Inspired Escapes

Monastery of Chrysorrogiatissa where silence can be heard

Petros Mavros — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:20:00 GMT

Escaping for the heat of the coast I drove to Panayia, 30 minutes drive from Pafos town I found myself in the tranquility of the Pafos Forest having a cold lemonade under the shade of the pine tree outside the Chrysorroyiatisa Monastery.

Built on the 12th century A.D in the Paphos forest, the spectacular Monastery of Chrysorrogiatissa revived its name by a dedication to Virgin Mary as “Our Lady of the Golden Pomegranate”.
The Monastery is located 40 km from Paphos in Panagia village. The monks, always kind and hospitable ready to offer Cypriot coffee to the visitors, welcome you with a smile and stand by to explain the history behind the icons and frescoes. As vine harvest is approaching, the Monastery is set to commence its wine making, producing one of the finest and oldest wines.

On the 15th August every year, an impressive religious ceremony is celebrated whereas traditional “panigiri” feast is taking place with local people selling habitual goods such as the locally made soutzoukos, and time goes by calmly on this peaceful part of Paphos...

I would like to thank my friend Paco Rivero for provoking this visit to the area, sometimes things are much closer than we think they are but we forget them .

Visiting Cyprus this summer, impressions of travel to the eastern Mediterranean

Patrickdh — Mon, 24 May 2010 11:21:00 GMT

You can almost envision the froth from which Aphrodite , the Goddess of love, majestically arose to the surface riding on a sea shell. Aphrodite's calling may not be your most convincing argument to Visit Cyprus, surely there may be more than one argument that can do it for you. Here below we have made out a list of 5 impressions that may help you in choosing Cyprus as a destination of choice for your next travel to the Mediterranean:

1. Hospitality - As in most destinations, once you escape commercial circuits - you will discover that honest and warm hospitality in Cyprus does make a difference. Since Cyprus is an Island, you may not have to travel far and the inland routes visiting monasteries or wineries is a great excuse to mingle with and enjoy local taste. It won't be occasions that you will be missing, Cyprus hospitality is part of Cultural expression and experience, how else could have a country attracted so many civilizations and still come out in modern times as an independent state.

2.Natural Variety - be it beaches, pleasant scenery, biosphere reserves or heritage - this you will find with a flavor that defines eastern Mediterranean territorial wealth. Marine life and biosphere reserves still exist to give us an idea of what it meant to be the greenest of Islands in the Mediterranean in antiquity. Some of the best regions testimonial to this are in Platres, at the heart of the Troodos Mountain range, the Akamas Peninsula near Pafos and the wonderful beaches of Ayia Napa and Protaras for bathing and sailing. That which will definitely surprise you is that Troodos in the winter, is a place for snow and skiing. If all this activity is too much for you and what you are in for is a well deserved escape with 100% pampering, you will be in good hands at any of the full service resorts which have been servicing a cosmopolitan clientèle for the last 30 years.

3.Cultural Heritage - Cyprus has been on cultural migratory routes for the last 10.000 years. Evolving with most influential civilizations, Greek, Venetians, Byzantine, even under occupation, Cyprus culture was to achieve cultural tolerance in its time. So expect richness in architecture, art, mosaics, archeological findings, faith based heritage dating back to the 3rd Century BC and where the villages throughout Cyprus but especially in Troodos, are home to UNESCO world heritage with painted churches and rich iconography art. In modern times, Cyprus inherited British style for driving, administration, education...a touch organization with the right mix of Mediterranean improvisation that will ensure your tranquility and ease of mind.

4.Cypriot Taste - food with local flavor exists in 2 forms just as in the rest of the world, slow food and fast food. Your typical fast food is a Slouvaki and your slow equivalent is having Mezedes. A Mezze is the most social event at the table you can experience; where all types of salads, meats and fish 'appetizers' are shared across the table. Whereas Souvlaki are individual portions of charcoaled cooked meat in Pitta bread, you will find it very appreciative to accompany a quick lunch or dinner with a Keo or Carlsberg as local brews. Local wines have tremendously evolved as well with lots of labels to meet your palate's desire. Either way, you will want to end the meal with a typical Mesopotamian Coffee and if you are lucky, you may even have a look into your future from the coffee deposit in your cup.

