Freelance Holidays Crete Guide

Information

File

This booklet is to be used during your holiday & to be left in the accommodation for the next visitors.
Please do not remove it as the next guests will not have access to this information & it means we have
to deliver a new one. You can download your own digital copy from www.dianas-travel.com

Welcome to Crete!

For nearly 30 years I have been providing local service & representing Freelance Holidays on
Crete & I am happy to say that I still enjoy every part of what I do. Promoting Crete & being
able to assist Freelance Holidays clients, that is what keeps me going!

Having done this for so many years, I have had the pleasure to meet many people from all
over the world & of course; sometimes the same people keep coming back year after year,
which is great (feels like family). So I welcome you back & wish any first time travelers to
Crete an enjoyable experience.

I hope you have made yourselves comfortable and are starting to unwind and switch over to
‘holiday mode’. I have specifically made a list of all the ‘necessary’ things that you should
need within your first day on the laminated sheet titled ‘Property Manual’. It’s basically all the
immediate things that you need for the first 24 hours, so please ensure you read that first! It is
usually in the kitchen hanging up or by the entrance door.

You can then later take a read of this file & use the maps to better orientate yourselves. I take
pride in this information file as it is literally all my years of experience & advice at your
fingertips. Maps that show the relevant information in the text is next to it, yet the other maps
showing interesting places to see & the other Freelance properties are at the back. The Index
will help you find what you are looking for.

My motto “Report it to Sort it”- has worked well in the past. Many times people think
something isn’t important enough to let me know when they are here on Crete & they go
back home & I get to hear it after they have left. By that time I cannot help- whereas in many
circumstances there are situations which I could have sorted it out while they were here. If
something is reported to me I will do my best to get it sorted.

Please remember the motto & give me a call if you need anything during your stay, that is
why I am here & this is what I love doing. If you don’t report it, I can’t sort it.

Positive feedback is always welcome & useful so we know we are doing it right. So please
take the time & tell us about your holiday experience with Freelance Holidays upon returning.

Thank you & have a great stay!

Diane Steger Koronaki
Diana’s Travel-Manager
Freelance Holidays-Greece Operations Director

Diana’s Travel or Freelance Holidays Diana’s Travel (rozzaki)
(by all means like us!)

Table of Contents Page
3
Key to Maps 4
Facility Map Index

Helpful guidelines for Safety & Health Issues 5
Important Contacts & Emergency Numbers 6
Map 1 – Showing Freelance Holidays Office in Diana’s Travel 7
General Safety 8
Cleaning Service & Rubbish Removal 9-10
Household Items- Security - Getting Locked Out 11
Greek Language 12
Air Conditioning Units

Medical Services & Hospital & Pharmacies 13
Map B- Doctors in Chania 14
Health Precautions & First Aid Tips 15
Swimming Pool Rules & Advice 16-17

Shopping & Eating 18
General Facilities Banks & Post Office -Telephones- Internet 19
Map C- Chania town facilities 20
Shopping- Covered Market (Agora) & Street Markets 21
Souvenirs & Handicrafts 22-23
Supermarkets- Minimarkets - Fresh Meat- Fish & Vegetables 24-25
Map H Supermarkets- Fruit Shopping - Fresh Bread 26-27
Cretan Recipes - Cretan Products

Eating Out - Greek Food 28-30
Map A1 – Tavernas in Chania Town 31
Chania Town Tavernas 32-33
Map 2- Recommended Tavernas around Crete 34
Recommended Taverna Descriptions 35-40
Area Map for Tavernas near Agia Paraskevi & Kerames 41
Ordering Coffee -Cretan Sweets- 42-43
Map A2 – Chania town light lunches & snacks 44
Take Away & Light Snacks 45-46

Exploring Crete

Most Popular Attractions on Crete____________________________________________ 47

Beaches & Tanning Tips - Map 3- Beach Guide of Western Crete 48-49

Paleochora Beaches- Map for Beaches near Agia Paraskevi 50-51

Bowling /Cinema/ Fun Park/ Go Carting Play centers for Toddlers 52

Douliana Walks - Map 25 Apokoronou Walking Map Guide 53-54

Radio & TV - Greek Siestas 55-56
Public Holidays 57
Museums & Interesting Places 58
Public Buses & Local Taxis - Carhire & Helpful Hints driving 59-60

Departure Information Page
61
Confirming Return Flights -Departure Day 62
Left Luggage - Getting Back to the Airport- Return Taxis 63-64
Car Hire Returns Chania Airport & Map 28 Chania Airport 65-66
Map 29 Heraklion Airport

Area Maps

Crete Sections 1-4 Showing Interesting places 67-70
Map D National Highway Exits & Speed Camera locations 71
Map E Interesting Driving Routes 72
Map F Directions to Parking in Chania from West 73
Map G Directions to Parking in Chania from East 74
Map 4a National Highway to Chania Airport 75

Map 5 Agios Matheos/ Halepa –El. Venizelos Home & Memorial 76
77-78
Map 6-6a-Kalamaki–Stalos Terpsichori Apts 79-80
81-82
Map 6b-6c Stalos Pavlakis Beach & Rouladina Apts 83
84
Map 6e-6f Upper Stalos- Georgokastello - Villa Clio - Villa Panos 85

Map 7 Agia Marina- Villa Ilios

Map 8 Varipetro- Maro’s Spitaki

Map 9 Chania Town Beach & West Chania Harbour Area

Map 11 Vyrsses- Villa Faye 86
87
Map 12 Agioi Pantes – Villa Toula 88
89
Map 13 Kalives- Kyani Beach Villa 90
91
Map 14 Kastelli/Kissamos 92
93
Map 16 Meskla- Villa Meskla

Map 17 Chora Sfakia – Ferry to Loutro & Agia Roumeli

Map 18 Douliana- Iliopetra Apts & Studios

Map 19 Almerida- Villa Nynemia – Villa Kallisto

Map 20 Plaka- Villa Afrati – Villa Zara ___ 94
95
Map 21 Sfinari- Pericles Beach Villa – Villa Meli 96-98
99
Map 22 & 22b Paleochora – Harbour Apts. 100

Map 24 Gavalohori- Villa Metapothia 101
102
Map 26 Samonos & Provarma- Villa Nikoletta & Villa Vigla

Map 27 Armeni- Villa Galania –Villa Amvrosia &

Villa Maragoudi & Villa Christina

Map 30 Vrysses/Maza Villa Artemis- Villa Avra- Villa Olivia

Map 31 Koukounara- Villa Kyriaki 103

Map 33 Agia Paraskevi- Emilios, Manolis & Argyro’s House 104

Map 34 Kerames- Kionia Apts- Villa Bay & Villa Chyrssa 105

Map 35 Megala Chorafia – Aptera Apartments 106

Map 36 Spilia – Yiannis House 107

Map 37 Vamos 108

Map 38 Loutraki – Villa Loutraki & VillaMarathi & Villa Roula 109

Map 40 Chania Town Walk Guide & Notes for the Chania Walk 110-111

KEY TO MAPS

bakery bus stop
bar taverna
ferries
exchange taxi rank
launderette
road sign
cinema post office
hair dresser O.T.E telephone office

fruit n veg post box
phone box
fresh fish
super market parking
mini market ruins
camera supplies
petrol station blue recycle bin
one way street
kiosk
pharmacy foot path / track
church
bank
marina
medical centre / hospital

police

Page 3

FACILITY MAP- INDEX

Crete Area Map 1 Crete Area Map 2

14 2&3 Crete Area Map 3
31
A-B-C 28
21
F-G 5 38 25 Crete Area Map 4
9 4a
29
7 16c 6 6a 113182932470
6b 3433

36 86e 6f 35
27
23
16 26
1211 30

Page 4 17
22

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

Freelance Holiday’s Office

is represented locally by Diana’s Travel, (see the Map 1 for location)

Diane Steger Koronaki, Manager & Crete/Kefalonia Operations Director

Address : Daskaloyianni Str. Chryssi Akti, Chania, Crete 73100

Office: +30 28210 33575

Mobile: +30 6944 453 008 (available 24/7)- or by viber or imessage

Office Hours:

Mon-Friday Sat

9am - 2pm & 6pm - 9pm 10am - 2pm

In early & late season, the office may not be manned at these hours, so ring Diane on her mobile.

Driving Instructions for Diana’s Travel-
When coming from either direction on the National Highway, take the exit signposted for Omalos
& Chania. Follow signs for Chania – after 1,3kms a large junction with traffic lights- Turn LEFT in
the direction of Kissamos (in front of the Cyclon Petrol station). Carry on this road for 3kms, at the
2nd set of traffic lights TURN RIGHT, with Eko Petrol Station on corner. Diana’s Travel is 80m
from the traffic light on the right. There is a parking area just beyond the office that is off the road,
to avoid parking curbside.

National Tourist Organization

Kydonia Str. 29, Chania (See Map C) Tel 28210 36155

British Consulate

Papalehardrou 16, Heraklion, Tel. 2810 224012

Police 100 (an all-purpose emergency number)

Ambulance/ First Aid 166

Fire Department 199

In any type of emergency situation, please contact Diane for assistance.

Page 5

DIANA’S TRAVEL
FREELANCE HOLIDAYS

Bamboo Zygos Iguana Golden Chryssi Nikolas
Salavantes Beach Fun Park-bowling Akti Beach Taverna
Kalamaki
Kalamaki taverna Beach Agia Apostoli Kladisos
Beach
Kalliston Hotel Aptera
Beach

Park Hair salon Supermarket Cyclon
Petrol
Lidl Monderno
Sweet shop

Pirelli- BP

Tire
Panorama Repair JUMBO
Hotel Terpsichori bus shop Toy store
BP stop Chemist
Porto Planakis To Chania
Kalamaki Hotel
Sirios Open Mon-Fri BP
24 hr Mornings & afternoons Petrol Traffic
Shop Open Sat mornings Lights

New exit/access
to National Hwy

IN.KA

Nikos
Taverna

Police Station Chania &
Omalos
Page 6 AREA MAP - FREELANCE HOLIDAYS Exit

1 DIANA’S TRAVEL LOCATION To Omalos

To Omalos road (NOT TO SCALE)

GENERAL SAFETY

Part of the enjoyment of travelling abroad is experiencing a different way of life. Please
remember though, that it may also mean experiencing different safety and hygiene standards
from those that you are used to at home. EU standards are aiming to be the highest in the
world however, many developing countries and resorts still have a way to go to bring their
services up to the level we normally take for granted. We will of course do our best to ensure
that your holiday is safe and trouble-free, but we do ask that you take extra care while you
are away.

BALCONIES
If you are travelling with young children, please make sure that they are not left unsupervised.
Keep balcony furniture away from railings so that they are not encouraged to climb up.
Please do not stand, climb or lean on balconies or balustrades.

BARBEQUE
Please do not leave the Barbeque unattended when in use and make sure that it is
extinguished after use. Please remember not to put hot ashes in plastic rubbish bags and
please leave the barbeque area clean when finished. Charcoal for the BBQ & firelighters are
sold in mini markets sometimes in a brown bag or loose in plastic shopping bags. To ask for it
in Greek just say ‘karvouna’.

