Today's post is a guest post by Craig Gilhooly. Neon lights, loud music and a beach background. All vital ingredients of a summer party holiday. There are many destinations around the world that will offer you all this and more, yet one that is hugely popular, thanks to its Club 18-30s status, is Laganas, in the south of Zakynthos. (Photo "Blue Sea at Zakynthos" by Keurslager)
Greece is a godsend for summer holidays, thanks to virtually guaranteed sun and hot, hot temperatures. Flights head to the island, also known as Zante, regularly throughout summer, with some great deals to be had, either through a package holiday or a DIY break organised yourself. Whatever you choose, be sure to check out airport extras, which go a long way to making your travel plans cheaper and stress-free. I have recently discovered the wonders of airport hotels, and if you have an early flight, I’d really recommend booking one. If you’re heading out of Gatwick, you’ll find a large range available, including the Hilton at Gatwick which my friend swears by, and the Sofitel Heathrow, where I have stayed in the past and wouldn’t hesitate to do so again.
You’ll need all the energy you can get before you head to Laganas, because once you’re in resort, it’s action-packed all the way. Of course, you can choose to chill away your hours on the beach, which is certainly something I’d be doing. Laganas beach is large and often busy, but a great place to top up that tan. Bear in mind however that there are no water-sports on this beach, as it’s a nesting ground of endangered loggerhead turtles.
There are many excursions on offer, but one you must do is a boat trip, and if possible, one that goes to Shipwreck Beach in the north of the island. This is probably the picture you will have seen in holiday brochures, with blinding blue sea and white sand. Trips leave regularly from Laganas, so be sure to get on one, as you won’t regret it. A day’s floating around the coastline, topping up that tan and checking out the beautiful scenery is worth every Euro. (Photo "Deep Blue Sea 2" by jansun)
Of course, most tourists go to Laganas for the night-life, and you won’t be disappointed. It’s loud, brash, bright and certainly energetic, with plenty to choose from. Before you do hit the clubs, I would suggest lining that stomach! No matter what your taste, you’ll find something, with fast food and international dishes available everywhere. If you can, try some traditional Greek food, especially moussaka, as it’s delicious and fresh.
When your meal has digested, it’s time to party, party, party!
A holiday to Laganas will not be a restful one if partying is on your agenda, and for most that head there, this is what they’re seeking. However, the area is undeniably beautiful and worth exploring, so be sure to get out of bed in the day at some stage, and have a look around! To save on a few hours’ sleep, and a lot of stress, I can’t recommend the airport parking idea highly enough. Most major airports offer facilities, including all London airports. If you’re heading out of Heathrow, check out the range available, including the Premier Inn Heathrow Airport, offering fantastic rates.
Laganas is party-central, all with a stunningly beautiful background – perfect for a summer holiday to remember.
