ELMO-KO TRAIN TINGAKI

The red train, which boards at the Tigaki roundabout in the main square.  If you are not staying in this resort it is only a short distance from Kos Town, by taxi, and the local bus service runs regularly.  You could make it a sightseeing/beach day, if you go on one of the morning excursions.  You will then have your afternoon free in Tigaki to spend on the beautiful golden beach, and/ or in one of the many fantastic restaurants/snack bars in this resort.  The times are as on this sign/notice (BELOW)

It even runs in the evening, a little MOON-LIT sight-seeing and dinner afterwards, perfect!

It is a full 1hour 30 minute journey, allowing you 30 minutes in Pili to visit the springs/churches/traditional house/main square and hand made jewellery/ceramic/art shops(2)....





Finally, an excursion where it doesn't matter how many children you have with you......(under 10), you pay 10 EURO PER ADULT   well worth the money.  A pleasant way to see the open road, countryside, quaint villages and relax and enjoy the ride, at a holiday pace.  There are also leaflets available, which describes in detail, where the train takes you on its' tour, and gives you a little in sight to some of the remarkable  history of Kos.  Useful information about the resorts that you will be passing through and visiting.

Your stop in Pili, where you can walk to the natural spring with six water fountains, apparently if you drink from all of them it will help you conceive.  Well, I gave that a miss, 4 children are quite enough thank you!

There is also a traditional house which you can visit and take photo's of for a small entrance fee.

 

The small church was open during our visit, so we lit some candles....

There are many beautiful churches on the island of Kos, and quite a few of them are situated in Pili.

Half an hour is almost not enough time...(especially if you are with a hand ful of children!)  There is soo much to see.  You can of course relax in one of the traditional coffee houses or small tavernas in the central square, or by the fountains, OR......for us ladies especially (make sure you've brought some money with you), there are two handmade jewellery/ceramics.art gallery/ shops right in the centre.

Selling something a little different to the normal style tourist shops, one of  a kind pieces, paintings, sketches, statues......etc...etc......I needed at least half an hour in each shop.......!

My favourite, I am sure it's a woman holding a man up..................................................................................................


So whilst you are shopping the men can sit and have a beer, children can enjoy an ice-cream in the square.....

and then back on the train again, and let the gentle breeze caress your hair!


Generally in my experience any of the train rides in and around Kos, and the Island Tours are well worth it. 

WHY?   If you take a ride, trip during your first few days on the island, you are able to get a little taste of an area/resort/village, and then if you are thinking about car hire or wish to use the public transport you then have the opportunity to re-visit the places that you found interesting/enjoyed/ or simply fell in love with!

So would I recommend it YES..!..
Would I go again YES.....!
AND IS LISA,  (WHO TAKES YOUR MONEY AND GIVES YOU AN ELMO-KO MEDAL TO WEAR FOR YOUR ENTIRE  JOURNEY), A LOVELY GIRL.......YES!

MASTIHARI RESORT & A BEACH ALONG THE WAY- TAM TAM!!!

Yes, I know it's August and Greece is usually  hot at this time.....however, it's still toooo hot, as I find myself sweltering in the kitchen (no air-conditioning in here), I must be mad!

This week has seen us on the road (all the family) to Mastihari, (it was a National Holiday, to celebrate the Virgin Mary).  So off we went (15-20 mins in the car from Kos Town) to the  beautiful  fishing port in the centre of the island.  A long sandy beach, and plenty of snack bars and restaurants to choose from.  Many specialising in Fresh Fish.  The perfect resort for those of you wishing to experience the wonders of Greece.  Ideal if you also planning on island hopping too.


The beach in Mastihari, is long and sandy.....perfect for long walks, and there is a Water sports centre further along, for those wishing to windsurf, and a path which is lit at night for those that would like to enjoy a moonlit stroll!  I walked along it in temperatures of 40 degrees, didn't get very far, spent the rest of the time in the sea, trying to cool off!

Lunch at El Greco, (restaurant/taverna on the beach) a huge menu, catering for every ones tastes.  Wonderful Greek plates both small and large, if you would like to try a little of everything.  Specials of the day, delicious desserts, and ice cream galore.  You can't miss it with the colourful, artistic boards!

The port is directly opposite the main harbour of Kalymnos, (famous for it's sponge divers), a smaller island less than 30 minutes across the sea.  Small ferries/boats go on a regular basis, and a ticket office on the harbour itself.

There are some larger hotels close by (some new ones being developed), but if you are looking for traditional accommodation, there are plenty of rooms to let by the day/night.  Again if you are looking to stay in Mastihari,  I can contact of few friends in the area who will be able to recommend apartments for your stay.

Moving on, Tam Tam can be found (the turning), directly opposite the Water park, a little country road will lead you right to it.

 A perfect stopping place for a light snack, evening meal, drink......there is even a small shop selling all kinds of unusual jewellery, and interesting pieces, even clothes.

