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.
Kalyves
Oikos Home Deco store, Kalyves
Rethymnon
News Stand, Agnostou Square, Rethymnon.

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..