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Sargassum seaweed is washing ashore at low levels on Southeast Florida’s Atlantic beaches in 2024, according to the latest observations by the Sargassum Watch database maintained by Florida International University.

And it’s likely to stay that way until May, according to the April forecast by the University of South Florida’s Optical Oceanography Laboratory.

In a normal year, the sargassum seaweed “season” on Florida beaches begins in April or May and continues into summer. Heaviest hit in most years are the Florida Keys.

Sargassum blooms arise in the Central Atlantic annually in December and drift westward into the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico during spring and summer.

The floating seaweed provides beneficial shelter from the sun and food for fish offshore, but becomes a nuisance and potential health hazards after it washes up on beaches.

Sargassum seaweed is not a new phenomena, but the 5,000-mile-wide mass recorded offshore during the spring and summer of 2023 was the largest ever recorded.

Florida’s seaweed season typically runs from April until October, peaking in June and July. The seaweed comes in batches, depending on currents and wind direction.

The seaweed itself is not harmful to humans, but decaying sargassum on beaches releases hydrogen sulfide that can impact people with breathing issues.

That said, even decaying sargassum is not considered harmful because the gases disperse quickly on breezy beaches.

New research suggests the pathogen Vibrio sticks to microplastics that merge into sargassum clusters at sea, and while the bacteria has not been detected in sargassum washing ashore, beachgoers are advised to keep their distance from seaweed clusters.

Vibrio vulnificus, one of more than 100 species of Vibrio, sometimes referred to as flesh-eating bacteria, can cause life-threatening food-borne illnesses from seafood consumption as well as disease from open-wound infections, according to the national Centers for Disease Control.

You might think the seaweed would be removed from the water before it hits our beaches, but that’s against the law because of it’s value as a shelter and food source for marine life.

Indeed, these seaweed “lines” are popular targets for anglers who troll for mahi-mahi and other gamefish.

Once the sargassum blob hits the beach, the seaweed can be removed.

Popular tourist beaches rake the seaweed each morning and remove it from beaches, but with the state’s 1,350 miles of shoreline, that’s not always possible.

Beach Cams around Florida

Sargassum seaweed arrives in waves, depending on wind direction and currents.

These links will take you to live beach cameras at popular Florida beaches so you can see for yourself in real time.

•           Jacksonville Beach (surfguru.com)

•           St. Augustine Beach (surfstationcam)

•           Flagler Beach Pier

•           Ormond by the Sea

•           Daytona Beach

•           New Smyrna Beach

•           Cocoa Beach (Jetty Park)

•           Cocoa Beach

•           Melbourne Beach (surfguru.com)

•           Sebastian Inlet (surfguru.com)

•           Deerfield Beach

•           Lauderdale-By-The-Sea (earthcam.net)

•           Fort Lauderdale Beach

•           Dania Beach

•           Hollywood Beach

•           Miami Beach

•           Key Biscayne

•           Islamorada (Beach at Amara Cay)

•           Marathon (Beach at Tranquility Bay)

•           Key West (Fort Zachary Taylor Beach)

Gulf Beaches (Panhandle to South)

•           Pensacola Beach (visit pensacola)

•           Destin (surfguru.com)

•           South Walton / 30a Beach Webcams

•           Clearwater Beach

•           Indian Shores (surfguru.com)

•           Treasure Island (surfguru.com)

•           Siesta Key

•           Venice Beach (Sharkey’s on the Pier)

•           Fort Myers Beach

•           Naples Beach

What is Sargassum?

Sargassum is a type of floating brown algae, commonly called “seaweed.” These algae float at the sea surface, never attach to the sea floor, and they can aggregate to form large mats in the open ocean.

Where does it come from?

Historically, the majority of Sargassum aggregated in the Sargasso Sea in the western North Atlantic, with some small amounts found within the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea.

In 2011, the geographic range expanded, and massive amounts of Sargassum moved west into the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and south tropical Atlantic, washing ashore in Florida, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and most islands and coastal areas in the Caribbean Sea.

What are the benefits of Sargassum?

Sargassum, in normal amounts, provides habitat, food, protection, and breeding grounds for hundreds of diverse marine species, including commercially important species, such as tuna and swordfish, which feed on the smaller marine life present in Sargassum mats.

If Sargassum reaches the coast in small/normal quantities, it may help to avoid beach erosion.

What are some of the drawbacks of Sargassum?

