Day 9

When I woke up this morning I felt strangely sick. It must have been similar to the ‘tummy bug’ my Uncle Rodger had at the wedding…. It was our last breakfast in the hotel so Louis enjoyed every bite. I, on the other hand, struggled a bit too much to stomach anything but pushed through, I knew it would be a busy day so had to pull myself together.

After breakfast we met a guy in reception to collect our car. Despite Louis wanting to splash out and get an Audi, I thankfully managed to bring him back to reality and he settled with a red Toyota Yaris. Perfect.

Unlike last week, this week is sure to filled with adventure. No sunbathing, siestas or poolside cocktails for me. Our first spot was Melidoni Cave. I had no idea where it was or what to expect, so much so that when we arrived, I asked Louis would I need to bring my towel and goggles. As you can see from the photo, I would have looked like a right weirdo if he had said yes.

The cave was so cool though. It had been previously used by the Turks to kills greek civilians by bouldering up the entrance, lightening fires and channeling the smoke into the cave.

The island of Crete is huge so journey times between each location can be time consuming. Lucky I’m in the passenger seat and can enjoy the scenic views and enjoy a few power naps.

Our next stop was Preveli Beach. To get to the beach you have to walk down a never ending staircase and dirt track. It was so steep and I couldn’t help but already dread the hike back up. The beach was worth it though. It has a river which flows out into the sea. I mean I’m pretty sure that’s what happens all rivers but this one bends before the shore with a spit in between. As the river water is cooler than the sea, when you enter the salt water, it’s like going into a heated swimming pool. Another plus is that you can rinse all the salt water off you as you swim back up sea!

After our hike, it was time to refuel. We stopped at a Taverna and enjoyed some bread, olive oil and chips. A greek version of a chip buddy. Louis accidentally poured white wine vinegar all over his plate, thankfully the smell was so strong he realised his mistake and was able to pour it off before dipping his bread in it.

It was an hour and a half drive to Chania, our new base for the next week. We parked up and went to meet the host of the Airbnb in a cafe. Louis started some small talk but the lady didn’t understand and went to get a waitress to translate. Louis then had to repeat all the small talk again which was very awkward. The apartment was just upstairs. Nice bedroom, kitchenette, table, sofa but the view over the seafront was just amazing. The perfect place for some afternoon drinks!

Before any alcohol could be consumed though, we had to get our suitcases from the car and wheel them down the promenade. Louis started to regret allowing me to get bright yellow ones. I still think they are class.

Wifi connected and cases unpacked, we went for some drinks in the cafe/restaurant below the apartment. When the waitress came with our drinks, she also brought out a bowl of crisps. A nice gesture but Louis thankfully moved them from sight and smell so it wasn’t too much of a disaster. However, Louis had also ordered a sandwich that came with a side of crips. Thank God I didn’t order anything or it would have all gone to waste. The waitress came over with some local raki, one her family makes. She explained that it is made from the leftover grape they use to make wine with. Each family then flavours it differently, this one had cinnamon. I still had cider left so I let Louis enjoy the small jug she supplied. It wasn’t long until Louis was giggling away and smiling…. I know. This stuff must be good. I’m going to have to keep a bottle on my person at all times and when he gets cranky, whip it out.

For dinner tonight we went to a highly recommended vegan and vegetarian restaurant. We shared hummus, spinach, potato casserole and a vegan lasagne style dish. I thought it was so so good but it wasn’t to Louis’ taste buds. After dinner, we went for a short walk along the harbour and back along the seafront. There was a concert happening just down the road and the whole population of Crete was there. Even if they didn’t have a ticket, they were peeking through the fence to see and enjoy the music. It was a bit heavy metal for us so instead we returned to the balcony to people watch from the comfort of our home for the week.