I lived among the Cretan People for almost 20 years. People bred on a blessed land, with a steel pride and a sunmade smile when they open the door to their home, to offer their world renowned Hospitality.
Somehow, you always receive that different something when conversing with a Cretan, either young or old. A certain wisdom to mentally elaborate on at your own leisure.
Add their mastery on feasting and company bonding, it makes them an irresistible challenge to encounter at least once in your life. It will be like their long lasting history, suddenly comes to life, before your very eyes.
You should really try it.
Tip: Before Visiting Elounda, or Crete in general, find a copy of Nikos Kazantzakis' "Askitiki" (The Saviors of God). Happy Travel!
Nikos Kazantzakis, The Saviors of God: Spiritual Exercises,
translated by Kimon Friar. Simon and Schuster, New York 1960.