I hope “Yule” find these top ten tips really “Yulesful” (ha ha) As far as I am concerned, Christmas isn’t Christmas without a real tree. From going to the forest and choosing it, to bringing it home and lovingly decorating it. But how do keep your tree in tip-top condition and get it to last the festive period? Here are my top ten tips:
1. First and foremost, pick a really bushy tree that doesn’t drop its needles, ideally a fir. Although they cost a bit more, they are worth it. If you can find one with a rootball, so much the better, as this will last longer.
2. Trim your trunk! Freshly cut Christmas trees need to drink straight away, so chop off an inch or two and put the tree in a bucket of water overnight before decorating. Contrary to popular belief, drilling a hole in the bottom of the tree trunk does not mean it will take water up any quicker, so don’t bother.
3. Put your tree in a suitable container, making sure it stands firm. Christmas trees easily topple over when laden with decorations – I speak from first hand experience!
4. Make sure you can water your tree easily and remember to top it up every day because it will dry out quickly. Start off with at least a gallon of water – Christmas trees are very thirsty.
5. Did you know it is beneficial to add some sugar to the water? But don’t do what flower arrangers do and add some aspirin – save that for a hangover.
6. Although it may be tempting, don’t put your fresh tree in soil or sand. This might seem a sensible thing to do, but it actually blocks the pores in the tree bark and will prevent it from drinking.
7. Don’t put your tree too close to any heating, for example a radiator or an open fire. This will make it dry out even quicker – and can be a fire hazard too.
8. Although it might be tempting as this is an easy option, don’t buy a Christmas tree that has already been set in a block of wood as the tree can’t drink. It will drop its needles and die very quickly.
9. Turn the tree lights off at night.
10. And finally, when the New Year comes, be environmentally friendly and recycle your tree for mulch.
In Cyprus, the Forestry Commission has trees on sale at all the stations around the island. They are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 2pm up until 22 December. Pine trees, two to three metres are either eight or ten euros. Fir trees - which are the best – are around 50 euros for one to two metres.
The Paphos station is in Yeroskipou. You can call them on (00 357) 26 30 62 66 for further information.
Oh, and if you are looking for logs for your fire, the Forestry Commission will be able to help you with those too. Sometimes you can even cut your own.
And finally, if you really love trees, why not contact your local municipality in the New Year? There is a service now whereby the municipality staff will give come along to your property, supply and plant a tree for you free of charge. All you have to do is agree to maintain it.
Merry Christmas
Jackie
The Overseas Guides Company
http://www.Cyprusbuyingguide.com
Thursday, 16 December 2010
Wednesday, 8 December 2010
It’s behind you!
Two village idiots were assembling something. One said, “When I nod my head, you hit it." It gets worse. “What did Cinderella say when the Chemist lost her photographs? Someday my prints will come!” You’ve guessed. It’s time to forget your inhibitions, let your hair down and realise that it’s perfectly acceptable to become a five-year old again.
“Oh no it isn’t … oh yes it is!” Okay, okay, enough is enough. I’m sure you realise by now that the traditional pantomime is alive and kicking in Cyprus – and how fabulous that there’s more than one production to see.
You can “boo” and “hiss” to your heart’s delight, no matter what age you are, nobody cares. And in fact, the more you “boo” and “hiss” the more the actors love it - and the better the pantomime becomes. The atmosphere is always electric and it’s fair to say you’ll probably leave utterly exhausted - just as I did last weekend! Ah well, the big kid in all of us has to come out sometimes.
But that’s not the only entertainment available for you in Cyprus at Christmas. It’s endless. There are beautiful shows, gala dinners, special exhibitions, wonderful concerts, fabulous dinner dances – the list goes on. One thing is for sure, you certainly won’t be bored.
At Christmas time, Cyprus is beautifully decorated with striking displays of twinkling lights, Santa, reindeers, elves, sleighs and more. The town and surrounding villages come alive and are very picturesque when darkness falls, offering great opportunities for budding photographers.
Beautiful poinsettias are now in abundance, with most households displaying these outside their front doors. Of course, the weather here makes that possible. Oh, and the roses, I mustn’t forget the roses. They are now all out in full bloom in everyone’s gardens and the scents are quite incredible.
At Christmas, roses here smell like the old-fashioned English versions, and these, combined with jasmines, fill the air with the most amazing fragrances. Because mountain air is so fresh and clean, the scents are stronger than you would ever find in the UK. Fortunately, I live in the mountains, so get to experience this first hand.
