The Joy Apartments

One of the most common words, that is interwoven the culture of the Cretans, is the Greek word philoxenia. Philoxenia is a compound word, comprised of the word “philo”, which means friend and “xenia” which means stranger, hence meaning “friend of the stranger”. From the ancient times philoxenia was a sacred word. Greeks have inherited it from their ancestors and they have a strong sense to it. It’s no wonder why at a wedding’s or a family’s celebration, often foreigners or tourists are invited as well, to have a taste and feel the traditional, welcoming feeling which characterizes the Greek culture. There is no surprise that Cretans often offer treatments at village kafenio or taverns to visitors, no matter where they come from. The purpose is to make them feel welcome, safe and like home. Also the guest should be polite and courteous to appreciate the philoxenia.