Missed the sunrise, oh well. Had breakfast buffet at hotel Astoria then went on to Knossos. Great having Dr M on hand to explain and answer questions. Most amusing incident at the theatral area when a tour guide told his unfortunate flock that that was where the Minotaur was kept. Felt really good when the guard let us into the throne room, bypassing all the tourists. Much smaller than expected but it was great seeing the throne flanked by the griffins. From Knossos to Archanes, local chieftain’s house with spectacular view. Unfortunately, the museum was closed, unable to find guard to open it. So, to lunch. Sat with T, R and S. Had moussaka (eggplant, meat) which was very good and we shared a kilo of retsina (600 Dr!) Best retsina yet, tasted very light but I felt a little light-headed after 2.5 cups. Long, winding journey through mountains and small winding roads through villages to reach Idi Hotel. Saw a pool when we came round the bend toward the hotel, a little taken aback by the greenish water. Turned out it’s not the hotel’s. Whew! Very nice place, sharing a room with T and L. Everyone put stuff down and headed for the very clean and cold pool. (Dr M had about half kilo of retsina for lunch and had exclaimed “No more guiding today for me!”) She said “How decadent!” when she saw us lounging in the pool. Indeed, food, wine, nap on bus, then a dip in the pool… Suntanned a little, then siesta'd. Had dinner at the hotel’s restaurant. Pretty good, more wine, some free. As S commented, This is Utopian Crete. Dr M was quite merry during dinner, telling stories of past delinquents. Sat outside bar with T, R, S, Ai, B, Tr at some point. Conversation moved to beside pool. Night sky dripping with stars, strong breeze blowing, went in at 12, the witching hour.