Practical information : Accomodation Cyclades
Budget & Tips
The best plan, when you have the choice, is always to travel in June or September, when prices melt or before the summer inflation (which can, in some places, vary from simple to triple...). If you spend one or more nights in Athens before going to the Cyclades, on the other hand, prices do not change much and remain quite high, unless you negotiate beforehand at the time of booking (and if the period is low). Without being a Greek specificity, it is important to know that the Airbnb platform has developed enormously, including in the most touristic islands, to the great displeasure of the local population which struggles to find accommodation. The competition is tough for the traditional hotel business, because these are often apartments rented for tourist purposes, so they are cheap and quite well equipped. Finally, you should know that many hoteliers still offer discounts in exchange for cash payment. We try to avoid this, but it does exist.
To be booked
It is often imperative to book between July 15 and the end of August, at least in the most touristic areas. From one week to another, some prices vary from simple to double, or even more... And, above all, there are places, especially on the coast, where you can find yourself with nothing!
What's very local
They remain a specificity of the islands: you will still find some family pensions and especially domatia (rooms) in private homes. Some hosts wait for the ferries with their signs. In addition to lower rates than in most hotels, this is often an opportunity to meet people and make nice connections. If you stay there, look around and you will probably spot some regulars!
For food lovers
Breakfasts are rarely the highlight of Greek gastronomy. Among the mistakes not to be made, be careful with the word "toast" which will often mean "croque-monsieur" and not "toast" for your interlocutor... On the other hand, try without moderation yoghurts sprinkled with honey (home-made if possible) or homemade jams, or take some fruit. Paradise is often found in these small details.
Smokers
After years of laxity, Greece is beginning to enforce, or at least announce, no-smoking laws in restaurants. In hotels, be sure to scrupulously respect the smoking ban in the rooms. But to the delight of smokers, many rooms have balconies (or even views, which makes the effort to go outside much more tolerable).
Tourist traps
You may be tempted to follow a private individual with a sign for a guesthouse or even a room. This is not necessarily a bad idea, but be sure to ask for photos, the price and especially the distance to the accommodation before getting into a vehicle.