• Simpson information book in your accommodation

YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
• Any breakages, damage, losses, extra cleaning or outstanding accounts incurred during your stay
• Visas
• Holiday travel insurance
• Twin-centre holidays: a £25-70 per person administration fee is applicable which will include all middle transfers

YOUR SECURITY AND PEACE OF MIND
Full protection is guaranteed when you book a package with us. Our holidays are protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the Air Tour Organisers Licence (ATOL Licence 5858) and by the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA Membership W5698).

ACCOMMODATION ONLY
For most of our self-catering accommodation we are able to offer accommodation only prices (excluding flights, car hire and transfers). Restrictions may apply at certain times of the year.

CHILD CONCESSIONS
Children aged 2-11 years are eligible for concessions of between 5%-25% of the holiday price. This is offered at most of our self-catering properties depending on departure dates. High season dates are excluded. For further information please call our sales consultants.

INFANTS
There is a charge of £75 per infant (under 2 years) on all our holidays. Cots and highchairs are provided free of charge in our self-catering properties, however, some hotels may charge for these items and we will advise you of any extra costs at the time of booking. Many hotels offer reduced rates for children if they share the same room as their parents.

PLACING AN OPTION
In order to allow you to co-ordinate your holiday arrangements with friends and family, in many cases we are able to hold an option for up to 24 hours before confirming your booking.

PAYING FOR YOUR HOLIDAY
In order to confirm your booking a deposit of £200 per person is required unless you are booking accommodation only in which case 20% of the total holiday cost is required. However, if we need to buy in flight seats especially for your booking, we will ask you to pay a higher deposit to include the cost of the flights. This payment is non-refundable. The balance payment for your holiday should be paid at least 8 weeks prior to your departure. We accept most debit cards and credit cards, and personal cheques. All payments made by credit card will be subject to a 1.75% charge* reflecting our incurred costs. (*American Express is subject to a 2% charge.)
Multi-centre holidays incur a £25-70 per person administration fee.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
It is compulsory that all our guests have comprehensive travel insurance and we will need full details of your policy at the time of booking or before you travel.

FINAL DOCUMENTATION
Your travel documents are available to download and print 3 weeks prior to departure provided you have fully completed and submitted Advanced Passenger Information and Car Hire details (if applicable). Please check that you have completed all forms and pressed the submit button.

Please note if you are travelling with Ryan Air you will only be able to download your boarding passes approximately 7 days before departure due to the airline's check-in requirements.

Should you prefer to receive your documents by post, please ask us at the time of booking.

PASSPORTS AND VISAS
It is your responsibility to be in possession of a valid passport and any necessary visas. EU citizens do not need a visa to travel to Greece. If you are a non-EU citizen then you should check with your own embassy for the entry/re-entry requirements necessary for your journey. Children not on an accompanying parent’s passport before October 1998 are now required to hold their own passport if they are under 16 years. If you do not have a passport, it is recommended to apply at least 6 weeks before your holiday. Passports should be valid for 6 months after your return date.

FLIGHT INFORMATION
Our prices are based on our lowest contracted fare. Occasionally it may be necessary to purchase flights outside of our normal allocation and in these circumstances we may need to charge an additional supplement to reflect the extra costs incurred. This will also be the case if we are booking flights from regional airports or on flights where we do not have a seat allocation. If a supplement applies, this will be advised to you at the time of booking.

LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Most charter airlines allow 20kg of luggage per person (excluding infants); however it is becoming more common for airlines to change their restrictions on luggage weight and the number of items. Before travelling, we recommend you check your flight tickets for details and check with the airline’s website if travelling on a non-charter flight.

IN-FLIGHT MEALS AND SPECIAL DIETS
If the airline you are travelling with offers in-flight meals, requests for special meals may be made up to 14 days prior to departure. Whilst we will always pass your request onto the airline, we are unable to guarantee supply. Charges may apply and we will confirm these to you at the time of booking.

GROUP SEATING AND EXTRA LEGROOM
Some airlines offer passengers the opportunity of pre-booking guaranteed seats together at a pre-paid supplement (seats may be situated either side of an aisle) and some offer seating with extra legroom for a reasonable supplement. Availability and supplements can be advised at the time of booking.

PREGNANCY
You will usually need a certificate of fitness to fly if you are more than 28 weeks pregnant. Most airlines will not allow you to fly if you are more than 32 weeks pregnant. Please refer to the airline’s website for details of their policy.

API (ADDITIONAL PASSENGER INFORMATION)
Most countries require that the airline take additional information from each passenger such as full name, date and place of birth, passport number, country of issue and expiry date. You will need to provide this information at the time of booking or, at the very latest, prior to release of your travel documents. You are able to complete the details online via Manage My Booking or call a member of our Pre-Departure team.

