Can we still go on vacation to Crete?
Crete vacation Are you still celebrating, despite those fires that are filling up half the news? Or is it time to throw our beach towel towards Brittany? Well, I dove in (not literally, although that blue water…) and I'll tell you exactly what the situation is, why we love Crete so much, and how to go on vacation wisely. With sunscreen and common sense.
Sun, sea, bliss (and that little fishing village where you secretly want to keep living)
Crete is such a place that feels like coming home, but with better wine and a prettier view. The scent of thyme wafting over the hills, olives you want to pick straight from the tree, and then those beaches… Elafonisi, Balos, Vai – like a Pinterest board come to life.
And we haven't even talked about Chania, that town where after one evening on the terrace you already think: “Maybe I'll buy a summer house here.” Between the old harbor and the Greek grandmothers who stuff you with moussaka, you've completely forgotten about your agenda.
But… those fires then?
Yes, Crete had a tough time. In early July, severe fires broke out near Ierapetra, on the southeast coast. It was blowing at force 9, it was scorching hot, and thus: flames in the pan. About 5,000 people – tourists and locals – had to evacuate. And although fortunately no casualties occurred, it looked quite severe for a moment.
But: the situation is now largely under control. Most hotspots have been extinguished, although in some areas (like Ierapetra) the state of emergency still applies – just as a precaution. Your Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymnon are meanwhile just running at full speed.
Should I unpack my bags now?
Absolutely not. But: a little preparation is wise. The official authorities – such as the Greek government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – do not issue a travel ban, but do give a clear warning: be alert. Especially between April and October, the risk of wildfires in all of Greece is just a fact.
Set your phone to emergency alerts (the 112Greece app is your new BFF), read up on local news pages, and definitely check where your accommodation is located. Just in case.
So what is wisdom, jetsetters?
Take it from me: no one wants to be evacuated to a fishing boat with a towel on their head during a vacation. But if it happens, you'd rather be that organized goddess with a charged phone and a bag full of essentials than the tourist who has their passport lying somewhere under the bed in room 210.
Also handy: preferably book something with a flexible cancellation option and check if your travel insurance covers any evacuation costs. Not sexy, but wise.
Why you should just go
Because Crete is calling you, darling. And honestly: the regions that really suffered from the fires are limited, and the tourist hotspots are functioning as always. Maybe even a tad quieter – which is quite nice if you're looking for a table for your seafood linguine.
The sky is blue again, the beaches are clean, the people are friendly (as always), and those sultry Greek evenings are still everything you need.
Your checklist for a zen vacation in Crete
- Book flexibly (so you can adjust if necessary)
- Check your insurances (very grown-up of you)
- Download the 112Greece app
- Follow local alerts (or stalk the hotel reception)
- Smoking? Only where it's allowed, and don't just dump your smoldering ashtray in the garden
- And if the fire department says something: listen, don't be stubborn
Crete is – despite all the flames – still that summer love you keep coming back to. So pack that awesome bucket hat, put on sunscreen, and enjoy. Because yes: you can still go on vacation to Crete.
Check here the official travel advice from the Dutch government
