Towers Magazine, issue 2, spring-summer2019

Towers

THE OLYMPIC RESIDENCE’S EXCLUSIVE MAGAZINE

LIVING

beautifully

RAMONA FILIP

ISSN 2547-9075 (PRINT) - ISSN 2547-9083 (ONLINE)

ISSUE 2 SPRING/SUMMER 2019

AIKON DATE 42MM AI6008-SS002-430-1

#BEYOURAIKON YOURAIKON YOURAIKON

RCB multicurrency card One card - five currencies · No foreign exchange commission · Direct access to your accounts in 5 currencies · Free travel insurance

RCB Bank Ltd. Private Company.

Registration number: 72376. Registered office: 2, Amathountos street, 3105 Limassol, Cyprus.

RCB branches are open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

www.rcbcy.com

800 00 722

index

Towers

ΙSSUE 2 - SPRING / SUMMER 2019

6

At your service The team of Olympic Residence.

Living a life of luxury

14

Central Park The capital’s five star high rise tower

22

Interview: Minister of energy Yiorgos Lakkotrypis: Cyprus closer to becoming a regional gas hub

28

A taste of Cyprus Hotspots in Limassol and Nicosia that are known for their delicious cuisine, beautiful décor and impeccable customer service

44

Profile Yiannis Georgiou, creator of unique musical journey

48

Cover Story Ramona Filip, a real style icon and fashion polymath who loves travelling the world and living life beautifully

68

Must visit Culture on the island

76

Doxia Nikia Capability not gender is the key for top businesswoman

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68

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TOWERS ISSUE 3 To reserve advertising space for the next edition of the magazine please contact: tel.: +357 22 515195 - info@alfa.com.cy

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editorial

By Demetris Tsangaras Managing Director M.G. Olympic Residences Management Ltd, Towers Condo Services Ltd, NCPR Central Park Residences Management Ltd, NCPR Central Park Residences Services Ltd, Como Restaurants Ltd

welcome message I would like to welcome you to the second

ternational online services such as Booking.

edition of Towers magazine which is a useful

com, Expedia and others. In addition, in-

guide on life and people in Cyprus for Olym-

house Como restaurant continues to be one

pic Residence and Central Park residents,

of the hottest places to dine, all day long.

tenants and others.

The Olympic Residence management team

The luxurious first publication was warmly

has been accredited with ISO 9001 and

welcomed, succeeding in taking the already

OHSAS 18001 certification-and invaluable

remarkable provision of the highest stand-

Quality, Health and Safety Management

ards of service and customer satisfaction

System standard – and lives up to its repu-

one step further.

tation.

It is no surprise that the Olympic Residence

On behalf of the management team, I do

in Limassol and our new Central Park Resi-

hope that you will find this new edition with

dence Tower in Nicosia are included in the

its further enriched content useful, interest-

top accommodations reviews/ratings by in-

ing and enjoyable.

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at your service

MEET

the team

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7

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1) CHRISTOFOROS GEORGIOU NIGHT MANAGER 2) ELISAVET XENOFONTOS FLOORS SUPERVISOR 3) LARISA VIDRASCO THE O HAIR AND BEAUTY SALON SUPERVISOR 4) STAMATIS AGKELKOS HEAD OF MAINTENANCE 5) PANAGIOTIS MENIKIDES ACCOUNTANT 6) HRISTINA HRISTOVA COMO OSTERIA MANAGER 7) THOES ODIATES OPERATIONS MANAGER 8) CHRISTINA CHARALAMBOUS CHIEF ACCOUNTANT 9) DEMETRIS A. TSANGARAS MIH MANAGING DIRECTOR

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10) ANTONIS C. CHRISTOU RESIDENT MANAGER 11) DESPO TOUNIA EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER 12) DEMOS GEORGIADES COMO OSTERIA CHIEF ACCOUNTANT 13) STELIOS KOUSIAPPAS DUTY MANAGER 14) MICHAELA SERB OLYMPIC SPA SUPERVISOR 15) ANDREA CHRYSAFI (PA) EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT 16) GIORGOS ARISTOTELOUS PERSONAL FITNESS AND SWIMMING COACH 17) SAADI AMRI AMINE HEAD OF SECURITY

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at your service

A day at Olympic Residence

LIVING A LIFE 8 TO W E R S # 2

of luxury

Walking into an Olympic Residence apartment on Limassol’s breathtaking beachfront all you can think of is that this must be paradise on earth. And that you could live there forever.

By Annie Charalambous

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LIVING A LIFE OF LUXURY A DAY AT OLYMPIC RESIDENCE

T

he Mediterranean island’s luxury condominium - open since 2011 - has certainly set the highest standards for a new concept of living.

I recently spent a weekend there at the invitation of Olympic Residence’s head of management team Demetris Tsangaras.

He explained that a condominium is the type of accommodation where the owner enjoys all the facilities of a five-star hotel during their stay. And this is exactly what has been achieved.

There is no need to worry about breakfast, lunch, dinner, grocery shopping, daily cleaning or the housekeeping.

Just like any five-star hotel or exclusive resort, every service is provided for.

It is no surprise that all 110 apartments of the two 20-floor towers are sold. But – thankfully - some are available to rent for selective customers who visit year-round from all over the world, including Cyprus.

Staying at a tastefully decorated apartment on the 12th floor was a dream come true. And not only because of the million-dollar views of the Limassol coastline.

Limassol’s high-end marina, landmark old port, idyllic castle area and vibrant old town are all within walking distance. Situated in the heart of the business centre, this exclusive residence is just around the corner from high-class shops.

Not to mention that a shopping piazza and top art gallery, situated on the ground level of Olympic Residence, provide all that a demanding shopper could ask for.

There you can find designer names and accessories such as Versace, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Vera Wang, Burberry, Faberge, Furla, Gianfranco Ferre, Max & Co., Baby Dior etc.

But let’s take this grand experience one step at a time. A bottle of red wine and a platter of fresh fruit on the dining table is the first ‘official’ welcome.

Then indulge yourself with the management’s very 10 TO W E R S # 2

There is no need to worry about breakfast, lunch, dinner, grocery shopping, daily cleaning or the housekeeping. Just like any five-star hotel or exclusive resort, every service is provided for.

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LIVING A LIFE OF LUXURY A DAY AT OLYMPIC RESIDENCE

thoughtful touches – such as luxury amenities on your bedside and the en-suite’s Molton Brown soap and body wash to complete a superb high-pressure shower experience.

Twenty-four-hour room service is provided by Como restaurant - on the ground floor. What better way to start your day than with a mouth-watering Italian omelette or eggs benedict served with coffee or tea.

Or go light and healthy with yogurt and muesli – especially if you plan to go for an early-morning rejuvenating swim.

This is where your dilemma begins; since you have the choice of both an indoor and an outdoor pool.

Then again you could simply walk out of the building and jump in the sea without worrying about available sunbeds and clean beach towels since this is all taken care of. While sipping a cocktail or a freshly-squeezed juice on your sunbed, there is the option to adjust your apartment’s curtains or switch on the air-conditioning so that you don’t go back to a hot apartment. This can be done on your smartphone or other high-tech devices.

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A similar lifestyle is offered by high-rise modern buildings such as the Olympic Residence which has attracted people from around the world as permanent residents.

Super-smart living made simple If the car needs petrol or a good wash - just pick up the phone and call the concierge. This will allow you much-deserved time for the gym, a relaxing massage or thalassotherapy at the building’s exclusive spa. If you play tennis, then take advantage of the member’s court, followed by a drink at the country club. And maybe go for a coiffure, manicure or pedicure at The O at Olympic Residence which uses top products such as Kevin Murphy. Then again, if too busy to pamper yourself the business centre offers such magnificent views of Cyprus that you will feel less deprived. Needless to say, free Wi-Fi is availa-

ble throughout. Condominium is a Latin word and the concept dates back to the ancient times when it was common for Romans to live together in big yards, making use of common facilities.

A similar lifestyle is offered by high-rise modern buildings such as the Olympic Residence which has attracted people from around the world as permanent residents.

Olympic Residence is a Cypriot-registered company with international investors, such as Marfields Enterprises who are behind other high-profile projects – in Limassol and another in the capital Nicosia.

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PRESENTATION

Central Park

THE CAPITAL’ S FIVE-STAR

high rise TOWER

Building a future with Marfields Enterprises

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CENTRAL PARK THE CAPITAL’S FIVE-STAR HIGH RISE TOWER

Marfields Enterprises

Building a future D

emand is high for state-of-the-art Central Park Residence apartments which overlook the main park and cultural centre of Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus.

“Bookings for both short-term and long-term stay are in abundance, it is the capital’s five-star high rise building that truly caters for business clientele,” said Demetris Tsangaras, head of the management team.

“What is of utmost importance to business clientele is that the Ministries of Finance and Interior and the Parliament building are all within

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walking distance,” he added. Also within walking distance is the traditional Laiki Yitonia in the old town and the Cyprus Museum, the island’s oldest and largest archaeological museum. As well as the well-heeled shopping streets of Stasikratous and Mnasiadou.

The luxury 22-storey residential building on Evagorou Street, opposite the old GSP stadium, has a total of 37 apartments and opened its doors in November 2018. Boasting a spa centre and indoor swimming pool, Central Park Residence also includes a 24-hour concierge service,

fitness centre and a bar. Each apartment includes an elegant living room, dining area and a fully functional kitchen with a Nespresso coffee machine. Free Wi-Fi is also available, and so is private parking on site. Not to mention that the nearest airport – that of Larnaca – is only, 50 kilometres from Central Park Residence where a hectic day can be rounded off with a game of table tennis or billiards at the property. Behind this new prime location project, is Marfields Enterprises, a Cypriot-registered company with international ownership.

More info: http://cparkresidence.com

Mr Tal Mashkif, managing director of Marfields Enterprises S P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 17

MARFIELDS ENTERPRISES BUILDING A FUTURE

Olympic Resort

LIVING

by the sea Another project of Marfields Enterprises, currently under construction, is the Olympic Resort situated on the Limassol beachfront.

Offering magnificent views and covering 28,000 square metres of land, it is one of the largest residential projects in Cyprus in terms of landscape and floors.

Its 29 floors will accommodate two restaurants, bars, a spa, hammam, tennis courts, mini-golf course, indoor swimming pool, outdoor pool, huge lobby areas, reception, and concierge on a 24-hour basis.

More info: https://www.oly-resort.com/

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Find your local

Alphamega Hypermarket

Alphamega Hypermarkets are the largest retail store chain in Cyprus and one of the most rapidly developing companies in the country. Their name has been connected to a unique shopping experience everyone can enjoy while visiting Alphamega Hypermarkets. Quality, freshness and affordable prices are the core values which accompany every customer when choosing Alphamega Hypermarkets. A fruit & vegetable section with focus on carefully picked fresh produce, a bakery with constantly freshly baked goods, a dedicated to clients’ needs meat and fish section, a selected delicatessen section and a rotisserie corner are just few of the services provided in almost every Alphamega Hypermarket.

A wide range of well-known brand label products along with “Alphamega” private label, reflecting the quality of the Hypermarkets’ philosophy at competitive prices, can be found on all other sections offered at every store. Alphamega Hypermarkets’ café is surely a great add-on to everyone’s shopping experience, providing a tasty selection of dishes, snacks and beverages. As a purely Cypriot retail chain, Alphamega Hypermarkets support local producers and offer their clients fresh and traditional products on a daily basis.

Exclusively at

Exclusively at

Facebook Page:

facebook.com/AlphamegaHypermarkets/

Find more information on our website:

Contact number:

77000088

Interview

YIORGOS LAKKOTRYPIS Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry

CYPRUS

closer

TO BECOMING A GAS HUB

By Annie Charalambous

With energy becoming the new boom industry, Cyprus has licensed a total of eight exploration blocks in its Exclusive Economic Zone to global oil and gas giants. The latest development was the drilling by the ExxonMobil and Qatar Petroleum consortium of two wells offshore the Mediterranean island.

