Crete "Out in the dark blue sea there lies a land called Crete, a rich and lovely land, washed by the waves on every side..." --- The Odyssey   From fertile coastal plains to rugged barren mountains, from mellow stone houses to stark concrete modernity, from bustling capital to sleepy hill villages, Crete, the largest of the Greek Islands, is an island of contrasts. Home to around 650,000 people and several million olive trees, the island consists of four prefectures: Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion and Lasithi. Crete is a different world compared to other parts of Greece. Crete is a place with its own tradition, its own character and its own dialect. Local people are very proud of their Cretan origin. Throughout the island the remnants of occupation by invaders from the Romans, through to the Turks, can still be seen, with aqueducts and architecture still plainly visible. Popular tourist attractions include the archaeological sites of the Minoan civilisation, the Venetian old city and port of Chania, the Venetian castle at Rethymno, the gorge of Samaria, the islands of Chrysi, Elafonisi, Gramvousa, and Spinalonga and the Palm Beach of Vai, which is the largest natural palm forest in Europe.  In the south of the island, you will find hundreds of exotic beaches, some crowded and some isolated which can satisfy any taste. Crete is famous for its fruit and vegetable production. So by visiting Crete, you have the chance to taste the world-known Cretan diet based on vegetables and pure olive oil.

		HOTEL CHOICES
		Heraklion - New Lato Boutique Hotel First Class Set near the scenic harbour of Heraklion with views of the Venetian castle, 200m from city centre, the New Lato is a popular boutique style hotel. Facilities include: Reception, restaurant and bar, fitness centre, WiFi internet services. Rooms feature: balcony, satellite TV, A/C, minibar, internet ports, safety deposit box and hair dryer.
		Chania - Casa Delfino First Class Superb location, 5 minutes' walk from the old Venetian Harbour in Chania town. Casa Delfino is a restored 17th century mansion. Facilities include: breakfast room and bar.  Individually designed A/C suites feature: balcony, kitchenette, minibar and safe. 1 & 2 bedroom suites also available.
		Heraklion - Atrion Hotel Tourist Class Located a short walk from the Historical museum, seafront promenade and Venetian port. Hotel facilities include: restaurant, bar and 24hr reception. Rooms feature: A/C, balcony, minibar, safe, high speed internet and TV.
		Chania - Porto Veneziano Superior Tourist / Tourist Class A charming hotel with excellent views overlooking the Venetian style harbour and close to the town centre. Facilities include: restaurant, coffee shop, room service and internet. Rooms feature: private balcony, A/C, minibar and hair dryer.
		Heraklion - Irini Budget  Class 10 minutes walk from the centre of Heraklion. Facilities include: Reception, breakfast room, bar and snack bar, TV room and car parking.  Rooms feature: A/C, balcony, TV, safety deposit box and fridge
		Perla Beach Tourist Class Located very near to the beautiful Agia marina Beach. 9kms from Chania. A friendly family owned hotel just 30m from the beach, offers large studio and maisonette rooms with kitchenettes. Facilities include: swimming pool, lounge/TV room, sauna, and Wi-fi. Rooms feature: TV. A/C, balcony, safety deposit box.
		Sitia Beach Resort First Class NEW 2011 Sitia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel is situated on the sandy beach of Sitia Bay.  Only 5 min walk from the centre of the city, the marina, shops & tavernas.  The Hotel was completely renovated in 2007.  Hotel facilities bar, fitness room, pool, restaurant, spa centre, tennis court. Rooms feature: A/C, balcony, fridge, hairdryer & satellite TV.
		Chania - Casa Leone Special Category Casa Leone is an authentically restored historic Venetian villa build in the 15th century situated at the romantic Venetian port of Chania.  The hotel offers spacious rooms and  charming courtyard and views over the port.  Rooms feature: A/C, safe boxes, fridge, satellite TV, balcony, Wi Fi internet and hairdryer.