While we are talking about scents, there are also those of the oranges, mandarins, clementines, lemons and grapefruits. I go walking in the mountains every day at this time of the year and as I pass by these groves, I often pick a few on the way to take home. Nothing could be fresher, their taste is superb.
The pomegranate trees are currently laden with fruits the size of small footballs. The almond groves are almost harvested now and by the way – freshly picked almonds are delicious. Once you have tasted these straight from the trees, you will never like the packet versions again. Although the almond trees look very dark and sparse now, when they flower again in the spring the sight is spectacular, with seas of pink and white blossom everywhere.
Finally, at this time of the year, temperatures are still between 20 and 25 degrees with beautiful blue skies.
It’s no wonder Christmas shopping hasn’t really started!
See you next week
Jackie
The Overseas Guides Company
http://www.Cyprusbuyingguide.com
“Oh no it isn’t … oh yes it is!” Okay, okay, enough is enough. I’m sure you realise by now that the traditional pantomime is alive and kicking in Cyprus – and how fabulous that there’s more than one production to see.
You can “boo” and “hiss” to your heart’s delight, no matter what age you are, nobody cares. And in fact, the more you “boo” and “hiss” the more the actors love it - and the better the pantomime becomes. The atmosphere is always electric and it’s fair to say you’ll probably leave utterly exhausted - just as I did last weekend! Ah well, the big kid in all of us has to come out sometimes.
But that’s not the only entertainment available for you in Cyprus at Christmas. It’s endless. There are beautiful shows, gala dinners, special exhibitions, wonderful concerts, fabulous dinner dances – the list goes on. One thing is for sure, you certainly won’t be bored.
At Christmas time, Cyprus is beautifully decorated with striking displays of twinkling lights, Santa, reindeers, elves, sleighs and more. The town and surrounding villages come alive and are very picturesque when darkness falls, offering great opportunities for budding photographers.
Beautiful poinsettias are now in abundance, with most households displaying these outside their front doors. Of course, the weather here makes that possible. Oh, and the roses, I mustn’t forget the roses. They are now all out in full bloom in everyone’s gardens and the scents are quite incredible.
At Christmas, roses here smell like the old-fashioned English versions, and these, combined with jasmines, fill the air with the most amazing fragrances. Because mountain air is so fresh and clean, the scents are stronger than you would ever find in the UK. Fortunately, I live in the mountains, so get to experience this first hand.
While we are talking about scents, there are also those of the oranges, mandarins, clementines, lemons and grapefruits. I go walking in the mountains every day at this time of the year and as I pass by these groves, I often pick a few on the way to take home. Nothing could be fresher, their taste is superb.
The pomegranate trees are currently laden with fruits the size of small footballs. The almond groves are almost harvested now and by the way – freshly picked almonds are delicious. Once you have tasted these straight from the trees, you will never like the packet versions again. Although the almond trees look very dark and sparse now, when they flower again in the spring the sight is spectacular, with seas of pink and white blossom everywhere.
Finally, at this time of the year, temperatures are still between 20 and 25 degrees with beautiful blue skies.
It’s no wonder Christmas shopping hasn’t really started!
See you next week
Jackie
The Overseas Guides Company
http://www.Cyprusbuyingguide.com
Thursday, 2 December 2010
An Ex-Pat View of Christmas in Cyprus
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
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
Thursday, 25 November 2010
Thinking about renovating a property in Cyprus?
Wellington boots on in August and almost falling down an open man-hole wasn’t much fun. But when your drains are completely blocked and not exactly smelling like a bunch of roses, what do you do? Smear your nose in vapour rub, roll up your sleeves and just get stuck in!
Yes, that’s just one of the joys of renovating in Cyprus - and I can speak from first-hand experience. Renovating an old property is certainly a challenge, but really worth it in the end. If you buy at the right price and do an excellent job, you won’t have any problem finding a buyer. And boy, are there some bargains to be snapped up at the moment!
Where do you start though? Once you have bought your property, getting to know good tradesmen is a first - that’s always difficult wherever you live in the world. There are good and there are bad, so word of mouth is almost always the best route. Speak to your friends, neighbours and get advice from Expat forums.
When we renovated our villa, we did most of the work ourselves, but sometimes you do need to bring in an expert. Just make sure you know what you are paying for and remember; working days for tradesmen are usually shorter here so the job will take longer.
