Yes, Simply red are playing in Cyprus in Pafiakos Stadium on the 7th June 2008. Tickets are on sale from the 3rd December 2007 and tickets range from 99.10euros to 129euros. Doors are set to open at 19.00hours.
If you are on holiday in Cyprus in June its a great chance for a night out, we saw Brian Adams open air concert in 2007 and it was amazing!!! Other concerts in 2007 where 50cent which was also a great night for everyone! In 2008 apart from Simply red there is also Pink Floyd set to play in May... http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/pink-floyd-set-to-play-in-cyprus-2008.html
See the Simply red website / homepage for more information on how to purchase tickets for the simply red concert in Cyprus in 2008...
http://www.simplyred.com/tour/index.php?year=2008&id=863
For accommodation for the concert, try www.spotonvillarentals.com for rentals for holiday apartment and villas all over Cyprus, including Paphos, Protaras, Ayia Napa, Larnaca and Limasol. For transportation to and from the concert try www.emantravel.com
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
PINK FLOYD SET TO PLAY IN CYPRUS 2008 MAY 9TH
Pink Floyd has rumours flying all over the island of Cyprus at the moment, that they will be playing a concert in the Nicosia Buffer Zone close to the green line devide. Negotiations for the band to perform the concert is looking likely for the 9th of May 2008 in Nicosi. Tickets are not yet on sale but when they are i will let you know where to get them.
Last year Brian Adams and 50cent were playing in Cyprus, this year Simply red are playing in June 2008.
If you are looking for accomodation in Cyprus, check out www.spotonvillarentals.com for villas and apartments and then get taxis / mini bus at great rates through www.emantravel.com. This is what we did for the concerts in 2007, arranged for all the girls to go to the concert together, such a great night that none of us had the energy to keep our eyes open on the way home!!!
Last year Brian Adams and 50cent were playing in Cyprus, this year Simply red are playing in June 2008.
If you are looking for accomodation in Cyprus, check out www.spotonvillarentals.com for villas and apartments and then get taxis / mini bus at great rates through www.emantravel.com. This is what we did for the concerts in 2007, arranged for all the girls to go to the concert together, such a great night that none of us had the energy to keep our eyes open on the way home!!!
History of Paralimni Cyprus
Paralimni is the heart of Protaras, Kapparis, Pernera, Ayia Triada, Cape Greco and Ayia Napa. It is also the main town for the areas of Dherinia, Freneros, Sotera and Vrysoulles.
The reason Paralimni is the the "heart" is because it is the main town / village for the east coast of Cyprus. Having a variety of shops for both clothes, Jewelry, food, shoes and also amenities such as hospitals, schools, supermarkets and large retail stores.
In Paralimni there are two main areas, the "Square" and the "Shop street" as i like to call it, its road name is 1st April Street and the square is known as the square.
The "shop" street, has shops on both sides of the roads, plenty of pet shops, solicitors, banks, electrical shops and furniture stores. You will also find two supermarkets Carefour and Kokkinos along with numerous bakeries and "peripteros" or Kiosks as we know them.
The square is more of the history that keeps the town together, St Georges Church in the Centre, the narrow streets, pleasant coffee shops that are modern and characterised, the parks for children, and the town hall / amphitheatre for entertainment of local traditions. the website is http://www.paralimni.org.cy/
To get to the square or out of the square, buses run frequently all year round, or car hire / taxis are advised. You can walk from areas such as Kapparis which are close by.
To tell you a bit about the history of Paralimni, the name means "by the lake" as originally the land where Paralimni was built would fill with water in the winter time and become a lake. Originally Paralimni was built on a hill between where it is now and Dherinia area now it has its place where it is today from the 15th Century.
Paralimni was declared a municipality only in 1986, the new mayor is Andreas Evaggelou which lasts until 2011.
The football stadium in Paralimni is also of great importance, if you are ever in Cyprus, visit a local match, the tickets are not expensive and the atmosphere is well worth it. Paralimni are a first division team in Cyprus.
some of my other links for Paralimni are:
http://cyprusbeaches.blogspot.com/2008/01/protaras-beaches.html
http://cyprusbeaches.blogspot.com/2008/01/cyprus-blue-flag-beaches.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/about-kapparis-in-cyprus.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/long-term-renting-in-cyprus.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/history-of-protaras-cyprus.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/history-about-ayia-napa.html
http://www.spotonvillarentals.com
http://www.paralimni.org.cy
The reason Paralimni is the the "heart" is because it is the main town / village for the east coast of Cyprus. Having a variety of shops for both clothes, Jewelry, food, shoes and also amenities such as hospitals, schools, supermarkets and large retail stores.
