|
Crete's weather - It's Great! You already know that, otherwise you wouldn't be considering to relocate to Crete in the first place but be prepared for log fires and or central heating in winter.
Four Seasons on Crete
Weather does have a direct bearing on running costs of a home though in the Mediterranean. There are four distinct seasons in Southern Greece. So let's take the rose tinted spectacles off for a moment. The weather in Crete from May to September is glorious every day almost guaranteed! There is a brief Autumn running through to November and a Spring in March and April. But, during these periods and through the winter from sometime in November, or even early December, the Crete climate can be more changeable, particularly in the mountains but rarely (touch wood) as bad as a winter in the UK. Crete's average temperature in wintertime is around 12-14°C. When the sun shines it can be hot, even in winter. Visitors from UK and Ireland would find it "shortsleeves" weather. But when it rains, it rains bucketfuls and it can go on for a few days too! The worst months consistently are in February and March.
Heating Costs in Winter
While Crete does not usually have 'four seasons in a day' type conditions, temperatures can rise and fall dramatically within a few hours. The compensation in winter when the outside conditions are inclement, is the cosy warmth and smell of a log fire burning inside the house. A supply of logs of Olive (Olea europaea L) or Carob Tree (Ceratonia siliqua L) for about 6-8 weeks can set you back between 130 - 180 euros (Winter 2007 - 8). Carob burns hotter, while Olive lasts longer. Central heating is a very personal choice. But can run between 4,000 to 7,000 euros per installation. Then there is the question of the ever increasing cost of oil (or gas) and where to store the supply securely.
Eating, Cretan Style in Winter
The winter food intake includes a greater use of fat in the diet. Pulses are more evident as is rice in oil-soaked pork or lamb stews and soups. Hunting is permitted so game, rabbit and hare appear more in the dishes. Cheese such as the rich and very high fat content soft, creamy mysythra, and the hard gravera cheeses are at their best. The products go hand in hand with the fattening of the sheep and goats for the traditional feasts of Epiphany (January 5th/6thth - the 12th Day of Christmas) and Easter.
The "off season" (non-tourist period) is also the best time to experience Crete at its most earthy and traditional. Although eating out becomes highly selective, due to many closed premises, the eating places that remain open are mainly for the local people and the offerings always fresh with the home cooked touch.
Other Useful Reference Pages on Ex Pat Living in Crete:
Schools for Foreign Children
Being part of the EU, Greece through state organisations has sponsored Schools for Foreign Children, including the EU, European School Heraklion. A true experience of bringing the kids over in "Making the Leap with Kids".
Public Utilities
Public Utilities - Electricity and water. Explanation of billing.
PTT - Post and Telecoms
Telephone, Internet and Postal Services - what you need to know.
Healthcare and Medical Services
Essential reading, including the private Cretan Medicare Centres.
Cretan Culture
Retaining language and customs yet making foreigners feel inclusive along with choices in local TV Viewing.
Updated Cost of Living Details - February 2008
More important information for calculating the cost of living on fixed income on a monthly basis.
Stores and Supermarkets Grocery Shopping
From small village stores, to large supermarket chains, like Carrefour and Lidl, Crete has it all. A Quick guide to what is available.
Citizens Advice Bureaus in Greece (K.E.P.)
Your short cut to the Ministries and who is responsible for what.
Custom Search on BritsinCrete Websites
Back to the Top
|