Top Tip: Keep all your official receipts for the project – every single one, even if it is for a packet of nails. You will need to offset these against your Capital Gains tax when you eventually sell the property. Make sure they are receipts, as estimates and quotations are not accepted by the tax office. A good lawyer should tell you this when you are thinking about purchasing a project.
How about building materials? Well, these are cheaper in Cyprus, but it depends what you are buying. You can get top of the range, or cheap and cheerful, it’s up to you.
There are plenty of builders’ merchants and most of them speak good English. Once they know you, you can open an account and then you will get the materials you need at a discount. You will find that the prices will start to fall after a while and you will get close to what they would charge a local. It takes a while to get “local” prices in Cyprus.
When your building materials are delivered, they often won’t unload the vehicle for you, it all depends on the driver. Bear that in mind, as you might need an extra hand on the day. I can remember once taking delivery of a large amount of roof tiles and the driver just sat there. He soon realised I was on my own at the time and reluctantly helped. I think it was more because he could see he would be there all night if he didn’t.
Solar panels are very cheap in Cyprus, around 175 euros each depending on the quality and well worth the money. They heat all your hot water FREE and you can even install a couple to heat your pool to extend usage during the winter.
The more panels you have, the more hot water you get - so the less your electricity bill will be. Some people use solar panels to run their heating systems too (yes, you do need heating in Cyprus in the winter).
If you need tools, all the well-known brands are here. But if only want something for a one-off job then the cheap and cheerful goods will probably suffice. There are some specialist tool shops that have very good service and repair workshops too. Hiring tools and equipment is becoming easier.
Patience is a virtue when renovating a property in Cyprus - but when your dream home is finally finished, it’s a wonderful achievement!
Best wishes
Jackie
The Overseas Guides Company
http://www.cyprusbuyingguide.com
Yes, that’s just one of the joys of renovating in Cyprus - and I can speak from first-hand experience. Renovating an old property is certainly a challenge, but really worth it in the end. If you buy at the right price and do an excellent job, you won’t have any problem finding a buyer. And boy, are there some bargains to be snapped up at the moment!
Where do you start though? Once you have bought your property, getting to know good tradesmen is a first - that’s always difficult wherever you live in the world. There are good and there are bad, so word of mouth is almost always the best route. Speak to your friends, neighbours and get advice from Expat forums.
When we renovated our villa, we did most of the work ourselves, but sometimes you do need to bring in an expert. Just make sure you know what you are paying for and remember; working days for tradesmen are usually shorter here so the job will take longer.
Top Tip: Keep all your official receipts for the project – every single one, even if it is for a packet of nails. You will need to offset these against your Capital Gains tax when you eventually sell the property. Make sure they are receipts, as estimates and quotations are not accepted by the tax office. A good lawyer should tell you this when you are thinking about purchasing a project.
How about building materials? Well, these are cheaper in Cyprus, but it depends what you are buying. You can get top of the range, or cheap and cheerful, it’s up to you.
There are plenty of builders’ merchants and most of them speak good English. Once they know you, you can open an account and then you will get the materials you need at a discount. You will find that the prices will start to fall after a while and you will get close to what they would charge a local. It takes a while to get “local” prices in Cyprus.
When your building materials are delivered, they often won’t unload the vehicle for you, it all depends on the driver. Bear that in mind, as you might need an extra hand on the day. I can remember once taking delivery of a large amount of roof tiles and the driver just sat there. He soon realised I was on my own at the time and reluctantly helped. I think it was more because he could see he would be there all night if he didn’t.
Solar panels are very cheap in Cyprus, around 175 euros each depending on the quality and well worth the money. They heat all your hot water FREE and you can even install a couple to heat your pool to extend usage during the winter.
The more panels you have, the more hot water you get - so the less your electricity bill will be. Some people use solar panels to run their heating systems too (yes, you do need heating in Cyprus in the winter).
If you need tools, all the well-known brands are here. But if only want something for a one-off job then the cheap and cheerful goods will probably suffice. There are some specialist tool shops that have very good service and repair workshops too. Hiring tools and equipment is becoming easier.
Patience is a virtue when renovating a property in Cyprus - but when your dream home is finally finished, it’s a wonderful achievement!
Best wishes
Jackie
The Overseas Guides Company
http://www.cyprusbuyingguide.com
Wednesday, 17 November 2010
Thinking of renting in Cyprus?
