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If you are planning a trip to Peru, you are almost certainly going to have to stay in Lima for at least a day or two. We stayed in lima for two nights and had some fun experiences we will share with you while we were there! We also will share many tips that would have been nice to know prior to our trip!<h2>Where to Stay</h2>There are basically three main areas that tourists should stay in to be safe and have a lot of options for things to do. 1. Miraflores (main tourist spot) 2. Barranco (more trendy/younger tourist spot)&nbsp; 3. San Isidro (the nice/expensive tourist spot) We stayed in Miraflores at a hotel called <a data-mce-href="https://booking.tp.st/sbZmn7BS" href="https://booking.tp.st/sbZmn7BS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Casona Azul﻿</a> which was amazing! They have their own private rooftop kitchen that includes free breakfast, the hotel is in a central location right next to both the boardwalk and the downtown, and the hosts are so kind and helpful. It was also very affordable for how nice the hotel is!<figure id="figure-6kfrqcw16lnv2xonv"><img id="6kfrqcw16lnv2xonv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39i23qTHUmoyBiwozXUhwY2BDJiPs6nOxsuaaNtP6A0t2zfBEKIbYXCsdagTcqsv.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 90%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Outside La Casona Azul" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="90%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39i23qTHUmoyBiwozXUhwY2BDJiPs6nOxsuaaNtP6A0t2zfBEKIbYXCsdagTcqsv.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 90%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Outside <a data-mce-href="https://booking.tp.st/sbZmn7BS" href="https://booking.tp.st/sbZmn7BS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Casona Azul</a></figcaption></figure>However, we loved the area of Barranco the most. It had the coolest bars and coffee shops and there were lots of things to see when walking around! There is a hotel in Barranco called <a data-mce-href="https://booking.tp.st/HiO1uAoV" href="https://booking.tp.st/HiO1uAoV" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel B </a>which is a little pricier, but definitely worth it. It is right in the center of Barranco and is so nice! We didn't end up staying here but we went inside and looked around because we had heard great things prior to our trip.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-4eqsifjxi8lnv32xfz"><img id="4eqsifjxi8lnv32xfz" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39sZ3H4YOexXoFc6ZjTvfyXTqY7GwfCmmT1uo0XP5II7dwC1ofSziZSGIuLnksg8.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined 100%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Hotel B in Barranco" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="100%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39sZ3H4YOexXoFc6ZjTvfyXTqY7GwfCmmT1uo0XP5II7dwC1ofSziZSGIuLnksg8.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined 100%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2"><a data-mce-href="https://booking.tp.st/HiO1uAoV" href="https://booking.tp.st/HiO1uAoV" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel B in Barranco</a></figcaption></figure><h2>Miraflores</h2>1. Kennedy Park2. Mercado Nº 1 de Surquillo 3. Walk the board walk&nbsp;4. <a data-mce-href="https://viator.tp.st/8my5prLt" href="https://viator.tp.st/8my5prLt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Paragliding</a>5. <a data-mce-href="https://viator.tp.st/6RT5pmVT" href="https://viator.tp.st/6RT5pmVT" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Food Tour</a>On our first day, we woke up and had breakfast at our hotel on the rooftop patio. Our host then told us the best place to get cash out and get sim cards for your phones which is on the street <a data-mce-href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Av.+Jos%C3%A9+Larco,+Miraflores+15074,+Peru/@-12.1255017,-77.0319874,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x9105c81ec5d54d07:0xe9df3ef854963a95!8m2!3d-12.125507!4d-77.0294125!16s%2Fm%2F03y03s3?entry=ttu" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Av.+Jos%C3%A9+Larco,+Miraflores+15074,+Peru/@-12.1255017,-77.0319874,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x9105c81ec5d54d07:0xe9df3ef854963a95!8m2!3d-12.125507!4d-77.0294125!16s%2Fm%2F03y03s3?entry=ttu" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Av. Jose Larco</a>. The street has both multiple banks and phone companies you can choose from. This street also takes you strait to Kennedy Park which is the center of Miraflores!1 . Kennedy Park is known for something unique which is that it is home to hundreds of stray cats!