Hi All...will be traveling to Crete in mid-April for a combination work meeting/pleasure outing. I am responsible for organizing this event.

All told, there will be 12 people from work (a mix of Indians from Bangalore, and Italians from the Genoa area, and a couple of Americans) plus spouses/sig. others. Work will be 1-2 days and then 2-3 days of pleasure. Spouses/SO's will need activities or outings on work days. My plan would be to base/stay in one area, and then arrange for day trips to other areas and sites. My primary question is...where in Crete should we hold our meeting/base from?

I have been looking at Chania (Hania), which is described as being "charming" with its Venetian port and architecture. Chania also has an airport (an important consideration). Others in the group mentioned Iraklion (Heraklion), because it's the easiest to fly into, and closest to significant archaeological sites (e.g. Knossos). Still others suggest beach resort areas (sorry, can't remember the names..although I'm assuming that mid-April is probably too early for swimming/beach enjoyment. Please tell me if that's wrong). At this point, I'm having difficulty sorting through all the input I've gotten, and all the info available on the web.

So, is there anybody out there with direct experience, or who can recommend a good travel agent with lots of Crete experience? Are there any "must sees" that we should not miss? Any and all thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!