Avra Alykes resort

We love Greece and visit most years, often staying in two-star places without any problems. This trip, booked through TUI because we could fly from a local airport, was supposed to be a treat after illness and a long, wet winter. We’d planned to relax by the pool, but Avra Studios left us disappointed. We spent most of our time and money elsewhere and used the room mainly to sleep, when the birds let us. Our room was in the annexe across the road from the buildings shown on the TUI site. It was dated, with a poorly equipped kitchen and a stepped bath that was awkward to use because of the tap position. There was no shower curtain, so water ended up all over the floor. The tiny balcony had no view and wasn’t big enough to sit or eat outside together. We had to ask for a hairdryer and TV remote. The first hairdryer was burnt out and had an English plug, the remote didn’t work, and the TV only worked if we wiggled the plug in its socket. When we arrived on a quiet Sunday, one of just two couples there, we were handed a key and told, “Room 14, second floor, across the road.” No welcome, and nobody offered to help with our bags, though we’re in our mid to late sixties. We paid the holiday tax then and got eye rolls when we asked for a signed receipt. That turned out to be useful, since they asked at checkout whether we’d paid it. Birds were nesting between the ceiling and roof. After two nights of scratching and noise, we asked to move, but were told the place was full, even though it was only the second week of the season. The room was otherwise clean, apart from a few small blood spatters from squashed mosquitoes on the wall and wardrobe. Our linen and towels were changed three times during the week, which we think must have been a mistake. The pool was lovely, and we swam most mornings. It was funny watching everyone rush down around 9am to reserve loungers with towels. The setting is peaceful on the edge of town, though nearby countryside means cockerels crow and dogs bark, so bear that in mind if those sounds bother you. Bring a tea towel, washing-up liquid, and a sponge, as none are supplied. The bathroom has two tiny hand soaps. You get what you pay for, but even for a budget break this holiday didn’t match its description.

We were charged twice for many items, and because they appeared on the bill as letters, they said they couldn’t refund us. The pool stairs gashed my son’s finger, and on her first day another woman also got a chunk taken out of her head. The main woman behind the bar was very rude. She burst into our room while I was using the bathroom to check that everything was fine. My mother-in-law’s bathroom was a disaster too, with a cracked basin and a huge crack down the toilet. In my view this place isn’t even two stars. I wouldn’t come back even if I were paid!

The pool is a great size, and the pool bar has a good range. Rooms are typically Greek, but all have air conditioning. It’s a great spot, about a 10-minute walk into town.

The pool area was lovely and kept in good shape, and the bar service was excellent with friendly staff. It’s a 10-minute walk to the beach. The room was functional, with minimal kitchen equipment and no shower curtain. That didn’t bother us since we don’t go on holiday to cook our own meals.