Michael is a fabulous host and his traditional house is absolutely wonderful! It is in the heart of a great traditional Cretan village, and it is easy to quickly feel accepted and a part of the village. The house had all we required for a very comfortable stay - very good beds, air-conditioning (essential in the July heat), a very well-appointed kitchen, with thoughtful welcoming touches (wine and fresh fruit). There was a problem with water on our arrival, and Michael did everything he could to insure that we were not inconvenienced - he brought in bottled water for us, and he made phone calls to check that the problem was fixed (it was!). The private balcony is a great spot for breakfast, and the rooftop verandah is fabulous - excellent views, sunshine and plenty of space. We loved that everything in the village was within easy walking distance - great tavernas (especially Staras and 4Bros), fine little supermarkets, and a wonderful ceramics shop, run by Pantelis and Spiridou. There was ample parking at the top of the road (about 70 metres walk), which allowed us the opportunity of meeting and greeting local people, who are just so warm and friendly. The beach at the bottom of the village is also fantastic - very safe, not at all touristy (which we liked) and picturesque, with a small church at the edge of the sea. Gerani is an ideal spot for touring around Crete -10 minutes to Rethymno, 40 minutes to Chania, an hour and a quarter to Heraklion, and about 40 minutes to the south coast. And Michael's Astro Traditional House is a perfect base for a holiday. His rental car was also excellent value for money and in top condition, and Michael also graciously offered to collect us and drop us back to the airport in Heraklion - above and beyond what anyone would expect from a host - thank you, Michael, for making us so welcome in your traditional house!!