BATHROOMS
Non-slip mats are not usually provided, so please take extra care to ensure
you do not slip when bathing or showering. The hot water from the taps
can, on occasions, be scolding hot. Particular care should be taken when
bathing or showering children.

As normal in Greece, you have to put the toilet paper in the bins that are
provided and not in the toilet! It will block drains & require a visit from a
plumber. Please tell all members in your party of this rule. This also applies
for public toilets.

CHILDREN
As we know children are naturally curious, especially when on holiday where there are lots of
areas and things to be explored. Please ensure that children are not left unsupervised at
anytime during your holiday and be extra careful around the swimming pool, on balconies,
stairs, raised terraces or gardens. Make sure that your children always know where you will
be and stress the importance of staying close by.

DRINKING WATER
Drinking the water on Crete is safe although if you are prone to stomach
irritations & for small children it is best to stick with bottled water, which luckily
on Crete, is very inexpensive when bought at mini markets & supermarkets.

Water needs to be saved & sometimes the local council cuts the supply
without warning for a few hours usually in the peak season. So if suddenly the
water isn’t working, that is usually the reason. You can check with a neighbour to see if they
have water or not or give Diane a call & she can try to find out if it is a local cut & for how
long. Do not go for too many hours without water & not reporting it, as it could very well be an
internal plumbing problem that can be fixed sooner!

Page 7

CLEANING SERVICE &

RUBBISH DISPOSAL

CLEANING SERVICE
The cleaner will come again on the 3rd or 4th day after your arrival to bring you
clean sheets & towels. She will also empty the rubbish & toilet rubbish, sweep
& mop. It is a good idea to keep out of her way so that she can be efficient &
get on with her duties. Note that on the departure day the property needs to
be ready for the next arrivals, so please respect the 10am departure time.
Tipping is acceptable.

RUBBISH & RECYLING

As more and more people are becoming conscious of environmental Symbol for
issues and we at Freelance are supportive of this effort, we would like to Blue bins in
ask that you participate in doing ‘your part’ whilst on holiday by separating Map Section
your rubbish. Some of the owners supplied a 2nd bin for so that the

rubbish can be separated. If you don’t have a second bin you can always

use a plastic shopping bag for recyclables. Note that you will have to take

the rubbish to the bins as the cleaner will no doubt put all the rubbish

together.

The recyclable rubbish goes into the BLUE bins which are usually next to the

green ones.

The normal rubbish & toilet bins go in the green bins & will be removed by the

cleaner. We thank you for co-operating & we hope that your efforts & example

will encourage more locals to ‘think green’.

INSECTS
Mosquitoes, ants, cockroaches and other insects are endemic in warmer climates, particularly
in country areas. Ant powders are a good repellent but it also helps to keep crumbs to a
minimum. Mosquitoes can be kept at bay by a good repellent, which can be purchased in the
local mini markets and supermarkets. For inside, it is best that you use machines with tablets
or liquid in your bedroom and for outside you can burn coils (ensure the hot ash isn’t going to
stain/burn any surfaces). Check the bedside tables as usually there are machines left for your
use. Note that you need to replace the tablets every 8 hours (they start off blue or green then
go white).

CATS
Stray cats are quite common on Crete & the temptation to feed & look
after them can be irresistible but please do not use the plates & bowls
from the house. Also please do not let the cats inside the
accommodation as they can damage the furniture & the next guests
may be allergic to them. Remember they are strays & haven’t had the proper injections etc.
A note of warning for a property located in the countryside, leaving doors open & unattended
especially at night is an invitation for mice to come in.

ELECTRICITY & LIGHTS

The electricity supply can be unreliable and power cuts are common. If there is a power cut, first

see if you can tell if any neighbours have electricity by asking them or seeing if any lights are on.

If you aren’t sure then contact Diane who will then get advice from the owner or electric

company to see if it is a cut & to try to find out for how long. Think Green and save energy by

ensuring that all house lights are off during the day & please do not leave air conditioners on

while you are away. Usually the outside lights & pool lights are on a timer, unless specifics

are mentioned on your “Property Manual” & you need to find the switch. Bulbs due burn out
Page 8
so let us know if it needs replaced.

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS

As you are renting the property of a private owner we feel sure you will give it the same care
and consideration as you would your own.

REMOVING PROPERTY

We must ask you DO NOT take household items such as towels, blankets and patio furniture
away from the property as these can invariably get damaged, lost or broken, spoiling the next
guests’ comfort. Please do not use the white bath towels as floor mats. In addition, indoor
furniture must not be taken outside.

BREAKAGES / DAMAGE

We realize that accidents do occur from time to time and it would be elpful
if you could notify the owner or Diane of any damages at the first
opportunity, so that replacements can be speedily obtained. As stated in
the booking conditions you would be required to cover replacement costs
as appropriate. Please take care of shutters and doors and screens- especially on windy days
or drafts that are created when two doors are open at the same time. You will be held
responsible for damages to the property if damages occur due to your negligence. For small
breakages with items such as glasses and plates, it is useful to let the owner know so that
they can buy similar replacement, note that a glass is about €2,00 and a plate is about €3,00
– if you do not have a way of contacting someone you may leave it with a note before you
leave.

SECURITY

Crete is still very safe in comparison to other holiday destinations. But this doesn’t mean that
you should allow yourself to be a target. The same goes for your hire car, lock things in the
boot rather than leaving them noticeable on the seat.

It is advisable to lock up when you go out or are sleeping – better to be safe than sorry.
Double check that the doors are fastened securely as they may take a bit of getting used to at
first. Leaving windows open and locking shutters when you go out is
usually safe and it keeps the inside cooler.

In the unlikely event of a theft, the first step is to notify Diane. A theft
must be reported within 24 hours. All theft and lost items involving
articles of value over the amount of the excess on your insurance
policy must be reported to the police nearest to the area where the
theft took place. i.e. if you were out for the day on the south coast then
you must report it there, not when you get back to your resort. This is
an absolute necessity.

Unfortunately, in the past few years a number of tourists have made false claims of a theft in
order to make an insurance claim –which has made the local police vary weary of a ‘true’
theft, as they are still quite rare.

Page 9

GETTING LOCKED OUT

Please note that it is normal here in Greece for entrance doors NOT to have a handle on the
outside. So it is therefore very easy to get locked out if the door slams shut in a breeze or if
you just forget the key! If your key is in the lock on the inside, this makes it impossible to open
it from the outside with another key. A locksmith is then required to get the door open and you
will be responsible to pay him.
So helpful hints:
• keep the key in your pocket
• leave the key on the outside of the door (when you are around

the property)
• find a hiding place outside of the house so all members of the party have access
• use something to brace the door open.
If you are unfortunate and get locked out please do not attempt to climb through windows or
break down doors. The cleaner, owner, and Diane have spares. So please get in touch with
one someone via a helpful neighbour or mobile phone.
Note if this happens and the closest key holder to you cannot be reached we will send a
spare key to you in a taxi from Chania and you will be responsible to pay the taxi driver.

Page 10

GREEK LANGUAGE

English is spoken quite a bit in most parts of Crete. It is mandatory in schools so most young
people know a bit of English, just the older generation may not be so fluent. A few Greek
words are not only useful but the locals appreciate it if you make the effort despite if there
English is good!

GREETINGS FOOD

Hello Yasas (Yasu- Informal) breakfast pro-ee-no

Goodbye Adeeo lunch mesimeriano

Good morning Kalimera dinner vradino

Good evening Kalispera beef vodhino

Good night Kalinihta bread psomee

Please / Thank you Parakalo / Efharisto beer bee-ra

Yes / No Nay / Ohi cheese tee-ri

Excuse me Signomi chicken kotopoulo

You're Welcome Parakalo lamb arn-ee

How are you? Ti kanete? Water nero

Ti kanees? (informal) wine krasi

I’m well, thanks. Kala efharisto I’m a vegetarian eemay hortofaghos

ESSENTIALS NUMBERS
Do you speak English?
I don't understand Milatay Anglika ? 1- Ena 6-Eksee
I don't speak Greek
How much is this? Then katalaveno 2-Theeo 7-Efta
Where is the toilet?
When / Where / How Then milao Elinika. 3-Treea 8-Okto

Poso kanee afto? 4-Tessera 9-Enya

Pou eenay ee touoyletta ? 5-Penday 10-Theka

Potay/ Pou / Pos

SMALL TALK

What’s your name? Pos sas lene
Ekthes/Seemera/Avreeo
Yesterday / Today / Tomorrow Tonight/ Now
Up / Down
My name is Me lene Big / Small Apopse/Tora
Good / Bad Epano / Kato
Where are you from?Apo pou iste? Cheap / Expensive Megalo / Mikro
Hot / Cold Kalos / Kakos
I’m from eemay apo Here / There Ftheenos/ Akrivos
Early / Late Zestos / Krios
England tin anglia Easy / Difficult Etho/Ekee
Beautiful Noris / Arga
Scotland ti skotia Efkolo / Thiskolo
Oraya
Australia tin afstralia

Ireland tin irlandhia

America tin ameriki

Germany tin Germania

Finland tin Filandia

France tin Galia

DIRECTIONS HEALTH
Straight ahead
Left eftheea I need a doctor hriazome yiatro
Right Aristera
Behind dexia I want something for…thelo kati ya
Far piso
Near makria Diarrhoera dhiaria
Opposite konda
apenandi Insect bites tsimbimata apo endoma

Travel sickness naftia taxidiou

Pharmacy Farmakia

aspirin aspirini

Page 11

AIR CONDITIONING

HOW TO USE IT
All air conditions can be used to heat or cool a room. Each unit has a remote control. If there
isn’t a remote control, than more than likely you are in a property that you have to pay locally
for it to be turned on (as specified in the description of the property, so see the Property
Manual about how to get it turned on if you would like it.)

Usually the remotes are set at the appropriate mode but to ensure just take a look at the
remote to see if the ‘mode’ is correct. (see the icons below to help make sure you have
correct setting)
If all doors/windows are closed, when the air conditioner is in use, (some properties have
traps on the doors so if the door or window is open the air con will not work).

REMOTE CONTROL
In general the unit is set at the necessary temperature required from the previous guests or by
the owner, and it is just a matter of pushing the ON/OFF button.
It usually takes a few minutes before any air will start to blow out of the vents, so just be patient.
The MODE button tells you of the setting that it is on.

☼ Sunshine symbol means that you have it set on HEAT.
The snowflake symbol is the COOL setting.
FAN setting means that it will just circulate the air in the room, at
room temperature, neither hot nor cold air.

The SWING button will make the vents move and the air circulates in the room regardless of
what mode you are in. You can also use the ‘sleep’ mode to quieten the machine at night.

LET’S BE GREEN AND ECONOMICAL!

Air conditioning units are very demanding of electricity (in Crete there are more power cuts on
hot days!). Whilst we do appreciate that you will have paid for it, we would ask, for everyone's
benefit that you take the following precautions:

• Temperature gauge in Celsius should be set between 20˚-22˚ in summer if you put it any
lower, your room will become like and icebox and you will need a quilt to sleep. In
winter a good setting is no more than 24˚ or it won’t stop to run.