In Paralimni there are two main areas, the "Square" and the "Shop street" as i like to call it, its road name is 1st April Street and the square is known as the square.
The "shop" street, has shops on both sides of the roads, plenty of pet shops, solicitors, banks, electrical shops and furniture stores. You will also find two supermarkets Carefour and Kokkinos along with numerous bakeries and "peripteros" or Kiosks as we know them.
The square is more of the history that keeps the town together, St Georges Church in the Centre, the narrow streets, pleasant coffee shops that are modern and characterised, the parks for children, and the town hall / amphitheatre for entertainment of local traditions. the website is http://www.paralimni.org.cy/
To get to the square or out of the square, buses run frequently all year round, or car hire / taxis are advised. You can walk from areas such as Kapparis which are close by.
To tell you a bit about the history of Paralimni, the name means "by the lake" as originally the land where Paralimni was built would fill with water in the winter time and become a lake. Originally Paralimni was built on a hill between where it is now and Dherinia area now it has its place where it is today from the 15th Century.
Paralimni was declared a municipality only in 1986, the new mayor is Andreas Evaggelou which lasts until 2011.
The football stadium in Paralimni is also of great importance, if you are ever in Cyprus, visit a local match, the tickets are not expensive and the atmosphere is well worth it. Paralimni are a first division team in Cyprus.
some of my other links for Paralimni are:
http://cyprusbeaches.blogspot.com/2008/01/protaras-beaches.html
http://cyprusbeaches.blogspot.com/2008/01/cyprus-blue-flag-beaches.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/about-kapparis-in-cyprus.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/long-term-renting-in-cyprus.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/history-of-protaras-cyprus.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/history-about-ayia-napa.html
http://www.spotonvillarentals.com
http://www.paralimni.org.cy
About Kapparis in Cyprus
Kapparis is situated between Protaras and Paralimni area in the east coast of Cyprus.
It is well known for apartment rentals in Cyprus, private accommodation for either long or short term rentals. The area is becoming more and more popular for families, with blue flag award beaches close by, an all year round resort consisting of plenty of amenities day and night and also ideal for main shopping areas for bulk food and clothes shopping.
In Kapparis itself stands a variety of restaurants to choose from, fish and chips, Karras and Faliros for local traditional Cyprus Foods,Just Italian for Italian cuisine and many others.
There is a new bakery opening in the street for lots of traditional sweet foods and a tea room to enjoy the summer lunch times, also a rumour that a new piano wine bar will open too... Adding to the plenty of bars offering a variety of entertainment!!!
Kapparis is only a few minutes to Orphanidies supermarket, for all your bulk shopping needs. And you can walk in to the main town of Paralimni from Kapparis which offers plenty of shops, local taverns, coffee shops and history all built around the church in the middle of the square.
Close to the Kapparis area is the local aquarium and water park of Pernera, ideal for children's / family entertainment. Also there is the new marina with coffee shop and lovely sandy beach called the Golden Coast beach in Pernera.
In Kapparis there are two main beaches of attraction, one is "Firemans Beach" and the other is "Ayia Triada" beach. Ayia Triada is a small beach overlooked by Ayia Triada church, there is a small marina and also water sports here as well. Firemans beach is a lovely sandy cove, walking distance from Kapparis main street.
Have a look at some of my links which may help with more information on what to do around Kapparis.
http://cyprusbeaches.blogspot.com/2008/01/cyprus-blue-flag-beaches.html
Protaras beaches
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/long-term-renting-in-cyprus.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/sweet-cyprus-traditional-foods.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/traditional-cyprus-foods.html
http://www.spotonvillarentals.com/apartment-rentals-cyprus.php
It is well known for apartment rentals in Cyprus, private accommodation for either long or short term rentals. The area is becoming more and more popular for families, with blue flag award beaches close by, an all year round resort consisting of plenty of amenities day and night and also ideal for main shopping areas for bulk food and clothes shopping.
In Kapparis itself stands a variety of restaurants to choose from, fish and chips, Karras and Faliros for local traditional Cyprus Foods,Just Italian for Italian cuisine and many others.
