First, about this place: it is in an absolutely idyllic street in Old Town Chania steps from the harbour with so much character. It's clean, it's better equipped for guests than our own home, and is absolutely beautiful. Maria thought of everything a guest could want and more. Raki in the fridge, beach towels in the cabinet--Maria thought of things we never would have expected and is the very definition of a perfect host. Her recommendations for restaurants were impeccable. Everywhere we went was perfect but we particularly enjoyed Vasillikos the fish taverna in the harbour and Tamam for small plates and wine just steps from the villa. She helped us book a car rental and recommended beaches and routes to take. She walked us to the bus station to make sure we arrived safely. Which leads me to Maria as a person...
Maria is one of the kindest and sweetest people we have had the pleasure of meeting. From the instant she met us she was warm and friendly and made us feel at home. She speaks English beautifully with a lovely Greek accent. She was available anytime we needed her and was always there to say kalimara (I probably don't have the spelling right but 'good morning') when we would see her each day then made sure to provide us with recommendations on our day based on what we told her we were interested in doing. She helped us book a car which we drove through the mountains to Elifonisi (but not before she checked the weather to make sure it was ideal for us). It was perfect and I decided to propose to my girlfriend. When we told Maria we were now engaged and the details she began to tear up. Maria is the kind of genuine person you wish you could meet everyday but we will happily settle with having the pleasure of meeting her at all. She bought us an engagement gift which we will hang on our Christmas Tree this year. We definitely didn't expect to leave Chania with an experience this profound and with a host that we would call a friend.
We look forward to returning to Chania. When we do we will undoubtedly stay at Maria's in a beautiful villa as neighbours to an even more beautiful person. Thank you for everything Maria.