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GrapevineCyprus.com

May 2016

Fi F rs R M t F EE on r th ida ly y

a window on your world

© Grapevine • May 2016

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Upfront May is my favourite month of the year here in Cyprus, not too hot and not too cold. There are beautiful flowering trees and shrubs everywhere and lots of interesting birds passing by our shores or coming to spend their summer here.

The donkey on this month’s cover is from the Donkey Sanctuary over in Pano Kivides, which is in the Limassol district. Although they are no longer open to the public they still need your help which you can do by donations or by adopting a donkey. Go to donkeysanctuarycyprus.org for more details.

If you need to make regular or one-off transfers of money between banks and countries, check out the TorFX article on page 5, then go to the GrapevineCyprus.com and check out the TorFX currency converter on our download issues page or the links page. They make moving money around fast and simple.

Cyprus Donkey at Rest Photographed by the Cyprus Donkey Sanctuary

Now the weather is set fair there are plenty of things to do to get you out of the house. Many of the clubs and societies are opening up again after the winter and there are lots of fairs and fetes to attend.

If it’s music you are after May is certainly the month for you whether it’s military bands, Shakespeare, classical guitar, music legends, new voices or chamber music there is definitely something for everyone this month, so check out our pages.

Back next month

Full Moon This Month May 21st

Next Issue Friday, 3rd June

Catch up online www.grapevinecyprus .com

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With thanks to all our advertisers and contributors for the articles / photos / ads that makes Grapevine the leader of the pack - we aim to stay leader and will continue to innovate and change to make sure our readers and advertisers are getting the best service on the island

© Grapevine • May 2016

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Should We Stay or Should We Go

by Barbara Strain

The Big Brexit Debate has had its moments, already, and there will be more to come. The Labour Party and the Scottish Nationalist Party are in favour of staying in the EU, although they seem to have been fairly reticent to make much known of their campaign, to date. UKIP are for out, LibDebs to stay in. Greens are sort of in.

The government is also pro-EU, although many party members, including MPs and up to Cabinet Ministers, have opted to vote leave.

Boris Johnson is for leaving, Jeremy Corbin claims he wants to stay. Barak Obama hopes Britain remains in, as does the whole nation of Australia – according to its government.

Daily there are reports from businessmen, economists, the farming community and the man in the street. Some are for, some adamantly. Others are against, also sometimes steadfastly.

Where do you stand? Do you have the right to vote in the referendum? If you have been on a UK electoral roll in the last 15 years you can register by 7th June to be eligible for the Referendum.

Of course, nobody knows yet just what the effect would be. There’s not even any certainty about how long negotiations for a Brexit would take. There’s a two year timescale in the Treaty, but it’s likely that – subject to the other 27 states agreement – there could be an extension to that.

Just what effect could there be? Well, from one perspective, we may just return to the situation that existed before Cyprus joined the EU. Unfortunately, some of the conditions for Brits living or working here were negotiated between the former colonial power and a Commonwealth member. There’s no reason to suppose Cyprus would offer us any better terms than, say, Greece or France.

Personally, I doubt our pensions would be affected. That means we would continue with whatever entitlement we already have, with no restriction of the increases in basic pension being paid to us. But that’s only a guess. It is, something that is totally within the remit of the UK government.

Other matters, residence, working rights and health care cover are entirely different. Cyprus’ existing and proposed National Health system is already under pressure, so it would be logical to exclude ageing non-EU residents from entitlement. This would have to be balanced by whether or not the Cyprus Government thinks we add sufficiently to the island’s economy.

Would an exodus of British retirees adversely affect the economy? Maybe.

Another question comes in the situation regarding residence. Most retirees have permanent residence papers (yellow slip). Would these become invalid?

Would we be back to the long queues for annual renewal of residence papers?

Would we have to prove we have private medical insurance or that we have a certain level of income?

To quote Donald Rumsfelt, ‘There are known knowns. These are things we know that we know. There are known unknowns. That is to say, there are things that we know we don’t know. But there are also unknown unknowns.

There are things we don’t know we don’t know’. Or, to misquote Clash: Should we stay or should we go now?

If we go there may be trouble An’ if we stay it may be double 4

© Grapevine • May 2016

Lyceum Productions are delighted to bring the world-famous, pop legend, Tony Christie to Cyprus.

The veteran star said he had never been to Cyprus and was looking forward to his first ever visit.

“You will see aspects from my days in the sixties when I was in singing groups, right the way through my big catalogue – my hit records, album tracks. It is a varied programme, “ he added.

Tony first came into the limelight in 1971 having no fewer than 3 top 20 hits in that year including “Las Vegas”, “What I did for Maria” and of course the now iconic, “Is This the Way to Amarillo?” These hits were followed with a whole string of successful singles and albums including the haunting melody of, “Avenues & Alleyways” which proved so popular it was chosen to become the theme tune for the television series, “The Protectors”.

Supporting Tony Christie will be the hilarious Paul Burling. Coming to the public’s attention in 2005 as a finalist in Britain’s got Talent.As well as Paul there will be performances by a local choir and the whole evening will be hosted by Lyceum’s own Eric Potts. With exceptional high standards of lighting, sound and production values this will be a night of laughter, song and nostalgia not to be missed!

To book tickets visit: www.tickethour.com.cy or call 7777 7040.

Tony Christie & His Band 10th May – Pissouri Amphitheatre 11th May – Coral Beach Resort, Paphos 12th May – Kourion Amphitheatre 14th May – Paralimni Municipal Amphitheatre

t er dv A 13 e e se pag lso n A o

As to what the effect will be on those of us who are British citizens living overseas, there is little information. There was some small news coverage that tens of thousands of UK citizens would return to the UK in the event of a Brexit, based largely on the fact that they may not be eligible for health care in their adopted EU country once the UK ceases to be a member. There is also speculation about the payment of UK state pensions in that event.

Music Legend, Tony Christie Coming To Cyprus

Save Money on Your Currency Transfers with TorFX If you’re not careful, sending money abroad can be a bit like transporting water in a cracked bucket; some of it gets lost along the way. Getting a poor exchange rate or having to pay fees for transferring funds can shrink the final sum you receive. Getting less for your money can quickly add up to a significant amount when you transfer money to Cyprus on a regular basis or have to send a large sum of money overseas.

But could looking into your options help you get a better return?

What are your Currency Transfer Options?

Large financial institutions like banks and currency brokers buy their currency from the wholesale interbank market, but the margins they add on for resale in the consumer market can differ considerably. Banks, for example, can sometimes add on wider margins than dedicated currency brokers.

A leading broker also employs currency specialists to offer customers support and expert guidance relating to exchange rate movements and transfer options. They can also provide you with regular market updates that help you to understand currency fluctuations and plan your transfer effectively.

Currencies fluctuate in value on a second-by-second basis, but with the advanced level of service offered by a currency broker you can navigate the volatile markets and protect yourself from poor market conditions or potential dips in the exchange rate you’re targeting.

As well as competitive rates and an attentive service, brokers can offer foreign exchange services you won’t usually be able to get through your bank, like Forward Contracts. If you were planning to purchase something large, like a property or a car, and needed to send a large sum overseas to fund the purchase, a ‘forward contract’ can prove particularly useful. As a riskmanagement tool, a forward contract allows you to fix an exchange rate for up to two years, meaning you can budget effectively for a future transfer and don’t need to worry that your transfer will be effected by negative market movements.

Other services currency brokers are able to offer include Regular Overseas Payments schemes (so you can set up automated, cost-effective regular transfers), Limit Orders and Stop Loss Orders. With Limit and Stop Loss Orders you can keep your currency transfer within a certain range by setting a maximum and/or minimum rate you’d be happy to make a transfer at.

Why Choose TorFX for Currency Exchange?

As an FCA-regulated currency broker with award-winning customer service, TorFX offers you a secure, simple and fast way to transfer money abroad.

With over ten years of experience, TorFX can handle everything from oneoff transfers to regular overseas payments, providing you with a dedicated account manager to help make the whole process straightforward.

TorFX also offers highly competitive exchange rates, complete with a bestrate guarantee, and doesn’t charge transfer fees. Banks, on the other hand, can charge up to £30 per transaction, which quickly adds up if you are making regular transfers.

The company operates segregated client accounts for fund security and has the highest credit rating with Dun & Bradstreet.

Getting the best possible exchange rate helps you make your money go further. When it comes to large sums, small differences in an exchange rate can equate to a saving of thousands of Pounds, but you can still see a notable difference on smaller transfers.

TorFX can help with regular overseas payments too, automating the process and still securing you a competitive rate. Simply let them know the amount of currency to transfer, the destination bank account, and the date you’d like the transfer to be made and TorFX will do the rest.

If you need to make currency transfers to or from Cyprus, talk through your options with an industry expert and see if you could save time and money.

There is a direct link to TorFX on Grapevine’s Web Page... Go to GrapevineCyprus.com, then either the Download Issues page or the Links page, try the currency converter and follow the links.

© Grapevine • May 2016

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Revolution of the Mind Series: White/Blank Protest Vote

By Andreas C Chrysafis

The battle for the May 2016 parliamentary elections in Cyprus is in full swing and sabres crisscrossing between rival groups are rattling like never before. On the other hand people are in a sombre mood with electoral fatigue, apathy and a feeling of betrayal by the political establishment implicated in financial scandals, institutional corruption and banking fraud in giant proportions.

