Phil Butler

Crete in Peril: Anguish as Greek Island Is Sucked Dry by Progress

Crete, beloved by residents and visitors alike, is in deep peril. The problems of overtourism, infrastructure catastrophes, and climate change fundamentally threaten to degrade the birthplace of Western civilization. By Phil Butler Recent research and a mini-documentary reveal paradise being crushed...

Water Shortage and Negligence on Crete: “Struggling to Flush Toilets”

Crete is facing a severe water shortage problem due to the extreme heat and drought, especially during the summer. However, as Phil Butler reports, the phenomenon cannot be simply attributed to the drought. Central and local governments are responsible...

Cretan Hound Gives Greece Another 1st at World Dog Show

A Cretan Hound (Kritikos Lagonikos) named "Peristeris" just cleared a massive hurdle for his ancient breed to be recognized internationally. By Phil Butler Competing at the FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale World Dog Show 2023 in Geneva, the hunter from Chania made...

Greek Pioneers Apply Regenerative Tourism Ideas in Zanzibar

A group of Greek entrepreneurs who have taken over the management of several hotels in Zanzibar are applying regenerative tourism ideas aimed at achieving more than increased revenues. The concept of regenerative tourism aims to bring transformational experiences to guests...

Overtourism and the Sustainable Future of Hospitality in Greece

By Phil Butler So-called “overtourism” in Greece and Cyprus has less to do with the destination's desirability than with infrastructure and accessibility. It is a symptom of a broader problem. While it’s easy and convenient to blame businesses or even the...

Palestinian Equestrians Trip to Crete Could Serve As Alt-Tourism Model

A Palestinian equestrian club has chosen Crete, Greece as its first Europe excursion. The trip highlights Crete’s alternative tourism potential, which could create a paradigm shift. It is just the extended tourism season Greece needs. By Phil Butler Visiting Europe for...

Crete Research Team Proves Out Remote Dyslexia Testing

RADAR, the groundbreaking dyslexia screening system development from Crete, has managed to make positive moves in spite of the pandemic. By Phil Butler The coronavirus pandemic has disrupted nearly every facet of our lives. All assets and innovation have been focused...

New Greek Pet Law Meets Toughest Opposition Yet

Pet owners and hunters from all over Crete gathered to wage a protest against the controversial pet law proposed by the Greek government.