Crete

Crete, Crete, Crete, where do I begin?

Looking back on our trip to Crete, the locals' warmth and generosity really stood out. Every meal felt like dining with family; the waitstaff often shared Ouzo with us and surprised us with free plates of fresh fruit after we'd finished eating. Even when we were stuffed, we couldn't resist taking another bite, sometimes to the point of feeling like we might burst! Our hotel manager seemed grumpy at first, but he was always helpful and provided great service, showing his softer side.

The food was amazing, especially the seafood dishes. We did try some Italian food, but it was super creamy, which didn't sit well with my lactose-intolerant girlfriend. Surprisingly, the best souvlaki we had was at our hotel's all-inclusive restaurant—fresh, hearty, and grilled just right. We also found out that Greek coffee, especially the traditional kind similar to Turkish coffee, had a rich and bold flavor that we quickly grew to love.

Crete's beaches were huge and full of life, offering affordable relaxation. We spent many days checking out different spots, but the beach just a short walk from our hotel turned out to be our favorite—a lucky find! The drinks were cheap and strong, adding to the laid-back vibe.

Our bus ride to Rethymno was an adventure on its own. The bus operators, with their lively personalities, treated everyone with a mix of humor and assertiveness. Schedules seemed flexible, and everything was cash-only, but the buses were comfy and air-conditioned, a nice break from the heat.

Rethymno charmed us with its rich history and bustling waterfront. We wandered through the quaint side streets, and my girlfriend, a book lover, was thrilled with the local bookstores' selection of history books. The locals continued to impress us with their friendliness. I visited a beautifully preserved old mosque; though it wasn't open for worship, its architecture and peacefulness were deeply moving.

One thing we didn't expect was the island's steep hills. Climbing them gave us quite the workout, but by the end of our trip, we felt fitter than ever, with legs that could rival an athlete's!

Our Cretan adventure was full of delightful surprises, warm interactions, and unforgettable moments that we'll cherish for years to come.