Of the 5 islands and the mainland I visited in Greece, Crete was my overall favorite by far, thanks in great part to my hosts Clive & Chantal. From the moment we met, with Chantal standing her ground with the airport police to load my luggage into the car, to their editorial lecture highlighting the history of the greatest civilization of the ancient world, as we entered the walled city center of Irakleio on the way to their home, I was enchanted and memorized by their genuine love of all things Cretan. Purely infectious, I was transformed to a time when Crete was the epicenter of the known world.

As we meandered through the labyrinth of ancient streets barely 5 feet wide,within the 13th C Venetian walls,we arrived at the house. You are immediately assaulted by the overwhelming smell from the jasmine vines that cling to the gated entry. Understated from the outside, you enter a truly magnificent 16C structure (a former monastery) with 14 foot ceilings, impeccable decorated. This is not a vacation rental. This is a home that has been careful restored to perfection with love by Clive & Chantal.

The photos of the listing do it no justice. As you explore the two levels, you find windows that open to hidden terraces with varying views of the neighborhood. Quiet, quaint, and magical is no exaggeration. Every creature comfort you think you have left behind suddenly materializes. If you're a chef, then you have every imaginable gadget you need, in the well outfitted kitchen. Not to mention a dining room, with the original tile flooring, that could easily seat 12-16 comfortably. Simply stated the home is stunning.

I dropped off my luggage, and Clive & Chantal walked me to their favorite local eatery for dinner, a few blocks away downhill. I ate every meal there when not traveling about the island. The Cretan cuisine was my favorite in all of Greece.

A block further down from the eatery, you are in the heart of Irakleio. A 10 min walk down to the Plateia Eleftheriou Venizelou, the pedestrian zone of shops and cafes. From here another 5 mins walk along 25 Avgoustou and you’re facing the Venetian fortress Rocca al Mare. Also a 10 min walk NE from the home, and you’re at the Archeology Museum, which houses the world’s greatest collection of Minoan artifacts.

I also rented a car and drove east to experience all the towns along Mirabellou Bay-Agios Nikolaos, Elounta, including Plaka-Spinalonga island and its 14th C Venetian fortress. So drive its easy, with a fast new highway-55 mins.

I have to return and stay here again, and explore the west end of Crete, from the central location of this home.

I came to Crete to experience its history, its way of life, its nightlife, and its people.

No hotel could have provided the enchantment, insight, independence or comfort that Clive & Chantal’s home allowed me.

Their home truly embodies the best of the airbnb community!