Some experiences and places are actually even better than description and photos, and this was certainly the case at Villa Sombra. Our host, Themistocles father, Manuel, could not have been more accommodating. It is not an exaggeration to say that he made the trip for us. We were able to get way past the tourist veneer and really get a genuine feel for Crete.

The house was newly remodeled, with old world grandeur, just like the photos, in a quiet village away from the bustle of Iraklion. The little Taverna near the house was an extra bonus. There are infrequent buses to the village from Iraklion, so having a car might be helpful, but we did OK without, thanks to Manuel.

Sipping morning coffee or a glass of wine in that beautiful courtyard with the ever present fragrance of lemon blossoms was just one more reason we loved our time in Crete.