5. Festive Cyprus - If it's for celebrating 4,000 years of wine-making, at the Lemesos Wine festival in August, the Kataklysmos Water festival in Spring, or the local fest in your neighboring village, Festivals are great occasion for blending to experience the warmth of local expression and rhythm. Cyprus is also especially well known for its brilliant nightlife, with numerous occasion for enjoying distractions from beach parties to different bars, restaurants and nightclubs - all in all Cyprus attractions are evolving with the times and taste of travelers today, thus meeting the needs for great golfing, yachting, bird watching, diving, extreme sports like kitesurfing, or more family entertainment around waterparks or donkey rides.

By now you surely may have some hints at to how you will be mesmerized by the rich experiences to be lived on the Island of Cyprus bathed by the Mediterranean. So why not make it to Cyprus this summer? As you know, summers in Cyprus are as they should be - they come early and are long lasting. The time is right - feel welcome.

Credit: Published in visit cyprus this summer

Cyprus Agrotourism could make the difference in your trip

Petros Mavros — Mon, 17 May 2010 19:34:00 GMT

While Cyprus is living its worst crisis in tourism since 1974, the Cyprus Agrotourism sector is giving its own battle of getting a piece of the pie. The remarkable Cypriot landscape and the semi-abandoned villages of Cypriot countryside revive Cyprus as once used to be.

Villages like Kalopanayiotis and Kakopetria hidden in Troodos Mountains, or Nikokleia in the Diarizos laying valley have a new tourist product to offer. In places like that the visitor, being him local or foreigner can enjoy the real Cypriot hospitality that in the last years was covered by all inclusive habits. There, the hotels are of millions of stars, you just have to look the sky while you enjoy a glass of the oldest wine of the world (Commandaria) and feel like a millionaire even if we in times of deep crisis.

Small cottages and rural houses are at your service this summer when you visit Cyprus. I would recommend that you make your booking a bit in advance by contacting Evie at the Cyprus Agrotourism Company.

Visit Cyprus this summer with Jose Carreras

Petros Mavros — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 15:24:00 GMT

Are you going to be in Cyprus this summer? If you did not plan your holidays yet you are still on time to make it.

On June the 9th in Limassol you have the opportunity to attend a fabulous concert of the Catalan Tenor Jose Carreras. Jose Carreras and the symphonic orchestra of Cyprus directed by Miguel Ortega will travel us in the Mediterranean through their music.

Mediterranean Passion, Mediterranean weather and Mediterranean people, all in one the night of the 9th of June in Limassol – Cyprus.

Join our group of enthusiasts on Facebook Cyprus this summer; or manage reserving your entrance online here: Book your entrance online here.

Pure Character - Kolokasi and Cyprus local charm

Patrickdh — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 15:33:00 GMT

Kolokasi - it's Pure fibre.

Otherwise known as Taro and often confounded with Jerusalem artichokes - thin ones are good for frying and bigger ones can be oven cooked with meats. Apparently, Kolokasi was brought to Cyprus by the Romans who would cook it in sauce of pepper, cumin, rue, vinegar, oil ...but in modern times only the exclusive restaurants made popular by celebrity chefs seem to get it. Just the usual trick of finding some ingredient with character and giving it the appeal twist so that a specialty once savored can become popular again and loved by upcoming generations without patriotic guilt. During our last visit at the Nicosia outdoor market, we had a the joy of mingling with locals and the characteristic varieties of fruit and vegetables.

Update: European Day for Produce

To transmit and diffuse among young consumers different ways to enjoy fruits and vegetables - motivating new ways of consuming and preparing foods that is readily available and fresh. European Day of Natural Produce - 3rd of June 2010 - check out events rallying the event- Eurotoques in spain

Renewal for inland tourism and suggestive offers at Tsikas in Tala Pafos

Patrickdh — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 08:35:00 GMT

Stephanie village may be known for rejuvenating the region of Tala and the inland of Pafos. These new proposals offers not only new residential alternatives but also the presence of new service offers that can fit it very well with new options for excursions and dining opportunities on Sundays. Take a stroll about the village and also dine in modern installations with wonderful of choices. These and other initiatives will enable to preserve character of landmarks, despite a change in landscape with urban comforts. Edited from savesavour blog

Gusto for meat in a wine and coriander sauce

Patrickdh — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:58:00 GMT

save&savor's posterous - traveling by food, fresh ideas and tips in the summer

while eating in Cyprus, you may need the time, as you must digest as you eat. It is not unusual to find these plates as a second course - pork and and potatoes in a wine and coriander sauce, with wrapped grape leaves and onions, and a tomato and cucumber with fresh coriander salad. One must go for typical Mezedes.