On February 28, Cyprus and ExxonMobil announced a gas find estimated between 5-8 trillion cubic feet (tcf) in the ‘Glafcos 1’ well in Block 10 of the island’s EEZ. Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry Yiorgos Lakkotrypis said Glafcos is the biggest discovery so far offshore Cyprus and the world’s third largest gas discovery in the past two years.

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YIORGOS LAKKOTRYPIS A NEW GAS HUB

T

he Minister also told Towers Magazine in an exclusive interview: “The ExxonMobil and Qatar Petroleum consortium commenced drilling two wells back-to-back at the end of 2018”.

Up until Glafcos, the island’s two significant gas discoveries were the “Calypso 1” well, for which further studies are needed to establish quantity estimates.

And the “Aphrodite” natural gas field which is now ready to be exploited.

“Aphrodite’s gas will be transported via a submarine pipeline to one of Egypt’s gas liquefaction plants, from where it will be exported as liquefied natural gas,” the Minister said.

“For our energy strategy, of course, high on the list of priorities is also the acceleration of the deployment of renewable energy sources, which today contribute around 9.3% of the gross final energy consumption,” he added.

In combination with the exploitation of Cyprus’ energy potential, this will also serve the EU-member state’s goal of diversifying its energy mix and achieving the target of the Renewable Energy Directive for 13% contribution to the gross final energy consumption by 2020.

As well as increasing the country’s competitiveness by reducing costs and ensuring reliable and affordable energy supply.

To achieve these goals, the Minister underlined that a number of measures have been taken, including the promotion of small and distributed production through the installation of photovoltaic (PV) systems in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

These operate under a net-metering, net-billing or self-generation scheme.

In addition, a complete overhaul of the electricity market is on the way through the introduction of competitive market rules - to be in operation this year. These rules will allow Renewable Energy System technologies to compete on equal footing with

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For our energy strategy high on the list of priorities is the acceleration of the deployment of renewable energy sources, which today contribute around 9.3% of the gross final energy consumption.

conventional generation ones, without any government financial support.

Another measure is the development of a Renewable Energy Roadmap towards 2030, according to which high penetration levels of RES are economically and technically feasible under certain conditions - with particular emphasis on Storage Technologies.

As well as the modernization of the electricity system towards smart grids. The Distribution System Operator is in fact currently implementing an Advanced Metering Infrastructure application project.

Positive momentum in tourism Cyprus tourism is experiencing nothing short of a revolution with a new tourism strategy aiming to double visitor arrivals, triple tourist revenue and attract €20 bln in new investment to Cyprus by 2030.

“The proposed new growth model for tourism aims to attract ‘premium tourists’ with more per capita

Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Yiorgos Lakkotrypis expenditure, as well as to create significant added value for Cyprus and its economy,” said Yiorgos Lakkotrypis who held the tourism portfolio until the establishment in January of the Mediterranean island’s first Deputy Ministry of Tourism.

“In this regard, the sector’s sustainability is considered a high priority,” added the Minister.

Following a long period of decline or stagnation in tourist numbers, Cyprus has witnessed since 2015 despite the financial crisis - significant increases of both arrivals and revenues.

A historic high of just under four million tourists visited Cyprus in 2018, which was a 7.8 per cent increase compared with 2017, according to data from the Cyprus Statistical Service.

Between January and December 2018, a total of 3,938,625 tourists chose Cyprus as their destination, compared to the 3,652,073 tourists who visited in the same period in 2017.

The 2018 annual figures for tourist arrivals were the highest ever recorded, Cystat said.

“To ensure that this positive momentum is maintained, our government is now moving forward with our new comprehensive National Tourism Strategy for 2030, to be implemented by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism which started operations on January 2,” Lakkotrypis said.

“According to the basic findings of a study conducted prior to formulating the Strategy, through its implementation tourist arrivals could exceed 6 million per year – 4.2 million foreigners and 1.36 million local tourists – 40% of which, will visit Cyprus in the period from November to April,” he added.

The government’s Tourism Strategy to 2030 aims to maximize the use of Cyprus’ comparative advantages while repositioning the island’s tourism brand by making a strategic shift towards an upgraded, enriched and diversified tourism service.

“Focus will also be on quality and enrichment of our tourism services and infrastructure, by supporting investments in tourism, mainly from the private sector.”

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YIORGOS LAKKOTRYPIS A NEW GAS HUB

“As well as reducing bureaucracy, improving the availability of personnel and training plus coordinating the promotion of Cyprus’ image abroad.”

Cyprus’ new industrial

New industrial policy

renewed EU Industrial

The government recently announced the launch of a long-term industrial strategy policy, envisaging the creation of a robust, smart and technologically advanced industry with related services.

The aim is to double industry’s share of gross domestic product by the year 2030.

“At the outset, I have to point out that Cyprus’ new industrial policy is in line with the renewed EU Industrial Policy Strategy, which aims at increasing the sector’s share of European GDP at 20% by 2020,” the Minister said.

“That being said, for industry in Cyprus - which is dominated by small businesses that focus on high-value, knowledge-intensive production - we have indeed set an ambitious but realistic target,” he added.

The new policy’s importance to the economy will be increased by expanding growth in key areas of activity. Initially, the focus will be on the productive sector of industry, as well as other interrelated sectors with a high growth and export potential, such as shipping, tourism, energy, education, sustainable farming and ICT. To this end the Ministry, in close cooperation with public and private stakeholders, is now in the process of initiating a 12-year action plan, establishing the necessary framework and providing for the appropriate policy instruments to accelerate growth.

Cyprus citizenship programme On the popular Cyprus citizenship by investment scheme which has come under fire from the European Union, the Minister said that this is governed by strict control procedures in order to prevent abuse.

At the same time, Cabinet has recently approved additional changes to its Citizenship-by-Investment 2 6 TO W E R S # 2

policy is in line with the Policy Strategy, which aims at increasing the sector’s share of European GDP at 20% by 2020.

scheme so as to become more targeted and trustworthy.

“To encourage further Foreign Direct Investment and attract high net worth individuals to settle and do business on the island, Cyprus has established, and revised in 2016, a ‘Scheme for Naturalization of non-Cypriot investors by exception’,” Lakkotrypis said.

“This is governed by strict control procedures in order to prevent abuse,” he added.

Nicosia came under criticism from Brussels for a lack of transparency in its passport-for-investment scheme.

Lakkotrypis said that given the many promising investment opportunities available in Cyprus, in most areas of economic activity, the Scheme has proven highly attractive.

It requires at least €2.5 million combined investment in such sectors as Cypriot businesses, real estate, land development and infrastructure projects.

Moreover, he underlined, applicants must possess a permanent, privately-owned residence in the Republic of Cyprus, the purchase price of which must be at least €500,000, plus V.A.T.

must try

Vivaldi by Mavrommatis, Limassol

A taste of Cyprus 60 hotspots in Limassol and Nicosia that are known for their delicious cuisine, beautiful dĂŠcor and impeccable customer service

By Kleanthis Kleanthous Cyprus has nothing to be jealous of bigger countries anymore, since many more venues that make a statement have made an appearance, giving plenty of options to local residents but also to those who choose to visit the country.

Cute bistros with sophisticated flavours, gourmet food, well-researched recipes from every corner of the globe, delicious meat, fresh seafood that you can enjoy by the sea, local recipes (often with a creative twist), imaginative cocktails and plenty of brunch options, will satisfy every palate and fit every budget. We chose 60 hotspots in Limassol and Nicosia that are known for their savoury taste, beautiful setting, and impeccable hospitality!

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LIMASSOL If you love fish and seafood, then at Old Limassol Beach Bar & Resto (25321047) you can have delicious squid, cuttlefish and grilled octopus, fresh sea bream and sea bass, which you can wash down with ouzo, right by the sea. There is also Puesta Oyster Bar and Grill (25329040), which is a fine-dining restaurant specialising in shellfish and seafood, in a magical and idyllic setting by the sea.

Near the Medieval Castle, on Ankiras Street, you will come across the small tavern Old Neighbourhood (25376082), known as Ta Psarakia to Nikou, which serves only fresh sea of the day and will win you over from the first bite.

On the other hand, if you would rather enjoy the best steak in town, then you absolutely have to go to Columbia Steak House (25278000) set in a cosmopolitan area in the centre of Limassol. And at the Four Seasons Hotel, you will find the multiple award-winning restaurant Vivaldi by Mavrommatis (25858000) known for its fine concepts by Executive Chef Andreas Mavrommatis (the only Michelin-star chef in Cyprus!) and innovative

Epsilon at Limassol Marina

Artima

Head Chef George Constantinou. If you love international cuisine, the Do Wine & Dine (25020056) menu is filled with a wide variety of seafood, meat - from poultry and game to steak - and pasta with over 300 wine labels. At Uptown Square, you will meet the Zen Room (25025555) where you get a taste of an impressive compilation of Japanese cuisine. At the Tokyo Restaurant Bar (25321313), dominated by a rather Asian fusion approach, you will come across options not only from Japanese cuisine but also fancy dishes with meat (such as steak) and poultry. The Akakiko (77778022), located in The Royal Apollonia Hotel, offers a minimalist venue overlooking the sea where you can enjoy Japanese cuisine with high-quality ingredients.

At Columbia Plaza, the doors of PokĂŠloha (25278000) have recently opened, it serves Hawaiian sushi while giving you the opportunity to create your own bowl of exotic food of your choice!

And at the Limassol Marina, the Epsilon Resto Bar (25051393) specialises in modern Mediterranean cuisine, offering plenty of options from fish and seafood to meat and sushi. Just a little further down, at Pyxida (25051200), the little brother of the multiple award-winning fish restaurant in Nicosia, you can have delicious appetizers, fresh fish, mouth-watering seafood pasta, tasty fish soup and very good service!

The hottest spot on the coastal front is none other than Columbia Beach (25321500), which gathers the city’s most trendy patrons, especially on Sunday, becoming the busiest place around. In addition to delightful cockS P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 2 9

MUST TRY A TASTE OF CYPRUS

tails by the beach, you can taste the delicious dishes of the restaurant, which covers all tastes offering snacks, cold or hot appetizers, cool fresh salads, homemade soups, meat, fish, fresh sushi, pasta and risotto and of course homemade sweets and ice cream.

In the heart of the “second capital,” the Bordello Bar (70005868) is a new acquisition by the Breeze Group that has managed to quickly steal the show and become the talk of the town. With a theatre stage feel that takes you to the liveliness and rhythm of the French cabaret in the last century, apart from a wide selection of cock-

Kypriakon

tails and wines, you will find several interesting options such as salmon ceviche, salmon souvlaki, pizza, salads and various food platters. Overlooking Limassol Medieval Castle, the restaurants of the Carob Mill Restaurants Group will satisfy your need for quality food! At the very fine Artima Bistro (25820466) you can enjoy Italian and Mediterranean flavours, Cypriot traditional meze (meat and fish) at Karatello Tavern (25820464) with a more modern approach, and at Draught Microbrewery (25820470) there is a wide selection of beers and international dishes inspired by the cuisines of Mexico, Germany, America and Greece. Carob Mill Restaurants 3 0 TO W E R S # 2

adds more dining options at the Lanitis Carobmill Complex next to the Medieval Castle in Limassol: Vecchia Napoli (25347171) brings the very best of Napolitan and Italian Pizza to your table. Just a few metres from there you can enjoy the asian flavours, especially unique sushi creations, at Yabashi Asian Fusion (25820430). The new craze for brunch is spreading at lightning speed throughout the coastal town. The most popular place is without a doubt The Cookhouse (25353434) on Gladstonos Street. The Eggs Benedict, blueberry pancakes with maple syrup and mascarpone cheese are all a must try! At the heart of Makarios Avenue, you will find Pralina Experience (25355336) with delicious breakfast and brunch dishes, well-prepared wraps and homemade burgers with delicious side orders for lunch, while in the evening, the menu mainly consists of different options with meat, fish or pasta that are sure to impress even the most demanding. The avant-garde French pastry Pralina is the best reward for your visit to Pralina Experience. You absolutely have to try the tiramisu espresso!

