The biggest surprise of the trip

As we were driving, on Crete, to the coastal town of Matala,

we were told that, in the 60's and 70's, 'hippies' had flocked to the area

to escape national and international crises around the world
- the Vietnam War, the draft,
'race riots', anti war protests, civil rights marches,
actions against the rule of corporations, 

protests demanding equal rights for women, etc.

Many found themselves in Matala,

seeking refuge (and rent free housing) in the caves above the Mediterranean,

living like the indigenous people in tribes in the American Southwest -

picture Bandolier National Park, 

only with a beach.

After exploring on our own,
we got back together, 

and were quick to point out to the tour guide,

that, indeed the 'hippies' hadn't left at all;

they were running the shops,

selling the coffee, art and jewelry

and were the same age as all of us.

None of us stays frozen in time

with a youths body and passions; 

there's a mellowing, a softening that's part of the process of becoming.

We change, if we're lucky.

In Crete, micro climates range from alpine (in the mountains) to tropical (along the coasts).

It's an island that really has something for everyone.

Big cities, rural and everything in between.

 There was such a familiarity and authenticity to Crete

that is was, without a doubt,

my favorite island - 

and one to which I would love to return for a longer stay.

 

Finding my tribe here wouldn't be that hard either.