Villas stand out as one of the premier holiday rentals in Greece. When it comes to selecting a seaside retreat, it's crucial to be mindful of potential pitfalls that could dampen your vacation experience. Let's delve into the key mistakes to steer clear of.
1. Ignoring Your Vacation Style
This is a pivotal consideration when planning your trip, charting your route, and hunting for the perfect villa. It's essential to first define the composition of your vacation group and your expectations. Naturally, the holiday style of a couple differs from that of a group of friends or a family with children in numerous aspects, with accommodation being a fundamental one.
Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that the chosen villa aligns with your specific needs. For families with children, amenities like a cot, high chair, and play area are indispensable. Meanwhile, larger groups might appreciate features such as a barbecue area, swimming pool, and a TV for movie nights. This customization is one of the primary advantages of villa rentals - you have the freedom to tailor every detail to your preferences. We've previously explored this topic in-depth in another article comparing hotels and holiday cottages.
For instance, the Porto Maria cottage located on the first coastline in the tranquil town of Gerakini in Chalkidiki is ideal for families with children. Offering a serene and cozy environment, children can safely frolic on the sandy beach with crystal-clear waters. The cottage comfortably accommodates up to five guests and includes a designated cot for little ones.
2. Neglecting the Region and Location
Choosing the right region for your vacation is the next crucial step in holiday planning. The location and infrastructure surrounding your villa are just as important as the villa itself. For instance, romantic Santorini with its black and red beaches is perfect for couples. However, it might pose challenges for families with children due to numerous stairs, hills and limited children's activities. Mykonos, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, may not be the best choice for family vacations.
Another popular destination, the Halkidiki peninsula, caters to almost every preference. Here, you'll find charming villages, beach bars, and water activities aplenty. The key is knowing where exactly to rent your villa to ensure your expectations meet reality. To better understand which corner of picturesque Halkidiki suits you best, we recommend exploring our article.
In addition to selecting the right region, it's crucial to consider the location of the villa itself. How close are the beaches, taverns, and clubs? Do you prefer tranquility and seclusion or being in the midst of it all? Accessibility via public transport may be challenging in some areas, necessitating car rental.
Lastly, familiarize yourself with the surrounding landscape. Greece boasts diverse natural beauty, which should also factor into your decision. For families, sandy beaches devoid of sea urchins and flat terrain for strolling with strollers are ideal. Some areas offer forests for hiking, while others have rocky waterfronts, requiring specialized swimwear. It's prudent to research these details in advance to ensure your villa becomes the perfect vacation spot. For insights into Greece's beach holiday regions, check out our guide.
An excellent choice for group or family vacations is the Porto Thea Villa. Situated near the charming historic village of Afytos in Halkidiki, it's fully equipped for a comfortable stay. Gather on the terrace or spend time by the pool nearby, with all necessary amenities such as supermarkets, cafes, and taverns within walking distance.
3. Avoid Last-Minute Villa Searches
One of the primary mistakes in the realm of vacation rentals is waiting until the last minute to secure a villa. It's crucial to start the search and booking process well in advance. The most sought-after summer holiday accommodations in Greece can be booked as early as autumn. Hence, delaying the process is ill-advised, especially if you're eyeing a vacation during the peak season.
Moreover, booking early often translates to securing a more favorable price. For longer vacations exceeding three weeks, there's often room for negotiation with the management company, potentially resulting in a significant discount. Various other factors influence villa rental prices, as detailed here.
4. Checking on the Villa Provider
Another prevalent mistake when booking a holiday villa is disregarding the source of the rental. Villas fall into distinct categories based on the services they offer:
- Private Individuals' Villas. Typically priced lower, these rentals come with uncertainty regarding the final outcome, potentially not aligning with your expectations.
- Management Company Villas. Managed by a team of professionals who ensure the villa meets your requirements and handle any issues promptly. Additional services can be arranged, offering a seamless experience. For instance, Aktis Villas, a part of the Aktis Group, provides comprehensive support including transfers, car rentals, yacht reservations, Greek excursions, and ongoing assistance via a concierge or dedicated service.
- Villa Complexes. Often more affordable than hotel villas but pricier compared to those from management companies. This option may include breakfast.
- Hotel Villas. Typically the most expensive, with other vacationers as neighbors.
Understanding these distinctions aids in selecting a rental option that aligns with your holiday style and expectations.
How to Make the Right Choice?
Selecting the perfect holiday villa involves numerous details, which can be overwhelming to navigate alone. If you prioritize your time and seek assurance in your decision, our specialists at Aktis Villas will meticulously curate a property tailored to your preferences and ensure it's primed for your arrival.
Furthermore, you can see the extensive villa listings on our website categorized by region, capacity, and price range. Should you find decision-making challenging, simply relay your preferences through our online chat, and we'll guide you through the selection process.