• Please keep ALL DOORS AND WINDOWS SHUT when the air conditioning is in use,
otherwise the unit will just keep working non-stop and waste electricity.

• Please do not leave the unit on when you are NOT in the accommodation. It only takes
about a ½ an hour to get the property to the temperature required.

• There are only a few times during the summer months when there is a heat wave where
temperatures soar in the 30’s, but other than those times we advise that you do not leave
the a/c units on overnight. One, it is a waste of energy and two it isn’t a very healthy
environment to sleep with the a/c on. Cretan evening breezes are a better way to cool
down. Just open the windows and shut the shutters if you have them. Make sure you have
the anti-mosquito machine plugged in with the tablet. And you will find that the
temperature is quite reasonable.

Page 12



CHANIA TOWN - MEDICAL SERVICES GP
Dr. Ktistaki
B PAEDIATRICIAN
Dr Zacharaki CHEMIST

Free Parking KAPAKIS
CLINIC

DENTIST
Dr Bob Manousakis

PAPATZANAKI
EYE DOCTOR

GP
Dr Lilikakis

Market

ONE WAY KIDONIAS

SHELL KARAISKAKIMARKOU BOTSARI
PETROL SFAKIANAKI

Page 14 NIK SKOULA

Borbone Cafe CHEMIST GAVRILAKIS Entering 24 HOUR DENTIST
Chania after PARKING Dr Kotsoglou
CLINIC taking exit off Apollon
Nat. Highway at
(IASON) Hospital exit

gray building on corner

HEALTH PRECAUTIONS

The main health hazard in Crete is overexposure to the sun so wear a hat and sunglasses
during the summer months and use a high-factor suntan lotion, especially for the first couple of
days or so. See the Beaches page for more sun tanning tips.

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to avoid any danger of dehydration. Water on
Crete is safe to drink, but if you are prone to stomach upsets then use the bottled
water.

Mosquitoes are easily dealt with by burning pyrethrum insect coils or one of the
electric insect deterrents which are widely available in mini markets. If you are
bitten you can get creams & sprays to help with the itching and possible infections.

FIRST AID TIPS

JELLYFISH STING
Urine, ammonia or “Waspeze”

SEA URCHIN SPIKES
Spread toothpaste in a thin layer over the area and this will draw the spikes out.
Please consult a doctor as the spikes do need to come out.

WASP STING
Vinegar or ammonia or “Waspeze”

SEVERE SUNBURN
Spread cold plain yogurt over the affected area. Leave until burning subsides.
Apply plenty of moisturizing cream.

SUNSTROKE
Put a cold wet towel on the back of the neck & all your pulse points, lie in a
cool dark room and drink lots of liquid. A soft drink with a teaspoon of salt and
sugar is an excellent tonic, or buy rehydration salts from the chemist. Avoid all
alcoholic drinks.

STOMACH UPSETS
Greek coffee with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Rice in its own liquid with lots of lemon juice.
Camomile tea.

PRICKLY HEAT
Do not cover up the area. Let it breathe. Clean the area with astringent. ie vinegar, aftershave
or face tonic and stay in the shade

Please note that these are only suggestions. Professional advice should
always be sought.

Page 15

SWIMMING POOL RULES

For many people and especially children, the swimming pool is a major attraction and a very
important part of their holiday. In the circumstances we would ask you to follow these simple
rules to ensure everyone’s safety.

YOUR POOL IS NOT ATTENDED BY A LIFEGUARD

Parents please ensure to watch your children.
Never leave children unattended in or near the swimming
pool, even for a moment. Don’t leave them in a flotation
device or under the supervision of another young child.
Stay within an arm’s length of touching your children at all
times.

When supervising children in a swimming pool, don’t allow
yourself to be distracted by conversation or other activities.
Keep your attention on them at all times.

See the depth markings on the pools edge before entering
a pool. Enter a swimming pool feet first. Absolutely no
diving is allowed for obvious dangers.

Never run around near the pool. Do not push others into the
pool or jump on others in the pool.
Wet feet on any tiled floors is extremely dangerous!

Do not swim alone.

Page 16

SWIMMING POOL ADVICE

POOL MAINTAINENANCE
The pool automatically filtrates throughout the course of the day at
various times set by a timer. The lights are also on a timer.
The pools are maintained by the owners or staff & they will have to
access the pool area to maintain it. They regulate the chemical balance
to keep the pool free from bacteria and algae. A leaf net is provided to
allow you to remove any leaves or dead insects floating in the pool. Plus
it is really helpful if you keep the grates free by clearing them of debris in between the
maintenance. It will help the pool filter better.

THE DON’TS
It is important to take special care to do nothing which might upset this chemical balance as
pools can lose their sparkle and become misty very quickly, especially in the heat of high
season when evaporation levels are highest.
Do not lather up with suntan oil & then jump straight away in the pool, the oil will remain in the
pool & it forms an ugly scum on the sides. Rinse off the excess oil before going in.
If coming from the beach, rinse off sand before going into the pool.

Keeping the pool free of debris helps with the chemical balance, keeps the filter working
efficiently and of course makes it much more pleasant to use.

LET US KNOW
If you suspect that filter system appears to have failed due to an electric or water cut or any
cloudiness in your pool or you can’t see the bottom, please notify our agents so that the
problem can be swiftly rectified. The quicker you report it, the faster we can fix it.

The following are a few common sense safety rules to remember...

Avoid swimming for at least an hour after eating a substantial meal.

We also recommend that you take a shower after swimming to remove any
remaining chlorinated water from your hair and body.

Do not use or have glass dishes near the pool.

Do not use the pool if you have been drinking.

Avoid swimming after dark.

Use the bathroom & not the pool.

Swimming and Ears: During the height of the summer ear infections can easily occur.
Experience has taught us that the cause is often due to constant swimming underwater and
then allowing yours ears to dry naturally in the sun. This problem can often be avoided by
ensuring that ears are thoroughly dried after swimming underwater. It is also advisable to
avoid swimming too deep as the pressure of the water can aggravate the condition and cause
painful earache afterwards.

Page 17

GENERAL FACILITIES

(Refer to Map C)

BANKS

All banks are open Monday - Thursday 08.00 - 14.30 & Fridays 08.00 – 14.00.
Saturdays all banks are closed. Most hotels and some car rental offices do change
foreign currency usually at a slightly higher rate.

To get cash with a credit or debit card there are ATM machines outside most banks but you
will need your pin number. If you do not know your pin, you will have to go into the bank and they
will debit your card for the cash. The ‘Property Manual’ has the location of the nearest bank or
ATM to your property.

POST

There are Post Offices in Chania and most of the main villages. However the quickest way to
send postcards is to buy stamps from the mini-markets and kiosks then post in one of the yellow
post boxes. Stamps for Europe and the USA are €0.75. Mini-markets sometimes charge a few
cents more & can tell you where the nearest post box is located.

LOCAL TELEPHONES

You can buy a phone card from most kiosks. One card costs €5 which gives you 100 units. Just
put the card in and press 'i' for instructions in English and dial your international call (Dial 0044 for
UK and remove the 0 on your area code) and watch your units being eaten away. These cards
can be used for local calls too which use only a few units. For lengthy long distance calls you can
purchase calling cards to use from any touchtone phones. Available in 5€ 10€ & 20€ from kiosks,
some newsagents and mini-markets. Cards such as Face, Smile and Netlink will give you
approx. 160 mins for 5€.

E-MAIL/INTERNET / WIFI

There are internet cafes in Chania, Kalives, Almerida, Vrisses, Platanias and
Paleochora. Most shops/cafes & even tavernas offer free wifi, you just have to look
for the signs or just ask the waiter for the code.

Most internet cafes are open normal shop hours but some are open late into the evening.

MOBILE PHONES IN CRETE

When using your mobile from abroad, you roam between networks depending upon the
frequency and your location on Crete. Cosmote, Wind and Vodafone are the three Greek
networks. Follow the instructions below when placing a call from your mobile phone:

• a UK number (mobile or landline)- dial : (0044(country code)+ area code(without the
zero) + number).

• a Greek mobile phone is a 10 digit number starting with 69.
• a local number in Crete dial : 0030 (country code) + area code + the number.

All numbers (mobile or landlines) in Greece are 10 digit numbers. Please note that when

phoning from a Greek phone, you must dial all 10 numbers but obviously NOT the country

code. Page 18

C CHANIA TOWN - GENERAL FACILITIES LEATHER LANE

ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM

STREET MARKET NAVAL MUSEUM TOURIST INFORMATION ANEK
(THURS) – FERRY
If is isn’t here it is FREE PARKING STREET MARKET TICKET
on Monis Gonias St FOLKLORE (SAT) –if it isn’t here it is behind OFFICE
MUSEUM Town hall/Courthouse

NEWSTAND AGORA (COVERED MARKET)
BANK
MINOOS
TAXI

Market

1866

POST OFFICE

KIDONIAS

SFAKIANAKI KARAISKAKI
ZIMVRAKAKIDON

MARKOY BOTSARI

SOLOMOU

Page 19 FISH STREET QUICK 24 Hour TELEPHONE
BANK MARKET FILM Parking BUTCHER OFFICE O.T.E
LAUNDERETTE TAXIS Apollon (Yiannis)
(WED) TOWN HALL&
COURTHOUSE
KTEL MAIN KALAMAKI POST
BUS STATION BUS STOP OFFICE
BANK

SHOPPING

(Refer to Map C)

THE COVERED MARKET –“THE
AGORA”- Chania Town
The highlight of going into Chania for the day
is to go to the AGORA (Covered Market) in
the centre. Although this was ‘the’ place to get
fish & meat before the days of the
supermarket- it is now still patronized by
locals in Chania as well as the addition of a
few more souvenir shops. Fresh fish
(available only in the morning), meats,
vegetables and other local goodies can be
found here. You won't be able to bypass the
Gymithakis Bakery located in the north wing, third shop on the left, as the aroma of fresh bread is
irresistible. Also there are selections of Cretan herbs and spices and locally produced thyme
scented honey. There are a couple of eateries where you can actually see what is in the window
(very reasonably priced), a great place to people watch.

Agora hours: Mon-Sat 7.30am-2pm and Tues & Fri 5.30pm-8pm.

If you're up early in the morning and ready for some hustle and bustle,
head down to one of the STREET MARKETS in Chania located on Akti
Kanari Str on Thursdays or behind the courthouse on Saturdays & just off
Markou Botsari on Wednesdays. You can find almost every kind of fruit
and vegetable depending on the season, as well as cheeses and meats.
There are other goodies such as shoes, clothes, carpets and buckets
too!
Market hours: 7am-2pm. The earlier the better choice you have.

Local food tips: Seasonal fruit and vegetable bargains can often be found on street stands
or on the back of trucks. Check out

Page 20

SOUVENIRS & HANDICRAFTS

There are plenty of goodies available; depending on how much you want to carry back home
and how much you want to spend!
Several souvenir shops are located in almost any town nowadays and usually have a wide
range of items such as:-Ceramics, leather goods, jewelery, sponges, t-shirts, embroidery,
icons, spices, rugs and the list continues. Haggling is not especially encouraged but
discounts are often offered on larger purchases.