With Christmas and the New Year looming, it may be the time to reflect about what you really want from life. With the weather at its worst in the UK, why not consider renting a property in Cyprus? To help you, here are my top five tips:
1. Location
Where do you want to live? Think about this one carefully. If you don’t know Cyprus, then do plenty of research.
Do you want to be in a traditional Cypriot village; or in the mountains with spectacular views; or by the sea and beautiful beaches? Perhaps you would prefer to be within walking distance of local amenities, such as supermarkets, banks and other facilities? You may need to be near a hospital for medical reasons.
A key point is to decide whether you want to live within an ex-pat area, or with the locals.
Top Tip: If you have never lived overseas before, then pick an area where other ex-pats are because when you first arrive, you will need a support group around you. This is what I did. But once I was familiar with everything, I moved into a traditional Cypriot village with very few ex-pats.
2. Property type
What do you really want? Are you looking for a detached villa with a pool; a townhouse; a bungalow; a penthouse apartment; a traditional stone house or a luxury mansion? The list is endless; there is something for everyone and every budget in Cyprus. Think carefully about whether the property is just for you, or whether you are going to have a lot of visitors to entertain. This will help you decide how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need.
Top Tip: Remember, swimming pools are a luxury and quite expensive to run - but I wouldn’t be without mine in the summer.
3. Rent
Negotiate hard! There are an abundance of properties up for rent in Cyprus both privately and via letting agencies. Unfortunately, some landlords are very greedy and are asking extortionate prices. If a property is up for rent for 700 euros a month, then start at 450 euros. You can always increase your offer.
Top Tip: Never pay more than one month’s rent plus your holding deposit in advance.
4. Landlords
The good landlords will issue a contract you can understand. The bad landlords will shake hands with you, say you can have the property for as long as you like and then suddenly give you two weeks notice to vacate as they want the property back for their family.
Top Tip: Make sure you get a contract and have this checked by a reputable lawyer who doesn’t know the landlord.
5. Contracts
These can be anything from one month to several years. If you are renting long-term, and signing a contract, make sure you look out for the yearly rent increase clause -otherwise you could be in for a shock and find your rent goes up dramatically. Also watch out for notice periods, ideally they will be two months either side.
Top Tip: Don’t sign for more than six months initially, then you can move if you don’t like the property or the area.
Hope this helps – if you have any questions, just ask!
Jackie
The Overseas Guides Company
Have you been to the main website yet? http://Cyprusbuyingguide.com
1. Location
Where do you want to live? Think about this one carefully. If you don’t know Cyprus, then do plenty of research.
Do you want to be in a traditional Cypriot village; or in the mountains with spectacular views; or by the sea and beautiful beaches? Perhaps you would prefer to be within walking distance of local amenities, such as supermarkets, banks and other facilities? You may need to be near a hospital for medical reasons.
A key point is to decide whether you want to live within an ex-pat area, or with the locals.
Top Tip: If you have never lived overseas before, then pick an area where other ex-pats are because when you first arrive, you will need a support group around you. This is what I did. But once I was familiar with everything, I moved into a traditional Cypriot village with very few ex-pats.
2. Property type
What do you really want? Are you looking for a detached villa with a pool; a townhouse; a bungalow; a penthouse apartment; a traditional stone house or a luxury mansion? The list is endless; there is something for everyone and every budget in Cyprus. Think carefully about whether the property is just for you, or whether you are going to have a lot of visitors to entertain. This will help you decide how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need.
Top Tip: Remember, swimming pools are a luxury and quite expensive to run - but I wouldn’t be without mine in the summer.
3. Rent
Negotiate hard! There are an abundance of properties up for rent in Cyprus both privately and via letting agencies. Unfortunately, some landlords are very greedy and are asking extortionate prices. If a property is up for rent for 700 euros a month, then start at 450 euros. You can always increase your offer.
Top Tip: Never pay more than one month’s rent plus your holding deposit in advance.
4. Landlords
The good landlords will issue a contract you can understand. The bad landlords will shake hands with you, say you can have the property for as long as you like and then suddenly give you two weeks notice to vacate as they want the property back for their family.
Top Tip: Make sure you get a contract and have this checked by a reputable lawyer who doesn’t know the landlord.
5. Contracts
These can be anything from one month to several years. If you are renting long-term, and signing a contract, make sure you look out for the yearly rent increase clause -otherwise you could be in for a shock and find your rent goes up dramatically. Also watch out for notice periods, ideally they will be two months either side.