&nbsp; Don't worry, the cats are fed food and water from the city, but as your walking through the park, you will see cats sleeping or walking everywhere. The park is also home to a beautiful church called Iglesia Virgen Milagrosa.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-uhbvg41la9lnv3deya"><img id="uhbvg41la9lnv3deya" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9BNrzksAgslrTCR4ELc0erpH3tYLT4hLq0yN9ykDd6PO2Fedpf0m0B9ie3kEVNZH.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center 100%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="Church in Kennedy Square" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="100%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9BNrzksAgslrTCR4ELc0erpH3tYLT4hLq0yN9ykDd6PO2Fedpf0m0B9ie3kEVNZH.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center 100%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Church in Kennedy Square</figcaption></figure>2.&nbsp; After exploring the city center, we walked over to Mercado Nº 1 de Surquillo which is basically a huge market that has everything! If you want a more local experience, you definitely have to go explore here!<figure id="figure-hq947lrimlnv3efu8"><img id="hq947lrimlnv3efu8" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35QUkosrmBt8vblQcFbZpbfukSR2v470P77vmTkJDuwHBqG44oH7d0oeyaD1WS5L.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center 60%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Picture from the Market" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="60%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35QUkosrmBt8vblQcFbZpbfukSR2v470P77vmTkJDuwHBqG44oH7d0oeyaD1WS5L.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center 60%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Picture from the Market</figcaption></figure>3. You can walk or bike the board walk from Miraflores to Barranco in about 30 min. The walk is full of different parks that are set along the water with the most popular one being Parque Del Amor (Love Park). There is also a cool outdoor mall and market on the walk which is right on the water!4. We planned on doing paragliding on the board walk in Lima through blank and unfortunately were not allowed because it was too windy, but we highly recommend it because it is affordable, and you have the best views of the city!5. The most prominent thing Lima is known for is its food, so we spent a lot of time trying to find the best places to eat! One of the best ways is to start off your trip with a food tour. We did ours through <a data-mce-href="https://viator.tp.st/6RT5pmVT" href="https://viator.tp.st/6RT5pmVT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Exquisito Perú</a> and it was incredible! We guarantee you will try foods you have never had before, and you will for leave full. The guides of the tour also share with you the best restaurants in the area, so you have places to go during the rest of your time in Lima. Do not hesitate to book this tour! <h2>Where to Eat!</h2>1. <a data-mce-href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d1783121-Reviews-Manolo-Lima_Lima_Region.html" href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d1783121-Reviews-Manolo-Lima_Lima_Region.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Manolo Cafe</a> - Miraflores2. <a data-mce-href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d2708680-Reviews-La_Lucha_Sangucheria_Criolla-Lima_Lima_Region.html" href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d2708680-Reviews-La_Lucha_Sangucheria_Criolla-Lima_Lima_Region.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Lucha Sangucheria Criolla</a> - Miraflores3. <a data-mce-href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d15791810-Reviews-Caleta_Dolsa-Lima_Lima_Region.html" href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d15791810-Reviews-Caleta_Dolsa-Lima_Lima_Region.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Caleta Dolsa Coffee</a> - Barranco4. <a data-mce-href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d7624206-Reviews-Isolina-Lima_Lima_Region.html" href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d7624206-Reviews-Isolina-Lima_Lima_Region.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Isolina</a> - Barranco5. <a data-mce-href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d1977571-Reviews-Ayahuasca_Resto_Bar-Lima_Lima_Region.html" href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d1977571-Reviews-Ayahuasca_Resto_Bar-Lima_Lima_Region.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ayahuasca</a> - Barranco 6. <a data-mce-href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d15076742-Reviews-Kjolle-Lima_Lima_Region.html" href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294316-d15076742-Reviews-Kjolle-Lima_Lima_Region.