July 2016, Issue No. 36 www.cretepost.gr
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“BRExit” Sheds Light On
The classic Greek perspective of “citizenry” vs. the “floating fart” Welcome! Bienvenue! Willkommen! Добро пожало вать! Velkommen! Välkommen Välkomna! Tervetuloa! 文化的天空, 人类的天堂
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It seems that whenever the Western World has undergone any kind of crisis as to its identity or approach to things, it eventually turns to the study of its cultural forefathers... The Greeks!
Why Greece’s largest island is a healthy holiday destination
Sweet, ripe tomatoes that taste of the sun’s life-giving rays, salty sea urchins that taste of the sea...
PUBLIC BUS SERVICE is the Best Affordable and Safe Way to Travel to Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion and to all villages of Southwestern Crete
Hope is...
...to take the time to look
back on our accomplishments and think about how we can continue growing as individuals on the years ahead. Sometimes life can be hard and stressful and we forget about all the small strides we make because negativity overpowers us. We might have taken a step back, but the idea is to take two steps ahead and confront the challenges life presents us
CHANIA POST and overcome it with a positive attitude and having hope that everything will turn out all right. Here are some quotes of inspiration ..
row. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” (Albert Einstein)
“You may not by Elpida “Hope” Katsarakis always have a NEA TV Journalist comfortable life and you will not always “Tomorrow is the first be able to solve all of the blank page of a 365 page world’s problems at once book. Write a good one.” but don’t ever underestimate the importance you (Brad Paisley) can have because history “Learn from yesterday, live has shown us that courfor today, hope for tomor- age can be contagious
and hope can take on a life of its own.” (Michelle Obama) “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.” (Steve Jobs)
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Predator or Prey? year, 2016, has provided a very early spring on Crete. Many plants seem to have flowered about 2 to 3 weeks earlier than average and birds have also nested very early. ‘My buzzard’ has been hunting regularly from a pole close to the house, needing to find enough food for ‘junior’. Watching him made me think about predator/prey relationships. In previous months I have written about behavioural ecology and evolutionary ecology and my interest in those two sub-disciplines of ecology. One of my key books when studying ecology was “Insect population Ecology”. It was a very difficult book to read as the language was not easy to follow but it enhanced
that correct culling is operated in the way a wolf population would act. In the early days of computers it was necessary to use screensavers to ensure the screens did not obtain a burned image. It is surprising to look back and consider how complicated programs worked with limited memory. The screensaver I enjoyed most was one of a small section of ocean where I could set certain parameters: the initial populations of fish, breeding intensity etc and an initial population of sharks. The screensaver would play out continually and if there were not enough fish to sustain a population of sharks, sharks would come on screen and drift to the bottom, dead. Other times the fish population
and wait’, which basically means it camouflages itself until prey come into its range. If the cat charges as soon as a deer comes close the deer has the speed to escape and the cat will go hungry: if the cat leaves it too long the deer will move to another area. There has to be optimum timing. For the deer the factors are different. It needs to feed and get sufficient food, without being eaten. When it arrives in the area it does not know whether there is a predator hiding. So initially the amount of food eaten is minimal while the deer’s vigilance is high. As the deer feels more secure the vigilance level drops and more food is eaten. Eventually the deer will move to another area in case it has been seen by a species of cat that hunts actively. Timing is
At its first venture into the sun it can be seen to be very alert, using eyes, vibrations and scent to determine if there is danger. As the lizard feels that there is not a high risk it spends less energy keeping vigil. Although the majority of humans are not real predators, you can watch similar actions and reactions from birds as they move around and keep watch for humans. Do humans exhibit the same vigilant activity, despite the lack of predators, generally? One example that I can give is from a few years ago. We were due to fly from Gatwick Airport exactly a year after 9/11. I was not concerned as I felt security at airports would for more n ews click o n be so high that they could http://cre tepost.gr be the safest places to be. We arrived early in the morning
my understanding of the relationships between predator and prey, which was often a primary key to understanding populations of species. It is difficult to comprehend that a prey’s continued existence is often dependent on its predators. Obviously, the predator cannot take all prey individuals or it loses its food source and it usually takes the weak or old. When the predator is removed from the equation the genes that produce infirmities and other weaknesses remain in the prey population. Also, the population can expand and that in itself can be a problem. It used to be difficult to justify the culling of red deer in Scotland. However, Man removed the only predator of red deer – the wolf – and thus deer populations expanded rapidly. There is now a better understanding by the general public of the need to keep the deer population under control and
would increase and this would allow for an increase in the number of sharks. And so the cycle went on. I used to tweak the parameters so that I was able to get maximum activity on the screen. A visual display of the interactions between prey and predator that often caught the eye of people nearby. More recent studies on the relationship under behavourial ecology have made use of complex calculations using computers. These models can then be used to see whether the hypotheses are found in reality and what effect they will have on conservation requirements and evolution. This all sounds complicated (and in reality is) but the patterns can be seen regularly all over the world and perhaps most easily explained using the African plains and a large cat species that feeds on a deer species. For the explanation, the cat uses the hunting method called ‘sit
critical for both species to survive: the cat to attack when its success rate is highest and the deer to flee before being eaten but having had sufficient food. But the timings will not be fixed. If either used an optimum set timing the other would soon realise that and adjust its behaviour accordingly. This ‘game’ is played continuously and eventually evolution will provide populations of the cat and deer species that are in balance. This is where the linked behaviour of two species will evolve the future of each species – not necessarily the survival of the fittest. But trying to predict actual behavioural patterns is very complicated. Can this relationship or activity of either prey or predator be seen in normal life? The answer is yes if you can recognize the signs, although you may never see the attack or kill. The Cretan wall lizard requires warmth to survive and can be seen most days, sunning itself.
and there was extreme tension from most passengers, staff and security personnel. Almost everybody was very, very vigilant because, like the deer, they were fearful that a ‘predator’ was hiding close by. I do not know whether this tension continued for the rest of the day but once in the Departure Lounge, despite the continued high security, most people seemed to relax a little. We are fairly sheltered from the need to be vigilant on Crete but I guess, a large percentage of commuters using trains or buses in Western Europe are actively monitoring fellow passengers every working day in case one is different, exhibiting odd behaviour and thus a potential risk. The behaviour of vigilance that we have evolved is not dissimilar to that of other animals but our ‘predators’ and threats, genuine or imaginary, are as real as the cat is to the deer.
by David Capon
T his
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Live @ Love @ Laugh
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editorial
So if you are on your favou-
rite beach, enjoying hours sun, swimming and chilling this is Julu or what? by Pandelis Spiridakis Certainly JULY, in the middle of gelamou.gr the summer ... ...and if you have listened over 12 times the next girl’s cell phone ringing and playing the ringtone ‘’Surfing Usa – Beach Boys’’ Then it’s certainly July! We are here , we are ready and you are everywhere or doing beach safari? Checking which is the best beach to choose and have the best time with the magnificent sunrise and a Tequila Sunrise . What? No? Not even close? Preparing yourself for the Beach or talking and making the final desicion for the destination you will have this year your holiday time...These are Significant July Things!!! And need luck and hope. The one and only SOLD OUT Crete issue is the
Rethymno Seaside... What’s hot Rethymno Beaches are each one a tropical experience. Triopetra , Akoumiani Gialia, Adelianos Kampos, Ligres . They are all completely exotic, with a sandy landscape bordered by beautiful clear waters, it’s a little easy to find and the walk from the car park to the beach can be a game, but its size guarantees everyone their own space, and its remoteness makes for an utterly peaceful, relaxing experience. So don’t worry at all. But you know July Problems are huge, inappropriate and unspeakable!!! How to Pick a Juicy Rethymnian Watermelon That is a Problem ...Solve it cause Summer is Here and you are The July Winner!!! 1. Pick It Up:Big or small, the watermelon should feel heavy for its size. 2. Look for the Yellow Spot:Watermelons develop
SFAKIA Hora Sfakion Infokiosk, Loutro, Agia Roumeli, ANENDYK boats
a splotch where they APOKORONAS Georgioupoli, Kavros, Vamos, Kalyves, Vrysses rest on the g r o u n d . Also in Chania taxis, Limnoupolis Water When this Park and in selected cafes, businesses and splotch is shops throughout Chania Prefecture. creamy yellow, it’s ripe. 3. Give It a Thump:Tap the underbelly of the watermelon. A ripe one will have a deep hollow sound. Under-ripe or over-ripe melons will sound dull. So cheer up and Laugh – Time and Fun – Time is all yours! People created life – breaks to fulfill their batteries , forget their problems for a while! People from all over the world are visiting Rethymno with a plan : They are just good life – keepers and not life – spenders! So ...it’s A ‘HAVE FUN’ DATE! Spicy – up your world with a bit of trips, communication and smart well living July yelling , laughs , greetings , street way singings are all yours ...Live it for Good ! Roll throughout your very special summer...It really works I’m telling you!
- Books - Stationery - Consumables
Popi Loupassaki-eodoraki Crossroads to Galatas Old National Road Chania-Kissamos Tel.: +30 28210 32359
- Office supplies - Gis - Photocopies
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KANDANOS-SELINO Paleochora Info Desk, Sougia, Kandanos
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PLATANIAS Central Square Infokiosk, Botanical Park KISSAMOS Gramvousa and Balos boats, Elafonissi, Falassarna
Increasing number of Greeks choose to join private healthcare plans Data published by
the Association of Hellenic Insurance Companies show that an increasing by Stavros Tsihlis number of Greek Insurance & Investment Advisor Citizens are signing up for private health insurance. The number of private health insurance plans jumped 12.5 percent last year from 2014. This increase is noteworthy as the decline in households’ disposable income is evident now more than ever, however it also reflects society’s reaction to the fact that the public healthcare system (EOPYY) is facing serious problems. Statistics show that the
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n click o news .gr e r o t for m retepos /c http:/
number of hospital cover plans came to 313,061 in 2015, compared to 278,211 the year before. This concerns lifelong health insurance policies sold either as purely hospital programs or as supplements to basic life insurance policies or savings programs. When annual health insurance policies are included, the number of healthcare policy holders reaches up to 850,000.
Another category comprises group health policies for the employees and staff of large enterprises, with those insured numbering about 770,000, according to the association’s estimates. Although some of them also have private policies too, it is certain that the sum of private health contract holders is well above 1 million! Besides being a flexible tool for in-
surers, requiring smaller capital and commitment, the annual policies in particular offer a satisfactory solution to a growing number of people who are seeking to secure access to decent healthcare services at a time when the problems of the public social security system are on the rise. e-kathimerini
Shopping patterns and cultural events In the evening of the EU referen-
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dum I went with a friend to a British-frequented bar at one of the by Yannis Xamonakis apokoronasnews.gr busy resorts in Apokoronas to have a drink while anxiously awaiting to hear the results of the EU referendum. The UK EU referendum was main topic of conversation everywhere in the last few weeks among the British but also among Greek locals. A lot of the conversation at the bar inevitably centred around Brexit, the EU and Greece, with passionate arguments made for Remain, the need for Europe to change and about the way Europe has treated Greece. ck on li c r s It was a good opportunity, .g re new epost for mo ttp://cret h while waiting for the results, to reflect on how Greece changed over the last few years as successive governments have been battling to get the country out of the crisis and the European lenders making greater demands for more sacrifices by the Greek people. “But neither Greece nor the Greeks have really changed that much” one of the people around the table said. Well, I admit that at first glance not much appears to have changed. The European mind accustomed to much simpler ways of doing things, is easily boggled by the unnecessary complexity of daily life in Greece. And asks, ‘why do we have to do it like this here ?’ People cited examples of the inability of the Greek state to organise, ranging from the imposition of a smoking ban (which many European residents themselves find rustically charming)
to finding a simple solution for everyday problems, like the traffic chaos in the small villages of Apokoronas which plague residents and visitors summer after summer. “But that is life here and we accept it and if it changed Greece would not be the same”. And people nodded in agreement . And the Greeks, it was said, are going about the daily business as before and are as happy and friendly as ever. More agreement there. Their “happiness” in a matter for debate. But there are other signs to show that a lot has changed for the ordinary Greeks. And it is not just because of the drop in their incomes. The hardy people of this country are used to not having money. Popular songs of the 70s and 80s are testimony to that, singing about the virtues of honest toil amongst the poor workers seeking work in construction sites. And old movies often dealt with the ‘amusing’ exploits of those lucky enough to work in a factory or restaurant in the distant USA or in Germany who, when they return to the motherland are courted by poor relatives desperate to make a living. (Yes, movement of labour existed in those days too, only it was a little bit less glamorous than it is today). The crisis has caused a profound qualitative difference in the way the local Greeks view the world. Something I would find hard to explain without making a reference to the consumption patterns of the average man and woman. When it came to shopping the poor
Greek of the past never questioned the prices of goods in the shop and when the supermarket made its entry to the Greek way of life, the Greek consumer never compared prices. Brand loyalty was the king. My mother was not untypical in insisting on, for example, a particular brand of feta. I remember it well because when I once substituted it on her detailed shopping list for what I thought was a better cheaper alternative, it ended in the bin. You might argue that my mother was difficult and you would, in many respects, be right. However this was not an unusual way of shopping. You might think that this kind of thinking would discourage competition and you would be right once again, something that encouraged companies to increase prices uncontrollably without the inconvenience of creating cartels. Again in the days before Greece became an affluent European country people would go to the local grocer and buy 2 kilos of lemons when whey only needed one single fruit, or ten kilos of tomatoes that would be impossible to use and were left to rot in the cool cabinet. But Greece, for better or worse, is now becoming more European. Increasingly people chose goods using value for money criteria and check carefully what they spent in the supermarket. Horror of horrors only a couple of weeks ago I observed a group of men sitting in the local kafeneion who asked for the bill and split it between them instead of jostling with each
other for the honour of paying the bill for the whole group. So something was gained in terms of reducing waste and some environmental benefits may be had. But I think a significant and hard to define aspect of the Greek character was lost at the same time as a result. And when we are talking about organisation, we need to remember that there will be a wide range of cultural events in all the villages this summer – traditional, locally organised Cretan evenings, concerts, plays and exhibitions – all well run and organised by local organisations and local authorities...... At that point the news on the bar television announced that according to the day polls, the markets (who know a thing or two) and the bookies all predicted a narrow but comfortable win for Remain. Given the time polls closed and taking into account the time difference, the first results were not to be known before two in the morning. The certainty with which the outcome of the vote was predicted stripped the results of any mystery. So, because of the late time and the beer and the heat I decided to make my way home to bed. Only to find out the next morning that the polls, once again, had been wrong. We will now have to wait a little longer to see how this latest European drama plays out. In the meantime we will still have a choice of well organised Cretan events to see us through another summer. At a village near you.