Top Tip: Don’t sign for more than six months initially, then you can move if you don’t like the property or the area.
Hope this helps – if you have any questions, just ask!
Jackie
The Overseas Guides Company
Have you been to the main website yet? http://Cyprusbuyingguide.com
Wednesday, 10 November 2010
An event I will never forget …
Have you ever seen a drag queen in full flight? I must admit I hadn’t - that is, until Saturday night – I still can’t believe what I saw. Nothing could have prepared me for the performance by “Veevette” (Keith Newman from Gay Pride). It was mindboggling – and utterly fascinating!
LH (lovely hubby) was best man on Saturday at Pauline and Robin’s wedding and to say they picked a cabaret with a difference was an understatement. Glitz, glamour, incredible make-up, unforgettable hair styles, heels as high as the Eiffel Tower, legs to die for and stunning outfits certainly lit up the expats club in Paphos. They’d never seen anything like it - and neither had I! …
The weather was perfect, 27 degrees and not a cloud in the sky. Weddings in Cyprus tend to be at their most popular in April/May/June and September/October/November. The summer months should be avoided as long dresses and temperatures in the high 40’s don’t really mix.
It’s very easy to get married in Cyprus. There are an abundance of wedding co-ordinators all ready and willing to help, you can do-it-yourself over the internet, or you can choose a travel agent who specialises in this area.
You can get married in so many places now, from churches to hotels, by the sea, in the mountains; Cyprus has some wonderfully romantic settings.
Top Tip: Remember though, if you want to get married on Valentine’s Day or at Easter, then you need to book really early.
Traditional Cypriot weddings are attended by thousands. LH and I are attending a Cypriot wedding ourselves next year in Nicosia in May. So far, 3,000 have been invited – yes, three thousand – and that’s only the start.
It is not unheard of for upwards of 5,000 to be in attendance, so you can imagine the size of the venue. And, in true Cypriot tradition, the bride and groom are given small white envelopes instead of gifts.
Why white envelopes? Well, they contain money from the wedding guests. Each guest usually puts around 50 euros in an envelope. I think this is a great idea, because you don’t have to mess around choosing from wedding lists and buying a present. The idea behind the envelopes and giving cash is to make sure the happy couple have a good start in life.
With 5,000 guests it’s not unusual to find the couple have 250,000 euros (wow!) – I think you will agree, that isn’t a bad start, is it? Buys a home, perhaps sets up a business and pays for a wonderful honeymoon.
OK. That’s it from me for now.
Best wishes
Jackie
The Overseas Guides Company
Visit the main website at: http://www.Cyprusbuyingguide.com
LH (lovely hubby) was best man on Saturday at Pauline and Robin’s wedding and to say they picked a cabaret with a difference was an understatement. Glitz, glamour, incredible make-up, unforgettable hair styles, heels as high as the Eiffel Tower, legs to die for and stunning outfits certainly lit up the expats club in Paphos. They’d never seen anything like it - and neither had I! …
The weather was perfect, 27 degrees and not a cloud in the sky. Weddings in Cyprus tend to be at their most popular in April/May/June and September/October/November. The summer months should be avoided as long dresses and temperatures in the high 40’s don’t really mix.
It’s very easy to get married in Cyprus. There are an abundance of wedding co-ordinators all ready and willing to help, you can do-it-yourself over the internet, or you can choose a travel agent who specialises in this area.
You can get married in so many places now, from churches to hotels, by the sea, in the mountains; Cyprus has some wonderfully romantic settings.
Top Tip: Remember though, if you want to get married on Valentine’s Day or at Easter, then you need to book really early.
Traditional Cypriot weddings are attended by thousands. LH and I are attending a Cypriot wedding ourselves next year in Nicosia in May. So far, 3,000 have been invited – yes, three thousand – and that’s only the start.
It is not unheard of for upwards of 5,000 to be in attendance, so you can imagine the size of the venue. And, in true Cypriot tradition, the bride and groom are given small white envelopes instead of gifts.
Why white envelopes? Well, they contain money from the wedding guests. Each guest usually puts around 50 euros in an envelope. I think this is a great idea, because you don’t have to mess around choosing from wedding lists and buying a present. The idea behind the envelopes and giving cash is to make sure the happy couple have a good start in life.
With 5,000 guests it’s not unusual to find the couple have 250,000 euros (wow!) – I think you will agree, that isn’t a bad start, is it? Buys a home, perhaps sets up a business and pays for a wonderful honeymoon.
