Athena and Kostas were the most generous, thoughtful and kind-heareted hosts that we have ever had on Airbnb. While for the majority of hosts Airbnb has became a business and the genuine exchange is more and more rare to find, Athena and Kostas really stand out from this sad trend and have reminded us why travelling with Airbnb can be such a unique and unforgettable experience.
The apartment is flawless- very clean, stylish and will all amenities one could wish for. Even though it is next to a road, we slept like babies and had a very relaxing stay. Special note for the outdoor table where you can enjoy your breakfast in the sun- much appreciated coming from rainy Belgium.
The location is around 15-20 minutes walking from the main tourist centre but we did not mind at all, because Halepa is actually a very beautiful part of the city and it is much calmer, so we definetely recommend it if you want to relax away form the hussle and bustle of central Chania, while still being close enough to walk. Besides, the apartment is located next to a terrific coffee place, wonderful local bakery, where we purchased our freshly baked spinach and cheese pie,s and probably the best fish tavern of Chania- Thalassina Ageri- is just 3 minutes down the road. Don't miss it for anything, food is so much better and fresher than in the touristy taverns in the port of Chania, with menus in 12 langauges and idiot pictures of the food.
Most importantly, our hosts were incredibly warm and we have never had a more genuine and outstanding welcome from hosts anywhere. They greeted us with a carefully drafted book full of historic facts and good advice on everything ranging from best beaches to best restaurants and so on. It is rare to find hosts who put as much care and heart into greeting people. They really are proud of their city and their culture and for a very good reason- because Chania is beautiful and Cretan people are just the loveliest and most open hearted folk we have ever met. A special note goes to the homemade food which they shared with us- we were moved and delighted as it was awesome!
We could not be more grateful for such a splendid stay and we will be recommending Athena and Kostas to anybody looking to engage with lovely Cretan people and interested in discovering Crete with great local tips.