Wondering what’s the best place to eat during your holidays in Greece? We are more than excited to present you the highlights of the most stunning Greek gastronomy ceremony, ”Golden Chef’s Hat”, held in Athens on Monday April 20th in the Ballroom of the hotel “Grande Bretagne”. Foreign journalists and ministers, as well as Greek tourism professionals shared their excitement for culinary experiences celebrating the best restaurants in Greece. As gastronomy is amongst the most authentic cultural elements of Greece, the ”Golden Chef’s Hat” awards, for the first time in 22 years, brought not one but two restaurants to the top of the Greek culinary scene. Read More
Corfu people are happy and easy to get along with. They are also full of artistic activities such as music, theatre, painting etc. Corfiots love beach life so here are some picks of Corfu beaches and their bars so you can enjoy holidays in Corfu to the max!
Glyfada’s incredible beach is easily the most popular on the island. It’s well organized with plenty of loungers, umbrellas and showers. A great choice for families, the water is shallow and crystal clear, while the lifeguards on duty offer some peace of mind for parents with young children. The Aloha Beach Bar is full of life and is home to great parties in the evening. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for young people who are starting their night with a cocktail.
Close by is the resort of Aghios Gordios, another well organized stretch of sand for people who want to try out some water sports or take some pictures. The long, sandy beach has plenty of loungers and parasols and the AloBar is worth the visit alone! Gorgeous view and really laidback, enjoying a cocktail here at sunset is the moment you know you’re on holidays.
If it is sun-soaked beers on the beach, boozing up on a city break, or shaking your booty all night long, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for with our Purple Travel top 10 Clubbing holidays 2014.
1. Ibiza When it comes to clubbing holidays, Ibiza is like a wise, old friend. It has them down to perfection. Boozing, dancing, beach parties and Ibiza clubbing holidays offer instant gratification. Head to Space, Amnesia and Manumission by night. By day, go straight from the club to Bora Bora, where you can keep your party spirit going.
2. Ayia Napa, Cyprus Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa is easily the most famous party location on the island. With soft, white sand, all night parties, booze, bikinis and the biggest name DJs, it ticks every best clubbing holiday 2014 box.
3. Sharm el Sheikh A night out in the Red Sea Resort usually includes shisha smoking, trendy lounges, cocktails and dancing all night. Basically anything can happen during clubbing holidays in Egypt. Head for Little Buddha in Naama Bay, famous for its cocktails and coolness.
4. Kavos, Corfu This one hardly needs an introduction, we’ve all seen that TV show. Kavos is possibly the most famous, craziest and hedonistic party town in Greece… maybe in the entire world, we reckon it could certainly rival Vegas in terms of debauchery. There are hundreds of bars and clubs where you can go shake your glow sticks all night long.
5. Barcelona Barcelona’s a cheap and cheerful choice for clubbing holidays 2014. There are tonnes of flights that’ll have you over in BCN and ready to party in no time. And thanks to the all-night attitude of the Spanish, there’ll be plenty of time to pub crawl, party and soak up the atmosphere. Head for the Ravel area for cool bars, hip restaurants and Barcelona’s cool kids.
6. Laganas, Zante The town on the Greek Island is practically world renowned for the antics of visitors every year. The so-called Golden Mile has a choice of bars and clubs with the likes of fire breathing bartenders, bartop dancing and an ‘anything goes’ attitude. Amnesia and Medousa are hot ticket clubs for 2014.
7. Prague, Czech Republic The gorgeous city of Prague is ideal for couples looking for clubbing ideas combined with a little culture too (!) There is a very hot underground scene with whiskey bars, cocktail lounges and all night DJs. Of course no trip to Prague is complete without knocking back a couple of pints of local ale. That’s the cure for the morning after the night before.
8. Magaluf, Majorca For cheap clubbing holidays 2014, Magaluf is a complete no brainer. There are serious dance nights, cheesey 80s bars, and Europe’s biggest club, BCM. It is home to some of the best party venues in Europe and has become an epic hen and stag do destination. If you go, get your hands on a Magaluf Club Pass. It’s one ticket for five of the hottest clubs in town.
9. Malia, Crete Think 18-30 clubs, foam parties, dancing on tables, pure indulgence. Get some sleep now, because you certainly won’t get any on a clubbing holiday in Malia 2014.