NAME CHANGES
The name shown on a ticket must exactly match the name of the passenger travelling as it appears in his/her passport (first full name and surname). If not, you may be refused boarding. Once your flights have been booked, it is not usually possible to make name changes without incurring substantial charges. If there are any errors on your invoice or your flight tickets, please inform us immediately.

FOREIGN OFFICE ADVICE BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office provides up-to-date travel information to help British travellers make informed decisions about travelling abroad. Should you wish to check their advice or information about the destination you are travelling to, please visit their website: www.fco.gov.uk/en or call 020 7008 1500.

FLIGHT DELAYS
In the event of a flight delay, whenever possible we will ensure that the airline/operator communicates the reasons for and extent of any delay and implements appropriate standards of welfare provision. EU carriers should also comply with EU Regulation 261/2004 in the event of delays, cancellations or denied boarding and guidance is provided on the CAA’s website www.caa.co.uk

CAR HIRE INFORMATION
Most of our holidays include an air-conditioned hire car, to be collected from and returned to the airport (or port where applicable). The category of car included in the basic holiday price will vary according to the number of people in your party. We do not consider infants as part of the total party size. The cars we have included offer comfortable seating for the size of party travelling, however, we do ask you to take into account the size of the boot space for your luggage if any infants are in your party, and the number of child and baby seats required. You may wish to upgrade your car to give you extra comfort and space. Availability and supplements for upgrading will be advised at the time of booking. For transporting extra luggage it is also possible to pre-book a taxi.

The types of cars listed are only examples of car models in each category. We cannot guarantee that you will receive a specific make or model.

Crete Car Makes & Models
Group B Hyundai Atos A/C 4 seats
Group C Fiat Punto/Citroen C3 A/C 5 seats
Group D Hyundai Accent/Nissan Almera A/C 5 seats
Group E/F Suzuki Jimny/Vitara Soft Top 4 seats - on request
Group F2 Daihatsu Terios Hard Top A/C 5 seats - on request
Group G1 Minibus Fiat Doblo A/C 6 seater - on request
Group G2 Minibus Fiat Scudo A/C 9 seater - on request
Group H Hyundai Accent Automatic A/C 5 seats - on request
Group I Cabrio Peugeot 206/Citroen C3 5 seats - on request

Corfu Car Makes & Models
Group B Hyundai I 10 A/C 4 seats
Group C Ford Fiesta A/C 5 seats
Group D Hyundai Accent A/C 5 seats
Group E Automatic Car A/C 5 seats - on request
Group L Ford Focus A/C 5 seats – on request
Group F Minibus Fiat Scudo A/C 9 seater - on request
Group G Suzuki Jimny Soft Top 4 seats - on request

Paxos Car Makes & Models
Group B Fiat New Panda/ Fiat Punto A/C 4 seats
Group C Grande Punto/ Chevrolet A/C 5 seats
Group E Suzuki Jimny Soft Top 4 seats - on request
Group F Dacia Duster 4x4 Hard Top A/C 5 seats - on request
Group I Suzuki Grand Vitara A/C 7 seater - on request
Group J Automatic Car A/C Pax 5 seats - on request

Epiros Coast Car Makes & Models
Group B Fiat Punto A/C 4 seats
Group C Hyundai Accent A/C 5 seats

Kefalonia Car Makes & Models
Group A Daihatsu Cuore A/C 4 seats
Group B Hyundai I 10 A/C 4 seats
Group C Fiat Grande Punto A/C 5 seats
Group D Hyundai I 30 A/C 5 seats - on request
Group E Suzuki Jimny Soft Top 4 seats - on request
Group E1 Daihatsu Terios Hard Top A/C 5 seats - on request
Group F Minibus Fiat Doblo A/C 7 seater - on request
Group J Automatic Car A/C Pax 5 seats - on request

Ithaca Car Makes & Models
Group A Suzuki Alto A/C 4 seats
Group B Fiat Panda A/C 5 seats
Group C Fiat Grande Punto A/C 5 seats
Group D Seat Cordoba A/C 5 seats - on request
Group E Suzuki Jimny Soft Top 4 seats - on request
Group E1 Daihatsu Couare Automatic A/C 7 seats - on request
Group F Opel Zafira A/C 7 seats - on request

Zakynthos Car Makes & Models
Group B Hyundai Atos A/C 4 seats
Group C Hyundai Getz A/C 5 seats
Group D Hyundai Accent A/C 5 seats
Group K Hyundai Accent Automatic A/C 5 seats - on request
Group H Suzuki Jimny Soft Top 4 seats - on request
Group W Minibus A/C 9 seats - on request

