Galaxy Beach Resort, BW Premier Collection

Lawns dotted with stylish canopy beds overlook the beautiful sea -- an example of the thoughtful design details that separate this particular hotel from other chain properties. The lobby sitting area has sofas and a PC computer, a terrace offers more seating with sea views, and a white staircase leads to a second floor area with modern white leather chairs and a flat-screen TV. Outside, a walkway leads to a private beach area with a ping-pong table, and white lounge chairs and umbrellas (for a fee). Considerable thought was paid to creating space for families: The kiddy pool has a dolphin fountain and a small slide, while the main pool is large and clean, with a wooden deck, lounge chairs, and umbrellas. A manmade rock formation and scenic sea views add to the chic vibe. 

Located on the southeastern side of the island, the hotel is within walking distance of restaurants and bars. The shores of Laganas are reached in about two minutes via a walkway cutting through the hotel’s grassy property. Within a 10- to 15-minute drive, guests can reach Tsilivi Water Park, Zante Tennis Club, and St. Agios Dionisios Church, where the saint’s remains are still housed. Carnival parties and parades, which take place in the summer, are held close to the hotel. The Zakynthos International Airport is about 15 to 20 minutes away. 

The Galaxy Hotel offers an array of Suites along with Standard and Deluxe guest rooms. Most rooms have no-frills neutral-colored furnishings and brown-striped fabrics, with some pops of blue. Most have flat-screen TVs, and all have mini-fridges and balconies -- some with sea views. For a fee, guests can access in-room Wi-Fi and safes. Bathrooms have brown marble counters and stall showers; some pricier rooms and suites have shower/tub combos. Junior Suites have bunk beds and whirlpool tubs. I'm having a hard time confirming what is by-fee and what is included in all rooms, but I think this is accurate. SA

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet meals are offered at the Galaxy Stars restaurant, which has a pitched wooden ceiling and gets lots of natural light. Colorful kiddy tables are also available. The pool bar lawn overlooks the sea and offers palm frond umbrellas and wicker chairs, in addition to covered bar seating and a pool table. The gourmet restaurant is decorated with chic lounge beds on the grass, facing the sea. The Bar Horizons is trendy and set in the lobby, with a blue bar and white bar stools. Both half-board and all-inclusive rates are available. The Galaxy Roof Garden bar is open-air and romantic, with red-cushioned sofas and a terrace surrounded by glass railings.