Can you get a taste of real Greece when staying in a resort?

[publicservice]

Seeking advice from seasoned resort-goers please – Crete or elsewhere.

I’d like to take my DD (12) to a Greek island this May half term, probably Crete. I’m a single mum, so for ease I’m looking at packages (Jet2/Tui). I’ve never stayed at a resort before, and a lot of the packages are all inclusive. Sounds blissful from a shopping/cooking/washing up perspective, but I’m wondering whether holidaying this way might feel like being in a bubble?

Some resorts I’m looking at have various restaurants / tavernas, and even claim to be designed like a village, so that might lend a little space/authenticity. Or I might be way off..

DD will be into the beach and swimming. Some evening entertainment (not sure what this involves) might be nice, and the chance to explore nearby villages either on foot or by public transport.

So, what’s a resort life really like? Will it give us some much needed relaxation with the option of seeing a bit of the real Crete too?

And any 4/5* resort recommendations gratefully received.

You can find some smaller locally owned hotels that are in quieter village or small town locations and offer HB or AI. Have a look at Kalyves or the Akrotiri peninsula, or the south coast. Or if you want more buzz, have a look at Georgioupolis, or Elounda or Aghios Nikolaos.

Grecotel Marine Palace has exactly what you’re looking for. Scroll down to the entertainment and agreco sections on this page: https://www.grecotel.com/marine-palace/summer-activities/ You also get one meal at a local restaurant in the village included in your package https://www.grecotel.com/marine-palace/all-inclusive-dining/