As many of you may know that follow me on Facebook, I spent a week last year on what I call the Magic Bus, also known as the Old Bus. This year I returned to the bus and it was magical as ever. This place is what can only be described as “my happy place”. And I wanted to take you on a video journey of this amazing place.
Getting To The Magic Bus
It’s a journey to get to the Magic Bus. You can’t get there by public transportation. It’s a long and winding drive that is both beautiful and terrifying. If you have never been to Crete the roads are hilly and all over the place. I had become used to them when I was driving around last year with my family.
But, the difference is last year I took a cab to the bus and this year I drove. And I white-knuckled it the whole way down. It is basically a one-way street down a mountain with no side rails. I could feel my stomach churning as I had my foot constantly on the break. But once you get down there it is definitely worth it, as you will see.
If you are scared of heights I would suggest getting a cab down. The owners will even offer to arrange one for you that will pick you up at the grocery store in a nearby town. Since the bus is in a secluded spot, you will want to be picked up at the grocery store. Because once you are down there. You are down there.
How To Prepare
If you ever choose to vacation on the Magic Bus and I suggest you do, there are a few things you should know. The Bus is almost how I imagine camping would be, except you have working electricity, internet, and running water. Okay, so probably nothing like camping. But there are a couple of essentials you’ll want to bring along.
The number one thing is dishes and cooking essentials. The Magic Bus doesn’t provide anything to cook with or eat on. So make sure you pick up some paper plates and utensils. You can also find a cheap pot or pan in the village before you leave in your car. I stuck with cold foods. Sandwiches and salads got me through my week. But, if you want a hot meal pots and pans aren’t included. Oh. And don’t forget large bottles of bottled water. The water is fine for cooking and showering, but not the best for drinking.
There is limited internet on the bus. So if you need to watch that movie at night or have kids you need to entertain, I suggest downloading those movies on your I-pad before heading down. They just don’t have unlimited internet on the bus. So, if you want to be on social media constantly or need to check your email a lot, buy a local sim card.
The final thing is to be ready to relax. I’m a city boy 100%. I love exploring cities. But as I’ve gotten older, I have found the smaller the town, the more relaxed I am. After living in New York and San Francisco, I didn’t realize how much I loved to relax. So, go in with an open mind that this place is very secluded. Make sure you like the person you go with. I was by myself, so I had no problem. But, just be prepared to relax.
What To Expect At The Magic Bus
You probably are all thinking just get to the video already. I do that all the time with recipe websites. But, I just wanted to close by saying there is nothing like this experience. This was my second year coming, and I hope to make it an annual trip. There is so much to see and do in this little part of the world.
I struggle with happiness sometimes. I get frustrated with the world. This place will take that away. Whether it’s swimming in the natural pond, hiking the gorges, or just watching the sunset. You will never experience anything like this. And if you want to know more about the magic bus feel free to email me at youchoosemyadventure@gmail.com
So here it is. My first video of my new youtube channel. Please follow the page and like the video, as that will help others see it as well. And if you do like it, please share it on your socials. Please be kind. I’m new to editing, so it’s not perfect. But, it will give you a glimpse into this magic place I love so much.
Gail Estling
This is so cool! I want to send a week there!!! What a beautiful place!