We want you to see what we see. The breathtaking landscapes, the mountain villages where old ladies tend their goats, and the captivating mix of old and new. We want you to feel what we feel. The fascinating variety and the sense of timelessness that pervades everything in this  special place of Chania. We want you to enjoy what we enjoy. The golden beaches, with it array of water sports, and the fragrance of olive and citrus groves. We want you to know what we know. The warmth of the people, their spirit and spontaneity, and their contagious enjoyment of life.

We want you to love what we love. The easy way of life, the stunning natural beauty, and the wonderful Mediterranean food. We want you to go to this magical island  like we did and fall in love with delightful old world charm.

Since ancient times, Crete has exerted a  magnetic pull on people from other lands. Homer described the island as "hospitable, handsome and fertile" and referred to Cretans of many races. This portrayal is as accurate today as it was nearly 3000 years ago. Each year, more and more people are drawn to Crete; they come not only as visitors, but also to make their home on this captivating island in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea. Relocating to a new place is an exhilarating experience, a transition that can be made smoothly and with little stress when you are equipped with some basic facts and  information about living in Crete. Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and as a result it offers a diverse range of environments, so much so that at times it hardly feels like an island at all. Crete's north coast is where the  major cities are located and where a large number of its 624,000 inhabitants reside.

The south, in contrast, is less developed but offers dramatic vistas and idyllic settings. The interior is dominated by a series of mountain ranges, some of them snow crowned right into May. Their majestic presence is visible from almost any point in the Cretan landscape. Chania is the westernmost of Crete's four prefectures. The city of the same name, which serves as the capital of the province, is a bustling town which spreads outward from the picturesque Venetian old town and  harbour. Sandy beaches line the coast to the  east and west of the city and excellent roads along the north coast link it to surrounding villages and communities, allowing the option of living in a rural or seaside setting without sacrificing access to modern conveniences.

The White Mountains, which contain more than 40 peaks over 2,000 meters high, stand guard over the entire region and offer  limitless hiking and walking opportunities, not  least of which is the Samaria Gorge, the longest gorge in Europe. Combine the advantages listed above with the fact that Crete boasts the longest period of sunshine per year in Europe and it is not difficult why more than 3000 foreigners have opted to purchase property in the Chania area. But is it right for you? Let us help you find the answer to that question by giving you an overview of contemporary Crete.