Lesbos - Yay or nay?

[lindylove14]

I have been recommended the Greek island of Lesbos by a friend who visited about years ago and thought she had found paradise.
Another friend, who is from a Greek background but hasn't specifically visited Lesbos (or at least, not recently) says I should avoid it, due to the number of refugees landing there.
Not that I'm scared or offended by the sight of these poor people, I just don't know whether I could enjoy a relaxing holiday there, seeing them and knowing what they had gone through. It doesn't feel right somehow.
Has anyone visited recently who can advise - book Lesbos or choose somewhere else?

I would love to go as it looks beautiful, but totally get where you are coming from as we found it hard seeing refugees in Kos a few years ago.

There are many charities on Lesbos helping refugees and you could take some things over for them. Make sure you ask first what they want but I know Kos Kindness appreciate this. They also often ask for things like sports direct vouchers (online codes) as that's the cheapest way for them to buy what they specifically need. I know they also appreciate things like paper, pencils, pens etc. Alternatively ask what you can buy in resort and then you're helping the local shopkeeper too. Knowing you are actively helping might allow you to enjoy the island. The island needs tourists and are worried that the refugee crisis is driving them away.

Go. I've wanted to go for years and somehow never got there (not because of the refugee situation) but my cousin's in laws are from Lesvos. My cousin and her family go there every year and have a wonderful time. The refugees are kept in camps away from tourist centres but there are groups such as the Starfish foundation who co-ordinate aid to them and you could take stuff over for them.