A classic mansion in old Limassol was transformed into an elegant small hotel, Sir Paul (25755454). The area has a beautiful inner courtyard where you can taste among other things a rich brunch with seasonal ingredients and 16 other main dishes.

American flavours from Barbecoa BBQ (25105999), where you have the opportunity to enjoy homemade meat – which is smoked for 3 to 19 hours, using traditional methods - including juicy burgers and meat platters (pulled pork and pulled beef), which will shock you with delight.

In an idyllic location overlooking the sea, on the ground floor of Olympic Residence, the Como Osteria (25247247) serves unique, authentic Italian and Mediterranean dishes that satisfy even the most demanding palate. The place is famous for its fresh pasta, the risotto, traditional pizza with a thin dough that is crisp, soup and main course dishes with meat and fish.

The all-time-classic Italian restaurant La Pasteria il Gusto Italiano (25952638) has changed its location from Akrotiri to the centre of the old town of Limassol

MEATing Grill & Co Carob Mill Restaurants Ltd is introducing MEATing Grill & Co, (tel. 25211766) a new restaurant that combines a rustic ambiance and a palatable selection of smoky flavoured Steaks & Meats chargrilled in the world known Josper oven, complimented by a fine selection of charcuterie & cheeses. The underground walk-in temperature controlled wine cava of MEATing promises to impress even the most demanding Connoisseurs. The Josper Gastrogrill offers a remarkable combination of grill, smoker and oven which means it has the flavour of the grill and the controlled cooking temperature of the oven.

in Ayios Andreou street, in a delightfully restored mansion with a magnificent courtyard where, until recently, the House Bar & Restaurant once stood. Here lovers of pasta and authentic Italian cuisine will experience an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

On Eirinis Street you will come across Le Frenchie (25212333), a cosy French restaurant with traditional homemade cuisine. For delicious, traditional dishes, AMEK Kapsalou-Makarios (25382744) is an institution among Limassol residents. It is a clubhouse operating for over 40 years, offering classic Cypriot recipes but not in a typical meze serving. Sikaminia (25365280) is one of the first cookeries’ that opened in the area of​​ old Limassol. At the Kypriakon (25101555) in the Old Harbor, yesterday meets today with popular dishes of Cypriot cuisine evolved with modern cooking methods.

Stuffing with roasted pine nuts, orange-flavoured Resi, as well as classic dishes such as Lefkara Tavas and oven baked macaroni will excite you. Try the Cypriot Mojito with red zivania, but also the delightful mousse!

The same philosophy is followed by the Dionysus Mansion (25222210), which is preparing to open its wonderful summer courtyard. The restaurant serves Greek and Cypriot traditional cuisine with a gourmet attitude, with imaginative dishes such as chicken stuffed with halloumi, sun-dried tomatoes and mushrooms, risotto-lime and pork tenderloin with sausage stuffing and hazelnuts to offer a special and alternative option. Patrons can also enjoy brunch, as well as a rich lunchtime buffet.

For the most delicious and juicy burgers in the city, stop at The Fat Bull Co. (70002737), which is located opposite the Tsirion Stadium. Try also try the spare ribs (which literally melting in the mouth!) And you will remember us! On the other hand, at Bakery Kafeneio (25106881) you choose dishes that are mainly for health food lovers, with many vegan and vegetarian suggestions (all ingredients are gluten-free). Quinoa or red bean burgers, energy bites, smoothie bowls, salads and wraps, dishes of the day, delicious raw sweets and pancakes, make up its special menu.

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MUST TRY A TASTE OF CYPRUS

Paul

NICOSIA In an aged, protected building on Faneromeni Street wedged in the cobbled streets of the old town, you can find Balcony (99999626), with a beautiful internal courtyard and a menu with international fusion cuisine and sushi platters. On Ledra Street, you will come across CafÊ Mercedes (22270777), a fine club restaurant that serves multi-ethnic cuisine with Asian and Mediterranean flavours and enjoy signature cocktails. You must try the ribeye with tasty miso & chilli sauce. For a juicy and well-prepared burger, the Artisan’s Burgerbar (22759300) is the ideal place for you! But you can also try awesome burgers at Limoncello Deli Bar (70009787) at the Agios Antonios market. There is also in the brand new Rocomamas (22766069), the first store of the famous chain of renowned burgers from South Africa has opened in Cyprus!

In the heart of the capital, you can find Barrafino (22767696), serving dishes based on international cui3 2 TO W E R S # 2

sine with the signature of Chef Christos Hadjiliras. We recommend Tataki tuna, pork medallions with fig and honey sauce, steak and octopus with Santorini fava. A la carte lunch menu on Sundays. Elma & Fred (22680400) is an original concept store in the heart of the capital, where shopping meets taste in harmony! In its food section, one can find exquisite gourmet deli products such as biscuits, balsamic, tea, olives, vegetables, jams and Italian oils. For those who love fresh fish and seafood, the only choice is a one-way street that leads to Pyxida (22445636), which is exclusively geared towards the discerning palate. The fish soup is a must try. Also, Paragadi (22491310) offers diners unique culinary delights. Sea bream, red mullet, common bream, parrot fish and kourkouna are only a few of the fresh fish available, along with delicious hot appetizers such as cod with sweet chilli sauce and mussels in garlic, and for those more demanding there is a hearty lobster pasta.

Pantopoleio kali orexi

Beba

The famous French bakery chain PAUL (22029377) is located in the centre of Nicosia in a beautiful area with a refined style. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch. Just like in Limassol, Pralina Experience (22665588) in Nicosia is the new hotspot on Stasikratous Street. In the morning they serve brunches such as omelettes, sandwiches and snacks, and then the baton is passed to an amazing daytime menu featuring main courses and other options in fine dining.

The desserts on the menu are prepared real time in the kitchen and are different from those that are available to take-away. Skinny Fox (22256070) managed from the very beginning to win over the capital’s residents, with red floral wallpaper as a trademark reminiscent of a London hangout. Its international cuisine menu offers starters such as spicy octopus, Persian meatballs and beef Carpaccio while main dishes include pulled duck, beef fillet and ribeye steak. As for making an impression, their signature cocktails such as the Mint Julep will definitely steal the show. Near Famagusta Gate, you can have brunch at the D.O.T. (22101228) while enjoying gourmet dishes at an affordable price, such as the risotto with yellow squash, a lamb shank cooked in parchment paper and maple glazed salmon. The menu at Akakiko (77778022) in Engomi has been synonymous with authentic Far Eastern cuisine. Immerse yourself in a gourmet adventure with the aromas of Japan, China, Thailand, Korea, and Taiwan, while trying a wide variety of sushi, maki, sashimi and temaki, as well as signature dishes like Thai calamari and Hong Kong pork. Jamie’s Italian (22028939) is the first restaurant in Cyprus of the internationally renowned chef Jamie Oliver. The menu that he put together with Italian chef Gennaro Contaldo offers authentic Italian dishes such as fresh pasta, risotto, pizza, meat, fish but also burgers. If you find yourself in Onasagorou Street you should definitely make a quick stop at Avo Lahmajoun (22661172) where you can enjoy the most delicious authentic Armenian lahmajoun or its famous handmade halloumi pie, with prices that are amazingly low.

After 10 years of operation, the Pantopoleio-Kali Orexi (99075151) recently moved to a brand-new modern S P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 3 3

MUST TRY A TASTE OF CYPRUS

building on Metochiou Street, keeping its philosophy firmly on its menu, with dishes from Greek cuisine with influences from all over the Mediterranean. Amongst other things, you can enjoy stuffed food, salad with black bean, pilaf with tuna and aubergines, pork shank with pumpkin puree, kleftiko, but also delicious sweets like baklava with vanilla ice cream. The traxanokeftedes are a must try!

For meat lovers and traditional Cypriot cuisine, Zanettos tavern (22765501) has proved its worth in Nicosia dating back to 1938. Patio Cocktail Bar (22664488) with characteristic coloured shutters has changed the concept of its menu, with chef Thanos Stasinos creating dishes inspired by the Nikkei cuisine, with Latin flavours, mainly Peruvian, American and Spanish cuisine with Japanese touches. Mouson Bar Restaurant (22664444) also changed its location from old Nicosia, moved to a new, designer space in the centre of the capital at Stasandrou Street. Open lunch and dinner, the restaurant serves dishes that focus on international cuisine, as well as brunch on weekdays and on weekends.

The legendary Egeon tavern (22253030) has made a dynamic comeback and re-opened with a new-look traditional decor and a renewed menu where you will find Cypriot and Greek recipes with plates to share. Taste the delicious vegetable pies, aromatic sheftalies, handmade macaroni with anari and chicken as well as the beef stew! For delicious five-star souvlaki and kebab, do not miss to visit a new entry to the capital, the Proedros (70088070), that serves other oriental delicacies such as kebab marinated in yoghurt, soutzouki and pastourma! At the end keep a little room for a delightful sweet Kanafeh! Beer aficionados will love the brand-new Beer & Beer (22314671) on Makarios Avenue, which features over 100 different beer labels from around the world!

Whilst there you can accompany your cold beer with delicious German sausages, burgers or Black Angus rib 3 4 TO W E R S # 2

The new fast casual restaurant gohealthyetc is the new fast-casual restaurant and all-day café in Nicosia, (Opposite European University, Engomi) with a large variety of delicious, nutritious, healthy and well-balanced food and drink choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner. gohealthyetc is the ultimate alternative to junk food and offers a truly unique selection of wraps, sandwiches and salads from around the world, as well as tasty soups and comfort food made with love and care as ready-to-go dishes each and every day, by famous Chef Pericles Roussounides. www.gohealthyetc.com (tel. 22744744)

eye. The same goes for Finders Bar & Grill (22750700), which will impress you with its retro decoration. Platters with Bavarian sausages and a variety of cheeses, spare ribs, fajitas and wraps are the perfect accompaniment to the beer or wine you choose as you enjoy rock music from previous decades. The minimalist Nom (22777077) in the centre of the capital serves healthy food options from brunch to lunch, as well as delicious desserts. Be sure to try the beetroot pasta, sweet potato chips and delicious pancakes. At Beba (22252626) you will enjoy the most delicious “giant” cuisine in the capital, with traditional dishes of the day and juicy meat coming straight out of the wood oven!

The only floating venue in Limassol Marina, with stunning view of sea and luxury yachts.

Marina Breeze Lounge Bar is your ideal destination throughout the day. Point of reference is the beautiful veranda, an extension of the Marina Breeze, which floats on the water.

Begin your day enjoying breakfast with our aromatic coffees and refreshing smoothies. Continue your day with food and drink choices from an extensive menu, available until late accompanied by quality music entertainment.

We recommend you to try our brunch which is served every day from 10 am until 4 pm! Don’t miss the chance to enjoy our desserts which are absolutely irresistible.

Your all day floating venue Reservations & Information: 25051230

must try

The Italian way!

Set in an idyllic location overlooking the sea, the Como Osteria serves unique authentic Italian and Mediterranean flavours that satisfy even the most discerning palate

By Kleanthis Kleanthous Photos by Demetris Pastellas

L

ocated on the ground floor of Olympic Residence on one of Limassol’s busiest streets, Como Osteria is a breath away from the sea, which automatically opens the appetite while making the atmosphere even more special and romantic.

