Crete

 The island of Crete has a unique history dating back to ancient times due to its relative isolation from the mainland of Greece and its proximity to North Africa, Egypt and the coast of Palestine. This geographic position on the crossroads of 3 continents has meant that, depending on the dominant power in the eastern Mediterranean, Crete has been drawn into various orbits of influence, political and economic. Crete’s heritage is woven by the rich tapestry of these different cultural influences and its ancient history is steeped in mythology including the legend of King Minos; Theseus and the Minotaur as well as Daedalus and Icarus. These mythological legends have been passed to us via Greek historians and poets such as Homer and it is from these as well as archaelogical findings that we know that Crete was the centre of the Minoan Civilization, the most ancient civilization in Europe. Evidence of Crete’s rich heritage can be seen in places of historic interest all over the island.

Rethymno Crete - view from the mountains	Rethymno Plakias - South Crete	Agia Galini Port-South Crete	Rethymno Beaches
Flowers of Crete	Flowers on the mountain of Crete	Traditional village in Rethymno Province	Arkadi Monastery - Rethymno

  Crete’s position in the Southern most part of Europe affords it a very desirable climate. Sun deprived people from all over the world, but in particular northern Europeans, come here in their millions to bask in the radiant Cretan sun particularly during the summer months. However Crete enjoys clement weather throughout the year. Even in the winter the average temperature still levels out at around 14 C with rainy days interrupted by plenty of sunny days.

The weather is one of the main advantages mentioned by people looking to make Crete their new home. Another important factor is the quality of life that people can enjoy if they decide to buy a house in Crete. Generally Crete is a more relaxed place and most things are done at a slower pace than in peoples’ home countries. Social events and holidays take precedent over work and career obligations and there always seems to be a gathering of one sort or another taking place. The Cretans are famous for their joie de vivre and these vibrant people are very proud of their reputation for hospitality. This often takes precedent of other matters and they always make time to enjoy themselves.  

The Cretans retain their traditions which they are very proud of. These include the island national dress, folk dances and music which are specific to the Island. Weddings and christenings are still celebrated in the traditional way and are generally large affairs which can last for 3 days!

  Crete boasts the lowest crime rate in Europe and this is an advantage that makes the island even more attractive. The towns and villages have a strong sense of community and a general feeling of security prevails. Even in the early hours of the morning old and young can be seen on the streets.

 The cost of living in Crete is relatively low compared to countries like Spain and Italy and it is calculated that a couple can live quite comfortably on £10,000 while running a small car, having private medical insurance and still afford to eat out several times a week. This of course makes it an ideal retirement destination.

These factors aside the undeniably natural beauty of Crete is what initially impresses its many visitors every year. Crete is made up of a fascinating combination of rugged mountains, caves, deep ravines, long sandy beaches, pebbly coves and interesting villages. Who wouldn't want to buy a home in Crete set in such wonderful surroundings! Varying regions on the island provide differing landscapes each one with its own unique attributes. The largest gorge in the whole of Europe at 11km in length is found here and it rightfully attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Crete is simply steeped in history and has a culture coloured by its many conquerors, evidence of which can be seen all over the Island. Crete is the home of Europe's first advanced civilization, the Minoan, which was contemporary with nearby advanced Egyptian and Mesopotamian cultures. The six-storey Minoan Knossos palace complex on Crete probably originated the myths of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur (half man, half bull). It had the world's first known flush toilets and sewers and was largely uncovered during archaeological excavations by Sir Arthur Evans. Many of the artefacts recovered from Knossos and other important sites on the island can be seen in the Archaelogical Museum in Heraklion.

As well as the interesting historical and cultural value of the island Crete also has many activities for its visitors to enjoy. There are water sports including windsurfing and diving available along its coast, as well as mountaineering and walking groups inland. Horse riding through the breathtaking Cretan landscape and along the sandy beaches is available in several locations throughout the island including Zoraida’s Horse riding centre in Georgioupolis. The Crete Golf Club, which is situated in Hersonissos, has increased the island’s attraction as a holiday destination and location for retirement. The new Bob Hunt masterpiece is best described as a desert golf course hewn out of rolling landscape little more than half an hour from the international airport of Heraklion. It boasts a series of memorable holes that test every aspect of a golfer's repertoire and offers stunning views over the unspoilt mountainous landscape.

Crete doesn’t depend solely on tourism having agriculture as another very important activity so there are several tavernas, restaurants, shops and bars open throughout the year especially in towns such as Rethymnon which has a large university with plenty of students to keep things lively throughout the winter. The island grows much of its own produce and also exports produce elsewhere.

As a member state of the European Community Greece can provide free health care to foreign EU citizens resident or staying on Crete. The national healthcare service is actually very good and generally meets the demands made on it although some people prefer to use the private clinics and their many doctors.

It is believed that Crete will not be spoiled by the increase in the number of homes being built because Greek building regulations are very strict. Crete will not suffer the kind of overdevelopment apparent in some areas of Spain and Italy. In particular there are laws about building along the coastline and in forest areas which are strictly enforced.

Access to the island particularly by air constantly expands. Crete can be reached easily in the summer from May through to the end of October by charter flights that arrive at the airports of both Chania in the West and Heraklion in the East of the island. GB airways alone which is a part of British Airways doubled their flights to Crete in the summer of 2007 with five direct flights a week from Gatwick to Heraklion and new direct services from Manchester.

 Building The Home Of Your Dreams In Crete!