The North West coast of Crete is traditionally famous for leather goods. It is best to find a
shop that sells strictly leather goods for the best selection and sometimes the better prices.
An example of this can be found in Chania at ‘Leather Lane’ located on Skridlof Street, just
off the ‘Agora’ fish exit (West exit). All kinds of leather goods are sold here, you could even
get a pair of Cretan boots ‘custom’ made!

Most tourist shops have a range of ceramics but it is best to
look out for the shops that have their workshop on the
premises. The village of Margarites, inland from Rethymnon, is
also a well-known pottery village.

Hand-made gold and silver jewelry is definitely eye catching
and the range of items is enormous. If you are the serious
buyer and are looking for that something special you will be
amazed by the range and choice in most localities. Chania is
big on jewelry and apart from the conventional jewelers there are many ‘craftspeople’ making
original and unique pieces.

Crete is a very individual island and this is best reflected in the traditional designs and
embroideries of carpets, blankets and lace products. Of additional interest may be the silk
farm at Kalamitsi between Georgiopoli and Vamos.

Cretan wines (krasi) usually taste better when eating the local dishes,
especially the ‘village wines’ or ‘house wines’ (hee-ma) from the barrel.
You can order the wine in tavernas ½ liter- so if only one person wants
to drink you don’t end up with a huge bottle. It is much cheaper than the
bottled wines but you need to acquire the taste for it! The red, can be
very potent but the white is usually lighter, but definitely eat with the
wine!!

Raki or as the Cretans call it ‘Tsikoudia’ is a strong spirit made by distilling the crushed mash
after the wine juice has been pressed from the first grapes. Homemade tends to be best,
again this can be bought from the barrel but TRY IT FIRST as the arcane production process
tends to be variable. A great digestive though, when taken with something sweet.

The Small Industries Park (off the National Hwy- see Map 4a) has a couple of shops where
you can actually see them making the goods & you can buy from them as well.
Plus the Glassblowing Factory in Kokkino Horio is also worth a trip if you want to
see them making the products & you can buy from them locally.

SHOP HOURS:
Mon-Sat 9.00-14.00 & Tue- Thur & Fri evenings 18.00-21.00.The Souvenir
Shops are usually open all day until late in the evening.

Page 21

SHOPPING FOR FOOD

SUPERMARKETS (Refer to Map H)

Shown by the symbol on the maps
(INKA- CARREFOUR (Champion Marinopoulos)- AB- LIDL- HALKIADAKIS)

All the above mentioned names are large supermarkets are on the north coast & to
help you find nearest one to your property it is mentioned on the “Property
Manual” **If you need any special products gluten free or soya milk, this is
where you need to go to find them.
Opening hours for supermarkets:
Mon-Fri 8am-9pm & Sat 8am-8pm, Sunday is closed.

MINI MARKETS

Shown by the symbol in the map section
Most large villages and even some of the smaller villages have some sort of mini market for
basic necessities & is mentioned in the “Property Manual” for the nearest on to your
accommodation. In the more popular touristy areas they are very well stocked & usually cater
to the foreigners needs. In the hills and beyond where the population is mostly Cretan you will
find the minimarkets cater for that market and you won’t find foreign goods like tinned baked
beans on the shelves. Note that mini market prices are usually a little bit more expensive than
the supermarkets but know that you are supporting the local economy as they are run by
families. Opening hours are usually from 8am til late in the evening. If it is a small shop then it
may close for siesta 2-5pm.

FRESH MEAT

Large supermarkets usually have a butcher. But for the really good cuts of meat you should
go to a proper butcher, look at the property manual for the nearest one to you. Most large
villages have a butcher but one of the best is “Yiannis” in Greek Γιαννης, which is located in
the center of Chania very near the covered market – if you are not near Chania but are
planning a day trip in, it is worth a stop. (See Map C for location). He has a huge range of
meats and already prepared chicken or beef burgers, various souvlaki on a stick ready for
BBQ. It is a really busy butcher’s and on the weekends there is usually a small queue, which
also means he has fresh products. All prices are per kilo.

Language Tips when at the butchers:

Pork – Hee-rino Greek spelling ‘xοιρινό’

Pork Chop- Bri-zola Hee-rino

Beef- Mos-hari Greek spelling µοσχάρι – they may not be chopped into

pieces but you can ask them to chop it into chunks or if you want a

beef chop- then ask for a Mos-hari bri-zola.

If you would like ground beef (mince) you need to ask for it so they can

grind it in front of you. (Mince is called kee-mά- with the accent on the

‘a’).

Lamb- Ar-ni Greek spelling αρνί

Lamb chops – Pa-ee-dakia – The lamb will be in near whole form, so if you want chops you

got to tell them. If you want a leg of lamb you need to ask for ‘to bou-ti’.

Chicken- Ko-to-pou-lo - Greek spelling Κοτόπουλο

Chicken is usually found whole- but the butcher chops it up – usually if you tell him you want

to put it in the oven (sto four-no) they know how to chop it for you. If you want a half of

chicken ask for –me-so. Some butchers may not sell half chickens, just need to ask & they

will tell you.If you want any meat for the BBQ- then tell them –sto kar-vou-no –which means

on the coals, they can then cut it for that purpose. Page 22

SHOPPING FOR FOOD

FISH

Shown by this symbol in the map section.

Fresh fish is sold in the covered market in Chania (Agora) and there are
a couple of fish shops on 1866 sq in Chania town.(See Map C) There
are fish shops in Souda (see Map 4a) & in Kolymbari (see Map 36).
Some of the large supermarkets sometimes have a small section of fish
but they are usually from a fish farm. When buying fish it is sold by the
kilo- they will weigh it and that is the price you will pay per kilo. Usually if
you ask the shop they will clean the fish for you.
Not all the fish is local & usually there is a sign on it saying that it is from
a fish farm- but the price is usually cheaper too if it is farmed.

Shopping for fresh fish should be done in the morning before 12noon to
have a better selection available.
Knowing how to choose fresh fish or seafood is a vital skill for a seafood cook. Unless you
caught the fish yourself, you really have no way of knowing exactly how fresh it is. But buying
fresh fish is easy if you know what to look for. Here are tips on choosing fresh fish.
Look for bright, clear eyes. The eyes are the window to a truly fresh fish, for they fade
quickly into gray dullness. They should bulge a little. Dull-eyed fish may be safe to eat, but
they are past their prime.
Next look at the fish Does it shine? Does it look metallic or clean? Or has it dulled or has
discolored patches on it? If so, it is marginal.
Smell it. A fresh fish should not smell ‘fishy’, but should have the odor of the sea – such as a
fresh sea breeze. Under no circumstances should you buy a nasty smelling fish. Cooking
won’t improve it.
Look at the gills. They should be bright pink/red and wet, not slimy or dry. If the fish is old,
they will turn the color of faded brick.

VEGETABLES

Shown by the symbol in the map section.

The famous Greek Salad- horiatiki (tomato & cucumber) is at its best in the summer months.
Although many people think they taste better in Crete at any time of year! If you want to eat
like a Greek, you need to stick with cabbage & lettuce salads in spring lachano-marouli
salata (cabbage-lettuce salad). Or a lachano-carota salata (cabbage-carrot salad). Or a plain
marouli (lettuce) salata which will have spring onions & a dash of fresh dill.

Another healthy option & a real favourite with the locals is horta, or wild greens which if you
come in the winter and spring you will see women picking by the side of the road or in the
fields. In the summer months the type of horta to eat is vleeta which is wild
amaranth and has been eaten since ancient times. In the winter it’s
usually Stamnagathi or a variety of wild horta which can be any one of
a number of wild greens. Horta is usually a little bitter but is still
delicious. Wild greens are boiled and then served with olive oil and
lemon and are high in anti-oxidants as well as vitamins and minerals.
Sometimes they are served with a boiled potato and/or courgettes.

Page 23

KOLYMBARI MALEME PLATANIAS AGIOS CHANIA CHANIA TOWN AGIOS MATHEOS &
IN.KA & Carrefour Co-op on IN.KA on square in APOSTOLIS IN.KA on left IN.KA & Carrefour KOUNOUPIDIANA
At junction & main road center of village IN.KA – Lidl entering from Map 9 Carrefour-
on coastal road Map 32 LIDL west of village AB West Halkiadakis
Map 36 Map 7 Map 1 Map C Map 5

KASTELLI SOUDA to CHANIA (old road)
Carrefour on Halkiadakis
main road Map 4a
Map 14
SOUDA RETHYMNO
AGIA MARINA IN.KA- Carrefour IN.KA- Carrefour-
IN.KA on main Map 4a Halkiadakis in center of
road Rethymno & on old
KALIVES road leaving towards
IN.KA Heraklion
Map 13
OMALOS/CHANIA
EXIT OFF NATIONAL VRYSSES
HIGHWAY IN.KA
towards Chania Map 11
IN.KA on left hand side
Map 1 MOURNIES/CHANIA EXIT
OFF NATIONAL
HIGHWAY take exit
towards Chania
Lidl – Carrefour after 1km
on either side of road.

H SUPERMARKETS SPILI
Larger minimarkets –
Opening Hours: well stocked as locals
Mon-Fri 08.00-21.00 shop in the village
Saturdays 08.00-20.00
Sunday Closed
Page 24

SHOPPING FOR FOOD

FRUIT

These days it is sometimes hard to know what fruit is actually in season due to the fact that a
lot of it is imported & stocked on our shelves in the supermarkets. So here is a guide as to
which fruits should be eaten when. Some fruits & vegetables are always on the shelves like a
range of apples, bananas, oranges, pears, tomatoes & cucumbers. But that doesn’t mean
that they are at their best. If you see a watermelon for sale in April- it has been shipped in
from Chile or Israel and there will be no taste to it & you will pay a very high price for a
tasteless fruit.

Fruits like bananas are always imported unless they are the tiny ones– then they are Cretan
bananas from the East of Crete. Usually only found in the street markets or at a fruit/veg
shops- large supermarkets do not have them.

NOV- APRIL- Apples- Oranges- Grapefruit- Mandarines- Pears–
these are winter fruits & best in the those months. There are two
different types of oranges Naval which have thick skins and peel
easily, these are eating oranges and best between Nov until May.
Then the Valencia oranges which are thin skinned and are great for
juice are harvested April til Sept/Oct.

MAY-JUNE –JULY- AUGUST- SEPTEMBER
Around May-June is when the apricots are in peak season, it is a short season and by the
middle of the summer they dwindle out and if you do find them, they are imported. The
beginning of June is when the cherries are really plump & dark red. There is a cherry festival
in Karanos yearly. The watermelons, melons, peaches & nectarines are also in their prime
around July- August and sometimes until September. Prices are lowest at this time.
Strawberries are great starting in May and lasting til July. If you buy peaches look for ones
with a creamy to gold under color that indicates ripeness. The amount of red on peaches
depends on the variety, it is not always a sign of ripeness. Look for fruit that has a well-
defined crease and a good fragrance. Unripe peaches have a green undercolour and will
never ripen. Valencia oranges are great for juice this time of year. Figs ripen from mid-August
through September and have to be tasted to be believed. You will find them at the street
markets & some supermarkets or off some tree you walk by in the countryside. Plums are
also coming out in August and September.

