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Getting There

Q: How do I get to Kalyves?

By Air:

• Chania Airport (CHQ) - 35 minutes away. This is your closest option.

• Heraklion Airport (HER) - 2 hours away. Offers more flight options but requires a longer drive.

By Ferry:

• Souda Port/Chania - 20 minutes away. The most convenient port for ferry arrivals/departures.  Ferries to/from Athens depart/arrive at Piraeus Port.

 

Money & Payments

Q: How much cash should I bring and what currency is used?

Bring €100–€200 in cash in small bills for incidental expenses. You can get Euros from an ATM upon arrival using one of the cards mentioned below.

• Use a credit/debit card (Visa or Mastercard) for most transactions

• Consider the Wise card for low-cost spending and ATM withdrawals

• Use mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) if convenient

This approach minimizes the amount of cash you carry while covering all payment needs safely and cost-effectively during your trip.

 

Electronics & Power

Q: What type of plug adapter do I need?

For Americans traveling to Greece, you'll need a plug adapter for Type C or Type F outlets. These are the standard sockets in Greece, featuring two round pins. U.S. plugs (types A and B) will not fit without an adapter.

• Best adapter: Look for a "Type C/F" or "Europe" travel adapter

• Voltage: Greece uses 230V/50Hz electricity, while the U.S. uses 120V/60Hz. Most modern electronics (laptops, phones, tablets) are dual voltage (marked 100–240V), so they only need the adapter—not a voltage converter

• Important: Always check your device label before plugging in. For single-voltage appliances like hair dryers or curling irons, you'll also need a voltage converter

 

What to Pack

Q: What should I pack for early October weather and activities?

In early October, Chania, Crete typically enjoys mild and pleasant weather with average daily temperatures around 20°C (68°F), with highs reaching 23°C (74°F) and lows around 16°C (61°F). The sea temperature remains warm enough for swimming at around 23°C (73°F).

Packing essentials:

• Comfortable walking shoes (heeled shoes are not recommended due to uneven stairs, sidewalks, and cobblestones)

• Light jacket for evenings

• Comfortable clothes suitable for walking

• Swimwear (sea is still warm!)

• Light rain jacket (there's a chance of some rain)

 

Accommodation

Q: Are laundry facilities available at the villa?

Yes, the villa has a laundry room with a washer and drying rack.

 

Local Customs & Etiquette

Q: Are there dress codes for religious sites?

Women are requested to cover their shoulders and wear clothing that extends to at least the knee (long skirts/dresses or long pants) when visiting churches and monasteries.

Q: What are the tipping expectations?

Tipping isn't typically expected in Greece. However, rounding up the bill or leaving small change for good service at restaurants is appreciated but not obligatory.

Q: I heard you shouldn't sit in the front row at outdoor restaurant tables - is this true?

Yes, in tourist areas (such as seaside Chania) you will be approached by people selling trinkets if you sit at outside tables, especially those closest to the street.

Q: Are public toilets different there?

We haven't encountered pay toilets, but there is one important difference: toilet paper should be placed in the trash can, not flushed down the toilet.

Q: Any other local customs to be aware of?

The main things to keep in mind are the church dress code and toilet paper disposal - otherwise, local customs are quite similar to what you'd expect in most Mediterranean destinations.

 

Language & Communication

Q: Will we experience language barriers?

English is widely spoken throughout the area, and most signs include English translations. We'll provide you with a list of common Greek greetings and courtesy phrases to help enhance your experience.

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Communication while in Greece

Q: How to communicate with the group while in Greece?

Check first with your cell provider about international options for Greece. We make sure that we have voice calling in case of an emergency when traveling abroad, though we've never actually needed it. You might want to do the same for peace of mind. 

Our setup: We have T-Mobile, which gives us free texting to US numbers. We'll create a group text chat for everyone while we're there.

Other communication options: We also use WhatsApp, GoogleVoice, Messenger, and Viber if you prefer those.

WiFi availability: Our villa has WiFi, and nearly all cafes and restaurants offer free WiFi to customers.

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Safety

Q: Any safety tips?

Use good reason and common sense - but it's a very safe place to travel.