By Raquel M. &
Paula H.
Each of us came here for different reasons, certainly with different baggage, pasts, and dreams. Yet most of us who chose to make it our new home seem to agree on the main reasons behind this life-improving move.
What makes a place feel like home, especially when it isn’t your home country?
Hania is not just a destination for tourists. It is increasingly becoming a permanent home for foreigners seeking a better balance of lifestyle, culture, and community. With its turquoise harbors, snow-capped mountains in the distance, and vibrant Old Town, Hania offers a rare combination of natural beauty, historical depth, and modern conveniences. Its moderate size, Mediterranean climate, and culturally rich environment create an ideal setting for those wanting a slower, yet socially and professionally engaging life.
We spoke with 21 people who chose Hania as their home. Their stories span continents -from Canada to Japan, Austria to Argentina- but their reasons for staying share striking similarities: community, pace of life, culture and tradition, history and
mythology, food, nature and activities, animals, and weather. Together, these factors create a lifestyle that is deeply rewarding and life-changing.
1 Food Quality
If there is one thing every single respondent agreed on, it is this: the food in Hania is exceptional. But it’s not just about taste. It’s about quality, origin, and culture. Many residents buy directly from farmers’ markets, where produce is local, seasonal, and often organic. Meals are social events, often extended and shared.
Even small gestures -like free desserts or local raki-
reflect a culture of generosity around food.
Christina (38, Belgium/Greece) says, “You can eat food from your neighbors and get fresh products everywhere,” while Maxim (36, Czech Republic) notes, “You often get something extra for free,” reflecting the generosity embedded in local food culture.
In contrast to highly processed food systems in many countries, Hania offers a return to simplicity and authenticity.
Eating here is not just nourishment. It’s a lifestyle. This Mediterranean diet is widely regarded as one of the healthiest dietary patterns in the world. In Crete, this diet is not a trend but a lived reality, based on simple, whole ingredients: fresh vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, olive oil, and moderate amounts of fish and dairy. [According to Dr. of Agronomy Kostas Chartzoulakis, ‘in Crete there are 110 species of edible wild greens!’]
One of the key reasons why food in Crete -especially fruits and vegetables- is so flavorful and nutritious lies in the island’s natural conditions. The combination of abundant sunshine, mineral-rich soil, and a mild climate allows produce to ripen slowly and fully, benefiting both taste and nutritional value.
Beyond taste and hospitality, Hania is renowned for olive oil. The region produces up to 120,000 tons annually, with around 90% classified as extra virgin, making it a central pillar of the Mediterranean diet and a driver of longevity and heart health.
What makes this olive oil life-changing is how it’s used: in Crete, fresh extra virgin olive oil is the primary fat in daily cooking, replacing butter and processed oils common elsewhere. Rich in polyphenols, it supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and enhances nutrient absorption, making it both a staple and a functional part of everyday nutrition.
Combined with farm-to-table practices, seasonal eating habits, and access to local seafood, the food culture in Hania is both sustainable and deeply nourishing. For many residents and newcomers alike, this relationship with food becomes an essential part of everyday life.
2 Sun & Temperatures
Hania’s Mediterranean climate is one of its most attractive features. Kareem (42, Egypt) says, “The weather is absolutely stunning: around 300 days of sun per year.” Winters are mild and often warm enough for swimming. This makes the sea comfortable for swimming, even in winter for some. The sunny weather creates an ideal environment for outdoor activity, wellness, and a healthy, active lifestyle throughout the year.
In addition to comfort, this climate provides multiple benefits for both physical and mental health. Regular sunshine supports vitamin D production, which strengthens bones, boosts immunity, and can improve mood.
The climate also complements the Mediterranean lifestyle, encouraging slow, outdoor living: morning coffees in the sun, evening walks along the waterfront, and meals shared outdoors. Combined with Hania’s proximity to nature, the weather makes it easy for residents to balance relaxation, social interaction, and physical activity. Compared to countries with long, dark winters, Hania offers a brighter, more energizing environment.
For many foreigners, this is not just about comfort, it’s about transformation. The weather enables a lifestyle that feels more alive.
