Where to begin with this trip?! I suppose it will have to be with Maria. I have been to St John's Villas twice before and just loved the solitude and privacy of a villa and not having to deal with people...that is all I am after in a holiday. However, this time, I met Maria. I can't sum up Maria in any way, shape or form. Just go and meet her and see what service is meant to be, actually service is the wrong word when it comes to St John's. They aren't people serving you, they are your friends and family. You have known them a lifetime without knowing them at all. Maria was so helpful with food, drinks and places to go that I saw a side to Tsilivi I have never seen before, eventhough, I must have visited Zakynthos at least 8 times.

Most nights I would have a wonderful meal at Pergola (a limited menu in some respects, but, everything on it was exceptionally cooked by the chef, Julia) play a few games of pool, have a deep conversation on language/philosophy etc. with Maria, get a lecture from Maria for having too many cocktails, laugh until my keg of a stomach turned into a six pack and then go to bed. It was one of the greatest routines I have ever been in and I still cry laughing about some of the crazy things Maria and me discussed. Oh and for those that are interested I stayed in Gardenia.

But, let's get on with this review in a slightly more serious way (emphasis on slightly):

* Is it clean? Yes, a regular maid service that do a fantastic job.

* Are the people helpful? I have never met staff more eager to help you have, not only a great stay at the accommodation, but, a fantastic holiday. Wonderful people, who I am happy to call my friends

* Good Location? It is a little walk to Tsilivi, I am not going to lie to you wonderful people. However, it's only a 15 minute amble down and it is pretty pleasant...however going back up the hill is nightmare after a few (well, I say a few...) drinks so I would take full advantage of the fairly priced (but insanely driven) taxis.

* Good Food? Yes, delicious.

* Good Drinks? Oh God Yes!!! Maria makes special ones that are flavours that you will never have tasted and will never be able to replicate...regardless of how much Bols and spirits you may buy at home. :( You are probably reading this going "They aren't that good, don't be lying to me Simon!"...if you don't believe me go (even if just for a week) and ask Maria nicely whether you could have a special cocktail like the ones you made for Simon when he stayed. Your life with be forever changed!

I also have to mention Mavra (greek Sandra Bullock) from Reception...please go talk to Mavra from the snack bar as she is lovely and no one goes down to the snack bar as they are having such an incredible time in the Pergola restaurant! Please she is so lovely and is just a wonderful person!

One of the greatest holidays I have ever been on and you will never meet such wonderful people in your life. Not only the staff but the other people living around us were just delightful to spend time with.

Just go here and love it!

Hope you have a lovely holiday here and remember to tell people about it. :)


Simon