It is no coincidence that in 2015 it was awarded as the best new arrival on the island, a wellknown gastronomic institution of Cyprus.

The simplicity and minimal design of the place contrast with the rich choices you will meet on the menu (which changes according to the season so that visitors can benefit from local ingredients), and of course focuses on Italian cuisine, with influences from the wider Mediterranean.

“Osteria”, for those who do not know, is the simple tavern of Italy; this doesn’t mean that the food is ordinary. The exact opposite in fact!

The options at Como Osteria are many and at all hours of the day, since it is an all-day cafe-restaurant, where you can have a delicious

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breakfast, lunch and dinner, or simply relax with a enjoyable coffee overlooking the sea view. Of course, we could not resist the authentic Italian flavours, as the place is famous for its fresh pasta (ravioli, penne, spaghetti, gnocchi and fettuccini), risotto, traditional pizzas with fine crisp dough, antipasti, appetizers, cool salads, a wide variety of seafood and meat, burgers, sandwiches, delicious sweets, and a long list of local and Italian wines to accompany your meal. Our waiter, polite, smiling and eager, accompanied us to our table and answered all our queries about the menu, without failing to make his own suggestions for our meal. As we sat down, we were offered hot focaccia (traditional Italian bread) with three different dips, and we chose to start our lunch with a salad of spinach, avocado and various citrus fruits.

For starters, we chose the tuna tartar and Portobello mushrooms stuffed with parmesan, on a creamy pesto. Pure enjoyment!

For the most part, we decided to share four different dishes, thus exploring the whole gamut of flavours on the menu. I chose a steamed stewed fillet with salted tomato sauce with capers and some chilli, which literally melted in the mouth. Then we tried the risotto with wild mushrooms and black truffle, pizza with buffalo mozzarella, basil, prosciutto and rucola and for the finale we kept some space for the large shrimps cooked on the grill, accompanied with beans and asparagus.The portions were generous and very gratifying, the ingredients fresh and the flavours tangled harmoniously with each other, making the final result a soaring success.

Although fullness began to send out its first messages, none of the group could resist a delightful tiramisu, thus completing a unique gastronomic experience with a heady aroma ... Italy!

Book your table, tel: 25247247 S P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 37

1959-2019

calendar

AROUND Cultural events worth going to

By Christina Skordi

Cyprus Don’t Miss In October, the Leventis Gallery hosts the exhibition “Pericles Pantazis and the Belgian Impressionists”, which takes the public back to 1872 when Pantazis settled in Brussels until his first exhibition in early 1884. The exhibition includes works by the artist himself, but also works by other great impressionists. www.leventisgallery.org

Pentadakylos Contemporaries Two parallel exhibitions, one contemporary and one historical, will have as their theme ‘Pentadaktylos’ – the mountain range that towers over Nicosia. ‘Pentadaktylos – Contemporaries’ will host contemporary works of art, exploring the artists’ relationship with the mountain range. Each work of art aims to change and engage the viewer, encouraging them to question both the importance of the ‘image’ of the mountain range, but also its role as a monument that collides with the everyday life of the city and its residents. This exhibition will take place at the A. G. Leventis Gallery until September, whilst the historical ‘Pentadaktylos’ exhibition will take place at The Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia, until September. www.leventismuseum.org.cy 4 0 TO W E R S # 2

A temporary exhibition devoted to the great artist of the first generation of Cypriot artists, George Polyviou Georghiou, whose work directly connects with the people and history of Cyprus. A large number of Georghiou’s nudes will be on display for the first time. The exhibition at the Leventis Gallery on until September. www.leventisgallery.org Two theaters, the National Theater and the Cyprus Theater Organisation, collaborate to stage an emblematic work called “Iketides” by Aeschylus, directed by George Livatinos. The show will tour in summer in Cyprus. Starring Katia Dandoulaki. For more information www.thoc.org.cy In 2019, the Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia is celebrating 30 years. In the last quarter of 2019, the second exhibition on the development of Nicosia as the island’s capital will focus on the period 1570-1878, will be inaugurated.www.leventismuseum.org.cy

Summer Festivals

© HELENE BINET

ΑFROBANANA Bands and DJs from across the world, soundtrack of explosive fusion sounds from Afro jazz to electro Cumbia; funk to blues and mambo to flamenco, you name it, afrobananarepublic.com

Things that go together The Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre (NiMAC) and the Cultural Services of the Ministry of Education and Culture of Cyprus organise the first survey exhibition of Cypriot designer Michael Anastassiades. ‘Things that go together’ is an exhibition reflecting on the designer’s twelveyear practice to date. Anastassiades is a Royal Designer for Industry (RDI) at the Royal Society of Arts. Until 20 July 2019. http://nimac.org.cy

Mood Indigo Join Mood Indigo for their own interpretation of exquisite vintage Jazz music: Irene Day (voice), Greg Makamian (double bass), Marios Toumbas (piano), Charis Ioannou (saxophone), Ioannis Vafeas (drums).

They will get together for some rare appearances in Cyprus as two of the band members live permanently in New York. At Technopolis 20 in Paphos this June. Reservations necessary at 70002420. http://moodindigomusic.com

Music and Dance at the Rialto The rhythm of modern dance and music of the world can be found at the Rialto Theater in Limassol this summer, where two of its most important annual institutions are on show. In June it features the Cypriot Contemporary Dance Festiva and during the whole of July it presents the Cyprus Rialto World Music Festival bringing together bands and singers of ethnic music who promise beautiful melodious evenings. https://rialto.interticket.com

FENGAROS Returning to the fields and cosy streets of Kato Drys! Three days, three stages, camping, food stalls, festival market and more.

August 1-3 www.fengaros.com INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF ANCIENT GREEK DRAMA a distinct cultural event with an international character, theatre companies from all over the world present ancient Greek drama in their own language. July 131. www.greekdramafest.com POMOS JAZZ FESTIVAL celebrate on the western tip of Cyprus the 20th Anniversary of Paradise Jazz Festival – the island’s oldest – on 23 & 24 of August at beautiful Val`s Place in Gialia Village and witness amazing sunsets www.paradisejazzfestival. com/ 10th CubaMiSalsa Festival at Mediterranean Beach Hotel Better & stronger every year, bringing some of the best artists worldwide, creating a magical weekend full of dance, fun, learning and emotions.

This year is the 10th Anniversary – Gold Edition. 2-4 August.

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calendar

AROUND

By Christina Skordi

the world London Olafur Eliasson: In real life

London Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams Britain pays homage to the great designer, creating his magnificent universe at the Victoria & Albert Museum. The exhibition also charts the designer’s affinity with the UK (he maintained a unique relationship with the country and Dior was fascinated by English culture), the exhibition displays the designs and pioneering lines that made fashion history, as well as his personal items.

What stands out is his white dress made for Princess Margaret on her 21st birthday. The exhibition will run until July 14.

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Olafur Eliasson returns to Tate Modern following his world-renowned Turbine Hall installation The weather project in 2003, for an unmissable exhibition of his career to date. Marking the most comprehensive solo presentation of Eliasson’s work, and his first major survey in the UK, brings together over 30 works spanning the last three decades – from celebrated early installations like Beauty 1993, to new paintings and sculptures. For the first time, the exhibition will also examine Eliasson’s wider collaborations in fields as diverse as sustainability, migration, education and architecture. Exhibition runs from July 11 – 5 January 2020

Τel-Aviv Last Work

Athens Norma Opera Norma returns to the stage at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens presented by the Greek National Opera (GNO) and La Fura dels Baus as part of the 2019 Athens and Epidaurus Festival. This opera, by Vincenzo Bellini stars distinguished Italian soprano Carmen Giannattasio (Norma) and Cellia Costea (Adalgisa). Conducted by Georgios Balatsino and director Carlus Padrissa. Performances on 5, 7, 9, 11 June.

“The piece is breathtaking for the extraordinary dancing by the Batsheva dancers, and the way Mr. Ohad Naharin can evoke states of pleasure, pain, madness and a kind of animality — a sheer state of being in the body — through his movement,” said the New York Times. The work by Naharin is performed by 18 Batsheva Dance Company dancers. The Οpera House, Tel-Aviv performing arts centre 25 & 26 June.

Milan Leonardo da Vinci, 500 years on Amsterdam All the Rembrandts For the first time, the Rijksmuseum – celebrating 350 years since the Dutch master’s death - presents an exhibition of all 22 paintings, 60 drawings and more than 300 best examples of Rembrandt’s prints in its collection. Stroll past 33 of Rembrandt’s most famous works and get to know him as a rebel, an innovator, and last but not least, as a human being.

Open until 10 June

Many European museums this year are hosting the works of the Renaissance master to commemorate the 500th anniversary of his death.

The centre of these celebrations are focused on Milan where the Ambrosiana Museum is presenting four exhibitions until the end of the year, such as the different drawing techniques the artist introduced in Milan, the engineering, architectural and scientific studies, and artistic activity during the French years.

S P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 4 3

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profile

YIANNIS GEORGIOU Pianist

creator

OF UNIQUE MUSICAL JOURNEYS

By Melissa Hekkers

“I certainly believe that music is a universal language, accessible by all,” Cyprus-born pianist Yiannis Georgiou tells me as I prod at the musical journeys that the acclaimed musician is known to deliver to his audiences.

“I love the way an audience can be brought to feel together in a concert; a communal experience…the values expressed in music are universal and I believe there is nothing divisive expressed in music,” said Georgiou.

Notably, Georgiou conveys his music by contrasting musical languages, landscapes and means of expression with distinctly different musical styles. The exciting recital programmes he offers are in his eyes, “an opportunity to put together a variety of styles, to see what goes well with what, forming a collage of matching or contrasting works and trying to create a unique journey”.

In his most recent recital, in Limassol, he represent-

ed composers such as the likes of Mozart, Debussy, Brahms and Rachmaninoff.

“But I also used works by Scarlatti and Scriabin to link those styles or to introduce them,” said Georgiou who is known to include the works of famous world composers in his repertoire.

Yet Georgiou also draws inspiration for his work from all kinds of sources, notably “emotions, philosophical reflection, beauty, the figurative language of expression, the mystery of our existence, and, of course, the works of the great masters.”

Over the years, Georgiou has performed as a soloist in numerous countries across the EU and has performed as a soloist in the UK, Greece, Cyprus, Spain, Switzerland and Germany while in his home country, Cyprus, he aims to come in contact with his audience every couple of seasons with solo recitals at the Rialto Theatre in Limassol, the town where he grew up and spent most of his childhood and where he lives S P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 4 5

YIANNIS GEORGIOU CREATOR OF MUSICAL JOURNEYS

currently.

“In between, I also do some chamber music and other projects.”

Georgiou started playing music at the age of six, but it was the piano that eventually won his heart.

“There was a classical record collection in the house when I was growing up, my father’s collection. Listening to it from an early age made me fall in love with music.”

“Initially, it could have been any instrument (that he was drawn to) I suppose, but my parents chose the piano for lessons, and it felt natural. I think both physically and aurally, the piano fascinates.”

Georgiou’s education and career began in London, at the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance with Alexander Ardakov and John Bingham, where he received numerous competition prizes and graduated with the DipTCL Performer’s Diploma.

He then moved on to the Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatoire, initially with Professor Valery Kastelsky, a student of the legendary Heinrich Neuhaus, and finally with Pavel Nersessian. He graduated with the Aspirant Diploma. Georgiou is the only Cypriot pianist to have received this award.

Admitting that the profession of a musician is a very demanding one and one that requires him to always be a creator, the inventive aspect of music is what seems to drive Georgiou most, It’s also what he loves about music.

“Something new is born every day when you play the piano. You need to be forever resourceful in solving problems. And as for concerts, well, no two are alike.”

Yet Georgiou finds it difficult to single out a distinct highlight of his career or even to pinpoint a memorable moment.