SEPTEMBER- OCTOBER
Figs- Grapes-Chestnuts
A variety of grapes are best in September whilst the month of October is the chestnut time.
Hence the chestnut festival in Elos is held at this time of year. The kiwis, quince &
pomegranates are also ripe in October. Throughout September the watermelon & melon are
still really good too.

FRESH BREAD

Shown by the symbol in the map section
One of the greatest foods in the Greek diet is the fresh bread that
accompanies all meals! The supermarkets usually carry a variety of breads &
minimarkets in villages will sell bread if there isn’t a baker in the village. If they
don’t have bread just ask them where to get it from as all the locals eat bread
with their midday meal. A trip to a proper baker should be experienced, especially in the
morning, there you can find all sorts of pies & usually a great variety of breads & paximadia
(dried bread rusks). A fresh loaf is about 0,90€ - 1,10€ which is usually a ½ kilo. Note that if
the baker is really popular you have to get there before 1pm or else there won’t be aPnaygele25ft.

CRETAN RECIPES

If you aren’t up to eating out every evening, here are a few simple starts that
don’t take too long to prepare, and you are still enjoying Cretan flavours.

TZATZIKI

Ingredients:

500g yogurt Put the yogurt in a medium sized bowl. In a second bowl, grate

1 sm cucumber the cucumber with the skin. Once grated, squeeze the pulp and

or ½ large get rid of excess juice. Add cucumber to the yogurt. Crush &

4-5 cloves of garlic add the garlic Add the remaining ingredients & mix well. It is

Salt & pepper best to let it in the fridge for a few hours so the flavours blend. If

1 tbsp vinegar you want it hotter add more garlic. Serves 6

2 tbsp olive oil

_________________________________________________________________________

DAKOS

Ingredients: Slice the tomatoes in half around the middle of the tomato.

2 large Rusks/ Paximadia Grate the inner part of the tomato (not the peel) & add some
2 ripe tomatoes
salt to taste. Put the rusks on a plate and pour the pulp of the
¼ cup mizithra cheese tomato on top of the rusks. Sprinkle with as much or as little
Olive oil
mizithra on top. Dribble a bit of olive oil & sprinkle some
Oregano
oregano on top. If you prefer your rusks to go soft, you can run
Salt the rusks under the tap. If you prefer to have crispy rusks, don’t

let them sit for too long once prepared.
________________________________________________________________________

SAGANAKI

Ingredients: Mix the egg, flour & water to make a batter. Coat the cheese
2 slices of Graviera cheese with the batter. Heat the olive oil in a small frying pan enough
(no thicker than ½ cm) to deep fry the cheese. When the oil is very hot add the
1 egg cheese and turn if over as it becomes golden brown. Sprinkle
2 tbsp flour with black pepper & if desired a squeeze of a lemon.
1 tbsp water

Olive oil_

___________________________________________________________

Ingredients: SHRIMP SAGANAKI
1 kilo Prawns
1 lemon- cut in half Boil the prawns for 5 mins in water with the lemon.
1 lg onion-finely chopped Drain & keep 400ml of the water. Peel them when they
2 sm green pepper -chopped cool down. Fry the onion in the oil until they are soft,
1 wine glass of white wine or then add the chopped pepper. Add the wine and let it
retsina cook for 2-3 mins., then add the chopped tomatoes,
1 tin of chopped tomatoes tomato paste and some of the prawn stock. Bring this
1 tbsp tomato paste to a boil and simmer for about 20mins, allow to
1 tsp dried oregano thicken. Add more stock if it is too thick. Then add the
200 g Feta Cheese- broken in peeled prawns and feta to taste- the cheese should
small pieces melt. The saganaki should be baked in the oven for 10
2 tbsp olive oil mins and topped with grated Edam cheese.
50g Edam cheese- grated Serves 4-6

Page 26

CRETAN PRODUCTS

OLIVE OIL
Olive oil is a necessity when doing any Cretan cooking; it is what makes the Cretan cuisine
so tasty. The virgin olive oil has a dark golden-green colour, a full taste and pleasant flavour.
It is used both in cooking main course meals and in sweets. Its’ consumption contributes to
maintaining good health. There are plenty of brands to choose from when selecting olive oil.

OLIVES
Below is an explanation of the three different ways that olives are processed to help
you choose what will suit your taste buds.
Green crushed olives (Tsakistes)
These olives have been washed and crushed with a flat stone, without breaking the pip.
Boiling water is poured over them and left to soak for ½ hour. They are drained and then
soaked in fresh water. The water is changed twice a day for 5-6 to draw out the bitterness.
They are then stored in lemon & salt brine for keeping.
Black salted olives (Pastes)
These are the tiny black olives which have been washed and then soaked in water for three
days. They are then drained and then layered in a straw basked with coarse salt on top of
each layer. They are shaken every 5-6 days so the olives are evenly salted. They are sold
with the salt on them, so you need to wash these olives before serving.
Pickled olives (Ksydates)
These are the big black olives. They are slit with a knife, soaked in water for 5-6 days then
vinegar for 1 day. They are then kept soaked in olive oil.

CRETAN CHEESE
Almost all of the cheese is made from either sheep or goat’s milk.
Anthotyros: Soft white cheese, low in fat & wonderful eaten plain.
Dried Anthotyros (Xeros): is eaten plain or grated over pasta. It can also
be cut in cubes and packed in olive oil making it ladotyri. This is a very
old process of preserving cheese, presumably originating in harsh times when refrigeration
facilities were not available.
Myzithra glykia or xynomyzithra (sweet or sour myzithra): A moist crumbly soft cheese eaten
with bread rusks (dakos) or on salads or used as filling in the kalitsounia (traditional cheese
pies)
Graviera: The hard cheese with holes, infamous to Crete. Eaten plain or with honey. It is also
fried in flour to make saganaki.
Kefalograviera: Made exactly like graviera, but it is aged more and has a lovely savoury
flavour.
Feta: The white hard salty cheese used mainly in salads or fried.

RUSKS- PAXIMADIA
Rusks originated years ago so that the shepherds who traveled far from their homes would
have some form of bread with them, as bread is also an essential part in the Cretan diet.
There are many varieties of rusks nowadays. The eftazima, horiatika, barley, wheat, rye,
sweet rusks and boukies (small bites)
The first class Cretan rusk is the Eftazima, which is made of chickpeas and wheaten flour,
salt, pepper, red pepper and bay leaves. It is bright yellow and comes in various sizes,
normally square.

Page 27



GREEK FOOD

Here are some examples of local dishes that you may come across when looking at a menu with
a rough idea of how they are prepared.

SALADS & STARTERS

Greek Salad: Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, green peppers, onions and feta

cheese topped with olive oil & oregano.

Cabbage Salad: Shredded cabbage & carrots with olive oil and vinegar.

Tuna Salad: Usually generous amounts of lettuce as the base, with sliced

tomatoes and chunks of tuna in a mayonnaise sauce.

Marouli: Shredded Greek lettuce with a sprinkling of fresh dill, fresh onions &

topped with vinegar & olive oil.

Tzatziki: Yoghurt, shredded cucumber and ground fresh garlic, all blended to

form a thick dip.

Skordialia: Garlic & boiled potato dip.

Taramosalata: A light pink dip made of cod's roe.

Augbergine Dip: Aubergines & yogurt.

Saganaki: Fried 'Graviera' cheese, best eaten when hot.

Dakos: Cretan rusk of bread with grated fresh tomato & topped with

mizithra cheese and olive oil.

Horta: Special wild greens boiled and sometimes accompanied with

boiled courgettes & potatoes.

Tyropitakia: Pastry stuffed with mizithra & anthotiro cheese.

Kalitsounia: Pastry stuffed with either horta or cheese or both.

Dolmahdes: Vine leaves stuffed with and rice.

Fried Mushrooms/

Fried Courgettes/

Fried Augbergines : All sliced, rolled in flour and deep fried.

Courgette Balls: Courgettes & cheese rolled up and pan fried in olive oil.

Fried Potatoes:/Chips: Fresh potatoes deep-fried in olive oil. You can tell if it is a good

taverna if the potatoes are fresh and not frozen.

Fasolia: White beans boiled with onions, grated tomato, celery, carrots & parsley.

Lentils: Slowly boiled and finished with garlic, onion and tomatoes.

Snails: Boiled or fried and sometimes topped with rosemary.

Apaki: Smoked pork which is then fried or grilled.

Meatballs: Fresh mince meat with parsley and oregano fried in olive oil.

GRILLED MEATS

The usual chicken, pork chops, and lamb chops are available at most tavernas,
and sometimes lamb cooked in the oven. Wild rabbit is also a rare dish & popular
here. Pork or chicken souvlaki are huge chunks of meet on a skewer.

Grilled beef burgers may be available too, but they are usually just two plain burgers, no buns!
Try the local sausages they are spicy and very tasty. Some traditional grill shops still serve
Koukouretsi – heart, lungs and liver chopped, wrapped in intestines and grilled, and if you are
really brave, you could try a grilled sheep’s head!

Page 29

GREEK FOOD

FISH

Shrimps: Usually you can order them deep-fried or boiled. Don't be too surprised if they are

served with the shells on. Some tavernas offer Shrimp (gavrides) saganaki,

shrimps served in feta cheese and tomato sauce…..

Octopus: Grilled or boiled; the latter seems to be the favoured way to prepare them. Try

them with lemon juice or vinegar. Part of the tenderising process is hanging them

outside on a clothes line!

Kalamari: Squid is prepared in several ways; deep-fried, boiled or you may find it cooked in a

tomato sauce with potatoes.

Soupia: Cuttlefish is another favourite, grilled or boiled. Best with lemon juice and

olive oil.

Marithes: Small deep-fried whitebait.

Ksifias: Swordfish; the best place to have it is at the recommended AKROYIALI

taverna. They grill it with sliced tomatoes and green peppers and serve it with

chopped onions, olive oil and a dash of parsley on top. It literally melts in your

mouth!

Barbounia: Freshly caught red mullet; portions priced per kilo, grilled or fried.

Sea Urchins: The eggs of the urchins, bit of olive oil and lemon sprinkled on top.

Kakavia: Fish Soup. A large bowl of broth from the boiled ingredients, as well as a plate

of vegetables & fish on the side.

GREEK SPECIALTIES

Moussaka: Layers of aubergine, minced meat, potato with bechamel sauce.

Boureki: This Cretan dish is prepared with layers of courgettes,

potatoes, mizithra cheese & fresh mint, topped with flaky pastry &

sesame seeds.

Papoutsakia: Literally ‘little shoes’, aubergines sliced in half, stuffed with minced meat in a

tomato sauce and topped with feta cheese and baked in the oven. Sometimes this

dish is served without meat for vegetarians.

Gemista: Stuffed tomatoes, green peppers and courgettes. Usually with rice and tomatoes,

but occasionally mixed with mince meat.