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kjolle</a> - Barranco1. Manolo Cafe is a must when visiting Lima!! It has churros dipped in chocolate and they are some of the best churros you will ever have!2. La Lucha Sangucheria Criolla is a famous sandwich spot where you can get Peruvian sandwiches for decent prices! We had a pork sandwich and for lunch and it was good. It is also super close to the main square in Miraflores!3. Isolina is the restaurant we went to dinner at our first night in Lima and it didn't disappoint. The restaurant is all about traditional Peruvian meals and cocktails. The portions are Huge!! This was probably our favorite spot we ate at in Lima.4. Ayahuasca is a bar that is set in an old mansion and its super fun! We went here just for drinks, and they were delicious, but the vibes were even cooler! <figure id="figure-363gl7miu9lnv3hp6t"><img id="363gl7miu9lnv3hp6t" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aKosFuAqV6KkHMaXNMyENNFuyucDukzldAH9IvT3VGgWDgW7zYrIgcTZBTdgum9.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined 30%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="30%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aKosFuAqV6KkHMaXNMyENNFuyucDukzldAH9IvT3VGgWDgW7zYrIgcTZBTdgum9.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined 30%;"></figure>5.&nbsp; Kjolle is where we went to dinner our second night. This restaurant is definitely on the pricier side, but it is so worth it! The seafood here was incredible!<h2>Things to Know</h2>Since Lima is most likely your first stop in Peru, here is a list of things
you should know before you go!1.&nbsp; Use Uber to get around! Uber was cheap and extremely easy to use in
Lima. It also has a set price, so you know you aren’t going to get ripped off.2. Try Ceviche and Pisco Sours while in Lima! These were the best in Lima
out of all the places we went in Peru.3. Use <a href="https://www.cruzdelsur.com.pe/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://www.cruzdelsur.com.pe/">Cruz del Sur</a>
busses to take day trips or get to your next location. The busses were cheap
and comfortable. You can book trips through their website online before your
trip to make sure you have a spot.&nbsp;4. If you like city vibes you should spend more time in the city but for us,
we personally loved other parts of Peru more outside of the big city.5. Go to Huacachina! This place is a four-hour bus ride from Lima and we
some of the most fun on the trip here! It is so worth it! We will be writing
another itinerary just on Huacachina so stay tuned!Please reach out on our home page if you have any questions!

Lima Peru Itinerary

<h3>GREECE PACKING LIST</h3>Here is our packing list that we used for our 2 week trip to Greece along with some links to some of the stuff we have bought and loved!<figure id="figure-z19vw97ueylo3qtsl4"><img id="z19vw97ueylo3qtsl4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/55Ebqsohp1JDErmJQ10keOEnKMfERXLLEOiug7ICsKHpgWX4AyFPSIvSzgjBLyPE.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center 65%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="65%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/55Ebqsohp1JDErmJQ10keOEnKMfERXLLEOiug7ICsKHpgWX4AyFPSIvSzgjBLyPE.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center 65%;"></figure> <h3>Miscellaneous Essentials </h3>1.&nbsp; &nbsp; ID and passport&nbsp; 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/3LZjUJ9" href="https://amzn.to/3LZjUJ9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sunglasses </a>(These are the ones Jackson has) 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/3M57yiL" href="https://amzn.to/3M57yiL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fanny pack</a> (These are a necessity!) 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/46G8mTL" href="https://amzn.to/46G8mTL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ziplock bags</a> 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;International Drivers License (if you are renting a car) 6. &nbsp; &nbsp;Cash (we usually get it in an atm when we are there) 7. &nbsp; &nbsp;Wallet 8. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/492Tctd" href="https://amzn.to/492Tctd" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Water Bottle&nbsp; (This water bottle is a life saver)</a> 9. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/45zZb5G" href="https://amzn.to/45zZb5G" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Electrolyte Powder</a> 10.&nbsp; Deck of Cards<h3>Airplane&nbsp;</h3>1. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/3RXSBD7" href="https://amzn.to/3RXSBD7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Headphones&nbsp;</a> 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;Gum&nbsp; 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;Book to read on the plane 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/48XPuRo" href="https://amzn.to/48XPuRo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sleep eye mask&nbsp;</a> 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;Snacks 6. &nbsp; &nbsp;Hand Sanitizer/Wipes 7. &nbsp; <a data-mce-href="<iframe%20sandbox=&quot;allow-popups%20allow-scripts%20allow-modals%20allow-forms%20allow-same-origin&quot;%20style=&quot;width:120px;height:240px;&quot;%20marginwidth=&quot;0&quot;%20marginheight=&quot;0&quot;%20scrolling=&quot;no&quot;%20frameborder=&quot;0&quot;%20src=&quot;/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;OneJS=1&amp;Operation=GetAdHtml&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;source=ss&amp;ref=as_ss_li_til&amp;ad_type=product_link&amp;tracking_id=cornholeking-20&amp;language=en_US&amp;marketplace=amazon&amp;region=US&amp;placement=B0C2TFKTMY&amp;asins=B0C2TFKTMY&amp;linkId=d3b69363f5db2f0561cb93b3b7ecdec4&amp;show_border=true&amp;link_opens_in_new_window=true&quot;></iframe>" href="<iframe%20sandbox=&quot;allow-popups%20allow-scripts%20allow-modals%20allow-forms%20allow-same-origin&quot;%20style=&quot;width:120px;height:240px;&quot;%20marginwidth=&quot;0&quot;%20marginheight=&quot;0&quot;%20scrolling=&quot;no&quot;%20frameborder=&quot;0&quot;%20src=&quot;/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;OneJS=1&amp;Operation=GetAdHtml&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;source=ss&amp;ref=as_ss_li_til&amp;ad_type=product_link&amp;tracking_id=cornholeking-20&amp;language=en_US&amp;marketplace=amazon&amp;region=US&amp;placement=B0C2TFKTMY&amp;asins=B0C2TFKTMY&amp;linkId=d3b69363f5db2f0561cb93b3b7ecdec4&amp;show_border=true&amp;link_opens_in_new_window=true&quot;></iframe>" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;Hat clip</a>&nbsp;<h3>Toiletries&nbsp;</h3>1. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/45tGJMh" href="https://amzn.to/45tGJMh" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Toothbrushes&nbsp;</a> 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/46CIbgz" href="https://amzn.to/46CIbgz" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Toothpaste</a> 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;Floss (mini) 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/497nivM" href="https://amzn.to/497nivM" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aquaphor / ChapStick&nbsp;</a> 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;Sunscreen&nbsp; 6. &nbsp; &nbsp;Razor&nbsp; 7. &nbsp; &nbsp;Tweezers 8. &nbsp; &nbsp;Hair ties &amp; Hairbrush 9. &nbsp; &nbsp;Deodorant&nbsp; 10.&nbsp; Cologne/perfume&nbsp; 11.&nbsp; Nail clippers 12.&nbsp; Antiseptic Cream &amp; Band-Aids&nbsp; 13.&nbsp; &nbsp;Insect Repellent 14.&nbsp; &nbsp;Ibuprofen 15.&nbsp; &nbsp;Benadryl<h3>Electronics</h3>Here are some of the basics for electronics, but if you want to see our entire camera set up click here!1. &nbsp; &nbsp;Phone 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/3ZVsYol" href="https://amzn.to/3ZVsYol" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Phone chargers&nbsp;</a> 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/3S25v2R" href="https://amzn.to/3S25v2R" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Portable chargers</a> 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;Camera &nbsp;(click here to find our entire camera setup!!) 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/3FiRk1F" href="https://amzn.to/3FiRk1F" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Polaroid</a> 6. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/3QviDwq" href="https://amzn.to/3QviDwq" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Water proof phone case</a><h3>Clothes&nbsp;</h3>We spent our time in Greece in September so for the most part, we needed to pack for sunny weather, however, the wind is no joke in greece so you will need some layers just in case you get caught it in!1. &nbsp; &nbsp;Tops&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;a) &nbsp; &nbsp;Tank tops&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b) &nbsp; &nbsp;Short sleeve&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c) &nbsp; &nbsp;Sweater&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;d) &nbsp; &nbsp;Overalls&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;e) &nbsp; &nbsp;Dresses&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;f) &nbsp; &nbsp;Jacket 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;Bottoms &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;a) &nbsp; &nbsp;Black Leggings&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b) &nbsp; &nbsp;Biker Shorts&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c) &nbsp; &nbsp;Skirts &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;d) &nbsp; &nbsp;Flowy pants&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;e) &nbsp; &nbsp;Jean shorts&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;f) &nbsp; &nbsp;Tank tops&nbsp; 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;Undergarments &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;a) &nbsp; &nbsp;Swimsuit&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b) &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/46WL5wm" href="https://amzn.to/46WL5wm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">No-show socks&nbsp;</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c) &nbsp; &nbsp;Underwear/Bras 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/40aTEkU" href="https://amzn.to/40aTEkU" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pjs&nbsp;</a> 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/3rWltkD" href="https://amzn.to/3rWltkD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sunhat</a> 6. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/3s5zpsu" href="https://amzn.to/3s5zpsu" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tennis shoes</a>&nbsp; 7. &nbsp; &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/3tItWZd" href="https://amzn.to/3tItWZd" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sandals/Flipflops</a> Hope this helps plan your trip! Have Fun!!!

Greece Packing List

Out of all the islands we went to in Greece, Chania was by far our favorite! It was the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. If you want to take a break from all the tourists you will be around in Santorini or Mykonos, then put Crete in your itinerary! Our blog will show you unique experiences and places to stay that I promise you will not find in a simple google search.We spent a total of 5 days/4nights in Chania!<h2>Day 1: Getting There</h2>If you are thinking about going to Crete, you are probably debating whether you should take a ferry or a plane there. Well, we took a plane and would advise you to do so as well! Island hopping on planes in Greece is close to the same price as a ferry but with way less hassle and way less time traveling. Also, if you get to Crete through the airport, you can easily rent a car (which we highly recommend) and take a beautiful drive into Old Town Chania. <a data-mce-href="https://rentalcars.tp.st/e2YLvg5Z" href="https://rentalcars.tp.st/e2YLvg5Z" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(We used rentalcars.com)﻿</a>First StopOkay we are about to tell you one of our favorite experiences on our entire trip to Greece......It was our hotel in Chania, <a data-mce-href="https://booking.tp.st/TxmPO3aP" href="https://booking.tp.st/TxmPO3aP" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Maison Ottomane!</a>I take that back. La Maison Ottomane is not just our favorite hotel in Greece, but it has been our favorite hotel so far ever! This boutique hotel is in the heart of Chania and is literally walking distance from everywhere you would want to see in the city. It also has free parking available which is so rare to find in Chania!When you step into your room of the hotel, it is like stepping back in time to the 17th century with its intricate architecture, vintage furnishings, and Turkish culture. It is definitely the most beautifully decorated hotel we have stayed at. The owner Andreas is the kindest soul you will meet, and he goes out of his way to make your stay extravagant. From the drinks when we arrived, to the 5 star breakfasts each morning, to the luxury beds and rooms, you can not hesitate to book this hotel!&nbsp;<figure id="figure-gluprt5ur5lm01lnsc"><img id="gluprt5ur5lm01lnsc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3BRe1Us3anoyarzrWkARsZWAPX8PsUC9PLRmBfC33A0wKSQQf0oaOhDQC16H1kkG.jpg" alt="La Maison Ottomane Breakfast" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="small" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="Our breakfast spot each morning at La Maison Ottomane" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3BRe1Us3anoyarzrWkARsZWAPX8PsUC9PLRmBfC33A0wKSQQf0oaOhDQC16H1kkG.