Open also through the evening, great music and atmosphere, overlooking the sea.

or relax in the deck chairs, there is a children's play area too.....

and there are sunbeds and umbrellas on the beach, for you to soak up the sun.  Everything you need for a perfect day out!

NEPTUNE HOTEL IN MASTIHARI - KOS ISLAND

BASICALLY ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS SEARCH NEPTUNE KOS & WOW!!!

Certainly one of my favourites on the island, I don't in fact know where to begin, it has everything.....from a beautiful setting, ideal for children, separate kiddies play area/swim area.....soooooo many pools, jacuzzi, spa, salons shops...and...and...AND I want to book myself in for the next month.....(just need to find the money to do so!)

Full board hotel accom available, half board and self catering apartments too.....

I think I must have taken at least fifty photographs, and that was just of the botanical gardens, flowers, and scenery.  Neptune Hotel is located in a  perfect position, situated by the sea, accommodation gently spread out around the vast pool areas, gardens, and some apartments overlooking the sea & spectacular views, and amongst the surrounding countryside. 

We loved the Cold Bath (which of course has a posh name, which I've forgotten), helps the circulation and all sorts of medical conditions, but for us, so nice to be cool!  As with temperatures well into the 100's, even the sea is like a hot bath at the moment!

I could go on and on, about this hotel, it is pretty amazing.  There is also a taverna and several restaurants and bars on site too, and when you've eaten in all of them, a gym, exercise programme everyday.  Entertainment....of course and Animation Teams/Kiddies Clubs.

OF COURSE if you are staying in this hotel (or wish to)...YOU STILL MUST HOP ON A BUS AND GO INTO KOS TOWN (and try one of the many wonderful bars/restaurants there too....for example 'The Fish House'...!.......to name one).  Or into the beautiful small port of Mastihari, which is a few minutes away.

We love the mythological 'art' featured in the grounds of Neptune........

The gardens are.............

Not to mention the wildlife reserve close to the main beach and the turtles....

AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST MY DAUGHTER ON THE WAY HOME.....

having tried out every pool, park and walked around  the whole complex for a few hours....!!!

A PERFECT DAY....AN AMAZING HOTEL, CHECK IT OUT.....

http://www.neptune.gr/

BRAVO BEACH - ON THE WAY TO MASTIHARI.....KOS ISLAND

THIS HEATWAVE SEEMS TO BE GOING ON FOREVER.....

We've spent most of the time submerged in water, trying to cool down.  An idyllic (if i blank out the sand fight witch ended up with hysterical tantrums and temporary blindness), at BRAVO BEACH, everything that it says on the signpost and more!

You'll find it on the road that leads to Mastihari,  before you reach the Water park. The turning that also leads to the Neptune Hotel & several others JUST head for the sea (parking available).

A beautiful spot to spend the day, or even a romantic evening, (beautiful sunsets & atmospheric lighting).    Bravo Beach offers a wide range of snacks, divine cuisine, beverages.....and crepes...mmmm and much more!  Perfect for children also, with a large trampoline on the beach, and plenty of shade too and open space for them to play.

the girls having fun on the trampoline!

Michelle & Dimitris and their lovely children/now young adults,  (and dog), will make you feel welcome, and there are sunbeds and umbrellas too if you wish to rent them on the beach.   Even table and chairs if you wish to eat and drink actually by the sea with the sound of the waves lapping, (or if it's too hot and you really cannot be bothered to move!), waiter service of course!

Really worth a visit, and away from the hustle and bustle......

The beach leading from the taverna.....

GOLDEN BEACH, OCTOPUS AND HUGE YELLOW THINGS!!!

GOLDEN BEACH


If you are looking for a quieter beach, still with sunbeds, but not too packed, and just off the beaten track, you'll find this beach on the back road  in between Kos Town and Tigaki . The cost of 2 beds and an umbrella is 5 euro.  Or of cause you can take your own umbrella or sun tent.   Although there aren't any shops around for a few miles, you can purchase ice cold drinks there.  The sea is beautiful, the sand is golden.

We watched a fisherman with his catch of octopus for the day, about 15....(over 100 euros worth!), slap them with sticks, batter them, strip the ink out, and then tie them to the rocks to get c  lean and soft, whilst the waves were gently caressing them.  Up until the Blue Star came past, then they were crashing against the rocks and crushed!!!.  The fishermen certainly work hard for their catch/money, it took well over an hour for this process.  The octopus would then be put out into the sun to get even softer, ready for a taverna to grill in the evening.  I'm sure the customers would find them delicious and tender.

Whilst on your journey through the back roads you will notice fields full of vegetables, and fruit trees.  In season and popular at them moment are huge pumpkin's/yellow courgettes, which are very tasty, and big enough to feed the whole family for a week!