“It’s hard to say,” he pauses, “but if a career can be said to also include the years of one’s studies, then the period when I was studying in Moscow, at the Moscow Tchaikovsky State Conservatory, was certainly memorable.”

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Something new is born every day when you play the piano

“But also, the countless concerts I have attended over the years,” Georgiou reflects.

“A concert experience, even though live, finite and transient can take residence in us and carry-on living in us.”

Interview

By Evelyn Matisse

}

RAMONA FILIP

LIVING

beautifully Photography by Harris Kyprianou Makeup by Ilona Garamvolgyi

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RAMONA FILIP LIVING BEAUTIFULLY

With striking feminine dresses and precisely-cut separates, Ramona Filip’s career as a fashion designer has been a hit with trendsetters from the start. Yet, it’s her extraordinary personal style and fascinating personality that have elevated her into a social media influencer, locally and internationally. Meet a real style icon and fashion polymath who loves her Romanian roots, travelling the world and living life beautifully.

How did you decide to become a fashion designer?

I had a love for fashion and beauty from a young age.

Although I studied Business Administration, my need for creativity was stronger. I think that was my calling, the driving force that led me to become a fashion designer.

What makes Ramon Filip such a popular brand.

Do you follow international fashion trends?

I believe over the years the Ramon Filip brand has developed a signature style which remains consistent to its core values, yet it constantly changes and evolves. I do not really take into consideration seasons or trends. I love to see where the international fashion industry is going, but I believe more in timeless fashion and style of course. I strongly believe in femininity and the feeling a dress offers to the woman who wears it. This philosophy is very predominant in every collection from the beginning until now.

What’s the most exciting thing about your job?

Apart from the creativity component, the production process is fascinating, and the most difficult part of course. But the real excitement and pleasure come from when I see a woman wearing one of my designs and looks absolutely stunning! That’s the greatest feeling!

Tell us a few things about your new collection.

It’s a very glamorous collection inspired by the disco 5 0 TO W E R S # 2

Elegance is key to my designs. It’s a blend of tailoring, high-quality fabrics, meticulous details and timeless feminine lines, all coming together in contemporary designs

divas and the 70’s style icons. It is a combination of my feminine signature styles and more contemporary party pieces. There are a lot of metallic hues, pleats and fluid lines. Velvet is also a dominant material in this collection, giving its luxurious feeling to feminine dresses. But, most importantly, this collection is filled with beautiful handmade embroideries and embellishments, which make dresses and jackets absolutely stunning. I love working in detail with the best fabric quality and tailoring. And this collection has it all.

What makes Ramon Filip designs unique?

The women I design for are always at the centre of my creative process. I design for them and I try to offer them the dress that will make them feel irresistible wearing it. Apart from that, elegance is key to my designs. It’s a blend of tailoring, high-quality fabrics, meticulous details and timeless feminine lines, all coming together in contemporary designs.

It gives me great pleasure and satisfaction to know that my followers respond positively and that so many of them are inspired by me and follow me faithfully. I’m truly grateful and I thank them

How do your Romanian roots influence your work, your designs. What are your sources of inspiration?

The Romanian tradition and cultural heritage is an endless source of inspiration to me. I have lived there and spent my childhood years surrounded by traditional costumes, music, architecture, motifs...

So much beauty! Everything is still so vivid in my memory and it affects every design of mine in one way or another. There are always pieces inspired

by Romanian tradition in every collection. Sometimes the inspiration is very obvious, other times it is understated and may be hidden in a colour, or the line of a dress. Apart from that, I love nature and I find tonnes of inspiration every time I turn to it. The shapes, the colours, miraculous little details, there’s so much to it. I also get a lot of inspiration from my travels. Visiting new countries, meeting people, getting to know new cultures and civilizations is exS P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 51

RAMONA FILIP LIVING BEAUTIFULLY

tremely eye-opening.

How did you end up living in Cyprus?

I followed my heart. I met my husband in Bucharest, many years ago, and I came with him to visit Cyprus.

We ended up together, so here I am.

You’re very popular on social media. How did you get there. How do you feel being an influencer?

I went with the flow! It was a new thing when it started, so I had to give it a try. I started expressing myself freely and spontaneously. It was a natural consequence for me to show through my posts a sophisticated blend of style, fashion, personal moments and work. It gives me great pleasure and satisfaction to know that my followers respond positively and that so many of them are inspired by me and follow me faithfully. I’m truly grateful and I thank them.

What is your definition of luxury?

Luxury to me is being able to do whatever I want to, be wherever I wish to, at any given time.

How would you describe your personal style?

I would say it’s a mix of avant-garde, glamorous and at the same time laid back.

What are your wardrobe essentials?

White shirts, cropped pants and tailored jackets.

Do you have a favourite designer?

There’s so many of them... I love Valentino’s romanticism, Carolina Herrera’s timeless elegance, Prada’s uniqueness, just to name a few.

What is the best style advice you have ever had?

You can be and wear anything you want, as long as you can carry it.

Who is your muse, your style icon?

I would place the inimitable Iris Apfel on top of my list.

What’s your advice for the perfect style?

Know yourself and dress for it.

What is your number one life motto you live by?

Live beautifully!

Reveal to us one secret for success.

Follow your instinct, work hard, never give up.

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I learn new things about myself every time I travel.

Every new destination I visit, I try to grab the essence of it

You travel a lot. How does travelling influence your work and what does it offer to you as a person?

As I mentioned before, travelling is a very eye-opening and enriching experience in every aspect. It’s probably the best way to learn without having to study. It opens a window to the way people, different from you, live, think and behave. I also learn about myself new things every time I travel. Every new destination I visit, I try to grab the essence of it.

The flavours, the aromas, the colours, the music, the architecture, the tradition, everything can become a source of inspiration. You will see a lot of influences from my travels in my collections. Intricate embroideries from Romania, elegant lines from France, Mediterranean stimuli from Italy, exotic colours from India.

How do you manage to combine work, social life, travelling and family?

These are all very important parts of me as a person. I wouldn’t be the same if one of these components was missing from my life. So, I guess, it comes naturally. Finding the perfect balance between everything is important. Not always easily attained, but it is possible.

What would you be if you hadn’t become a fashion designer?

Probably an actress.

S P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 5 3

advertorial

Zacharias Watches & Jewellery

The world’s most famous brands in one store Z.G.H Watches & Jewellery Ltd, a limited liability company, was established in Cyprus by its present managing director Mr Zacharias Charilaou in 1982 with its principal place in Limassol.

Mr Zacharias Charilaou set up his business by leasing a small shop for selling jewellery and certain Japanese watches (Seiko – Orient – Casio etc).

In 1985 the company expanded by obtaining its own private premises, namely a shop covering 460 sq.m in the tourist area of Limassol, at 33 Georgiou A’ Potamos Yermasoyia (Pecora Beach House) where the business is still located, after leaving the previously leased premises. The expansion of the company’s premises brought the natural expansion of its business; the circle of business of the company now involves the sale of a large number and variety of jewellery and watches, same as in 1979, but also the sale of watches of a wider variety than before. This includes brands like Omega, Longines, Raymond Weil, Gucci, Maurice, Lacroix, Zenith, Tag-Heuer, Rado, Dupont, and the sale of different brands of jewellery such as; Baraka, Fope, Luca Carati, Zancan, Miluna and Nimei.

Diamond stones are brought from International Gemological laboratories like GIA-HRD-IGI. It was

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a natural consequence that this expansion, as well as the upgrading and the renovation of the company’s premises, would bring an increase in the company’s clientele. Though consistently striving for a greater proficiency to meet and serve the needs of our clients we are equipped with the knowledge, dynamism and confidence to face the challenges of the future, our efforts have awarded

us with a rapid increase of our customer base.

Z.G.H Watches & Jewellery Ltd controls around 60% of the Limassol local market and 45% of its business consists of foreign clients mainly English, Germans and Russians.Our company is committed to continuing to provide a high standard of service aiming to satisfy all sorts of clients both Cypriots and foreign.

Z.G.H Watches & Jewellery Ltd 33 Georgiοu A’ Street Pecora Beach House, Limassol – Cyprus Tel: +357 25 323168 www.zachariaswatches.com

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fashion and more

Olympic Residence one stop shop

SHOPPING

at its best!

Right opposite the magnificent Limassol coastline, you can enjoy the luxurious hospitality of our premises here at Olympic Residence. We set the standard high for a luxury shopping destination as well. There’s nothing you are looking for that can’t be found just a step away. With a range of exclusively selected boutiques, shops and galleries situated in the Olympic Residence courtyard, representing some of the world’s most renowned fashion brands, artworks and home accessories on offer, we rightfully claim to be the city’s best high-end luxury shopping destination.

By Christina Tserkezi

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ParaSUERTE

TIFFANY

Among the first luxury boutiques in Cyprus and home to one of the most important brands worldwide, Tiffany boutique hosts the one and only Chanel corner in the island, amongst other renowned luxury brands. From Missoni and Melissa Odabash swimwear to Red Valentino everyday wear, Marchesa Notte evening dresses, Versace signature pieces, Karl Lagerfeld accessories and many more, Tiffany offers the most qualitative and unique shopping experience in a beautiful environment of fashion and style. The Chanel Corner, a unique establishment in Cyprus, has all the fashion requirements that can be found in a namesake boutique worldwide. The Chanel collections of bags, shoes and accessories are constantly renewed and brought up to date with items presented in every Chanel boutique of all major fashion capitals in the world.

This boutique is the go-to place for parents seeking sophisticated clothing for themselves and their young ones. Home to an exclusive selection of women’s, men’s and kids’ ready-to-wear clothing and accessories, from notable Italian and international designers, ParaSUERTE provides the perfect assortment for every style and taste. Search for La Martina, Just Cavalli, US Polo ASSN, Napapijri, Miss Miss, Marina Yachting, Barbour, Eskey, Imperfect, Colors of California and more.

PLANÈTE

Since opening its doors in 2004, Planète has been synonymous with outstanding quality and contemporary style. The boutique has proven its fashion expertise and successfully sells luxurious designer fashion for women and kids through a selection of ready-to-wear collections by international and European designers. Gina shoes, Joseph, Paul & Shark, Baby Dior, Monalisa, Blumarine, Stella McCartney, Philip Plein, Sonia Rykel, US Polo, Bikkembergs are some of the renowned brands represented at Planète. Stylish mums and kids will most certainly experience a warm and children-friendly shopping experience.

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FASHION AND MORE ONE STOP SHOP

MAX & CO

MAX& Co is a contemporary fashion brand born in Italy. Beautifully designed, carefully made and easy to wear, the brand’s clothing and accessories make the everyday extraordinary for stylish women everywhere.

A member of the Max Mara group, recognised throughout the world as the precursor of modern pret-à-porter fashion, Max & Co shares the same values for producing feminine clothing according to excellent industrial processes. From fine wool coats to playful evening dresses, to contemporary casual wear, shoes and accessories, there are many reasons to pay a visit to this newly-opened boutique.

New arrival

LUIGI LOVES LUISA

Luigi Loves Luisa is the ‘jewel’ of the leading fashion group in Cyprus and the region which was established back in 1933. The stores carry the widest variety of luxury brands in the country.

Luigi Loves Luisa offers cutting-edge fashion either from worldrenown or from young and talented designers, a wide range of the most appealing apparel, shoes and accessories for the most demanding men and women. The company has an iconic reputation, experience, expertise and set-up to offer only the finest in the market. The personal touch has never been more relevant. With an exciting portfolio of brands such as Pal Zileri,Tom Ford, Kiton, Brioni, Lanvin, Brunello Cucinelli, Marc Jacobs, Armani , Paul Smith, Sonia Rykiel, Hackett, 7 For All Mankind, North Sails ,J-Brand, L’Agence, Fusalp, Canada Goose Thakoon, Zadig et Voltaire, Corneliani, Givenchy, Michael Kors, Versace, Jacob Cohen, Rupert Sanderson, Santoni etc.