Samos Car Makes & Models
Group B Hyundai Atos A/C 4 seats
Group C Hyundai Getz A/C 5 seats
Group D Hyundai Accent/Matrix A/C 5 seats
Group J Suzuki Jimny Soft Top 4 seats - on request

Skopelos Car Makes & Models
Group B Hyundai Atos A/C 4 seats
Group C Renault Clio/Citroen C3 A/C 4/5 seats
Group D Hyundai Accent A/C 5 seats
Group E Suzuki Jimny Soft Top 4 seats - on request
Group F Fiat Scudo A/C 9 seats - on request
Group G Hyundai Accent Automatic A/C 5 seats - on request

INCLUDED IN YOUR CAR HIRE
• Unlimited mileage
• Local taxes and compulsory insurance
• Two main drivers. Please note that there is a minimum age for drivers (minimum ages vary from 21 to 25 and can be advised at the time of booking) although there is no maximum age limit. Drivers must hold a British/EU Driver’s Licence or International Driver’s Licence, held for at least a year. You will not be able to hire a car without your original, valid Driver’s Licence which you must carry at all times when you are driving. Please also take the counterpart of your licence if you hold a photo licence.

CAR INSURANCE
Please note that in most cases you will need to pay an ‘excess’ in the event of theft or damage to your hire car, regardless of blame. As amounts and conditions vary throughout Greece, please ensure you ask for full details at collection, before you sign your car hire contract. The excess charge ranges from €300 to €750 dependent on your destination. Where an ‘excess’ applies, it may be possible to purchase extra insurance locally, which reduces or cancels the ‘excess.’ The insurance with or without the excess will not cover:
• Tyres, including puncture repairs
• Loss of or damage to car keys (and costs incurred due to this, for example towing and replacement keys, etc.)
• Windscreen, wing mirrors or undercarriage (you should not drive off-road)
• Interior of car is also not covered in Corfu and Paxos
• Personal Accident Insurance (this should be covered by your personal travel insurance)
• Any damage, loss, accident, theft, attempted theft, etc caused by your own negligence, for example, driving under the influence of alcohol, unlawful driving, driving off-road, using wrong type of fuel, unlocked doors, apparent personal effects, etc.

CAR HIRE DEPOSIT
The car hire agents will require you to lodge a credit card deposit when you collect your car. No money will be taken if you return the undamaged car at the correct time with the correct amount of fuel and not requiring cleaning.

CHILD SEATS
Child and baby seats (forward facing seats only are available) can be provided if booked at least 2 weeks prior to your departure and are charged at £2 per day. Please remember to specify the age of the child. Local car hire and Simpson Travel staff are not authorised to install the child seats and as style and installation may differ to those in the UK, you may prefer to bring your own child seat for your own peace of mind.

TRANSFER INFORMATION
Please refer to the information at the top of the page for details of the transfers included in the cost of your holiday. Taxis are licensed and insured to carry up to 4 passengers. Therefore, if there are 4 passengers and an infant then 2 taxis are needed and we will provide you with a separate quotation. If you are travelling with young children or babies, child seats are not provided for any vehicles used for transfers. For your own peace of mind, we recommend that you bring your own although there is no guarantee that local taxi companies will allow the use of child seats. Please note that the transfer times included in our accommodation details are approximate estimates only and do not include any waiting time.

Although we pre-arrange and book your ferry crossings in advance, poor weather or ferry cancellations may disrupt the schedules. In most cases, when you arrive at the port you will have to wait a certain amount of time for your onward boat transfer. If your flight experiences delays and you miss your pre-booked boat transfer, we will then book you onto the next available boat. If you miss the last ferry due to a flight delay or cancellation due to poor weather, it may be necessary for you to overnight at the port and then take the ferry the following morning.

ACCOMMODATION AND USEFUL INFORMATION
Air-conditioning and heating
We have indicated in the property descriptions which accommodation has air-conditioning included in the holiday price. Heating is available in some of our properties during the low season weeks, which is normally included in the holiday price.

Animals and wildlife
As in all rural communities, indigenous animals are an essential part of the way of life. The braying of a donkey, crow of a cockerel or the barking of a dog is not a complaint that receives much sympathy from the locals! Care should be taken to minimise the presence of insects and animals in your accommodation. Keep surfaces clean, dispose of refuse regularly and ensure that food is not left uncovered. Cats and dogs are often resident where an owner or manager lives on the property. If you are allergic to cats and/or dogs please ensure that you check the suitability of your chosen accommodation with us prior to confirming your booking.

Barbecues
We have specified if a barbecue is available at your accommodation. Please note that often in summer, due to the hot weather, use of your barbecue may not be allowed and/or strict rules for its use may apply. The local or national government reserves the right to introduce new rulings at any time, often with little prior notice, prohibiting the use of barbecues to reduce the risk of fires. Where a barbecue is not provided, it is usually because the surroundings are considered a fire risk or inappropriate for the use of barbecues.

