Villa Rethymno, Crete

Generous Helping vacations are structured around two guiding principles: First, experienced travelers prefer less structured daily activities so they can see and experience Europe like a ‘local.’ And second, there is no higher reward than making new friends while creating lifelong memories.

Our guests are welcomed to sumptuous villas that richly reflect the romance of the local culture. Mornings begin with a bountiful breakfast featuring your choice of Cretan pastries, fruit, eggs, and our favorite Greek yogurt with honey. During breakfast, your hosts will discuss destinations and activities that will appeal to various interests, such as history, art, exercise, and cuisine.

Our villa was chosen for its beauty plus its central proximity to Crete’s three major cities, Chania, Rethymno, and Heraklion, their museums and culinary treasures, as well as nearby historical sites such as the Arkadi Monastery and the Palace of Knossos Archaeological site, a variety of beaches, and typical local villages.

Some guests will depart for a full day of exploration, while others return mid-afternoon for a refreshing swim in the pool accompanied by delicious poolside snacks and chilled beverages. One of your host’s favorite pastimes is based on the art of flaneur, wandering and taking each turn in the road as it comes with no particular destination. On Crete, they’ve enjoyed exploring many of the chapels that are located on some of the island’s most spectacular hillsides. Be sure to watch for the tiny shrines along the roadsides, which are an important feature of Greek culture.

Specific days and times are set aside for you to join your hosts for very special events, such as the Meet the Producers tour, which includes lunch at a typical taverna and a Cretan cooking class. Our small groups allow us to share intimate experiences in unique places unavailable to larger tour groups.

$3,800 per person (based on double occupancy).