3 Pace of Life
Many newcomers arrive from cities defined by constant busyness, tight schedules, and relentless deadlines. In Hania, life moves at a different rhythm: long lunches, unhurried conversations, and a general absence of urgency
define daily life. Róisín (28, Ireland) explains, “I love how slow and grounded everything is here compared to the rat race feeling you get in other places,” and Simona (39, France) adds, “the rhythm of life here is chill, more humane.”
The city’s scale contributes significantly to this relaxed pace. The municipality has around 110,000 residents, with the city itself hosting approximately 55,000 people, creating a manageable social and cultural ecosystem that allows for both activity and relaxation. Coupled with Mediterranean lifestyle habits, such as long, shared meals and relaxed social interactions, this makes Hania a city where time feels abundant rather than rushed.
Many newcomers describe life here as “back to basics”, an authentic island experience where days are slower, rhythms follow nature, and community life feels tangible.
4 Nature & Activities
Hania’s surrounding landscapes are extraordinarily diverse, offering residents immediate access to mountains, beaches, forests, and gorges. Kareem (42, Egypt) notes, “You have the beach, mountains, greenery, and even snow, all in one place.”
Hania benefits from close proximity between the coastline and mountainous terrain, meaning that dramatic natural shifts occur over very short distances. The infrastructure also supports exploration: a well-maintained network of hiking trails, mountain roads, and coastal paths makes it easy for residents to engage in outdoor activities on a daily basis. Hannah (33, Ireland) points out that “these activities can be enjoyed year-round, not just in summer.”
Hania makes nature part of everyday life, where swimming, hiking, climbing, and exploring are not weekend activities -they are daily possibilities. For many foreigners, this accessibility to nature is transformative, encouraging a more active, balanced, and fulfilling lifestyle. Athena (33, USA) says: “Drive to the most beautiful gorges I have ever seen. You go from the sea to the mountains in 20 minutes.”
The White Mountains rise to over 2,400 meters, and the Samaria Gorge stretches 16 km, creating one of Europe’s most diverse natural environments. In addition, the western part
of Crete is known for its higher levels of rainfall compared to the east, resulting in greener landscapes, richer biodiversity, and more varied ecosystems.
Together, this extraordinary proximity to multiple ecosystems, combined with accessibility and biodiversity,
allows residents to hike, climb, swim, and explore with ease,
fostering not only physical activity but also a deep, everyday connection to the natural world.
5 History & Mythology
Hania is not just a place. It is a story layered over thousands of years. From ancient mythology to the iconic Venetian
harbor, history is embedded in everyday life and is not confined to museums, it’s part of the streets, buildings, and natural
environment.
Bruno (38, Argentina) reflects, “I was interested in the mythology of Crete since I was young. Coming here felt like fulfilling
a childhood wish.” Jonathan (33, USA) adds, “There are so many historical monuments and so much history here.”
Hania has been inhabited for over 5,000 years and was once the Minoan city of Kydonia. Crete’s myths, including the birth of Zeus and the legend of the Minotaur, enrich the island with a sense of magic.
The Venetian harbor, constructed in the 14th century during Venetian rule, was originally designed as a fortified trading port, playing a key role in maritime commerce between Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. Its design reflects Venetian engineering principles, with protective walls and shipyards that supported both trade and naval defense. At the entrance stands the iconic lighthouse, originally built by the Venetians, later
rebuilt and modified by the Egyptians in the 19th century during a period of Ottoman rule, giving it its distinctive minaret-like shape. This blend of Venetian foundations and Egyptian reconstruction makes the lighthouse a unique architectural symbol.
For foreigners fascinated by history and mythology, Hania provides an immersive, living environment where ancient stories, medieval trade routes, and more recent Ottoman rule
converge in one place.
6 Strong Community
For many foreigners, moving abroad comes with uncertainty, especially when it comes to building a social life. In Hania, however, the presence of a large and active international community makes this transition significantly easier. Kathy (28, Canada) highlights this openness: “As soon as you get here, you can meet an unlimited number of people. You don’t feel isolated.”
