International Community Crete

There is a large international community living in Crete which has grown fairly
rapidly in recent years. Since Greece opened up its laws to allow foreigners to
purchase property there has been a steady influx of people moving to Crete
permanently, for retirement or to work and settle, as well as those purchasing
holiday homes and spending some extended time in Crete.

Brits make up the majority of 'expats' in Crete, but there are many other
nationalities including German, French, Dutch, Swedish, Finnish, Italian, American
and Australian amongst others.

The major towns and most populated areas of Crete are all located along the
North coast, from Kissamos and Chania in the west to Agios Nikolaos and Sitia in
the east. The majority live in or near the major north coast towns and villages,
but ex-pats can be found in every corner of Crete.

There are a number of international organisations in Crete which arrange walks,
social evenings, get-togethers and charity events. Those of all nationalities are
welcome to join.

These groups also offer support to newcomers to Crete and can help with easing
the transition into Crete living.

West Crete
Cretan International Community (C.I.C)
Chania & Rethymnon
CIC Website details and membership www.thecic.eu
The CIC produce a monthly newsletter with articles, local events, classified ads
etc. and is available to buy from:
Chania: "To Pazari' secondhand shop, Daskalogianni St, Splantzia, Chania.
Rethymnon: News Stand, Agnostou Square, Rethymnon.

The International Society of Kissamos Area (ISKA)
Kastelli Kissamos
ISKA website details and membership www.iska.gr
ISKA is a group set up to help and support expats living in the Kissamos area.

East Crete
INCO
Agios Nikolaos
The Cultural Organisation of the Foreign Residents of Aghios Nikolaos -
International Committee.
INCO was formed in 1998 to represent the interests of all of the foreign
residents in the town and the surrounding villages.
See their website for more information: www.inconews.com

Other Associations

There are also Associations for German, French, Swedish, Finnish, Danish, Italian
and Dutch citizens, some of which run associated part time language schools for
bi-lingual children who attend main stream Greek school..