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news & articles
It seems that whenever the Western World has undergone any kind of crisis as to its identity or approach to things, it eventuby Panagiotis ally turns to the Terpandros Zachariou study of its cultural forefathers. The Greeks. It was this study that sparked off the Renaissance, later triggered the formation of the Nation States and that may now reintroduce National borders and national currencies. Stanford University’s Dr. Josiah Ober recently published “The Rise and Fall of Classical n o k c Greece.” In his latest work, he ws cli post.gr e n e r e for mo ttp://cret explains that the commoners h of ancient Greece had a living standard so high that it was unsurpassed until the 19th century. The cause of ancient Greece’s high living standards was attributed to the ethnically homogeneous societies of the City States and their decentralization process. Whenever a city’s population exceeded the production that supported it, colonies were established and trade flourished. Nowadays, common knowledge would have one believe that the Greeks’ decentralization should have made trade impossible. The opposite seems to have been the case: living standards rose for the ancient Greeks until the Romans went multi-cultural, centralized and unified the region. In fact, historical analysts have concluded that life for the commoners was much better under the Greek City States than it was under the multi-ethnic Byzantine Empire, when the civilization became feudal and bureaucratic. The Byzantine theme system levied devastating taxes on the local populations. During the medieval era, the expression “a Byzantine Bureaucracy” was commonly used to describe overburdened systems, such as those evident in our ever-expanding metropolises today and an increasingly centralized European government, with all its dubious social implications. Centralized multicultural systems, funded by banks and conglomerates, heavily rely on “subjects” rather than citizens,
the former being passively dependent on services and subsidies offered by the system they blindly serve, whilst the latter realize that one’s active participation in society, government and economy makes a difference in his standard of living. To reproduce and perpetuate governmental dependence, over the past 20 years, the International Mass Media has been touting a “cosmopolitan” world-citizen identity as opposed to national identities, the latter increasingly labeled as “fascist,” “racist,” “nationalist” and all the –ist suffixed totems of disapproval. Through the notion of being a world-citizen, however, people are often disoriented as to where to devote their creative energy. In the absence of any sense of belonging, many of them join globalist organizations and turn their backs on their origins, often creating chasms and friction between selves and those who cling on to their national roots. Meanwhile, there are also those self-proclaimed cosmopolites who are only willing to selectively practice their world citizenry in the developed capitals of the world where they can do their shopping… Aristotle noted that without fully active social involvement, one can never develop into a healthy human being. Prerequisite to such involvement is one’s bonding with his/her fellow citizens in neighborhoods, towns and villages, which today are being swallowed up by multi-storied mausoleums in modern cities where essential social interaction (and therefore the fermentation of any kind of culture) is reduced to nil.
In absence of any kind of healthy social bonding within “cosmopolitan” environments, many young people who are willing to embrace anything that will give them a sense of belonging fall easy prey to various organizations that champion the idea of “a world without borders.” They are recruited to embrace the interests of 3d world migration into Europe with a complete disregard of the social instability that an unchecked influx of non-compatible ethnic groups may impose on indigenous populations. The neo-human emerging from the modern idea of a “COSMOPOLITAN/ WORLD-CITIZEN” identity functions like a rootless entity, pretty much like a “floating fart” that produces no culture and nothing of essence other than the lingering stench subsequent to the decay of decomposing ethnic societies. This stench, however, may have finally reached the nostrils of many Europeans who have of late witnessed the mass invasion of non-compatible elements from Asia and Africa streaming into the continent. The mask of a Pan-European government has fallen. The true face that has emerged is that of a system that does not serve the interests of European peoples. For it has become all too evident, that to do away with the “Ethnic Citizen” and to establish the “Cosmopolitan Subject” (that is, the serf to be exploited by the system), mass migration policies and anti-racist laws aimed to muffle any dissent were implemented by Brussels to dilute the indigenous populations of Europe who do not take kindly to seeing their re-
gions turned into multi-cultural quagmires. Brexit may very well be only the tip of the iceberg as to what may follow, since economical interests may be cast aside in favour of the complacent security of the ethnic hearths that have always given Europe its unique identity through its Nation States. “Xenophobic” it may be labeled by New World Order buffs, but the fact remains that it is a slap in the face of globalization and a clear stance against the invasion of the uninvited. Besides, to decide on what is right not only for Europe, but the planet as a whole, we should take the cue from our most vital organ - our heart! Just as love is diffused and expanded from the center, and not the other way around, so should each person begin improving the world from where he/ she stands - from home. By trying to improve our immediate environment communally and environmentally, we contribute a healthy cell to the infrastructure of our planet. It was this mentality that gave birth to the world’s greatest civilization and crowned the Acropolis rock with a Parthenon, before Athens also turned into a fart through its effort to imperialize Ionia and centralize its colonies. Anything else is Utopia (from Greek ou=no + topos =place, meaning “no such place”). It is this UTOPIA that is being touted to the naive by all the manipulating forces that want to dilute the diversity of ethnic peoples into uncivilized, multicultural populaces ripe for exploitation.
漀爀 ⬀㌀ 㘀㤀㠀 ㈀㤀㈀㤀 ㌀㌀㤀
The honeybees pendant was dis-
covered in the Necropolis of the Minoan Palace of Malia on the island of Crete, and is thought to date to c.1800 BC. The site of the ancient cemetery is named Chryssolakkos, or “pit of gold”, because of the many precious objects that were found there. The scale of the palace and the plethora of treasures found in this adjoining burial ground, certainly suggest that those buried here were significantly wealthy and of high standing in the local community. The Palace of Malia, which is located about 3km east of the town, is the third largest of the Minoan Pal-
aces, covering an area of around 7,500 square metres and, according to myth was ruled by Sarpedon, son of Zeus and Europa and brother of the famous King Minos. The Palace was originally constructed in c. 1900 BC but was destroyed by an earthquake c 1700. It was rebuilt soon after and most of what we can see at the archaeological site today dates to this second phase of construction, termed the Neopalatial complex. However, the Necropolis, where the pendant was found, dates to the first phase of construction. The pendant itself is made from gold and comprises two bees, their
bodies curved towards each other and their wings outstretched, clasping a honeycomb into which they are placing a small drop of honey. The piece is striking not only because of its unusual composition and intricate rendering, but also because of the significance of its subject-matter. In the cultures of the Ancient Near East and Aegean, the bee was believed to be a sacred insect, especially associated with connecting the natural world to the underworld, which helps to explain why a pendant with such a design was placed in the tomb with the deceased.
Often, the bee appears in tomb decoration and, in Mycenae, so-called tholos tombs were sometimes even shaped as beehives. The bee also played a central role in Minoan and Mycenaean daily life; beekeping was a Minoan craft, which produced the fermented honey drink mead, older even than wine. The bee was also the symbol of the Minoan-Mycenaean goddess Potnia, meaning “mistress”, who was also referred to as “The Pure Mother Bee”. Her priestesses, too, were given the name Melissa, meaning “bee”, and some of our extant literary sources, such as Pindar, indicate that this practice carried on long after, with worshippers of Demeter and Artemis also being referred to as bees, as well as the Py- thia at Apollo’s oracle in Delphi. for more n ews click o n The pendant provides us http://cre tepost.gr with evidence for the advanced standard of workmanship in metal that was obviously being practised in this area at the time, since the artist has expertly wrought the honeycomb and certain details on the bees’ bodies using the difficult process of granulation. During this process, tiny beads of gold were applied to the surface of the jewellery using a compound of glue and copper salt, which, when heated, fused together the required components. As well as indicating the sophisticated technological knowledge of the Minoans, such obvious care and attention to detail perhaps also reflects the significance of the bee and confirms its important role within this ancient civilisation. Alexandra Hamburger
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The classic Greek perspective of “citizenry” vs. the “floating fart”
The Minoan Honeybees
news & articles
“BRExit” Sheds Light On
Walking through a wonderland by Niall Finn
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news & articles
Gesturing for silence, I caught the attention of the couple coming up the steep track. Where I had heard movement in the forest, a brown, chicken-sized bird with a powerful beak emerged and began pecking among the small ferns. “Is it a kiwi?” whispered the young woman, seeing that it had no obvious wings and knowing that New Zealand’s most famous bird could not fly. Later, as we continued along the Queen Charlotte Track in the far north of the country’s South Island, I explained it was a weka, similar in size but with a powerful wedgeshaped beak and active during the day, whereas the much shyer kiwis are nocturnal and have a long narrow beak with the nostrils right at the end to n o k r s clic re new cretepost.g smell insects in the leaf o m r / fo http:/ litter. Along with several other native birds, neither could fly because of New Zealand’s geological isolation for hundreds of millions of years. With no native land mammals to threaten them, New Zealand’s forest birds had no need of flight. As a result, some developed powerful legs from a lifestyle on the ground, where they also built their nests. Meanwhile, their wings shrank and virtually disappeared. When humans arrived, however, they brought with them dogs and cats and, even more dangerous for the eggs and therefore the survival of some species, mice and rats. New Zealand’s Department of Conservation has cleared these vermin from several offshore islands and resettled some endangered species there. Signs along the first section of this four-day walking track explained that the traps you could sometimes see were part of an experiment in clearing these predators from a zone of the mainland so that eventually the endangered species could be returned to their original habitat. The track we were following was opened up in the 1990s, recreating an almost 100 year old footway and bridle track once used to bring supplies into “The Sounds” – a magical landscape of river valleys drowned by the sea. The slow tilting of the South Island (similar to the way western Crete is rising out of the sea) has left the higher ridges between valleys as long winding peninsulas separated by sheltered bays that are dotted by islands that were once hilltops. Settlement is very thin and predominantly comprises holiday houses. There are few roads and most places can only be reached by water. It is an area I knew quite well because my father was a land surveyor in the nearby
town of Blenheim and I worked with him often during school holidays. With a shock I realised that 50 years had flown by in the meantime. While there were more holiday homes than I remembered, the biggest change was that much marginal farming land had been allowed to revert to native forest, beautiful in itself with majestic tree ferns and now home to returning native birds with their characteristic clear and echoing song. Starting point for the adventure is the small port of Picton, the southern terminus of the interisland ferry route. From there, it is just over an hour by passenger launch down the length of Queen Charlotte Sound to Ship Cove, where Captain Cook careened his ship, the Endeavour, to clean and repair the hull. He was so taken with
Cove, normally the end of the shorter second day’s walk. The tour operator’s launch took me across the inlet, where my big backpack awaited me on the small wharf. With the tide out, I could walk round to Noeline’s Homestay. Noeline, my hostess, turned out to be an 84-year-old with a passion for solo travelling since first leaving New Zealand in her 60s. She has already visited nearly 70 countries and when I asked her which she enjoyed most, she replied “Mongolia – though Borneo was also lovely; and last year I had a great time in Chile and Argentina…” Hosting walkers often a quarter her age is clearly keeping her young as well as funding her own travels. From the veranda of Noeline’s wooden house, Day 2 dawned so completely windstill that a handful of anchored
the place that he returned a further four times during the 1770s. From Cook’s anchorage offshore, the botanist Joseph Banks (later president of the Royal Society for 41 years and the guiding force in the establishment of Kew Gardens) described the birdsong as the most beautiful he had ever heard. The first day on the track is only 15 kilometres but much of that is the steep ascent, and subsequent descent from, the high ridge that separates Ship Cove on the seaward side of this crustal block from the more sheltered Endeavour Inlet. There is a range of accommodation near the end of this section of the route but my first day coincided with a major public holiday so that the only remaining beds were in a luxury resort and I had consequently booked two nights at Punga
yachts floated beside their reflections in the bay beneath the deep green of the native forest. This day’s route is the shortest of the four, less than 12 kilometres, and far and away the easiest – allowing the less fit walker to recover from the steep previous day and gather energy ahead of Day 3, the longest and most demanding section of the Queen Charlotte Track. Always within a few hundred metres of the shoreline, in places as broad as a country road and rising and falling in altitude only negligibly, the path is a most enjoyable stroll that would offer good shade even in the height of summer. Tree ferns up to 6 metres in diameter alternate with New Zealand’s other evergreen trees and because I was walking this section in the opposite direction to normal (a result of staying the previous night
at the end of the Day 2 section) I was alone on the track except for the few occasions somebody came the other way. Moving almost in silence, I didn’t frighten the native birds and was able to enjoy their silvery song for several hours before reaching the point I had ended the previous day’s walk and taking a boat back to Noeline’s. Punga Cove is one of only three places on the entire 70 kilometres of the Track that is accessible by road, although it is almost 2 hours of twisting gravel road from Picton, as against 45 minutes by water. The walk’s first section up to the ridge follows the road and I was up so early that a blanket of mist was still seeping out of the forested valleys towards the sea. An hour’s steady climb and I found myself high above the deep blue waters of Bay of Many Coves in Queen Charlotte Sound down to my left. Coming into sight on my right was the greener, shallower end of Kenepuru Sound. Those two deep gouges into the land shape the entire 25 kilometres of Day 3 as you follow the high ground of the narrow ridge between them. The rain-bearing winds from off Cook Strait ensure a rich forest cover to the left of the track, while Kenepuru Sound is in something of a rain shadow and covered in drier, more open vegetation. A curious weka watched my frugal lunch at a stunning viewpoint looking out on two small wooded islands. A steep narrow descent brought the Track to an asphalt road beside a small cemetery for local soldiers killed in the Boer War and First World War. 700 metres down the road, Day 3 ends at the small settlement of Portage, where Maori canoes were once carried over the low saddle from Queen Charlotte to Keneperu Sound or vice versa. The fourth, and last, day on the Queen Charlotte Track is a bit like a “bad news/good news” joke. The day’s march of 20 kilometres takes you first back up the road to the cemetery, followed by the steepest and longest climb one encounters anywhere on the path. At the highest point the Track ever reaches, Kenepuru Sound to the right has grown wider, deeper and more majestic, whereas Queen Charlotte Sound continues to narrow past the port of Picton until it reaches the small settlement of Anakiwa, noted when I was a child as the home of an Outward Bound school. The good news is that almost all the rest of the path is downhill, sometimes along the edge of farmland and eventually coming right down to sea level where a tall grey heron stood at the mouth of a small stream. A small knot of trampers were already waiting at the wharf for the boat that would take them back to Picton.
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Australia
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news & articles
has no volcanoes, even though this most ancient of continents is ringed by active volcanoes to the north in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, as well as to the east in New Zealand. In the geological past, however, there were several episodes of volcanism that have left their traces despite long intervening periods of erosion. Igneous (once molten) rock features are particularly evident in the landscape of north-eastern New South Wales and south-eastern Queensland. Almost halfway between Sydney and the Queensland border (and nine long hours from Sydney by train) is the town of Coffs Harbour, backed by the rippling n o k c green hills of the Great li sc .gr re new epost Dividing Range. From the for mo ttp://cret h
smaller settlement of Bellingen, to the south of Coffs Harbour, a steep and scenic road twists up “the mountain” as the locals say to the small plateau town of Darrigo, high in the Dividing Range. Just outside the township with its single short shopping street dominated by a two-storey wooden hotel built in 1910, a river pours across the edge of an ancient lava flow at Dangar Falls, just one of a whole series of waterfalls in the district. The most striking are at Ebor, 50 kilometres away to the west, where the bright green improved farming land around Darrigo gives way to much drier vegetation on the Range’s less-watered western flank. However, the river that tumbles over a massive sheet of very hard rock left by an ancient local volcano has its source near the crest, providing enough water to exploit minor weaknesses in the strata. The result at
Ebor Falls is dramatic – the majestic two-tiered waterfalls that form the initial steps down from the plateau known as the Northern Tablelands are then dwarfed by the lower falls that plunge into a forested valley from a vast curve of cliffs. A walking path almost a kilometre in length provides a series of lovely views down onto one or other of the cascades and across to the cliffs, where the molten rock cooled in many places into columns reminiscent of the Giants Causeway in Northern Ireland. Nearly 3 hours further north (in Australia, with its vast distances and roads differing greatly in quality, distances are usually described in terms of travelling time, in this case 230 kilometres), lies Tenterfield, just inside the border with Queensland. On both sides of the state boundary, vast quantities of molten rock were pressed between the existing strata 220 million years ago. These pools of magma cooled underground into granite that is now revealed on the surface after softer sedimentary rocks were removed by erosion. In cold northern Europe, from Aberdeen to
Norway, granite is known as an extremely hard and weather-resistant rock. In high temperatures, however, and especially in the presence of water, the feldspars in the crystalline structure weather easily into a kind of sand. At the same time, the cubelike blocks between joints within the granite expand and contract in the considerable daily temperature fluctuations. Stresses are greatest at the corners, so the blocks become rounded, shedding layers like onions in a process called exfoliation. The result is a bizarre landscape of smooth rock outcrops, rounded boulders – some as big as a house – balanced precariously and arches where a gap weathered between two boulders is roofed over by another huge rock. Two national parks, Bald Rock in New South Wales and Girraween in Queensland protect the rich animal life (particularly kangaroos and wallabies but also echnida) and merge seamlessly into each other. Bald Rock, rising about 200 metres above the thinly forested landscape, is some 750 metres in length and 500 metres in width, making it the largest
Our retreat proved a wise precaution since that night a thunderstorm dumped over an inch of rain onto the parched ground around us. The following morning, as we drove north, we came across several groups of wallabies and kangaroos out in the open feasting on patches of fresh grass. Heading north-east to Brisbane, we followed an extremely scenic road past the majestic Queen Mary Falls to the main ridgeline of the Great Dividing Range, a road that plunged vertig-
OFF
inously down the far flank with a view out onto conical hills that were unmistakably the remnants of volcanic cones. Even more striking examples, however, are to be found an hour north of Brisbane on the Sunshine Coast – the Glasshouse Mountains. What appears at first sight to be the oddest of names has an explanation. The range was named by Captain Cook over 240 years ago when “glasshouse” had a quite different meaning; namely, the kind of kiln in which glass
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was manufactured, something Cook had seen in his native Yorkshire. The technical term for a column of lava in the crater of a volcano that has solidified into a harder rock than the rest of the crater – and therefore for more news click on remained as an outcrop dehttp://cre tepost.gr spite subsequent erosion – is a “volcanic plug” (for example, the outcrop on which Edinburgh Castle was built). The extent to which the Glasshouse Mountains plugs dominate their surrounding landscape is evident from the fact that although they are not very close to the coast Cook observed them when cruising well offshore. According to an aborigine legend, these mountains were a family. The father, Mt Tibrogargan (whose impressive cliffs are used for rock climbing) dispatched son Coonowrin to warn the others of an impending tidal wave. When he looked round, Coonowrin was simply trying to save himself. Tibrogargan hit him so hard his neck was twisted and then turned his back on the wretch. To this day most impressive cliffs on Mt Tibrogargan face away from Mt Coonowrin, which is indeed tilted.