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GOLDEN GALLERY

BY KAPATAYS

3F GALLERY

Carefully curated decor is an important step in turning your house into a home and knowing what types of accessories to look for is a great place to start. 3F Gallery features over 50 world famous brands which are the main trendsetters in the marvellous world of luxury houseware. Porcelain dinnerware, crystal and silver flatware, handcrafted gifts, home décor accessories, and the timelessly elegant Villeroy & Boch stemware, dinnerware, cutlery and accessories offer a true taste of luxury through endless choices of pieces with a rich heritage.

If you’re looking for exquisite and authentic art, this is the place to be. Representing renowned artists, prestigious Golden Gallery by Kapatays specializes in buying and selling artworks, art valuation, art investment and consulting. With two galleries in Nicosia and Limassol, it brings to art lovers and collectors the greatest names of the Greek and Cypriot art scene.

Masterpieces from Dimitris Mytaras, Alecos Fassianos and Yiannis Gaitis are among the gallery’s most prominent offerings.

NESPRESSO

The world’s most loved addiction finds its place at this Nespresso shop. Nespresso offers high quality, easy to make espresso coffee machines for home and professional use and a wide range of flavours to choose from. The exclusive system of coffee capsules together with innovative machine technology enables Nespresso to capture all the character of a coffee and produce a genuine, high-quality espresso every time. Coffee lovers, you have found your paradise!

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MARKET

Global Blue and RCB Bank join forces on merchant solutions

Dynamic Currency Choice and Tax Free Shopping services in Cyprus

RCB Bank and Global Blue have entered into a strategic partnership offering Dynamic Currency Choice (DCC) and Tax Free Shopping services to their merchant partners in Cyprus for servicing their international shoppers.

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RCB Bank and Global Blue have entered into a strategic partnership offering Dynamic Currency Choice (DCC) and Tax Free Shopping services to their merchant partners in Cyprus for servicing their international shoppers.

This collaboration is the latest in a wide range of innovations being delivered by RCB Bank to better service the local Cyprus market, offering DCC in 20 key currencies that are most widely used in the market today, with the capability to reach up to 150.

Commenting on the development Harry Xenophontos, Head of Acquiring and Digital Payment Services, RCB Bank said: “We are proud to partner with a global leader like Global Blue on the expansion of our payment services range with innovative digital solutions for Merchants as we gain an opportunity to deliver services that are equivalent to those globally”. “With Global Blue we share a joint vision of servicing merchants as partners and helping with their own differentiation and growth,” Mr Xenophontos said.

Chrystalla Panayiotou, Managing Director Global Blue Cyprus said that “our partnership with the only acquirer Bank in Cyprus was a significant addition to our Worldwide Acquiring Partners network. RCB Bank’s innovative approach, tailor-made services to merchant partners as well as customer-centric approach is perfectly matched with that of Global

Blue’s service in excellence”. “Global Blue is excited to have such a partner and we look forward to expanding our cooperation in Cyprus and beyond,” Ms. Panayiotou said.

RCB Bank’s merchants will now be able to better service their international customers by offering them a simplified and cost efficient way to pay in their home currency, both for in-store or online shopping. In addition, the joint offer, which expands the merchant’s potential to 20 currencies, will lead to increased revenues.

Through its collaboration with Global Blue, RCB Bank can offer special benefits to its merchant network which include an effortless currency exchange that is seamless for merchants and their customers through the standard payment transaction flow, improving the payment experience.

RCB Bank merchants will benefit from Global Blue’s specialist training which has proven to be a success in over 28 countries and 87,000 merchants around the globe.

Finally for the first time merchants will be able to take advantage of a globally recognized brand to offer a well-established DCC solution with best rate guaranteed. Moving forward, Global Blue and RCB Bank are committed to continuously deliver innovative solutions dedicated to elevating their merchants’ performance.

Global Blue invented the concept of Tax Free Shopping almost 40 years ago and is now the worldwide industry leader, enhancing the Globe Shopper experience and creating value for retailers and partners through a range of products and services. www.globalblue.com/corporate/

RCB Bank Ltd was established on August 1st 1995, is one of the largest banks in Cyprus and among the European significant Banks, which are under the direct supervision of the European Central Bank through the SSM mechanism. The Bank operates branches in Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Pafos and Luxembourg. www.rcbcy.com

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beauty

Hair & Beauty salon at Olympic Residence With a relaxed environment and an experienced team of stylists, this intimate hair and beauty salon offers a range of styling, colour and treatment services HAIR STYLING Beginning each appointment with a personal consultation to better understand your styling needs, our experienced stylists are equipped with an outstanding knowledge of hair and today’s ever-changing trends. Whether you’re looking for a classic cut or a cutting-edge style, we will ensure that we create the perfect look for you.

TREATMENT COLOUR We offer a complete range of salon colouring services, including non-ammonia options. Our talented stylists have exceptional experience and can ensure a long-lasting colour that compliments each individual style.

The way our hair looks and behaves is extremely important and aside from a great haircut and colour, the best way to obtain and maintain a great look is to treat it with care. We offer a range of products and relaxing treatments designed for both hair and scalp concerns.

353, 28 October Str., Olympic Residence Towers Limassol, Cyprus 3107, tel. 25 247012 - hair@olympicresidence.com facebook @hairolympic

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WWW.TIMINIS.COM NICOSIA 22762346

LIMASSOL 25357373

LARNACA 24657605

PAPHOS 26946776

AYIA NAPA 23725999

profile

IRO KASKANI

A PIECE OF JEWELLERY IS A POWERFUL VEHICLE

for communicating our identity

S

ome years ago I used to believe: “My education and experience in architecture are guiding my creativity and my work is mostly determined by an interest to compose fine metals with alternative material and define new forms.” Later on, I concretised my thoughts stating: “Architecture is built environments, planned and designed to function as shelter or vessels of activities and thus it is fostering a physical relationship with the user, inhabitant or viewer. Jewellery takes this physical relationship further into intimacy by the change of scale and placement on the body. Through my work, I find it intriguing to explore ideas of space, scale and absence of symmetry, enabling me to combine precious metals with non-precious elements. Designing jewellery feels like investigating form, structure, and balance to derive a piece of art which will have an intimate physical relationship with the human body and will be completed only when it becomes part of the wearer’s experience and expression. A piece of jewellery is a powerful vehicle for communicating our identity.”

Recently I realised that my curiosity is the most powerful motivating factor behind my work. I’m curious to see things that I visualise becoming facts, to elaborate an idea, to experiment on a certain technique, to see how this or that material is treated, to investigate on how a vision can be a wearable object and yet to see how others perceive my work.

Iro Kaskani attended university in Florence, Italy, completing her studies in architecture at the Università degli studi di Firenze in 1994. She attended jewellery design courses and received training in goldsmithing at the Scuola professionale dalla Regione Toscana. She worked as an architect up until 2007 and also presented three personal exhibitions on contemporary jewellery in Cyprus.

Since 2008, she has fully dedicated herself to the art of jewellery-making.

She has participated in group exhibitions on contemporary jewellery in Cyprus, Greece, Germany, Denmark, Spain and China. She taught jewellery design in Cyprus at the Aigaia School of Fine and Applied Arts from 2006 to 2013.

Facebook: Iro Kaskani at the Space in between Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irokaskani/ Email: iro.kaskani@cytanet.com.cy Address: Katsoni, 4c, 1082, Agioi Omologites, Nicosia, Cyprus

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must visit

Petra tou Romiou (Birth Place of Aphodite), Paphos

CULTURE

on the island

Cyprus is a country with a long history of culture and cultural production. There has recently been a renaissance with new galleries, artist-run and alternative spaces opening in all major cities. When it comes to art and culture, the island of Cyprus has a lot to offer.

By Maria Efstathiou

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LIMASSOL Archaeological Sites The Ancient Kourion, one of the most important ancient kingdoms of the island, offers a lot to explore as finds from the various excavations may be viewed at the site. There, one may see the Greco-Roman theatre, the House of Eustolios - the main building, the baths, the remains of the Roman Agora and a Christian basilica.

Near the old harbour in the heart of the historical centre of the city of Limassol is situated the medieval Limassol Castle. According to tradition, this is where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre and crowned her Queen of England in 1191. Located 14 km west of Limassol is the 13th-century Kolossi Castle. This was initially the Grand Commandery of the Knights Templar.

The land around it was highly cultivated with sugarcane and vineyards, thereby resulting in the production of the Cypriot wine Commandaria (the name derives from the ‘Grand Commandery’).

Institutions Limassol Municipal Arts Centre is a newly inaugurated institution situated in the historic centre of the city.

As Limassol is the capital of contemporary dance, hosting the annual Contemporary Dance Platform every spring, the aforementioned institution embraces this characteristic of its city’s people and aims to highlight contemporary visual and performing arts. Found in the area of the Charoupomili (Carobmill) in the old part of the city, is the Evagoras and Kathleen Lanitis Foundation (www.lanitisfoundation.org) presenting a programme of periodical and thematic exhibitions. The Cyprus Theatre Museum (www.cyprustheatremuseum.com), apart from its research and archival goals, has the mandate to promote the history of Cypriot theatre. Rialto (www.rialto.interticket.com) - a theatre space in the vibrant heart of the city - additional to its programme of theatrical productions - hosts a number of noteworthy festivals year round.

St Lazarus church, Larnaca

Galleries and Art Spaces Collection Gallery (www.thecollectiongallery.eu) holds two venues on the island: The first to open was the one in Nicosia, with another place opening up in Limassol a few years later, aiming for a niche clientele/audience of collectors. The Island Club (www.the-island-club.com) is perhaps one of the most prominent spaces in Limassol, which opened in January 2018 and is run by the local internationally acclaimed artist Christodoulos PanS P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 6 9

MUST VISIT CULTURE ON THE ISLAND

ayiotou. Eins Gallery (99 522977) is planned to open in late spring 2018 and is expected to meet high expectations. Halcyon Gallery Cyprus (www.limassolmarina. com) - the latest addition to Halcyon Art International’s galleries in London, Mumbai and Shanghai - is located in the Limassol Marina. This platform representing a selection of renowned international artists is a world-class destination for art collectors and art lovers.

NICOSIA When in Nicosia, aim for the Walled City. This part of the city (as well as the areas directly around it) is packed with museums, galleries, art spaces and archaeological sites.

Faneromeni Square Faneromeni Square has a lot to keep a visitor busy. In these picturesque streets, one can find the best artsy presents to take back home at Phaneromenis 70 (www. phaneromenis70.org). This is an artist-run space which specialises in art-related products, with a concept and a thematic behind each production. Just across the square from Phaneromenis 70, stands Faneromeni Church, renowned for its architecture and its wooden carvings found in the interior. A three-minute walk from the church, a visitor can find the Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation (www.boccf.org). This houses some noteworthy collections including: The Museum of the History of Cypriot Coinage, the Museum of George and Nefeli Giabra Pierides Collection, the Manuscripts and Rare Book Collection, the Cyprus Map Collection and the Engravings, Old Photographs and Watercolours Collection. Along with these permanent displays, the foundation also presents temporary exhibitions of contemporary art (mainly from their Contemporary Cypriot Art Collection), as well as solo shows of Cypriot artists who have left their mark on the contemporary art scene.

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Medieval Castle, Limassol

On the other side of Faneromeni Church, at just a minute’s walk, is the Arablar mosque (also known as the church of Stavros tou Missirikou), a domical Byzantine type building of the 16th century. The Arablar mosque is a unique mixture of different architectural elements, characteristic of the Venetian occupation of Cyprus.

New Galleries and Art Spaces There is an array of new and youngish galleries and artist-run spaces inside walled Nicosia. isnotgallery (www.

