Hotel Nautilus Villa (Fira, Greece)

Accommodation is very pleasant, spacious and obviously well maintained. The real advantage is that it is peaceful and quiet - but within walking distance of the busy town.Plus, the bus stop is only a couple of blocks away and from there; you can get anywhere … very cheaply. The views, sunrises and sunsets are simply stunning.

Members of staff do their utmost to ensure an enjoyable stay. It's not always easy because ‘you' can't speak ‘their' language. They do, though, pull out all the stops to ensure that you have all the detail you need for an enjoyable and rewarding holiday. If necessary, they'll even drive you into town … it's that sort of place.

Breakfast is impressive and enhanced by this setting. If transport is a problem, you can arrange shuttle trips to the port area and airport.

One vital area is the airport shuttle. When the pre-arranged shuttle is absent from the airport … you worry about what else might be missing. Not all the room facilities are automatically included; you have to go and ask for them. You need to plan ahead. There are no shops nearby so food supplies incur a car/cab journey. Also, the apartment begs for a kitchen/food preparation area, but there isn't one.

The beds are hard and uncomfortable, although that's a matter of taste. It sounds idyllic, but some accommodation is near the street and subject to noise.

Flies and other insects are an accepted inconvenience, but an irritating one. You can bring deterrents with you or stock up locally. Either way, it needs perseverance … to lord it over these flies.