Pomos Revival - Celebrating 10 years of Jazz in Cyprus

Patrickdh — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 15:13:00 GMT

Of the few destinations that maintain their connection from the medieval and all the way from antiquity. "Pomo", "Pwmos", "Vmos" - Pomos, probably exists due to a famous altar in the temple in the honor of goddess Venus.

Today, the region rich in archaeological culture renders homage to a different art, the music of Jazz. In its 10 years going, the Paradise Jazz Festival at Pomos enters maturity and this year will pay tribute to the Jazz as its played and experienced in Cyprus. - Its time for Jazz and this summer its back to Paradise Place starting on 18th of July to build up momentum up for the main festival during the long week-end of 24th, 25th and 26th of August which closes then on 1st of August with a double performance. There will be time enough for musical enjoyment and celebrations, proof to believe that the festival will go on for another 10 years!! Visit Pomos, Experience Paradise Jazz this summer.

Some dates to remember:

18th July - Trio Smiles
24th July - Savvas Houvartas
25th July - Gojam Group & Takoushis/Karapatakis quartet
26th July - MeetingPoint Jazz Quartet
1st August - Point to Performances & European Trio and Jan Kus

The Water Festival arrives in Limassol as well

Petros Mavros — Mon, 25 May 2009 09:23:00 GMT

Water Festival - Kataklysmos is a feast celebrated in Cyprus for at least 1000 years according to archaeological findings. The word Kataklysmos refers to the biblical flood by which God destroyed all living creatures on earth. It is celebrated on all coastal towns of Cyprus and lasts for 3 days, (Saturday, Sunday, Monday). This year the feast takes place from 6th of June until 8th of June.

The town of Limassol has planned an extensive program to cover this traditional feast. The official program begins on Sunday 7th June at 19.30 p.m. with children’s dancing group performing Greek folkloric dances followed by Traditional Cypriot Dances and Folk Poets and songs. At 9.00 p.m. a musical band will perform beautiful folk songs originated in Cyprus, Greek islands and Minor Asia. On Monday 8th June at 8.00 p.m. the program continues with folk dances and songs performed by the famous actress and singer Olga Potamitou and at 8.45 p.m. the very popular (Please visit the site to view this media) with his band will perform live. There is no entrance fee for any of the events.

Plan a visit to the cosmopolitan town of Limassol and entertain yourself with the unique rhythms of this traditional program. It is a great opportunity to Escape to Limassol.

Visit Agia Napa’s Ancient Necropolis

Petros Mavros — Wed, 20 May 2009 07:58:00 GMT

Ayia Napa is not only sun, sea and fun. There are monuments which date centuries back. One of those is the tombs found in Macronissos, located west of Ayia Napa.

The Department of Antiquities completed excavations in this area which was the target of illegal digging since 1872. A total of nineteen tombs have been found so far and a small sanctuary was investigated to the east of the burial grounds while part of the ancient quarry adjacent to the cemetery had also been revealed. The tombs were used during the Hellenistic and Roman period while the sanctuary dates back to the Cypriot-Classical and Hellenistic period.

Take a ride and visit the tombs and find out the history of the island at a glance.

8500 years of History under one roof

Petros Mavros — Tue, 19 May 2009 07:56:00 GMT

If you plan a visit to Nicosia do not miss the opportunity and visit the Archaeological Museum.

The museum was established to collect, study and display archaeological artefacts from all over the island. Some of the exhibits are as old as 8,500 years. The museum is arranged in chronological order and contains exhibits from Neolithic period, Chalcolithic period, Hellenic period, Roman period and many more.

It is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm and on Sundays from 10am to 1pm. So, even if you visit Nicosia during weekends there is a chance to visit the museum that embraces the whole history of the island.

