Communication with professors was not always easy. Some of them did not respond to my emails or did respond after a long period of time, which is problematic if you need enough time for your study duties. During the program, students had to look up contacts with their professors and contact them. I saw, many students struggled with that however, one mail from the local coordinator might be helpful. The mail with this webpage https://research-directory.uoc.gr/en/researchers/B , where I found all my professors. I appreciate it if the information on the web page were refreshed and complete (with office hours and the location of the professor’s office). That would make the whole study much easier for me. On the contrary, when I met the professors in person, they were always helpful and kind. If some professors from the department were not responding to me, they suggested contacting the professor themselves. This way, I would like to thank them for their kind attitude. However, I do not want to be so critical of the University of Crete, perhaps I am only affected by my own experiences from my homeland university in the Czech Republic.

The last lines are dedicated to the city and its surroundings. Rethymno is a city of many possibilities. If you are keen on art, sport, religion, history, gastronomy, and nature. Staying in Rethymno is the right choice for you. If you decide to slow your daily pace, you can spend your day in cosy cafes, in the municipal garden, or just strolling along the beach. If you decide to move your body, you can exercise in one of the local gyms or you may attend the university gym which is fully equipped and for students is for free. I personally prefer running outside, so I chose running along the beach.

Many sports events take place here, in Rethymno. I participated in the Arkadi run and that was an amazing experience if you are into running you should definitely run the race. I can also recommend the city market which is held regularly two times a week and it is worth it. Fresh fruit and vegetables for cheaper prices than in the stores, and overall, the market culture is great.

I am not surprised that the concept of “kalokagathos” originally comes from ancient Greece. Two libraries in the city – the municipal and university library provide a comprehensive collection of titles, and calm room for learning, a municipal art gallery of contemporary art, and other places enable the refinement of the soul and conversely tich sports activities, additionally, sea and salty air and coastal promenade, where you can empower your body perfectly fulfilling my perception of kalokagathos.

One final piece of advice – Don’t be afraid of the sea even in the coldest months. Cold-water exposure brings many benefits to your body even your soul will be enriched.