Beach/pool towels
We provide Simpson Travel beach/pool towels in all our self-catering properties and these are normally laundered weekly. We would be happy to advise you which of our hotels provide beach/pool towels and if a charge applies.

Beds
Please note that a double bed could be two single beds placed together. Double beds usually measure 140cm x 190cm and single beds 80/90cm x 190cm. If you are booking a hotel room, please let us know your room preference (double or twin). Although we will make every effort to convey your request to the hotel, we cannot guarantee your preference will be available.

Check-in and check-out
You will usually be able to occupy your villa or apartment after 4pm and you must vacate it on the day of departure by 10am. Most of our hotels follow common practice with regard to check-in and check-out times (around midday); however some have later check-in times between 3pm and 5pm.

Cleaning
Self-catering accommodation is cleaned a minimum of twice a week (including arrival day) and some accommodation may be cleaned more often. Cleaning usually consists of a sweep, mop, bathroom and kitchen tidy up.

Distances and timings
Please note that all walking and driving times stated are approximate estimates only. Transfer times are also approximate estimates only and do not include any waiting time.

Half-board
Hotel bookings with half-board include dinner, which is usually a fixed menu with or without a choice of dishes. In some hotels, you may take your half-board meal at lunchtime.

Health and safety
Simpson Travel is committed to raising the standards of health and safety throughout all our destinations. Our guests’ safety and wellbeing is of the highest importance to us. However, please note that since many of our properties are private homes, it is not always possible to meet the same exacting standards as in the UK. In your accommodation we will provide any necessary health and safety information. We ask you to familiarise yourself with this information and the property on arrival, particularly when travelling with children, and to raise any concerns with your local representative.

Internet access and connection
If a property offers wifi or internet access, the type of connection may vary. Additionally, the signal could be intermittent at times and may not be available in all areas of the property. There may be a charge for internet use in some properties.

Linen and laundry
Bed and bathroom linen is provided and usually laundered twice weekly. For your convenience some of our properties have a washing machine.

Noise and building works
Traffic, farm work, roadwork, animals and other sounds form part of everyday life, however, what constitutes ‘noise’ to one person may not be a problem for another. Please let us know if you have any special needs regarding this. Occasionally, building work is unavoidable as we do not control such work and may not know about it in advance. Whenever possible, we will notify you of any work that we believe may affect your holiday.

Occupancy
Only guests named on your invoice are entitled to occupy the accommodation.

Plumbing
Throughout Greece, especially in the older houses, the plumbing system is not designed to have items flushed down the lavatory. Where necessary, bins are provided in all bathrooms.

Satellite television
We cannot guarantee that a full selection of satellite channels will be available. Channels in English may be very limited and these are often only CNN or BBC World.

Seasonal facilities
Some facilities are subject to weather conditions and the general season, for example swimming pools, restaurant terraces, pool bars, local restaurants, and they may be limited or unavailable at the beginning or end of the season. Please do not hesitate to check with us, should a particular facility be a necessity to you.

Security and cleaning deposits
For self-catering properties, we require you to lodge a security deposit against any breakages, damage, losses, extra cleaning or outstanding accounts, which you may have incurred during your stay and/or due to your negligence. This should be provided by credit or debit card at the time of booking by providing authorisation for us to deduct (within 14 days of your return home) any advised charges from your card. Most of our properties are the owners’ personal homes and repairs, replacements and extra cleaning can be very expensive, so we do ask you to take care in order to avoid incurring extra costs.

Swimming pools
Swimming pool details are given on our website. Pool dimensions are approximate only and, unless specified otherwise, pools are freshwater and unheated. In Paxos most pools are filled using ‘sweet water’, which is generally a mix of well water (with some salt content) and fresh water. Dates when pools are operational are subject to the prevailing weather conditions at the time of opening and closing and we cannot be held responsible if poor weather means the pool is opened later, or is closed earlier in the season.

Upon arrival at your accommodation, we kindly ask you to acquaint yourselves with the pool’s safety and hygiene rules. Very few pools have covers, fencing or life rings, so children must be supervised at all times. Some pools are ‘infinity pools,’ which have an exposed pool edge with an unprotected drop. This maximises views and is an attractive feature of the pool. We recommend that children are supervised and that you do not sit, lean or walk on the unprotected edge.

Villa owners
Whilst the owners or staff of some properties may live on site and tend to the grounds, they are aware that you value your privacy, and will do their best not to intrude. We do ask you, however, to allow them reasonable access to the property so that they can maintain the grounds and keep them in good order.

Welcome Pack
We offer a welcome pack in all our self-catering accommodation consisting of a small selection of staple items and local produce.