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by Niall Finn
granite monolith in Australia. There are two ways of climbing the rock and my uncle and I, with a total age of 143, opted for the gentler approach through bushland rather than the shorter route straight up the steep slope of the granite. Our path went through an archway and between colossal boulders partly screened by trees before emerging onto an open rock surface with a steadily steepening convex curve down to the forest. Several boulders the size of camper vans looked as if they might slide away at any moment. Girraween National Park boasts several granite outcrops. These are smaller than Bald Rock but noticeably steeper, particularly one called The Pyramids, the path to which passes through a most impressive arch before climbing 500 steps. At that point the peak becomes visible at the top of a seriously steep and totally smooth granite surface. With storm clouds gathering in the distance, we decided to retrace our steps to the camping ground – rain-wet granite is almost as slippery as ice, meaning that a serious and perhaps fatal fall couldn’t be ruled out if we were still on the slope when it rained.
news & articles
Landscape born in fire
䄀最椀愀 䴀愀爀椀渀愀 䌀䠀䄀一䤀䄀
“MEET... CHANIA” in 12 pages
by Chania Post in collaboration with Chania Prefecture
Welcome! Bienvenue! Willkommen! Добро пожал овать! Velkommen! Välkommen Välkomna! Tervetuloa! 文化的天空, 人类的天堂
www.chania.eu www.incrediblecrete.gr
GMT +2 Welcome! Bienvenue! Willkommen! Добро пожаловать! Velkommen! Välkommen Välkomna! Tervetuloa! 文化的天空, 人类的天堂
A few things you have to know about Crete
Crete, the 5th biggest Med Island, lies in the southern frontier of Europe. Crete combines mountains and sea, the new alongside with the old and ancient with contemporary history. It is a cultural crossroad due to its strategic geographical position. English, German, French, Russian and other languages are widely spoken in tourist resorts. The climate is a factor that greatly contributes to its attractiveness. It is mild Mediterranean – dry and warm, which means high sunshine all year round, very small seasonal changes in temperatures and no extreme weather phenomena. Tap water is safe for consumption, the consumption of bottled water is recommended. The international call code for Greece is +30.
www.chania.eu www.incrediblecrete.gr a heavenly and autiful Chania, be to e m co el W ral beauty, hisming with natu land whose pure land brim culture. It is a d an y and will or em m tory, in all its glory perience nature ex ill w rs to si vi . thtaking sights othy encounter brea bordered in fr re ho as se of s he tc sanre d st an s Endles ic beauty islands of exot d ng an di id ts le rb in fo , of lace foot ed away at the dy beaches tuck mountains. tic gorges, holy yet such majes t bu e bl ains thickly tra ne Impe lush, green pl d an s er riv d caves, blesse es. ive and citrus tre covered with ol
Остров Крит, колыбель европейской цивилизации, и его гостеприимные жители рады приветствовать вас! Мы обещаем вам незабываемые впечатления, независимо от того, в первый ли раз вы сюда приехали или посещаете Крит регулярно. Это место идеально подходит, чтобы отдохнуть или исследовать горы, море, города и деревни. Живите в ритме этого чудесного острова с утра до вечера. Откройте для себя Крит!
Välkommen til l vackra Chani a, ett himmel och äkta land skt fullt med natu rlig skönhet, toria, minnen hisoch kultur. Det är en plat s där besökare n kom turen i all dess majestätiska sk mer att få uppleva naönhet och möt enastående va ckra platser. as av Ändlösa sträck or av fasciner ande kust bild gränser i norr ar dess , söder och vä ster. In i mellan m öts man av ex otiska stränder i vissa fall gö och öar, mda bakom st ora imponera Likaså finns nde berg. här fantastiska raviner som genom bergen skär sig ut mot haven, liksom heliga spännande stal grottor med agmiter och al agmiter.
Velkommen til smukke Chania, en paradisisk og ægte egn fyldt med naturlig skønhed, historie, minder og kultur.Her vil den besøgende opleve naturen i dens fulde pragt, og komme til at stå overfor steder der tager vejret fra en. Endeløse bugtede kyster, eksotiske småøer og gemte sandstrande ved foden af de vilde bjerge. Ufremkommelige men fortryllende kløfter, hellige grotter, velsignede floder, og fredlige dybtgrønne sletter, beplantet med oliven træer og citrusfrugter. En egn selvforsynende med alt og rig på sjældne dyr og planter. I Chania vil den besøgende blive imponeret over de menneskelige værker. Velkommen til vakre Hania, et paradisisk og rent land full av naturskjønnheter, historie, minner og kultur. Det er et land der de besøkende vil oppleve naturen i all dens prakt og se steder som gjør en stum av begeistring. Endeløse kyststrekninger med skummende hav, små bukter og øyer av eksotisk skjønnhet og skjulte sandstrender ved foten av avskrekkende fjell. Vanskelig tilgjengelige, men majestetiske fjellkløfter, hellige huler, velsignede elver og rolige grønne sletter dekket med oliven- og sitrus trær. Et land som er selvnærende på alle måter, rikt på dyreliv og planter, endemiske (stedegne) og sjeldne.
Museums | Musée | Museen | Mузеи | Museer | Μuseot | 博物馆 Archaeological Museum of Chania 25 Halidon str. - Tel. 28210 90334. Open: 8.30-15.00 (except Mondays) Maritime Museum of Crete Akti Koundourioti, Venetian Harbour. Tel. 28210 91875/74484. Open: 9.00-16.00 (1/4-31/10), 9.00-14.00 (1/11-31/3) Μinoan Ship Moro dock, Venetian Harbour. Τel. 28210 91875. Open: Μay-Οct. Mon.-Fri. 10.00-15.00 & 19.00-22.30 (except public holidays) Historical Archives of Crete 20 I. Sfakianaki str., Tel. 28210 52606. Open: 9.00-14.00 (except Sat. & Sun.) Folklore Museum Gavalochori, Apokoronas. Tel. 28250 23222. Open: 9.00-20.00, Sat. 9.00-19.00, Sun. 10.00-13.00 Folklore Museum “Cretan House” 46b Halidon str. Tel. 28210 90816. Open: 9.00-15.00 & 18.00-21.00 Byzantine collection Theotokopoulou str. Tel. 28210 96046. Open: 8.30-15.00 (except Mondays)
Willkommen. Gleichzeitig is t Chania der Hauptort des gl eichnamigen R egionalbezirks, der ehemaligen Präfektur Chani a, der den gesamten Westen K retas umfasst. C hania war von bis 1971 die H 1841 auptstadt der In sel Kreta. Chania hat seit dem Ende der Fremdherrschaf in Schüben ve t ein rlaufendes star kes Bevölkeru swachstum zu ngverzeichnen. Die Markthalle von Chania stam mt aus den Jahr 1911 bis 1913. en Der Bau aus G usseisen mit off Dachstuhl wur enem de nach dem Vo rbild der Markt Marseille konz halle in ipiert.
Bienvenue. Bien qu’elle ait été bombardée pendant la Seconde Guerre mondiale, La Canée est considérée comme une des plus jolies villes de Crète, particulièrement le vieux port vénitien avec son phare du XVe siècle et la mosquée des Janissaires. La Canée bénéficie d’un climat typiquement méditerranéen caractérisé par des hivers frais et humides et des étés chauds et secs. Le marché couvert datant de 1913, basé sur les plans de celui de Marseille, est aux abords de la vieille ville et est populaire aussi bien auprès des touristes que des habitants locaux.
欢迎到美丽的哈尼亚, 一片天堂般的处女地； 到处洋溢着自然的美, 写满了历史 、美丽的 回忆和文化。 到访者都会感受大自然的伟大，这里的景色令 人惊叹。波光粼粼的大海一望无际。海湾，美 丽的岛屿，巍峨的山边海滩构成了一副绝妙的 风景画。百思不得其解的神 秘峡谷，天然溶 洞，天赐的河流充满着一派生机。美丽的原野 到处是橄榄树和柑橘类树种。这是自给自足的 沃土，分布着特有的动植物种群。 reikassa. Se on nia on kunta K ha C ! na m ko äl V kaupunki Irak toiseksi suurin imis nt lä n, Kreetan saaren kö si yk ja Hanian alue punki. Kunlionin jälkeen siköstä, pääkau yk ue al ä st ljä ennan mukaan män Kreetan ne 2011 väestölask en od vu muun ui as nassa ovat kotoisin ta. Chaniasta as uk ri El as la 0 aa 31 im 8 on 10 ikuttanut ik va sa as nj pa al ja kreikk ainmuassa Es a Mouskouri an N a aj a on ul la Greco, nizélos. Chani Elefthérios Ve s hania ie C om a. lti ss va io en joiden suos ili ka at m s yö anian kansainnykyään m ella sijaitsee H ol pu is ill ko n entojen lähtö- ja kaupungi on tärkeä lomal ka jo a, m se oa nt välinen le . saapumispaikka
Sights | Spectacles | Sehenswürdigkeiten | Достопримечательности Att göra | Nähtävyydet | Seværdigheder | Attraksjoner | 景点
Ekklesiastic Museums - Monastery of Holy Trinity of Tzagarolon, Αkrotiri. Tel. 28210 63310. Open: 8:00-20:00 - Gouverneto Monastery, Αkrotiri. Tel. 28210 63319 - Monastery of Chrissopigi, Chania. Tel. 28210 91125 - Monastery of Gonia, Kissamos . Tel. 28240 22313
Centre of Mediterranean Architecture Chania, 31 Αkti Tombazi, Venetian Harbour. Tel. 28210 40101/40201
War Museum Tzobanaki Cassern. Tel. 28210 44156. Open: 9:00-13:00 (except Sat. & Sun.)