As Sargassum accumulates close to the coastlines, it can smother valuable corals, seagrass beds, and beaches. As it washes ashore the seaweed begins to decay, attracting flies and other insects.

During its breakdown, Sargassum produces hydrogen sulfide gas, which smells of rotten eggs, repelling beachgoers.

Sargassum can also impact navigation, block water intake in desalination plants, and impact benthic ecosystems after/if they sink to the bottom of the ocean.

What threats, if any, does Sargassum pose to human health?

Studies of the impact of Sargassum on human health started very recently and this is a topic that needs more time to be fully understood. However, when decomposed, Sargassum releases hydrogen sulfide (a gas) that may cause respiratory health problems. Sargassum is also known to often contain heavy metals that can be toxic to humans and animals.

What about reports of ‘flesh-eating bacteria’ in sargassum?

In the open ocean, researchers at Florida Atlantic University discovered the pathogen Vibrio sticking to microplastics that merge into sargassum clusters at sea.

Vibrio vulnificus, one of more than 100 species of Vibrio, sometimes referred to as flesh-eating bacteria, can cause life-threatening foodborne illnesses from seafood consumption as well as disease, even death, from open-wound infections, according to the national Centers for Disease Control.

Kevin Johnson of Florida Tech’s marine sciences department, says the FAU research “has not demonstrated the sargassum coming onshore is especially dangerous with regard to bacterial infection for people.

Many of the bacteria that are associated with those plastics and sargassum are already present in our environment.

“I don’t think at this point, anyone has really considered these microbes and their capability to cause infections,” says FAU biologist Tracy Mincer. “In particular, caution should be exercised regarding the harvest and processing of Sargassum biomass until the risks are explored more thoroughly.”

Sargassum removed from beaches is frequently used in fertilizers.

Does Sargassum cause skin rashes and blisters?

Sargassum does not sting or cause rashes. However, tiny organisms that live in Sargassum

(like larvae of jellyfish, sometimes called sea lice) may irritate skin if they come in contact with it.

Why did the geographic range for Sargassum expand in 2011?

Researchers are still assessing various hypotheses about the cause of this first documented extreme event.

One hypothesis proposes that during the winter of 2009–2010, the winds that typically blow to the east, from the Americas to Europe, strengthened and shifted to the south more dramatically and persistently than any other time in the 1900–2020 record.

This shift in winds triggered a long-distance eastward dispersal of Sargassum, from the Sargasso Sea, toward the Iberian Peninsula in Europe and West Africa. 

After exiting the Sargasso Sea, the Sargassum drifted southward in the Canary Current and entered the tropics.

Once in this new and favorable tropical Atlantic habitat, with ample sunlight, warm waters, and nutrient availability, the Sargassum flourished and has continued to grow.

In addition to changing wind patterns, other hypotheses include a combination of factors, such as the variation in the outflow of major rivers (e.g. Amazon and Orinoco), nutrient (nitrogen and phosphorus) concentration in the oceans, increase in the amount of phosphorus due to saharan dust, water temperature, and river runoffs.

Having established a new population, the Sargassum now aggregates almost every year, starting in January/February in a massive windrow or “belt” north of the Equator, along the region where the trade winds converge.

During the late winter and early spring months, the Sargassum moves northward with the seasonal winds and currents. By June, this belt may stretch across the entire central tropical Atlantic. Large portions of this algae are then transported into the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico via the North Equatorial and Caribbean current systems.

Is the amount of Sargassum in the Atlantic/Caribbean increasing?

Since 2011, large accumulations of Sargassum have occurred every year in the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and tropical Atlantic, but the amount can vary from year to year.

The presence of Sargassum occurs over large areas from the tropical Atlantic in the east, to the Gulf of Mexico in the west, approximately 5,000 kilometers from the eastern tropical Atlantic to the west off the Mexican coast in the Caribbean Sea.

Sargassum does not extend as a blanket (or blob) covering the full surface of the ocean in these regions. Instead, Sargassum floats in patches that range in size from a few centimeters to hundreds of meters.

Some of these patches reach the coastal areas, including beaches, ports, and even intake systems for drinking water.  The area that these patches cover has been significantly larger in recent years than prior to 2011.

