We have just returned from a fortnight in Santorini with the first week spent in Kamari (second week in Oia - see review on Nostos Apartments).

Santorini is amazing and without doubt I would recommend spending time in Oia as the resort is magical. The first weke in Kamari was very different but equally as good.

Hermes Hotel - Situated just up one of the roads leading to the beach front, this hotel is situated in the perfect location as away from the sound of mopeds and bustle of the beach. The hotel itself is fairly small which is so much better than something like the 'Kamari Beach' which is on the beach front and downright ugly. The room we had was fairly basic but very clean and we had no complaints. The pool is also good and we enjoyed the fact that the pool-side bar served drinks and food al day which was convinient for a quick bite to eat during the day if we were around the pool. The staff were superb and particularly the guys behind the bar were really friendly. Breakfast was fine, cheese, ham, bread rolls, eggs, museli, yoghurt and fruit - fairly normal stuff but lots of it available. For the price we paid this hotel was spot on and no complaints. If we went back to Kamari we would stay at Hermes again but maybe book a more luxurious room in the main building (overlooking the pool).

Dining - The selection of restaurants in Kamari is good but the majority serve the typical Greek fair wich is great for a few nights but maybe a bit 'samey' in a week. We found a new place called 'Remy' which wasn't busy (as it was fairly new) but served great food with a twist on traditional Greek food. Service was great and I would recommend anyone to give it a go (don't be put off by the lack of customers as is it slightly more than the Taverna's to eat there but well worth it!). We tried a place called 'Atmosphere' one night which was reputed to be slightly classier, however we must have completely chosen the wrong night. As there was only a few diners we expected good service but then the owner of the restaurant sat down with 5 of his friends and the two waiters/waitresses who were serving then proceeded to serve only his table all night. we were left waiting for ages to get our order, not even offered dessert and then waited 30 mins for our bill to come...not happy! I hate to complain but really feel that clearly the owner had no respect for his paying customers that night (pompous man)!

The resort of Kamari is fairly quite and not alot to do, but if like us you just want to relax, and chill out then it's perfect. We did catch a bus to Fira for the day 1.20 euro each. It only took 20 mins and was worth a day trip. I'm glad we didn't stay in Fira as was overrun by tourists! all in all the resort is very friendly, clean and accessible (everything is in walking distance). Enjoy