Villa Koundourou (Youth Centre and Municipal Cultural Workshop) Chania, 2 Iroon Politechniou str. Tel. 28210 53730/40896. Open: 9:00-14:00 and 18:00-21:00
Chemistry Museum 34c Eleftherios Venizelos str. Tel. 28210 42504. Open: 9:00-13:00 (except Sat. & Sun.) Byzantine and Folklore Museum of Spilia, Kissamos Tel. 28240 22080/22357. Open: 17:00-18:00, Sat. 11:00-12:00
Institute of Cretan Justice Nearchou str., Chania. Open: 10:00-14:00
“Chrissostomos” Literary Association Chania, 83 Halidon str. Tel. 28210 53879 Municipal Art Gallery Chania, 98 Halidon str. Tel. 28210 92294/92419
Typography Museum, VIOPA, Souda Tel. 28210 51003. Open: 10:00-18:00
Venizelion School of Music 5 N. Foka str. Tel. 28210 43067/52582. Open: 8:00-14:00 and 17:00-21:00
Museum of National Resistance, Therisso Open all year round
Lyceum for Greek Girls 1 K. Mitsotaki str. Tel. 28210 42465/59444
House of Eleftherios Venizelos a. Mournies, Kydonia. Tel. 28210 93132/95250. Open: 18:00-21:00. b. Elena Venizelou sqr., Halepa, Chania (Eleftherios K. Venizelos Foundation). Tel. 28210 56008
Cultural Centre of the Metropolis 2 Ant. Giannari str. Tel. 28210 27807-9 Intellectual Centre of Chania 70 A.Papandreou str. Tel. 28210 40525
Mosque of Kioutsouk Hasan (Yali-Tzamisi) Venetian Harbour. Tel. 28210 83235/83232 Park for the Preservation of Flora and Fauna Technical University of Crete, Akrotiri. Τel. 28210 55988. Open: Mon.-Sat. Arts & Crafts Village, VIOPA, Souda Τel. 28210 80132/81410. Open: 10.00-14.30 School Life Museum, Νerokourou Τel. 28210 74764. Open: Mon.-Fri. 9.00-13.30, Mon. & Wed. 18.00-20.30, Sat. 10.00-13.00 Archaeological Museum of Kissamos Τel. 28220 83308. Open: 8.30-15.00 (except Mondays) Olive Museum-Institute of Olive & Subtropicals Τel. 28210 83476/83428. Open: 8.00-14.00 via phone arrangement Sea Life & Fishery Museum, Kolimbari Τel. 28240 23299. Open: 10.00-18.00 (exc. Sat.-Sun.) An. Skalidis Museum, Perivolia, Kissamos Τel. 28220 61052. Frontier Museum of Europe, Paleochora Τel. 28230 42265.Open: Οct.-Μay Mon.-Fri. 10.00-13.00, June-Sept. Wed.-Sun. 10.00-13.00 & 18.00-21.00
Beaches | Plages | Strände | пляжи | Strande | Strender | Stränder | Rannat | 海滩 Numerous beautiful beaches with soft sand or coloured pebbles are found in the prefecture of Chania. All beaches have crystalline waters and look like paradise. Afrata: Type: Pebbles - Distance: 28km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, parking, cafe, snack Agia Marina: Type: Sand - Distance: 9km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, parking, cafés, snack, beach bars, tavernas, restaurants, water sports, accommodation, all Inclusive Hotels, pharmacies, doctors, ATM cashpoint machines, super markets, shops, car rentals Agia Roumeli: Village on the south coast of Chania prefecture, between Chora Sfakion and Sougia. Type: Pebbles - Facilities: Showers, umbrellas and sunbeds, cafe, snack, tavernas, accommodation, mini market, ferry boat trips Agioi Apostoli: Type: Sand - Distance: 3km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, water sports, lifeguard, free parking area, cafes, snack, beach bars, tavernas, restaurants, accommodation, taxi station, bus stop, mini markets, super markets, tourist offices and car rental offices Almirida: Type: Sand - Distance: 23km east of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, water sports, windsurfing school, cafes, beach bars, restaurants, accommodation, mini markets, ATM cashpoint machines Balos Beach: Type: Sand - Distance: 55km west of Chania town Facilities: Canteens, umbrellas and sunbeds Chora Sfakion: Type: Pebbles - Facilities: Restaurants, cafes, shops Crissi Akti Beach: Type: Sand - Distance: 2.5km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, water sports, volley ball courts, children’s playground, parking, cafes, snack, beach bars, tavernas, restaurants, accommodation, super markets, taxi station Drapanias: Type: Sand - Distance: 33km west of Chania town Facilities: Showers, umbrellas and sunbeds, cafe, snack, restaurants, tavernas, accommodation, campsite, bakery, mini market Elafonissi: Type: Sand - Distance: 75 km from Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, parking, canteen, cafe, taverns, accommodation, mini market Falasarna: Type: Sand - Distance: 59km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, water sports, volley ball court, lifeguard, parking, cafes, snack, beach bars, tavernas, restaurants, accommodation Frangokastello: Type: Sand - Distance: 80km southeast of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, cafes, restaurants, fish taverns, shops, mini market, accommodation Georgioupoli: Type: Sand - Distance: 38km east of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguards, water sports, cafes, beach bars, restaurants, accommodation, mini markets, super markets, shops, ATM cashpoint machines Gerani: Type: Sand - Distance: 15km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, water sports, lifeguard, parking, cafés, snack, bars, beach bars, restaurants, accommodation, all Inclusive hotels, shops, pharmacy, super markets Gialiskari/Anidri Beach: Type: Sand/Pebbles - Distance: 74km south of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, two canteens
Elafonissi
Kalathas Beach: Type: Sand - Distance: 13km north east of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, parking, cafes, snack, restaurants, water sports, accommodation, mini markets, souvenir shops Kalives: Type: Sand - Distance: 19km east of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, water sports, windsurfing school, cafes, beach bars, restaurants, accommodation, mini markets, ATM cashpoint machines Kedrodassos: Type: Sand - Distance: 74km south west of Chania town Kisamos (Mavros Molos): Type: Sand - Distance: 36km west of Chania Facilities: Showers, umbrellas and sunbeds, cafes, snack, restaurants, tavernas, accommodation, shops, mini markets, super markets, ATM’s, doctor’s offices
Agii Apostoli
Kolymvari (Kolymbari): Type: Sand/Pebbles - Distance: 23km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, water sports, parking, cafe, snack, tavernas, restaurants, accommodation, mini markets Koundoura/Krios Beach: Type: Pebbles - Distance: 80km south of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas, sunbeds, parking, canteen Kyani Akti Beach: Type: Sand - Distance: 18km east of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, water sports, parking, canteens, restaurants, tavernas Loutraki Beach: Type: Sand - Distance: 16km east of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, water sports, parking, cafes, snack, restaurant, accommodation Loutro: Type: Pebbles - Distance: 71km south of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, cafe, snack bars, restaurants, fish taverns, accommodation, mini markets, souvenir shops Maleme: Type: Sand - Distance: 17km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, parking, cafés, snack, restaurants, water sports, accommodation, mini markets, souvenir shops, pharmacies Marathi Beach: Type: Sand - Distance: 16km east of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, water sports, parking, cafes, snack, restaurants, accommodation
Falassarna
Marmara Beach: Type: Pebbles - Distance: 85km south of Chania town Facilities: Pachia Ammos: Type: Sand - Distance: 71km south of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas, sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, water sports, beach bar, cafes, restaurants, taverns, accommodation Platanias: Type: Sand - Distance: 10km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, parking, cafe, snack, beach bars, restaurants, water sports, accommodation, all inclusive hotels, pharmacies, doctors, ATM cashpoint machines, super markets, shops, car rentals, playgrounds, mini golf courts Sougia: Type: Pebbles - Distance: 60km south of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, parking, cafes, bars, restaurants, taverns, fish taverns, mini markets, bakery, accommodation
Balos
Stalos Beach: Type: Sand - Distance: 7km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, parking, cafés, snack, beach bars, restaurants, water sports, accommodation, all inclusive hotels, pharmacies, doctors, ATM cashpoint machines, super markets, shops, car rentals
Glyka Nera Beach: Type: Pebbles - Distance: 75km south of Chania Facilities: Canteen, umbrellas
Stavros Beach: Type: Sand - Distance: 17km east of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, water sports, parking, cafe, beach bars, tavernas, restaurants, accommodation, mini markets
Grammeno Beach: Type: Sand/Pebbles - Distance: 75km south of Chania Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, parking, beach bars, restaurants, accommodation
Tavronitis: Type: Pebbles - Distance: 18km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, parking, cafés, snack, beach bars, restaurants, water sports, accommodation, all inclusive hotels, mini market
Kalamaki: Type: Sand - Distance: 4km west of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, water sports, lifeguard, parking, cafes, snack, beach bar, tavernas, restaurants, accommodation
Tersanas Beach: Type: Sand - Distance: 13km nort east of Chania town Facilities: Umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, lifeguard, water sports, parking, cafe, snack, restaurant, accommodation, mini markets, souvenir shops, pharmacies
Georgioupolis
FROM CHANIA TO RETHYMNON
6,80 €
HERAKLION
15,10 €
SAMARIA GORGE
15,70 €
(round
trip, return from Chora Sfakion)
ELAFONISI
11,00 €
FALASARNA
8,30
€
KISSAMOS PORT
6,80
€
CHANIA AIRPORT
2,50 €
BOTANICAL PARK
2,70 €
CHORA SFAKION
8,30
€
SOUGIA
7,80
€
PALEOCHORA
8,30 €
PLATANIAS
2,10 €
AGIA MARINA
1,80 €
PATRA IOANNINA THESSALONIKI
21,50 € 45,00 € 42,00 €
FROM RETHYMNON TO HERAKLION
8,30
BALI
3,80 €
ARKADI
3,10 €
PREVELI
5,00 €
AGIA GALINI
Αγοράστε online το εισιτήριο σας You can buy online your ticket
Kydonias & Parth. Kelaidi, Chania 73100 Informations : 2821 093052
6,70
€
€
www.e-ktel.com email: info@e-ktel.gr
Kefalogiannidon Street, Rethymnon 74100 Informations : 2831 022785
Churches/Monasteries | Eglises/Μonastères | Kirchen/Klöster | Церкви/монастыри | Kirker/Κlostre | Kyrkor/Κloster | Kirkot/Luostarit | 教堂和修道院
Gorges/Caves | Gorges/Grottes | Schluchten/ Höhlen | ущелья/ пещеры | Kløfter/Huler | Klyfta/ Grottor | Rotkoja/Luolia | 峡谷/洞穴 The area enables the individual hiker to explore the nature and the beauty of the county via routes that are unparalleled beauty. The most appropriate to inform the interested visitor is the Mountaineering Club of Chania. The E4 Path begins in the Pyrenees mountains across Greece, arrives at Kissamos, across Crete to Kato Zakros and finally arrives in Cyprus. As far as the track is part of the prefecture of Chania, it passes from coastal areas and the White Mountains. The main routes of the European path are the following : Kasteli Kissamou – Sfinari (Length: 22,5 km, Best season: Spring – Autumn) Sfinari – Chrysoskalitisa Monastery (Length: 32 km, Best season: Spring – Autumn) Chrysoskalitisa - Palaiochora (Length: 22 km, Best season: Spring – Autumn) Sougia – Agia Roumeli (Length: 13 km, Best Season: All year) Loutro - Fragokastelo (Length : 19,5 km, Best Season: All year) Sougia - Koustogerako-Omalos (Length: 24,5 km, Best season: Spring – Autumn) Agia Triada - Gouverneto – Katholiko (Route Difficulty: Very Easy, Route Duration: 2 Hours, Visit Period : All Year) Gorge of St Irene – Sfakia (Route Duration: 3 Hours, Route Length: 8 km Visit Period : All Year , Route Difficulty: Normal) Paleochora - Sougia (Route Difficulty: Easy, Route Length: 14,5 m Route Duration: 6 Hours, Visit Period : All Year) National Park of Samaria (Route Difficulty: Easy, Route Duration: 6 Hours Route Length: 16 km, Visit Period : May-October) Gavdos (Route Difficulty: Very Easy, Visit Period : May-October) Douliana – Gavalohori (Route Difficulty: Easy, Route Duration: 1 Hours, Visit Period : All Year) On the Summit of Kigilos (Route Difficulty: Normal, Route Duration: 7 Hours, Visit Period : All Year) Agia Roumeli - Agios Ioannis (Route Difficulty: Easy, Route Duration: 5 Hours, Visit Period : All Year) Gorge of Polyrrenia (Route Difficulty: Easy, Route Duration: 3 Hours, Visit Period : All Year) Sasalos-Makronas (Halase gorge) (Route Difficulty: Normal, Route Duration: 4 Hours )
The Gorge of Imbros in Sfakia Route Duration: 2 Hours, Route Length: 8 km The Gorge of Agia Irini in Selino Route Duration: 3 Hours, Route Length: 7.5 km The Gorge of Aradena in Sfakia Route Duration: 2.5 Hours, Route Length: 5.5 km The Gorge of Elygia The Gorge of Trypitis Route Duration: 8.5 Hours The Gorge of Diktamou Route Duration: 3.5 Hours The Gorge of Therisso or Eleutheriou Venizelou Route Length: 6 km The Gorge of Chalase or Sasalou Route Duration: 4 Hours The Gorge of Prasse Route Duration: 2 Hours The Gorge of Kavi or Iligga Route Duration: 3 Hours The Gorge of Asfendou Route Duration: 3 Hours The Gorge of Kalikrati Route Duration: 3 Hours The Gorge of Katholikou Route Duration: 0.5 Hours
The Holy Patriarchal and Stavropegic Monastery of Chrysopigi lies a short distance from the town of Chania on the route to Souda harbour. Operation Hours: 08.00-12.00 and 15.30-18.00 Telephone: (+30)2821091125, (+30)2821029840 The monastery of Agia Triada of Tzagarolon is one of the richest and most beautiful monasteries in Crete. It is built near the airport of Chania, in the position Tzobomylos of the Cape Melecha and at the foothills of Stavros Mount. The distance from Chania is only 15km. Gouverneto Monastery. The actual Monastery complex was built from 1537 till 1548. According to tradition, it was connected with miraculous St John the Hermit, and was used for the housing of the Saint’ s pilgrims. Telephone: (+30)2821063319
Mountain Shelters Kallergi Capacity: 45, Route Difficulty: Easy, Route Duration: 1 Hours Visit Period : April-October Svourikti - Holiopoulos Capacity: 20, Route Difficulty: Easy, Route Duration: 3 Hours Tavri Capacity: 40, Route Difficulty: Very Easy, Route Duration: 1.5 Hour, Route Length: 7.7 km Volikas Capacity: 30, Route Duration: 3 Hour Caves Cave of Panos or Lera The cave “Panos or Lera” is developed in Mount Vardies, at an altitude of 70m., in the settlement Stavros Kydonias. It consists of an “antechamber” and four rooms with chiselled cavities, which have been explained as places for the welcome of statues. Cave of Asfentos The cave “of Asfentos” is situated at the position”Skordolakia”, at the westeastern part of the beginning of the gorge of Asfentos . Cave of Agia Sofia The cave of “Agia Sofia” is at the western walls of the gorgo of Topolia, at a distance of 47 km from the city of Chania. It consists of two rooms on different levels.
Ancient Falasarna The site of the ancient Falassarna located on the western edge of Cap Gramvousa the west coast of Crete. The town was surveyed again in the 19th century by English tourists, who identified the village and closed the port. Ancient Lissos The ruins of Lissos are saved between Paleochora and Sougia. It
Venizelos Tombs One of the most popular spots offering a panoramic view of Chania are the Venizelos family tombs, a few kilometres east of the city, on the road to Akrotiri and the airport. Old Harbour Chania’s old Venetian Harbor is the most picruresque and world wide known site seen of the hole Crete. Lots of choices to drink your coffee, to have lunch or dinner in the restaurants or enjoy shopping time. Stavros Stavros is located on Akrotiri, only 13km from Chania, 3km from the airport and 10km from Souda harbour. One of the finest beaches for swimming. British Commonwealth War Cemetery in Souda Bay The War cemetery is a quiet and restful place for the allied forces who lost their lives here on the Battle of Crete in 1941. Aghia Marina Agia Marina is one of the most important tourist resorts of Chania. Great beach for swimming and lots of choices for shopping, eating and clubbing. MUNICIPALITY OF PLATANIAS Thodorou Just a few miles to the north west of the port of Chania. The island is a nature reserve and it is therefore forbidden to go ashore, except that is for one day a year (8 June), when visitors are allowed to take the path to the church and back in order to worship. Platanias The heart of tourism in western Crete. Everything can be found in Platanias... swimming, eating, clubbing, shopping. A “must” place to visit or stay. All days and all nights are different in Platanias and you will find out why. Maleme German Cemetery
Samaria Gorge If you come to Chania and you don’t pass through the Samara Gorge then your visit is just... incomplete. The Samariá Gorge is a National Park of Greece, a major tourist attraction of the island and a World’s Biosphere Reserve. A must for visitors to Crete is to complete the walk down the gorge from the Omalos plateau to Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea. The village of Samariá lies just inside the gorge. It was finally abandoned by the last remaining inhabitants in 1962 to make way for the park. MUNICIPALITY OF SFAKIA Frangokastello The castle of Frangokastello stands since centuries. It reminds of the Venetians, Turks and Greeks, battles and blood, slaughters and sacrifices. The legends are still alive, taking us in their own world and left the “Drosoulites”, visiting us again some magic mornings. Sfakia The south-eastern region of the Prefecture of Chania is called Municipality of Sfakia and includes the villages Hora Sfakion, Anopoli, Agios Ioannis, Agia Roumeli, Asfendou, Loutro, Patsianos, Skaloti, Impros, Askifou and Fragkokastello. The distamce to Chania is about 70 kilometres. Entire Sfakia is characterized by the natural beauty of wild mountainous landscape which is combined unique with the sea. Loutro The village was named by the baths that were found there. The water was coming from Anopoli. Between the old buildings that you can see there, there is also the goverment building that was used during the revolution at 1821. From Loutro you can visit the ruins of ancient Aradenas with the Byzantine church of archangel Michail and Anopolis. Perfect place for a weekend escape. Aghia Roumeli It is a coastal settlement in south-western Crete and it allocates a wide beach while the access is feasible only with boats from Hora Sfakion, via Loutro and from Palaiochora or Sougia, while the village does not allocate road access. Constitutes popular tourist destination because it is located at the southern entry of the Gorge of Samaria, the biggest gorge in Greece and one of the biggest in Europe with a length of 18 kilometres.