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Our breakfast spot each morning at <a data-mce-href="https://booking.tp.st/TxmPO3aP" href="https://booking.tp.st/TxmPO3aP" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Maison Ottomane</a></figcaption></figure>Next StopAfter we settled into our hotel it was getting late and we were hungry! So, we walked about 5 min and were surrounded by a ton of restaurants where you can eat outside. All of them that we tried are so good so honestly just pick one and enjoy! Here are some of the restaurants we loved when we were there:-&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189415-d808698-Reviews-KARIATIS_RESTAURANT_SUSHI_BAR-Chania_Town_Chania_Prefecture_Crete.html" data-mce-href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189415-d808698-Reviews-KARIATIS_RESTAURANT_SUSHI_BAR-Chania_Town_Chania_Prefecture_Crete.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kariatis Restaurant</a> - amazing pizza and wine!-&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189415-d3366445-Reviews-To_Koutourouki-Chania_Town_Chania_Prefecture_Crete.html" data-mce-href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189415-d3366445-Reviews-To_Koutourouki-Chania_Town_Chania_Prefecture_Crete.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Koutourouki </a>- great pastas and appetizers!-&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189415-d7788552-Reviews-Oasis_Souvlaki-Chania_Town_Chania_Prefecture_Crete.html" data-mce-href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g189415-d7788552-Reviews-Oasis_Souvlaki-Chania_Town_Chania_Prefecture_Crete.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oasis </a>- oldest and best souvlaki place in Chania!-&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.pallaschania.gr/" data-mce-href="https://www.pallaschania.gr/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pallas </a>- best sushi we found in Greece and amazing views! <h2>Day 2: Ring Making</h2>First off, we started our day a little hungover from all the excitement and good food. It also didn't help that most restaurants give free raki (Crete's most famous alcoholic beverage) after each meal!! If you are going to Greece do yourself a favor and get liquid iv. We always have <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Liquid-I-V-Multiplier-Electrolyte-Supplement/dp/B01IT9NLHW?keywords=liquid%2Biv&amp;qid=1693541260&amp;sprefix=liqu%2Caps%2C180&amp;sr=8-2-spons&amp;sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&amp;th=1&amp;linkCode=sl1&amp;tag=cornholeking-20&amp;linkId=79a696acae3995b09db8ff040e913ed0&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl" data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Liquid-I-V-Multiplier-Electrolyte-Supplement/dp/B01IT9NLHW?keywords=liquid%2Biv&amp;qid=1693541260&amp;sprefix=liqu%2Caps%2C180&amp;sr=8-2-spons&amp;sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&amp;th=1&amp;linkCode=sl1&amp;tag=cornholeking-20&amp;linkId=79a696acae3995b09db8ff040e913ed0&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">this one </a>wherever we go.After our amazing breakfast we went on an awesome adventure which was to drive outside the main city to <a href="https://www.manousakiswinery.com/" data-mce-href="https://www.manousakiswinery.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Manousaki Winery</a> and become goldsmiths for the day! If we could recommend one thing to do in Crete that is outside the ordinary, it would be this experience. You get to sand cast your own jewelry at a beautiful winery while drinking the best wine on the island. It doesn’t get much better than that. We made our wedding bands while we were there!&nbsp;<figure id="figure-hvon46t3q5lm03c9de"><img id="hvon46t3q5lm03c9de" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29nPWRD9zWxXShTpQTmaxuPJ8AA9TUQ1VhFgZcHDneOQwGIM3dLhebwDBdKXlWfP.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined 80%;" data-corners="small" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="The finished product!" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="80%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29nPWRD9zWxXShTpQTmaxuPJ8AA9TUQ1VhFgZcHDneOQwGIM3dLhebwDBdKXlWfP.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined 80%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">The finished product!</figcaption></figure>Not to mention, you also get a full Cretan feast served by the restaurant (which is delicious) and it is all included in the price of the experience. Again, do not hesitate to book this experience! <a href="https://www.wildrockco.com/products/ancient-sand-casting-workshop" data-mce-href="https://www.wildrockco.com/products/ancient-sand-casting-workshop" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Here is a link to their website.</a>Part 2:After becoming blacksmiths for the day, we got back into old town Chania and did another super fun experience!