‘Culture’: a word that, in Crete, conjures images of Knossos and the enigmatic Phaistos Disc the moment it reaches your ears.

Culture, of course, began somewhere, but its journey is perpetual, and when you're in Crete – we'll say it again – culture is omnipresent.

1. When it comes to welcoming guests, the way people open their homes in Crete is truly special. They offer hospitality in the form of homemade delights, much like they would for their own family. However, in Crete, the concept of ‘family’ extends to guests, known as musafiris. It would go against our principles not to treat a guest to something. A few olives, a rusk with tomato -  dakos, that is - a little wine proudly labelled ‘of our own production’, and perhaps a glass of raki.
2. The way people honour their surroundings is remarkable: they tend to their yards, whitewash the walls, prune the plants, water the flower beds, and care for the churchyard and village square. Before every small or big celebration, everything is meticulously prepared to welcome even the locals who, for various reasons, have relocated – a common occurrence in Crete. This includes villagers who are said to have 'emigrated' when they have moved to larger cities on the island, such as Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion, or Agios Nikolaos.
3. The way they cook in Crete is a unique experience: take a stroll through the narrow streets of a village and don't hesitate to linger by a window, observing the person in the kitchen. They're not simply preparing a meal or dessert. They're crafting! In Crete, you'll often hear the phrase ‘Here, we …’.  Each locality takes pride in its local cuisine, that special ingredient or method that makes a dish truly exceptional. Here's an example: No matter how many kaltsounia you taste, none will be quite the same!
4. The way they enjoy themselves: The table is never bare; hands join together, groups gather, and suddenly the dancing commences! If you want to join in, don't just sit there. IT'S SHAMEFUL (Yes, it is!)! Follow a Cretan and attempt to mirror the movements of their legs and arms. But even if you don't quite get it right, what matters at the end of the evening, or perhaps early the next morning, is this: Did you have a good time?

In Crete, we want our visitors to leave with smiles of happiness. If you arrive by plane, take a moment to observe those at departures. If you notice someone looking glum, it's probably because they wish they could stay a little longer. In their luggage, they'll carry some of our blessed olive oil and all the gifts bestowed upon them by their newfound friends. (By ‘friends’, we mean those Cretans they've met and instantly connected with).

Before you purchase your tickets, ask yourself: ‘How many times can I come back to Crete?’ Whatever you're thinking, trust us, the answer is ‘plenty’!

P.S. A warm embrace awaits you here. You'll encounter love and respect, and we hope for the same in return. 

Explore the villages of Crete and experience the true meaning of ‘Cretan hospitality’!

Explore the natural wonders of Crete and discover activities you can enjoy alone, with friends, or with your family!

Discover the cultural richness of Crete (can you handle it?)!

Discover places where you can dine and enjoy entertainment, from early morning until the break of dawn!

Photos: Region of Crete