MUNICIPALITY OF APOKORONAS Kalyves Picturesque village located about 20 kilometres east of Chania, in one of the greenest areas of Greece. The village It is surrounded by wonderful sandy beaches with crystalline waters like Kalyves and Kiani Akti. Good place for shopping with lots of traditional tavernas. Just 3 km away is Almyrida, with traditional travernas to enjoy lunch after your swimming. Georgioupolis A resort village 43 km east of Chania, about 22 km west of Rethymno. Formerly a small fishing village, Georgioupolis is very much a tourist town now, with many cafés, tavernas and small hotels and apartment blocks. MUNICIPALITY OF KANDANOS-SELINO Sougia Located in a distance of 70 roughly km south-western of Chania. It is built in the ruins of the ancient Syias where mainly in the Roman and first Byzantine period people lived here. Saved ruins are vaulted graves and water reservoirs from the Roman period and a church from the 4th century with eminent mosaics. Nice beach where you can have free camping. Paleochora Located in the south-western part of the prefecture. The distance to Chania is about 70 kilometres. It is built on a peninsula between two beautiful bays where it is rained by the Lybian Sea and it is right to consider it the “Nymph of the Lybian Sea” and “Land of the sun”. The movement in the region is high in summertime, on one side from the excursionists choosing it as the harbour of departure to the Island of Gavdos, Sougia, Agia Roumeli, Loutro and Sfakia and return from the Samaria Gorge, on the other from the holiday-makers that select it as a place of their summer vacations.Palaiochora has all the benefits the visitor needs as banks, doctors, supermarket, drugstores, police, post, Hellenic Telecommunications Organization, port authority, custom, cinema, bars, disco, and rented cars.
reserve. On the mainland the 17th century Chrysoskalitissa Monastery is approximately 5 km from the island. One of the best places for swimming in the whole world MUNICIPALITY OF KISSAMOS Falassarna May be the best beach on earth, as awarded by its visitors. The place to be for swimming. Also, don’t miss the great party the first weekend of August. Gramvousa-Balos At the north western point of Crete you will find Gramvousa, a small island with an impregnable castle, a fortress, a masterpiece of the 16th century, and Balos, the unique lagoon of Crete, with its blue green waters, it pink sandy beach and famous shells! An impressive and unique environment of steep rocks and cliffs, an immense blue sea and hidden sandy beaches, and the serene lagoon of Balos, combines with the remains of the long lasting history of the region: monasteries, churches and the imposing castle of Imeri Gramvousa. MUNICIPALITY OF GAVDOS Gavdos is a small island which is located 26 naval miles (48 kilometres) southern of Crete and it’s extent is 27 square kilometres. It is the most southern Greek and simultaneously European point with population of 98 residents. Perfect for a daily cruise.
handicrafts can also be found there. In the old Jewish neighbourhood there is the synagogue and on Halidon street the folklore museum (Cretan house) and the church of St. Frangiskos. The church hosts the town’s archaeological museum and houses treasures from the Minoan to the Hellenistic period. Opposite there is the Metropolitan temple of Isodia (representation of the Virgin Mary) with its exquisite hagiographies and close to that are the old Turkish baths. In the area of Sintrivani, around the homonymous square, there is the mosque of Kiuchouk Hasan (1645) and opposite that the quay with the Venetian lighthouse. A little further away, 7 out of the original 17 docks (Neoria) can be found (14th-16th cent. AD). Eye-capturing is the Great Arsenal, which today is used as a convention and exhibition centre. Along the harbour, small cafeterias and restaurants create an inviting atmosphere. On the hill of Kasteli there are still parts of the old Rector’s palace and its court and the engraving on a lintel over a door
May - September: Athletic events in Nea Kydonia which include: Beach volley Beach Soccer - Beach Handball and racket games. July - August - September: - Cultural Summer Events of the municipality of Chania. It includes music and stage performances at the theatre of Eastern Trench, Public Garden, Venizelio music school, Park of Peace and Friendship and other events in several neighbourhoods of
Monastery of Pasinos. It is a complex of monasteries built during the Venetian rule (16th century). It architectural style is western, the church being placed in the centre of the complex.
was the port city of Dorian Elyros. It fl ourished in the Hellinistic, Roman and the fi rst Vyzantine period and destroyed by the Saracens Arabs. It also issued its own currency, as Lissos. Ancient Tara (St. Roumeli) The ruins of the ancient city Taras found at south coast of Crete near the village of Agia Roumeli. The city fl ourished particularly during the Roman era. They found the remains of a temple, possibly dedicated to Artemis and Apollo. Souda’s Castle The castle is built on the islet of Souda, and protected the port of Souda and Chania. It occupies almost the entire island. Built in 1715 and surrendered to the Ottomans in 1715. On February 14 the Greek fl ag was raised, lowering the Turkish and giving the signal that there is now the Greek sovereignty over
(1860), the church of St. Magdalea (1903) and the church of Evangelismou. From later periods the following places are of interest: the manor “Villa Koundourou”, a workshop of fine arts and a youth centre, the municipal park (1870) with its clock, the market (built 1913, cross-shaped building with hundreds of small shops), the park of peace and friendship of people, the court house, the prefecture, the Venizelion School of Music, the Historic Archives Museum, the War Museum and the Museum of Chemistry. In the neighbourhoods outside the walls there are many neoclassical buildings with beautiful gardens which smell of hyacinth, honey suckle and rose trees. At the border of the town with the cape (Akrotiri) are the graves of Eleftherios and Sofocles Venizelos. The town of Chania, the first capital of Crete, kept its historical heritage of so many centuries almost unaffected. Its atmosphere attracted scientists, philosophers, poets and artists of different origins and it became a cultural centre.
the town. - Cultural summer events are also organised by the municipalities of Kisamos, Apokoronas and Kandanos-Selino. June: - Cherries Festival in Karanou. - 24 June: Festivity of St. Ioannis Klidonas, in Fres, Akrotiri, Perivolia, Therisso, Vamvakopoulo. - 29 June - 6 July: Naval week festival. July: - Festival of Kalitsouni cheese pie, in Kandanos.
Religious events | Evénements religieux | Religiöse Veranstaltungen Религиозные события | Religiøse begivenheder | Religiøse begivenheter Religiösa evenemang | Uskonnollisiin tilaisuuksiin | 宗教活动
Asi Gonia, St. George’s Day, April 23rd or after Easter Day: A big festival. All the shepherds of the area bring their animals to the mass in order to be blessed, then they milk them and distribute the milk to the pilgrims. Agios Ioannis Sfakion, St John’s Feast, May 8th: Traditional festival of Sfakia. Azogyre, The Holy Fathers’ Feast, October 7th: In the beautiful village with the visitable impressive cave of the Holy Fathers. Elos, Agios Dikaios,May 6th: Extraordinary view and a unique fair. Lissos, St Kyrikos, July 15th: The pilgrims start arriving ancient Lissos on foot or in boats from Sougiaγια early in the afternoon of the previous day. A real fair of Selino in a mythical place.
Sougia, Harey, St. Antony 1-2 of July: Unique traditional fair at the seaside small church which is situated in Harey. The route on foot from through the E4 path that lead from Sougia to Agia Roumeli lasts two hours with the unique background of the Lybian sea and piney slopes. It is possible to go there also by boat from Sougia. Overnight stay outdoor.
Elafonissi When the weather is fine it is possible to walk to the island through the shallow water. The island is a protected nature
reminds us of the existence of Venetian Archives. Near there, the excavation of ancient Kydonia and the ruins of the church of St. Maria of Mirakoli (1615) are located. At the “stivanadika”, which is still characterised by Eastern features, one can buy leather goods. Next to that is the building of Chrisostomos and the new public Art Gallery. In the old Turkish neighbourhood Splantzia is the square of the former monastery οf St. Nicholas (1204) with a bell-tower and minaret. The small church of the period of enlightenment’s of St. Rokkos (1630) can also be found there. Near that is the church of St. Anargyroi (16th cent. AD) with its priceless hagiographies and St. Catherine’s church. Outside the walls, to the east of the old town, we come across Koum-Kapi where during the last years of the Turkish occupation, Beduins built a village. Today the area is a favourite meeting place for young people. In the neighbourhood of Halepa there is the palace of Prince George, the house of Eleftherios Venizelos, the French School
Beginning of summer: Venizelia - Track events at the National Stadium of Chania.
Sembronas, Apopigadi, St. John’s, June 24th: One of the feasts, that take place on a very high location, with an incredible view.
Culture | Kultur | Kультура | Kulttuuri | 文化 A first-time visitor to Chania is surprised by the great number of buildings and monuments on which can be found traces of its great history and rich civilisation. The old town, on and around the hill of Kasteli, was built upon the ruins of Minoan Kydonia and is surrounded by the Byzantine wall, the Venetian wall and the sea. The Minoan civilisation left behind grand tombs, interesting ceramics and objects. During its occupation by the Venetians and the Turks, people of different nationality, culture and religion co-existed. Christians (Catholic and Orthodox), Jews and Muslims, have left discernible traces and produced particularly interesting creations. In the neighbourhood of Topanas with its narrow paved streets, the visitor meets Venetian manors with elaborately decorated facades and Turkish houses with architectural protrusions. There we can find Fort Firkas, the Naval Museum and the church of San Salvatore of the Francheskan Monks (15th - 17th cent. AD) which hosts the Byzantine collection of Chania. The collection of ΙLΑΕΚ and many shops offering traditional
The Monastery of Saint George in Karydi (in Apokoronas Province) is located about 2km east of Vamos village. The monastery was abandoned for many years but was restored in 1996 and today it is operating normally.
The Holy Monastery of Partenon or Life-Giving Spring was founded by the Bishop of Kisamos & Selinon Anthimos Leledakis in 1905-1910. It was renovated between 1962 and 1965, by Bishop Irineos Galanakis. Early Christian Basilica at Almyrida Apokoronou. It is an early Christian three-aisled basilica of the second half of the 6th century. The church of St George in the centre of Kournas, a settlement with interesting folk architecture. It was built at the end of the 12th century. the island of Crete. Archaeological site of ancient Anopolis The archaeological site of ancient Anopolis located 87 km south of Chania. Anopolis was an independent city during the classical times and fl ourished during the Roman and Byzantine times. Firkas Castle Castle Firkas was built in the 16th century by the Venetians to protect the city of Chania. There Venizelos declared the offi cial union of Crete with Greece. Today it hosts the Maritime Museum and a small theater. Intzedin Castle Located 14 km east of Chania. Has been characterized as his-
torical monument. Built in 1872 in the position of the tower was built in 1646 by the Turks, who drove the Venetians. The name comes from the name of the son of Sultan Abdul Aziz Intzedin. Has been used as a prison for political prisoners, among them which has been the El. Venizelos. During the dictatorship of Pangalos many dissidents jailed, and when the dictatorship fell, Pangalos was imprisoned there too. Finally, from the isolation rooms of Yaros, in 1948, the fi rst communist political prisoners were moved there.
Ancient Polirinia The ancient city was Polirinia in place of the village Polirinia Kissamos, 49 km west of Chania. At the top of the hill was the citadel of which was T-shaped, from where the view was immense, from Crete to the Libyan Sea, which stretched the realm.
Cultural events | Evénements culturels | Kulturelle Veranstaltungen | Культурные мероприятия | Kulturarrangementer | Kulturelle begivenheder | Kulturevenemang | Kulttuuritapahtumat | 文化活动 May: - Celebration of the battle of Crete. It includes events commemorating those who were killed and several cultural events. - “Koresia” athletic games Canoe kayak at Kournas Lake.
We propose... you choose | Nous vous proposons ... vous choisissez | Schlagen wir vor, Sie wählen ... | мы предлагаем ... вы выбираете Vi foreslår ... du vælger | Vi föreslår ... du väljer | Foreslår vi ... du velger | Ehdotamme ... valitset | 我们建议...你选择 The cemetery is 3km south up the winding paved road. The 4,465 men buried here fell in the Battle of Crete in May of 1941. The Germans landed at the small airport of Maleme when they attacked Crete.
The monastery of Panagia Chrisoskalitissa is located 72km south of Chania, very close to the magnifi cent lagoon of Elafonissi. It operates as a nunnery and reminds of a fortress, perched on a 35m high rock with boundless sea views.
St George of Mythimna - Kisamos. The single-room, vaulted church of St George in the archeological site of Methymna, near Drapania of Kisamos, was built during the fi rst half of the 15th century, in the place of a late Roman Bath.
Places to visit | Lieux à visiter | Orte zu besuchen | Места для посещения | Steder å besøke | Steder at besøge | Sevärdheter | Käyntikohteita | 景点
Ancient Aptera This site is located 15 km South-east of Chania, near the village Megala Chorafi a. The strategic location of the city with two ports, Minoa (modern Marathi) and Kissamos (near Kalives today) at the entrance of the natural bay, which guaranteed the possibility to control the movement of trade, boosted its growth.
Gorges The Gorge of Samaria Route Length: 18 km, Route Duration: 7 Hours, Visit Period : May-October
MUNICIPALITY OF CHANIA Municipal Market The Municipal Market of Chania, the large building of 4000 square meters in a surrounding area of 17.200 square meters, is the “heart” of the city. It is an original building that, apart from a business activity center, also provides a concrete image of the ancient Greek marketplace. Great for shopping tradiotional Cretan products.
Katholiko monastery is located 20km east of Chania, near the northern shores of Cape Akrotiri. It is located near the exit of the gorge Avlaki, at a short distance from the sea.
Therisso, Assumption of the Mother of God, August 15th: In the beautiful village where Eleftherios Venizelos declared the revolution of 1905.
- Naval week in the old harbour and every second year in Palaiochora and Georgioupolis. - 21-28 July: Elafonisia - Municipality of Kissamos. Including memorial service at the monument of Elafonisi, athletic games, performances, festivity in honour of the elderly and traditional treat. - 26 July: “Promotion of Kisamos” - Club, Grambousa pilgrimage excursion from the port of Kisamos to Balos and to
the island of Grambousa. - 30 July: “Pottery Festival” in Nohia.
- 30-31 July: Wine festival in Vouves. August: - First Sunday of August: Blessing of the fruit of the earth at the Monastery of Archangel Michael (Rotonda) Kato Episkopi. - 8-9 August: Wine festival in Vouves. - 1-10 August: Venetian Harbour of Chania photography exhibition for Chania Music Tradition. - 16 August: Honey Festival in Afrata. September: - 1-10 September: Sardine festival in Nea Chora and in Souda. - 27 September: World Day of Tourism. Festive events at the old harbour of Chania. End of October or beginning of November: - Chestnut festival in Prases and Elos.
<< The little sea village of Loutro, just 30 minutes from Chora Sfakion by ANENDYK Ferries. Excellent choice for a weekend “escape”. Great beach and good tavernas all over the place.
Sfakia, Thymiani Panagia, last Sunday of May. Chrysoskalitissa, the Assumption of the Virgin, August 15th: At the beautiful monastery, which is a real «balcony» to the Lybian Sea a famous festival takes place. Frangokastello, St. Nikitas’, September 15th: Big festival during which riding races take place. August 6th, the Transfiguration: Ksirosterni, Tzitzife, Karres of Kissamos, Sassalo August 15th the Assymption of the Virgin: Voulgaro Panagia of the Summit, Kolympari Gonia, Pemonia, Fre, Eksopolis, Litsarda, Alikampos, Kefala, Kalikrati, Koustogerako August 29th,John the Precursor’s: Rodopou Gionas, Douliana, Stylos, Kournas September 8th, Birth of the Mother of Christ: Gavalohori, Tzitzife, Sassalo September 14th, Feast ofthe Holy Cross: Nippos, Rodovani September 15th St. Nikitas’: Kampia
Imeri Gramvousa. There is an old ^^ shipwreck of a small cargo ship dating from 1968. << Everyone who comes to Crete is going to Platanias, the most famous place in Chania Prefecture. Full of tourists every summer, with sandy beaches, lots of stores, night clubs, restaurants and cafes.
CHANIA... THEN (a photographic journey through time by G. Fantakis-St. Aggelakis/ART STUDIO, 18 Dimokratias str., +30 28210 43150)
Cretan flora and fauna | Flore et la faune crétois | Kretische Flora und Fauna | Kритские флора и фауна | Kretiske flora og fauna Kretensiske flora og fauna | Kretensiska flora och fauna | Kreetalainen kasvisto ja eläimistö | 克里特岛动植物 The climate and t he conf igurat ion of t he l and ma ke t he count y of C hani a a p aradis e for t hous ands of pl ants and anima ls. L i lys of t he s e a (p ancrat ium mar it imum), l avd ano (l avd anum), c ycl amen (c ycl amen cret ic um), Cret an tu lips (tu lip a cret ic a), maple (acer cret ic us). The endemic and unique ditt any (or iganum dic t amum), ma lot ira (f ider it is cret ic a) and matzourana (or iganum maiorana), are me dicina l b oi ling pl ants w hich are abund ant. On t he pl ain of Oma los you c an f ind st amnagat hi (ci hor ium spinosum). Dr ie d or f resh ly c ut, t hes e sp e ci a l me dicina l herbs
Santrivani Square
Venetian Old Harbour
c an b e found in t he Public Market or lo c a l shops. O ver 1742 unique Cret an pl ants c an a ls o b e found, 10% of w hich exist on ly in t he count y of C hani a. The proud Cret an b e ast (c apra aegag r us cret ic a) lives f re ely on ly in t he Samar i a G orge. There and els e w here, you c an s e e Cret an e ag les (aqui l a chr ys aetos) and p ar t r idges (a le c tor is chukar). Fer rets, skun ks, we as els, hares, haw ks etc. c an a ls o b e s e en in op en pl aces. There is a ls o an ende avour to prote c t an are a on t he nor t h shores of t he count y esp e ci a l ly for t he tur t les (c arett a-c arett a) t hat live t here.
Dimokratias str.
