Supermarkets

Self-catering on Kos is straightforward: the main resorts all have a proper supermarket, and prices drop noticeably once you are away from the beachfront mini markets.

Alongside the usual staples, look for the things worth eating while you are here — island honey, local olive oil, feta sold by weight and whatever fruit is in season.

Every main resort on Kos has at least one proper supermarket, and the difference in price between them and the small beachfront shops is significant enough to be worth a short walk or drive. If you are staying a week or more in an apartment or villa, one large shop at the start tends to cost less than daily top-ups.

Greek supermarkets are strong in exactly the places you would hope. Feta and other cheeses are sold by weight from a counter rather than pre-packed, olive oil comes in five-litre tins at prices that make sense to bring home, and the fruit and vegetables are seasonal and local — tomatoes, watermelon, figs, peaches and grapes through the summer.

A few practical differences. Bread is usually bought fresh from an in-store bakery or a separate fournos rather than pre-sliced. Bags are charged for, so bring your own. And many stores keep reduced hours on Sunday or close entirely, which is worth knowing before you plan a Sunday barbecue.