Electioneering and spin by the seasoned-old clan and a new breed of young aspiring politicians promise that if elected, they will always perform with transparency and honesty. Ambitious objectives indeed especially for a country ruled by kakistocracy in a pseudo-democracy in which unworthy politicians are selected for power and protected by political immunity!

The recent revelations in the Panama Papers reveal how corporations including government officials worldwide once considered pillars of society, are now exposed for pilfering millions from the state in back handers, tax evasion and syphoned in offshore tax havens. Cyprus has also been named as one of those countries offering dubious services for such activities.

In Cyprus, the current mood of voter mistrust against the system aggravated by the revelation of scandalous corruption cases reaffirms people’s opinion not to trust politicians. Yet, come Election Day many will exercise their civic duty and cast a vote to sustain the status quo for another five years. That’s the real problem!

Cypriots are well convinced not to question the wisdom of the political party system and like loyal citizens go with the flow. Whether they like it or not, they are condemned to tolerating an electoral system that has failed them for so many years.

Deprived of horizontal voting, people are obliged to vote for the almighty party and the outcome of that is the continuation of the current system. In the worst scenario, most would choose to abstain rather than vote for unworthy political parties they no longer trust to serve their best interests.

There are over 150 candidates on the campaign 6 © Grapevine • May 2016

trail running under the banner of various political parties or as “independent” seeking to win a place in the 56-member chamber of the parliament.

There are no guarantees that those elected will actually make any difference or improve the current political system - Philosopher Rulers they are not, but disciples of The Party they are!

1. Casting a white/blank protest vote, citizens exercise their civic duty as active voters;

The largest unofficial political party in Cyprus today, it’s made up of the 340.000 (57%) abstention voters who did not cast a vote at the last elections. This is a phenomenon and such a powerful group of disenfranchised citizens cannot be ignored; yet they simply don’t exist in the election process!

3. It enhances the rights of the people and strengthens the principle of democracy by eliminating the marginalization of a vast sector of citizens from the electoral process;

Irrespective of political misgivings, there are valid reasons that radical changes are needed in the electoral system to recognize the protest vote as an integral part of elections. For years, the message of abstention voters has been slandered as apathy but that is totally wrong. Abstention protest voters cannot be linked with real apathetic voters, as all the parties would like to make people believe.

Voters do not abstain without a reason or because they are lazy or they don’t care as some would claim; they abstain because they have lost faith in a system that has failed their expectations. So it is not the electorate that behaves irresponsibly but the political parties that refuse to recognize their own misgivings.

The “white/blank” vote represents a massive block of citizens and must be added as an integral part of democracy and not dumped onto a rubbish heap. It offers people another choice and a mechanism to stop the growth of elected dictatorship coordinated by established political parties.

If not recognized, marginalized citizens can be influenced by nationalistic slogans and personalities such as the rise of US-billionaire Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again”.

His radical message tickles people’s ears and has motivated the white/blank disenfranchised voters back to the ballot box in millions and in his favour.

Abstention votes can be interpreted in two ways; firstly, as a message of protest against unpopular policies of a government or political parties that no longer represent them; and secondly, they describe their feelings of helplessness but also disappointment that no matter how they vote or who gets elected things remain the same.

Rather than not vote at all, the introduction of a “white/blank” vote in the electoral process provides the final segment of people’s democratic rights. At present, abstention figures have no influence at all but casting a «white/blank» vote in a ballot box cannot be ignored or discarded into the bin. They have to be counted as a protest vote. Unfortunately today, white or blank votes have no influence on the election procedure and that’s precisely what needs to be changed; to make those votes count!

There are valid and good reasons why “white/ blank” votes are as important as all other votes cast for one political party or another:

2. A white/blank vote reflects the mood of the electorate especially by those objecting in the way the government and politicians handle the affairs of the nation;

4. An overall majority of white/blank protest votes offers a democratic right to a call of “no confidence” in government, parliament or the political system; 5. It defines the real figures of each politicalparty influence; 6. The sanctioning of a white/blank protest vote encourages ballot participation and reduces abstentions; 7. It provides an alternative for active citizenship in the affairs of the nation without the demand to be a member of a specific political party; 8. It enhances the democratic principle in citizens’ direct involvement and reduces the possibilities of minority-governance through political party temporary coalition deals; 9. Recognition of the protest votes enables political parties to move forward; 10. A white/blank vote acts - and can be used - as a powerful “people’s veto” against bad government policy.

Fifty-seven percent or 340.000 abstention voters in Cyprus cannot all be wrong and certainly those figures cannot be swept under the carpet as if they do not exist or don’t matter in the electoral process. If so, democracy is also questionable!

When a “white/blank” vote is incorporated into the electoral voting system then we can be assured that true democracy will start to flourish in the interest of the nation. But for that to happen, people need a Revolution of the Mind to demand a fair voting system that allows the opinion of all citizens count; a protest white vote, it’s one them!

Then, we will smell the sweet scent of a true democracy in action.

There are ways and means to do that but unfortunately not the will. Not to vote it’s certainly not the answer.

Meanwhile, under the current mood, the abstention voters at next month’s parliamentary elections will be repeated again - if not in greater numbers. This should seriously concern the government and the country at large. www.facebook.com/ACChrysafisAuthor www.facebook.com/ACChrysafisArtGallery

Shakespeare in Cyprus I doubt when William Shakespeare, at the grand old age of 52, breathed his last in April 1616 he had any inkling that his plays would still be performed over 400 years later.

Today, his “comedies, histories, and tragedies” are staged in theatres around the world and streamed for global audiences to enjoy. This anniversary year also sees the 55th consecutive production of one of his plays at the spectacular Ancient Curium Theatre.

The very first was a performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in 1962 which raised the princely sum of CY£1625 for charity. In those early days, Shakespeare at Curium was organised on behalf of “The Limassol Committee for Chest Diseases” with the indefatigable Hon. Secretary Maroula Zenonos at the helm.

“Twelfth Night” in 1974 took place two weeks before the troubles but the approaching Gulf War 1 threatened the 1991 production of “A Winter’s Tale”. The event was saved by the Nicosia based ACT (Anglo-Cypriot Theatre) Group’s taking over the reins.

Occasional mishaps do occur during performances, the most alarming for the actors being the large and frightening insects that are attracted to the bright lights. Once they had buzzed around the hot lamps they had the tendency to collapse at the feet (or in the hair) of a particularly sensitive actor.

A large audience enjoying Twelfth Night in 1980

power. It also happened that the owner was a member of the audience that night watching the aptly named “The Tempest”.

In recent years, Curium at Shakespeare has been organised by “The Performing Arts for Cyprus Charities”. With changes in currency and values it is difficult to put an exact sum on the amount raised for local Cyprus charities but the figure must be in excess of €1m.

This year is the 23rd in the Members of the canon with the first Curium The cast of The Merry Wives of Windsor in 2015 audience can performance of “All’s occasionally be taken Well That’s Ends Well”, a ill and, in 1982, beguiling fairy tale of love during “Anthony and and war: a girl hopelessly in Cleopatra” a lady had love with a young man who to be evacuated using longs for freedom. Helena the ornate stretcher is gifted, beautiful and in intended to carry the love. In love with Bertram, dead body of Mark a young man who yearns for Anthony. With the adventure and would rather dramatic scene fast become a soldier for hire approaching there than be tied in marriage to was no sign of the this remarkable woman. stretcher’s being Heartbroken, she abandons returned. With all hope until fate throws the actor weighing them together once more over 15 stone the and she decides she must number of possible take action if she is finally to improvisations was limited. Luckily, the gods smiled on the panicking Stage find happiness in Shakespeare’s touching romance.

Manager and, two minutes before the entrance, the stretcher was returned.

Performances are on Friday 17th, Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th June 2016 One actor playing Prospero was somewhat disconcerted during one of his at the Ancient Curium Theatre near to Episkopi…….Adults €15 and €5 for long speeches that he had “lost his audience”. In fact, all eyes were watching students. the distress flares fired from a yacht that was drifting towards the beach. The You can book your tickets now using……..boxoffice@ scene was further illuminated by a number of police vehicles careering across shakespeareatcurium.com the sand.

The telephone booking hotline, which opens on May 1st, is 99 990535.

It turned out to be a new yacht (manned by a delivery crew) that had lost

© Grapevine • May 2016

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Selection of Events in May and June St Barnabas Church Limassol Bumper Table Top Sale at St Barnabas on the 7th May.

Crooners & Diva’s Night’ Michael Antoniou and Simone Swift present ‘Crooners & Diva’s Night’ at Pentaras restaurant Friday 3rd of June, Vegas style! Cost per ticket is €22, this includes a three PAWS Dog Shelter course buffet; a contribution from ticket sales will go to the Alzheimer’s Association Fun, family open day at PAWS Dog Shelter, Acheleia, Paphos, 99683775. Saturday, Charity. For tickets please call : Michael - 99 854 375, or Simone - 96 368 609 or 7th May, 10.00-15.00. Meet our dogs and volunteers. Enjoy stalls, music, competitions, Pentaras Restaurant - 99 416 224 dog grooming and refreshments.