Conference tourism | Le tourisme de conférence | Konferenztourismus | Конференц-туризм Conference turisme | Konferensturism | Conference matkailu | 会议旅游 St. Sofia Foundation - Agii Pantes Tel.: (+30) 2821057043 Archbishop’s House
General Tzanakakis str.
Halidon str.
Orthodox Academy of Crete in Kolympari Tel.: (+30) 2824022060 Fax: (+30) 2824022245 Email: oac@otenet.gr Http: www.oac.gr Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Chania Tel: (+30) 28210 35081, 35080 E-mail: baouraki@maich.gr και confer@maich.gr http://confer.maich.gr Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/
Cultural Centre Of Chania 70, A. Papandreou Street, Hania Tel.: (+30) 28213 44400-4 Cultural Center of the Metropolis - Hania Tel.: (+30) 2821027808 Fax: (+30) 2821027823 Email: imka@grecian.net Http: www.imka.gr Centre of Architecture of Mediterranean (Megalo Arsenali) Tel.: (+30) 2821040201 Fax: (+30) 2821027184 Http: www.kam-arsenali.gr
Information | Informationen | информация | Tiedotus Informasjon | 信息 Emergencies 112, 100, (+30)2821028746/25791 Police (+30)2821025700 Tourist Police (+30)2821028750/25931 Ambulance Service 166 Hospital of Chania (+30)2821022000-9 Naval Hospital of Souda (+30)2821082538/82414 Gavrilakis Clinic (+30)2821070800 Kapakis Clinic (+30)2821052688 Tsepetis Clinic (+30)2821027633 Health Centre of Vamos (+30)2825022580 Health Centre of Kandanos (+30)2823022550 Health Centre of Kissamos (+30)2822022222 Fire Brigade 199 Airport (+30)2821063171/63264 Tourist Information Centre (+30)2821092943/92624
Tourist Information Centre of the Municipality of Chania, (+30)2821036155/36204-6 Weather Forecast 1448 Οrthodox Cathedral (+30)2821043802 Catholic Church (+30)2821093443 Evangelist Church (+30)2821022365 Synagogue (+30)2821086286 Mountain Rescue Club (+30)2821044647/44359 Foreign Embassies: Great Britain (+30)2810 224012 Denmark (+30)2810 243714 Finland (+30)2810 284270 Norway (+30)2810 225991 Sweden (+30)2821060605
Transportation | Transport | Tранспортировка | Kuljetus | 运输
Band playing music just outside Papadakis Patisserie
The Old Town Hall at Santrivani Square
The Halepa Neighborhood
- Airlines: a. OLYMPIC AIRWAYS, 88 Tzanakaki str., tel. 80111 44444, airport: 28210 63818/63633/66088 (www.olympicair.com). b. AEGEAN AIRLINES, 12 El. Venizelou str., tel. 80111 20000, 28210 51100, airport: 28210 63366 (www.aegeanair.com). - Sea Lines: a. ANEK LINES, Sof Venizelou sqr., tel. 28210 27500 (www.anek.gr). Souda to/from Pireas daily. Ticket office (Souda port) tel. 28210 80050/1.
AND... NOW!!! (same places but different time by P. Mpouzis)
Santrivani Square
Venetian Old Harbour
Dimokratias str.
Archbishop’s House
General Tzanakakis str.
Halidon str.
No band playing music today, but our harbour is always magic
The Old Town Hall at Santrivani Square
The Halepa Neighborhood
b. ANENDΥΚ (20.30 Promitheos str. VIO.PA Souda), tel. 28210 95511/95530 (www.anendyk.gr), e-mail: anendyk@anendyk.gr, info@anendyk.gr . Sea links between the south ports of the county. - Port Authorities: a. Chania, tel. 28210 98888, e-mail: chania@chg.gr b. Souda, tel. 28210 89240, e-mail: souda@chg.gr c. Kissamos, tel. 28220 22024, d. Paleochora, tel. 28230 41214, e. Chora Sfakion, tel. 28250 91292. e-mail: xsfakion@chg.gr
- Local buses (blue): Departures from Municipal Market sqr. and 1866 sqr. to all districts of the town and surrounding areas, Akrotiri, Souda (port), beaches, etc. Tel. 28210 93345/98115.
- Car and motorbike rentals: There are many international and domestic companies. Information at the Tourist Information Centre of the Greek National Tourism Organisation, 40 Kriari str., tel. 28210 92943/92624.
- Long distance buses (green): Main Bus Station (KTEL), Kydonias str. To Rethimno-Iraklio, Vrisses-Chora Sfakion, Kasteli, Εlafonissi, Kandanos-Paleochora, Sougia, Omalos-Samaria etc. Also to Thessaloniki (via the port of Pireas). Tel. 28210 93306/93052.
- Taxi: Tel. 18300, 28210 94300 (service for disabled people too). - Aeroclub of Chania: Magical flights around the county and the Aegean islands by qualified pilots (or using your own license) in Cessna 4-seat aircraft. Tel. 28210 27272 (www.aer.gr).
The Mystery of Scotland’s Ben MacDhui by Gil Holton
S cotland a land steeped in his-
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news & articles
tory, traditions and with its mystical charm draws visitors from all over the globe. Scottish people have beliefs in the supernatural and mythical worlds and with all the castles and open land of mountains and Glens legends and tales tend to thrive. The highland mountain ranges are wild with stunningly magnificent scenery and are wonderful places for walkers, climbers and outdoor enthusiasts to experience the sanctuary and power of nature. Ben MacDhui is the highest peak in the Cairngorms (4296 feet (1309 metres)), and the second highest peak ck on li in Scotland. c r s .g re new epost for mo ttp://cret Many who have walked h or climbed in this area of the Cairngorms have experienced a feeling of fear and subsequent panic with some having seen a tall creature that has become known as Am Fear Liath Mòr (The Big Grey Man) of Ben MacDhui. As early as the 1700’s stories have circulated of an unknown entity roaming Ben MacDhui. It was not until 1925 that The Big Grey man gained any notoriety outside Scotland. At the 27th Annual General Meeting of the Cairngorm Club in Aberdeen a world renowned mountaineer and Fellow of the Royal Society, Professor John Norman Collie (1859 – 1942) recalled an experience he’d had earlier in 1891. He said to his audience that he was alone and descending from the summit of Ben MacDhui in misty weather conditions. He could hear his own footsteps but suddenly he became aware of what appeared to be other eerie footsteps but of larger strides crunching behind him. He checked for any visible signs but because of the poor visibility he could see nothing. He continued his descent and as he did so, so did the other unknown footsteps. At this point he became uneasy and then fearful and rapidly descended the 4 to 5 miles to Rothiemurchus forest where his fear eventually subsided. Collie is quoted as saying to his audience “Whatever you make of it I do not know, but there is something very queer about the top of Ben MacDhui and I will not go back there again myself, I know.” Collie’s encounter on Ben MacDhui gained worldwide publicity. Even though Collie was a well-respected, level headed and accomplished pioneer in mountaineering his story attracted the usual skeptical reviews. However Collie’s story was the catalyst that prompted other people that had remained quiet through fear of ridicule to come forward and reveal similar experiences. Peter Densham was an experienced mountaineer and during WW2 he led a team responsible for aircraft recovery and rescue in the Cairngorms.
After the war he was employed in forestry work. On two occasions he experienced some kind of psychic phenomena whist on Ben MacDhui. In one incident he was on a recovery mission with his team member, a Richard Frere. They had arrived at a cairn (manmade stack of stones used as a marker) when at some distance from Frere he heard Frere start talking to someone he thought was on the other side of the cairn. Densham was drawn into the conversation when it suddenly dawned on both of them there was no third party there. On another occasion Densham was on his own on Ben MacDhui taking a rest and eating a snack and the weather had turned misty. The nature of the terrain is known for producing unusual noises but Densham became acutely cold and noticed that feeling of fear emanating on the back of his neck. He heard crunching noises and was suddenly overcome by apprehension and uncertainty so much so that he immediately ran down the mountain. Densham always maintained that Ben MacDhui appeared to have some psychic phenomena and in his words ‘the most mysterious mountain I’ve ever been on’. There are also many tales from those who have been out on Ben MacDhui with their dog. One person was out with his Scottish terrier on a moonlit night. His dog was scurrying around a few yards ahead when suddenly the terrier came scampering back to heal and would not leave its owner side. On reaching a stalkers hut the
terrier crouched by the rear door trembling. What had it sensed? From that day forth the terrier could not be persuade to pass the same spot as the ‘incident’ occurred. Wendy Wood (1892 – 1981) was a gifted artist, sculptor and writer and one of the founder members of the Scottish Patriots that has now become the Scottish Nationalist Party. In one of her many books ‘The Secret of Spey’ she describes a personal experience on Ben MacDhui. It was winter time and as she approached the pass of Lairig Ghru she heard a voice that she described as being of ‘gigantic resonance’ and reminiscent of Gaelic. Searching the area she could find no one and she too became apprehensive then very nervous as to some possible danger and quickly moved away. As with Collie’s experience she could hear her own footsteps and those of larger strides crunching behind her. She moved on quickly until reaching some remote dwellings at Whitewell. An article in ‘The Scots Magazine’ (June 1958) related the experience on Ben MacDhui by Alexander Tewnion a naturalist and mountaineer. It took place in 1943 when he was climbing Ben MacDhui. Tewnion was hunting for game and was carrying a revolver side arm. As he was returning from the mountain by the Corrie Etchachnan track he felt that feeling of unease when suddenly a strange shape loomed up and started to charge at him. Immediately he reacted by firing his revolver 3 times but whatever it was
still kept coming. His instinct made him turn and run down the track until reaching Glen Derry in what he described as ‘reaching Glen Derry in a time that I have never bettered’. This strange phenomena, the legend of Am Fear Liath Mòr, is a footprint in the sands of time and well entrenched in Gaelic legend. Affleck Gray (1907 -1996) a native of the Cairngorm area was a daily kilt wearer and from the age of 12 he explored his beloved Cairngorms. He was a meticulous historian and wrote a well re-searched book, ‘The Big Grey Man of Ben MacDhui’. In it he sets out the timelines and accounts of numerous witnesses even the most bizarre accounts are not exempt. Sightings although rare have usually been described by witnesses as a tall being surround in a glow of light. The common factors in these sightings have been certain atmospheric conditions and location that can be attributed to an optical illusion known as the Brocken Spectre. If the sun is low and an observer is looking down from a ridge or peak into mist or fog the light projects the observers shadow through the mist. The optical illusion is a magnified shadow and the unusual shape is caused by water droplets, density and movement of the mist or cloud. The ‘being’ is often said to be surrounded by the glowing rings of coloured light that appear directly opposite the sun when sunlight meets a cloud of uniformly-sized water droplets. The experiences of those who sense fear and hear unusual footsteps without any visual cannot be dismissed so easily. Some researchers have named such a fear factor as ‘Mountain Panic’ caused by the feeling of being in wild and desolate places with a realization of our fragility at the mercy of nature. Nature can play amazing tricks on the human mind but as with lots of unusual phenomena there could be other explanations especially if animals such as dogs also become fearful. There is little room for doubt that reliable and sensible people really have quite separately had very similar and very odd experiences on the top of Ben MacDhui that can only be categorized as paranormal as science to date has not proved otherwise. So the legend of The Big Grey Man of Ben MacDhui lives on. For an armchair critic that does not believe in such phenomena it would be reasonable for him/her to suggest that if you experience a sighting you calmly write it off as the Brocken Spectre. As for those experiences where the body senses danger, hairs on your neck rising, sounds of big stomping footsteps or your dog becomes scared do you ignore them and carry on without any concern ……………or turn FEAR into Forget Everything And Run?!!!!!
“IDEAS UNLIMITED” - exhibition at Sabbionara Gallery, Chania from July 15 to 23
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culture
Hercules Papadakis is a man for all seasons. While prejudice and petty restrictions proliferate, he responds with openness and warmth to nature, the plight of people under stress, the talent of others and to potential awaiting expression. Artist, photographer, playwright and poet, his feelings flow with unpretentious relevance through his works in the exhibition IDEAS UNLIMITED at the Sabbionara Gallery, Hania from July 15 to 23. He fearlessly defies limitation. He sees society shrinking – free thought, action and idea prone to wither in the wake of increasing constriction. But he is creatively positive. “I hope the exhibition shows how ideas can be unlimited and expressed in many ways and mediums. Ideas have no borders,” he says. Also showing in this exhibition, with equally positive interpretations, are Maria Malaxianaki (Ma.Ma) with works inspired by dance, and Linda Talbot, ck on ws cli st.gr e n e r whose series “Succubus” is for mo p://cretepo htt based on the mythical demon-woman who seduced and demolished men. The work of Hercules – an Athenian now living in Hania, challenges the cossetting of convention with mixed media, skilfully recycled and constructed. He explains, “Since I was a child I liked to mix materials and make new compositions with natural elements, collecting rocks, dried plants and shells from the sea.” In this exhibition he shows “Thalassa” – his series prompted by the movement of the sea. He says, “I chose this after being inspired during one of my meditation weeks, living outdoors. This is the first of my “elements” trilogy because of the sea’s symbolism; change, liquidity, movement and unpredictability. This was my first idea because my country and the whole world lives in this situation more and more. And because of this symbolism, I decided to follow it with “Sky and Earth”, then “Wind and Fire.” I’d love these to be three dimensional and I intend to use natural materials for these too.” He uses his photographs with found objects, from clothing and stones to glass and bits of sponge. As a graphic designer, he makes computerised changes to his photos and designs but only marginally because he loves the precision of nature. Most beaches in this series are found
by Niall Finn
Minding your Ps and Qs A window seat – I like the view But two hours in I need the loo. So there I am in seat 4F 4E, however, is quite deaf. I ask, as one is wont to do, “Could you please kindly let me through?” She seems to be ignoring me But then a small black wire I see Because she’s one who flying fears There’s calming music in her ears. But then success! I’m in the aisle!
around Hania and many works use frames within the composition to focus on one aspect. He explains, “I make some frames from natural materials. Others are photographed by me and put through a graphic process.” In his other series “Beyond Limits” one delicate frame notably accompanies a sea daffodil. “This was an old frame I found in a rubbish tip. I photographed it because I liked it.” Outstanding in this second series is a flying figure in a swirl of colour by the sea. “This is a woman dancer, lifted on her partner’s arms. I loved the freedom of the movement and I decided to make a combination with the freedom of the sea waves. It contains love, trust and balance,” he says. He considers the role of art in changing people’s outlook. “Our societies through the ages have been trained and tested in various conditions. I’ve seen how this acquired knowledge has led to limitations. I believe art can give people the experience of unlimited possibilities and exemplifies the ways of expression. It is a release but it takes time.” He also gives workshops on personal development, which tackle these issues. And he belongs to Hania’s International Poetry Society which explores personal and social issues. Hercules designs and makes clothes too, from T shirts to fine shawls. Once he designed a set of men’s underwear and experimented with T shirts using leather, buttons and string. “I use all kinds of fabric. I use economical materials, re-using and recycling. It’s important they have already completed one cycle and I give them another with certain interventions. I print my artworks on them so one can enjoy wearing them. I do this on furniture too.” Concluding, he says, “ I love nature, its expressions and the effect it has on people and their relationships. So in my art I’m involved with the blessing that everyone may receive by observing nature and in my workshops I study the relationship of man with himself, his body and others, as well as the physical health that comes from the harmonious flow of all these.” In Maria’s work, women are dominant, doubtful or suggesting disdain, trapped in compositions that tease and intrigue. Where one figure might end, another emerges within an interwoven pattern that is tireless; lilting into ultimate cohesion.