OK. That’s it from me for now.
Best wishes
Jackie
The Overseas Guides Company
Visit the main website at: http://www.Cyprusbuyingguide.com
Wednesday, 3 November 2010
It was 6am on Sunday morning and I heard loud gun fire outside
On the morning the clocks went back, our usual peace and quiet in the mountains was totally shattered. I shot up in bed wondering what on earth was going on and immediately thought the worst. Half asleep and half awake, I had visions of a blood bath somewhere. But this can’t be happening in Cyprus! Then I realised – groan - it was the start of the shooting season.
After just double checking by looking out of the window to make sure no-one had actually been murdered, I tried to get back to sleep. No chance. When the men over here start shooting in the mountains, they are very excited and shout at the tops of their voices – so this, together with the gun fire means there is no rest for anyone else. The only choice was an early morning rise.
Amongst expats, the shooting season in Cyprus is a bit of a joke. Around 50,000 hunters go “game hunting” (can you believe this) for partridges and hares – and quite honestly, anything else that moves!
And not surprisingly, the result is they often shoot themselves too. The A&E departments of the hospitals are heaving on the first day that the season starts with all manner of accidents caused by guns. One of the most frequent injuries is shooting themselves in the foot. It’s probably best to say no more on that!
When you drive through the stunningly beautiful Akamas peninsula in Paphos, you will see “Game Reserve” signs. You can’t miss them. Each of these signs has been shot at – there are dents all over them or bullet holes right through them. It’s probably due to the lack of “game” around. The hunters get bored, so probably go for the signs instead.
The slight problem is that these signs are on the edge of the tracks, so if you are driving along on a Sunday or a Wednesday, just be aware.
If you are not used to shooting seasons being around you, this may all sound pretty awful - but it’s traditional in Cyprus, perfectly normal and happens year in, year out.
Of course, there are professional gun clubs in Cyprus which are run properly by people who take the sport very seriously and have extremely good safety records.
But unfortunately, not everyone belongs to them. There are still those who are very relaxed about it all, just grab a gun and go for it. Personally, I tend to keep out of the way – just in case!
Well, it’s autumn now. Can you believe it is still 25 degrees today and not a cloud in the sky. We are still eating outside. Without a doubt, it is my favourite time of the year. The pool is now 22 degrees, so a bit chilly to swim in - but the sea is perfect.
How I love this time of the year. Why not come over and experience it for yourself?
Best wishes
Jackie
http://www.CyprusBuyingGuide.com
After just double checking by looking out of the window to make sure no-one had actually been murdered, I tried to get back to sleep. No chance. When the men over here start shooting in the mountains, they are very excited and shout at the tops of their voices – so this, together with the gun fire means there is no rest for anyone else. The only choice was an early morning rise.
Amongst expats, the shooting season in Cyprus is a bit of a joke. Around 50,000 hunters go “game hunting” (can you believe this) for partridges and hares – and quite honestly, anything else that moves!
And not surprisingly, the result is they often shoot themselves too. The A&E departments of the hospitals are heaving on the first day that the season starts with all manner of accidents caused by guns. One of the most frequent injuries is shooting themselves in the foot. It’s probably best to say no more on that!
When you drive through the stunningly beautiful Akamas peninsula in Paphos, you will see “Game Reserve” signs. You can’t miss them. Each of these signs has been shot at – there are dents all over them or bullet holes right through them. It’s probably due to the lack of “game” around. The hunters get bored, so probably go for the signs instead.
The slight problem is that these signs are on the edge of the tracks, so if you are driving along on a Sunday or a Wednesday, just be aware.
If you are not used to shooting seasons being around you, this may all sound pretty awful - but it’s traditional in Cyprus, perfectly normal and happens year in, year out.
Of course, there are professional gun clubs in Cyprus which are run properly by people who take the sport very seriously and have extremely good safety records.
But unfortunately, not everyone belongs to them. There are still those who are very relaxed about it all, just grab a gun and go for it. Personally, I tend to keep out of the way – just in case!
Well, it’s autumn now. Can you believe it is still 25 degrees today and not a cloud in the sky. We are still eating outside. Without a doubt, it is my favourite time of the year. The pool is now 22 degrees, so a bit chilly to swim in - but the sea is perfect.
How I love this time of the year. Why not come over and experience it for yourself?
Best wishes
Jackie
http://www.CyprusBuyingGuide.com
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