San Stefanos Online ~ North West Corfu

Okay - let's do it for the hundredth time.

I totally agree that Thomson treat the owners like peasants. For example, refusing to let them know the room bookings until too close to the time - less than a week, usually.

But - and it's a big but - without the brochure and on-line visibility of Thomson the village would be about 25% the size. The apartment owners do not have aeroplanes, ABTA certification, advertising, shops and all the other things that tour operators have. All this comes at a cost. How many times do we see messages on this forum asking how to get in touch with hotel/apartment owners?

The key point - it seems to me - is that Thomson promote and introduce people to the village. Then, perhaps, they want to go back making their own way. Is there enough critical mass for that to survive?

They sell it in the supermarkets!

Little Prince FEB are very good.

I really don't like kids running around the tables. It has been known for me to take issue with friends and relatives for not stopping them. That's all. The vast majority are well-behaved.

It's a parent problem, really.

The difference, as I understand it, between Albania and Greece is a line on the map. Nothing more. The Ionian region extends right up into what is now Albania.

The peoples of the Ionian region are not related to the Greeks of the Classical era. So, basically, all the local Greeks are Albanian, and all Albanian's are Greek.

Love those Albanian baked-bean toasties! Really genuine.

I always have the traditional Greek frozen chips.

Les Shark Boy - Some people go for the weekend!

Your first impression will probably be: what's the fuss about?

Then you will start to get the point - relax - enjoy the welcome - enjoy the views and the beach.

On your second trip everybody will remember you.

On your third trip you will be embraced in super markets, tavernas, bars and by the sun-bed renters.

On your fifth trip you'll be part of the family!