Origin Apts and Studios

Kardamena is a lovely little resort, and this hotel makes it easy to get around. Our basic room was clean, the small pool stayed clean too, and you don't have to pay for either sunbeds or air conditioning, despite what another review says. The bar stays open and can be noisy late into the night, though I still slept fine. What made our holiday, though, was the staff. They all made such an effort, even learning our names, and they were especially kind to our daughter, who is severely affected by learning difficulties, and helped her feel welcome. I'd recommend it if bar noise doesn't bother you.

Kos is beautiful, and we did find nicer places to spend time on the island, but Origins hotel was a disappointment. The rooms were passable and the shower wasn't great. There was loud thumping music around the clock, and the owner was rude and nasty to us, which really wasn't called for when guests are paying good money. We were charged 50 euros for air conditioning, 50 euros for a safe you can apparently open with a potato (there's a YouTube video, I'm not joking), and 25 euros a day for a poolside sun lounger. On arrival an almost naked girl greeted us and offered a shot of who knows what. The night manager, though, was fantastic, a true gentleman. The owner could learn from him. Halfway through the holiday, someone had apparently hit the owner, who had a spectacular black eye. The place had potential, which makes that a pity. We only had to stay there to sleep, and we'll visit Kos again, but won't stay at Origins.

The music from the bar, especially karaoke, can be loud, but after the first night I stopped noticing it. The staff are friendly and really accommodating with disabilities and special needs, which was brilliant for my sister. Great food and bar, and the pool is very clean and gets sun almost all day. Definitely planning to come back in a few years.

The bar drinks were 10/10, no question, and the workers might be a bit generous with the liqueur, which I didn't mind at all. Food wasn't the best, but there are plenty of places to eat within a five-minute walk. My room was at the front, above the bar, so I could hear the music. It was bearable with the air conditioning running and got quieter at around 1 am. The room itself was clean, with a small kitchen area, fridge, sink and cutlery. I had a bug issue on the first night, though I was there during bug season, and they moved me to another room within ten minutes. The staff were 10/10 and helped with any problems. I loved chatting with Lucy, George and Marcos (I think 😅). I really enjoyed the trip and would consider staying at origin hotel again if I return to Kos.