There is a new bakery opening in the street for lots of traditional sweet foods and a tea room to enjoy the summer lunch times, also a rumour that a new piano wine bar will open too... Adding to the plenty of bars offering a variety of entertainment!!!
Kapparis is only a few minutes to Orphanidies supermarket, for all your bulk shopping needs. And you can walk in to the main town of Paralimni from Kapparis which offers plenty of shops, local taverns, coffee shops and history all built around the church in the middle of the square.
Close to the Kapparis area is the local aquarium and water park of Pernera, ideal for children's / family entertainment. Also there is the new marina with coffee shop and lovely sandy beach called the Golden Coast beach in Pernera.
In Kapparis there are two main beaches of attraction, one is "Firemans Beach" and the other is "Ayia Triada" beach. Ayia Triada is a small beach overlooked by Ayia Triada church, there is a small marina and also water sports here as well. Firemans beach is a lovely sandy cove, walking distance from Kapparis main street.
Have a look at some of my links which may help with more information on what to do around Kapparis.
http://cyprusbeaches.blogspot.com/2008/01/cyprus-blue-flag-beaches.html
Protaras beaches
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/long-term-renting-in-cyprus.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/sweet-cyprus-traditional-foods.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/traditional-cyprus-foods.html
http://www.spotonvillarentals.com/apartment-rentals-cyprus.php
Monday, January 21, 2008
Aphrodities Rock (Petra tou Romiou)
Aphrodites rock.
Also known as Petra tou Romiou ‘the rock of the greek’ is situated close to Limasol, in between Limasol and Larnaca. It is one of the most picturesque beaches with deep waters and crystal views. Lots of grottoes are in this area as well if you look closely...
People come from all over cyprus to see Aphrodities Rock, Protaras and Ayia Napa area to Limasol, Larnaca and Paphos. Remeber to get from one end of the island to the other it is only about 3hours by car...
A bit of history on Aphrodite, she is the Greek Godess of love and beauty. Legend has it that this rock is the birthplace of here, she is born from the foam of the sea around this rock. that this is the birthplace of Aphrodite. In the past, many people came here to join in the fertillity rituals both here and the nearby temple.
Always a great tourist attraction, the landscape surroudning the rock has a harmony of its own, a landscape that is untouched and the sunsets over here, are set to be one of the most beautiful on the island...
These links may be of interest to you:
Turtles nesting in Cyprus
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/nesting-place-of-turtles-in-cyprus-at.html
Festivals
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/ayia-napa-festival.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/cyprus-carnival-weeks.html
Concerts in Cyprus 2008
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/pink-floyd-set-to-play-in-cyprus-2008.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/simply-red-playing-in-cyprus-june-2008.html
Car hire and rentals
www.spotonvillarentals.com for long and short term rentals in cyprus, car hire, flights and information
Also known as Petra tou Romiou ‘the rock of the greek’ is situated close to Limasol, in between Limasol and Larnaca. It is one of the most picturesque beaches with deep waters and crystal views. Lots of grottoes are in this area as well if you look closely...
People come from all over cyprus to see Aphrodities Rock, Protaras and Ayia Napa area to Limasol, Larnaca and Paphos. Remeber to get from one end of the island to the other it is only about 3hours by car...
A bit of history on Aphrodite, she is the Greek Godess of love and beauty. Legend has it that this rock is the birthplace of here, she is born from the foam of the sea around this rock. that this is the birthplace of Aphrodite. In the past, many people came here to join in the fertillity rituals both here and the nearby temple.
Always a great tourist attraction, the landscape surroudning the rock has a harmony of its own, a landscape that is untouched and the sunsets over here, are set to be one of the most beautiful on the island...
These links may be of interest to you:
Turtles nesting in Cyprus
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/nesting-place-of-turtles-in-cyprus-at.html
Festivals
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/ayia-napa-festival.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/cyprus-carnival-weeks.html
Concerts in Cyprus 2008
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/pink-floyd-set-to-play-in-cyprus-2008.html
http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/simply-red-playing-in-cyprus-june-2008.html
Car hire and rentals
www.spotonvillarentals.com for long and short term rentals in cyprus, car hire, flights and information
The nesting place of turtles in Cyprus at Lara Beach
Lara Beach is at the Akamas peninsula. People come from all over Cyprus both residents and holiday makers from Protaras and Ayia Napa, Paphos and Limasol to visit the beach. It can only be reached by 4x4 and you can mainly only visit any months of the year apart from August and September. Carehire. We found avilla rental in Ayia Napa and the unspoilt beauty was amazing.
