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It's been calculated that you are never more than 11km from a beach in Kos, making it easy when those sudden urges to hit the coast grab you. Head to the north-west of the island if you are looking for the best place to get to grips with some water sports. Kos Town has a sandy shingle beach which will keep sun worshippers happy, while those in search of some action can take advantage of the gentle winds to do a spot of windsurfing.
Kardemena has a fine sandy beach with clean, blue waters for swimming. Probably the most well know of the island's beaches is Kefalos, and the soft sands and blue waters also make it one of the most attractive. You can enjoy a day's sunbathing then retire in one of the seafront tavernas to enjoy the catch of the day.
Another stretch of coastline which has good facilities is the beach at Lambi. Here you can hire sunbeds and umbrellas to relax on this sandy beach and enjoy the number of snack bars, restaurants and cafes which overlook the beach.
If you prefer seclusion then the best solution is to go and explore - there's a whole host of pretty beaches just waiting to be discovered.
Searching for nightlife in Kos? Then your best bet is top get yourself down to Kardamena, where you will find a whole host of bars, clubs and discos that stay open well into the early hours. Kos Town also offers a good night out but it's fair to say the atmosphere is a little classier. Galatea comes recommended as does Charisma bar, which is known for its love of the happy hour. Looking for clubs? Then Fashion is a popular haunt, and considered to be one of the best clubs on the island.
Elsewhere nightlife is more low key, with evenings spent relaxing over a meal in one of the tavernas or enjoying a walk along the beach as the sun sets.
Come to Kos and get yourself down to one of the local tavernas where you can sample some Greek specialities. Mpriam, a casserole made from summer vegetables and topped with breadcrumbs and cheese, is a relatively healthy option, as is agkinares a la polita, artichoke hearts in olive oil and lemon juice.
Prasa me sousami - baked leaves with sesame seeds - make an ideal light starter or snack, and don't forget to treat yourself to some of the island's famous Cos lettuce! Fruit and vegetables are a main part of Grecian cuisine as well as seafood and fresh fish, which are often served simply sprinkled with herbs and accompanied by a salad.
Cheese is also an important element in many dishes and saganaki, goat's cheese fried in olive oil then flamed in brandy, is just begging to be sampled! As for drink, Kos produces its own varieties of wine and fruit liqueurs.
For great shopping then Zia comes recommended. Here not only can you pick up some great handmade items like rugs, lace and pottery, but you can take in the beautiful countryside in the process.
Kos Town is another hotspot for shoppers. Not only is there a large choice of shops in the town, but there's also a weekly market where you can pick up anything from leather gifts and jewellery to fruit and vegetables.