This trip to Rhodes was a unique break from my usual travel style! It was a birthday gift to myself, after a year filled with weekend city breaks, I wanted a full week of pure relaxation. So, I booked my first-ever all-inclusive package with Loveholidays for £580. The package covered flights, accommodation, transport to and from the airport, and half board. It was the simplest, most stress-free vacation booking I've done—and I loved it.

Though my original hotel was full, the upgrade I was offered was quiet and cosy, even if it was a bit further from the beach. The pool, luckily, was often empty, and I enjoyed having it mostly to myself, making it the perfect spot to recharge. The room was clean, though the single bed was a bit underwhelming. I stocked up on essentials, like a case of 1.5l water bottles for just €1.50, and settled in for a week of sun, sleep, and total relaxation.

Exploring Rhodes and Getting Around

Rhodes has some incredible sights, but if you’re thinking of visiting, renting a car is definitely a good idea. Buses exist, but they’re tricky to navigate—Google Maps isn’t too reliable here, so ask drivers for directions. I stayed in Archangelos, and getting to Rhodes Town was an adventure in itself! After some friendly help from the bus driver and his colleagues, I made it to the city centre in about 45 minutes.

Once in Rhodes Town, I explored the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights (free to enter!), and strolled along the beach, where the water’s deep blue was breath-taking. Though it was too windy for a swim, I had a relaxing lunch at Koutouki 42, a charming restaurant by the beach, which even offered private beach service. After wandering through some beach side restaurants, I managed to navigate my way back, thanks to some helpful locals at the bus station—Google Maps left me a bit lost!

Tsambika Beach: A Memorable Day Trip

Rhodes isn’t the most pedestrian-friendly, so if you’re walking to the beach, expect an adventure. Luckily, I met a fellow solo traveler at my hotel, and we decided to trek to Tsambika Beach together. The walk was about an hour each way, over hilly terrain and in full sun (over 30°C), but the beach was absolutely worth it! With a wide stretch of sand, sunbeds, umbrellas, and even a bar, Tsambika had a relaxing, local vibe that was just what I’d hoped for.

Practical Tips for Rhodes

• Cash and Cards: You can use Visa/Mastercard almost everywhere, but having euros on hand is helpful, especially for smaller purchases.
• Transport: Car rentals are easiest; taxis only take cash and walking is possible, but sometimes challenging.
• Nightlife: If you’re looking for a lively scene, Faliraki is the nightlife hub (and where my original hotel was!).

Final Thoughts

This solo week in Rhodes was peaceful, refreshing, and exactly what I needed. From quiet pool days to discovering the beauty of Tsambika Beach, Rhodes showed me the perfect side of relaxation.

Fun fact: on the minibus back to the airport, the driver’s playlist looped J.Lo and Pitbull’s On the Floor—a funny and oddly fitting end to my trip!

If you have any questions about Rhodes, let me know—I’d love to help!