Charity Summer Dance Party Concert Masquerade Ball with Dominic Holmes. Moni Outdoor Theatre, Moni Village Limassol. Saturday 4 at Kamares Club with Melanie Ballard and her Showgirls on Saturday, May 14th.

June 7.30pm. Tickets: €29 including food and drinks. Ticket Hotline - Tel: 96885478 Buffet and entertainment €22. Tickets available at Kamares Reception 26652277. or 99269016. In aid of PASYKAF – The Cyprus Association of Cancer Patients and Tala Monastery Cat Park Friends. www.pasykaf.org. The fantastic entertainer, Dominic Holmes is holding Celebrate . Here comes summer carnival on Saturday 14th May at the Agios Nefoytos a lively Summer Dance Party Concert in aid of PASYKAF in the Moni Outdoor Theatre on Saturday 4th June 2016. Food at 7.30pm, Show Starts at 8pm. A great Monastery café Tala . Dancers singers fashion show many stalls food drink games prizes starts 10.30. till 3.30 and all FREE Why not complete your day and visit the cat FUN night singing and dancing under the stars. Ticket Entrance Only. Tickets are park and see the cats and kittens plus now wheelchair and disabled friendly .To book a €29, which includes your food and drink all night. (Tunstall’s Hog Roast, Crackling & Chips. Ice Cold Keo Beer & Alla Spina’s Ice Cold Prosecco on Draft). PLEASE stall Tel Lynda on 99841142 BRING YOUR OWN GLASS. For those of you that do not know Dominic, you International Pharos Chamber Music Festival can hear him sing on the 4 page website on the link below. There is also more Since its inception sixteen years ago the Pharos Chamber Music Festival has established information and location map of the venue, which has now been upgraded with 4 itself one of Europe’s preeminent music festivals, garnering enthusiastic acclaim from toilets downstairs and 2 upstairs. http://dominicholmes.wix.com/pasykaf. Dominic music lovers all over the world. Organized between 19 May and 4 June 2016, the 16th has already arranged a coach from Paphos, so please book early as tickets are expected International Pharos Chamber Music Festival features a line-up of twenty world-renowned to go quickly for this event. You can order tickets from Maria Botsari at the Pasykaf musicians who will join forces for eight concerts at The Shoe Factory in Nicosia and at Office in Limassol and from the Pasykaf Shops at Pyrgos, Old Town or Kolossi. the Gothic Hall of the Royal Manor House at Kouklia, Palaipaphos. The Festival will Tickets are also available from Donna Peason (as one of the Sponsors, on 99786528) host, amongst others, the most illustrious pianist of our times, Yuja Wang, who is visiting or from Mike Flett’s Office at Nora Court, Floor 6, Anexartisias & Athinon Street, Cyprus for the first time, the exceptional Yevgeny Sudbin – hailed as “potentially one 3040 Limassol (as the other sponsor). Tickets are also available at the Vanity Flair of the greatest pianists of the 21st century”, Concertmaster of the Berlin Philharmonic Shop in Ayios Tychonas. You can also ring the Ticket Hotline on 96885 478 or 99269 Daishin Kashimoto, the remarkable Alessandro Carbonare – principal clarinettist of the 016.

Orchestra di Santa Cecilia in Rome and Fabio Zanon – one of the pre-eminent guitarists Stage One Theatre Group present Paphos Voices of our times. Tickets: €10 Box Office: Directly from the Foundation’s website www. pharosartsfoundation.org or Tel. 9666-9003 (Monday - Friday 10:00am-3:00pm) Tickets Conductor Keith Smith, Pianist Nadia Iotova in The Magic of Gilbert and Sullivan.

Saturday 4th June 2016 at Stage One Theatre, Emba. 7.30pm. Tickets: 8 Euros. also available from: KYRIAKOU FULLPAGE BOOKSHOPS: 30 Ellados Ave., 8020 Contact Anita 99771546 or Penny 99553429 or Theatre Box Office Paphos, Tel. 26-822850 The Pancyprian Classical Guitar Association presents The 1St Guitar Festival Leo Brouwer – A Music Legend In Paphos. Paphos Castle, 19 – 22 May. Three day recital ticket: €30 Thursday 19 May 8pm inside the Castle - Costas Cotsiolis (Greece) tickets: €15.

Friday 20 May 8pm inside the castle - Sabrina Vlaskalic (Serbia) tickets: €15.

Saturday 21 May 8pm inside the Castle - Aniello Desiderio (Italy) tickets: €15.

Master Classes Thursday 19 May 3pm - 6pm - Sabrina Vlaskalic (Serbia) Friday 20 May 3pm - 6pm - Aniello Desiderio (Italy) Saturday 21 May 10am - 1pm - Leo Brouwer (Cuba) Saturday 21 May 3.30pm - 6.30pm - Costas Cotsiolis (Greece) Sunday 22 May 10.30am - 1.30pm - Leo Brouwer (Cuba) Master classes do not have an age limitation. Participants are of 2 categories.

A - Active (those who would like to perform) participation fees €100 for one performance.

B - Non-active (those who are not performing) participation fees €50.

All participants can have FREE entrance to all three recitals at Paphos Castle. For hotel accommodation call Kings Hotel Tel: 26933197. Single: €25, double: €35, per night with breakfast. Rooms fully air conditioned. More details and tickets - Tel: 99632346 or Email: babaji@cytanet.com.cy INFORMATION – Tel: 26932017, 26937670. www.pafos2017.eu PARC 21 May Saturday Table Top Sale from 10pm til 2am at the Coral Star Restaurant opposite Phillippos Supermarket, Coral Bay. Vendor Tables also availiable for €10 each call Pam (99059068) for bookings Please note PARC does not have a shelter to take in animals, we also do not have a shop in the Peyia area. For more information please visit our website (www.parc-cyprus.org) or our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/Parc.Cyprus) Kamares Festival Saturday 28th May Kamares Club, Nr. Tala from 10am to 4pm. Arts and Crafts, Charity Fair Games, Full day of entertainment. Free entry, refreshments served all day.

For details or to exhibit please e-mail, mail@in-any-event.biz or call 99 387 311 The UKCA and Samaritans Charity are holding a UK style Village Fete at the club on Saturday 28th May from10am till 4pm. There will be a farmer’s market selling fish, meat, South African delicacies, cakes, chutneys, home-made toffee apples, etc. There will be various stalls including original art, jewellery, handbags, candles, clothes, CD’s etc and games plus Morris dancers, animals from Paphos zoo and Paws Dog sanctuary. Food will be available all day plus drinks at club prices. We also have a professional valuer to assess your treasures. There is a tombola and raffle. For the children, we have a painting competition for different age groups and for home-made fancy dress. So come and join us for a fun day out and support the charity. There will be plenty of music and Rock FM will be visiting. For further information ring Sheila on 99009154

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© Grapevine • May 2016

Farmers & Crafters Market Pano Akourdaleia Herb Garden. Sunday5th of Jun 10am-2pm. Local, natural, homemade and handmade. Supporting your local community by buying directly from the producers, artists and crafters. Coffee shop on site. Great social atmosphere!

For more details visit www.facebook.com/groups/heavenonearthherbals or contact 96425879/99993412.

A New Choir in Paphos Just over a year ago a small group of experienced and enthusiastic singers got together and formed a small ‘a capella ‘ chamber choir under the Directorship of Jane Roberts.

Jane, who has been head of strings for the Cyprus Music Service, was until recently organist at Ayia Kyriaki, the church of St. Paul’s Pillar. She studied at the Royal Academy of Music and at the Institute of Education, London University and is an experienced tutor on courses in England. Under her guidance the group has studied and worked on a repertoire of varied music, from the 15th century to the present day. The choir, called ‘ SIN NOMINE’ will present a programme of this music, entitled ‘listen,listen,listen,listen.’on WEDNESDAY June 8th at 7.30pm at the Palia Ilektriki. Tickets €10.To reserve tickets contact: sinenomine@primehome.com or telephone:26653928 Anarita Ladies Circle Annual Charity Fashion Show in total support of The Cancer Patients Support Group, Paphos. Monday 13th June at the Bonamare Beach Restaurant, Timi Beach from 4pm and will include stalls, tombola, bumper raffle, live music, entertainment and so much more! Tickets are available from Anne on 97653464, priced at only €10 and include an British style buffet, a raffle ticket, plus a donation to the CPSG. Fashions supplied by Here and Now. A wonderful afternoon out overlooking the sea!

Magically yours

by Peter Stammers

Paphos Magic Society easy trick series.

Interested in magic then visit: www.paphosmagicsociety.com Or email: paphosmagicsociety@gmail.com

This month: Folding Money Effect: A currency note turns itself over.

Secret: Hold the note in your left hand then fold it in half lengthways towards you. Next fold it in half away from you. Finally, fold the note in half again, this time towards your body. Now slowly unfold the note from the front, making each movement in the same direction. The note is now upside down!

Strangely enough, this trick is more baffling if you do it really slowly but, like all tricks, you must practice it thoroughly to make sure you can do it perfectly before showing it to anyone

Š Grapevine • May 2016

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I’ll Give It 10

by Barbarian

Have you upgraded your Windows computer to the Windows 10 yet?

