Having your own transport means that you have the freedom to do what you like at your leisure. There are many great places in Corfu that a bus will not take you. The 12th century Monastery of Ipsili is a prime example. You can get there by car but not by bus’ Driving through a small village like Rachtades with its narrow streets, you can stop when you want and enjoy a coffee or a drink for around 35 pence in the small square, in company with the locals. Take a stroll around the villages back streets and experience their everyday Life. A car is your best option to get you there.
Or how about visiting a small cove with no one around but you.
Head for a local supermarket and stock up with some local delicacies – salami, feta cheese, fresh bread, olives and dips, but most importantly some local wine, then follow a small track into an olive grove with beautiful sea views. Spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic with your partner or with your family and friends.
Then at night visit inland villages and enjoy dinner in a Taverna where the locals eat.
We have some good advice. ‘Visitors driving a hired car have to remember that as they are here on holiday they have all the time in the world. Proceeding slowly and admiring the view while 20 frustrated drivers crawl behind them is not a very good idea. Locals are in a hurry to get to work and since they know the roads well they can travel faster than visitors. Unfortunately our roads have not changed much during the last 20 years. There are no overtaking lanes and the minor roads can be very narrow. so remember to think of your fellow road users, and when someone is behind you pull to the side of the road and let them past. Even just one car.
Then remember always to drive in the right hand side of the road. It is very, easy to get used to, and within 10 minutes you will be switching over without any problems.
In the hotter months of July and August it’s best to choose an air-conditioned car, especially if you have children. ‘When you overtake a bike or a car peep slightly on your horn let them know you are there.
Don’t forget siesta time. Inland villages are dead at that time. Early mornings and late afternoons is the best time to catch the locals going to and from their land. Remember the locals have a nap at siesta time so don’t use your horn too much in the afternoon hours.
When going around curves with poor visibility use your horn, and keep your music down so you can hear other cars beeping.
Remember that when approaching a car parked on your side of the road, give way to cars coming the opposite direction. in general be careful and courteous and have a good holiday.
