My goodness, I wasn't expecting such a huge response! I really have alot to say on the issue of commercialism but I will save it for another day
Let's try and keep Plakias how it is, ( of course things sometimes have to change but it should be on the locals terms NOT the tourists) and yes it is the travellers from europe and the rest of the world that are the influence of change to such villages/resorts and more often than most, the changes are for the worst.
Here's a short story I wrote (YOU can decide if it's fact or fiction..)
Just imagine;
You're approaching plakias, you feel the warm breeze against your face and the warm glow of the sun on your skin. You see the turqoise sea lapping over the shore as the sun sets over dragon mountain. The air is a mixture of sea salt and oregano and as you take in the smells and delights of Crete the thought of traditional Greek delicasies waiting for you at your favourite taverna excites you.
But alas, what is this you see? A new establishment? It's recognisable. You look up in horror at the huge yellow 'M' perched on top of it. You hear a voice, '' May I take your order sir?''............