You have another couple of months to upgrade if you are entitled to a freebie. You’ll know because the reminder will keep on flashing up from your desktop until you do, or until you tell it nope.

There were bugs in the system at first, so it was prudent to wait. However, most do seem to have been ironed out now and there is little point in waiting any longer. The upgrade is simple and, doesn’t take too long. All your existing programs and files will still be there and easily accessible.

In fact, after the upgrade, your Windows desktop will look pretty much the same as it did before.

The screen will be the same, with all your icons in the same places. A small warning here, not all the screen backgrounds you may have used in the past will show. You can overcome his by saving the pictures before transferring to Windows 10, if you have a background you particularly want to maintain.

The taskbar will look the same after your upgrade, although some of the icons – such as the internet connection – are slightly different. There are also a couple of new icons – one is for Microsoft Edge – their new web browser. Try this out – you can import your favourites from a previous browser if you like it.

Otherwise, you can remove the icon (Edge will still be available if you want to try again) Another new icon is the Task View (to the right of the search icon). This is a sensible addition and clicking on it will show you all your open files side by side, on a desktop. It’s very useful if you are working on several different programs at the same time and need to jump between them.

The search icon is new too, and it is a great improvement on the old search

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© Grapevine • May 2016

button that used to be on the start menu. It will show best match for any word or phrase you input, and you can choose to look for apps, files or settings specifically by clicking on the menu at the top.

The Start Menu is completely different in Windows 10. It may take a little time to get used to it and to set up the various components to suit your individual taste, but overall it is an improvement. Try right clicking on the pinned items to find some alternatives for such possibilities as resizing or unpinning, or for opening recent or pinned files in Office applications.

Usefully, the start menu includes ‘Get Started’ so that you can follow all the details of what’s available and how to customise your Windows. There’s no need to do it all at once, but there are plenty of possibilities for experimenting until you have all that you want at your fingertips.

Another advantage of Windows 10 is the phone companion. Whether you have a Windows phone, an Android phone or tablet or an iPhone or iPad, you can automatically sync the stuff you want from your PC. One thing I found a little less manageable in Windows 10 is shutting down.

You hit the start icon, then click on power and have the options then to sleep, shutdown or restart. If you want to reach the Task Manger (to see what is going on, or sometimes to close down an unresponsive app) you have to press CTRL+Alt+Delete. No big problem. Right clicking on the windows icon also takes you to a shutdown menu.

Do try Windows 10. If you don’t like it, you can always revert to the old system, although that does mean you may find that, in a couple of years, there’ll be lots of new apps and programs that won’t work on what will be an outmoded operating system.

Kevin’s Dog Life And so it began… On a Saturday afternoon in October last year, as we were coming back from a most enjoyable wine tasting and lunch at the famous Kolios Winery, a fundraising idea came to Kevin’s mind: a sponsored 24hours in the Paphiakos shelter living as a dog. What?!?

24 hours in a shelter with over 1200 animals we all said in unison?

Well… YES! Kevin’s answer came quickly and in a very resolute voice.

He was going to do it.

Apart from the fun in doing it, Kevin’s main reason to do “Kevin’s Dog Life” was a very serious one – to raise awareness and funds, of course. “Awareness” was the most important aspect Kevin was concerned about, especially since he believes immensely in the work carried out by Paphiakos. Then, of course, funding. An organisation the size of Paphiakos, running the largest shelter in the Eastern Mediterranean, needs all the help it can get in the way of funding in order to look after all the animals. He said: “They have over 1200 animals, all rescued and cared for, and many of them have faced cruelty and starvation.

Raising the funds to feed and provide the medical care required is a constant battle and so I am doing my bit to support them”. An online fundraiser had been created for the occasion as well, to allow people from all corners of the world to sponsor Kevin. A day when the weather was going to be nice was fixed for Kevin to be in the shelter and so all the plans were made.

Paphiakos shelter, to show support to Kevin and also to help reunite dogs and people, organised a Rehoming Day to coincide with Kevin’s Dog Life. And so, on Saturday 16th April 2016, all was set. Bright and early, Kevin came to the shelter and put his dog onesie on – he was now Kevin The Dalmatian! The dogs all went crazy when they saw him and they all had nice play sessions, where Kevin lost the tail of his onesie but otherwise managed to get away unscathed. The Rehoming Day was amazing! Kevin taking photos with those that came to see him, with dogs, donkeys and cats! And much to everyone’s happiness, 4 perfect dogs – one adult and 3 puppies - found the perfect homes! People looking for company, for a friend, or even people who were not intending to take a dog home that day, only coming to see Kevin, have made our day absolutely perfect by giving so much love and a much needed home to 4 little wonders. Rosie Annabelle and 3 springer spaniel cross puppies now live the perfect dog life in loving homes! What a day!

For more information on Kevin’s Dog Life & the Rehoming Saturday and/or the activity, events, and more, please telephone 26946461 or check our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Paphiakos/.

© Grapevine • May 2016

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Expat Tax Saving Checklist

by Sam Orgill

Expat Savers can make more tax savings following changes in the UK and Cyprus Taxes.

pensions and available to invest – at no tax for Cyprus expats investing for interest or dividends.

Tax Savings can extend to inheritance following changes to Wills and Inheritance tax rates in the UK.

Tax Saving Tip: Consider drawing your pension lump sum as a Cyprus Tax resident. Review your options with ProACT Tax Saving Experts.

Cyprus Tax on Saving If you are Cyprus Tax resident but not domiciled in Cyprus, then you have no Saving taxes (Defence Levy) to pay. This saves 30% on interest and 17% on dividends. Whether the income is earned in Cyprus or abroad.

Inheritance Tax Changes UK Inheritance tax remains at 40%. Allowance for married couple, main residence, is increasing to 500,000 per person over 5 years. Meanwhile, changes to tax disclosure of capital and estates in the coming year mean that discrete tax planning to avoid 40% UK inheritance tax on Cyprus property will not work. Opening up Cyprus property to UK Inheritance tax on death.

If you pay 30% tax at source in Cyprus banks you can apply to have this paid gross.

If you earn interest abroad, declare on your Cyprus return to confirm the 0% Cyprus tax rate. Then you can reclaim tax in from the other country if the double taxation treaty allows.

The same with dividends: declare them in Cyprus for 0% tax rate; reclaim any tax at source if allowed.

Cyprus inheritance tax is 0%. If lifetime gifts of Cyprus Property are made then you can save 40% Inheritance Tax. This works while keeping you and the family in control and allows the bonus of avoiding in full the cost and delay of probate.

Tax Saving Tip: Ask ProACT for tax saving returns and rebates.

Tax Saving Tip: Consider gifting Cyprus property to avoid UK inheritance tax, and probate cost and delay with ProACT Expatriate Advice

UK Tax on Saving From April 2016 a £5000 tax saving allowance exists in the UK. Also the UK will stop to charge tax on bank interest at source, you will have to declare and pay tax on saving in a UK tax return.

Make a Will Changes The Cyprus changes to Succession mean Expats must make written changes to their Will to avoid forced heirship and retain financial control of their affairs on first death.

Dividends are no longer taxed at source with a 10% tax credit. The first £5000 of dividends is tax free. This is new tax free allowance. Consider a high dividend share portfolio holding to receive additional tax free income.

The dividend tax rate is then 7.5% for basic rate tax payers, so again it is a great alternative source of low tax income.

If you are Cyprus tax resident, this will allow you to pay no tax in the UK, but you must declare on your Cyprus return all income worldwide.

There is still an £11,000 personal allowance available to UK Expats for any interest, dividend or rental income. Above this 20% UK tax is due. You should make sure you complete returns to reclaim tax at source.

Pension Tax Saving for Expats Under pension freedom, If you have a UK pension fund you can draw up to the whole fund. As a Cyprus tax payer expats would pay 5% tax on this income (after allowances and tax free sum). Then these funds are free of

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© Grapevine • May 2016

This can be done with a simple codicil or with an update Will. Noting if you use the laws of your home country then you tie your Cyprus Property assets to UK inheritance tax under new tax exchange of information rules being introduced.

Tax Saving Tip: Make written changes to your Cyprus Will. Review you Will to protect Cyprus assets from inheritance tax and probate cost and delay.

Free Review – Tax, Wills, Inheritance, Property ProACT offer a Free Review of your Tax, Wills, Inheritance and Property issues for Expats living and working abroad. Contact us to book a Free review.

Read more on our website www.proactpartnership.com/blog .

© Grapevine • May 2016

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© Grapevine • May 2016

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All your Decorating and Home Improvement Needs Catered for

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Š Grapevine • May 2016

UK New Tax Year New Changes

by Mrs. Vivian Nagel, MCSI

The 2016/17 tax year brings a few changes. I have highlighted those I think may be of interest or applicable to UK expats living in Cyprus.

State Pension Any one who reaches retirement age on 6th April 2016 or after and who has paid NI contributions for at least 10 years will receive the new single tier pension.

For those who have NI contributions of 35 years or more the full pension equates to ₤155.65 per week. This reduces depending on years of NI contributions (min. 10 yrs) It replaces the Basic State Pension and additional schemes like the Second State Pension and Pension Benefit. This includes anyone who has been ‘contracted out’. If a significant amount has been contributed to a second state pension (SERPS) then an enhanced weekly rate may apply. If you’ve only accumulated a small amount through an Additional State Pension scheme your flat rate won’t be supplemented.

