Safe and lively Greek holiday suggestions for first-time independent 18-year-olds

[UnitaBath]

My DD18 and her bf (also 18) would like to go somewhere in Greece next month.

For various reasons DD has never been abroad so everything will be a new adventure for her and although her bf has been on lots of holidays abroad they have always been with either of his parents so they will both be rookie independent travellers.

They are obviously looking for somewhere lively and fun but also safe (that's my request!).

I imagine an all inclusive or at least bed and breakfast would be preferable as neither are great housekeepers.

Any suggestions would be most welcome.

Why not them research and find something, surely that’s part of the fun!

My 18 yr old has just returned from Malia had a great time only his second solo trip (with his friend).

Eldest has been to loads of Greek places with GF ~ chania, Crete, sidari, rates them all - can’t fault any Greek islands really never found a bad one.

At 18 my dd booked an airbnb and Ryan air flights no help from me, she hadn’t done it before either. They are probably best booking a full package if they are that naive, means everything is taken care of even transfers - TUI or jet 2 are pretty easy to navigate online to book as well. Make sure they have insurance with any medical conditions even doctors visits disclosed. A full package ai trip means they need minimal spending money

Is this not slightly over invested in two adults’ holiday?

Bloody hell, typical Mumsnet, not paying any attention to the actual question. I'm asking if anyone can recommend anywhere in Greece, then they will book it themselves. Noting to do with being over invested, my dd asked me to help them and as I haven't been to Greece I thought I would ask for recommendations from those who may have visited this area, not too much to ask is it?

CrawlingBackToYou thank you so much, I will pass that on to them and they can have a look online later.

No Greek holiday destination is dangerous as opposed to safe. I’d suggest a package holiday will suit them and it’s just a question of budget and convenient flights. The actual island doesn’t really matter tbh.

The island does matter as quite a few are very quiet! They need a bit of life but not off your nut vibes ….

Oh give over! They're only 18 and mum is asking a question on a chat forum, she's not going with them.

What do they want to do? Evenings out in a restaurant or clubbing? I've had some great holidays in Crete, Rhodes, Zante and Corfu. If you go to the main 'party' towns, it is very different to other areas. Personally I love Crete but I'm looking for beach/pool, dinner and a drink in the evening before a relatively early bed.

Exactly what I am asking, thank you.

They will probably want to spend some days around the pool or on the beach, maybe a mooch around some towns and a mix of bars and meals out of an evening.

Thanks, I will pass those recommendations to them later.

DD and 3 friends went to Ios at that age and loved it, a bit smaller and not as deranged as some of the party places and plenty of non party places too. It helps that it has no airport so you have to make some effort to get there. It looked gorgeous and the partying sounded really fun but still safe. Has some nice beach clubs too apparently

My mum's octogenarian next door neighbours also go there every year (but not for the partying!)

They could book a hotel with breakfast and eat out for dinner, picking up something small for lunch after a big breakfast. I like this because it's more interesting in the evening, but can end up more expensive. Alternatively they could book half board/all inclusive. The benefit of this is more fixed costs, but can be a bit boring eating in the hotel every night, although they could go for a drink later.

In Crete, we stayed in Elounda, a lovely village on the west coast. There are probably bigger places, but not sure. Rhodes we stayed nearish Lindos. I can't remember places on other islands. The bigger islands all have decent sized towns, plus smaller villages. They will have things like water parks or places for boat trips if that appeals to them. But tell them to check out any hotel on the map. I have stayed at some quite remote all inclusive places. Good for a cheaper deal with pool/beach, but you can feel a bit cooped up in the evening if not much to wander. Taxis can be super expensive and buses trickier to navigate, so sometimes hard to navigate what seems like a shortish distance. Better to be within walking distance of a centre with restaurants etc.

DS is 18, 10 of them went to Zakinthos, had a ball. Depends what they want.

i think pretty much every Greek island is safe, Teenagers likely put themselves at risk through reckless behaviour / too much alcohol / drugs.

Islands that may not immediately lend themselves to a teenage market Hydra - though that requires a ferry from Athens, Symi, Lesvos, Thassos. Kalymnos - unless they are climbers of course. Others can no doubt add to that list.

Mykonos can be on the pricey side, Santorini, the livelier bit at least still likely pretty crowded.

But Crete, Rhodes, Kos, Corfu, Skiathos, Zakynthos etc all have plenty of variety, and options to suit every budget. Plus all served by direct flights from the UK.

that’s the biggest problem with Greek islands really -,too many islands and too much choice 😁

however wherever they choose they will have a great time.

Laganas if they want clubbing 18-30 type holiday or are they wanting more low key

Laganas or Sidari. Would they consider Cyprus? I’ve always had a great time in Ayia Napa and we’ve always been very safe. Nissi beach in particular to stay in

Thanks everyone for your input, I passed the recommendations on to them and I think they are going to book later this week.