Crete: The Don'ts of Visiting Crete, Greece

Summary

This video provides an engaging and informative guide to visiting Crete, Greece. The speaker highlights key attractions, such as stunning hikes through the island's gorges and the importance of exploring beyond all-inclusive resorts for authentic local food. It emphasizes Crete's vast size and the need for car rentals to explore effectively. Practical tips are shared on the best times to visit, travel options, and local customs, such as toilet paper disposal. The speaker also touches on the island’s clean waters and the variety of activities available, making it an appealing destination year-round.

Takeaways

• 😀 Crete's Samaria Gorge is a must-see for hikers, offering stunning natural beauty and a fascinating myth involving Titans.
• 😀 Don't limit yourself to all-inclusive resorts in Crete; to truly experience the best food, venture out and explore local dining options.
• 😀 Crete is a large island, so it's best to focus on one area, rent a car, and explore gradually rather than attempting to cover the whole island in a day.
• 😀 July and August are peak tourist seasons in Crete, resulting in crowded places and higher prices. Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for a more pleasant experience.
• 😀 Winter months (December-February) are not ideal for visiting Crete, though it's the best Greek island for winter tourism due to its relatively active season.
• 😀 If traveling by ferry to Crete, be sure to reserve a seat or a cabin in advance to avoid uncomfortable situations with overcrowded areas.
• 😀 Flying to Crete is a convenient alternative to the ferry, with many airlines offering multiple daily flights from mainland Greece and other European destinations.
• 😀 Be mindful of local plumbing issues in older accommodations. Ask whether toilet paper can be flushed, as some places require it to be disposed of in trash bins.
• 😀 Crete's beaches and waters are known for their cleanliness, making it an excellent destination for activities like scuba diving and glass-bottom boat rides.
• 😀 Crete offers a variety of accommodation types, catering to different budgets, making it an affordable destination for travelers seeking a range of experiences.
• 😀 Crete's local hospitality and food culture are standout features that will make your visit memorable, even for those who aren't typically beach enthusiasts.

Q & A

What is the myth associated with Crete's Gorge?

The myth surrounding Crete's Gorge is that it was created by a Titan with a knife, giving it its dramatic and gorge-like appearance.

Why should visitors consider leaving all-inclusive resorts when visiting Crete?

While all-inclusive resorts provide convenience, they often serve buffet-style food, which isn't the best option for experiencing Crete's rich local cuisine. Exploring outside the resorts allows you to enjoy freshly prepared, specialized dishes.

What is the recommended way to explore Crete, given its size?

Crete is a large island (300 km across), so it's best to choose a region to explore at a time. Renting a car allows visitors to thoroughly explore one part of the island before possibly venturing to another area.

What are the peak tourist seasons in Crete and why should visitors consider avoiding them?

The peak tourist seasons in Crete are July and August, when the island becomes crowded, and prices rise. For a more relaxed experience, it's recommended to visit during the shoulder seasons, such as April, May, June, or September, October.

What is the situation like in Crete during the winter months?

Crete still has some activity during the winter, unlike other Greek islands, but many services are reduced. While it's quieter, it is still considered one of the better Greek islands to visit in winter because there's more to do compared to other islands like Santorini.

What is a crucial tip for traveling by ferry to Crete?

It is essential to reserve a seat or cabin when taking the ferry to Crete to avoid the inconvenience of sitting with your bags in a corner or waiting for a seat to become available.

Is flying to Crete a good alternative to taking the ferry?

Yes, flying to Crete is a convenient option. There are multiple airlines that fly to Crete, with several flights per day, and sometimes flying is even more affordable and faster than taking the ferry.

Why might it be important to ask if you can flush toilet paper in certain accommodations in Crete?

In some older buildings or rural areas in Crete, the plumbing may not be able to handle toilet paper. It’s important to ask whether you can flush it or if you need to dispose of it in a nearby bin.

What are some of the activities visitors can enjoy in Crete's waters?

Visitors to Crete can enjoy a variety of water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and taking boat trips to experience the island's clean, crystal-clear waters.

What type of accommodation options are available in Crete besides all-inclusive resorts?

Crete offers a variety of accommodation options beyond all-inclusive resorts, including independent hotels, guesthouses, and private villas, providing a more personalized experience for visitors.