The Akamas area is the last large unspoilt coastal area in Cyprus and plays a huge importance. The beach is the home of the turtles, Ammoudi beach which is shaped like a horse shoe, since 1978 there is a hatchery here. The beaches are isolated and protected, thus turtles come to lay their eggs between august and September. The Loggerhead Turtle and the rarer Green Turtle nest here. The Green Turtle relies deeply on the Akamas beaches for its survival. In the nesting months, eggs laid in other places are also brought to the bay for protection.
If you liked this post, then there are lots of other posts similar to this one, Blue flag beaches for information on all the beaches in Cyprus, there is also information on Ayia Napa beaches and Protaras beaches
There are many other things to do and see in Cyprus, you should have a look at Ayia Napa Festival and the Cyprus carnival as they are really nice events that happen in Cyprus. Great entertainment if you are visiting Cyprus for holidays.
The Akamas area is the last large unspoilt coastal area in Cyprus and plays a huge importance. The beach is the home of the turtles, Ammoudi beach which is shaped like a horse shoe, since 1978 there is a hatchery here. The beaches are isolated and protected, thus turtles come to lay their eggs between august and September. The Loggerhead Turtle and the rarer Green Turtle nest here. The Green Turtle relies deeply on the Akamas beaches for its survival. In the nesting months, eggs laid in other places are also brought to the bay for protection.
If you liked this post, then there are lots of other posts similar to this one, Blue flag beaches for information on all the beaches in Cyprus, there is also information on Ayia Napa beaches and Protaras beaches
There are many other things to do and see in Cyprus, you should have a look at Ayia Napa Festival and the Cyprus carnival as they are really nice events that happen in Cyprus. Great entertainment if you are visiting Cyprus for holidays.
Lofou village in Cyprus
People from All over Cyprus travel to Lofou, in the summer people escape the heat and in winter people enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and the log fires. A traditional village which will make you feel like you have stepped out of the present Cyprus and back in to the past.
‘Lofou’ village is northwest of Limasol, it’s a village made of stone houses 800meters above sea level surrounded by natural beauty. The cobbled streets, the traditional restaurants with log fires and amazing cuisine will take your breath away.
I first visited Lofou about a year ago and it was out of this world, I hired a car and we drove from the east of Cyprus all the way there. The immediate feeling was of isolation, looking around I never knew somewhere so calming existed. Wandering through the cobbled pathways we came to a court yard with wooden doors, inside four individual stone buildings, with wooden doors, not like the ones in the world today with a key and security locks, but one with a bolt. Entering the room was again all stone with wooden beams on the ceiling. Behind the bed was candles built in to the walls, its was relaxing and calming and romantic all in one moment. We had been renting a villa in Protaras Cyprus through Spot on villa rentals Cyprus and both were ideal in their own ways, completely different but both very memorable.
There is a small restaurant with a log fire and amazing food, again everything is built from stone. The ideal place for a weekend away from reality. Lofou is close to Troodos and Limasol and people from all over the island visit at some point, from Paralimni and Protaras to Pahos and Polis. The website is http://www.lofou-agrovino.com/ and it comes highly recommended for a weekend away.
‘Lofou’ village is northwest of Limasol, it’s a village made of stone houses 800meters above sea level surrounded by natural beauty. The cobbled streets, the traditional restaurants with log fires and amazing cuisine will take your breath away.
I first visited Lofou about a year ago and it was out of this world, I hired a car and we drove from the east of Cyprus all the way there. The immediate feeling was of isolation, looking around I never knew somewhere so calming existed. Wandering through the cobbled pathways we came to a court yard with wooden doors, inside four individual stone buildings, with wooden doors, not like the ones in the world today with a key and security locks, but one with a bolt. Entering the room was again all stone with wooden beams on the ceiling. Behind the bed was candles built in to the walls, its was relaxing and calming and romantic all in one moment. We had been renting a villa in Protaras Cyprus through Spot on villa rentals Cyprus and both were ideal in their own ways, completely different but both very memorable.
There is a small restaurant with a log fire and amazing food, again everything is built from stone. The ideal place for a weekend away from reality. Lofou is close to Troodos and Limasol and people from all over the island visit at some point, from Paralimni and Protaras to Pahos and Polis. The website is http://www.lofou-agrovino.com/ and it comes highly recommended for a weekend away.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
History about Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa is the well known resort of "clubbers" paradise. It is also the quaint village located in between Larnaca and Protaras and is in reach of some beautiful areas including, Ayia Thekla, Pernera, Paralimni, Xylofagou and Sotera villages.