Two people, including a child, were killed, and several more injured, when a school bus carrying more than three dozen pre-K students Friday afternoon was involved in a crash on a highway in Bastrop County, Texas, east of Austin, state officials said.
The school bus was traveling west on Highway 21 at about 2 p.m. local time when a concrete truck “veered into the school bus’s lane and struck the school bus,” Sgt. Deon Cockrell with the Texas Department of Public Safety said in a news briefing the evening.
A boy riding on the bus was killed in the crash, Cockrell said, along with a man who was in a third vehicle that was traveling behind the school bus. The names of the deceased victims were not immediately provided.
The Hays Consolidated Independent School District confirmed in a statement that the school bus was carrying pre-K students from Tom Green Elementary School returning from a field trip to the Bastrop Zoo when the crash occurred.
The bus was carrying 44 students and 11 adults at the time of the crash, the district said.
A total of 53 patients were evaluated at the crash scene, Kevin Parker, division chief for Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services, told reporters.
In addition to the two people killed, four patients were airlifted to area hospitals with critical injuries, and six more were taken to hospitals by ground ambulance, Parker disclosed.
The remainder had minor injuries and were either treated at the scene or transported to a hospital, Parker said.
“We did an on-scene triage and continuous triage as we were getting units available to move those victims,” Parker said.
Cockrell wouldn’t speculate on what exactly caused the crash or whether charges would be filed, only saying that it was under investigation.
“I am shocked and deeply saddened to hear about the school bus accident in Bastrop County today,” Sen. John Cornyn of Texas wrote in a social media post. “Please join me in praying for these children, educators, and their families, especially those who have lost loved ones, during this difficult time.

A helicopter carrying three National Guard soldiers and a Border Patrol agent crashed Friday near the U.S.-Mexico border in Texas, killing at least three on board, officials said.
The helicopter went down in La Grulla, a border town that sits near the Rio Grande in Starr County.
Starr County Judge Eloy Vera, the county’s top local official, said the fourth person was in critical condition.
Law enforcement sources told Fox News that the three National Guard soldiers were working on federal orders on behalf of the Department of Homeland Security.
The helicopter was a New York National Guard “Lakota.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Starr County Sheriff’s Office, the National Guard and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
In January, a Texas Department of Public Safety helicopter on a patrol mission crashed along the state’s border with Mexico lost power and crashed. The co-pilot suffered a minor hand injury and the helicopter was significantly damaged.

The pilot of a plane that crashed onto a Florida interstate, killing two people Friday, told air traffic control that he had “lost both engines” and that the Bombardier Challenger 600 business jet wasn’t going to make it to the airport moments before it slammed into the roadway, clipping a vehicle and crashing into a wall, newly released audio reveals.
“Challenger Hop-A-Jet 823, lost both engines, emergency, I’m making an emergency landing,” the pilot calmly radios to air traffic control at Naples Airport on Friday afternoon in the audio.
An air traffic controller responds that the pilot is cleared to land.
“We’re cleared to land, but we’re not going to make the runway. We’ve lost both engines,” the pilot says right before the plane crashed onto Interstate 75 in Naples, and burst into flames
The crash left the pilot and co-pilot dead, while three others on board survived. No one on the ground was killed.
The pilot has been tentatively identified as Edward Daniel Murphy, 50, of Oakland Park, Florida; and co-pilot Ian Frederick Hofmann, 65, of Pompano Beach, Florida, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office said on Facebook
One crew member, Sydney Ann Bosmans, 23, of Jupiter, Florida, survived along with passengers Aaron Baker, 35, and Audra Green, 23, who live in Columbus, Ohio.
The survivors were taken to the hospital after the crash. Their conditions are unknown.
The Bombardier Challenger 600 business jet had left a Columbus, Ohio, airport earlier in the afternoon bound for Naples Airport, and was just a few miles away when it crashed.
Traffic was backed up for hours after the incident in which the plane crashed into two vehicles and the smoke could be seen for miles.
“Our hearts are heavy and our thoughts are with those impacted by Friday’s tragic events,” Naples Airport said in a statement.
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash.

Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar Cephus (née Almánzar; born October 11, 1992), known professionally as Cardi B, is an American rapper and singer. She is regarded as one of the most commercially successful female rappers of her generation.

Born and raised in New York City, she first gained popularity through videos shared on Vine and Instagram. From 2015 to early 2017, she appeared as a regular cast member on the VH1 reality television series Love & Hip Hop: New York, which depicted her pursuit of her music aspirations, and earned further recognition with the release of her two mixtapes: Gangsta Bitch Music, Vol. 1 (2016) and Vol. 2 (2017).

