Abby's place is just lovely! The views are beautiful and the house very comfortable. As a group of four old friends we just wanted to relax for a week and leave work and worries behind. Abby's house was the perfect place for this. We had decided not to bother with a car as we had been to Crete quite a few times in the past and on this occasion were less bothered with visiting other parts of the island. The walk to Panormo takes around 30 minutes (40 if you're dawdling) and is really very easy. The town has two decent supermarkets and a bakers plus many other shops. Getting your shopping home costs between 8 and 10 euros. The only thing you won't find there is fresh meat (and I didn't see fresh fish). However you can get a taxi to the big Lidl if needed. Closer to home the village of Skepasti is just a few minutes away and has a tiny shop for fresh bread and a few bits and bobs. The local taverna over the main road (not a problem to cross) is fantastic and yes, we overdid the raki one evening!
Just relaxing in the sun, watching the birds and spotting butterflies in the garden only interrupted by regular dips the it the pool made for an ideal relaxing break. The house had everything you need and is clearly a much loved place.
However, if you have not visited Crete I would very much recommend a visit to Rethymno old town or further afield and here you might find a car more useful to explore this beautiful and friendly island.
Many thanks to Abby and to Anne.