November Already
Well, autumn is here, or is it? The weather is a tad unpredictable, to say the least, but November is still one of my favourite months, mostly because that long hot summer is over, maybe? ‘Coz it looks like our prediction that ‘we’re gonna have another Indian Summer this year ‘ is happening, with temperatures expected to hit 29°C this month, so it looks like the fishermen got it right again!
Shorts, ‘n T-shirts
Following more than usual rain and some crazy storms in October, you can already notice the difference: by that I mean, the air is clearer, although it feels cooler; naturally, the sun will be stronger … so, be warned! But by day you’ll still be able to wear shorts and a T-shirt, chill out around the pool, as only the brave will dive in. My preference is to pop down to the beach, coz the sea is still warm, around 23°C, especially in the first half of the month, so you’ll still be able to Top Up the Tan for Christmas … did I just say Christmas? omg!
Chilly Nights
Much as it’s still absolutely gorgeous during the day, once that sun dips below the horizon, almost with a click of your fingers, you’ll probably be reaching for a cosy long-sleeved top. And with the clocks having gone back on Saturday 23rd October, that’s going to be around 4.30 pm by mid-November! I’ve already had to throw a blanket on the bed last week. It won’t be long before it’s time to drag the winter quilt out for a good airing. Ha! Actually, I’ve decided there’s no point waiting … mine’s coming out!
Seasons End
As we wave goodbye to our long, hot summer, the season for exciting exhibitions, fascinating tours and fabulous festivals is well and truly underway. As usual, we’ll also see plenty of end-of-summer closing parties. It’s always a good excuse to clear the shelves, shift the stock and have one last fabulous party! Naturally, that also means we’ll be welcoming a whole host of winter opening parties, and as usual some really cool Christmas markets too! … Did I say Christmas again??
The Legion Run
Now, this isn’t your average race; it’s a full-on challenge! This year, the Legion Run is set for Saturday, 7th November in Paraklishia near Limassol … with over 1,500 entrants so far, both individuals and teams will cover 5 km while enduring some challenging obstacles, and I’ll just give you a quick warning: it’s gonna get dirty, very dirty! … This year, for only the second time, kids aged 4 to 10 will have their own course and challenges. The whole idea is you challenge yourself to the limit! And make sure you help a few people along the way, coz we want everyone to make it to the afterparty!
Winter Break
It’s nice to see there’s still an element of life about. Fig Tree Bay was packed the other day. As always, on Halloween weekend in Napa, it was busy on the ‘T’ at the end of Bar Street. Castle Club, as usual, doubled up their Halloween Night as their end-of-season party. I’m also hearing there’s still loads of people in the UK and many of our fellow EU countries who just want, or should I say ‘need’ to get away, to catch a little bit of autumn sun and dip their toes in the Med … you know it makes sense to come to Cyprus!
Simply The Best
So, as Cyprus boasts the best climate in Europe, not to mention the best swimming waters in Europe for four years on the trot, I’m expecting to see the coastal resorts busier than normal this November, with several bars and restaurants staying open for the winter this year … who said Cyprus is dead in the winter???
Winter Destination
I’ve been living in Cyprus for over 33 years now, and I’ve seen it change loads! I’m absolutely certain we’re looking at ways to enhance our winter season, not just because we boast the best weather in Europe and by Christmas, Cyprus is one of the few places in the world where we can snow ski in the Troodos Mountains in the morning, go Husky Sledging at lunchtime and swim in the Mediterranean Sea in the afternoon … oh, just realised, I said ‘Christmas’ again???
How High
Troodos is wonderful in the autumn; some call it ‘Heaven’, ha! Well, it’s high enough! … so, why not take a drive, or better still, give one of our Safari Companies a call, and you’ll see the real Cyprus, but with an experienced guide to narrate your adventure!
Beaujolais Nouveau
The new, fresh wine will arrive in Cyprus on Thursday, 19th November. I wonder which eatery will be first to pour it into their glasses. My money is on Savino Rock Bar or ‘Chez Fāina Fayrous’, Mediterranean Brasserie, Larnaca. The Queen Vic or The Old Village Tavern, in Napa, O’Niell’s Irish Bar & Grill or Bacchus Restaurant and Cafe, in Paphos, Hmm or Dionysus Mansion Fun & Gourmet, in Limassol … and probably Just Italian, or Karas Fish Taverna in Kapparis.
Wine Tasting
It’s touring season, and one really nice idea is to go Beer or Wine Tasting and of course, it’ll give you an excuse to say “It’s not too early for your first glass” and just in case you’re not in the know, Cyprus boasts some of the world’s finest wines, so you’ll be in for a real treat … oh and, you can now enjoy several Wine Tasting Routes all signposted for you to follow and we’ve got one really good one called ‘Driving you to Drink’ written for What’s On by my very good friend Stanna many years ago and we’ve received loads of compliments about it. I hear Phill from Elite Cyprus Taxi has got a couple of tours he’s created over the years. Hmm, it might be a good idea to stock up for Christmas? … Noooo, I said it again !!!
Nothing to Do?
By now, I imagine you’ve guessed I have a huge passion for this amazing rock, and I’ve been trying to keep you in the know about what’s on for over 33 years, and I’m lovin’ sharing it all with you! So, with lots of Events and Things to Do all over the island, all you have to do is follow What’s On Cyprus on our social media, primarily Facebook, or take a scroll around our website.