Her first studio album, Invasion of Privacy (2018), debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and was ranked the top female rap album of the 2010s by Billboard. Critically acclaimed, it made Cardi B the first female artist to win the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album as a solo artist, and marked the first female rap album in 15 years nominated for Album of the Year. It spawned two number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100; with “Bodak Yellow”,

its lead single, Cardi B became the first female rapper to top the Hot 100 with a solo song in the 21st century and the first to achieve a diamond-certified song by the RIAA, while “I Like It” marked the first time a female rapper attained multiple number-one songs on the Hot 100. Her third Hot 100 number-one, the collaboration “Girls Like You” with band Maroon 5, made her the only female rapper to achieve multiple diamond-certified songs by the RIAA. She has since released two singles: “WAP” (featuring Megan Thee Stallion) in 2020 and “Up” in 2021, both of which topped the Hot 100 and other charts worldwide.

Recognized by Forbes as one of the most influential female rappers of all time, Cardi B holds various records among women in hip hop; she is the female rapper with the most number-one singles (five) on the Billboard Hot 100, the only to achieve multiple solo number ones and the only to earn number ones in two decades (2010s and 2020s) on the chart. She is also the female rapper with the most diamond-certified songs (three) by the RIAA, the highest-certified female rapper of all time on their Top Artists (Digital Singles) ranking, and has 100 million certified units (album and songs) sold in the US alone. Additionally,

she is the female rapper with the most songs with a billion streams on Spotify—where she also has the most-streamed female rap album. She was the first lead artist to top the Billboard Global 200. Her accolades include a Grammy Award, eight Billboard Music Awards, six Guinness World Records, six American Music Awards, 14 BET Hip Hop Awards, and two ASCAP Songwriter of the Year awards. In 2018, Time magazine included her on its annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world, and in 2020, Billboard honored her as Woman of the Year. Outside of music, she became the creative director of entertainment magazine Playboy in 2022.

Santorini, Greece, often hailed as the crown jewel of the Aegean, is a picturesque island that exudes charm, beauty, and history. Its iconic whitewashed buildings, stunning sunsets, crystal-clear waters, and captivating landscapes make it a dream destination for travelers seeking a memorable holiday experience. To ensure an unforgettable stay on this enchanting island, here’s a guide on how to have a great holiday on Santorini.

Planning Your Trip:

Choose the Right Time to Visit:

Santorini experiences a Mediterranean climate, with peak tourist seasons during summer (June to August). Consider visiting in late spring (May) or early autumn (September to October) to avoid large crowds and scorching temperatures while still enjoying pleasant weather.

Accommodation:

Select accommodation that complements the island’s aesthetic—many hotels and resorts offer cave-style rooms or traditional Cycladic architecture. Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and Kamari are popular areas with a range of accommodation options catering to various budgets.

Exploring the Island:

Discover the Iconic Villages:

Oia: Famous for its breathtaking sunsets, narrow streets, art galleries, and charming cafes. Fira: The bustling capital with picturesque cliff-side views, vibrant nightlife, and shopping options. Pyrgos: An inland village featuring medieval architecture, serene ambiance, and panoramic vistas.

Beach Hopping:

Explore Santorini’s unique beaches—red, black, and white sand—each with its allure. Red Beach’s dramatic cliffs, Kamari’s black sands, and the white cliffs of Vlychada offer distinct and mesmerizing coastal experiences.

Volcano and Hot Springs:

Embark on a boat tour to Nea Kameni, the volcanic island, where you can hike to the crater and witness remarkable views. Don’t miss the chance to soak in the therapeutic hot springs near Palea Kameni.

Wine Tasting:

Santorini boasts a rich winemaking tradition. Visit local wineries, such as Santo Wines or Venetsanos Winery, to savor exquisite wines made from indigenous grape varieties like Assyrtiko. Enjoy wine tastings while overlooking the caldera.

Experiencing Local Culture:

Indulge in Culinary Delights:

Savor the island’s gastronomy with mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine. Try local specialties like fava (yellow split pea dip), tomato keftedes (tomato fritters), fresh seafood, and the renowned Santorini cherry tomatoes.

Sunset Views:

Witnessing the sunset in Santorini is an absolute must. Head to Oia’s Byzantine Castle ruins or find a cliffside restaurant to witness the breathtaking spectacle—the sun painting the sky in hues of red, orange, and pink as it dips below the horizon.

Cultural Immersion:

Engage in local traditions and festivals if your visit aligns with events like the Santorini International Music Festival or the Ifestia Festival, celebrating the eruption of the volcano with fireworks and cultural performances.

