Zoe is here with an excellent list of what to do to make your summer visit to Crete enjoyable from start to finish.
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The large island of Crete is a place offering a plethora of fun and enjoyable things to do for your ultimate summer holiday! Either you are an adventurous type of holidaymaker or just seeking for a relaxing retreat, Crete will surely keep you pleased to the maximum. However, because your summer break should definitely be an unforgettable one without any unpleasant surprises you’d better keep in mind things that you should give a try or avoid.
Dos
As summer is mostly famous for the long sunshine and refreshing sea waters, it would be a total shame not to indulge yourself in the crystal clear waters of the Cretan Sea or just lie on a golden sand beach to soak up that all important Greek sun.
Do visit, some of Crete’s best beaches, such as Ammoudara Beach in Heraklion. This is an extra long stretch of sand catering for all tastes. If it’s convenience and attentive service you are look for, choose the area right in front of Creta Beach Hotel & Bungalows, where you’ll get the chance to stay lying on comfy sun loungers shaded by thatch parasols and enjoy your beach day in an absolutely pleasant and calm ambiance. Another great seashore not to be missed is the exotic Falasarna in Chania in the northwest part of Crete, featuring fine golden sand and turquoise waters rivaling those of the Caribbean. You can either head to crowded parts where beach bars give a joyful beat or choose your isolated space in this 3km-long beach.
Do go sightseeing. Famous for the remaining treasures of the Minoan civilization, Crete is a paradise for culture vultures who want to admire the grandeur of Crete’s past. Visit the palaces of Knossos and Faistos and of course the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion displaying a complete collection of Minoan artifacts.
Do taste the succulent and flavorful Cretan cuisine. Foodies and veggies will love local cuisine, including mouthwatering delights, such as ntakos (rusks covered with feta cheese and chopped tomatoes), hohlioi bourbouristoi (snails cooked in red sauce), antikristo (lamb cooked on the ground in pieces set opposite one another) and last but not least the sweet treats like kalitsounia or lychnarakia made with honey and a soft cheese called myzithra.
Do spend a day in each main city of Crete. To conveniently get around the island it would be wise to stay in a central accommodation offering easy access to the public transportation. Akali Hotel is situated in the heart of Chania and right next to the bus station taking you all over Crete!
Don’ts
No matter how friendly the locals are and regardless of Crete’s unparallelled beauty, there are some pretty tricky aspects you’ll have to pay attention to.
First of all, use your sunblock cream all day long to savor only the positive effects of the Mediterranean sun and save your skin from the painful event of being sun burnt.
Also, do not attempt strenuous hiking or mountain riding in July or August, drink plenty of water and wear a hat.
Do not think pristine nature is that friendly! Watch out and take precautions. Wear your water shoes to avoid stepping onto sea urchins, for example, and οpt for an outfit covering most of your body as snakes love the summer, especially in the famous Cretan gorges.
Don’t forget your personal first aid kit to deal with possible stings of jellyfish or wasps.
Don’t rush into the first cafe or restaurant you’ll see. Take your time and wander around, checking the prices.
A relaxing and carefree holiday is everybody’s wish, but do not forget that prevention is always better than cure!