Tag: Rethymno

Crete Begins Migrant Transfers to Piraeus Amid Overwhelming Arrivals

Crete is grappling with an unprecedented migrant surge, with over 2,600 arrivals straining local resources. Starting today, authorities are transferring migrants from Rethymno to Piraeus via ferries for processing in mainland Reception Centers. A fishing vessel carrying 520 migrants was intercepted south of Gavdos, while hundreds more are housed in makeshift shelters in Chania and Rethymno. Local officials warn of an “unmanageable” crisis, urging government action as the Hellenic Red Cross provides critical aid.

Agia Galini Standoff: Crete Residents Confront Migrant Transfers

In the quiet coastal village of Agia Galini, Crete, tensions boiled over last night as 150 migrants arrived at the port under Frontex escort. Local residents, frustrated by the island’s strained resources, blocked buses meant to transport the newcomers, sparking a standoff. With over 1,200 migrants landing on Crete in just 48 hours, the island grapples with a deepening crisis amid a heatwave and limited infrastructure. The mayor is set to address the unrest today as more arrivals are reported in Paleochora and Kaloi Limenes.

Crete’s Journey to Australia

A vibrant celebration of Cretan culture and volunteerism took place in Canberra, where Ms. Despina Mavraki of the Rethymno Volunteer Blood Donors Association “Dotes Zois” joined the Greek Diaspora to honor the 45th anniversary of the Pan-Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand. The visit, filled with emotion and pride, featured a symbolic gift of the Holy Four New Martyrs icon, a lively Cretan Strata-Kantada, and a heartfelt message of unity and hope.

Crete Overwhelmed by Over 1,000 Migrant Arrivals in Hours

Crete is facing an unprecedented migrant surge, with over 1,000 arrivals in recent hours overwhelming the island’s reception facilities. Hundreds were redirected from Agia to Rethymno’s port due to overcrowding, while the Coast Guard rescued 230 more migrants off Gavdos, highlighting the ongoing crisis driven by relentless trafficking from Libya.

Cretan Diet Honoured as a European Model for Health and Longevity

Crete has been named the European Region of Gastronomy for 2026, honoring its rich culinary heritage, health-promoting Cretan diet, and commitment to sustainable, authentic food culture. From world-renowned olive oil and PDO cheeses to herbal teas and traditional dishes like dakos and antikristo, Crete offers a unique gastronomic experience rooted in history, biodiversity, and hospitality — now officially recognized on a European stage.

Crete Extends Tourism Season into Late Autumn as Demand Grows

Crete is extending its tourism season this year, with several resorts planning to remain open until the end of November and some even welcoming guests through December. Manolis Tsakalakis, president of the Crete Hoteliers’ Association, noted that increased demand from British tour operators, including TUI and Alltours, is driving this change. As a result, popular areas like Rethymno and Heraklion will see a boost in tourist flows, providing economic benefits to the island during the typically quieter months.

Two Suspects Detained in Assault on French Tourist in Rethymno

Two men have been placed in pretrial detention following the assault of a 26-year-old French tourist in Rethymno, Crete, which left the victim with serious head and facial injuries. The charges were upgraded from a misdemeanour to a felony by the Rethymno Misdemeanour Court. Two other suspects were released but will still face trial, with video evidence suggesting that the altercation involved the tourist and his group.

Uh-oh! It looks like you're using an ad blocker.

Our website relies on ads to provide free content and sustain our operations. By turning off your ad blocker, you help support us and ensure we can continue offering valuable content without any cost to you.

We truly appreciate your understanding and support. Thank you for considering disabling your ad blocker for this website