What's On Cyprus

It's getting busier down here these days, with such a choice of cuisines and ambience,  many non residents are taking advantage of such a wonderful setting with a delightful backdrop and you don't have to make your mind up which one of them you'll visit first!

I've known the infamous consultant chef Louis Papageorgiou since he opened Di Capilla Seaside Stories in 2005.  It was my absolute pleasure to interview him, without a doubt one of Cyprus' finest chefs, this guy is seriously on another level.  These days, he's writing a new chapter, purely by accident, in 2010 he met and partnered up with Savvas, a master of hospitality, whom I've known since his Napa days in 1993 ... and together they started a new story ...

They'll turn up, on time, every time, and cook you everything from breakfast or brunch to a three-course a'la carte meal, in your kitchen or the venue of your choice, even if you want it served around your complex pool or on the beach.

The resort is in the ever-popular coastal area of Pernera, in Protaras.  This long-established family-run destination has become far more than just a restaurant.  It’s a complete holiday experience, blending authentic Cypriot hospitality, beachfront dining, stylish villas and apartments, and one of the most relaxing pool bar settings in the area, all intermingled into one and 'Open to the Public', with a small charge for sunbeds and umbrellas on the spacious lush green lawn!

Raphaelle continued, "We are privileged to be able to offer our couples the opportunity to host a truly unforgettable seaside wedding ceremony in collaboration with Paralimni Municipality on the stunning 'Poseidon Deck', immediately in front of the restaurant.  So the wedding couple can exchange their vows, on this stunning coastline, just a few metres from the sea" ... she added, "then you can continue your day with an intimate, beautifully hosted dining experience, making memories that'll last forever!"

It's a picturesque setting, with the restaurant literally on the riverbank, overlooking the fishing shelter, on the estuary of the Liopetri River aka 'Potamos', with stunning views stretching all the way to Cape Greko.  Inside, traditional, comfortable seating, fresh fish fridges, old photos on walls, and outside on the terrace with decking, where their two fishing boats are docked, seating for around 150 diners, lined with umbrellas for a little shade, and with the sea just a few metres away. you couldn't find a more perfect setting to eat fish!  btw, Haris and Margaritas' grandfather Nicolas opened this delightful beachside location in Potamos 50 years ago, so all the local fishermen could enjoy their days' catch, and btw, they still do.

I was recently invited by Captain Panayiotis to embark on what turned out to be an unforgettable journey on the St. Georgios Boat Cruise in Protaras offering a breath taking canvas of turquoise waters, idyllic bays, and golden sands.  Amidst this scenic beauty, one experience stands out as a must-do for visitors seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure a chance to swim with the sea turtles at Green Bay which I will never forget!

There are loads of beach bars in Cyprus, and then there’s Nissi Bay Beach Bar … it's the kind of place that instantly reminds you why Ayia Napa became one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic summer destinations back in the early 90’s.  Sitting directly opposite the Nissi, aka the island, on the white sands of Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa, this legendary hotspot blends tropical beach-club energy with unmistakable Cypriot summer madness.  And honestly, the moment I first stepped onto the sand with a cocktail in my hand and the bassline from the DJ booth rolling across the bay, I understood exactly why this place is so unique.

I am delighted to introduce you to The Lordos Group of Hotels as I've worked closely with their 3 hotels and indeed the Lordos family since 1993.  They are without a doubt one of Cyprus' leading companies and their 3 hotels certainly excel when it comes to location, comfort, and hospitality.  Each hotel with its own specific features, each hotel unique in its own way, all ideally situated in perfect locations, pretty much, right on the beach!

Recently, Koulla invited me to try their fish platter on their weekly Cyprus Night with a traditional Cypriot dance group ... I'm so glad I went there hungry because the fish platter was big ... Their Greek dancing just awesome, traditional, right down to the famous glass tower dance, this guy is amazing, and when they get everyone up to join in its totally unique because of this perfect location, outside, with the little church as a backdrop and all of harbour approach is your dance floor with many passer-byes stopping to see what's on ... brilliant! btw it every Wednesday night, regulations permitting