Practical Tips:

Transportation: Renting a car, ATV, or using public buses can help explore the island conveniently.

Reservations: Book popular restaurants and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Respect Local Customs: Embrace the island’s culture and respect local customs and traditions.

Final Thoughts:

A holiday in Santorini offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, delectable cuisine, and unforgettable experiences. To truly have a great holiday on this enchanting island, immerse yourself in its diverse offerings, embrace the relaxed pace of life, and relish every moment amidst the stunning Cycladic backdrop. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Santorini is sure to leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Crete, the largest Greek island, is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. When traveling to Crete, it’s essential to have local currency in hand to make transactions more convenient. One of the most convenient places to exchange money is at the airports on the island. In this article, we will explore the options and procedures for exchanging money at Crete airports.

1.         Arrival at Crete Airports: Crete has two major international airports: Heraklion International Airport (HER) and Chania International Airport (CHQ). Upon arrival at either airport, you will find several options for currency exchange.

2.         Currency Exchange Services: a. Banks: Both airports have banks or bank branches that offer currency exchange services. Banks usually offer competitive exchange rates and provide a secure and reliable way to exchange your money. It’s advisable to check the bank’s opening hours in advance as they might have limited hours of operation, especially during weekends and holidays.

b. Exchange Offices: Numerous exchange offices, also known as currency exchange kiosks or bureaux de change, are available at the airports. These offices cater specifically to travelers and provide a convenient option for exchanging money. However, it’s important to compare the exchange rates and fees at different offices to ensure you get the best deal.

3.         Timing Your Exchange: Timing is crucial when it comes to exchanging money. Exchange rates can fluctuate, and it’s important to keep an eye on the market rates. If you have flexibility, consider monitoring the rates leading up to your trip and exchange your money when the rates are favorable. However, keep in mind that sudden changes in rates are hard to predict, and it’s not advisable to spend excessive time trying to time the market.

4.         Exchange Rates and Fees: Exchange rates and fees can vary between banks and exchange offices. Banks generally offer more competitive rates, while exchange offices might charge higher fees. It’s essential to inquire about any fees or commissions involved before conducting the transaction to avoid any surprises. Compare the rates and fees offered by different providers to ensure you get the best value for your money.

5.         Payment Methods: Most currency exchange services at Crete airports accept major international currencies, such as the Euro, US Dollar, British Pound, and Swiss Franc. Additionally, some offices may accept other popular currencies, but it’s always best to have euros or the currency of your destination country for convenience.

6.         ATMs: Another option to obtain local currency at Crete airports is through ATMs (automated teller machines). ATMs are widely available, and you can use your debit or credit card to withdraw cash in euros. However, be mindful of any foreign transaction fees or ATM withdrawal fees that may be charged by your bank.

7.         Prepaid Travel Cards: Prepaid travel cards are becoming increasingly popular among travelers. These cards allow you to load multiple currencies onto a single card, including euros. They are convenient, and secure, and can be used for transactions at ATMs, shops, and restaurants. Consider obtaining a prepaid travel card before your trip to Crete for added flexibility.

8.         Additional Tips: a. It’s advisable to exchange a small amount of money at the airport to cover immediate expenses and then explore other options in the city for better rates.

b. Inform your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans to ensure smooth transactions and prevent any potential card issues.

c. Keep a record of exchange receipts for reference and potential reimbursement purposes.

Exchanging money at Crete airports is relatively straightforward and offers a convenient option for travelers to obtain local currency. Whether you choose to exchange money at banks, currency exchange offices, or use ATMs, it’s essential to compare rates, fees

Crete is a beautiful island in the Mediterranean with a rich history and culture. Tourists from all over the world visit Crete every year to enjoy its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and delicious food. However, one thing that many tourists struggle with is changing currencies. If you’re planning a trip to Crete and want to get the best exchange rates, this article will guide you through the process.

The first thing to consider when changing currencies is the commission charged by the exchange provider. Most banks and currency exchange offices charge a commission for changing currencies. However, the commission can vary greatly depending on the provider. Some providers may charge a flat rate, while others may charge a percentage of the transaction amount.

To get the lowest commission, it’s important to shop around and compare rates. Don’t just settle for the first exchange provider you come across. Look for providers that offer competitive rates and low commissions. You can do this by searching online, asking locals for recommendations, or checking out exchange rates at the airport.