10. Berlin, Germany 24 hour techno clubs, old buildings transformed into dance warehouses and quirky, weird and unusual nights out are what Berlin is famous for. No wonder you can head out at 4pm on a Thursday and not get home until Monday afternoon.
Fancy shaking your booty with the best clubbing holidays 2014? Then call our disco ball-lovin’ team on 02079939228 or visit our website.
Not just a pretty face, the Greek Island of Corfu offers mouthwatering hotels Mediterranean cuisine, with a Venetian twist. After a long day soaking up the sunshine, what better way to spend an evening, than enjoying a home cooked meal of fresh fish, delicious vegetables and maybe a little tipple of local wine. Come find out more in our Corfu food guide.
This is the most popular of local Corfu dishes. Made of shanks of veal stuffed with chopped garlic, parsley, salt and pepper, and is also seasoned with a spicy red sauce.
Purple Tip: The locals say that the sauce is successful only if it can stand on a man’s moustache.
Thin slices of fried beef with a white sauce made of chopped garlic, parsley, white pepper, white wine, salt and vinegar. You can eat it either with rice and baked or mashed potatoes.
Purple Tip: Keep the necessary distances or you might knock someone over with garlic breath!
Kumquat is a citrus fruit which can be enjoyed in a variety of forms. The nicest and a Purple Travel team favourite, is as part of a mix of fine liqueur made with the fruit and peel of the kimquat.
Purple Tip: Have it as a digestif after a sumptuous meal or as a relaxing drink at your hotel’s terrace.
Book the best value cheap holidays in Corfu now with the Purple Travel expert team and save.
If there’s a beach bar or cocktail that you’ve been raving about, share it with us in the comments section below! Enjoy our tips for the best summer cocktails and where you can enjoy them.
1. Tiki Beach Cocktail & Music Bar, Benidorm Busy AND fantastic and slap, bang on the boulevard of the Levante Beach in Benidorm. Have a cool and sophisticated Sangria on its sunny terrace and soak up as much Spanish sunshine as you can.
2. Azul Lounge, Tulum, MexicoTequila, lime and a beautiful view. Where else to enjoy this lovely summer drink than in Riviera Maya’s own Azul Lounge in Tulum.
3. Daiquiri Palace, Magaluf Enjoy a delicious Daiquiri in a variety of flavours in the Daiquiri Palace in legendary Magaluf to get ahead for a brilliant night out in some of its famous clubs.
4. Blue Marlin, Ibiza This could just be the best Mojito of your life, (apart from actually visiting Cuba) on this amazing beach bar on Cala Jonda. It comes with a pretty decent sunset too.
5. Little Ochie, Manchester, Jamaica Perfect if you fancy indulging in some great seafood, this ramshackle little bar offers a true taste of local life, with plenty of great fish on the side. Enjoy some epic food with a Big Bamboo or a Dirty Banana.
6. Cavalieri Hotel, Corfu Climb up to the top floor of this town-house styled hotel and get a look in at the exceptional roof garden, where delicious cocktails are served. Try a sophisticated Barbecue Bourbon Bloody Mary with a view of the Old Fortress.
7. Lighthouse Beach Bar, Paphos Situated along Lighthouse Beach in Paphos, the Lighthouse Beach Bar is the best place to chill out with a mouthwatering Zombie cocktail.
8. Hula Hula Beach Bar, Hvar, Croatia Enjoy a pina colada in the footsteps of Beyonce and Jay-Z, apparently they’ve been seen stopping at the Hula Hula Bar and indulging in a drink or two. If it’s good enough for them…
For years now, Greece has been considered as one of the the hottest party locations in Europe and it’s easy to see why. Every summer the Greek islands are practically shaking from the wild crowds of party animals. So we’ve compiled our top 10 Greek Party Islands. Practice some moves, ’cause you’ll need ’em around these beach bars and clubs.
Maybe the most infamous of all the Greek Islands, although we’re open to correction on that, NOT. Mykonos guarantees endless fun, all night parties and brilliant club nights. Head for Super Paradise: nude friendly, fresh cocktails, a gorgeous beach and music all night. Couldn’t really ask for more could you?
2. Ios
Attracting young crowds from all over Europe, the island of Ios is home to excellent bars, cheap drinks and all night parties. It’s also got really good and really cheap accommodation, so is a good choice for a party holiday. Head for Kandi or Far Out on the beach as well as Orange Bar and Baru for shots and beers.
