Expert: RogerE - 6/16/2007

Question
Dear Roger, we are a family of 2 x adults and 3 x ghildren aged 17, 14 , 11yrs all girls. we will be in crete, chania from the 4th to the 7th of july. our first time visiting crete and were wondering what do you suggest we try to do and see in that short time. should we rent a car? is it cheaper to bus it and take tours or on our own?we love the traditional things not to go and necessarily see nothing but tourists everywhere and no locals? husband likes to sightsee and the girls like to shop so we need a happy balance. looking forward to your response. regards, maria

Answer
Maria

You will or should, ceratinly enjoy Crete!

Yes it is too big to "see" in 3 days...but you can see some great things while here.

As a very effective rule of thumb, the moment you go inland you will see the "real" and traditional Crete. Crete is fortunately once you get the hang of driving here (see Driving in Crete http://www.cretetravel.com/Driving_in_Crete.htm ) a very relaxed and worry-free place to wander around - in that you can visit any village you come across, meander around, enjoy local cafes and be most welcome.

Your question really begs more questions as to what you will all enjoy. I suggest contacting CreteTravel.com (see the website and also for where to stay - a little tricky for 3 nights in July as some small and wonderful hotels prefer longer-staying guests in July - see and contact www.Crete-Hotels-Rooms.com and the traditional places
http://www.crete-hotels-rooms.com/Reservations/Traditional/index.htm
http://www.crete-hotels-rooms.com/Reservations/Small_hotels/index.htm  

I refer you as otherwise I would be trying to "re-invent the wheeL" . The expertise and help you need is there, just mention you had asked Roger at AllExperts...it may even help!

Do have a most wonderful and joyful visit.