Any young people who begin paying National Insurance after today will have their entire pension calculated through the new single-tier system. Contracting out is no longer an option.

For all other pensioners the flat rate goes up from ₤115.95 to ₤119.30 Lifetime allowance You usually pay tax if your total pensions are worth more than the lifetime allowance. This has been reduced form 6th April 2016 from £1.25 million to £1 million.

The rate of tax you pay on pension savings above your lifetime allowance depends on how the money is paid to you. The rate is 55% if you take a lump sum and 25% otherwise.

Property tax Stamp duty has risen for landlords and those buying second homes.

Up to 1st April 2016 no stamp duty was levied on the first ₤125,000 of your property purchase value. From 1 April, those buying a buy-to-let property or second home will have to pay a 3% stamp duty surcharge on the existing bands.

3% on property worth between £40,000 and £125,000 5% up to £250,000

Hospice Says ‘Thank You’ for Past Ten Years

The Friends’ Hospice is marking its tenth year with a huge public ‘thank you’ at the Castle in Kato Paphos Harbour on Sunday, May 15.

The free open-air concert will feature a wide variety of performers and artistes. All of them have volunteered their time and talent, without charge, as their recognition of the palliative care offered by the hospice to the people of the widespread Paphos region.

“Like those of us who oversee the hospice, these dancers and musicians say they want to show their appreciation of the countless hours and selfless work which our volunteers have devoted to the charity during the past ten years,” says Chris Jones, President of The Friends’ Hospice Foundation.

“But, in addition, we all want to say ‘thank you’ to the people of the Paphos district – Cypriot and ex-pat alike – who have supported us during the last decade. So, we hope many of them will come along on May 15th to allow us to do that.”

The concert will begin at eleven in the morning. Among the artistes taking to the stage will be the Christina Kampanella dance school, three professional female singers who have joined forces as ‘The Harmonettes’, the Orphean Singers, together with a variety of traditional Greek bands and Rock groups. Food and refreshments will also be on offer.

Since it began its work in 2006, The Friends’ Hospice has offered palliative care for more than 1,150 people suffering from illnesses for which a medical cure is no longer possible. This care is given completely free of charge to everyone, regardless of his or her nationality or religious belief.

To commemorate those who received care and treatment there, the hospice is to open a special Book of Remembrance which will contain photographs of departed loved ones, donated by families and friends. The book will be held at the hospice in perpetuity.

Housed in its own dedicated wing in St George’s Polyclinic in the centre of Paphos, the hospice has a team of doctors and nurses caring for patients day and night throughout the year. Seventy per cent of those who receive treatment are Cypriot with other nationalities making up the balance.

It costs about €300,000 a year to run the facility. To sustain its services, the hospice relies or donations, fund-raising events by the public and volunteers and the income of its charity shops in Chlorakas, Kato Paphos, Geroskipou, Polis and Pissouri.

Successive Ministers of Health have praised the charity for the specialised service it delivers for the people of Paphos.

“And none of it would be possible without the hard work of our volunteers and the great kindness of the public,” says Chris Jones.

8% to £925,000.

13% up to £1.5m 15% over £1.5m Wear and tear allowance The allowance allowed landlords to offset 10% of rental income against tax for maintenance, regardless of whether they carried out any repairs or not.

From April 2016, they will only be able to claim for maintenance they can prove has taken place. That means that careful record keeping of receipts and invoices is essential. .

Capital Gains Tax payable on residential property sales will remain unchanged at 18 per cent for basic rate taxpayers and 28 per cent for higher rate taxpayers.

The CGT tax-free allowance will remain unchanged at £11,100.

Income Tax The income tax personal allowance has risen from £10,600 to £11,000.

The threshold at which you move from being a Basic Rate taxpayer (paying 20%) to a Higher Rate taxpayer (paying 40%) has also increased, moving from £42,385 to £43,000.

Hollingsworth International Financial Services Limited, Mobile 99579149 Fax: + 356 21316299 Email: Viviann@hollingsworth-int.comWebsite: www.hollingsworth.eu.com.com Licensed by the Malta Financial Services Authority to provide Investment Services under the Investment Services Act 1994. License No. IS/ 32457 © Grapevine • May 2016

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Avocado Recipes

by Cherry Dobbins

The best way to prepare an avocado is – Cut lengthways going round the stone.

Meanwhile place the avocado in an ovenproof pan and bake for 5 to 6 minutes.

Twist the 2 halves in opposite directions until they separate.

Remove from the pan and when cool enough peel and slice.

Remove the seed by banging the blade of a sharp knife into it and then gently and slightly twisting whilst pulling.

Put the dressing ingredients in a jam jar, screw on the top and shake well to combine.

Spoon out the flesh right up to the peel or gently remove the peel from the halves – it usually comes away quite easily but run the knife between the flesh and skin and then nick the skin to start it off.

Lay the tomatoes on a plate and top with the slices of baked avocado. Slice the breast into thick slices and place on top of the avocado. Pour over the dressing and eat.

Avocado Hummus

Avocado and Apple Smoothie

1 ripe avocado prepped as above

2 leaves baby spinach

1 400g can chick peas, drained

1 apple, chopped

1 or 2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped

pinch cinnamon

juice of 1 lemon

¼ avocado, prepared as above

½ tsp. Tabasco

½ tsp acai berry powder (optional or a few dried ones)

½ tsp ground cumin

1 cup water

Salt to taste

1 cup ice

Put all the ingredients in a blender and blitz to a smooth paste.

Place all the ingredients in a blender and blitz.

Eggs Baked in Avocado

Avocado Salad Dressing I love this with green salad leaves and chunks of cold chicken or hard boiled egg.

Blitz avocado with sour cream or natural yoghurt and add a little lemon juice and salt to taste. If you want to thin it add a little water.

Guacamole

Because even small eggs do not quite fit in the hole left by the seed put each avocado in a separate greased baking/serving dish so that the whites are not lost.

2 avocado prepared as above 1 lemon, juice only

3 avocados, prepared and mashed. Seeds retained.

2 tsp. Tabasco sauce

3 tomatoes, deseeded and chopped fine

4 small eggs

¼ red onion, chopped fine

Chopped fresh coriander to garnish

1 plant coriander (as opposed to a whole bunch), chopped fine

Sauce:

1 chilli, chopped fine

450ml cream

3 limes or lemons, juice only

200g Gruyere cheese (or the local Kefalotiri)

Salt and pepper

4 spring onions, chopped fine

If you want a smooth guacamole blitz in a blender but a more authentic dip would simply mash the ingredients together for a textured dip.

6 cherry tomatoes, chopped

Put a seed in the mixture to stop it going brown.

Baked Avocado with Mustard Chicken

Turn oven to 200°C Slice a little off the bottom of each avocado so they sit flat

This is based on a Brian Turner recipe from the days of ‘Ready Steady Cook’.

Squeeze over the lemon juice and a few drops of Tabasco. Season

1 chicken breast

Crack an egg into each hole.

Salt

Bake for 5 minutes or until the eggs are set to taste.

Fresh ground black pepper

Meanwhile bring the cream to the boil in a saucepan, turn very low and allow to reduce by half. Keep an eye on it as it does not take long.

1 tsp. olive oil ½ avocado, stone removed

Stir in the cheese, onions and tomatoes and stir to heat through.

4 cherry tomatoes, halved and seasoned

Pour the sauce over the avocados and garnish with coriander.

Dressing: 1 tbsp olive oil Pinch sugar 1 tsp Dijon mustard 2 tsp white wine vinegar Salt and black pepper Turn oven to 220°C Heat griddle pan to very very hot.

Season the chicken, brush with the oil and griddle for 8 to12 minutes then check it is cooked through.

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Mango and Avocado Salsa Serve with barbecued chicken.

1 avocado, prepared as above and diced ½ ripe mango, diced ½ lemon, juice only 1 tbsp. chopped fresh coriander 3 tbsp chopped fresh lemon basil or the small leaf sweet variety 100 ml coconut milk 1 tbsp. fish sauce Put all the ingredients in a bowl and mash together.

Advocate for Avocados

by Cherry Dobbins

“They never leave the avocados on the trees long enough to ripen in Cyprus so I never buy them.” Overheard in a local supermarket from a British expat.

Avocados are ‘climacteric’ which means the fruit matures on the tree but ripens off the tree. Naturally, they would fall off and ripen on the ground.

Avocados from South America are imported into The Netherlands where there is a massive industrial plant that ripens avocados before distribution throughout Europe.

To ripen an avocado put it into a brown paper bag and leave in a drawer for 2 to 4 days. To speed the process up try including an apple or banana.

They are ripe when they feel heavy for their size. Do not squeeze very hard as they bruise easily.

The size of an average avocado is the same as that of a baby in the womb at 16 weeks.

Avocados are fruit and come in the single seed berry category.

They are native to Central and South America where they have been cultivated since 8000BC. The avocado is fibre rich. It is 75% insoluble fibre which speeds up the passage f food through the body and 25% soluble fibre which makes you feel full.