The museum is located in the heart of the city and is the perfect place to visit after a nice morning walk in the old town, especially those hours of heat.

Join Nicosia online and discover the city.

Larnaca brings the camels back to Cyprus

Petros Mavros — Tue, 19 May 2009 07:25:00 GMT

The Camel used to be a very common means of transport in Cyprus in the 19th century. Slowly it was abanoned and probably the last camels were seen in Cyprus in the early sixties, only the our fathers grandfathers have some memory of the existance of the camels. Now the camel park revives this old tradition.

Plan a visit to the camel park in Mazotos area near Larnaca and you will be amazed by the spectacular theme. Enjoy a camel caravan and a ride through the surrounding countryside of Mazotos or just relax around the pool area and have a refreshing drink. For the young visitors, an outdoor and an indoor playground area with bouncy castle, swings etc. is available.

Taste the local hospitality and a variety of traditional dishes including children’s menu in a beautifully decorated restaurant. Spend a fun day for all the family and get to know the exotic world of camels in a friendly and pleasant environment.

Join the Larnaca routes and choose where to stay.

Μικρές αποδράσεις – Μεγάλες εμπειρίες

Petros Mavros — Wed, 13 May 2009 08:01:00 GMT

Γνωρίστε μικρά γραφικά χωριά, αρχαιολογικά αξιοθέατα, μουσεία, εκκλησίες ή απλά απολαύστε την ομορφιά της φύσης περιδιαβαίνοντας στα υπέροχα μονοπάτια. Απολαύστε ένα Σαββατοκύριακο μακριά από την ρουτίνα και το άγχος. Ανακαλύψτε την Κύπρο μέσα από τα μάτια του απλού επισκέπτη και νιώστε την μαγεία που ταξιδεύει και συνεπαίρνει σε προορισμούς φανταστικούς.

Τα πακέτα είναι προσαρμοσμένα για όλες τις πόλεις της Κύπρου και περιλαμβάνουν διαμονή σε επιλεγμένα ξενοδοχεία τριών, τεσσάρων και πέντε αστέρων σε δίκλινο δωμάτιο. Στα ξενοδοχεία προσφέρεται δείπνο και πρωινό την επόμενη ημέρα. Στα ίδια πακέτα προσφέρονται θεματικές εκδρομές με συνοδεία ξεναγού του ΚΟΤ καθώς και γεύμα σε γραφικά εστιατόρια που λαμβάνουν μέρος στα πακέτα.
Ελάτε και δείτε τι ετοίμασε ο ΚΟΤ για σας.

Stay in Troodos

Petros Mavros — Tue, 12 May 2009 08:41:00 GMT

Discover the green side of paradise and spend a weekend in one of the hotels of the mountain resorts.

The New Helvetia Hotel and the Mill hotel, both share the heart of the picturesque villages of Troodos. Platres and Kakopetria are two locations that deliver on the promise for a stay to remember.The impeccable service and facilities provided by the hotels and the local friendly staff along with the green scenery guarantee an amazing weekend.

Organise a trip to the mountain resorts and escape from the daily routine. If you need some time to relax, the mountains are the perfect place for quietness, harmony and inner tranquility.

Join the special escapes program and enjoy the forest.

Lefkara where time isn't a bother

Petros Mavros — Mon, 11 May 2009 07:38:00 GMT

A picturesque village called Lefkara is located only half an hour from Larnaca town and Limassol town.

Lefkara is famous for its artistic creations of handmade lace and silverware all created by the inhabitants of the village since the years of the Venetians in Cyprus. The well-known “Lefkaritika” embroideries are found in the small restored traditional shops of the village as well as all over Cyprus. The art of silverware is still blooming today offering charming creations of silver.

As you stroll around this beautiful village, have lunch in one of the charming tavernas offering a wide selection of local specialities and get the chance to try the traditional dish of the village called “lefkaritiko Ttava”.
The dry climate, the hospitable people, the surrounding landscape and the beautiful embroideries and silverware are only few of the reasons that this village attracts thousands of people. To fully appreciate the rare beauty and feel the magic of this village, take an excursion and spend a day in the nature.

Visit Lefkara by joining the Larnaca routes