Crete, which is Greece’s largest island, has had far fewer cases than most of the rest of country, which means that it’s likely to be very popular this year for visitors seeking a worry-free holiday away from the crowds.

From bargain flights, to off the beaten track sights and super-friendly service, here are five reasons to travel to Crete now - before everyone else does.

GREAT VALUE FLIGHTS

With the news that Greece plans to open its borders to most countries on July 1, budget airlines - including Easyjet and Jet2 - are ramping up flight offerings and there are huge bargains to be had – especially in early July when flights start operating.

As the world emerges from several months of lockdown, many airlines are also offering some great incentives that give passengers protection and flexibility.

On their website, low cost airline Easyjet states: ‘if you currently have a booking with us but would prefer not to fly … You can now change your flight online and we will waive the flight change fee. This applies to all existing and new bookings until further notice.’

Whilst UK flag carrier British Airways says: ‘You can change your destination, date of travel, or both, with no change fee for all new bookings made up to July 31, 2020 for travel between now and December 31, 2020’.

BEACHES AND SIGHTS WITHOUT THE CROWDS

With Crete being promoted worldwide as a safe post-covid-19 destination, the island that invented the healthy Mediterranean Diet is likely to be very popular this year.

Luckily, Greece’s largest island is packed with pristine beaches where it’s easy to get a tan whilst respecting social distancing. This mountainous island is also crammed with spectacular sights – many of them way off the beaten path. From desert island atolls to far-flung traditional villages, follow this link to discover Three Must-Not-Miss Hidden Gems near Abaton Island Resort & Spa.

LUXURY AT BARGAIN PRICES

Accommodation is likely to be keenly priced when Greek hotels open for business at the beginning of July, especially in Crete where only a small proportion of the island’s luxury hotels will open for business this year.

Close to the laidback resort of Hersonissos in the peaceful eastern half of Crete Island, Abaton Island Resort & Spa has blissfully private rooms, lofts and suites, many with private pools. “At Abaton Island we are having a 25% sale on rooms in July and rooms will be fully refundable - even on the day of arrival we accept cancellations,” says owner Georgios Kaloutsakis. “As long as we have capacity available we will also be offering free upgrades. Since we aren’t expecting huge crowds in July, there’s a huge chance that you will be enjoying one of our beaches by yourself in total privacy,” he adds.

FABULOUS WARM WEATHER

The weather is balmy most of the year round on this island surrounded by the sparkling southern Aegean Sea, but July is the ideal time to visit Crete. Days are longer at this time of the year and temperatures are generally lower: just perfect for lazy days by the pool and warm evenings sipping handcrafted cocktails on your private terrace.

Beach lovers will also be glad to know that the sea, which is occasionally whisked by brisk winds in August, tends to be calmer in July.

WORRY-FREE HOLIDAYS

From July 1 the Greek government has announced that borders will be open to overseas visitors (including the UK) and direct flights will resume to all parts of the country, including Crete. Although there will be random virus testing at the airports, visitors will no longer need to spend any time in quarantine.

In the unlikely case that visitors should contract the virus, the Greek government has also confirmed that they will cover the costs of accommodation, food and drink, and coronavirus treatment for both patients and their families - just one more reasons to choose Crete for your worry-free holiday.

EVEN BETTER SERVICE THAN USUAL

Service on this island renowned for its philoxenia (love of the stranger) has always been excellent, but as Cretans rejoice at the reopening of their shops, hotels, restaurants and cafes, you can be certain that they will be overjoyed to see you.

Be the first to visit this island where god of hospitality Zeus was born and you’re guaranteed to enjoy a warm welcome, along with extra-attentive service. Kαλό σας ήλθατε! We look forward to welcoming you soon!