Emerald Studios

No matter what anyone else says, this is probably the best overall hotel in Malia.

Yes the rooms are basic but so are all hotel rooms in a resort like Malia.

Emerald Studios are run by a family who live next to the hotel, it is their pride and joy, their livelihood, you will not meet nicer people anywhere in the world, especially Nicos and Emma.

The pool is fantastic and the bar which is right beside it sells food and drink at good prices all day and all night, until the last person leaves. The pool and bar are so good that some of the reps come during the day for a bit of quiet sunbathing and a swim, they say the Emerald is superb.

There is also a rooftop part for sunbathing and a massive garden.

The main strip is 1 minute away and the beach may be a 5-10 minute walk.

The other good thing is that there is no noise from the main strip at night so you can get to sleep no problem.

I had a fantastic holiday at the Emerald hotel but mostly because the people who run it made it even better.

I am trying to book to go back next year but I only want to stay at the Emerald.

Enjoy your holiday.

Myself, lots of friends and family have been coming and going to the Emerald Studios in Malia for the last five years; sometimes twice a year in June and September. We have become friends with the owners, and we would find it very hard to stay anywhere else in Malia. We love the location, the rooms, the service, the pool, the gardens, the food, just about everything about the place.

If you are over the age of thirty it's a great place to stay, especially in June and September. We are all different ages, from 16 to 50+, and we believe Malia has something for everyone - and it's all within easy walking distance from the Emerald.

We have made friends with lots of other people (of all nationalities) in Malia. We have our favourite places to go, including restaurants (Totto Lotto in the village), bars (Kipuli - 24 hour bar, Connexions - both in the village), clubs, beaches, tours, shops, days out, people and families etc.

We are going back in May 2007 for two weeks, and taking two MALIA VIRGINS with us (that is two people for whom it will be their first time in Malia!). I am sure they will love it, and will be returning again and again.

We stayed at the Emerald Studios in Malia in June 2006, and we went with Escapades. Our rep was fantastic, and the staff, especially behind the bar were great! Rooms are basic, but roomy, and who cares? I only used it for a shower. I didn't even sleep there, so the rooms weren't a problem!

The emerald is a smallish hotel, so everyone gets to know each other! I'd say it was a 15 minute walk to the beach, and a 2 minute stroll to the nightlife. It is in a fabulous location.

I will be going back in September. I really recommend it! HAVE FUN!