I just spent 10 days at Gina's home in a quiet village a few kilometers from Spili. The central island location is perfect for fine walks directly from her house; mountain and south coast beach trips are easy, as are drives into the small city of Rethymnon on the north coast. This is the real Crete, well removed from tourist centers on the two coasts. The hill location means slightly cooler temperatures than down on the plains, which can get uncomfortable on hot days. However, the nearest beach is just a 10-15 minute drive.

The "room" is really more of a cottage with a private entrance, bathroom, and downstairs living room. There's a delightful flowered terrace for eating breakfast just outside; plus a nice garden and a lovely rooftop terrace with views out over the village rooftops. That's perfect for sipping a glass of retsina in the evening while jealously contemplating one's own purchase of a similar home in Crete.

Gina was a charming hostess offering a warm welcome. She provided reliable advice about local restaurants, shops, and walks. There's small refrigerator with local yogurt and drinks, and I found coffee, teas, and breakfast cereal for my terrace breakfast.

I hope to return soon.