Just imagine. You’ve left the grey, cold, wet, windy and freezing days of the UK behind to be in Paphos, where at Christmas time the sun is shining, you still wear shorts and sandals and temperatures are usually around 20 degrees. But what is it really like here at Christmas?
Well, apart from being a very traditional and religious family time, in reality there’s only one word – fabulous!
Let me tell you why. First and foremost, nobody in Paphos is ever by themselves at Christmas, particularly the elderly. Refreshingly, traditional family values apply, and communities are such that not only does everyone know each other, but they also care about each other - and locals do tend to “adopt” ex-pats. So no matter who you are, or where you are, you’ll always be guaranteed an invitation from someone.
A few years ago, anything to do with Christmas in Cyprus was always left until quite late. However, this year for the very first time - shock and horror - Christmas trees were up in a large local supermarket on (can you believe it) 3rd October! Was I really in Cyprus? Was this really happening this early? The answer, unfortunately, was “yes”. I guess it’s a sign of the times.
But despite this early arrival of all things festive, Christmas here is still very much a last minute affair, because - thank goodness - no one takes much notice until far later on. And it’s easy to see why.
We are currently experiencing the hottest November since records began. While I am writing this, it is 27 degrees and there’s not a cloud in the sky. I’m not complaining!
Mind you, searching for presents on Christmas Eve in Cyprus and getting into an absolute panic because you can’t find what you want can be a bit stressful, so perhaps a little forward planning does help.
I think my sister-in-law has the answer. To save any panic, she buys all her Christmas presents, Christmas cards, wrapping paper, birthday cards and birthday presents for the coming year in the January sales. She saves a fortune, sometimes as much as 75%. She then simply stores them away until the appropriate occasion arises. Not a bad strategy when you think about it - particularly in the current economic climate.
Seriously though, when the sudden realisation that Christmas is just a few days away, it does tend to cause chaos. Most people in Cyprus go absolutely crazy when they suddenly realise the deadline is looming. And it can be quite tiring if you are one of the last minute shoppers and have to face the queues that inevitably form.
But the shopping atmosphere here is very different to the UK and as usual, the laid back attitude always comes into play.
So what’s the secret? Do what the locals do. Read a newspaper while you are in the queue waiting with your trolley load of goodies - and just relax. At the same time, get yourself a coffee or just phone your best friend and have a chat.
Eventually you will get to the checkout.
That’s it from me for now.
Best wishes.
Jackie
The Overseas Guides Company
http://www.Cyprusbuyingguide.com
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