3. Corfu
Perfect for sun worshipping party peeps, Kavos is the all nighter capital of Corfu. You’ll get to know the staff in every bar, the reps who pull you out for shots, and maybe Tinchy Stryder and Professor Green who are both scheduled to play this summer. Basically you’ll probably have the time of your life.
4. Rhodes
Faliraki is legendary in terms of partying. Drenched in sunshine, Rhodes is filled with wild dancing, brilliant cocktails, cheap drinks and loads of fun. Head for the unmissable King Arthur’s Bar, where all the kings and queens assemble to kick off their night with a royal round of shots!
5. Crete
Thousands of party animals enjoy Malia clubbing holidays every year. Literally. Even the Inbetweeners got a look in! It’s got an excellent setup, great beach and lots of accommodation just a few minutes walk from the strip. There are epic bars and clubs there, we like buzzing nights out at Banana or Malibu, or the silent disco at Candy Club.
Load up on shots in Kardamena for an explosive start to your night out. Kos is a sleepy, beachy place by day, but comes to life with a bang after dark. We’re talking fishbowls and Jager Bombs on the cheap in every bar on the Strip. Head for the oldest club in Kos, Heaven before you leave – it’s been packing them in for 25 years.
7. Paros
A more laidback island than Mykonos, Paros is more chilled if you’re into lazy evenings by the beach, downing cocktails or beers. After a long day sunning yourself, head for Punda Beach Club in the southeast of the island for late night action.
8. Zante
Laganas has long been considered the hardcore clubbing capital of the Greek Islands, so if it’s not broke, why fix it? The (in)famous Zeros Club is famous for its hot bar staff, crazy bar games, dance routines and fire breathers. If you’re a serious party animal, definitely consider it.
9. Kefalonia
Kefalonia isn’t that most well known for partying, but there are some brilliant clubs if you know where to look. Stavento in Argostoli is synonymous with fun. Loads of tunes, all day boozing and dancing and special one off guests, it’s a good choice if you want to go wild and chill out a bit too.
10. Skiathos
Go to Skiathos in August, when the clubs will be full of half dressed visitors from all over the world who want to bump ‘n grind all night. Feeling it already? Add some of the best beaches in all of Greece and that’s pretty much the recipe for a perfect holiday.
If you’re looking for ideas for the fast-approaching May bank holiday, take a second to think about Greece. Not only is the weather heating up, there are great deals to be had because it’s early in the season, and in early May Orthodox Easter is well under way so you can immerse yourself in something really different. So, grab the chance and get a first hand experience of the Corfu’s customs and traditions.
Easter celebrations in Corfu are a really special experience for visitors. During this time, various aspects of Corfiot traditions come together. You’ll find pagan tradition, Orthodox faith, the Catholic community, Venetian influences and marching bands all blending in with the Corfu Spring.
During Holy Week (Megali Evdomada) visitors can experience the many events that take place, just bear in mind that many of these are religious ceremonies, and should be treated as such. The grand finale of the Corfiot Easter customs is the breaking of the ceramic jugs (kanatia).
This custom takes place in the Old Town of Corfu, where all the balconies and jugs are adorned with red ribbons. As soon as the bells of the first Resurrection ring at 12 o’ clock sharp, Corfiots throw the jugs filled with water off the balconies. The custom dates back to the Venetian occupation of the island. For the people of Corfu the breaking of the ceramic jugs signifies the end of winter, a new beginning and the birth of spring. Visitors usually keep a piece of the broken jug for luck.
Another Easter custom of Corfu is Mastela. According to the tradition, residents of Corfu put a wooden barrel tied with ribbons and myrtles outside their houses and urge passers-by to throw in some coins. At the end of the day, when the Resurrection bells ring, somebody has to dive in the barrel and take out the coins. Oh, we wouldn’t mind that job!
Also, because Orthodox Easter falls late this year, the lucky visitors of Corfu can celebrate the 1st of May (May Bank Holiday) in that all beautiful lush green scenery by having a picnic in the central Spianada square or on one of the superb beaches to soak up all the sun, sea and sand they can handle. Corfiots, and in general all Greeks, celebrate this day with excursions in the countryside or by the beach, so it would be a great chance to interact with the locals.
1.Pythagoreion and Heraion (Πυθαγόρειο και Ηραίο Σάμου) Samos Island The remains of the ancient fortified port Pythagoreio, as well as the Heraion, temple of the Samian Hera, have been listed among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in 1992.
