Another plug for the IC. We were there last May, and found that the rates for the Club floor were much less than a regular room at the GB. I used my BOGO which brought the price down even further. You could easily survive on the wonderful food in the lounge - hot breakfast, afternoond sandwiches and munchies, hot appetizers in the evening, open bar, free internet use with printing. The food was not only plentiful but GOOD. And, the lounge has a terrace with killer views of the Acropolis. Room was HUGE, with a complete sitting area with a couch, several easy chairs and a nice desk for working. Our room also had a great view of the Acropolis. If you are IC Ambassador, I can say that this hotel gave all the expected benefits and more.

We were concerned that it was outside of the immediate tourist area, but it turned out to be fine, the shuttle is free and regular and drops you off right in front of the GB. When it came time to leave for the airport the concierge in the lounge arranged for a taxi pickup at a set fee. When we went downstairs at the appointed time the doorman had our name and taxi number on a list, and he made sure we got the taxi that had been ordered. The price was exactly what we were quoted.

When the shuttle schedule didn't work for us a couple times we took the tram back to the hotel - easy to use and there is a stop about a 5-10 minute walk from the hotel, down a very busy and perfectly safe main street. There were some interesting looking local restaurants close to the IC, but we didn't explore them. We also walked back from the acropolis on a balmy afternoon and felt completely safe doing so - probably ~30 minute walk.

The hotel also has a very nice pool area, with lots of lounge chairs, etc. I would stay there again in a heartbeat.

And, on my first trip to Greece I would certainly plan a couple nights in Athens, since it would be a shame to miss the acropolis, etc., but would spend most of my time on the Islands. Be prepared for a big noisy and somewhat dirty city.