By Maryanna Gabriel
I decided if I was a movie star, Santorini would be the absolute last place I would choose. Crowds and intense sun are not my thing. Although glad I had the experience, the more I think about it, the more astounded I am by Greek generosity and although some are making money of course, the tourism onslaught is brutal. My inderstanding is that Santorini is getting ready to regulate visitors, most especially from the cruise ships.
The next day, I chose to go to the only fresh water lake on Crete and to see historic Chania. Chania is known for it's Venetian occupation which left a mark on some of the architecture. I enjoyed their famous Bougatsa, a delicious pastry.
In the morning, I waited for the bus, but when two minutes ticked past the appointed hour, I knew something was wrong. I ran back to the hotel. The concierge made a call. I had misunderstood where to meet them and the bus was actually sitting there waiting for me. Who does that? Something like this would never happen in Canada. People care here. There is a strong sense of family, community, honour, and honesty. Falling all over myself with thank you's I took my seat, grateful not to miss the day.
I confess, I was overwhelmed by the big city of Chania. The lake itself turned out to be a clayish affair, not inviting to swim in and again completely catering to tourists. I was glad I saw it, but I was also glad I was coming home.
