A Visit to the island of Crete

 In June Mandy flew into Stanstead airport from Sweden and we stopped at The Fox and Hounds pub in Newbury for a spot of lunch.

We then booked a trip to the Greek Island of Crete.  We flew from Cardiff airport and our base was the Marie Kelley apartments in the coastal town of Gouves.

Gouves, Crete, had the charm of a small, peaceful village nestled along the northern coast of the island. Its relaxed atmosphere invited you to slow down and soak in the simple pleasures of Greek life. The beach area, though modest, offered soft sands and the warm, gentle waters of the Mediterranean, perfect for an afternoon swim or a quiet walk. Tavernas dotted the shore, with locals serving up fresh seafood and traditional Cretan dishes, while the surrounding landscape was a mix of olive groves and rugged hills. It was a place where time seemed to stretch, offering a laid-back escape from the rush of modern life.

On a very hot day, we took a trip out to the town of Agious Nikolas, we stolled around the harbour but it really too hot to walk far.

We jumped on a pleasure boat  visited the island of Spinalona which once housed a leper colony.

The island, with its haunting history as a former leper colony, has an eerie but fascinating atmosphere. Walking through its stone alleyways, we could feel the weight of its past, with the crumbling houses and Venetian fortifications offering a window into a time long gone. The island is framed by stunning views of the azure waters of the Mirabello Bay, which contrast with its somber history.

Opposite the island lies the charming port town of Plaka. With its quaint tavernas lining the waterfront, we enjoyed the peaceful vibe, watching the fishing boats bobbing gently in the crystal-clear waters. From the port, Spinalonga seemed serene, a world unto itself, waiting to be explored. The experience was a beautiful balance between history and the tranquility of the Cretan sea.

Gavle, Sweden 2001

In June 2001, Rob boarded a flight from the UK to Arlanda Airport in Sweden, The flight to Arlanda was smooth, with the green and blue patchwork of Sweden’s forests and lakes visible as we descended. As soon as Rob stepped off the plane, Rob noticed how fresh and crisp the air was, with that unmistakable northern chill, even in June. The airport felt relaxed and efficient, and within no time, Rob  found himself in the bustling arrivals area, following signs for the train station.

The Swedish rail system was easy to navigate, and Rob  purchased hismy ticket to Gävle. The journey took about an hour and a half, and as the train sped through the countryside, Rob gazed out the window, mesmerized by the endless trees and shimmering lakes that seemed to dot the landscape every few minutes. 

Mandy was patiently waiting at the train station for Rob's arrival.

We decided to make the most of the day and took a drive out to Rullsand Beach, a place Mandy had told me so much about. As we left the town, the Swedish countryside unfolded around us, a mix of dense forests, serene lakes, and stretches of open fields. The drive itself was beautiful, with quiet roads and wide, open skies.

Arriving at Rullsand Beach was like stepping into a postcard. The sand stretched out in gentle, pale swathes, bordered by green pines and low dunes. The water was strikingly clear, reflecting the blue of the sky and shimmering in the sunlight. There was a peacefulness about the place – it was as if time had slowed down just for us. We walked along the shoreline, the sand soft beneath our feet and the gentle sound of waves rolling in. The air was fresh and had that crisp, clean quality that feels so unique to northern beaches.

After wandering through the town and taking in the sights, we found ourselves at a small, quirky Crazy Golf course, tucked away just off the main path. It was one of those spontaneous decisions – we spotted the sign, shared a grin, and decided that a friendly game was in order. Mandy took the first shot, showing off her competitive spirit, and I quickly realized I was up against a pro !