Although the avocado is 59% fat it is cholesterol free. It is a rare fruit that contains monounsaturated fat that helps to boost the good cholesterol in the diet and lower the bad.

Private Wine Tasting Small groups catered for (min 12 persons) Mon, Tues, Wed, & Thurs evenings Central Paphos location Come and discover the beauty of Greek wines Follow your evening with a Greek charcoal grilled meal served with Greek wine at a reasonable inclusive price.

Further details phone:

Ann-Marie on 99 580320

This high level of monounsaturated fat can help stop insulin resistance and so avocados are good for diabetics.

The sugar content is comparatively low and it is gluten free.

Protein makes up 8 % of the nutritional value. It is rare to find a high protein fruit and avocados contain all f the 18 essential amino acids.

Gram for gram it contains higher levels of potassium than bananas. Because of this it can help maintain good blood pressure.

The darker flesh just under the skin is the part which is richest in the antioxidants vitamins A and C. The carotenoid lutein reduces the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.

It is also a good source of glutathione another powerful antioxidant; Avocados also supply us with vitamins B5, K and E and the minerals magnesium, phosphorus and iron.

They are good for rheumatoid and osteo arthritis.

They are sometimes called an ‘alligator pear’ because of the skin and also because when they are cut in half the stone is protruding like an alligator’s eye.

The word ‘avocado’ comes from the Spanish word ‘aguacate’ which comes from the Aztec word ‘ahuacatl’ which translates as ‘testicle’. It is the Aztec symbol for love and fertility.

Brazilians love to make ice cream from avocados.

There are some people who are allergic to avocados. Symptoms include stuffy nose, wheezing, coughing and edema.

You can use mashed avocado instead of butter in baking. Substitute half the amount of butter with mashed avocado. If you use all avocado you will not get a good rise.

Peyia Bowling Club News

The Club is celebrating success in International, National, Club and Visitors’ Competitions.

Carol McGrath was selected to play for the Cyprus International Team in the recent Test Match Series with Israel and Jersey, which Cyprus won overall. Carol with Norma Redfearn have also, reached the Semi Finals of the Ladies National Pairs Competitions and along with Val Williamson, Carol and Norma have also reached the Finals in the Ladies National Triples Competitions. While, George McGill has reached the Finals of the Mixed Triples Handicapped Competition. We wish them all good luck– see photo from the front Carol, Val, Norma and George.

The winners of the Club 4 Bowl Competitions were:Ladies’ Singles Champion - Norma Redfearn.

Mens’ Singles Champion - Stuart Harrison.

Ladies’ Pairs Champions’ - Carol McGrath and Val Williamson.

Been to a good Restaurant or Taverna lately?

Grapevine always welcomes reviews from its readers from places to eat that are just that little bit special.

If you need help please email us for our Restaurant questionnaire, which you can fill in and return to us. grapevine@cytanet.com.cy

Mens’ Pairs Champions’ - Mick Haylor and David Pullen/George McGill.

Mixed Pairs Champion’s - Carol and Billy McGrath.

Well done to you all.

The Club has continued to enjoy friendly Matches against Visiting Clubs’ on Bowling Holidays’ from the United Kingdom. In a 6 day competition arranged by Potters Holiday Company at the Athena Hotel, Mo Haylor stepped in to make up the numbers, and found herself Skipping her team from Kent and Yorkshire into the Final.

Our Club Members pride themselves on their welcome to new or experienced Bowlers and Social Members too. We offer new or experienced Bowlers of any level, coaching on an individual or team basis. Look us up on our Club Website WWW.bowlingincyprus.com or phone Mike Holtom on 99296508. Or pop down to the Green on a Saturday or Wednesday at 9.30am or a Monday afternoon at 2.30pm to meet us and see for your-self just how much we enjoy our game of Bowls.

© Grapevine • May 2016

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What is Systemic Family Therapy?

by Dr Vasilios Silivistris, DipComp DipSup MBACP BA MA FRSH PhD

Systemic Family therapy also known as Family Therapy is a type of psychological counselling (psychotherapy) that helps family members improve communication and resolve conflicts. Family therapy is usually provided by a qualified psychologist, psychotherapist or a counsellor.

Systemic Family therapy also known as Family Therapy is a type of psychological counselling (psychotherapy) that helps family members improve communication and resolve conflicts. Family therapy is usually provided by a qualified psychologist, psychotherapist or a counsellor.

It enables family members, couples and others who care about each other; •

to express and explore difficult thoughts and emotions safely,

•

to understand each other’s experiences and views, appreciate each other’s needs,

•

build on strengths and make useful changes in their relationships and their lives.

Individuals can find Family Therapy helpful, as an opportunity to reflect on important relationships and find ways forward. Research shows Family Therapy is useful for children, young people and adults experiencing a very wide range of difficulties and experiences.

Family Therapy aims to be:

•

Resolve a specific issue.

•

Prepare the family for a major life change such as a divorce or remarriage.

•

Address the role that family plays in an individual’s life.

Depending on the unique needs and goals of the family, different combinations of family members may participate in each therapy session.

The family therapist may give family members assignments to begin addressing some of the challenges identified during therapy.

What are the benefits of Family Therapy?

Evaluating issues in family therapy can help an individual: •

Understand how their family functions.

•

Identify strengths and weaknesses in the family system.

•

Set goals and develop strategies to resolve challenges.

•

Improve communication skills.

•

Make the entire family stronger.

Family therapy is often used in conjunction with other types of mental health treatment, particularly if one or more family members would benefit from specialised treatment for addictions, eating disorders or other illnesses.

Some mental health programmes offer a family therapy component while a loved one is in treatment and also encourage each family member to pursue individual therapy.

Anyone seeking healthier, closer family relationships can benefit from family therapy. Family therapy is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:

•

Inclusive and considerate of the needs of each member of the family and/or other key relationships (systems) in people’s lives.

• Marital problems.

•

Recognise and build on peoples’ strengths and relational resources.

• Parent-child conflict.

•

Work in partnership ‘with’ families and others, not ‘on’ them.

• Problems between siblings.

•

Sensitive to diverse family forms and relationships, beliefs and cultures.

• The effects of illness on the family.

• Enable people to talk, together or individually, often about difficult or distressing

issues, in ways that respect their experiences, invite engagement and support recovery.

Studies show that family therapy is particularly important for adults and adolescents struggling with substance abuse, eating disorders, and other emotional and behavioural issues. When the whole family grows together, each individual member is better off.

Risks There are no major risks involved in receiving family therapy, especially if family members seek the therapy with honesty, openness, and a willingness to change.

Normal results The goal of therapy is the identification and resolution of the problem that is causing the family’s unhealthy interactions. Results vary, but in good circumstances, they include greater insight, increased differentiation of individual family members, improved communication within the family, and loosening of previously automatic behaviour patterns.

Dr Vasilios Silivistris is a UK trained Psychotherapist and Counselling practitioner. Tel: 99 109177. Email: v.silivistris@btinternet.com

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© Grapevine • May 2016

MAGGIE’S BEAUTY SPOT: Feeling Floral Spring has officially sprung, the clocks have changed, ours days are longer and the skies are brighter. Now is the perfect time to take stock of your wardrobe, de-clutter and pick up some fresh pieces for the months ahead. If you haven’t tried florals before, then now is the time and this month we give you some inspiration on how to style them for Spring.

Keep It Simple Floral prints can work for the office when paired with chic, tailored pieces. A pencil skirt with a subtle floral design will ensure you don’t look too ‘girly’ in a working environment. Wear with a simple top and pick out one of the colours from the print with your accessories to pull your look together.

Add An Accent If you don’t want to go all-out with flowery prints then consider an accent piece instead.

Floral Spring A floral pair of shoes, a bag or even a belt will all add a fresh touch to an existing outfit to bring you right up-to-date for the season ahead.

Mix It Up They may seem an unlikely pairing, but florals work beautifully with stripes!

To ensure your look feels cohesive when mixing patterns make sure you keep the colour ways harmonious - tie it all together by choosing one main colour for your outfit with a few accent colours to complement it.

For more information contact Maggie Wright on 99318477 maggiecmb@ yahoo.co.uk www.cmbcyprus. com Treat yourself to a colour consultation - 10% off for Grapevine readers. Vouchers are available for special occasions.

© Grapevine • May 2016

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Professional Matchmakers for Relationship Minded Singles by

If you are Single you will already know that it isn’t an easy task to find your diamond.

You may have tried internet dating, dating apps, or hope to meet that special person through your social and professional circle; but feel disheartened by the results.

It’s a challenge globally that many decent relationship- minded Singles of all ages, gender and nationality are facing. Despite being more connected via technology than ever, singles feel that making the quality, genuine connections they are hoping for is harder than ever.

In the UK, US and many countries; relationship minded singles are turning to off line Matchmaking agencies for professional help as they do for other areas in life. The industry is booming, so much so, that the Matchmaking Institute in New York was created to train Matchmakers, and several dating industry conferences and awards take place annually. The iDate Conference for example is running its 43rd conference this year; and Cyprus is their chosen European location in July. Love is a serious Business!

Having identified a gap for a much needed quality dating service in Cyprus, I decided to provide such a solution here. I applied my life coaching, recruitment and HR experience in the hospitality industry to matters of the heart and created Selective Matches, an off line Matchmaking and Date Coaching service based here in Cyprus for selective relationship minded Singles.

