Why Book Direct with Astacos Studios
When you book through Booking.com, Airbnb, or other platforms, up to 20% of what you pay goes to the platform as commission. That money doesn't improve your stay, it just enriches a tech company. When you book directly with us via phone, email, or WhatsApp, that 20% stays in our family business, allowing us to offer you better rates, more flexibility, and personal touches that platforms can't replicate.
We've been welcoming guests since 1963, long before online travel platforms existed. Direct booking is how hospitality is meant to work: a conversation between you and the people who will host you, not an algorithm and automated emails. You get our decades of local knowledge, honest advice, and the ability to customize your stay. We get the satisfaction of direct relationships with our guests and fair compensation for our work.
Direct Booking Benefits
Best Rate Guarantee
Our direct rates are always lower than or equal to rates on booking platforms. If you find a lower rate elsewhere for the same room and dates, we'll match it and give you an additional 5% discount.
Flexible Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 7 days before arrival. For last-minute changes due to illness or travel disruptions, we work with you to find solutions, no rigid platform policies.
Personal Service
Direct communication before, during, and after your stay. We answer questions, provide local recommendations, arrange airport transfers, and help with any issues immediately, no chatbots, no ticket systems.
Room Customization
Special requests are easier when booking direct: specific room assignments, early check-in/late check-out (when available), extra amenities, dietary accommodations. We can tailor your stay to your needs.
No Hidden Fees
What we quote is what you pay. No platform service fees, no currency conversion markups, no surprise charges at checkout. Transparent pricing from the start.
WhatsApp Convenience
Book via WhatsApp with photos, voice messages, and instant responses. Share your arrival time, ask about the weather, get restaurant recommendations, all in one continuous conversation.
How to Book Direct
Booking directly is simple. Contact us through any of the methods below with your dates, number of guests, and any questions or special requests. We'll confirm availability, provide a quote, and explain the booking process. No complicated forms, no impersonal interfaces, just a straightforward conversation.
WhatsApp
Send a message with your dates. We typically respond within 30 minutes during daytime (Greek time).
+30 697 383 8972
Phone
Call us directly. Best times: 9 AM – 9 PM Greek time (GMT+2 summer, GMT+1 winter).
+30 697 383 8972
Email
Send detailed questions or booking requests. We respond within 24 hours, usually much faster.
info@astacos.biz
What to Include in Your Inquiry
To help us provide accurate availability and pricing, please include:
Arrival and departure datesNumber of guests (adults and children with ages)
Room preference (Full Sea View Studio, Apartment on Beach, or Cozy Studio,
see our accommodation page)
Any special requests early check-in, airport transfer, dietary needs, mobility considerations, etc.
Don't worry if you're unsure about which room type suits you, we'll ask a few questions and recommend the best option based on your group size, budget, and preferences.
Booking Process
1. You contact us via WhatsApp, phone, or email with your dates and details
2. We confirm availability and provide a price quote (no obligation)
3. If you're happy, we send booking confirmation with studio details, address, and payment instructions
4. You pay a deposit (typically 30% of total) to secure the booking; remaining balance due on arrival
5. We stay in touch before your arrival to coordinate check-in time, answer questions, and provide travel tips
6. You arrive and we meet you personally to hand over keys and show you around
Payment Methods
We accept the following payment methods for direct bookings:
Bank transfer: For deposit and balance (no fees for SEPA transfers within EU)
Cash on arrival: Euros accepted; we provide receipt
Credit/debit card: Available on-site (small processing fee may apply)
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Standard Policy: Free cancellation up to 7 days before arrival date. Deposit fully refundable if canceled within this window. Cancellations within 7 days of arrival forfeit the deposit.
Flexible Approach: We understand that travel plans change, sometimes due to circumstances beyond your control (illness, family emergencies, travel restrictions). If you need to cancel or modify your booking, contact us, we'll work with you to find a fair solution. This flexibility is only possible with direct bookings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I modify my booking dates after confirming?
Yes, subject to availability. Contact us as soon as you know you need to change dates. If the new dates are available, we'll adjust your booking at no extra charge.
Do I need to pay in full when booking?
No. We require a deposit (typically 30% of the total) to confirm your booking. The remaining balance is due on arrival. This protects both parties and gives you flexibility.
What if I find a lower rate on Booking.com?
Contact us with a screenshot or link. If it's genuinely a lower rate for the exact same room and dates, we'll match it and give you 5% off. Our direct rates are almost always equal to or better than platform rates.
Do you offer discounts for longer stays?
Yes. Stays of 7+ nights receive a discount (typically 10–15% depending on season). Ask when you inquire—we're happy to offer better rates for extended stays.