The history of Ayia Napa is a fascinating one and the tale is mentioned bellow. Ayia Napa had a population of 200people before 20years and was a small poor fishing village, the local people struggled to put food on the table as the only income came from the fishing port. The village was covered with forestry and thus hunters frequently visited the area. Years ago there was a hunter out hunting with his party, he came across a cave which he entered. Upon his entrance he found the icon of "Saint Panayia" which is Mary mother of Christ translated. This was a large discovery for the hunter of which he decided to turn the cave in to a church, and built a small church on top of the caves. This is how Ayia Napa took its name.
Ayia Napa is one of the most popular tourist resorts in Cyprus and more likely the most famous. It became popular after 1974 and now offers a lively night out amongst various restaurants and bars along with traditional cafeterias and venturing on to the outskirts there is a feeling of peace and tranquility that will fulfill you. The walkways have been created along the coast line, with picnic areas for enjoyment, the palm trees sway gently untouched and the harbour offers a quiet and relaxing place to visit.
Not forgeting the beaches that Ayia Napa has to offer, with beautiful sand and some life to them as well. Ideal resort for families and couples along with the old and young. Some of the beaches well known are Nissi Beach, Macronisos beach and Sandy bay all running along Ayia Napa. Further along towards Ayia Thekla you also have Ayia Thekla beach. Have a look at the blue flag beaches in Ayia Napa at Cyprus Beaches
When holidays are close by you start thinking about the best resort for your holidays, try carhire for car hire prices and also villa rentals close to Ayia Napa and make the most out of your holidays. You should visit the "Thallasa" museum in Ayia Napa which is a sea museum showing lots of history from the area. Also, visit the church and monastery in Ayia Napa, dont miss that. Plus each year there is a festival held in the summer, the Ayia Napa festival with live local music, wine tasting and traditional bits and pieces. Christmas is a nice time in Ayia Napa, with the square decorated with Christmas lights, and more traditions put in place.
See also my blog on the history of Protaras Cyprus. History of Protaras Cyprus
The history of Ayia Napa is a fascinating one and the tale is mentioned bellow. Ayia Napa had a population of 200people before 20years and was a small poor fishing village, the local people struggled to put food on the table as the only income came from the fishing port. The village was covered with forestry and thus hunters frequently visited the area. Years ago there was a hunter out hunting with his party, he came across a cave which he entered. Upon his entrance he found the icon of "Saint Panayia" which is Mary mother of Christ translated. This was a large discovery for the hunter of which he decided to turn the cave in to a church, and built a small church on top of the caves. This is how Ayia Napa took its name.
Ayia Napa is one of the most popular tourist resorts in Cyprus and more likely the most famous. It became popular after 1974 and now offers a lively night out amongst various restaurants and bars along with traditional cafeterias and venturing on to the outskirts there is a feeling of peace and tranquility that will fulfill you. The walkways have been created along the coast line, with picnic areas for enjoyment, the palm trees sway gently untouched and the harbour offers a quiet and relaxing place to visit.
Not forgeting the beaches that Ayia Napa has to offer, with beautiful sand and some life to them as well. Ideal resort for families and couples along with the old and young. Some of the beaches well known are Nissi Beach, Macronisos beach and Sandy bay all running along Ayia Napa. Further along towards Ayia Thekla you also have Ayia Thekla beach. Have a look at the blue flag beaches in Ayia Napa at Cyprus Beaches
When holidays are close by you start thinking about the best resort for your holidays, try carhire for car hire prices and also villa rentals close to Ayia Napa and make the most out of your holidays. You should visit the "Thallasa" museum in Ayia Napa which is a sea museum showing lots of history from the area. Also, visit the church and monastery in Ayia Napa, dont miss that. Plus each year there is a festival held in the summer, the Ayia Napa festival with live local music, wine tasting and traditional bits and pieces. Christmas is a nice time in Ayia Napa, with the square decorated with Christmas lights, and more traditions put in place.
See also my blog on the history of Protaras Cyprus. History of Protaras Cyprus
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Sweet Cyprus traditional foods
If you are anything like me, i love sweet foods... i cant get enough!!! Thats why Cyprus is a delight... because there are many things available all over the island.