A queue has built up though meanwhile And when a few have come and gone The seatbelt sign gets switched back on. I guess it makes some sort of sense That with a little turbulence My usual calm and accurate aim Might not, in fact, be quite the same. So with a strangled little curse The same procedure in reverse: The young man sitting in 4D Must shift the laptop on his knee And step out past me, while his mate Once more receives the message late. So now I’m sure, as eggs is eggs,
All imagery is linked by an intricate language of line. Maria is an excellent exponent of Japanese Butoh dance, which influences her art. In paint and pen, her works are untitled yet eloquent, whether conceived in bright colour or starkly black and white. The exploratory potential of line leads to rhythmic complexities and potent visual challenge. She is spontaneous yet disciplined; images undulate and weave with emotion and fleeting thought. Combinations of line and clearly or dimly perceived form, may be ambivalent, sometimes humorous, interacting with the viewer’s imagination. This is not a statement of the obvious but the exploration of enigmatic exchange with hints of dance enhanced by her use of teasing tangents. And, appropriately each work flows with the lyricism of her stage craft. She begins with an instinctive wash of colour. “I have no plan for a picture,” she admits. “I start with shapes and an image instantly appears. It might be a figure, a house, an animal. I follow the shape and it changes. I follow that so it changes again. Sometimes I leave a picture unfinished for months, come back too it and it changes yet again.” Each segment of design is assiduously patterned; spirals, loops, geometric elements, swirling in an obsessively decorative dimension. “I work basically for pleasure but sometimes in a meditative mood,” she explains. There are two works consisting of countless gold and silver squares, an evolution of repetitive calm yet imbued with life. She says,“When I’m working like this I am totally in the moment. I’m unaware of past and future – completely involved. It brings me to a place where there is no distance or time or space. When I dance I’m in the same frame of mind.” She has the gift of combining originality, tenacious technique and lyricism, creating a powerful personal dimension. Maria will give a special performance of Butoh during the exhibition.
It’s better just to cross my legs. ********** On a roll during a stroll There was a gentle swishing sound But not a soul, no one around That little lane in Armenoi Was empty, far as I could see. But I could hear the swishing still And not so faint, from up the hill. Then there it was at last in sight! Small and round and very bright Exuding dignity and poise – The author of the funny noise.
The Succubus was not a temptation to be entertained. Dreamed up by misogynists in the medieval church, she could glibly seduce men, only to maliciously destroy. In her collection of collages “Succubus”, Linda Talbot depicts her in many guises, from an apparition in a rose garden to a wandering woman of the desert. She may appear in a swirl of clamourous colour to lure a lone walker. She throws an orgy in a swimming pool. She demolishes an unsuspecting anatomist. She is often marred by some irregularity; the lack of a finger, different coloured eyes, sudden invisibility and one of Linda’s has a weird “familiar” (as a witch had a black cat). She is irresistible but somehow “off centre”. There will be special evening events at the exhibition and other artists will contribute works. Medicine will be collected for Doctors of the World and food for Hania’s Social Kitchen. Proceeds from prints and cards will go to a fund to help refugees and others in need, including The Ark of the World, a shelter for mothers and children in Athens. And there will be a photographic competition – visitors are invited to photograph the event or art work they feel best expresses “Ideas Unlimited”. Prizes include a dinner for two at the Colombo restaurant and treatment at Al Hammam, Hania. The photographs will be shown in a future exhibition. The opening party for “Ideas Unlimited” is on Friday July 15. Linda Talbot
From round the corner, off some tree An orange rolled on down to me At stately speed, that hadn’t grown For friction with each tiny stone Had balanced out the steeper slope. So did I try to catch it? Nope! I would have once, with youthful ease But now my geriatric knees Are not so keen on stooping low And so I simply watched it go On down to where I saw it meet An intersecting cobbled street Into the mouth of which it veered And then in darkness disappeared. There is a dip, I hope it slowed To not get juiced out on the road.
×áíéþôéêá íÝá
e-news right on time
ôï áëçèéíü ñáäéüöùíï ôçò ðüëçò
7 small bedroom tips and tricks The big house trend is over. More
and more people are considering compact homes in favor of large mansions. Smaller homes are easier to maintain, heat, and cool. However, less square footage also means less living space. If you have a small bedroom, read on for some small bedroom tips and tricks that will leave you with a perfect place to relax and sleep.
4. Get Creative with Storage After you’ve removed any unnecessary clutter, you’ll want to think of
creative ways to store necessary items out of sight. The backside of a closet or bedroom door is the perfect place for a hanging organizer or shallow shelving unit. Add specialty hangers to your closet to store belts, ties, or scarves. Consider using accessory trays in your dresser drawers for organizing smaller items. A hanging jewelry box or cabinet is the perfect place to store jewelry.
underneath. Depending on for mo re news clic k on your needs, you can use this http://cre tepost.gr space for a desk or work station. Or, consider a sofa for lounging, reading, or watching television. If you don’t have high ceilings, you can still purchase a raised bed and utilize the shorter space underneath for storage. Or, consider raising an existing bed with adjustable bed risers that can be purchased online.
5. Consider a Loft Bed A kid’s bedroom in blue tones. If you have enough ceiling height, a loft bed is a great solution for a small bedroom. Raising your bed off the floor gives you valuable floor space
6. Choose Your Colors Wisely When decorating a small bedroom, it’s best to stick to a limited and light color palette. Bright white is a great starting point, however, if white is not your thing consider light cool colors. Cool colors make walls recede and cause a space to feel larger, while warm colors make rooms look more cozy. Paint your small bedroom a light cool color, and consider light wood or finishes for large pieces of furniture. You can decorate with bold accent colors on smaller items like throw pillows and art work to give your space more personality. 7. Think About Custom Built-ins A white and blue bedroom. If you have the time, energy, and resources, custom built-ins are perfect for small bedrooms. You can have furniture designed and built to your specific needs and dimensions of your room. While costly, if you plan to stay in your home long-term, custom built-ins may be worth the investment. With a little bit of creativity and hard work, you can make a small bedroom the highlight of your home and a tranquil place to rest.
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2. Remove Clutter The biggest thing you can do to make a small room appear larger is to remove clutter. The more items you have in your room, the more cramped it will feel. Consider what items you really need to keep in your bedroom. Perhaps a book collection can be stored elsewhere in the house. Maybe personal toiletries, like makeup, can be stored in the bathroom. Removing clutter is one of the easiest and most inexpensive things you can do to make your small bedroom feel more peaceful.
3. Use Your Wall Space A girl’s bedroom. When horizontal space is limited, you have to look at your vertical space. Most people leave their walls for art work. However, you can also put your walls to work with floor-to-ceiling shelving, bookcases, and storage units. Closed storage is perfect for clothing and lends itself to a cleaner look, design-wise. However, open storage might be more appropriate for a kid’s room where you might want everything to be accessible.
do it yourself
1. Maximize Lighting A bedroom with three windows. Dark rooms appear smaller while light rooms appear larger. Consider keeping any window treatments simple to allow outdoor light into the room. You can also add additional light with wall sconces instead of table lamps. This will leave any side table space open for other items. Reflective surfaces, like wall mirrors, also tend to reflect light and make a room appear larger.
Taking care of Berberis
Silke Wrobel arrived on Crete 29 years ago from Germany. She has established the animal rescue center called Noah’s Little Arch. Almost 30 years of voluntary work with abandoned animals on Crete has been taught many lessons to this honourable old lady, that she will never forget. “If i had this experience and still 750.000 euros of my money, I spent on this work, i would do things differently”, she nods. “If being miracle maker i would open the eyes of every cretan families what a real problem occurs when these 300-400 yearly basis founded animals breed freely. Every single cat has three litter per year starting from five months age. How many kittens it will be altogether when the third litter is 5 months?” she asks an innocent question adding that altogether 15,000 animals has went trough her hands. Twenty years ago there were just a few crazy people loving n o k c r s cli re new cretepost.g cats, mostly free animals were o m r o / f http:/ poisoned or taken away to the wilderness away from the sight. “In
short sight: To clean the atmosphere at spring and before winter in order not to tourist see the problem.” “Now, after this experience, i would build up an castration clinic”, this german old lady promply says. We care for animals Silke wipes out a free proposal for hotels. She has seen so many animals thrown away in plastic bags, one was
even delivered mid conversation. Three puppies has been left out in cartoon box and another three kittens with a letter in the box next to the dust bin. “Being a hotel owner I would sign up on my door a public agreement WE CARE OUR ANIMALS: WE CASTRATE AND VACCINATE OUR ANIMALS AND WE HAVE ONLY HEALTHY CATS. WOULD YOU DONATE?”.
Animal export Exporting animals as a trade is forbidden in Greece. “It is not a business. If anyone doubts, please try yourselves”, she emphasises. Animals could be exported only when healthy after proper injections and four months develop antibodies. She would encourage people to give foster homes for abandoned animals that are waiting their permanent location”, and she continues: “It is stupid to have no sensibility on these issues. It makes a such a damage for tourism. I am not jesus christ by myself but every one driving or sitting on a cart in hot heat while a horse’s mouth is full of foam is guilty. This is not attempt, give a sharp knife on them.” Info Box - Noah’s Little Ark - FB: Silke Wrobel, Tel: 6946881155, Fax: 00 30 28210 55030, Email: noahsark@chania.zzn. com - Filozoikos Chanion - animalscare. gr, FB: Filozoikos Chaniwn, Tel. 6986552.569, Email: chaniapets@yahoo.gr - Pluto - Boarding Kennel, Kisamos, Tel. 28223 00414, 694 65 60 918, Email: gaeter@outlook.com
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pets & vets
* Freelancer journalist Henna Syvävirta came up to search her lost b&w house cat from Chania.
Planting -Dig holes or beds wide, not deep -Lightly amend heavy clay or sandy soils with organic matter -Gently remove plants from containers, keeping the root ball intact -Loosen potting soil and roots around bottom and edges of root ball -Plant level with surrounding soil, spreading roots outward -Fill around roots with lightly amended native soil -Water to settle soil around roots -Cover the area with leaf or bark mulch 1 - 3 inches thick but not piled up onto the plant’s stem/trunk -Water deeply -Stake large shrubs or trees to prevent excess movement in strong winds Watering -Woody plants need watering less frequently than tender annuals or herbaceous plants -Most established trees, shrubs, and vines can go weeks without supplemental watering except in extreme-
ly hot or windy weather -Watering from a hose or sprinkler should be done slowly and deeply, not frequently, to avoid shallow root development or root diseases. Allow soil to dry several inches deep before irrigating -When practical, especially in arid climates, use and maintain water-efficient soaker hoses or drip irrigation. Water briefly two or three times a week to keep soil moist, not wet -Most winter injury is from drying out, not cold temperatures. Be prepared to water during prolonged sunny, windy, dry spells even in the winter. -Mulches help prevent water loss during hot, windy, or sunny weather Pruning -Prune for size control and pedestrian safety, to remove dead or diseased plant parts, or to shape or train plants into hedges, topiary, espalier, or other interesting shapes -Broadleaf plants, both evergreen and deciduous, can be cut as hard as needed, even back to main trunks.
New growth sprouts near the cut ends. -Prune in the late winter or spring, depending on when the plants flower -Cutting plants back to knobby growth (“pollarding”), though not always acceptable to neighbors, does not seriously harm plants in the long run. Propagation -Root stem cuttings of evergreen shrubs in the summer, taking short cuttings of mature new growth, stripping or pruning off the lower leaves, and sticking into moist potting soil or well-drained garden soil kept in bright indirect light and high humidity. -Root stem cuttings of deciduous shrubs in the fall or late winter -Keep cuttings moist 4-6 weeks until well rooted, then transplant into individual containers -Rooting hormones increase the likelihood of rooting, but are not necessary for most plants.
Fertilization Most plants need a regular “diet” of all-purpose plant food, either specialty (labeled for your specific plant type) or a generic N-P-K (nitrogen phosphorus - potassium) Fertilize early in the plant’s growing cycle - spring for summer plants, fall for winter plants -For leafy plants, use a fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content (first number) -For flowering or fruiting plants, use a fertilizer higher in phosphorous content (middle number) If using a water soluble fertilizer: -Mix as directed on container according to directions -Wet the leaves and drench soil -Repeat If using a granulated fertilizer: -Scatter a small amount of all-purpose fertilizer lightly under plants from the stem to beyond the outer spread of branches or foliage -Water slowly and deeply NOTE: Never over fertilize! You will see lots of weak, leafy growth and few flowers
THIS IS THE MONTH OF... BERBERIS
only 9,80 € from 14,80 €
EXCLUSIVE OFFER ONLY FOR “EN KIPO” SHOP IN PLAKA, APOKORONAS AND ONLY FOR THIS MONTH
p.35
by Henna Syvävirta Roivainen *
plants and gardening
Value of the cat
is very likely that in the near future feta cheese commercials around the world will not be accompanied by the sound of bouzouki and beautiful Greek island landscapes, according to greekreporter.com. Feta cheese is at risk of losing its Protected Designation of Origin status, as new trade agreements may allow Canada and South Africa to produce white cheese and name it “feta.” According to a new trade agreement the European Union is preparing to sign with Canada and South Africa, the two countries will be able to produce their own versions of feta cheese. Greek Minister of Rural Development Evangelos Apostolou had stated pre-
n click o news tepost.gr e r o e /cr for m http:/
viously that he will not sign the EU trade agreement, he even threatened to veto the decision. However, the battle is lost and now
the minister puts the blame on the previous government, claiming that the deal was closed in September 2014.
Wines of Crete Master class in Oslo
“Wines
of Crete” presented a unique master class about the Cretan Vineyard, for the first time in Oslo, Norway. The masterclass, that took place at the “Det Norske Teatret”, was presented by the oenologist Manolis Stafilakis and the wine writer Nico Manessis. In this educational Masterclass, the 60 wine professionals, the vino monopolet, wine & gastronomy journalists that participated, were impressed on the taste and the exceptional aromas of the Cretan wines. The strong identity of the Cretan vineyard and the journey through the
centuries were the facts that the key
speakers presented.
This is not the first time that EU trade negotiations challenged the status of feta cheese as a PDO product, Apostolou said, adding that the Greek government is determined to continue to defend its position in all pertinent institutions and maintain the feta “Greekness” internationally. Feta cheese is one of the flagship Greek products internationally, its exports bringing to the Greek economy about 380 million euros per year. Along with feta, Greek yogurt is at risk of losing its PDO status as well. The Czech Republic, after the approval of the European Commission, now has the right to manufacture and to export to international markets a milk product called Greek yogurt. greekreporter.com
The presentation included the P.D.O. and P.G.I. wines of Crete, the history of the Cretan Vineyard and the indigenous varieties, highlighting the uniqueness of the Cretan wines. The Greek embassy in Oslo, with the representative Konstantinos Lizos supported strongly this event. The winemakers of Crete continue their effort to present Crete as a gastronomical – wine destination, while opening new markets such Norway, supporting local and going as a cluster. This campaign financed with aid from the European Union and Greece.
Traditional Cretan Recipes
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food & wine
MACARONI (SKIOUFICHTA) INGREDIENTS • ½ Kg Flour • 1 tsp. salt • 1 cup of grated anthotiro cheese • 1 glass of water • 3 tbsp. of cretan olive oil • 1-2 tbsp. butter PREPARATION Knead the flour with the water, the salt and the olive oil. Leave the dough for one hour and then make
the macaroni. Mold the dough into finger-sized strips and cut it in small pieces (about 3 cm long). Then put a finger in the middle of each piece and form a short and fat macaroni (like a small boat) empty in the middle. Spread some flour on the table, place the macaroni on it and let them dry for about an hour. Then shift them and boil them for approximately half an hour. Serve them in a deep plate with a drilled dipper and then pour hot butter (preferably “stacovoutiro”) and sprinkle the grated anthotiro cheese over them.
