Crete 2024
Our hotel
Pilot Beach Resort
Georgioupoli 730 07 • pilot-beach.gr
Set against the beautiful, blue backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, 5-star Pilot Beach Resort is the ideal setting for an island getaway.
Take advantage of the resort’s close proximity to nature, including the Preveli Palm Forest, Kournas Lake, and Argiroupoli Springs. Explore local history, culture, and food and drink with excursions to nearby cities like Chania and Heraklion and landmarks like the Agia Triada monastery and the Knossos Archeological site.
Resort Amenities
- 4 restaurants and 3 bars, from traditional Greek cuisine to sushi
- 4 outdoor pools, 1 indoor pool
- spa with massage rooms, beauty parlor, sauna, and more
- fitness facilities, including gym, and private workout studio
- 4+ miles of private beach on the shores of the Aegean Sea
- laundry service (free)
- car and bike rentals
Room Amenities
- TV, wifi
- mini-fridge, coffee & tea maker
Our itinerary
Day 1: Friday, Oct 4
________
Arrivals:
Arriving guests will be greeted by iE USA staff before heading to Pilot Beach Resort. Once at the hotel, you will check into your room and have time to freshen up before our Welcome Reception & Dinner.
Day 2: Saturday, Oct 5
________
Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel
6 a.m.-6 p.m.: Free time/time for excursions
Lunch
Dinner
Day 3: Sunday, Oct 6
________
Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel
9 a.m.-noon: Staff meeting for all staff and LCs (free time for guests)
9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.: Quad Safari option for guests (Group #Quad 1)
Lunch (all guests are invited to join)
3-7 p.m.: Free time/time for excursion:
- Quad safari (Group #Quad 2)
- Greek cooking event (Group #Greek 1)
Dinner
Day 4: Monday, Oct 7
________
Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel
Free time or Excursion: Knossos & Retyhmno (all day)
Dinner
Day 5: Tuesday, Oct 8
________
Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel
6 a.m.-7 p.m.: free time/time for excursions:
- 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Jeep Off-road tour (Group #Jeep 1)
- Greek cooking (Group #Greek 2)
Dinner
Day 6: Wednesday, Oct 9
________
Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel
6 a.m.-7 p.m.: Free time/Time for excursions:
- Imbros Gorge Hike (Group #Imbros)
- Boat tours
- 9 a.m.-noon (#Boat 1)
- 1-4 p.m. (#Boat 2)
- 5-8 p.m. (#Boat 3)
Lunch
Dinner
Day 7: Thursday, Oct 10
________
Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel
6 a.m.-7 p.m.: Free time/time for excursions:
- 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Jeep Off-Road tour (Group #Jeep 2)
- Olive farm tour
Lunch
Farewell dinner
Day 8: Friday, Oct 11
________
Breakfast & Check-out
Farewell & Transfer to airport
EXCURSIONS
Go Off the Beaten Path
Experience Crete
FAQ’s & Helpful info
What do I need to prepare ahead of the trip?
- Bring the correct travel documents. U.S. citizens and permanent residents do not need a visa to visit Greece but please review your airline’s website for any travel requirements.
- Review the recommended packing list (will be sent to you a couple of weeks ahead of departure).
- Exchange currency.Get travel insurance (optional).
- Download WhatsApp and get a temporary international data plan for the duration of the stay.
What will the weather be like?
The weather in October is generally mild and pleasant, making it a great time to visit Greece. In Crete specifically, due to proximity to the ocean, temps remain warm, usually between 60-80°F during the day (slightly cooler during the evening).
What is the dress code? What clothing items are recommended?
Lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen are totally appropriate, and layers are a smart idea since it tends to be a little warmer during the day and cooler in the evening.
Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes so you can explore all the island has to offer!
Do I need to bring Euros?
It is recommended to bring some cash to use at smaller businesses like local convenience stores, and for tipping. When using debit or credit card, be aware of fees for using your card abroad. Many business also utilize Google Pay or Apple Pay, but it is best to have cash or card on-hand.
What meals are included?
Hotel breakfasts as well as all dinners listed on our itinerary are included.
The mini bar in your room is a private expense paid by the individual room occupants on check-out.
Are there special rules about smoking?
In general, smoking in indoor spaces is not allowed (includes vaping, e-cigarettes, etc.), while smoking outdoors is acceptable. At the resort, smoking is not allowed in the rooms or public indoor areas while there are designated smoking areas available outside.
Who will I share a room with?
If you are a solo traveler, you will receive an email with information about who you will be sharing a hotel room with.
Will I receive details about meeting times, locations, etc. ahead of time?
Yes, the itinerary will include most of those details. Our team also knows the itinerary well and will be able to answer questions, or provide guidance.
What should I know about Crete?
Here are a few things to know about Crete:
1. Known for their hospitality, Cretan people are friendly and welcoming. It’s customary to greet locals and engage in conversation.
2. Tipping is optional. While it is not expected, it certainly is appreciated for restaurants and other services like the hotel spa. It is also okay to leave a few coins or bills in lieu of calculating a specific tip percentage.
3. Crete, Greece’s biggest island, is known for its rich historical landmarks; when visiting churches and monestaries, dressing modestly is important to show respect. Otherwise, shorts and t-shirts are completely appropriate when walking around and exploring the island.
4. The official language is Greek, with written language using the Greek alphabet, but many locals speak English, and signage will often include information written in the English alphabet as well.
5. Tap water is generally considered safe to drink.
6. Grecian sewage pipes are often much narrower than elsewhere in the world, so some places may ask you to not flush toilet paper when using the restroom.