Hotel Macedonia

This simple hotel with basic amenities offers budget-conscious guests a clean and comfortable place from which to explore Laganas Bay in Zakynthos. The building stands on its own down a side street leading toward the beach, though there are a few other hotels in the vicinity. It is recognizable for its yellow exterior with terra-cotta roof tiles, balustrades along the front porch, and busts of Greek statues flanking the entrance. Inside, the lobby is an open space with a comfortable feel, though the design is dated -- think large floral prints in pink and purple, salmon-colored walls, and mustard-yellow pillars. Items for sale -- hats, bags, jewelry, and postcards, for example -- are displayed around the room. 

The hotel consists of five buildings forming a "U" shape around the central pool and green lawn. The pool is the main gathering spot at the hotel and can become noisy with children playing. While the beautiful nearby beach offers an alternative, it is also popular with tourists -- particularly those interested in sea turtles -- and can be crowded in peak seasons. Many families come for the children’s facilities and proximity to the beach at a value price, while couples enjoy convenient access to a lively night scene. 

Hotel Macedonia is on the southern coast of Zakynthos, a small island off the western coast of Greece. It is just off the main road through Kalamaki, a five-minute walk from a beautiful, sandy beach on Laganas Bay. The bay is known for the population of loggerhead sea turtles that lay their eggs in the sand, and visitors may be lucky enough to find the turtles swimming nearby in the bay. Within a five- to 15-minute walk, there are many eateries and bars, all on a busy strip of road where guests will find an active nightlife.  

From the hotel, it's a two-minute walk to the nearest public bus stop along the main road. It is a 13-minute drive to the harbor area of the capital city, Zakynthos, from which several museums and historic sites are within walking distance. The hotel is just south of the Zakynthos International Airport runway, so planes do fly overhead during the day, but most guests do not find it bothersome. The airport is a five-minute drive away.

Dated rooms are simple and utilitarian, with little flair or extra embellishment. Neutral colors, wood furniture, and white tile floors are the backdrop for a few pink and purple accents and artwork. Studios come with three beds -- either a double and a single, or three singles. The room can feel crowded with a dining table, kitchenette, desk, and wardrobe crowded into in one space. Larger apartments have a double bed and two singles for up to four people. Kitchenettes are a nice extra and include a mini-fridge, two electric burners, a sink, and a kettle, plus pots, utensils, and dishes are standard. All rooms also have a furnished balcony or terrace. Air-conditioning and a safe are both available for a fee, but rooms do not have a television. Bathrooms are dated with some wear evident, but are generally clean. They have an enclosed shower cabin and a pedestal sink with a narrow shelf for toiletries. A hairdryer and free soap are provided. 

This hotel is light on features, with just a pool and light meals available at the bar. The pool is a decent size and has plenty of sunbeds under white umbrellas, as well as a wading pool for smaller children. There are metal ladders, but no built-in steps for easy entry into the water. A fenced playground and a grill are next to the pool, making the area busy and sometimes noisy. The playground has some fun equipment for children, but it's a bit worn and in the full sun. 

The pool bar is a casual spot serving drinks, snacks, and light meals. Breakfast is available for purchase here, a meal that guests find satisfactory for the price, but nothing special. A small chapel is a pleasant feature for those planning a wedding. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby and pool areas, but it does not extend to all rooms. Parking is free.