What a wonderful home and a lovely holiday as a result!
Christina replied to every enquiry within an hour or two at most and the information was accurate - both the website and additional questions.
We were met at the house after a long, late flight at 11pm by the very welcoming Litsa who showed us everything we needed. The house was very clean and perfectly equipped for everything we could ever need. The garden was a delight with lovely plants and flowers and countless butterflies and dragonflies (blue and red). The various seating areas were ideal for different times of day and contributed to the "outdoor life" you always hope for (especially coming from Scotland!). Then there's the pool - such an oasis!! - great size and great depth with a small diving board. We swam several times each day and some nights and could not fault it.
Before we left we were a little concerned by the lack of air conditioning and although we landed during a mini heatwave 35-37 degrees for a few days (in September!), the ability to leave windows open (excellent mosquito net protection) meant that by the evening, although it was still warm, it was always comfortable.
Perhaps the only annoyance was a few noisy dogs in the village who let themselves be known in the evening and morning, but we soon got used to them and anyway some looked like guard dogs while local building projects were under way.
Living in the middle of a typical Cretan village was a real pleasure with a very different perspective from most holidays and added a great dimension. The nearest beaches (10 minutes away) on the north coast were nothing special, but some of the best beaches on the island are between 30 and 60 minutes away on the south coast and well worth a visit (we would very much recommend www.cretanbeaches.com to find those hidden gems).
A final mention for the wonderful Giannikos taverna a few meters up the road in the village square - Giannis has to be the most welcoming host on the island and his food is superb. Miss him at your peril!!!
Many thanks Christina for helping us to have such a lovely holiday.