&nbsp;We signed up for a local <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/2666250" data-mce-href="https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/2666250" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tour of Old Town Chania</a> which gave us such good insights to the best places to see and eat. Our guide even took us to her favorite bar and ordered drinks for us! It was a fun experience, and we highly recommend to do it early on your trip so learn about the culture of the island before you explore on your own! One of the best parts about the tour is we got to go to this hidden viewpoint that would be impossible to get to unless you were a local and knew the streets.<figure id="figure-u2111r94rclm042hm3"><img id="u2111r94rclm042hm3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/7HRRPeJNXauKjUNZMooVNf2LONYBMO5l6DhxbDajtVpwWfApeUGUmXxeEOEb4GA7.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center 15%;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="The hidden view point that overlooks the harbor!" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="15%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/7HRRPeJNXauKjUNZMooVNf2LONYBMO5l6DhxbDajtVpwWfApeUGUmXxeEOEb4GA7.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center 15%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">The hidden view point that overlooks the harbor!</figcaption></figure>Note: you will be doing a lot of walking in general in all of Greece so make sure you wear comfy shoes. <a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/45UgJtS" href="https://amzn.to/45UgJtS" title="hokas" target="_blank" rel="noopener">We both have these</a> and they are heaven!!<h2>Day 3: Beach Day</h2>If you have even thought about traveling to Chania, you have probably seen that the island has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world!&nbsp;The most famous beaches on the west side of Crete are Elafonisi Beach and Balos Beach, however..... we did not go to either. Since you came to our blog to find out of the ordinary experiences, we had to go to out of the ordinary beaches and we are so happy with our decision!!The first beach we went to was called Kalathas Beach and it was a very short drive from Chania. I kid you not, we were the only non-locals at the beach, and it was so much fun. There was a little shack that made beach cocktails and the water was crystal clear.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-zs9vzh0s4lm04k62c"><img id="zs9vzh0s4lm04k62c" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34eE1ynMmR2pfKmCC8qVH9NJh7hpWVvM3pC3KC4AyAncvu3Meprr5uJ98SFwAY6B.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined 100%;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Kalathas Beach!" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="100%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34eE1ynMmR2pfKmCC8qVH9NJh7hpWVvM3pC3KC4AyAncvu3Meprr5uJ98SFwAY6B.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined 100%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Kalathas Beach!</figcaption></figure>The next beach we went to was a little more of a drive (about 1 hour from town) and it was called Falasarna Beach. This beach is a little more known but does not even have close to the number of tourists you would see at Elafonisi and Balos Beach. The drive to the beach was so beautiful and we got to stop at multiple little huts that sold honey on the side of the road (Do this!!)The water at Falasarna Beach was even more clear than Kalathas and we also ordered cocktails and food on our rented lounge chairs. If you want to be surrounded by cruise ships and tourists go to the main beaches, but if you want something unique with the same amount of beauty follow our recommendations. (Btw we were recommended both these beaches by the locals who gave us our tour)Since we gave you our walking shoes recommendation here is also our travel water shoes! We use <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Birkenstock-Unisex-Arizona-Essentials-Sandals/dp/B01HQKSJMC?crid=2HPZ9TN5Y6NQH&amp;keywords=rubber%2Bbirkenstock%2Bsandals%2Bwomen&amp;qid=1693616677&amp;sprefix=rubber%2Bbirkenstock%2Bsandals%2Bwomen%2Caps%2C163&amp;sr=8-6&amp;th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=cornholeking-20&amp;linkId=721deecf89fbc692a73fbba8337a3211&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl" data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Birkenstock-Unisex-Arizona-Essentials-Sandals/dp/B01HQKSJMC?crid=2HPZ9TN5Y6NQH&amp;keywords=rubber%2Bbirkenstock%2Bsandals%2Bwomen&amp;qid=1693616677&amp;sprefix=rubber%2Bbirkenstock%2Bsandals%2Bwomen%2Caps%2C163&amp;sr=8-6&amp;th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=cornholeking-20&amp;linkId=721deecf89fbc692a73fbba8337a3211&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">these </a>basically anywhere we know our feet might get wet!