Crete has seen a steady rise in international residents over the past decade, with thousands of foreigners now living on the island year-round. The combination of infrastructure for remote work and a socially active expat network makes Hania not just a place to live, but a place where newcomers can quickly find belonging. Lucia (Slovakia, 37) says: “Before Corona I went to Crete, I found out there was a big remote workers / foreigner community, so I was inspired and thought let’s go and live and work here.”
Studies in social psychology show that strong community ties are one of the most important predictors of happiness and long-term well-being.
7 Culture and Tradition
Cretan culture is deeply intertwined with hospitality, family values, and long-standing traditions, creating an environment where newcomers feel both safe and included. The concept of philoxenia -a genuine spirit of generosity and care toward strangers- is not just symbolic but actively practiced in everyday life. Mizuki (34, Japan) reflects this experience, noting, “The Cretan philoxenia made me feel at home from day one. People are incredibly open and kind.”
Safety is another key factor. Many respondents emphasized the low crime rates. José (40, Mexico) explains, “you have the peace of mind of not feeling like you are going to be mugged or robbed when you go out at night.”
Cultural life in Hania is vibrant and highly visible through festivals (panigiria), religious celebrations, and communal gatherings centered around food, music, and dance. These events strengthen social cohesion and offer newcomers immediate access to authentic local experiences. Laura (40, USA) says: “The Cretan people are warm, friendly, and proud of their culture. Even with a language barrier, they make you feel at home and love sharing their traditions.” Together, this combination of warmth and inclusion makes Hania exceptionally appealing for foreigners.
8 Human–Animal Connection
Animals are an ever-present part of life in Hania, with street cats in particular shaping the city’s atmosphere. They can be seen lounging in alleys, gathering near cafés, and contributing to a sense of liveliness and familiarity, especially for newcomers. Lydia (41, Austria) adds
“I slowly built connections with both people and animals. I also got involved in street animal welfare.” For many residents, these cats are not just part of the background but become part of everyday contact and emotional connections. Many of those interviewed ended up adopting stray cats.
The presence of street cats is a distinctive experience compared to countries where street animals have largely been removed from public spaces; in Hania, they remain visibly present and accepted. Care for these animals is deeply embedded in local culture. Residents frequently leave out food and water, while informal networks of volunteers support feeding, sterilization, and medical care.
Beyond the city center, animals take on a more traditional role. In the surrounding hills and villages, goats and sheep define the landscape, grazing freely and often crossing quiet roads or appearing along mountain paths. Among them, the kri-kri, Crete’s native wild goat, stands out. Found mainly in protected areas such as the Samaria Gorge, it is known for its agility and ability to navigate steep cliffs. Though rarely interacting with humans, it symbolizes Crete’s wild and independent spirit. Together, these layers of human–animal interaction create a rich environment in which animals are fully integrated into daily life.
Conclusion
What emerges from these 21 stories is a clear pattern: Hania offers a rare combination of factors that together create a highly desirable and meaningful way
of living.
People arrive for different reasons -curiosity, opportunity, or even coincidence- but they stay because of a deeper fulfillment that this place brings.
The city strikes a balance that is difficult to find elsewhere. It allows for a comfortable daily life while maintaining a calm, unhurried pace. This coexistence of ease and simplicity is a key reason why many foreigners choose to stay long-term.
Equally important is the surrounding environment. With beaches, mountains, and gorges all within close reach, nature becomes part of daily life rather than something reserved for weekends. Swimming, hiking, and exploring are easily integrated into everyday routines, while frequent encounters with animals further reinforce this connection to the natural world. Combined with around 300 days of sunshine per year, this encourages a more active and outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
Beyond lifestyle, Hania offers a strong sense of meaning through its deeply rooted Greek culture and history. Daily life is shaped by traditions, local customs, and historical landmarks, giving residents a rich cultural environment
to engage with.
Nutrition further strengthens this balance. The traditional Mediterranean diet, based on fresh, local ingredients and
olive oil, supports long-term health and is closely linked to longevity.
Taken together -comfort, culture, nature, and a slower pace- Hania enables a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