Honey, nuts and yogurt is a refreshing morning meal and very light but filling at the same time. An after dinner offering could be "Glyko" which translates as "sweet" which are preserves, usually every type of fruit, green walnuts, small eggplants and thick peels of all citrus fruits, water melon peel and also citrus blossoms. You will hear a traditional saying in Cyprus "my mum makes this different to yours" thats why every recipe is always different and the recipe is passed down from generation to generation. In local villages such as Kapparis, Paralimni, Xylofagou, Sotera, Dherinia and other villages all over Cyprus you may be served this after dinner. However, if you visit the mountains of Cyprus, Troodos mountains and areas such as Lofou you can buy these preserves in jars.
Bakeries are not a good idea to visit but are really really worth it. There are lots of finger foods both sweet and savory. One of my favorites is "Bourekia", made with anari cheese which is sweet and fresh milk and looks like a pastry. Another favorite of mine is "Ladies fingers" very sweet and covered in honey... bakeries have lots of delights to make your mouth water. when you live in Cyprus long term you will certainly become accustom to the bakeries!!!
At Christmas there are two types of cakes, a Christmas cake and a new years eve cake. The Christmas cake is the same as most cakes and is usually home made, decorated with icing and decorations and shared between the family. However the new years cake is made with a coin inside... the person who receives the coin is traditionally going to have good luck all the new year.
On a children's party, each member of the guests (one from the family) will bring a cake, it is polite to bring a sweet if visiting someone in Cyprus but it doesn't matter if it is home made or bought from the bakery. There are some amazing cakes that are made by each member of the family and a great way to learn new recipes, i visited a birthday party in Paralimni, the little boy was four, it was an amazing event, the children played and the adults sat together eating and laughing and joking.
If you decide to go to Cyprus on holiday or are thinking to live in Cyprus permanently, it is a great idea to visit the local places, one word of advice "if a place is full with local people, then it is probably a great place to eat". If you are renting in Cyprus for holidays, try http://www.spotonvillarentals.com/ and then visit orphanidies or Kokinos the local supermarkets and pick up some of the Cyprus specials that i have been talking about... wow, my mouth is watering now!!!
Honey, nuts and yogurt is a refreshing morning meal and very light but filling at the same time. An after dinner offering could be "Glyko" which translates as "sweet" which are preserves, usually every type of fruit, green walnuts, small eggplants and thick peels of all citrus fruits, water melon peel and also citrus blossoms. You will hear a traditional saying in Cyprus "my mum makes this different to yours" thats why every recipe is always different and the recipe is passed down from generation to generation. In local villages such as Kapparis, Paralimni, Xylofagou, Sotera, Dherinia and other villages all over Cyprus you may be served this after dinner. However, if you visit the mountains of Cyprus, Troodos mountains and areas such as Lofou you can buy these preserves in jars.
Bakeries are not a good idea to visit but are really really worth it. There are lots of finger foods both sweet and savory. One of my favorites is "Bourekia", made with anari cheese which is sweet and fresh milk and looks like a pastry. Another favorite of mine is "Ladies fingers" very sweet and covered in honey... bakeries have lots of delights to make your mouth water. when you live in Cyprus long term you will certainly become accustom to the bakeries!!!
At Christmas there are two types of cakes, a Christmas cake and a new years eve cake. The Christmas cake is the same as most cakes and is usually home made, decorated with icing and decorations and shared between the family. However the new years cake is made with a coin inside... the person who receives the coin is traditionally going to have good luck all the new year.
On a children's party, each member of the guests (one from the family) will bring a cake, it is polite to bring a sweet if visiting someone in Cyprus but it doesn't matter if it is home made or bought from the bakery. There are some amazing cakes that are made by each member of the family and a great way to learn new recipes, i visited a birthday party in Paralimni, the little boy was four, it was an amazing event, the children played and the adults sat together eating and laughing and joking.
If you decide to go to Cyprus on holiday or are thinking to live in Cyprus permanently, it is a great idea to visit the local places, one word of advice "if a place is full with local people, then it is probably a great place to eat". If you are renting in Cyprus for holidays, try http://www.spotonvillarentals.com/ and then visit orphanidies or Kokinos the local supermarkets and pick up some of the Cyprus specials that i have been talking about... wow, my mouth is watering now!!!
Enjoy!!!
See also my Traditional Cyprus foods.
