If I think of a great host, I think of Maria. She is very kind and caring about her guests...We felt at home when we arrived by taxi and she was waiting for us at the entrance. She listened to all our plans and was extremely helpful in checking options for us and helping us anytime we needed anything. Her place is centrally located within a few minutes from the bus station, great restaurants, bakery, and supermarket. It was very clean and tidy...The balcony was lovely indeed overlooking the Venetian wall. Remember please that you are in the heart of Heraklion and so at night it was a bit noisy but it was not on a main street, it was very manageable. I highly recommend this place if you want to experience the warmth and generosity of a Cretan family!!