Ah, Crete! This island where the sun shines brighter, the water is bluer and the olives taste like little pieces of Greek heaven. But even in this paradise, there are some things you should avoid doing if you want your vacation to be as idyllic as possible. Here are 8 things not to do on the island of Crete, unless you want to become the hero of local anecdotes. We all love Crete, but there are a few things we should probably avoid doing there. Here are eight things not to do in Crete.
- Don’t try to be Icarus. We know that this is where, according to mythology, Icarus tried his wings. But believe me, renting a jet ski is a safer way to feel the wind in your hair.
- Don’t leave your towel on the beach at dawn. This is not a reservation of a place, it is simply an invitation for the local goats to have a new toy.
- Don’t assume that every goat is a cute Instagram pet. Some of them have more temperament than many Greek gods!
- Don’t ignore local customs. Remember that the afternoon siesta is a sacred time. If you think you can shop then, prepare to be met with a closed door and a confused look on your face!
- Don’t forget to pack appropriate footwear. Crete has beaches and mountains, so sandals aren’t the best choice for the mountains.
- Don’t try to say “moussaka” faster than five times in a row. This isn’t a local sport, and it could cause choking.
- Finally, don’t plan your day without some flexibility for Cretan time. Clocks tick differently here, so “in five minutes” can mean anything from “right now” to “maybe tomorrow”.
Just a heads-up: Crete is a pretty special place, full of charm, history and some pretty unforgettable views. Enjoy it, but do it with respect for local culture and nature. And remember that the best memories are the ones you make, not the ones you find in a guidebook.
Local life in Crete
The Cretan way of life is all about being close to nature and having strong social connections. Cretans are known for being really welcoming and open, and their everyday lives are deeply rooted in traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. In the small villages that dot the island, you can experience the true Cretan lifestyle, where everyone knows their neighbour and shared meals and celebrations are an important part of community life.
Fresh produce, a healthy Mediterranean diet and a mild climate contribute to the well-being of residents. One of the things that sets Crete apart is the siesta, which is a rest period after lunch. This is when shops, offices and restaurants are closed, allowing residents to relax during the day. Living in Crete is also a chance to enjoy simple pleasures. It’s a place where you can slow down and appreciate every moment. It’s a place where you can truly live in the moment.
I’d love to hear about your experiences with local traditions in Crete.
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