Why Greece’s largest island is a healthy holiday destination Sweet,
ripe tomatoes that taste of the sun’s life-giving rays, salty sea urchins that taste of the sea ... Greece’s largest island and one of its most southerly is celebrated for its spectacular beaches, mountains and Venetian-era architecture but its fertile plains and bountiful seas are also replete with succulent olives, tender octopus, squid and grouper and vegetables that are both fresh and full of flavour. The Cretan diet is all about eating everything this Mediterranean island’s rich soil produces — organic vegetables and fruit packed full of nutrients, as well as liberal quantities of olive oil, wheat, herbs and very little meat. It’s one of the healthiest diets in the world, according to a Seven Countries Study conducted from 1958 to 1999 by Dr Ancel Keys, which revealed that Cretans have very low levels of heart disease and cancer and high life expectancy. It’s also one of the oldest, dating back to the Minoan era of 14001700 BC. Herbs and plants in use today have been found on murals and icons at the Bronze-age Knossos Palace near Heraklion, the island’s capital, along with huge jars for storing olive oil. At 35 litres per person per year, Cretan olive oil consumption is the highest in the world. Many families own olive trees that not only meet their daily needs but provide a supplementary income. The island has 40 million olive trees — that’s an average of 70 trees per person. Olive tree cultivation is believed to have been pioneered 5,000 years ago by the Cretan Minoans who used the oil in their diet, as a cleanser, a scent and ointment. The high quality crop is attributed to the island’s alluvial soil and climate — hot dry summers, cool autumns and rainy winters.
Around 85 per cent of the olive oil produced here is extra virgin. Today wild, aromatic herbs and plants are used to flavour meals and locally-produced honey and grape-juice syrup as sweeteners — processed sugars do not feature. Pure, seasonal ingredients form the basis of simple recipes with minimal processing; the result is not only delicious but life-enhancing, too. During my week in Crete I dine like a Minoan queen and learn some of the secrets of the cuisine at the Aldemar Royal Mare Hotel in Hersonissos. With head chef George Chatzopoulos’s patient assistance, I produce a delicious aubergine salad and Cretan kritharada (prawn stew with truffle oil and orzo pasta). Thereafter, dish after dish of Cretan delicacies delight my taste buds; tender, sweet octopus and barbecued grouper at the Grecotel Amirandes hotel in Gouves, east of Heraklion; an exquisite sweet orange pie made with filo pastry (portokalopita) at the fivestar Daios Cove Hotel in Agios Nikolaos, on the north-east coast; Sfakiani pita with quince jam and pine nuts and goat’s cheese pies with thyme honey at Grecotel’s organic Agreco Farm, near the seaside resort of Rethymnon. Here at the 40-hectare estate, Grecotel guests are invited to become a farmer for the day, while holidaymakers can pop into the taverna and enjoy traditional Cretan food served in a glorious hillside setting. Cretans linger for hours over freshly-cooked meals, lunch often extending into dinner. One day, I spend eight hours around the table (though not in one sitting). It’s a way of life that is starting to change as youngsters move away from villages to faster-paced
The 4 senses restaurant... Follow the Path of an absolute gastronomic delight...
towns and cities — though not if restaurateur Magganas Panagiotis has his way. He opened Peskesi restaurant close to the centre of Heraklion Old Town two years ago to promote the Cretan diet and its health benefits. He is passionate about Cretan cuisine, his enthusiasm spilling over like the small glasses of rosé raki he pours liberally from a cut-glass decanter after our meal. When I visit on a Tuesday night, the converted manor house is buzzing with lively chatter. “Our cuisine is exclusively based on traditional recipes, on pure ingredients and on the principles of authentic Cretan cuisine,” he says proudly. “A cuisine with a great tradition in taste, aromas and ingredients which began in prehistoric times. Many young people here in Crete eat too much meat and not enough vegetables. They have forgotten about Cretan cuisine and I am trying here to revive this treasure.” The restaurant’s fruit and vegetables are grown on the 60-acre organic farm Panagiotis owns in Haraso, Hersonissos. They include native varieties such as manarolia (grass peas) and psares (a curly vegetable similar to lettuce, with a vinegary taste), which have almost disappeared from the island. Harvesting is carried out by hand to preserve the quality of the product. Free-range animals and poultry are raised on organic feed. “We use traditional techniques and avoid using chemical fertilisers and pesticides to ensure we produce healthy and safe crops that have real nutritional value and do not pollute the environment,” explains Magganas. Before opening the restaurant, he spent 10 years scouring the island’s villages and Minoan texts for traditional recipes and cooking methods, which
he replicates creatively. He shows me a drawing of the spit-roasting technique depicted on a fresco at the Palace of Knossos, which he has adapted to cook kandavlos — pork souvlaki marinated with wine, olive oil and wheat which, when it arrives at our table, sizzles and sings. Kreokakavos (pork roasted with honey and thyme and served with legume purée) has been taken from the world’s oldest cookbook, the Greek classic Deipnosophistae, written in the 3rd-century AD by Athenaeus. Freshly-picked artichoke leaves taste of early-morning dew; fried courgette flowers stuffed with creamy Cretan cheese melt in the mouth; marinated tenderloin gently infusing over smouldering sage and thyme perfumes the air. Wild herbs such as purslane add a lemony zing to salad, as well as provid- for more new s click on ing omega 3, vitamin B and C. http://cre tepost.gr It’s also a great detox for the digestive system, I am told. Several of the villagers’ dishes feature on the menu, such as Mrs Katerina’s spiny chicory casserole and Mrs Popi’s omelette with karolades (onion flowers). I try earthy-tasting snails, or chochlios — a popular Cretan delicacy fried in flour and olive oil and doused with wine — and goat stew before moving on to Cretan pie filled with creamy cheese and honey, then gastrin, a Minoan pastry topped with dried nuts, sesame and poppy seeds, honey and grape syrup. A selection of herbal teas rounds off this sumptuous meal, including karteraki, which contains a mixture of Cretan mountain herbs and tastes like camomile. Thankfully, after such a feast, it is also an excellent aid for digestion.
Kathryn Liston - Evening Standard
We use and promote local, quality products in combination with the revival of traditional flavours and new gastronomic proposals from 12:00 pm to 00:00 at midnight.
Platanias, Chania Tel. +30 6976 860573 www.olive-tree.gr
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It
Crete
food & wine
Feta Cheese and Greek Yogurt in danger of losing protected status
pictures on cigarette packages may convince more smokby Miltiades Markatos ers to quit, a U.S. study suggests. Pneumonologist In a four-week experiment, researchers randomly assigned about 2,150 adult smokers to receive either text-only or photo-enhanced warnings on their cigarette packs. With pictures, smokers were 29 percent more likely to try quitting during the study. Quitting for at least a week before the end of the study was 53 percent more likely with photos than with text alone. “Smokers told us that the pictorial warnings didn’t make them feel any more at risk for harm from smoking. However, the pictorial warnings made the harms of smoking ever present and vivid, while the usual text warnings were bland, stale, and easy to ignore,” said lead study author Noel Brewer, a public health researcher at the University n of North Carolina at Chapel o k r s clic re new cretepost.g o Hill. m r / fo http:/ Once a week for four weeks, participants in the study visited the researchers’ clinic and brought along an eight-day supply of cigarettes. Every week, researchers put stickers on participants’ cigarette packages, either with pictures and text, or just with text. The researchers removed the cellophane from the outside of the packages and affixed the stickers directly to the packs, covering the existing
U.S. Surgeon General’s warnings with the messages designed for the experiment. At each visit, smokers also filled out surveys indicating whether they had tried to quit. To be included in the study, people had to smoke at least seven cigarettes a week. They were told that the point of the study was to see how well they understood the labels on their cigarette packs. Photo warnings included a close-up shot of rotting teeth with the message “Warning: cigarettes cause cancer,” and an image of a gaunt, bald, bedridden person juxtaposed with “Warning: smoking can kill you.” Text-only warnings followed some Surgeon’s General statements, such as “Quitting smoking now greatly reduces serious risks to your health,” and
“Smoking causes lung cancer, heart disease, emphysema and may complicate pregnancy.” With pictures, 40 percent of smokers said they tried to quit during the study, compared with 34 percent of participants who received only text warnings, researchers report in JAMA Internal Medicine, online June 6. In addition, 5.7 percent of the people who received photo warnings quit for at least one week prior to the end of the study, compared with 3.8 percent for the word-only messages. “Pictorial warnings also increased forgoing a cigarette, intentions to quit smoking, negative emotional reactions, thinking about the harms of smoking, and conversations about quitting,” the authors reported. One limitation of the study is that
At people who joined the experiment may have had a greater desire to quit than typical smokers, the researchers also point out. It’s hard to say whether photos would have the same impact over a long period of time, or if the novelty of the warnings encouraged people to quit, the authors note. “Current warnings in the United States are small and barely noticeable, as they are on the side of the cigarette packages and have had the same messages for over 30 years,” said Jim Thrasher, a public health researcher at the University of South Carolina who wasn’t involved in the study. “The data are very consistent across a range of different studies in different cultural contexts - graphic warnings on cigarette packages do a better job than warnings with only text when informing consumers about the many serious health risks from smoking and in promoting smoking cessation,” Thrasher added. Roughly 70 countries outside the U.S. already have regulations requiring pictorial warnings similar to the ones tested in the current study, noted David Hammond, a public health researcher at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada, who wasn’t involved in the study. “Viewing an image of the effects of lung cancer or heart disease communicates the severity of smoking-related disease far more effectively than words alone,” Hammond said.
health & nutrition
Swap steak for Greek salad to slash your risk of diabetes It has long been used as a model of
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healthy eating to protect our hearts. Now the ‘Mediterranean diet’ has been proven by scientists to also significantly protect us against type 2 diabetes. Researchers from Harvard University followed the diets and medical histories of 200,000 health professionals in the US over a period of 20 years. Those with a higher consumption of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and beans, and a lower consumption of meat, were 34 per cent less likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Plant and animal products were ranked in an index giving higher and lower scores respectively, in order to produce an overall ‘grade’ for their diet. It was already known that there are
some health benefits to a vegetarian diet, but this study, published in the journal PLOS One, highlighted the importance of the difference between ‘healthy’ and ‘less healthy’ versions of plant-based foods. For example, grains should be consumed as the wholegrain variety, and not be refined. Those who opted for the ‘less healthy’ options of vegetarian foods, such as refined grains, potatoes and sugary drinks, found themselves sixteen percent more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. A plant-based diet low in animal products was shown to reduce the risk by 20 per cent – rising to thirty four percent if the healthiest versions were
consumed. It’s thought the ‘healthy versions’ work against diabetes because of their high levels of fibre, antioxidants, unsaturated fatty acids and micronutrients such as magnesium They can also help to boost healthy gut bacteria. A study in 2013 by the Universities of Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga and Navarra showed that this plant based Mediterranean diet also helps to prevent against cardiovascular disease and stroke. And another study showed the ‘good fats’ in Mediterranean olive oil are a more effective way of reducing weight than counting calories. However this is the first time the diet
A life changing visit to our pharmacy can make you change the way you see life and put your body and mind in harmony. Have you ever visited a pharmacy to taste health? A different pharmacy in the centre of the old town of Chania is waiting to share with you secrets of well being and longevity. Taste the biolo gical honey, the royal jelly, tea from plants carefully chosen in therapeutic recipes, high concentration and purity juices of pomegranate, cranberry, aloe. Orthomolecular nutrition with suggestions on detox programs and a carefully selected range of supplements, vitamins an gluten free products from all over the world. In the same premises you can find a live homeopathic lab with 6.000 homeopathic remedies in stock and the ability to produce any kind of homeopathic form i.e. pills, granules, solutions etc Evangelia Sakka is the pharmacist in charge who has created that special pharmacy and will be happy to introduce you to that fantastic world but also suggest whatever will be more settable for you. Our philosophy doesn’t stop on food and supplements but we want you to think of your mind and body as well. That’s why we have created next to our pharmacy the Green Care SPA. A SPA that helps to uplift your mind and body with biological face an body treatments, reflexology, reiky, su jok and moxa treatment, Bach flower remedies, homeopathy sessions, bowtech as well as nail therapies. We are waiting for you to restart your life at Daskalogianni 43 - 45, SAKKA Pharmacy www.my-pharmacy.gr / www.greencarespa.gr
has been shown to protect t against diabetes – another disease of increasing prevalence in Western society. ‘This study highlights even moderate dietary changes in the direction of a healthful plant based diet can play a significant role in the prevention of type 2 diabetes. These findings provide further evidence to support current dietary recommendations for chronic disease prevention,’ said nutritionist Dr Ambika Satija of Harvard University. Since the study cumulatively measured participants’ diet over a long time, it lowered possible errors in measurement from the data being self reported. The Mail
a meeting place in Chania in September 2015 two young Cretan men met up to discuss their love of playing Rugby and how they could continue to play the game they had enjoyed so much in Athens and Thessaloniki. To cut a long discussion short there was only one way. They would have to form a club, the first Rugby club on the island of Crete and one of very few throughout Greece. First they had to find a place to play, second they would have to find some other young men who would be interested in learning to play the game. This done they then started to train and the long process of teaching others how to play began. As the word spread so a few more joined in and the attention of few experienced retired amateur players from the UK
was attracted. With input from them between November and June the basic skills needed to play and some of the basic laws were taught and learnt. Eventually this culminated in the first game of rugby being played at a practice session at the National Stadium in Chania on Friday 24th June 2016 and was we believe the first in Crete. The session was one in which two teams played a short 12 a-side game with numbers being made up by a few of the American Service Personnel from the USS Truman recently in Souda. The game was played at a fast and furious pace with some hard crunching tackles made and taken and after two 15 minute sessions the Cretan Gunners side ran out the winners over the Combined Players side. All of those that took part benefitted
greatly from playing with some more experienced players from the USA and were able to put all of the practice drills into a game context. Coach Phil Elcock commented that the players did exceptionally well especially as only four of the Gunners players had played before and that the game although brief set the context for all the training that had been done since the club started but that that there was still much to do before the team would be ready to take part competitively in league competition. As the Cretan Gunners Rugby Club becomes established it will need to find permanent playing and social homes in Chania, attract sponsors
and more players if the intended goal of competing in the Greek National League is to be achieved. If you feel that you would like to be involved in this exciting new venture whether as a player, sponsor or behind the scenes helper you would be very welcome please come and talk to us at the stadium in Chania on a training night or contact us through our Facebook page. If you wish to have a go at playing then feel free to join us at the National Stadium in Chania on for more news click on a Monday or Wednesday evehttp://cre tepost.gr ning, 8.30 until 10.00. Cretan Gunners RUFC
Trekking
An activity that is addressed for many people... of all ages In the last 20 years, more and more
people choose this type of activity for exercise or activity. It can be combined with other activities such as bicycling, mountaineering, or other extreme sports. The municipality of Chania is ideal for trekking because of the morphology of the terrain and the good weather conditions makes it perfect for walking. The best time of the year for this type of activity is from April until October, even though during the summer months you can combine walking and swimming at one of the many beaches within the municipality. Because of the unique morphology of the terrain, there are several gorges you can visit, each with different levels of difficulty. The most popular are the Samaria Gorge, Gorge of Saint Irini, and Imbros Gorge. One can visit these areas from April on. It is recommended that hikers become informed on permissibility of each gorge. There are other gorges for more
advanced hikers that will require a guide, and therefore, you will need to contact a travel agent. Apart from the gorges, with their woodland natural beauty, as hikers
you can choose other simple routes, ones that are close to where you are staying. You can walk amongst thousands of olive trees, orange trees and lemon
trees, enjoying the scents of nature, away from the sounds of the city and the areas with many tourists. Chose one or more days to hike and visit the local area within the city of Chania, or combine your hike with a day at one of the hundreds of beaches in the area. The experience will be an unforgettable one. You can visit beautiful villages, meet the local people, farmers, and enjoy their company at a traditional village cafe or “kafeneio”. You will find the locals to be very hospitable making your stay a memorable one. For safety reasons, the least number of persons involved in this type of activity should be two. Hikers should also have the appropriate gear such as: • daypack • trekking shoes • waterproof jacket • fleece • water bottle • hat • sunglasses • suncream
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Gruesome
A little piece of sporting history
sports & leisure
Ghastly smoking-relating photos on cigarette packs do encourage smokers to quit