A favourite and easy recipe for wonderful fried pumpkin balls which is taken from the Original Greek Cooking Book (which i swear by, a selection of authentic recipes, which are easy to follow)

1 kilo of Corgettes/Pumpkins

4 eggs

250 gr grated feta cheese

frying oil

1/2 teacup of parsley, (some dill is also nice)

1 teacup of plain flour

salt and pepper to taste

Basically clean the and grate the yellow things, and grate them, mash a little with a fork.

Add parsley (optional dill), feta cheese, beaten eggs,salt and pepper, mix.

Add and blend the flour slowly.

Heat the oil in frying pan, shape the mixture in balls and flatten them out slightly, fry on both sides.

Drain and lovely hot or cold, with a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side, or garlic/potato dip.

MMMMMMM easy peasy![

CATCHING UP....ON BLOGGING.....A PEDICURE.....

Before jetting off to England, I treated myself (the first time in my life) to a pedicure.  The truth being, having spent a great deal of time bare foot in the garden, walking and jogging, not only were they aching, but in desperate need of some love and attention (and hard skin removal, yuck!!!)  Having tried with pumice stones and other 'wonder' products on the market had almost given up hope. 

By the way natural pumice stones can be found all over Kos beaches due to the Volcanic island of Nissyros opposite.  So well worth picking up a few and packing them in your suitcase, make good gifts too (and cheap!!!)

Anyway, Sylvia a wonderful Dutch lady who has uprooted her husband and beautiful family over to Kos to start a better life, worked her magic, and I actually had presentable feet/toenails for the first time that I can actually remember!

A relaxing hour of massage, in the massage chair, which was amazing.  Had to laugh when it started doing things to my bottom though, was a bit concerned that it was malfunctioning.....certainly put a smile on my face though, and would highly recommend it!!!

Feet soaked, gently scrubbed, moisturised, and of course toe nails painted beautifully, in fact I didn't even recognise them as my own afterwards.  Certainly worth 25 euro, I was there more than an hour, and she painted my daughters fingernails for free!

A lovely lady, gorgeous office just on the main Kanari Street, (Kos Town),practically opposite the school there, and near to the Elmo bakery.  Pass by make an appointment, or phone.....her husband designed and made all the furniture inside to, and is very talented and available for home design and furniture making, what a team!

By the way this photo, doesn't do the furniture justice, and I can't believe I have lost Sylvia's business card (well actually I can, it is probably somewhere in the bottom of one of my over-size handbags), so I'll get back to you on that one -  with her telephone number etc. 

It would also  make a good birthday present for someone....a special treat....(Mines in February!!!)

A HOT SUMMERS DAY IN KARDAMENA BY THE SEA....!!!

KARDAMENA

First stop was down in the harbour where all the tourists were off on trips this morning ( the volcanic island of Nissiyros, just opposite Kardamena).  We however, were going on the little Green Train, which takes you out on the beach roads of Kardamena, with historical and geographical commentary about the area, as well as local traditions, festivals and religious holidays.  Plus a bit of da dom, da, da,da da dom.....Zorba's!  Times are subject to change....today we even picked up a bride and her wedding group!

Kardamena long ago was a  fishing village, (still is) however, over the years has been built up and is now one of the main tourist resorts on the island.  Beautiful sandy beaches, exclusive (and sadly many inclusive) hotels, and adored by the English.  Once known as a rather boozy resort in years gone by, and often publicised in this light, is now far more refined, with some excellent restaurants/tavernas, coffee bars plus with the added bonus of some of the best night spots/clubs on the island too.

We stopped off to see a friend (Julie, pictured right) who recently opened up a new business 

AS YOU LIKE IT, a sandwich & salad bar....(although we had the health option.....curly fries - can't find them in Kos Town???)!  A massive sandwich selection, jacket potatoes, homemade burgers, salads, wraps, smoothies, crepes, juices, slush puppies, and more!   You can eat in (seats outside to) or take away.  Even  delivery....perfect!  If you are on the beach and have no energy to move from your sunbed! (22420 91333) - or living/working in Kardamena in the summer with no time for cooking!

Julie always has special offers on, for workers, holiday makers, chances to win free tickets to clubs, water sports even an airline ticket.  So check her out.  (They are on Facebook too).  Well worth a visit and she always has a smile......(plus I love her shoes, one green, one red!)

So after pigging out at lunchtime( it was meant to be D-Day today), we finally headed off to cool down in crystal clear waters, the temperatures in Kos have been soaring once again, and even with the 'hot' wind today it was 40 degrees.....

Kardamena has some beautiful beaches, if you like busy, they're are the one's just off the harbour area, with beach bars, and if you like the more deserted kind (like us), it's a few minutes drive out of the main centre.  The beach where we were was quiet, golden sand and we had great fun looking in all the rock pools, finding crabs, shrimps and fish!

                                       A PERFECT DAY!