It is essentially the antidote to internet dating. If you’ve tried it, you won’t be shocked to know that an estimated 85% of online dating profiles aren’t accurate. The Statistic brain- research institute

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© Grapevine • May 2016

found that Men lie most about; age, height, income and women lie most about; weight, physical build, age.

Since launching in the summer of last year my members; quality single ladies and gentlemen continue to grow in number as are introductions and dates.

Singles using a Matchmaker have made the decision not to waste time leaving love to chance, and are positive and open minded about connecting to new people and the right people.

These are the kind of lovely Singles you hope to meet in person but haven’t yet, as you are not in the right place at the right time.

Members have diverse experiences with dating and relationships, which include •

Actively dating already, and want to widen their network to meet the best match for them

•

Divorced with or without children, and new to the current dating scene.

•

Too busy with careers and life- keeping them from meeting the right person

•

Prefer a more low key, discreet, personal approach rather than usual dating Sites

•

Shy, Private, reserved and averse to meeting singles in clubs and bars.

•

Tired of choosing the wrong people for them leading to dead end relationships

In summary the top reasons quality relationship minded Singles find working with a professional Matchmaker easier are: 1) Quality over Quantity- Your time won’t be wasted with unsuitable matches. Compatibility

is based on the important vitals such as shared values, relationship needs, goals, personality and attraction.

2) No Surprises- Your match will be who they say they are with no surprises. All members are interviewed in person first and details verified.

3) Private, Confidential, Discreet. Everything discussed is confidential. Your profile and photos are secure and not distributed. Photos are shown in person to approved matches only.

4) A Matchmaker works for you- You are casting a wider net, and someone is dedicated to meeting and screening potential matches on your behalf, saving you time, energy and disappointments. All you need to do is enjoy the date.

5) It’s a human, personalised, honest and genuine approach to being introduced to like minded quality singles.

There are many lovely quality ladies and gentlemen in my community, if you are a commitment minded lady or gentleman and would like to increase your prospects of meeting someone special, I may already know someone perfect for you! Ladies are invited to join for free, and gentlemen are able to join for a reasonable membership fee. There is a special membership offer available for gentlemen until May 31st which would be a shame to miss.

Feel free to contact me at hello@selectivematches.com Website www.selectivematches.com

New Life Begins.

by Alan Longstaff

We have just celebrated Easter when we think about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and what that means to all of us.

Now we are experiencing Spring, it’s a lovely time of year. I am in the UK at the time of writing this, I forgot how life changing Spring was. By life changing I meant to farm animals out in the fields, also zoo animals. Everywhere you look there is new life, lambs frolicking in the fields, calves in the cattle stalls suckling from their mothers. Birds darting back and forth with twigs in their beaks nest building, the male birds singing at full volume proclaiming new life is about to begin. Just hearing the birds singing makes us feel happier, joyful even. There is a price to pay for this, the birds start singing at 4am, I am an early riser so it makes little difference to me, however some folk don’t like to be disturbed.

The trees and hedge rows are all in bud, new leaves are coming out, but they all looked so drab in winter when the leaves died off.

When we think about what I said, a price to pay Jesus paid the price so all of humanity might experience new life, by that I mean we have a choice to make, that is get rid of the things in our lives that make us unhappy like the leaves falling off the trees and start new things that bring joy and true happiness, let things blossom in our lives and that will only happen when we start talking to Jesus. If you don’t believe me try it and see, before you know it you will be laughing more, not worrying about what time the club or pub opens or how much the price of cigarettes are going up. Belief in Jesus is the only thing that is not expensive or that wears out and needs renewing. Start a relationship with Him as soon as you can and see if I am right.

If you need help in starting this please just get in touch with me or Val or any other person that goes to New Testament Community Church and we will be only to please to help you. God’s richest blessings on you, Alan.

My Thought of the Day – Good Riddance!

There is definitely something rotten in Cyprus that contaminates people's brains to act so corrupt and so brutal that shows no respect for this beautiful country or society at large. As long as they steal millions (at taxpayers expense) some people in authority don't give a damn of the country or its citizens. Greed rules their everyday actions and corrupt brains!

The latest corruption waste/rubbish scandal that involves millions of thievery

by Larnaka’s Mayor and his crony accomplices - just like Vergas the exPaphos' Mayor (now locked up) of the same magnitude it’s incomprehensible to ordinary citizens who believe that elected persons are there to act in their best interests or the country. It does not seem so! The system has developed a nauseating stench for many years now!

But, there is hope in the horizon! A Revolution of the Mind has now started and people speak out against wrongdoing and corruption. Well overdue in my mind and that's good news!

The newly elected Mayor of Paphos Mr Phedonas Phedonos and Mr Odysseas Michailides the new Auditor General, have set the trend of this new revolution; a revolution that I have been speaking about for years now!

This Revolution of the Mind has started and citizens now demand transparency and they are no longer afraid to speak out against bad authority, injustice or corruption. Soon other cities will follow suit and prominent names including politicians would be exposed to meet the same humiliating fate of their illicit activities. Good riddance!

Justice in Cyprus has finally has come out of hibernation.

Andreas C Chrysafis © Grapevine • May 2016

23

Women and the Injustice done Against them

by Michalis D. Papas

I shall not be verbose but I shall try to be as simple as possible. There is an injustice and prejudice against women.

Because they have the handicap of the menstruation circle, they are almost evicted from their jobs, when they get pregnant! How the hell you want to have the everlasting circle of life and death and the everlasting continuation of life? Do you want perhaps your women to cover their faces and their bodies with the so called “feretzie” and to get married to a woman who is afraid to talk to you?

It is certainly unspeakable to have the “Mandela” and the covering of all the beauty of the human-feministic weak gene that is the so called WOMAN. One day Eva asks Adam: why me Adam? And he answers: because I did not find another!

What about pre-arrange marriage with children of 10 years of age. This is certainly returning back ages, which passed with no return. We are not going to prejudice and have children be molested, and what is not fair, certainly goes for any country. It is anachronistic to pre judge the fate of your children, and certainly not having a right to women to choose their mate! I am not totally against any as such marriage, but do not forget that GOD gave to humans the right to choose and above all to live a decent life as equal. In Europe things are different but we certainly go back to Medieval times of the burning of the so called witches and isolation to women, and having harems as a solution to female abundance (women are more numerically than men).

I am not going to judge the followers of ISLAM but for Heaven’s sake we are not so backward. The laze fare gives the idea of choice and above all enjoying life. The adulteress goes about then with her nose and ears cut off and we have not the idea of a woman, or a man for that matter, of a second chance.

If somebody want a second chance then let them have it and there is the possibility of having even a third chance. What is this about monogamy when you have a man of high esteem be the adultery and having a ladyfriend, perhaps his secretary, but when the wife goes astray to have her burnt on fire, or even buried when she is alive, when her husband dies?

There are women for everybody and so why be as vulgar as to have a child having to offer, mind you without the idea of choice. I can talk for ages and this discrimination against women is not only anachronistic but we turn the clock back ages. Jehovah’s Witness do not marry again, but they do not even accept the Hole Matrimony. What about women getting together and trying to solve this injustice against the best of the roses and the most mum of the mothers! And this anachronistic idea that: the groom now can kiss his bride!

This is certainly the worst joke that I have ever heard. We live into the 21st century and we shall not accept the prejudged marriages.

Man makes his choice but the last word is to the woman. Does she and that man as her husband, or not? And the question here arises: do we have God’s free will or are we going to bring back the dowry and even more are we as contemporary as to have to try both as a couple before getting married if they are sexually consistent or we shall say: get used to each other after marriage.

This is inhuman and perhaps many a problematic couples with deformed children and the problem is: is it better to play the fiddle before or after.

I am not a Theologian but I think in Arabia they need a few Suffragettes to show, to the so called men, the ways of Europe and even of USA and Canada, where the choice is made after long trial and thus most marriages are a two way thing!

Divorce is an easy way out, but the children being ridiculed and being harassed upon by society and some of us dare to force them to paranoia, when we call them bastards. I am not against divorce but get contemporary and be fair to women. They are human too, you know! Hitler made a war and burnt them alive, because he was a bastard, (a cross of a Jew with a German lady) but are we going to become so destructive as to say: one wife is enough. If one woman is enough you may become clergy and thus proving to the world that: a single man is a danger and that if you do not communicate well you may chop your head off and not have a second or third trial. There are jealous people when they do not admit that not only their mother is a saint and the rest of the women are filthy.

I shall leave you with the thought: do not do unto others what you do not want done unto you! The one without a sin, let Him the first stone cast!

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© Grapevine • May 2016

Paphos Classic Vehicle Club Paphos Classic Vehicle Club is a group of people who either own or appreciate classic vehicles, and enjoy getting together, using and discussing them. We usually hold our monthly Socials at the Ayios Epiphanios Taverna in Anarita on the third Saturday of the month at 15.00 . Not all members actually own a classic vehicle, and some that do are in the process of restoring them and use their ‘modern’ vehicles in the meantime.

The most important event of our year is the Paphos Classic Vehicle Show which takes place at the Paphos Castle Harbour on Sunday 22nd May 2016.

