by : Keith Mcgregor

A magical island filled with a multitude of wild flowers – around2,000 in all. Of these 2,000 around 200 are found growing wild only onCrete. From orchids to peonies, from crocus to wild iris, whatever theseason there is always something special to be found. Of all theflowers, Crete’s orchids are the most famous and abundant. Botanists,artists and photographers come from around the world to enjoy theirbeauty. This floral paradise is easily accessible from northern Europeand is just a short flight from many major airports. Now that Easy Jetis making direct flights to the island from the UK and other carriersare waking up to the potential for tourism other than just sandybeaches and hot sun, the market for all kind of visitors is opening up.

Cretan Traditional Homes – are attractive and blend into thelandscape, completely unlike the modern concrete blocks in seasidetourist areas. More and more people are turning to the stone builthouses which cost a little more to build but are much more adaptable tothe hot sun and have minimal upkeep since once the stone is sealed itwill withstand the elements for many years.

One of the problems we have come across for prospective purchasersis that more and more of them are wanting to rent out properties forextra income until they retire, and in order to do long term rentals itis necessary to have an EOT licence this is a licence issued by theGreek tourist Board to guarantee a certain standard and size of rooms.The whole mystique of gaining an EOT licence seems to be quite hard tofathom and therefore are inclined to advise people when building to build to the EOT sizingstandards and this enables them to either apply for a licence, or totell future purchasers that they can do so. This means that they canoptimise their investment.

Investment in is still very sound and expanding every year – and there are various experts that cover the whole of Crete and aims to offer a knowledgeable and personal service to all enquires.