Anissaras, Lida Maria Apartments Review

Overall Rating

I shed a tear when I left the Lida Maria Apartments in Crete. In 2 weeks I met so many amazing people in Anisaras and Hersonissos. They are very, very nice people and it was a pleasure to be there enjoying the holiday with these people.

Unfortunately, the same can't be said for some of the older couples and family holiday-makers, who spoil holidays for others by moaning and making unnecessary comments.

Greece is raw, and different to back home. The accommodation is very nicely presented, but quite basic compared to England, but going on holiday is about adapting to your surroundings, and fitting in with the Greek way of life. Unfortunately, there are always people who complain. I even heard people complaining about the weather BEING TOO HOT!!

Unfortunately, the Lida Maria can attract families who moan at the slightest problem. The amount of people I heard complaining about trivial things was unbelievable. The main complaint was MOSQUITOES! The thing is, everyone knows Crete is a very hot climate and has a lot of mozzies at nigh time. It is the norm, so to complain is ridiculous. If you don't want them then go to Cornwall! I also find that families see the self-catering as "we should be able to cook a 3 course meal every night" - in Greece self-catering means eating out! Yes, the Lida Maria has 2 hobs, sink, kettle and the basic essentials, but it is for morning snacks and lunches, not gourmet dinners. The bars, restaurants and tavernas serve lovely food at good prices, so why anyone would want to cook inside in the heat is beyond me!

Maybe people should consider the above two points before going, and it would save a lot of hassle.

It is an ideal holiday for young couples, at an affordable price. The bar-man this year (2006) is a legend. Happy hour drinking throughout the day, and he cooks you his special 'toasties' if you ask, and he will also keep the bar open at night on a last-man standing basis! He is a very funny man and very welcoming. He also really has the hots for black women, so beware :)

Located at the top of Anisaras, it is the perfect location for going out to explore the neighbouring towns. A bus stop is a ten minute walk to the national road, where you can get to Hersonissos for 1 Euro 20, and also to the capital of Crete, Heraklion. There are also bus services to Malia for the more thicker skinned party animals. Obviously you can get taxis, and there is an excellent service running from Hersonissos. This year it is 6 Euros to Hersonissos and 16 Euro to Malia, which is better value for money than cabs in England.

I can honestly say, if you are a couple - young or old, who wants a lovely relaxing, chilled-out holiday, lounging around the pool all day, strolling down to the beach at the bottom of the hill and going out to Hersonissos in the evening, then having a laugh in the bar after; you will have a magical holiday like me and my girl-friend. Would I return to Anisaras? Definitely! I will visit the area next year when I return to Crete!

If you have booked, enjoy!

Members' Comments onseanw's Review

• anderson1234 on 29th Aug 2007

  I found this review helpful because... you get a fair view of the warmth of the resort and facilities available to you from someone who seems like they had a relaxing time. This also gives me an insight into the kinds of people who visit the Lida Maria.