Stiffatho: Rabbit or beef, cooked slowly in a rich sauce of tomato, onion, cinnamon, orange

peel and laurel.

DESSERTS

Baklava: Layers of flaky pastry with finely chopped nuts, soaked in

honey.

Kadiefi: Shredded wheat soaked in a sugary syrup, filled with chopped nuts.

Glika tou

Koutaliou: Preserved fruits in a sugary syrup.

Galaktoboureko:Thick milk based cream in a flaky pasty which has been cooked then topped

with a light syrup.

Yoghurt and honey, ice creams and cheese pies with honey are also favourites.

Raki: The local spirit is usually given as a complementary drink with the bill. It is best

to have only one for digestion.

Page 30

A1 CHANIA TOWN – TAVERNAS & CINEMAS Karnayio Kariatis

Free Parking Tamam

Ela Antigoni

Semiramis Apostolis I and 11 Thalassino
Moutoupaki
HARBOUR Ageri
(see Map 5)
Dino’s

The Well of

The Soul the Turk

Portes Kitchen

Pay OLD TOWN Attikon
Parking
Market Parking Outdoor Cinema
Kadouni
With Metre
Achilleas

One way KIDONIAS

ZIMVRAKAKIDONMARKOY BOTSARI SOLOMOU

Page 31 Tartoufos Eleftherias
Italian Square
Akroyiali The Ellinis 24 Hour (Court House)
Cinema Valet Kypos
Manos Parking Outdoor Cinema Capricioza
Apollon Pizza
Nikolas Agisti

(End of Selinou Str) see Map 1

CHANIA TOWN - TAVERNAS

(Refer to Map A1)

Dinos O/L Tel 28210 41865

A fish taverna with a variety of other main dishes available located right on the harbour front with

a great view of the boats. (OPEN ALL DAY)

Karnayio O /L Tel 28210 53366

Lovely location tucked in the corner with the Venetian arsenals next to it. Great selection of

food. A variety of starters, grilled meats, fish and special Greek dishes available. Only outside

seating so their season starts later and finishes earlier. (OPEN ALL DAY)

Tamam I/O Tel 28210 96080

Tucked behind the harbour front this converted Turkish bath has a very cozy atmosphere.

Inside seating as well as a few tables outside in the narrow alleyway. Good selection,

especially for vegetarians, and quite cheap. Go early because you may have to wait in line.

It opens at 8 pm. Closed on Sundays.

Ela O Tel 28210 74128
A varied menu is available in a very atmospheric setting in the ruins at the top of Kondilaki Street.

Semiramis I/O Tel 28210 98650

Located in an alleyway off the harbour, offering a great range of Cretan dishes in a super

atmosphere. On Fri-Sat-Sun live music and dancers perform at no extra cost (during the

height of the summer). Try the potatoes in the ceramic dish with cheese sauce!

Portes O Tel 28210 76261

Located in an alleyway just behind the harbour. The friendly owner, Suzanna, is Irish and

married to a Greek. Good menu with specials to reflect what is available at very good value.

Great reviews from previous guests.

Moutoupaki Taverna O Tel 28210 94196

A typical taverna with a good location in a quiet back street of Chania. Great to go there if the

wind is up on the harbour front.

The Well of the Turk I/O Tel 28210 54547

The wide variety of excellent cuisine is mainly Turkish. On Friday and Saturday evenings a 3-

piece band plays Arabic music which really takes you away for the evening. The music usually

starts at 10 pm. Accessible by foot only. To find it pass the minaret, which will be on your left.

Look out for the Deaf Centre sign and follow them along the alleyway until you arrive at the Deaf

Centre, which will be on your left. Go to the right and the taverna is just across the square.

Open every day except Tuesdays. Opens at 7:30pm.

Achilleas Taverna I/O Tel 28210 71171

At the far side of Nea Hora beach, open day & night with a wide selection of fish & grilled meats.

Locals eat fish here so there is always a buzzing atmosphere, especially on the weekend

evenings.

I = Indoor seating =Live music Page 32
C = Children’s play area O = Outdoor seating
L = Lunchtime service

CHANIA TOWN -TAVERNAS

(Refer to Map A1)
The Soul Kitchen
Just opened this spring, modern ‘in’ sort of place, huge juicy burgers, tasty salads. Owned by the
the best butcher in town, so all meats are fresh. In the happening part of town.

Apostolis I & Apostolis II O/L Tel 28210 41767

Both serve a wide variety of fish and have a splendid view of the boats in the harbour.

Thalassino Ageri /Sea Breeze O Tel 28210 51136

One of the most picturesque and best fish tavernas in the town, located in the tannery area
next to the seaside. Open from March to October.

Kariatis Italian Restaurant I/O Tel 28210 55600

This place shouldn't be missed if you love pasta or pizzas, which is their main menu.
Fantastic sauces and huge pizzas. Other dishes are available - filet in blue cheese sauce.
Oven baked crepes and traditional cooking from an Italian wood-fired oven!. Located behind
the customs in the harbour. Run by an Anglo-Greek couple who give you a warm welcome.

Antigoni L/O/I Tel. 28210 45236

Located right on the harbour’s edge, with a beautiful view. A large selection of fresh fish and
in particular the fish soup (kakavia). Salads and traditional dishes are also served.

Kandouni O/I Tel. 28210 79582

On a small side street- location isn’t anything to write home about, but the food is super. Run
by two brothers, one is on the grill, he takes the meat from his huge fridge, chops it up right
there & then throws it on the grill. The tastiest chicken breast, pork chop, lamb chops or
sausages you will taste! Fresh salad- staka (hot goat cheese fondue) all delicious and very
reasonable. House wine is good too- Closed Sundays.

Agisti L/O/I Tel. 28210 72413

Right on the Nea Chora beach front, this taverna has a huge selection of ‘Cretan dishes’
ready for 2-3pm plus a wide variety of fish & other grilled meats. Open all year round.

Manos Taverna I/O Tel. 28210

Located on the picturesque harbour of Nea Chora (just 10mins walk from Chania town).

Fantastic food, & very reasonable. Becareful not to order too much as the portions are just

enormous. Locals love this place as you can sit next to the fishing boats or on the streetside.

Meat dishes & fish dishes as well as loads of appetizers. Highly recommended! Good house

white wine too. You may have to wait for a table if you eat on Greek time. Great sunset

location & then stroll to the harbour afterwards.

Nikolas Taverna L/O/I Tel.

Right on the end of Selinou Str on the far side west side of Chania. Parking right opposite, it

is close to the road, but it has very good fish, kalamari, octopus & very popular with the

locals. Open all year round.

I = Indoor seating =Live music Page 33
C = Children’s play area O = Outdoor seating
L = Lunchtime service

•AFRATA

Map 14 Map 10 Map 36 ITALIANA MELTEMI Map 13
•THE CELLAR •WAVE ON THE •ARGENTINA’S KOSMAS •PEPPERIA
•PAPADAKI ROCK •PALIO ARHONTIKO • ZORBA’S Map 19
•PICCADILY •MYLOS •EAST of EDEN • PROVLITA •LAGOS
EDEN JAZZ • KRITIKO • PSAROS
•AIDONISSOS
Kaliviani Village OVGORO Patsos Village
•TAVERNA ELPIS •DRIMOS TAVERNA
GRAMBOUSA DON
ROSSARIO Map 18 Spili Village
Nopigia •TA DOULIANA •WALNUT TREE
•MARIA & COSTAS
•ROTONDA Stalos Marathi MARATHI Map 24
• AROSMARI
Map 21 Kalathanes Therisso Almerida Map 37 • MONICA’S
•SFINARI Milia Zourva Gavalohori •TO ALSOS TOU VAMOU
BEACH LITSARDA •BLOUMOSIFI
Douliana

Kefali PARADISOS

Vrisses

Maza

•MILIA

Lappa

Map 39 Map 22 Map 6
•Deliana •Paleochora
•LEVENTES AMALIA Frangokastello
•MARKOS
•MARIA’S Map 16 PSICHRO MAZA MARIA
•OASIS MESKLA PIGADI
•KYMATOGI Agia Paraskevi

DIONYSSOS Ligres
Beach

O Kipos Tis •AMETHYSTOS Map 26 KOURTSA
Frosinis in
Neriana EAGLE’S NEST in Map 33
village PEGASUS
Samonas Village YIANNIS
Page 34 TRIOPETRA
2 RECOMMENDED Map 27 Map 34 Map 33
AG. FOTINI •LIGRES VOTAMOS Taverna
Armeni Village BEACH ZAROS by the lake
TAVERNAS DROSOSTALIA •MARIA’S

RECOMMENDED TAVERNAS

(Refer to Map 2)

STALOS

Maria’s Stavrodromi I/O/L Tel 28210 68888

(7 km west of Chania): This family owned taverna offers a wide range of authentic dishes as

well as such standbys as pizzas; in addition the portions are usually very generous. Situated

just off the coastal road on the corner at the Upper Stalos turning. They also have a delivery

service. Portions are huge & everything comes with chips so be warned when ordering!!!!

Kymatogi O Tel 28210 60996

Lovely location, right on the beach so you can either go during the day from the beach, or in

the evening & listen to the waves. Very good selection of food & always a special of the day.

Very relaxed environment.

Amethistos I/O Tel 28210 68758

(7 km west of Chania): Family run taverna – opposite Rouladina. We have had very good

reports from clients who have stayed at Rouladina & the family who run it are very

welcoming. Good food & after many comments from Rouladina clients we have decided to

add it to the list.

PANO STALOS

Markos I/O Tel 28210 68145

(7.5km west of Chania): On the road to Upper Stalos, it is on the right approx. 500m from the

coast road. The food is all home cooked, but there isn't a menu as such - you are invited into

the kitchen to make your selection. They also serve a memorable house red, which many

may remember the next day!

Leventes I/O Tel 28210 68155

(8 km west of Chania): A family-run taverna with 'Mum' in the kitchen with some help and the

boys serving has the advantage of the real home-cooking taste. Traditional dishes served

and a range of imaginative recipes. Located in the village of Upper Stalos it is the first taverna

on your left as you climb the hill. They have received many awards for their cooking & use

only olive oil.

DARATSO

Nikos O Tel

Situated on the small square of Upper Daratso, you won’t be here for the view- but just for the

food & the ambiance of the local atmosphere. Grilled meats – Greek casserole dishes & of

course all the variety of appetizers. Superb food & is run by a very nice woman. Good

portions & probably one of the best places to have your favourite Greek food. (See Map 1 for

specific location).

Page 35

RECOMMENDED TAVERNAS

(Refer to Map 2)

AGIA MARINA

Italiana O/I Tel 28210 60621

(10 km west of Chania): The taverna is situated on Agia Marina beach. They serve Greek

specialties as well as pizzas, pasta dishes & great salads. Homemade pizzas are cooked in a

proper pizza oven.

Open 10am-12pm daily.

Meltemi I/O Tel 28210 68993

On the coast road but on the beach side of the road with a great view of the sea. Extensive

menu both Greek & International so can please all tastes. Lovely bamboo structure &

comfortable chairs. Lovely place to hear the sea while you eat.

