On the north-western shores of Crete, surrounded by glistening blue sea and with a stunning backdrop of mountains, Chania is a real Mediterranean gem. Steeped in history and tradition, this one small part of the island represents an exotic mix of ancient European and Arab cultures, with plenty of present-day Greek and Turkish culture thrown in. A simple walk through town will take you past churches, memorials and Venetian castles down to a beautiful waterfront of brightly-coloured façades, bustling tavernas and fish restaurants, open-air cafés and bars. Basking in the sun and looking out onto a sea of a hundred sparkling blues, learning a little Greek and immersing yourself in the culture suddenly doesn't seem like such hard work after all...