<figure id="figure-bh6hhskd4olm04r5i5"><img id="bh6hhskd4olm04r5i5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/10lRfMBPJLVEuTthxSa4wjScLXSvA9cCDDmkzmUISyGJW9O3Cq3Q0EV4oAXhHB8Y.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined 60%;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="Falsarna Beach!" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="60%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/10lRfMBPJLVEuTthxSa4wjScLXSvA9cCDDmkzmUISyGJW9O3Cq3Q0EV4oAXhHB8Y.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined 60%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Falsarna Beach!</figcaption></figure><h2>Day 4: New Hotel!?</h2>So, day four was our last morning at <a data-mce-href="https://booking.tp.st/TxmPO3aP" href="https://booking.tp.st/TxmPO3aP" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Maison Ottomane</a> eating an incredible breakfast while watching the street cats walk by. Yes, I know it’s sad. However, the next hotel we checked into for our last night in Chania was also so much fun and so nice!We wanted to spend at least one night in a hotel that had a nice pool and beach view, so we chose <a data-mce-href="https://booking.tp.st/ox8yXubx" href="https://booking.tp.st/ox8yXubx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thelasa Beach Resort! ﻿</a>This resort was like a little slice of heaven. It is an adult only resort with a swim up bar and private beach.... After we checked in, we spent the rest of the night just relaxing and enjoying the resort.&nbsp;We highly recommend spending a minimum of one full day in Greece just relaxing because you can get tired fast with all the activities and walking you do. The hotel has its own restaurant, which was very good, but there are also lots of restaurants surrounding the resort that you can explore.<figure id="figure-1fcea3pwp6lm05gkad"><img id="1fcea3pwp6lm05gkad" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2mYVcEKuowNCYjN7zr5206BqbtyC6DIrTsGoQUX94ALjwIGqSWDg8031toioCtZR.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined 90%;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Our view from our room!" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="90%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2mYVcEKuowNCYjN7zr5206BqbtyC6DIrTsGoQUX94ALjwIGqSWDg8031toioCtZR.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined 90%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Our view from our room!</figcaption></figure><h2>Day 5: Wrapping Up</h2>We were both so sad knowing it was our last day in Chania before we moved on to Athens because we honestly fell in love with the island. Kaylie was especially sad leaving Thalasa Beach Resort. We ended up eating breakfast on the hotel deck overlooking the ocean and spending the rest of the day relaxing before he went back to the airport.We know we didn't talk a lot about what we did to explore the city and walk around to see the sights and that is because you can find all that stuff in any other blog about Chania. We wanted to focus on the more unique opportunities we got to do and spent a lot of time researching and finding.We had an amazing experience being in Chania Crete and wouldn't change a thing about our trip. We are definitely going to be back one day, and we already have two experiences we want to do on our list:<a href="https://viator.tp.st/42m5qZIr" data-mce-href="https://viator.tp.st/42m5qZIr" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Explore the White Mountains of Crete﻿</a> which we heard great things from some other travelers we met at dinner one night.and&nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://viator.tp.st/KS3kDv1y" href="https://viator.tp.st/KS3kDv1y" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Crete Wine and Olive Tour </a>- olive oil was a huge deal here so we think it would be really fun to try out this tour!To leave you, here are our top 10 quick tips for Chania, Crete.<ol><li>Rent a car</li><li>Eat as much Souvlaki as you can!</li><li>Try Raki</li><li>Avoid the restaurants right on the water</li><li>Wear comfortable shoes</li><li>Do a local tour</li><li>Get fresh honey</li><li>Go to at least one beach</li><li>Stay at <a data-mce-href="https://booking.tp.st/TxmPO3aP" href="https://booking.tp.st/TxmPO3aP" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Maison Ottomane</a> and <a data-mce-href="https://booking.tp.st/ox8yXubx" href="https://booking.tp.st/ox8yXubx" target="_blank">Thalasa Beach Resort</a></li><li>Do at least one thing completely outside your norm</li></ol>

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