Tombs of the Kings, Paphos

isnotgallery.com) is perhaps the oldest “new” gallery in this area, presenting a line of solo and group exhibitions of both local and international artists. Garage, Neoterismoi Toumazou, Thkio Ppaliesand Korai galleries have been running for the past few years and are committed to presenting unconventional works and shows, which are considered off-the-beaten-track. Garage (22 001508) is an artist-run space dedicated to providing a platform for the work of the younger generation of local artists and other local artists who are somewhat unorth-

odox.Neoterismoi Toumazou (www.neoterismoi.com) and Thkio Ppalies (www.thkioppalies.org) are artist-run spaces, the first one being initiated by the same collective that - amongst other artists - represented Cyprus in a previous edition of the Venice Biennale. And Korai (www.koraispace.com) aims at exploring new curatorial practices, applied at a local level. All these spaces bare a local twist, constituting them as must-sees.

To this list of freshly opened spaces, there is another addition in March 2018: Party Contemporary (www.

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MUST VISIT CULTURE ON THE ISLAND

Venetian Walls, Nicosia

partycontemporary.com), run again by two artists, one of whom formerly represented Cyprus at a Venice Biennale edition. ArtSeen (www.artseeneditions.com) is a conventional gallery, representing a number of Cypriot and international artists, providing editions of multiples in their shop. (note: Thkio Ppalies and Party Contemporary are situated in an area just outside the walled city, of an approximate 20-minute walk. ArtSeen is also situated outside the walled city). Within the walls, there are a number of cultural institutions. The Leventis Mu72 TO W E R S # 2

nicipal Museum of Nicosia (www.leventismuseum. org.cy) was awarded the European Museum of the Year Award in 1991. Its displays span from permanent collections - from the ancient times up to the British rule and Nicosia today, to thematic galleries, to periodical exhibitions. NiMAC (www.nimac.org.cy) is housed in the old powerhouse of the capital, which was awarded the Europa Nostra Award in 1994 and is a magnificent example of industrial architecture. One may see a number of thematic exhibitions there, taking a stance on

current geopolitical matters. CVAR (www.cvar.severis. org) showcases a collection of paintings, antique costumes and memorabilia related to Cyprus and its neighbours from Costas and Rita Severis private collection.

Point Centre for Contemporary Art (www.pointcentre. org), found a minute’s walk from Eleftheria Square, promotes a multi-disciplinary engagement in various fields of contemporary cultural production. Down the road from the latter, the A. G. Leventis Gallery (www.leventisgallery.org) showcases a number of permanent collections - the Paris collection, the Greek Collection and the Cyprus collection - and other temporary exhibitions.

One can also find a collection of Cypriot contemporary art at the State Gallery of Contemporary Art (but you have to be there early in the day, as it is not open late in the afternoons). The collection consists of some of the most ground-breaking local art. For a dose of archaeology make sure to visit the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia, which is oozing with antiquities from the Stone Age to the Roman Era. The latter has the most conclusive collection of Cypriot antiquities. And for the ones who enjoy Byzantine iconography, the Byzantine Museum is a good specimen of a comprehensive collection spanning almost 1,500 years.

Sites

Hala Sultan Tekke, Larnaca

As for the archaeological sites, Nicosia has plenty to offer. Similar to other Venetian sites, the Venetian Walls of Nicosia (also known as “The Walls”, built 1567–1570) bear characteristics of the era. Along the length of these circular walls, a number of sites can be found: Famagusta Gate, the Bairaktari Mosque and Paphos Gate. These can be viewed at a radius around the walled city. The house of Hadjiyioryakis Kornesios is an exquisite example of folkloric display, with a narrative to be walked through and explored. Make sure to see the hamam of the house, at the back, as it is of unique Ottoman architecture and characteristic of its kind.

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Medieval Castle, Paphos

LARNACA The Pierides Museum (24145375) in Larnaca offers an assemblage of archaeological antiquities for its visitors, paired with different exhibitions of contemporary artists and presentations. Overall, Larnaca offers a lot in archaeological sites with exemplary architecture, such as the Hala Sultan Tekke and the Mosque of Umm Haram by the city’s picturesque salt lake. Additionally, about four kilometres from the salt lake, a walk in the old city will bring you to the pedestrian roads and the late 9th-century architectural marvel of Saint Lazarus Church, which was built over Saint Lazarus’ tomb. At the far end of the Finikoudes promenade, one can find Larnaca Medieval Castle which was built in the Middle Ages and took its present form during the Ottoman rule.

endure immense beauty. The - originally built as a Byzantine fort - Paphos Medieval Castle, dates back to the 13th century. It is currently used for various cultural events. Away from the seafront, in Fabrica’s Cave, Japanese performance and installation artist Chiharu Shiota created an installation as part of a major exhibition which was part of the Pafos2017 European Capital of Culture. This is a walk-in installation changing with the passage of time, as the material (red thread) wears out with time.

In the same area is Tombs of the Kings - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - a set of unique and undamaged underground tombs of the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD. The Old Powerhouse is a municipal cultural centre, regularly hosting exhibitions and other cultural events.

PAPHOS On route to Paphos, one will come across Petra tou Romiou (Birth Place of Aphrodite). Do take a detour down to the beach, or even at one of the viewpoints overlooking the spot to catch the breath-taking view.

On the west side of Paphos, within a natural reserve lays the Loutra tis Aphrodites (Aphrodite Baths). From a mythological start point, this is one of the most magical places, with a fable saying that the one who bathes in the waters of the baths hidden in the local fauna will 74 TO W E R S # 2

AYIA NAPA When by the sea, go visit a museum dedicated to it. Thalassa Museum (www.thalassamuseum.org.cy) is dedicated to showcasing matters related to different themes of the sea. There is a replica of the Kyrenia II vessel - an exact copy of the ancient ship which brought to light a number of findings into how our Cypriot ancestors lived.

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Interview

DOXIA NIKIA President of the Cyprus International Business Association (CIBA)

CAPABILITY NOT GENDER

is the key

FOR TOP BUSINESSWOMAN

By Annie Charalambous

F

or the new president of the Cyprus International Business Association (CIBA), Doxia Nikia, leadership is all about capability and not gender, although women need to work harder to prove their ability.

She should know, being the first ever woman to head the only association representing the international business community in Cyprus.

“There are many women in Cyprus holding important positions, but as women, we always need to work harder to prove our competence,” said the Limassol-born director of D.D.Fidelity Associates Ltd. “Women and men have different leadership strengths and styles. Leadership, in my view, is capability and not gender,” added Doxia. She grew up in Australia

in an ordinary hardworking middle-class family with one brother. The mother-of-four, who is married to the founder and owner of Fidelity Associates Ltd Demetris Hadjivassiliou, has been on the board and involved with Limassol-based CIBA for many years.

That’s why she feels confident and comfortable enough with the association’s environment and challenges. “It is very well known to all of us that the International community contributes tremendously to our economy.

It is our task to make sure that all companies established or being established in Cyprus are well looked after and have the support they need for establishment and operations through Cyprus,” Doxia said. “It is therefore very important for the Association to have a voice which can be heard both by the members but S P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 77

DIXIA NIKIA CAPABILITY IS THE KEY

also within government. Members need to be looked after and feel safe,” she added. Doxia firmly believes that the continuing confidence in Cyprus’ political system, its sustained importance as a financial, trading, shipping and services centre, plus the quality of life offered, makes the Mediterranean island a top destination within the European Union.

When it comes to family and personal life, she admitted that sometimes it is hard to find a balance.

“I have a very demanding career, a family with four children and a very active personal life. No one spends one hundred per cent of their full potential on one activity, whether that is a woman or a man.”

“I think the most important thing, at least in my case, is that I have a very supportive and active husband who takes care of our business, enabling me to deal with all the multitasking functions of the day.”

Doxia, however, is fully aware that things happen, and that sometimes the kids are disappointed.

But the most important thing, she says, is to make them feel that whatever may be going on in your professional life you are always there for them. And still managing to cook dinner at night and hear about their day.

One thing for sure is that Doxia has no regrets in life.

“This is something I was taught as a child. Never regret or hang on to mistakes of the past. You learn, move on and become better.”

“If you lead with your heart you succeed. If not, then life will present a new opportunity.”

To relax, she loves reading books whenever she gets the chance, but she is not the type to read about the deep meaning of life.

Instead, she reads books that make her laugh and forget about the stress of the day.

As for travelling, she does enjoy it and her work takes her to all corners of the world. Asia is definitely her favourite destination. “We do a lot of sports and travelling with the children and enjoy nature and the sea very much.”

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If you lead with your heart you succeed. If not, then life will present a new opportunity.

ABOUT CIBA The Cyprus International Businesses Association was established in December 1992 as a registered not-forprofit company limited by guarantee.

It came to be because of the initiative of a number of expatriate business executives who had moved their international operations to Cyprus to benefit from the island’s strategic location.

They were also keen to take advantage of the island’s relaxed atmosphere and Mediterranean climate and its simple but competitive and effective tax regime.

Since then CIBA has been active as a non-governmental independent association, relying exclusively on membership fees and sponsorship income from the promotion of members through its website.

Doxia Nikia CAREER BACKGROUND Doxia started her professional career in the late 1990s as Head Cargo and Logistics Cocoordinator for Diplomatic and Foreign Military Missions in the Republic of Cyprus including overlooking major contracts such as Power Stations and Water Plants.

She then joined a private Corporate Services and fiduciary Company as managing director with directorships in a large number of companies worldwide.

She has also been a member of STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) as a registered trust and estate practitioner since September

2006. Doxia is also a member of the ITPA (International Tax Planning Association).

In addition, she has been a member of the Advanced Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS) since 2016, and a registered practitioner since 2011. D.D.Fidelity Associates Ltd holds directorships in a large number of companies in Europe, Asia and offshore jurisdictions and it is an expert structural and tax planner and corporate business administrator.

The company is also an approved business introducer for large banking institutions in Europe, the Middle East and in Asia.

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PROFILE

Insurance Underwriting Agencies

Your reliable partners

F

or the last 75 years, Prodromou & Makriyiannis Insurance Underwriting Agencies serve an esteemed clientele with respect and devotion. We offer a wide range of products and provide bespoke insurance solutions to our clients’ needs as these evolved over the years. Honesty, integrity and business ethics are at the heart of all aspects of our business functioning, part of our core philosophy includes quality of service and security for our clients. Constantinos Prodromou and Michael Makriyiannis who are heading the firm share the passion to excel as they grew up in this environment where both of their families had a long and established insurance history. Many of our clients have a long history of doing business with us and often this is passed on from one generation to the next one!

Prodromou & Makriyiannis insurance Underwriting Agencies & Consultants Ltd benefit from a wealth of experience and years of successful co-operations, focusing on quality of service combined with tried and tested security for their clients’ peace of mind. We have a wide spectrum of partnerships offering clients all the products they may need. Our insurance operations range from holding the Coverholder at Lloyd’s status, operating several Binding Authorities in different classes of business on behalf of Lloyd’s Managing Agents, to the appointment as agents of a number of other European

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Constantinos Prodromou Managing Director

Insurers and international brokers as well as retail brokers of local Insurers.

We offer insurance coverage ranging from simple policies for individual clients to complex solutions for commercial organisations.

Prodromou & Makriyiannis Insurance Underwriting Agencies & Consultants Ltd carries a wealth of experience and years of successful representation of international insurers and brokers in Cyprus, focusing on high quality service combined with top security for clients. P&M was formed through the merger of the operations of PUA (Prodromou Underwriting Agency) – established in 1969 and one of the first agencies to hold Binding Authorities from Lloyd’s – with JMS (John Makriyiannis Insurance Agency), es-

Michael Makriyiannis General Manager

tablished in the late 1940’s as a partnership (Company Registered in 1976) to represent the Gresham of the Legal & General group and Ecclesiastical Insurance. PUA and JMS joined forces in 2008 forming Prodromou & Makriyiannis, one of the largest insurance agency firms in Cyprus, bringing together 75 solid years of dedicated service to the industry, servicing both our clients and the insurers we represent through meticulous underwriting and strong management.

