Guidebooks tend to say unpleasant things about Lamia. They are wrong,
The Hotel Samaras is very good at the basics. A clean and comfortable room. It is very close to both main squares with good restaurants and cafes and bars.
What makes the Hotel Samaras excellent is the people who work there. The desk staff was kind, and friendly, and helpful -- and also professional. The housekeeping staff were also friendly and first-rate.
Good people make a good hotel even better. Hoyel Samaras has an excellent staff.