By Jan Moore
On the beautiful western side of
The Mistral Hotel, situated between Maleme and on the main coast road from Chania to Kissamos is a haven for the independent, single traveller.
Yes, this is a singles holidays hotel. But what makes this hotel particularly magical is the attitude of the owner, Vassilis Gialamarakis and his family. When Vassilis opened his hotel he wanted to offer a holiday for independent single people who either wanted to meander about the island on their own, quietly sit in a corner reading a book or meet up with other independent people. There is not a hint of ‘you must pair up with another member of the opposite sex’. Of course if it happens that an attraction develops that is a bonus for some. What does happen is that lifetime friendships are made.
Vassal’s open holiday concept for the single person has proved so popular that this year he opened a further 16 rooms of four star quality. These rooms blend in with the original part of hotel - attractively designed within a courtyard and a second swimming pool.
The Mistral Hotel began its relationship with single people in 1995. The philosophy of its concept and the relaxed manner in which Vassislis and his staff implemented the ‘single’ approach came as a refreshing change to independent holidaymakers and at first the word went round. Today, the hotel has an excellent website also offers internet services and a programme of exciting and different tours. Mere sophistication however, has not spoilt the core of The Mistral, it enables Vassilis to reach out and encourage more people travelling solo to enjoy their holidays without feeling an oddity.
Vassilis was determined to ‘go it alone’ as opposed to a tie-in with a travel company and after 8 years with a travel company he took the plunge. This has changed everything. The hotel is now based on the personal touch – as a guest you are not just a number on a booking form – you are somebody special looking for a holiday where your status will in no way impede your enjoyment and the humiliation of the single supplement does not exist!
“One of the most important aspect of this hotel is that everybody feels safe here and this is very important to us,” emphasized Vassislis. “Some single person might feel terrified of going on holiday on their own. Don’t be. The welfare of our guests is what The Mistral is all about. “
“Our philosophy creates a safe, sociable environment without the matchmaking.”
“No children are allowed in the pool and hotel area, although members of the general public are welcome to come and eat in our restaurant, but some notice would be required, “explained Vassislis.
‘SPECIAL’ NIGHTS
The Gialamarakis family is well known and respected in this part of
COST
The cost of one week is from £365, half board. This includes single accommodation breakfast, four-course dinner, coffee and wine. Flights not included in the price.
FOOD
The cuisine at the hotel is pure Cretan and all homemade. Katerina, Vassilis’s mother is in charge in the kitchen. The food is fresh - the Gialamarakis family have a vegetable garden close to the hotel and some of the eggs and chicken are from the family’s farm. Katerina’s expertise guarantees guests are assured of a meal that is of the highest quality, but with some extra touches.
Their pizzas are renowned and they have a selection of 27 on their menu.
The Mistral tours are a little different too – especially the Thursday visit to Sfinari
Here on this beautiful part of the island, you can laze on the beach, followed by a leisurely lunch of 3.5 hours and many courses of local fresh fish, including lobster, cooked by a local Cretan. Pure heaven!
AFTER-CARE
If you think at the end of October everything’s all over at hotel, think again. Vassilis has arranged this year a reunion of 100 guests in Milton Keynes, near
THE FUTURE
Future plans include the building of a sister hotel closer to Chania accommodating 20 – 25 guests.
COMMENTS
As a single person and a resident of the village , I find the atmosphere at The Mistral so relaxing and actually joyous that other single residents and myself are drawn to the hotel at least two nights of the week!
“The Mistral is all about caring for people, really caring for the welfare of your guests and committing yourself to their enjoyment,” commented Vassilis.
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