About me

A short story about Tonia

Hey there! Nice to meet you :)

I was born and grew up in a small village in Poland, nestled deep in the forest. With only a few houses around, my childhood was spent immersed in nature, exploring the woods with my older brother and our neighbor. My mom worked for the forest administration, and she instilled in me a love for organization and responsibility. My dad, though no longer with us, was a source of endless inspiration with his curiosity, positivity, humor and laid-back attitude despite his illnesses.

They both shaped me profoundly, and I owe them so much of who I am today.

Me, my dad & the wild pig (*)

Adventures with my brother Tobiasz

Zbyszek & Wanda - my beautiful parents at their wedding

One of my favorite quotes is by Mark Nepo: "Maybe all we are searching for is the reflection of everything when looking into the truth of Who We Are." This resonates deeply with my journey and philosophy.

Thank you for considering Tonia’s Cottage for your stay. I hope my story gives you a sense of connection, and I look forward to welcoming you to my beloved Crete.

Warm regards 🌸
Tonia

(*) This photo holds a special place in my heart, as my dad is no longer with us. His memory lives on in the joy, wisdom and curiosity he shared.
He was one of a kind.

Bromba—my dad's beloved dog (in loving memory)

Our Forest Home in Spała Village

Like Alice in Wonderland

Enveloped in nature's magic

Arriving to Crete

My lovely Cretan husband Aris

My Mom & beloved Dad in Crete

Hunting for treasures

My lovely parents—always together

In my free time, I enjoy sailing, swimming & solving puzzles. I am passionate about neuroscience, technology and languages. I also love reading mystery novels and taking peaceful strolls on the beach, looking for shells and admiring nature's tiny details. Living in Crete has allowed me to connect deeply with myself, and I cherish the quiet winter months when the island slows down, giving me time to reflect and appreciate life.

Unexpected acts of kindness move me deeply and remind me of the goodness that exists in people. I believe in the power of vulnerability and in creating space for others to help, connect, and share their own stories. Gratitude shapes my days—I feel incredibly fortunate to live in a time of comfort, possibility, and the freedom to follow our own paths.

I love deep conversations, noticing unspoken things, and imagining the unseen. I see life's ups and downs as opportunities for deeper connection with myself and the world. Likewise, I strive to bring out the best in myself and appreciate the magic hidden in ordinary moments of everyday life.

From a young age, I felt a deep connection to nature and the people around me. I was always curious about the world and wondered about different ways of living. This curiosity led me to study tourism and business management. In my final year of studies, I visited Crete for the first time, and it was love at first sight. The moment I stepped off the plane and smelled the sea air at Heraklion Airport, I knew I had found a special place.

During my time in Crete, I met my partner—now my husband—who is originally from the island. After spending two years together in England, we both felt a strong pull back to Crete. It quickly became clear that this was where we truly belonged. We returned and made it our home. The island’s natural beauty and vibrant energy ground me, and I can’t imagine my life anywhere else.

For nearly 20 years, I’ve embraced Cretan culture, learned the language, and discovered the island’s many treasures. Crete gives me everything I need—majestic mountains, crystal-clear seas, hidden lakes, and endless opportunities for adventure. The warmth and hospitality of the people made me feel at home from the very beginning. I’m especially inspired by the strength and presence of Cretan women and the deep respect they command in the local culture.