Another way to save money on currency exchange is to avoid exchanging money at the airport. Airports are notorious for offering poor exchange rates and high commissions. Instead, try to exchange money at a local bank or currency exchange office. You can also withdraw money from an ATM using your debit or credit card. However, be aware that your bank may charge a fee for international transactions.

When exchanging currencies, it’s important to be aware of the current exchange rate. The exchange rate is the value of one currency in relation to another currency. Exchange rates fluctuate constantly, so it’s important to keep an eye on the exchange rate before you exchange your money. You can do this by checking online or using a currency exchange app.

It’s also a good idea to exchange only what you need. Don’t exchange more money than you need for your trip. This will help you avoid unnecessary fees and commissions. Additionally, be sure to keep your exchanged money in a safe place, such as a money belt or a secure wallet.

In summary, changing currencies in Crete can be a tricky process, but it doesn’t have to be. By shopping around for the best exchange rates and lowest commissions, avoiding airport exchange providers, being aware of the current exchange rate, exchanging only what you need, and keeping your money safe, you can get the most out of your currency exchange experience. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip to Crete without worrying about the financial details.

Crete is the largest island in Greece and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is a popular tourist destination with a rich cultural and historical heritage. The island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful landscapes. In order to explore the island and its many attractions, it is essential to have an understanding of the various types of public transportation available on the island.

Public transportation on Crete includes buses, taxis, ferries, and rental cars. Each mode of transportation has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Buses

Buses are the most common form of public transportation on Crete, and they are operated by KTEL, the island’s public bus company. The bus network covers almost the entire island, and there are regular services between all the major cities and towns.

The buses are clean and modern, and the fares are affordable. There are different types of buses available, including express buses, which make fewer stops and are faster, and local buses, which stop at every village and town along the way. Most buses have air conditioning, and some also have free Wi-Fi.

The KTEL bus station in Heraklion is the largest on the island, and it is the main hub for buses traveling to other cities and towns. There are also smaller bus stations in other cities and towns, which serve as local hubs for buses traveling to nearby villages and tourist attractions.

It is important to note that bus schedules and routes may change seasonally, so it is a good idea to check the KTEL website or ask at the bus station for the most up-to-date information.

Taxis

Taxis are also a popular form of public transportation on Crete, especially for short distances or for traveling to more remote areas where buses may not go. Taxis can be found in all the major cities and towns on the island, and they can also be hailed on the street.

The fares for taxis are regulated by law, and there is a standard rate for each trip, which is based on the distance traveled. There are also extra charges for luggage, night trips, and trips to and from the airport or ferry port.

Taxis are generally more expensive than buses, but they are faster and more convenient, especially if you are traveling with a lot of luggage or if you want to go directly to your destination without making any stops.

Ferries

Ferries are an important form of public transportation on Crete, especially for traveling between the island and the mainland, as well as between the different ports on the island. There are regular ferry services to and from Piraeus, the main port of Athens, as well as to and from other islands in the Aegean Sea.

The main ferry ports on Crete are Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymno. There are also smaller ports in other towns and villages along the coast.

Ferries are usually more expensive than buses, but they offer a more scenic and relaxed way to travel. They are also a good option for travelers who want to explore other islands or the mainland of Greece.

Rental Cars

Rental cars are a popular form of transportation on Crete, especially for tourists who want to explore the island at their own pace. There are many car rental companies on the island, and rental rates are competitive.

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the island on your own schedule, and it allows you to visit more remote areas that may not be accessible by public transportation.

However, driving on Crete can be challenging, especially for those who are not used to driving on narrow, winding roads. It is also important to note that parking in the cities and towns can be difficult, especially during the peak tourist season.

To use PayPal to buy currency in Greece, you will need to find a reputable currency exchange service that accepts PayPal as a payment method. Here are the steps you can follow:

Search for currency exchange services in Greece that accept PayPal as a payment method. You can use search engines like Google or Yahoo to find such services.

Check the reviews and ratings of the currency exchange services you find to ensure that they are reputable and trustworthy.

Compare the exchange rates and fees of the currency exchange services to find the one that offers the best value for your money.

Once you have selected a currency exchange service, create an account with them and link your PayPal account to it.

Follow the instructions provided by the currency exchange service to buy the currency you need using PayPal.

Once the transaction is complete, the currency will be transferred to your designated bank account or e-wallet.

It is important to note that PayPal may charge a fee for currency conversion, so be sure to check the applicable fees and rates before making your transaction. Additionally, you should always exercise caution when conducting online transactions and ensure that you are dealing with a legitimate and trustworthy currency exchange service.