Traditional Cyprus foods
The Cypriot food is wonderful, there are lots of different types of foods available and it is great to know what is in foods before you visit Cyprus so that you can also try some of these delights. "Kopiaste" in old Greek, literally means take the trouble but the meaning is really "take the trouble to come and sit with us, eat and drink with us and talk with us".
If you are going on a family holiday in Cyprus, then hire a car and venture in to the villages Xylofagou, Dherinia, Freneros, Sotera, Paralimni and Kapparis. This way you can truly experience the traditional foods and cultures of Cyprus.
Afelia... usually made with pork, coriander, corn oil, red dry wine and salt and pepper and usually served with mashed potato or potatoes of some sort.
Kleftico... Sealed lamb cooked very slowly in a clay oven, the sort of food that falls off the bone when you eat it. Served with potatoes it makes for a lovely meal.
Tavas... again a lamb dish, cooked with onions and ripe tomatoes and usually a spice like artisha for a distinct taste. Again served with potatoes.
Stifado... a beef dish this time, done with onions, bay leaves, garlic cloves, dry red wine, olive oil, Cinnamon sticks, pepper corns and tomato.
Meze... this was the meal that was originally made up off leftovers. It was small bits of different foods put on the table for everyone to try everything. There are two types of mezes in Cyprus now, the meat meze and the fish meze. They are a great way for trying different types of foods in small sizes.
When you take your family holiday to Cyprus make sure you try these, the Kleftico is probably the best to try first! There are many traditional Greek taverns in Cyprus all over the island. I rented an apartment through http://www.spotonvillarentals.com/ and they told me some great places in land to try, one was in Vrysouless, "LouLoudia" or known as the "shack". A tiny place with amazing food. Look it up if you go to Cyprus... Another place is Olympus in Protaras.
If you are going on a family holiday in Cyprus, then hire a car and venture in to the villages Xylofagou, Dherinia, Freneros, Sotera, Paralimni and Kapparis. This way you can truly experience the traditional foods and cultures of Cyprus.
Afelia... usually made with pork, coriander, corn oil, red dry wine and salt and pepper and usually served with mashed potato or potatoes of some sort.
Kleftico... Sealed lamb cooked very slowly in a clay oven, the sort of food that falls off the bone when you eat it. Served with potatoes it makes for a lovely meal.
Tavas... again a lamb dish, cooked with onions and ripe tomatoes and usually a spice like artisha for a distinct taste. Again served with potatoes.
Stifado... a beef dish this time, done with onions, bay leaves, garlic cloves, dry red wine, olive oil, Cinnamon sticks, pepper corns and tomato.
Meze... this was the meal that was originally made up off leftovers. It was small bits of different foods put on the table for everyone to try everything. There are two types of mezes in Cyprus now, the meat meze and the fish meze. They are a great way for trying different types of foods in small sizes.
When you take your family holiday to Cyprus make sure you try these, the Kleftico is probably the best to try first! There are many traditional Greek taverns in Cyprus all over the island. I rented an apartment through http://www.spotonvillarentals.com/ and they told me some great places in land to try, one was in Vrysouless, "LouLoudia" or known as the "shack". A tiny place with amazing food. Look it up if you go to Cyprus... Another place is Olympus in Protaras.
"Kopiaste"
See also my blog on sweet Cyprus traditional foods. http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/sweet-cyprus-traditional-foods.html
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Long term renting in Cyprus
Renting in Cyprus is the alternative to buying a property in Cyprus.
When you are in the middle of a decision of 'to buy or not to buy' why not rent. Thats what i did when i first moved to Cyprus. I had been to Cyprus a lot of times for holidays but things are different when you live somewhere, you are not on holiday any more so how do you decide where to live without actually being there.
I first rented an apartment in Protaras, a one bedroom furnished apartment and then moved to a two bedroom apartment in Pernera. The apartment in Protaras was so central for Protaras and was great for holidays but as i discovered not so great for long term living. My next apartment that i rented in Pernera was ideal, quiet and relaxing and perfect for walking to the beach and Pernera. After that i decided that i would actually prefer to be closer to the main town of Paralimni, where i now live as it is walking distance to the centre and only a 2minute drive to the beach and is open all year. Plus there is lots of local people around me which i wanted, i didnt move to Cyprus to be around only English speaking people.
