**Guests Rally in Support of Corfu Hotel After British Gran’s Food Criticism Sparks Debate**
A seaside hotel in Corfu has found itself at the centre of a heated online dispute after a British grandmother complained about the lack of chips and familiar English fare during her holiday, only to be swiftly met by an outpouring of positive reviews from other holidaymakers rallying to defend the resort’s cuisine and hospitality.
Susan Edwards, a 69-year-old from Westerhope, Newcastle, told media that her recent stay at the Lido Corfu Sun Hotel turned into what she described as a “nightmare.” Edwards, who travelled with her family on a TUI-arranged package deal, expressed disappointment at what she felt were limited and unappealing food options for those used to British culinary comforts. “There was no food we could eat,” Edwards said, lamenting the abundance of rice and lack of staples like bacon, sausages, and, crucially, chips—served, she claimed, on only one day during the trip.
This complaint quickly gained traction on social media and in the news, fuelling discussion about the ever-present debate between authentic local cuisine and holidaymakers’ expectations for familiar comfort foods abroad. Edwards, who manages a medical condition requiring dietary care, described the lack of dish labelling and suitable menu items as a significant drawback, terming her experience “the worst holiday I’ve ever been on.”
However, in a testament to the diverse tastes and expectations among international tourists, Edwards’ criticisms were soon countered by a wave of robust defences from other recent guests. Many flocked to online platforms such as Tripadvisor and Google Reviews to share their own perspectives, with several suggesting that the hotel’s offerings were both “generous” and “diverse,” contrary to the original negative portrayal.
One particularly passionate reviewer on Tripadvisor, incensed by the disparaging comments, created an account specifically to address the controversy. Awarding the Lido Corfu Sun Hotel a five-star rating, the guest condemned what they described as “pathetic” demands for British food in a Greek setting. The review praised the establishment’s charm, proximity to the coastline, and clean facilities, while pointedly noting the absence of “British food” as a virtue.
Others responded more playfully, with one regular visitor joking that the hotel excelled in catering for “Scottish guests.” Their tongue-in-cheek account listed Irn Bru on tap, square sausage for breakfast, and even scotch pies and haggis, before concluding with praise for the Greek offerings—reminding readers of the hotel’s home country.
Across Google Reviews, more appreciative feedback surfaced, with guests highlighting the warm welcome received, attentive service, and accessibility to facilities—even for those arriving at odd hours. Reviewers insisted that the food was fresh and varied, with many giving the hotel the highest possible rating.
The Lido Corfu Sun’s manager also addressed the concerns directly, describing the daily menus as “generous and diverse,” with an emphasis on fresh salads, fruits, and a variety of hot and cold dishes. According to the manager, the hotel strives to balance international tastes with Greek specialities, aiming to satisfy a wide range of visitors.
In response to Edwards’ ordeal, holiday provider TUI issued an apology, emphasising their commitment to ensuring positive experiences for all customers. By way of consolation, they offered Ms Edwards £100 in holiday vouchers and said they were liaising with her to resolve the matter.
The debate has reignited conversation across social media about the expectations of British holidaymakers travelling abroad. While some believe familiar food should be readily available in popular tourist destinations, others argue that part and parcel of visiting another country is immersing oneself in local culture—including its cuisine.
Amidst a swirl of opinions, the Lido Corfu Sun Hotel’s reputation remains buoyed by many satisfied customers, who appear to relish both the taste of Greece itself—and the perennial unpredictability of holiday expectations.