If you are on Crete to see the 'real Crete', as opposed to the night clubs for tourists, then visiting the villages of the island is a must. All Cretan culture can be seen, heard and tasted in the villages. The Cretans at work or at leisure will always welcome visitors and show you how to do things the correct way. All villages have a central kafenion coffee shop which is where all people eventually end up. The kafenion, apart from being a place to meet friends for a coffee, raki or a game of tavli backgammon, is used as the main information center of the village. Be aware, however, that the kafenion is still very much a male dominion and women are generally not welcome inside as opposed to a kafeteria or regular cafe. Most villages have war memorials and the locals will willingly fill in any missing information. Gavalohori has a wonderful Folklore Museum where much about village life can be learned.