2. Metéora(Μετέωρα) – Metéora, literally means “in the heavens above,” and you’ll realise why the moment you arrive. It consists of six Greek Orthodox monasteries built on huge natural sandstone rock pillars in central Greece. Metéora was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988.
3. Corfu Old Town (Παλιά Πόλη της Κέρκυρας) – The Old Town of Corfu Island features two forts designed by renowned Venetian engineers and is filled with neoclassical, as well as Venetian influenced buildings. It is considered to be home to some of the best and most authentic remaining ruins in the world. The Old Town of Corfu has been included among the UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in 2007.
4. The Acropolis of Athens (Ακρόπολη Αθηνών) – Quite possibly the most famous of the lot, the Acropolis is a huge collection of architecturally perfect buildings, natural landscapes, the historic and dramatic Parthenon and was the scene of some of ancient Greece’s most important moments. You shouldn’t leave Athens before you see one of the most important expressions of Greek architecture, listed among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites since 1987.
5. Olympia (Ολυμπία) – The ancient sanctuary of Olympia is famous for giving the name to the Olympic Games and as a sanctuary of the gods, Zeus in particular. In the Peloponnesos region, it was listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in 1989.
6. Mycenae(Οι Μυκήνες) – Thanks to the famous Lion’s Gate and Treasury of Atreus, the archaeological site of Mycenae has been listed as a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site since 1999. Found in the Peloponnesos region, it’s an important site dating back to the 15th and 13th century BC.
7. Delos(Δήλος) – Greek mythology tells us Delos was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis; so, the sacred island was one of the most important pan-Hellenic sanctuaries. Listed among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in 1990.
8. Ancient Theater of Epidaurus (Αρχαίο Θέατρο Επιδαύρου) – The excellent acoustics and almost perfect condition gave the ancient theater of Epidaurus a place among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in 1988. It’s a highlight to visit and enjoy a performance with the crowds in summer.
9. Delphi (Δελφοί) – In 1987, the sanctuary of Delphi, where the oracle of Apollo spoke, and was once called the ‘naval of the world’, was included among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.
10. Rhodes Μedieval Town (Μεσαιωνική πόλη της Ρόδου) – The Medieval Town of Rhodes, also known as the Town of Knights, was once a great stronghold where knights fell and bitter battles fought. It is an outstanding example of an architectural heritage illustrating the island’s history. Rhodes Town was listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in 1988.
Get the best deal for cheap holidays on your favourite historic holiday of discovery right now from Purple Travel. Call today on 0207 993 9228 for more.
The queen of the Ionian Sea, Corfu is one of the greenest of the Greek islands, thanks to intermittent rains from September through May. Its landscape is comprised of thousands of olive trees making for a much more rural appearance that many other touristic spots in the country. Its combination of beautiful beaches and warm waters, with a fascinating history (not to mention great food), make it one of our top selling destinations.
Corfu is best visited from Easter until October, though many resort hotels only work from May to September. We recommend mid-May to June, when discounted room rates, better taverna service and moderate weather make for an all-round superior trip. July and August are warmer, but also more crowded and expensive.
To get the most out of Corfu holidays, read on for our travel guide, including recommendations from the experts at Nelios.com (Greece’s leading e-tourism agency) and from our own Sales Team who specialise in holidays to Greece and its islands.
Beaches in Corfu
Kerasia – the quiet one
Kerasia Beach is a calm cove, with a long, sweeping beach, which lies between Kouloura and Agios Stephanos. The beach may not have many amenities, with just one tavern amongst a handful of villas, but its peacefulness and relaxed atmosphere are beyond compare. Its privacy also makes it a celebrity favourite; the Rothchild’s have a house there and Prince Charles and Lord Sainsbury are regulars.
Sidari – the traditional one
Sidari, two little villages connected by a beautiful stretch of sand, is an excellent choice for those who enjoy swimming and a piece of traditional life on the island. And if you’re travelling as a couple, one of Sidari’s most famous landmarks are the unique cliff formations known as canal d’ amour (French for the channel of love). Legend has it that if a couple swim together in its water, they will be forever in love.
I recommend Sidari for swimming or diving (it’s an amazing place!) and Corfu Town for a night stroll… Paxi island is also great for a day cruise.
