Travel guide – kos
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Overview
This island of the Dodecanese group has been taken over almost completely by tourism, catering especially for family holidays. Aside from the drawcard of beautiful beaches, Kos has an abundance of interesting ruins to explore, and is easily reached from Rhodes or Bodrum (Turkey) by ferry. Kos was prominent in antiquity because of its healing temple of Asclepius, founded after the death of the famed physician Hippocrates, who allegedly taught students on the island. The island also features the remains of temples for other healing deities, including Isis and Sarapis, and appears to have historically been an island healing retreat. The island boasts a tree that is reputedly the oldest in Europe and Hippocrates is said to have held lecture sessions in its shade. The island also has several archaeological remains of Persian, Turkish, Roman and Byzantine conquerors that all added their bit during a long history. Kos has busy bars and an entertaining nightlife, and there are some pleasant towns and beaches outside the capital, but those looking for empty beaches should head for quieter islands.
Situated mid-way along the south coast of the Dodecanesian island of Kos, Kardamena is one of the most popular resorts in Greece, particularly with young Brits looking for a lively and entertaining holiday. Once a small fishing village, the town is now very commercialised with scores of English-style pubs and restaurants and tightly packed apartment blocks. A wide variety of watersports can be organised from the long sandy beach and the resort is well placed for those who want to explore the island’s fascinating interior.
Kefalos is a purpose-built resort with a laid-back atmosphere, situated in the south west of the island of Kos. It is surrounded by spectacular scenery and sits beneath the old town of Kefalos, from which it takes its name. The resort has plenty of good restaurants and a couple of small nightclubs, but is mainly geared for tourists looking for a quiet holiday.
The ancient port of Kos, the capital and major town on the island, has been home to Egyptians, Romans, Venetians, Ottomans and the Knights of St John. All left their mark on the town: the ruins of the Roman baths and amphitheatre remain, and the 15th-century castle, built by the Knights of St John, still stands as supreme sentry. There has been much development over recent years, with apartment blocks stretching out to the suburbs of Lambi and Psalidi (to the north and south respectively), however Kos remains a fascinating and cosmopolitan town with a good mix of culture and entertainment. There is a busy nightlife with no shortage of bars and mix of restaurants from English-style cafes to local tavernas – many situated around the old harbour area overlooking traditional fishing boats and sleek yachts. The main beach in town is a fairly narrow, shingle affair packed with beach chairs and umbrellas, but there are better beaches a short bus journey away. Kos Town is perfectly situated for taking boat trips to Turkey and the nearby islands.
Climate
Kos enjoys hot, dry summers and mild winters. Temperatures in July and August range from 82ºF (28ºC) during the day to 72ºF (22ºC) at night. Rainfall is almost non-existent in summer but showers can be expected between October and March.
Health
There are no specific health risks in Greece, but visitors who plan to walk through forested areas are advised to consider vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis. Medical facilities in Greece vary; those in major cities are excellent but many of the islands are some distance from a decent hospital. Food and water are safe, but those visiting for short periods should consider sticking to bottled water. UK nationals are entitled to a refund on emergency hospital treatment under a reciprocal agreement between the UK and Greece, and a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should be taken on holiday for this purpose. Despite this, all visitors are advised to take out medical insurance. Yellow fever vaccination certificates are required for those arriving from infected areas. Bird flu was detected in swans in northern Greece in February 2006, but stringent measures have been taken to contain the outbreak; no human infections have been reported. The risk to people is believed to be very low, but visitors are advised to avoid any contact with caged, wild or domestic birds, and to ensure that all poultry and egg dishes are well cooked as a precaution.
The basics
Getting Around
Most visitors’ first experience of Kos is its small and antiquated airport situated on the south coast, a few miles west of Kardamena. The island is 25 miles (40km) long and only around five miles (eight km) across and is fairly easy to get around. Most people use the local buses, which link the main resorts and Kos Town, leaving every couple of hours. Taxis are also available and cars can be hired for those wanting to explore the quieter northern beaches. Ferries to Crete, Rhodes and Turkey are on offer, leaving from Kos Town.
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