Preserving the charm

One of the biggest dismays of any traveller is revisiting a place within the span of a few years and regretting the changes that have occurred in the meantime. Undeniably, the accelerated touristic development supports the livelihoods of many and sustains, to some extent, cultures that, otherwise, would almost go extinct. But, on the other hand, it has left only a few places untouched, and many memories have been ruined by a second visit to a once-beloved destination which, like an ageing woman, has gone a bit too far on cosmetic surgeries.

Given the several disappointments during my travelling explorations, I was pleasantly surprised when, during my last trip to Crete, I realised that Chania, the island’s second-largest town, had managed to preserve its charm, despite the massive tourist invasion. The alleys remained picturesque, the port idyllic, the market sophisticated, and the food delicious – just as I remembered it since almost twenty years ago. Naturally, there are many challenges, both practical and aesthetic. Still, the ambience is authentic and, hence, delightful and engaging.

As we go through life, we, ourselves, inevitably change, carrying with a mixture of fear and pride the badges of our scars and the banners of our successes. Deep inside, we believe we remain untouched; yet, what was once the essence of our charm may get diluted over time, fading away, re-emerging and evolving into the person we become. Preserving the aura of our nature while emanating the finest aspects of our true being is not a virtue easy to behold. It requires inner strength, confidence, and belief. The result, though, is enchanting, for who can resist authenticity in a world that adores fake façades.

Photo credits: © Konstantina Sakellariou