My trip is approaching its end as I leave Crete to start my journey home. One last day to enjoy Chania before I head to Athens.

This will be a quiet day, I’m eager just to sit in a cafe, go to the beach and enjoy Chania.

This place was recommended as a good place for a coffee, on the harbor. I sat for nearly two hours doing some writing, some reading and some people watching.

This is the largest pistachio croissant I’ve ever seen. And it is delicious. Freddo Cappuccino is yum.

I walk thru the winding streets, amazed by the colors and architecture.

I head to a beach club closeby for lunch and some reading.

I have lunch and plan on reading a book but meet a guy from the UK, Ronnie, and we share travel stories. We also talk about what is going on in the world and I’m very impressed by his awareness of the US political scene. We agree that the global political environment is complex and confusing and broken.

One last island sunset. I will miss these. Always a time to pause and reflect.

My last island dinner? Mexican inspired by Greek cuisine. My friend Katerina in Rethymno recommended this restaurant, obviously very unique in Greece! Her friend Dimitrias opened it after spending time in Mexico. It’s a 10 minute easy taxi ride.

It’s very good but at this point it is 10 pm and I’m anxious to get back to hotel to pack my stuff. But…no taxis. This is a problem in Chania, I learn. Too many people and not enough taxis. No Uber. I ask my hotel to help via WhatsApp and now my phone is at 20% power. I debate walking but now I’m afraid my phone will die and I’ll get lost. Another How the fuck did I get here moment. It’s now 11, the owner brings me another drink and now I’m stressing. But in Greece they always say We will find a solution.

A sweet young man from the kitchen offers to take me on his motorcycle. They all work to find a helmet and we are off.

I’m thankful for the kindness, which I find everywhere in Greece. Except maybe for taxi drivers in Chania…

As I say goodbye to Crete, I reflect on the diversity of the island. It’s really a beautiful place. It’s also made me appreciate the smaller Greek islands, I think more suited for a solo traveler. But I know I had to come to experience it on my own.

I stand behind my feelings before this trip – I haven’t met a Greek Island I didn’t like. ❤️

Back to Athens!! Goodbye Greek Islands at least until next year.