We offer insurance cover ranging from simple private lines and commercial insurance products (motor, property, accident, medical, liability, professional indemnity, D&O, marine, aviation) to customised insurance solutions and risk management.

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Insurance services

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GasanMamo is the second largest insurer in Malta supported by some of the world’s largest and strongest reinsurers. Prodromou & Makiyiannis Insurance is also the Network Partner of Willis, one of the biggest insurance brokers in the world, servicing their international accounts in Cyprus. Willis Towers Watson (NASDAQ: WLTW ) is a leading global advisory, broking and solutions company that helps clients around the world unlock potential turning risk into a path for growth. With roots dating to 1828, WTW has 40,000 employees serving more than 140 countries designing delivering solutions that manage risk, optimise benefits, cultivate talent, and protect and strengthen institutions and individuals.

Prodromou & Makriyiannis Insurance has been AVUS Correspondent for Cyprus during the last 20 years. AVUS is an international claims handling company based in Vienna Austria with

We offer a comprehensive range of insurance services in Cyprus, the United Kingdom and other international markets we are licenced to operate. Insurance needs of both personal and business nature are addressed with professionalism and at attractive rates.

Our list of insurance services includes: • Property insurance • Motor insurance • Marine cargo insurance • Casualty insurance • Travel insurance • Medical insurance • Professional liability insurance • Contractors all risks • Personal accident insurance • All risks insurance • Aviation insurance • Life insurance • Risk analysis and claim handling

offices worldwide.

www.pminsurancebrokers.com Head & Sales Office – Cyprus The Riverside Forum, Ground Floor, 2A Ioanninon & Cheilonos Streets, 1101 Nicosia Tel: +357 22 353625 Fax: +357 22 353516 Email: info@pminsurancebrokers.com Contact: Michael Makriyiannis, Constantinos Prodromou

London Branch – UK 8-11 Crescent, London EC3N 2LY Tel: (0) 207 480 1098 Fax: (0) 207 480 1277 Contact: Constantinos Prodromou Email: uk@pminsurancebrokers.com General enquiries Email: ukinfo@pminsurancebrokers.com S P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 81

motor

By Petros Soutzis

MASERATI LEVANTE

The Maserati of SUVs The adoption of the Twin Turbo V8 engine brings the Levante on top of its class in terms of outright performance, driving dynamics and exclusivity. Alongside the V8 campaign, the entire MY19 range has inherited new contents which enhance its “Gran Turismo” character.

T

he design concept of the Levante combines coupé lines with interior space for five people and exceptional aerodynamic efficiency.

The Maserati of SUVs is instantly recognizable from a distance, thanks to its imposing grille, which was inspired by the sensational Alfieri concept, but also pays homage to historic Maserati cars like the Tipo 60 Birdcage.

Complementing the technical sophistication and inspired aerodynamic design is an electric Air Shutter in the front grille.

The interior design of the Levante is focused either on luxury or sportiness, respectively in the GranLusso and 8 2 TO W E R S # 2

GranSport trims. The spacious cabin blends innovative solutions, such as the state-of-the-art infotainment system, with precious materials like the newly introduced fullgrain Pieno Fiore natural leather. The infotainment system includes a high-resolution 8.4-inch multi-touch screen and a user-friendly rotary knob in the central console, a high-quality forged aluminium component offering intuitive control of audio volume and other functions.

Maserati Touch Control Plus (MTC+) is a highly responsive interface unit that works like a tablet, recognising drag, scroll, swipe and rotate gestures. The system includes radio and Bluetooth and supports satellite navigation. In the

engine department, Maserati installed an upgraded version of its powerful Twin Turbo V8 engine under the bonnet of the Levante to deliver two of the fastest SUVs ever built.

It is for the first time that Maserati mates the mighty Twin Turbo V8 with its Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system.

The V8 engine is an evolution of the power unit fitted in the flagship Quattroporte GTS. It maintains the same 3.8-litre capacity and the V900 architecture but has been re-engineered and significantly upgraded to deliver appreciably higher power output, from 550hp in the Levante GTS to 590hp in the Levante Trofeo.

Peak torque has climbed to 730 Nm at 2,250 to 5,000 rpm on both versions. The latest-generation Euro 6c-compliant V6 engine (350hp to 430hp) engines are powerful, exciting to drive and eco-friendly, thanks to the Auto Start&Stop function.

The high-efficiency Maserati units feature low-inertia parallel twin turbos, double continuous cam phasers for each cylinder head and high-pressure (200 bar) fuel injection.

Maximum torque is available well below 2000 rpm ensuring superb day-to-day drivability. There will also be a 275hp 3.0 litre V6 turbodiesel available.

The Levante is standard equipped with a state-of-the-art Air Spring suspension. The system is a closed air supply concept, comprising four independent air springs, each with a level sensor, two reservoirs mounted on a rear suspension cradle, a compressor with valve block and the ECU that is integrated with the Skyhook damper management. Apart from the obvious benefits, such as the improvement of comfort and active safety, the air suspension contributes to the reduction of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, thanks to the lowering of the car and the reduced aerodynamic drag at medium to high speeds.

FLC Modena Automobile Ltd 04, Sotiriou Tofini Street, Ayiou Athanasiou Avenue, 4102 Limassol www.maserati.com - info@maseratΚcy com Tel.: (+357) 25 020 010 S P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 8 81 3

Μotor

THE NEW PORSCHE 911

MORE POWERFUL, FASTER, DIGITAL Over the years, many books have been written about the Porsche 911.

Yet hardly anyone has been able to truly get a firm grip on the three magic numbers of sports car construction.

The Porsche 911 is now entering the eighth generation.

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t continues to set the standard when it comes to exclusive sportiness. Unmistakably committed to the Porsche design DNA, a much more muscular look, and modern interior.

Intelligent control and chassis elements, as well as innovative assistance systems, combine the masterfully uncompromising dynamism. Additional highlights include the new assistance systems, including Porsche Wet mode to make driving on wet roads even safer, and Night Vision Assist with a thermal imaging camera, as

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well as comprehensive connectivity – which now also uses swarm intelligence.

The 911’s features are rounded off by three exclusive digital offerings: the Porsche Road Trip app for extraordinary tours, the Porsche 360+ personal assistant, and the web-based Porsche Impact emissions calculator for neutralising your individual carbon footprint.

The turbocharged flat-six engine of the 911 Carrera S and 911 Carrera 4S now produces 450 PS. This corresponds to an increase of 30 PS compared

with the previous model. Both 911 models beat the four-second mark for acceleration from zero to 100 km/h: the rear-wheel-drive CoupĂŠ needs 3.7 seconds and the 911 Carrera 4S with all-wheel drive just 3.6 seconds. This advantage is increased by a further 0.2 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. The top speeds are now 308 km/h (911 Carrera S) and 306 km/h for the all-wheel-drive version.

The fuel consumption (NEDC-correlated) of the 911 Carrera S is 8.9 l/100 km, while the 911 Carrera 4 S records this figure as 9.0 l/100 km.

The exterior design is completely new and emphasises the leap in performance for the 911 type 992. Significantly wider wheel housings arch over the 20-inch front wheels and 21-inch rear wheels. The rear end is now the same width across all models, highlighting the slimline centre section.

At the front, the body is 45 mm wider. The rear is dominated on all models by the significantly wider, variable-position rear spoiler and the seamless, elegant light bar.

The completely new interior is characterised by the clear and straight lines of the dashboard with recessed instruments. The centre screen of the PCM is now 10.9 inches and can be operated quickly and without distraction thanks to the new architecture.

Located underneath this there is a compact switch unit with five buttons for direct access to important vehicle functions.

In terms of digitalisation, the 911 takes the next step into the future with permanent connectivity as well as new functions and services. The standard PCM features include online navigation based on swarm data as well as Porsche Connect Plus.

In a world first, Porsche has developed Wet mode, included as standard. This function detects water on the road, preconditions the control systems accordingly and warns the driver, who can then set up the vehicle for a particular emphasis on safety, by simply pushing a button or using the mode switch on the steering wheel (Sport Chrono Package).

Μotor

THE SUCCESS OF THE AUDI BRAND

FROM QUATTRO TO e-TRON Audi positions itself as the sportiest manufacturer in the premium segment and has a perfect basis to do so: motorsport.

Sportiness, advanced technology and emotive design are the basis for the success of the Audi brand. The motorsport history of AUDI AG began with the Audi quattro.

A

fter Audi had turned rally racing upside down between 1982 and 1984 with dominant victories and two manufacturers’ and two drivers’ titles it stormed up Pikes Peak (USA) with the Sport quattro in record time on three successive occasions, Audi made quattro drive fit for circuit racing as well: initially with the Audi 200 quattro and the Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO in the United States, in 1990 and 1991 with two championship titles for the Audi V8 quattro in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM).

In 1996, the Audi A4 quattro won championship titles in seven countries. After the dominant quattro drive was banned from touring car racing, Audi switched to sports prototypes and underpinned its slogan “Vorsprung Durch Technik” in this motorsport category for 18 years as well.

On making its debut at Le Mans, the toughest endurance race in the world, Audi, in 1999, immediately managed the leap onto the podium, in position three.

In the following years, the Audi R8 was in a class of its own. The R8 secured its spot in motorsport history 8 6 TO W E R S # 2

with a total of 63 victories in 80 sports car races with 13 total wins in the 24hour of Le Man’s until 2014 with TDI technology taking centre stage.

Following Laurent Aiello’s victory with the Abt Audi TT-R in 2002, Audi returned to the DTM with a factory-backed commitment in 2004 and instantly won the title with Mattias Ekström .

In 2007, the Swede triumphed again, followed by Timo Scheider in 2008 and 2009 – making Audi the first and so far only automobile manufacturer in DTM history to have managed a title hat-trick.

Martin Tomczyk completed the success story of the Audi A4 DTM in the 2011 season with another title win. In 2013, Mike Rockenfeller in the Audi RS 5 DTM clinched DTM title number nine for Audi. Rene Rast caused a sensation in 2018 when he clinched another title for Audi in his rookie year.

The drivers’ and manufacturers’ titles won with the hybrid sports car in the 2012 and 2013 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) complete the track record in Audi’s sports car era that ended in 2016.

The R8 LMS in 2009 has won the 24 Hours at Spa and, even twice, the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, plus achieved other victories and championship titles.

Since 2017, the Audi RS 3 LMS designed for the TCR touring car category has complemented the range down to the entry level. In the 2017/2018 season, Audi was the first German automobile manufacturer on the Formula E grid.

S P R I N G - S U M M E R 2 019 87

id

Towers

THE OLYMPIC RESIDENCE’S EXCLUSIVE MAGAZINE Owner Towers Condo Services Ltd, Olympic Residence Towers www.olympicrentals.com | tel. 25 247000 ____ Publishers ALFA DIMIOURGIKI www.alfa.com.cy | info@alfa.com.cy | tel. 22 515195 ΜC DIGITAL MEDIA www.mcmedia.com.cy ___ Marketing & Advertising executive Despina Efstathiou Editorial team Charlie Charalambous (Chief Editor), Annie Charalambous, Melissa Hekkers, Evelyn Matisse, Kleanthis Kleanthous, Christina Skordi, Petros Soutzis Photography Harris Kyprianou (cover), Demetris Pastellas, istock.com Design ROTA EKDOTIKI Photo editing NOT SO BIG FISH PRODUCTIONS Printing PROTEAS PRESS ISSN 2547-9075 (PRINT) - ISSN 2547-9083 (ONLINE)

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