GERANI

Aiodonissos I//O Tel 28210 83560

Located in the centre of Gerani and open every evening from May and Sunday lunchtimes.

This family-run restaurant is known for its excellent contemporary cuisine and homemade

desserts.

NERIANA (near Voukoulies)

O Kipos Tis Frosinis I//O Tel 28210 83560

Translated “Frosini’s Garden”- a very relaxed place out in the country & most things are

organic from the garden, cooked on gas or grill (no electric), great place for kids as they may

bring out the pony or donkey in the afternoon. Simple food but very tasty. More than likely you

will be the only tourists, Georgos, Frosinis’ son, & his wife run the little tavern.

KOLYMBARI

Argentina’s I/O Tel 28240 41312

A very popular taverna at the weekend with the locals. Well known for fresh fish and seafood.

If you don’t like fish they have a wide variety of food on the menu. Good house wine too.

Palio Arhontiko
This taverna in Kolymbari has been recommended by previous guests, good variety of fish.

Mylos I/L/O

A very nice coffee shop which serves refreshments and a very good selection of

snacks. Situated on the harbour in Kolymbari looking out to sea. Serves delicious

apple pie and ice cream and plenty of it!!

KALATHANES

Rotonda I/O Tel

Superb little café/taverna serves everything fresh which has been picked from the garden.

Small menu but all very tasty as well as very reasonably priced. This is the taverna that has

different walks from it in the region. Views of the lush region from the terrace.

Page 36

RECOMMENDED TAVERNAS

(Refer to Map 2)

KALIVIANI

Taverna Grambousa I/O/L

This fantastic little secret if just off the square of Kaliviani – after the Kissamos port. Very

impressive traditional style atmosphere. They use old Cretan recipes dating back to the

1700’s & revive the authenic flavours based on the Cretan diet. The food is done in traditional

ovens & is quite the experience.

NOPIGIA

Sargos I/O Tel 28220 31077

Located on the seafront road in Nopigia, this is the place to go for 'fresh ' fish. There is a limited

selection of charcoaled meats depending on what was fresh at the market. The owner, Prokopi,

is quite happy for you to come into the kitchen and have a look at what's cookin' and choose.

Camping Mithimna I/O Tel 28220 31444

Located right on the beach just west of Nopigia. Good variety of dishes, great for a dip and
then lunch.

Harbour of Happiness
Located right on the east side of the beach. Wide selection of Cretan dishes and fresh fish.

KASTELLI – KISSAMOS

The Cellar / Taverna Papadaki / Taverna Piccadily/ Aretousa/ Pixida I/O/L

Previous guests have recommended all three of these tavernas. You'll find a mixture of BBQ

meats, fish, traditional starters and a wide selection of local wines.

SFINARI

Village of Sfinari I/O/L

A choice of three tavernas on the waterfront overlooking the pebbly beach. Good for fish,

seafood and local greens. Try the specialty: stuffed cuttlefish, Greek salad and cold retsina. It’s

the perfect setting. (OPEN ALL DAY) There are another two tavernas on the coast road as well.

MILIA

Village of Milia I/O/L

Driving up to Milia you will pass over spectacular scenery with breathtaking views. (Not

suitable for vertigo sufferers!) You will find Milia nestled in the heart of the woods. The

restaurant is built of stone and wood and most of the food they prepare with their own

produce and cooked in a wood oven. There isn’t a large selection of food, some starters and

a few main dishes of the day. All of which are delicious. A great place to get away from it all.

Ideal for nature lovers.(OPEN ALL DAY)

I = Indoor seating =Live music Page 37
C = Children’s play area O = Outdoor seating
L = Lunchtime service

RECOMMENDED TAVERNAS

(Refer to 'Map 2')

KALIVES

Pipperia –The Pepper I/L/O Tel. 28250 31245

Situated right on the beach west of Kalives town, look out for the sign with a green pepper on

it.Very popular with the locals so it can get very busy and service slows down, ususally on

Sunday lunchtime. Wide variety of dishes and superb for families with kids because of its

location, right on the beach.

Provlita I/O

Situated on the west side of Kalives on the sea front- great grilled meats & appetizers. Open

in the evenings. Apart from the main taverna, in summer there is a place right next to the sea

that is opposite.

Kritiko I/O/L Tel 28250 31363

Super location, right on the beach overlooking the sea. Lovely surroundings. Variety of Cretan

dishes & some interestingly different types to cook the lovely fresh Cretan foods.

Mistrali Beach/ Il Forno I/O/L

A choice of several tavernas postioned nicely on the beach. Some of them do have live music

and dancing a few nights a week, during peak season.

ALMIRIDA

Lagos Away from the main street in Almerida & tucked in the corner, this superb little taverna
has amazing food. It may not have the view like the seafront tavernas, but the food really
does make up for it. From fish, to appetizers to traditional dishes- they are all fantastic & good
house white wine too!

Seafront tavernas in Almerida I/O/L

Along the seafront there are several tavernas. On weekends and holidays they are very popular

with the local. Some of them specialize in fish but they do have other dishes as well. Françoise

Patisserie is there for coffee and desert afterwards or even for breakfast. They open at 8.30, if

you fancy a seaside start to your day.

GAVALOHORI

Arosmari
Amazing little taverna tucked off the main road, where the sq of the village used to be.
Limited menu, but all just incredibly good, moussaka is fantastic ! Lovely atmosphere with
tables on ledges around the large plane tree and the ruins surrounding with whitewashed
walls. They always serve fresh dishes & therefore they are limited & also meat on the grill.

Monica’s in the square I/O

Lovely family run taverna right in the centre village next to the monument. A variety of dishes

are available.

VAMOS

Bloumosifis &To Alsos tou Vamou & Marouvas O/L

Three very good tavernas in the village of Vamos all recommended by previous

clients & owners.

Page 38

RECOMMENDED TAVERNAS

(Refer to 'Map 2')

LITSARDA

Litsarda Pizzeria I Tel 28250 22302

In the tiny village of Litsarda, this family who had spent some years in America, came back to the

village and opened this pizzeria.First class pizza ovens & homemade crusts. Good value & if you

ring ahead they will tell you when to come to pick up the pizzas.

MEGALA CHORAFIA & STYLOS

There are several tavernas in both villages & they are usually have a limited menu, but fresh
pots of food daily or grilled meats & of course the appetizers.

ARMENI

Drosostalia I/O/L Tel 28250

Right next to the small river, this tavern prides itself on portions as well as taste. All meats &

vegetable dishes are fantastic. In the sleepy village of Armeni, you will not expect such lovely

food, a must to try on holiday- but suggest ‘family style’ as the portions are very large!

MALAXA

Ovgoro I Tel 28210 65095

(7 km south of Chania): (The name means ‘I see the horizon’) Enjoy the original Cretan cuisine

with panoramic views of Souda Bay & Chania. Recommended for its roasted and cooked meats,

pies, lamb chops, grilled country style sausages, all prepared with virgin olive oil. Plus a variety of
cheeses & staka. Open 1st June-30th Sept every evening. 1st Oct – 31st May open Thurs- Friday-

Sat & Sun. Plus Sat & Sun lunchtime. From Chania take the road towards Malaxa and it is before

the village on the left hand side.

KERAMIA

Psichro Pigadi (Cool well) O/I Tel 6977 445017 or

6946 118494

Open all year round. From Mournies or Keramia you reach the village of Thymia, follow the

sign that says Ag. Modesto & after approx. 6km. The most amazing views from 1600m high.

Stone building & verandas in a very peaceful surroundings. The food is simple again, meats,

salad, mountain greens, staka. An ideal place to escape the heat when it gets too much in the

summer or to watch for birds of prey.

VAFES

Kourtsa O Tel 28250 51201 or 6972 021791

Located in the village square of Vafes inland from Vrisses. A very traditional Cretan taverna,

offering specialties of the island. Open Fri/Sat evenings from Oct-May, and Sunday

lunchtime. From May-end Sept it is open every evening. The village is very interesting as

well, there is an old oil mill and from the village there is a walk to a small cave (follow the

signs in the village).

PLAKA

Elpis - Hope I/O Tel. 28250 31584

Located in the village square of Plaka in the area of Apokoronas this tavern offers a variety of

traditional Greek dishes, often with a touch of imagination from the chef/owner,and local wine.

Very popular with locals and ex-pats living in the area. During the summer months the

tables spill out onto the road. I = Indoor seating =Live music

C = Children’s play area L = Lunchtime service O = Outdoor seating Page 39

RECOMMENDED TAVERNAS

PALEOHORA

(Refer to the Paleochora Map 22)

Cape Crocodile Taverna No. 70 on Paleochora Map.

Located just below the Harbour Apts. Recommended by previous clients as one of best in town.

Has a variety of dishes not necessarily traditional but more of an international cuisine. Apparently

ribs & chicken wings are to die for!

Methexis No. 5 on Paleochora Map
Traditional Greek food, wonderful views, very popular

Aposperida No. 60 on Paleochora Map

On the left going out of Paleochora after No. 46, offering homemade traditional South

Western Cretan cooking. It is not expensive, friendly and has good wine.

Dionyssis No. 59 on Paleochora Map

Good family restaurant always busy, reasonable prices, wide choice of good food.

Christos No. 61 on Paleochora Map

Near the pebbly beach. Good fresh food here, with a friendly atmosphere. Clean kitchen and nice

wine. Previous guests say it has the best breakfast in town.

Galaxy No. 57 on Paleochora Map

On the pebbly beach street, it used to be next to the Post Office and has gone slightly up market,

so slightly more expensive. Excellent service, a clean kitchen, with fresh food daily.

Porto Fino No. 55 on Paleochora Map

Pasta dishes are the recommended item here, as well as their pizzas, good value and

excellent service. Located on the sea front.

The Third Eye No. 54 on Paleochora Map

Excellent for vegetarians with a wide range of Greek, European and Asian dishes. Located on

the street off the sandy beach.

Nicki’s Pizzeria No. 22 on Paleochora Map

Famous for her pizzas and macaroni dishes and now has a large open-air area at the back of the

restaurant.

O Pandelis No. 44 on Paleochora Map

Traditional Cretan food, good for trying out a variety of dishes. Good Value.

Odysseia Pizzeria No. 71 on Paleochora Map

Busy seafront restaurant with great pizzas, delicious pastas and good choice of salads.

Knossos Taverna No. 72 on Paleochora Map
Clean, friendly restaurant in the Main Street, with good fish

The Small Garden No. 66 on Paleochora Map

Run by a Dutch couple who have made a great reputation for food with Asian flavours

largely gained from their travels through Thailand, Indonesia, etc. Booking in advance

advisable.

