FAQ’s

Getting to/from Crete

By Air: Aegean Airlines and Olympic Airlines fly regularly from Athens to Heraklion, the capital of Crete.
There are flights from Chania to Athens, other islands and some European countries.
I will pick you up from Heraklion Airport on the Monday of Day 1 of the tour at 11:00am. There is an Aegean Airlines flight from Athens to Heraklion every day at 10:00am which will get you into Heraklion by 11:00 am.
By Ferry:
- Minoan Lines: 11 weekly overnight sailings from Piraeus to Heraklion (approx. 7 hours).
- Anek Superfast: 7 weekly overnight sailings (approx. 9 hours).
Direct international flights: If you’re travelling from the UK or Europe, check local airlines – direct flights to Heraklion are often available, letting you skip an Athens. Stopover.

Luggage Allowance

1 medium suitcase (max 23kg)
1 small carry-on (max 8kg)

Important: Airlines weigh both checked and carry-on luggage. If you’re likely to go over, buy extra kilos online in advance — it’s much cheaper than paying at check-in.

Currency in Greece

Greece uses the Euro (€).
Bring some euros or withdraw at ATMs (widely available).
Most places accept credit cards (except AMEX and Diners), but cash is preferred in many smaller towns and islands.

What’s Included in the Tour Price?

Boutique accommodation in the best locations in Agios Nikolaos and Chania
14 breakfasts
Six dinners & seven lunches
All meals include local wine and seasonal, organic produce local to the area
Two private cooking classes learning about the secrets to the Cretan Diet
Two meals with local Cretan friends cooking for us
Two wine and one olive oil tasting
Private minibus and taxi transport
Specialised local guides for the island of Spinalonga, Knossos, Chania, Agia Triada and Rethymno
Entry to all archaeological sites and museums including Knossos and the Archaeological Museum
Private Olive Trail tour and cooking class
A guided tour of Bioaroma Crete, famous for its organic cosmetics and perfumes using environmentally friendly plants and using ancient Minoan recipes
Private boat tour in a traditional Greek fishing boat (caique)
Visit to the weekly farmers’ and travellers’ markets
Three private trips into ancient mountain villages and Venetian monasteries
A private visit to the Australian and New Zealand War Cemetery
Greek Easter tour – drinks on a balcony overlooking the lake at midnight on Easter Saturday to watch the fireworks and a traditional Greek Easter feast on Easter Sunday in a 5-star hotel
Aegean Odyssey tour – barley breadmaking class and lunch in a local family home
Tour Concierge to ensure every day is seamless and fun

✳️ Not included: Flights, insurances, gratuities, meals and drinks not listed, transfers not listed and laundry

Payment Schedules

Greek Easter Tour (6–19 April 2026)

Deposit: A$1500 per person (non-refundable) by 1 September 2025
First Payment: A$4500 by 1 November 2025
Final Payment: A$4500 by 20 January 2026

Aegean Odyssey Tour (1–14 June 2026)

Deposit: A$1500 per person (non-refundable) by 1 September 2025
First Payment: A$4500 by 1 November 2025
Final Payment: A$4500 by 20 February 2026

Please Note: Tour numbers are capped at eight people and are subject to a minimum number. Every effort will be made to ensure tours take place, but if numbers aren’t reached, all money will be refunded.

Therefore, it’s advisable to not purchase your flights until confirmation.

Dietary Requirements

We will do my best to accommodate all dietary needs – just let me know in advance so we can plan accordingly.

Itinerary Flexibility

We make every effort to adhere to the planned itinerary. However, in the event of unforeseen circumstances, we may need to adjust our plans ensure the best possible experience.

Cancellation Policy

A$1500 non-refundable deposit required to confirm your booking.
If cancelled:
- More than 61 days before departure: 30% of tour cost forfeited
- 60–46 days before: 50% forfeited
- 45 days or fewer: 100% forfeited
All cancellations must be submitted in writing.

Food & Water

Food is organically grown and locally sourced – bursting with flavour.
Local wine (Xima, pronounced “Hima”) is made without preservatives or additives and often from the taverna owner’s vineyard.
Raki (Cretan spirit) is typically offered after meals. Give it a try – it grows on you!
Tap water is fresh from mountain springs and safe to drink.

Tipping

A 5–10% tip is essential as wages are so low. Leave it on the table, hand it directly to your server, or say “keep the change.”

Activity Level

Expect plenty of walking and swimming. Moderate fitness and good mobility will help you fully enjoy the tour.

What to Pack

Hat, water bottle, good walking shoes
Flip-flops/beach shoes for rocky beaches, swimmers, beach towel/sarong
Sunscreen, light jacket/pashmina, rain jacket
Casual clothes for day (jeans, shorts, T-shirts, cotton dresses); smart casual for evenings
Mosquito repellent (also widely available in Crete)
Greek Easter Tour will be cooler, so layers and a warm, wind/rain jacket. Greek Easter Sunday lunch is smart.

Dress code: Casual and comfortable is the Cretan way.

Voltage, Adapters, WiFi, International Roaming, eSIMS

Greece uses 220V electricity with Type C or F plugs. Bring a universal adapter for your devices.

WIFI readily available in hotels and most tavernas and cafes. I will set up a WhatsApp group for us to use whilst on the tour.

International roaming – I prefer to pay my local carrier and pay for international roaming as I can then use my own phone number – important if your bank needs to contact you urgently. If purchasing an eSIM make sure you have phone, texts, data and can keep your own number.

Travel Insurance

Essential – your policy should cover: