It’s great to be travelling again!
Although there are forms to be filled out and tests to be completed, it really isn’t as bad as the press make out. Like anything new it seems a big deal the first time but once done, it’s all about looking forward to the holiday and enjoying the experience.
I’ve just come back from a wonderful visit to Crete, the largest of the Greek islands. Even during the recent restrictions to travel, Crete has continued to be a really popular holiday destination this year with UK holidaymakers, and I can now see why!
With less than a four-hour flight time and a warm climate right through until early November, it really does deserve its place as a top holiday destination. It combines great beaches and crystal blue seas, great food, wine, music and of course ancient sites to explore. The Palace of Knossos, not far from the capital Heraklion is not to be missed as is the Zakros Palace in the far east of the island.
Where to stay
There is a wide choice of accommodation all over the island and I did take the opportunity to visit a few resorts. For my recent visit I went to Elounda (also known as Elounta) in the Lasithi region which is in the Northeast of the island. I stayed at the 5* Elounda Bay Palace which is set on the edge of the tranquil Mirabello Bay and is truly blissful, surrounded by 20 acres of lush gardens of olive trees and oleander. This particular bay is more protected from the wind than some others and so offers a calmer sea for swimming and safe water sports. Where on the island you stay does make a big difference to your holiday as in parts of the island there are very strong winds that whip up the sea into strong waves, fine for surfers but less friendly for families.
Elounda Bay Palace is a Member of the Leading Hotels in the World and lives up to its award-winning luxury resort status by combining Crete’s charms, excellent hospitality and renowned levels of personalized service. I can highly recommend it; the staff are charming and there are accommodation options to suit all tastes and requirements. Nearby is the sister resort of Elounda Beach which offers more dining options, a wonderful spa, children’s centre and a typical Greek chapel.
The location of this resort is perfect for visiting the local villages where you will find shops and restaurants offering delicious local cuisine. If you like seafood it doesn’t get much fresher than the restaurant owner catching the fish during the day and then preparing it for you that evening.
Don’t miss out on a visit to Spinalonga
While you are in this region of Crete you will regret it if you don’t take the time to visit the tiny island of Spinalonga. Made famous by Victoria Hislop’s book ‘The Island’ published in 2005 which narrates the island’s time as a leper colony, its story is much more varied and rich than this sad but fascinating part of its history. A good guide (and I know one!) will also tell you about the times when it was conquered by the Venetians and the Ottoman Turks.
Discover beautiful Crete
Crete really does live up to its reputation for beautiful beaches, amazing food and a welcome smile around every corner. It also has a rich and captivating history which you can dive into as much or as little as you wish.
I really enjoyed my time on Crete and can recommend it for families and couples alike. It does have a wide range of resorts to choose from, but you need to do the research to ensure that you choose the right one to meet all your needs – better still, contact me and I’ll do it for you!
Personally, I just can’t wait to return!
As a Personal Travel Consultant, I am able to organise fantastic holidays all over the world that are completely ABTA and ATOL protected. Also being part of the Hays Travel Group, I have the backing and resource of the largest independent travel group in the UK – meaning great service and prices!