Page 40

To AREA MAP
Rethymnon
Agia Paraskevi-
Kerames

Tavernas &
Minimarkets

(Not to scale)

Patsos
Drimos (∆ρυμο) Taverna
on the gorge of Agios
Antonis.Great food, lovely
atmosphere, just follow the
signs

Patsos

Mixourama Gerakari Fourfouras

Spili Drigies

Frati A couple of tavernas, Kissou Hordaki Ag
recommended ‘Walnut Kambos Ioannis
Asomatos Tree Taverna’ & Maria’s
& Costas both on main Agamemnon
To road.
Plakia Kentrohori Traditional little taverna,
Akoumia
Serves only what is fresh

Aktounda that day, great cheese

pies, spinach pies, beans

Vatos & raki! Lovely views

Drimiskos Ardaktos

Moni Kerames Ag Paraskevi Pegasus
Preveli Agalianos & Vrahos Breakfast,
snacks and main dishes.
Ammoudi Beach Both have pools for use
Dionyssos Taverna as long as you purchase
serves a wide something from them.
variety of dishes.
Plus a small Ag. Paraskevi
minimarket for
basics. Melambes

Agia Kato Saktouria
Fotini Saktouria
Good fresh fish
tavernak run by an Part dirt track
Greek/Australian
couple. Ligres Beach Triopetra Beach
Two tavernas 2 Tavernas with a
serving a wide wide variety of
variety of dishes grilled / oven
dishes
Agio Pavlos Agia Galini
3 Tavernas with a Spoilt for choice, quite
variety of dishes a touristy village with
many Ptaavger4n1as.

COFFEE

(Refer to Map A2)

One of the most picturesque places to sit and have a coffee or breakfast is on the Chania
harbour front. Watch the town come alive, and the locals go about their business. There are
plenty of places to choose from & almost all have a good view of the harbour.

If you are after a good cup of coffee plus a bit of ‘people watching’ then go opposite the
covered market (Agora) to ‘Gregory’s’. You can stay at ground floor level or go to the 1st or
2nd floor on the balcony and it gives a great view of the hustle & bustle of Chania town. They
serve all kinds of coffees, pies, sandwiches & ice cream.

For those of you who have little people with you, it is a must to take them to the Kypo- (park)
in the centre of Chania. There are a few wild Kri Kri goats & some geese plus a playground
area. A great place if they need to burn off some energy, while you sit back and enjoy a
break. The shop serves coffee, breakfast and pies & ice creams. The bathrooms are lovely
here too, so even if you don’t have little people with you it is a lovely park and good for a
break if you have been out shopping.

Greek Coffee (ellinikό café)- is similar to Turkish coffee and is very strong and
comes in a tiny cup, and whoever drinks it will no doubt make a slurping noise! The
grinds of the coffee settle to the bottom of the cup. It can be without sugar (skέto)
or with 1 sugar (metrio) or very sweet (gliko) but it doesn’t come with milk. It can be
made into a double (diplo). This is what the old men are usually drinking in the cafeneons.

The younger generation are usually having a cold coffee – frappe, which is instant Nescafe

whipped or shaken to create the froth served on ice.

How to order your frappe: Frappe Sketos - no sugar or mile

Frappe Metrio-1 sugar & 1 coffee Frappe Gliko - sweet, they will put 2-3 sugars

Frappe Metrio me gala- same as above but with milk. Frappe Gliko me gala- Sweet with milk

Sometimes in the more fancy coffee shops you can ask them to add a scoop of
vanilla ice cream instead of milk in the frappe. If you take a liking to this coffee they
are very easy to make at home. The trick is to mix the coffee & sugar with only a
very small amount of water at first and to shake it vigorously – this creates the froth.
Then add your ice cubes & milk and then fill the glass up with water.

Espresso, cappuccino, fredducinos and flavoured filter coffees are becoming available in the
more busier resorts & particular where the local folk hang out. If you are out in the sticks you
will probably be limited to the Elliniko or Frappe- Nescafe.

Page 42



A2 CHANIA TOWN – LIGHT LUNCHES - SNACKS Pagotomania- Homemade
Ice Cream –Wow flavours!
Papageorge Loukoumades
Ice cream Thraka
Free Parking Chill Box Oliver Souvlaki

Zaxari & Alati Frozen Yogurt

Creperie Roxani HARBOUR Gregory’s
Undergrou Creperie Café/Snack Bar

nd Parking Koum Kapi

Per Hour

Stamatakis OLD TOWN Oasis Meat Italian
Wood oven Souvlaki Box Job

Bakers

Market

One way KIDONIAS

ZIMVRAKAKIDONMARKOY BOTSARI SOLOMOU

Page 44 Eleftherias Roumeli
Everest Domino’s Bougatsa Square Grilled Meat
(Court House) Take Away
Patisserie for Fast Food Pizza Klimatsaki 24 Hour Ladi & Rigani
Café/Snacks Valet (Oil & Oregano) Kypos Café
Galaktoboureko Mikel Goody’s Parking
Coffee Shop Fast Food Gregory’s Apollon
Fast Food

TAKE AWAYS & LIGHT SNACKS

(Refer to Map A2)

Oasis
One of the oldest souvlaki shops in Chania. A tiny shop run by three brothers that only have
souvlaki and are open during normal shop hours. The souvlakia are with pita bread, pork,
tomato and onion, topped with yogurt. As long as they have been open, they have never
changed jobs! Renown to the locals as the place to go for a quick souvlaki midday- just signal
to the one that makes the souvlakia “2” and in a few minutes you are handed a souvlaki and
shortly after the second one. Small area for sitting, so usually everyone is just standing
around outside.

Thraka Souvakli or Ladi & Rigani (Oil & Oregano)
A great place to try out the souvlaki in a variety of ways, with
chicken or beef or pork. They also have kebabs and a whole lot
of other traditional Greek quick food.

Everest
They do a selection of pies, and you can create your own
baguette. Take away or eat in the shop. Great for late breakfast
or lunch. Open nearly 24 hours.

Gregory’s – Coffee Right
They do a selection of pies, and baguettes. Various rolls and
different kinds of pita breads. Salads are also available.
Take away or eat in the shop. Great for late breakfast or
lunch. Open nearly 24 hours. They do a great frozito (like a
milk shake but with coffee & chocolate or vanilla)

Roxani Creperie
Sweet or savoury crepes. No seating at all, only two table on the sidewalk. Huge crepes.
Open nearly 24 hours.

Sugar & Salt Creperie
Located on the outskirts of Chania, again serve crepes sweet or savory- very interesting
décor & bench seating outside. Easy to park as it is on the main road.

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TAKE AWAYS & LIGHT SNACKS

(Refer to Map A2)

Roumeli Grill
They do a selection of grilled meats, chicken, pork or lamb chops. Here you can also get a
variety plate (pikelia) which is enough for two. It has chips and a mixture of grilled meats.
They also do normal souvlaki. Which is the pita bread with either chicken or pork, chips,
tomato and onion, topped with yogurt or tzatzikis. Take away or eat in the shop. Open midday
til late at night.
Domino’s Pizza
Take out only- as they deliver only in Chania town. You can go into
the shop and order your pizza and it takes about 20 minutes to
prepare. Open 1pm-1am.
The Italian Job
Homemade pizzas sold by piece or taylor made full-sized. Plus
numerous pasta dishes.
Thraka
Souvlakis as well as proper Greek dishes sold to go or to eat in. Great location for watching
people midday! Open nearly 24 hours.

The Area of Koum Kapi
This is the seaside area east of the harbour. Rows and rows of cafeneons with a few
ouzeries, which serve ouzo, wine or beer. They serve meze platters with fish or meat. It
makes a change from having a proper three course meal. The atmosphere is buzzing and a
great area to people watch!

The Meat Box
New for 2015, homemade burgers & hot dogs with lots of trimmings. Good street food & good
value.

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Most Popular Attractions on Crete

• Walking the Samaria Gorge
• Elafonissi Beach
• Gramvousa/Balos Boat Trip
• Knossos Palace & Heraklion

Archaeological Museum

• Jeep Safari inland & passing
mountainous villages

• Walking around Chania Harbour/Town
• SUP & SUP yoga

If you have a car, you can do most of these Elafonissi Beach
things on your own, apart from walking the
gorge because you start at one point & end in another.

For further details about these attractions www.dianas-travel.com

Other suggestions:

Eating traditional Cretan food in a village taverna, take a look at the recommended tavernas
pages for ideas Amalias in Zourva or one of the several in Therisso village.If you don’t have
a car, you can experience this on the Jeep Safari Trip.

Sit by the sea & have a meal, if you have a car try Sfinari, Almerida or Ravdoucha villages. If
you don’t have a car in head to Chania & then on the town beach is Manos which is right by
the little harbour or the Thalassino Ageri which is east of Chania town. Just to hear the waves
& watch the sunset is magical.

If you don’t fancy driving all the way to Heraklion to see Knossos, but you would like to see a
bit of ruins, take a trip up to Aptera near Megala Chorafia. There is a Venetian fortress &
Roman ruins & a visit to the smaller Archaeological Museum in Chania town.

Samaria Gorge

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BEACHES

(Refer to Map 3)

Safety by the Sea

Please be careful when swimming, especially when the sea is rough as there may be strong
currents. Few beaches are supervised, but if the RED FLAG is flying, DON’T SWIM. if a
lifeguard isn’t present at the beach, use your common sense, if it looks rough, don’t swim!
Yellow flag- swim with caution and White flag – calm- no restrictions.

There really is a reason for not swimming after you eat and the reason is that your body is
using all its energy to digest the food in your stomach and it does so by taking energy from
other parts of your body that aren’t need it i.e. your limbs. Therefore, if you do try to swim
energetically after eating – your body hasn’t got time to prepare the limbs and disperse the
energy which means you will not have the strength to cope with strenuous exercise like
swimming. So be wise and swim before eating – relax, digest at least 2 hours and then swim.

Drink plenty of liquids- especially water to avoid dehydration and sunstroke. Also wearing a
hat is advised as well as sun cream.

Suntanning Tips

-Take your time. The longer it takes to tan the longer it will last.
-Use a high factor cream and reduce gradually.
-Avoid tanning during the hottest part of the day ie. Between 12.00 and
17.00.Apply creams as often as possible after swimming.
-Remember that even if cloudy UV rays still beam through to do damage.
-On a boat be very careful. Not only is the breeze deceiving but you also get the rays
bouncing off the water.
-After showering always use plenty of after-sun cream or moisturizer to replace the oils lost in
the skin.
-Avoid falling asleep in the sun, if you are feeling tired sit in the shade.

BEACHES

There are plenty of beaches which suit many different tastes. As you will see on Map 3 in the
Map Section there are secluded coves with few people, long sandy stretches of beach and of
course, the more populated ones that are packed with sunbeds and a great place for people
watching as well as tanning.
The beaches that are closer to Chania town tend to be very popular as they are
shallow, they are usually much calmer when the sea is a bit rough elsewhere,
plus they are easily accessible and have tavernas/cafeterias close at hand
which makes the day on the beach very comfortable but rather busy.

The pebbly beaches don’t attract the crowds and normally there is at least one taverna close
by with a few sunbeds. Be careful getting into the water as there usually are quite steep drops
quickly after you get in the water.

A word of advice about sunbeds & umbrella rentals. Usually someone will come to
collect money for the 2beds & 1 umbrella (going rate is €5-10 for the set).
Sometimes the sunbeds are with a taverna/cafebar so you may have to buy drinks
instead of paying for the bed. Each place is different.

BEACH ACTIVITIES Canoes & paddleboats are available on most sandy
beaches. Parasailing can be done at Agia Marina beach.

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