It is open to the public from 10.00am till 2.00pm Admission is Free so come along and see the cars you ,had or wished you`d had in the past.

There will be a public vote for the vehicle you would most like to drive home in entries to be in by 12.00 noon.( for fun only ).

Do not miss this great display of beautiful classic vehicles.

Our sponsors for the event are :Evangelismos Hospital ,Chris`s Garage ,Solar Technologies ,Paphos Home Market ,and Gabriel`s Tavern Kouklia our thanks to them also to our media sponsors Rock .F.M broadcasting Live from the show.

On the 31st March Wendy and Martin organized a mystery tour starting from Timi market car park and driving a great route though glorious scenery to finish with a splendid meal at Paramali.

Also on the 7th April Val and Alan organized the monthly lunch run ending at the Captains Bay at Pissouri another super day out.

Our new website is now up and running so please visit using address below. Contact us on e-mail address: paphosclassicvehicleclub@gmail.com Phone: 99791872 Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Paphclassics Website: www.paphosclassicvehicleclub.weebly.com for regular updates and details of events.

© Grapevine • May 2016

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CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES MOBILE AUTO ENGINEER British trained with over 35 years experience. Any vehicle catered for.

Call any time 99 802067. See Main advert for more details.

MARK The CARPENTER City & Guilds, also advanced craft, 32 yrs experience, kitchens, storage solutions, suspended ceilings, bedrooms, pergolas, fencing, decking, sound/heat insulation.

All bespoke joinery. Portfolio/ references. All workmanship guaranteed. Free quotes.

Mark: 96 395309 or email cypruscarpenter@yahoo.co.uk FRIENDLY ENGLISH GARDENER Friendly, reliable Englishman with 20 years gardening experience & City & Guilds qualifications, certificates & references available. Weekly/ fortnightly/as required. For a free quotation & consultation call Peter 99 137874 or PJ 96 234965 or check us out at www.thepaphosgardeners.com THE COMPLETE PROPERTY SOLUTION Madock Ltd, All aspects of house refurbishment: kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. Building works including, electrics, plumbing (including central heating), carpentry, plastering, painting, tiling roofing and mains sewerage connection. All work undertaken by our team of qualified tradesmen. No job too small. Call Tony on 99 009665 for a free, no obligation quote.

EXPERIENCED UPHOLSTERER Soft furnishings, curtains, alterations, garden furniture, loose covers, canopies, large selection of quality fabrics & canvas available.

For free quotation ring Busy Bees on 99 229778.

SAM’S DECORATIONS Professional plasterers and painters.

Alterations, tiling, stonework, graffiadou, roofs and ceiling repairs, plasterboard works, tape and joining and much more. Please don’t hesitate to call Sam for your free quote. Tel 96 330553 or 99 262147.

ALPHA CARPENTRY & JOINERY Fully qualified carpenters, custom made joinery i.e. storage solutions.

Radiator cabinets with wide range of grills. All types of fencing & gates, pergolas, carports, wooden or composite decking. Plasterboard partitions & suspended ceilings.

References available & all workmanship fully guaranteed. For all your woodworking needs with free quotes please call Mark 96 395309 or Rab 96 845598. email: alphacarpentrycyprus@yahoo.com

ATOM EXTERMINATORS LTD Pest Control, Termites, Woodworm, Rodents, Fleas etc. Members of British Pest Control Association, Royal Society of Health U.K. Licensed by Ministry of Agriculture (License n.9) Tel: 26 220336, 99637193.

MARTYN THE ELECTRICIAN British electrician available for all electrical work big or small, fully qualified City & Guilds 236/2391 & NICEIC level. Extra sockets, water heaters, lights, installation work, testing, inspection and fault finding. Please call Martyn on tel 96 558321. Paphos, Peyia & Polis areas. 24-hour call out. For further info please visit www.electriciancyprus.com AT YOUR SERVICE’ - COMPLETE MAINTENANCE For all you property requirements, Specialist Painters and Decorators, Roof repairs, Drainage/Damp solutions, Balcony repairs, Patios, Double Glazing & Shutters, Fencing, Pergolas. Free quotation. Excellent prices, over 15 years experience.

Please call 99112055 Email: atyourservice@cytanet.com.cy Web: www.cmscyprus.net WANTED LEAVING CYPRUS??

Cars bought for Cash 99 315649.

FOR SALE Honda Civic Grey 1.5 Automatic. H reg. 750 Euro.

Please call LD SO Unique Town House Paphos Town Hall Area. 1-2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Garden room, Roof recreation area. Viewing by appointment only. Strictly no agents.

Tel: LD SO Unique Town House Paphos Town Hall Area. 3 floors plus Roof recreation area. 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, 1 multipurpose room, living room & kitchen, decked back yard. Stunning panoramic views.

170,000 Euro with title deeds. Viewing by appointment only. Strictly no agents.

Tel: 99 580320 VOLVO For Sale Solid Gold Genuine Swedish Volvo Saloon, 2Litre Turbo Charged engine, running trouble free, Shiny white rust free body work One careful owner 1200 euro or nearest offer. Tel : 97 732742

To advertise on classifieds section, please send your advert clearly written, including € 10 for 30 words inclusive of VAT. Extra words are chargeable at € 0.25 each. Carefully count the number of words and decide how many insertions you require. Payment must be included with order. Email us on grapevine@cytanet. com.cy or post your advert to PO Box 62068, Paphos, 8060 or call direct to our office at 26819167, 24a Marias Loizidou, Paphos, 8047.

Deadline -15th of the preceding month.

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© Grapevine • May 2016

PISC Cup of Kindness

by Alice Stanley

There has been a much going on at the Paphos International Sailing Club since our last editorial a few months ago. Lots of new members, thanks to our powerful team of Brian Parker Membership Secretary and Tony Crow our Rear Commodore House. Also thanks to Tony Davenport our Rear Commodore Sailing who will be taking a well earned rest after taking the Sailing Section into a new league. (He wants me to mention “Leicester” here. Sad.) His stalwart work leaves the section running like a well oiled machine - Safety; Fun and friendly Competitive Spirit being the mantra.

Water at the Mark! By Chris Scorer

Programmes of Dinghy Sailing Skills; Safety Boat Skills; and First Aid Skills (we now have a defibrillator) went on apace last season with more than 50 members receiving Certificates of Competence. Well done everyone. There is even a waiting list for courses starting in the summer. Many thanks to Phil Mutton our Vice Commodore and Chief Sailing Instructor together with the very able team of Brigitte Davenport, John Tremain, Jim Ridgway, Mike Parry and Terry Mitchell.

NB. Watch this space for our new and innovative “Youth Sailing Programme”.

By the time you are reading this we will have had our AGM. As usual with a happy clubs such as ours, we are not expecting any surprises in the appointment of the Committee for next year. Our Commodore Paul Hutton is anticipating that most of his Committee will volunteer to stand again and we are fortunate to have such quality volunteers to fill the vacant places. Well done our Committee, all members appreciate your commitment, energy and patience.

So, what’s the above heading about then? “PISC Cup of Kindness”. OK, first it’s not a cup but then our members are used to expecting more from this great sailing club. What say you to a beautiful engraved Tankard? The origin of the idea came from John Morren and Mike Robb two keen sailors and front runners for the posts of Rear Commodore Sailing and Deputy RCS. Mike owns a business called Safari Sports in UK which sells sports equipment and trophies, mainly to schools.

Mike has kindly sponsored a whole years supply of Tankards for a new dinghy sailing competition which the sailors have aptly named “The Monthly Mug Competition”. These monthly events run alongside the formal “Series Races” The beauty of the Monthly Mug is that it works on a handicap system, not unlike that in Golf, which gives the less experienced sailor, or even the new rookie, a chance to “come in first”. Believe you me, the shouts of “starboard” or “water at the mark” have increased exponentially as the eager sailors now begin to assert their new found authority in seeking to win a Mug. Great fun, many thanks John and Mike.

Finally, to all Holidaymakers and Residents alike, don’t forget that PISC members sail and have lots of fun every Thursday and Saturday from 10.30am to 2.30pm at Agios Georgios Harbour and Beach. Come along, say hello - you will be made very welcome. For that extra treat why not call in at the Cafe on the Beach for a tasty snack and drink, say Hi to Koula, Maria and Roula. Their smiles will make your day.

For more information about our great club go to: www.pisc.com.cy

For Sale Situated in a quiet residential cul-de-sac on the escarpment above Exo Vrisi yet only a stone’s throw from Paphos Town Hall, the Cyta Building and Makarios Avenue in the heart of Paphos.

A unique modern town house designed and built by a local award winning architect.

Open plan design on three floors with an extensive roof terrace and panoramic views to the airport in the east and the lighthouse in the west.

Accommodation comprises:Ground floor: Multipurpose room, bathroom, enclosed open atrium and storage areas.

First floor: Open plan kitchen and living room with large picture window to the panoramic view of Kato Paphos and the coast beyond.

Second floor: Large bedroom with bathroom.

Third floor: Roof terrace with electric and water points.

Fully carpeted stairs throughout.

For sale with full title deeds at 170000 Euro.

For appointment to view and fully appreciate this unique property please telephone 99 580320

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© Grapevine • May 2016