The most important thing to do when renting is be picky. If you are moving over and wish to rent for a year or more, then book an apartment for a holiday for example, two three nights or short term like one month until you find something you like. If you move over and rush in to things then things will go wrong! Once you have found your dream property dont let it go, i did that too, found a perfect apartment and then by the time i blinked it had gone. In cyprus apartments and villas dont wait around forever.
There are lots of areas you can rent in Cyprus. If you rent an apartment in Kapparis, there is lots of choices for unfurnished and furnished properties. For local traditional life you should rent in Paralimni areas, whether you rent an apartment or villa in Paralimni you will get used to the local traditions and also ideal for schools. For more of the village life you should rent an apartment in Xylofagou or rent a villa in Freneros, all surrounding villages of Paralimni and Protaras.
When i rented there was a variety of apartments and villas available, you may be asked to put down a damage deposit of between 1 and 3 months and although most pay monthly you may be asked to pay one year in advance or 6months rent in advance. Always make sure you use a repretable company and have contracts secured. Try Spot On Villa rentals long term rentals in Cyprus
Be aware that most places are not to keen on pets, so look in advance if you have cats or dogs as they will be harder to come by!
History of Protaras Cyprus
If you have ever been to Protaras in Cyprus then you will know that the family resort has a lot to offer!!!
Protaras is the horse shoe shaped town situated between Paralimni and Ayia Napa. It is only 45minutes from Larnaca international airport and is home to some of the most wonderful beaches in Cyprus. Have a look at these beaches at http://www.cyprusbeaches.blogspot.com/
Protaras was known for its windmills, hundreds of windmills once stood where Protaras stands today from half a century ago and when you look around you will still see them adding culture to the beautiful areas of Protaras. In recent years the whole area has taken the name Protaras, which now stretches 10kilometers and covers Kapparis, Pernera, Cavo Greco, Green Bay, Ayia Triada and the Golden coast areas as apposed to just the horse shoe shaped bay with sparkling crystal waters, white sand and a natural peculiarities in the coast lines caves and arches eroded by the waves.
The tourist area of Protaras is one of the nicest areas that Cyprus is proud to have. One of the most famous beaches is "Fig tree bay" home to fig trees and also 100meters from the beach stands the small island.
The first hotels and tourist apartments first began around 1977 and have continued to grow over the years, with many private villas and rental companies, bars are restaurants. In recent years the area has been re-done and a one way system added and the area cobbled and paved with water fountains staggered throughout the street.
Along the Protaras beaches many amenities have developed to assist the tourists that flock to Cyprus each season, particularly between May and November. Water sports, including paragliding, fly fish, donuts, jet skis, banana boats and pedalos are available as well as numerous boat trips and private yacht hiring as well. Yianna marie beach in Protaras, has a small cafeteria restaurant always full with local people, you will see tavli boards which are like backgammon being played. There are various hotel pool bars scattered along the beach line where you can pop in for the odd refreshing drink. Plus the beaches have been awarded the blue flag award.
In the main street of Protaras, you will see many bars with a variety of music and entertainment, The greenery is open all year round and Zodiac is a family run bar with Karaoke and is ideal for families, try the Jumbo cocktail as well, ask for a kids one for the children and see their eyes sparkle with amazement!!! Bells across the road has Elvis, with his own car for an extra ordinary arrival. Further along the road there is Ghetto, playing a mixture of musics, mainly RnB but always a party atmosphere. Plus there is fools and horses... playing fools and horses in the day time, but the food there is good too.
For restaurants, Olympus is definitely recommend, with traditional food cooked outside traditionally, but they also serve other foods as well. A family restaurant with a good atmosphere. For different types of foods you should try Eden Square, where a mixture of foods is available.
Also available in Protaras, are many travel agents offering daily trips and excursions around Cyprus and abroad and car hire companies. If you return year on year to Cyprus, you could rent a villa in Protaras with Spot On Villa rentals Cyprus and they can arrange car hire for you to visit some of the other areas of Cyprus and really get a feel for the Cyprus lifestyle.
Dont forget when you are here to visit the surrounding villages:
- Xylofagou
- Ayia Napa
- Pernera
- Paralimni
- Vrysoulless
- Freneros
- Larnaca
- Limasol
- Paphos
- Troodos mountains
See also my blog on the history of Ayia Napa. http://aboutprotaras.blogspot.com/2008/01/history-about-ayia-napa.html
and check out the blue flag beaches in Protaras http://cyprusbeaches.blogspot.com/
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