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Αργοφιλία: For the love of the journey.

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Crete’s Sacred Caves – Part I

Phil Butler

The legends and spiritual wonders of Crete may never be fully uncovered. Then again, when local peasants in 1883 discovered ancient votive objects in the now famous Dictaean Cave no modern archaeologist had a clue of Crete’s hidden treasures.

Crete’s Nikos Igoumenidis on Tourism Trends for 2018

Phil Butler

A few days ago Argo News had the opportunity to discuss with Greek parliamentarian, Dr. Nikos Igoumenidis, the importance of emerging tourism trends and the necessary shift by all stakeholders.

Five Crete Postcard Vacation Stays for 2018

Phil Butler

Just last week I was driving the family back to Heraklion from a visit to Melidoni Cave in Rethymno Prefecture when I realized that we live inside a picture postcard here on Crete. The word “fabulous” does not begin to describe the beauty of this place and its people. And for vacationers looking for that ideal “bucket list” destination.

7 Diving and Snorkeling Centers in Santorini to Explore the Deep Blue

Mihaela Lica Butler

There are many treasures into the deep blue of the southern Aegean Sea and you can discover many of them in the Lost City of Atlantis. We’ve rounded up seven diving and snorkeling centers in Santorini that will make you fall in love with the world of the mermaids.

Solving Heraklion’s and Crete’s Age Old Water Deficit

Phil Butler

Recent meetings by Heraklion Mayor Vassilis Labrinos reflect the almost desperate need to solve the city’s ever-expanding freshwater situation. Here are some news and ideas on the water crisis in Crete. 

Exploring Like a Local in Argyroupoli on Crete

Phil Butler

A recent trip to one of Crete’s most famous villages reminded us of the island’s most precious gift, the philoxeníā (φῐλοξενῐ́ᾱ) exhibited by Cretans. Visiting Rethymno Prefecture and the community of Argyroupoli (ancient Lappa) over the Easter holidays, our team found a gem of a local tour guide named Manolis Neonakis.

A Litany of Rural Cultural Tourism: Argyroupoli at Easter

Phil Butler

On April 5th, 2018 a small group of local entrepreneurs and regional stakeholders met in the Crete town of Argyroupoli, in Rethymno Prefecture, to discuss a cultural tourism initiative for rural areas of the island.

Exploring Argyroupoli: The Valley of the Fairies

Phil Butler

The story you are about to read may challenge what you believe a bit. But I am sure it will also speak to something in you. For this discovery of mine here on Crete I owe my wife Mihaela and our friend Rebecca Skevaki, who’s the founder of Crete Urban Adventures, a big thanks. And to them I say, now you know why I was acting a bit funny during our exploration of ancient Lappa. Here’s the story of the Valley of the Fairies beneath the village of Argyroupoli (ancient Lappa).

Coming On Crete: The International Mountain Race Psiloritis 2018

Phil Butler

Coming up June 3rd, the International Mountain Race Psiloritis will challenge the world’s mountain racers to run in the footsteps of mighty Zeus. An event envisioned back in 2008 for Mt. Olympus, Race Psiloritis is now an “one of” international runner’s experience.

10 Reasons “Crete” Should Be TripAdvisor’s Number One Destination

Phil Butler

TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Destinations of Europe 2018 were just announced, and Crete now sits at prestigious No. 4. However, us Minoans take great offense at not being chosen number one, since we gave you roads, usable toilets, and the world’s greatest EVER jewelry.

Travel Massive Crete Marks Good Friday with a Culture-Inspired Summit in Argyroupoli

Argophilia Travel News

Travel Massive Crete, in collaboration with the Cultural Association of Argyroupoli, the Parish of Argyroupoli, the Cretan Gastronomy Center, and the Municipality of Rethymno, will host a culture-inspired summit to mark the Orthodox Good Friday: “Traditions: Powerful Tools for Rural Tourism Development.”  Participation is free.