Crete – God’s Own Island

Crete, the largest Greek island in the Mediterranean, is one of the finest creations of God. It has practically everything to enthrall all human beings.

Its picturesque hills are dotted with pretty hamlets and oak, olive, pine and cypress trees; and its beautiful town with quaint buildings are most enchanting. Its long silvery sandy beaches are most tempting to go for a swim in the turquoise blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Its rocky bays and old harbors with seagulls flying over them are like perfect pictures from a book on your coffee table.

You will find ancient ruins practically everywhere in Crete. The ancient Minoan civilization originated in the Knossos region when the first settlers established themselves some 7000 years before Jesus Christ was born. Those early settlements continued to develop gradually and they amassed considerable resources and mastered adequate skills to build magnificent palaces in the second millennium BC. The majestic Minoan Palace complex at Knossos is an evidence of their skilled building techniques, architectural planning and refined aesthetical taste.

Phaistos and Gortys are the other two famous archaeological sites of immense historical importance. But Crete is not only about natural beauty and old relics. This antique land also offers most exotic food and exciting nightlife opportunities.

Walking is the best way to explore Crete. Walk along the coast and enjoy the sea and activities on the beach. Or climb up the friendly hills. You will come across many gorges and villages. You will meet warm-hearted friendly people wherever you go. It won’t be difficult to locate a restaurant where you can have a traditional Greek lunch when you are hungry.

Rethymno is a major city. It flourished during the Venetian occupation in the 16th century. It is a lovely city divided into two distinct areas – the Old and the New. The old part is absolutely adorable with cobble-stone narrow streets and narrower lanes. Its old buildings with impressive facades and arched doorways bear the testimony of the town’s aristocratic pedigree. The historic sites of Byzantine and Roman periods are ample evidence of the town’s ancient heritage. The small harbor that the Venetians built is still a wonderful site that the travelers adore.

The Fortezza Castle, built in late 16th century at the top of a low hill, for protecting the city from attacking Turks and occasional pirates, now offers a panoramic view of the city. The Venetian Loggia is another Venetian legacy of architectural excellence where they once had their exclusive club, converted now to a government office.

There are many hotels in Crete. A 5-star will cost you around 200 Euros, a good budget for less than half of that.

Plenty of shopping options are available, from popular gifts and souvenirs to antiques – mostly fake and rarely original.

Cretans love their outdoors and, weather permitting, entertain guests in the open air. It could a dinner with live music under a sky bedecked with stars or a romantic moon. Or it could be in the afternoon under a mild sun with pergolas over your heads covered with grape vines. Greek cuisine is absolutely superb and Cretans give it a special exotic touch. A glass of locally distilled Raki with crushed ice goes fine with whatever you eat.