Testimonials from Our Guests

Last spring, I was honored to host members of the Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association, along with several of their friends. Here's what they had to say about their experience....

The Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association offers an international ecotour every other year, and in 2025 we joined Patricia Kyritsi Howell’s Wild Crete Tour. The experience exceeded all expectations, offering a seamless blend of cultural immersion, botanical education, natural history, herb walks, cooking, and unforgettable meals—all while falling in love with Crete and its people.

We stayed in exceptional guesthouses and were warmly hosted by knowledgeable, generous locals. The optional Athens pre-tour was outstanding, with expert guides who deepened our cultural understanding. Of all the ecotours VBMA has participated in, Wild Crete stood apart. Everything was beautifully arranged—from travel and lodging to remarkable restaurants. We simply showed up and enjoyed the journey. A Wild Crete tour is truly the adventure of a lifetime.

Cynthia Lankenau, New York

My daughter and I loved the 2025 Wild Crete tour. Patricia knows Crete well, and as a tour leader, she accommodated everyone's interests. My daughter, in her early 20's, enjoyed the intergenerational group. The guest houses, food, and cooking lessons were all excellent. Highly recommend for anyone interested in plants, herbs, and food—an authentic cultural experience we couldn't have had on our own.

 Michele K., Canada

This was an amazing trip! Patricia was an incredible tour leader whose local connections made all the difference. I felt like a local rather than a tourist. We hiked, foraged for wild plants, cooked in the homes of Patricia’s friends, and had time to shop for handmade souvenirs, swim in the Aegean Sea, and connect with other guests over leisurely meals. Crete is truly a healing place—I can't wait to go back! 

Kimberly S., California

Patricia took us off the beaten path in Crete, introducing us to multigenerational families who knew and loved the land. The island is filled with wild herbs we’ve studied as herbalists our entire lives; we saw them all on this stunning island . From fresh food to beautiful hikes and the spaces in between, I wholeheartedly recommend this trip not only for plant lovers but also for anyone seeking to experience the traditions of this vibrant culture.

Kat M., Virginia

I traveled to Greece with Wild Crete last year, and I truly cannot say enough good things about the tour. Every day was thoughtfully planned, yet the atmosphere remained relaxed and enjoyable while we learned, explored, and experienced the local cuisine and culture. The trip far exceeded my expectations—from the warm hospitality of Greek grandmothers to the incredible historical tours of ancient ruins. If you love authentic Greek cuisine, breathtaking scenery, and a highly knowledgeable tour organizer, this tour is for you. I highly recommend it!

Sasan H., Canada