Maria Tsekoura, Content Writer at Nelios.com
Glyfada – the pretty one
Glyfada Beach is by far the most beautiful on Corfu. Surrounded by a fine selection of tavernas and bars, you can easily spend all day here. The beach is made up on soft sands, making it a great choice for those with young children too.
Things to Do in Corfu
Rent a Car
As much of the tourist development on Corfu holidays is isolated to the coastal patches, travelling inland is much like travelling to a completely different island, or perhaps even in a different era altogether. Secondary roads in Corfu appear not to have changed at all since British times. Renting a car is a must if you wish to see more of the rural landscapes and perhaps even take a picnic with you to make a day of it.
I recommend renting a car, pick a nice sunny day and your other half and go to one of the tallest mountains in Corfu and enjoy the breathtaking view. I know I did.
Georgios H. Kafataridis, Support Department at Nelios.com
Take a Walking Tour of Corfu Town
Corfu was the island that offered shelter to Homer’s Odysseus and allowed Poseidon to indulge his love for Amphitrite in Greek mythology. Today the island inspires the same creativity and love, with its cultural diversity and stunning scenery. The best way to see the most interesting parts of Corfu Town is to take a walking tour.
Corfu town is a welcome mix of old and new, having been owned in the past by both France and Britain, there are distinct influences of its historic past in the architecture, atmosphere and local produce. It feels more like a French or Italian town rather than a Greek one, particularly in the square of the Esplanade, known as the Spianada. This square was first planned by the French, but is also encircled with beautiful Italian style buildings and even an old Venetian fortress known as the Old Fort, which features a small museum of Corfu’s history and an art gallery of traditional paintings. On a walking tour, you’ll pass a 19th century park and esplanade that is one of the largest plazas in all of Europe, Liston Street, the home of all that famed Venetian Architecture and the spectacular neoclassical Palace of St George and St Michael.
Visit Pelekas
Pelekas is a lovely village that with a great deal to offer tourists. Sandy beaches, tavernas, olive groves, nightlife and more make it well-worth a visit, whether you wish to stay in the resort or spend a day here. You’ll find some of the island’s finest traditional food and drink, enjoyed aside wonderful views from its hilltop location.
The scenic and infamous village of Pelekas, in southwestern Corfu is situated on top of a hill offering panoramic views all over the island. The village is nestled amidst lush greenery and here you can totally relax admiring the sun setting over the deep blue waters of the Ionian Sea. For exceptional views and unique pictures visit the Kaiser’s Observatory to experience the ultimate sunset, as the German Emperor William II used to do, or Hotel Levant’s café for a refreshing drink as well.
Eleni Dimou, Content Writer at Purple Travel
Food and Drink in Corfu
At Purple Travel, we think Corfu holidays are all about the food and drink, and we’re certain you’ll feel the same after a trip there. Long gone are the soggy chips and cold moussakas of the old days, modern Corfiot food is fresh and exciting and produced mainly using locally-grown ingredients. From traditional tavernas to fine dining seafront restaurants, you’re certain to find ample choices of eateries on the island.
I recommend you to go on Fridays evenings at Lemon Garden Restaurant in Acharavi for the “Greek Night” with live music and dancers and drink minimum a “Lemon Pie” cocktail.
Luca Mitrea, Sales Advisor at Purple Travel
A drink in the famous Cavalieri Hotel is a must-do. This stunning 17th century hotel has long been a meeting point for writers, actors and poets, statesmen, businessmen and leisure travellers Having once belonged to the family of Count Flamburiari, it reopened as a hotel in the mid ‘60s, becoming one of the first luxury hotels in Corfu.
If you go to Corfu, you must try pastitsada and sofrito at Bellissimo Restaurant. If you don’t you can’t say you’ve been there!
John Ropas, Senior Developer at Nelios.com
Book your cheap holiday to Corfu today by calling Purple Travel on 0207 993 9228.
Congratulations to Alison Campbell! She is the winner of our fantastic holiday giveaway to Corfu!
Alison won a holiday for two to the beautiful island of Corfu in July 2011 for a week. She will be staying at the Seafront Apartments in Kavos, the same hotel Grant & Cynthia stayed in during our Video Invasion of Corfu.
The hotel is owned by Kostas and Spiros, who are responsible for those crazy jetski adventures! Located right on the beach in Kavos, you just can’t go wrong.
Watch out for our next competition or prize draw to win your very own holiday for two!
Images via @athinorama
Pina Colada via @ 