76 Categories
Finding something to do couldn’t be easier; all you have to do is choose a City, then one of 16 Major categories, and then one of 60 subcategories, or just try a one-word search. There’s over 2,000 articles and 30,000 photos, videos, and numerous one-touch links to discover! And, if I hear you say ‘there’s nothing to do in the winter’, I’ll put you on the next flight outta here!
Quite Bazaar
I suppose we’re officially heading into the winter season now, which means many of our local bars will gradually turn their attention towards the Cypriot market, while the more tourist-oriented places take a well-deserved four-month breather. But don’t think for one minute that the social scene is going into hibernation! The eating-out scene will continue right through to Christmas, and many local pubs, bars and community centres all over Cyprus will be putting on their popular Bingo Nights, Quiz Nights, Horse Racing Nights and a wonderfully diverse variety of other events! You’ll also find the occasional Car Boot Sales, Christmas Markets, Christmas Bazaars, and well, you name it! Remember, this rock isn’t very big, so you can jump in the car and easily get Out & About. There I said it again … ooouuufff!
Live Music
Many bars and restaurants have live music in the winter months, something to warm your cockles … Leading the way; Savino Live in Larnaca as always with an awesome lineup for the winter, so too O’Neills Irish Bar & Grill in Paphos, Blue Spice Restaurant and Koursaros Bar in Pernera, and Asylum in Napa … and I have to give Karen of the fabulous Kendall Events, a huge shout out for bringing us fabulous tours of Cyprus by world-leading tribute artists … And if you missed Cyprus Rocks Festival last month you’ll find loads of Videos on my YouTube channel
Versatility
I’ve always said that Cyprus is ‘Versatility to The Extreme’, and I reckon November is another perfect opportunity to prove it! So if you fancy a little bird spotting, get in touch with Birdlife Cyprus, as it’s migrating season; they usually organise a Family Birdwatching Day at Athalassa Park in Nicosia. Oh, and the Flamingos have already started landing at The Salt Lakes in Larnaca and Paralimni … And I’m looking forward to getting up to the mountains this winter, might even try out a bit of Husky Sledging over Christmas … Not again??? … OMG, come to think of it, it is nearly Christmas!!!
Cultural Cyprus
A few years back, Paphos hosted the European Capital of Culture, and it’s really nice to see aftershocks from it, all over Cyprus, so keep your eyes peeled or check in Here … It’s Guy Fawkes night on 5th, so if you’re looking for a professional firework display, check out Pyrgos Fireworks website. I’ll imagine there will be a few restaurants and bars that’ll have fireworks on the weekend leading up to and including Thursday the 5th … for a look at more Cultural Events go to the Cyprus Tourist Organisation’s Website … Last year I discovered Atria Music in Nicosia and The Rialto Theatre in Limassol have a busy November with several different music and theatrical performances arranged!
Catch Up
For us Cypriots, November normally offers us a chance to strike up a few BBQs with good friends we haven’t seen for the past 8 months, and the aromas are delightful. Hunting season has started, so expect to see a little game on the BBQ and on the stoves, with authentic restaurants adding seasonal favourites like Woodpigeon, Grouse, Pheasant, and Hare to their menu.
Paradise
It’s been a crazy season for me, to say the least, as many repeat visitors didn’t make it over at the start of the season coz of the flight zone thing, evidently missing their second home, aka Paradise, and remember, November is normally the start of stormy season, and as we only get about 40 days of rain between now and May, I can handle that! … Don’t panic, in Cyprus it rains one day, usually gone the next, so you’ll still get a Fab Tan, or if you’re really unlucky, you’ll have to go get one sprayed on at many of our Hair & Beauty Salons and Spas
Shopping
I’ve tried not to mention it, but I can’t help thinking it’s only 8 weeks ’til Christmas, so I imagine you’ll all be starting to do your Christmas shopping soon … It’s as easy as 123 … Just choose a city, go shopping and choose one of 16 subcategories … oh and if your Greek is a bit rusty, check out our Learn the Local Lingo lesson … Shop ’til You Drop … and remember, there’s no such thing as too early when it comes to finding that perfect present! Well, perhaps there is!
You tell us …
We love to receive your ideas, events, comments, and stories, so please keep them coming … and if you get anything from this guide of places I’ve tried and tested and can confidently highly recommend, please say hi to the boss from me, and if you think your business has something to shout about, or you’re putting on an event, if you tell us, we’ll tell them! Over 22,500 of them!
Easy Search
It’s so easy to check who’s open, what to do, where to go, and What’s On … all you have to do is choose a city, choose one of the 16 main categories, then one of the 60 subcategories, or just try a one-word search … and you’re two or three clicks away from a phone number, a map and More …
Finally
I’d just like to give a big shout-out to all our members who help make this Network Guide possible, and over 22,500 of you who follow us on Facebook and other social media! Thanks especially to those of you who came up to say hi to me this year. Your compliments were priceless, and I hope you’ll invite a friend or two to follow us …
And really, finally,
If I can give you just one tip for November … Make sure you do at least one thing you’ve never done before!!! … and next month, I might even mention Christmas 😉
Na dah bou’men
Tony Dynamou
Editor
