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CATEGORY:CHANIA | PLACES

A memorable spring excursion in Chania (part 1)

May 19, 2023

Photo from www.feriastravel.gr

 

Missing nature and the beauty of the great outdoors? Thought so. That’s why we wanted to take a moment to present you, our suggestions for an exciting spring excursion in Chania.

 

Crete’s former capital, and arguably most picturesque town, blends gorgeous landscapes, stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, emblematic sites and hidden gems. That’s why Chania is a yearlong wonderland, brimming with attractions no matter the weather. But if you’re wondering when it is the best time to visit, the answer would be most likely spring. With clear sunny skies, balmy temperatures (May average highs hover around 24°C ), and nature in full bloom, spring in Chania is wonderful – and there are no tourist hordes, which means you can enjoy the icons without having to beat the crowds at it. If you are planning an April, May or early June escapade in Greece’s largest island, read on for our handpicked suggestions for a spring excursion in Chania, that’ll linger long in the memory.

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CATEGORY:CRETE | PLACES

3 lesser-known historical sites in Crete

March 20, 2023

Photo from www.gtp.gr

Steeped in legend, the lesser-known historical sites in Crete have an authentic charm that fascinates in-the-know visitors as much as, if not more, than their more famous counterparts like Knossos and Phaistos.

With its signature mix of exotic beaches, rugged mountains and gripping landmarks, Crete is brimming with attractions. Perhaps the most famous of them all, the 4,000-year-old palace of Knossos receives an average of five thousand visitors in a day. This spectacularly (though somewhat speculatively) restored Minoan palatial complex captures the imagination of young and old with its sheer size, expressive frescoes and fascinating myths. But there are other, just as captivating, though lesser-known historical sites in Crete that beg for exploration – and the good thing is you won’t have to beat the crowds to it.

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CATEGORY:CHANIA | CRETE | MYTHOLOGY

Chania’s secret gems

January 23, 2023

Photo from www.beachsercher.com

 

Its iconic sights have travelled the world many times over be it in postcards, magazine covers and Instagram feeds. But there are other lesser-known sites that tempt the adventurer in you to venture just that little bit further. Whether from the sea or the land, on foot, by boat or by car, explore Chania’s secret gems and fall in love forever.

Surrounded by pristine countryside, with aeons of history inscribed in its every nook and cranny, Chania on the island of Crete, is a postcard-pretty amalgam of striking nature and Venetian, Arabic, Muslim and Jewish influences.

 

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CATEGORY:CRETE

Chania at Christmas 

December 21, 2022

Photo by congerdesign from Pixabay

Chania at Christmas is perhaps unexpectedly magical. This is a time of the year that has always been special, blending a wealth of enchanting, still-surviving customs and traditions with an array of fun-packed activities designed to lift everyone’s spirits.

This was the year the planet learned how to travel again. As we are looking at everything we did in 2022 – the pics and the vids that are adding up to millions of happy moments with old and new friends at the Oscar Suites & Village Hotel – we can’t help but be grateful for all the great memories: The food that we sampled, the trips that we took, the hikes that we went to, the wine that we tasted, the sights we admired, the beaches we built sand castles on, the music we danced to. We are also super excited about the upcoming holiday season. Though it is not your typical “Rovaniemi-esque” destination, Chania at Christmas is quite magical, as it blends a wealth of time-honoured traditions with an atmosphere that’s pure elation and joy.

 

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CATEGORY:CRETE | MYTHOLOGY

The most famous myths of Crete

November 18, 2022

Photo from www.smarthistory.org

 

Brimming with wonders, Crete’s epic land has been inspiring storytellers since the dawn of history. Colourful narratives about mighty kings and potent heroes, ferocious beasts and even the planet’s first robot were passed down by word of mouth across the generations – and through the skill of their orators became deep-seated legends that attempt to account for the origins of mankind and the workings of the world.

 

Crete’s oral traditions – a dramatic collection of age-old, richly-narrated tales of lust, betrayal, passion and treason – continue to fascinate young and old alike. So how about imbuing your upcoming holiday on our island with an extra sprinkling of magic? Read on for the most intriguing myths of Crete and get ready to delve into a bewitching realm of fantasy where everything seems possible.

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CATEGORY:CRETE

More fun and wild things you should know about Crete

October 31, 2022

Photo by Michael from Pixabay

 

Planning a trip to Greece’s largest island? Here are some interesting things you should know about Crete to make the most out of your visit – and to impress friends and family with your insider knowledge and insights.

 

On the southernmost corner of the European continent, due to its sheer size and favourable climatic conditions, Crete is like a mini-universe in its own right, with a highly diversified landscape, epic food, fascinating history and a wealth of charming traditions.

 

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CATEGORY:CRETE

5 +1 intriguing facts about Crete

September 26, 2022

Photo by ERROR_420 from Pixabay

 

Looking for some wanderlust inspiration? Here is our Oscar Suites & Village handpicked list of fun and intriguing facts about Crete, to whet your appetite for discoveries and explorations.

 

Stunning beaches, epic food, awe-inspiring monuments, gorgeous architecture, evocative music, age-old traditions, picturesque villages, proud locals and so much more…The list of Crete’s charms is endless really – that’s why this sunkissed island should be on every dedicated traveller’s bucket list. Whether you’re a solo visitor, a couple on your honeymoon, or on a holiday with your family and friends, Crete is one of the most fascinating places on the planet, with a wealth of hidden treasures, secret stories and behind-the-scenes attractions beckoning the explorer in you. These fun and intriguing facts about Crete, will fuel your wanderlust and inspire you to venture beyond the beaten path, delve deep into ancient mysteries or even become amateur naturalists or history buffs.

 

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CATEGORY:CRETE

History of Crete: Timeline

August 26, 2022

Image by Pat from Pixabay

 

A short look into the grand history of Crete

From Neolithic times to the present, post-covid era, the history of Crete has always been fascinating, tumultuous and teeming with legendary characters – fictional and real, alike. It’s also what has shaped the locals’ unique culture, folkways and norms – the sum of traits and characteristics that make for the distinct Cretan way of life; which in turn continues to enchant visitors from the four corners of the globe. Here’s a short, but comprehensive timeline of the history of Crete.

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