Editor’s Note
Happy Easter!
April is a month of renewal, growth, and fresh possibilities. As Cyprus bursts into bloom, so too can our lives whether through refreshing our homes, revitalizing our wellness routines, or simply embracing the joy of longer, hotter days
In this issue, we’re celebrating all things coming back to life. Restaurants are reopening and the boat trips start! You can’t miss the Black Pearl, it’s not just for tourists! As the new season bursts into bloom get ready to celebrate Easter. to simple rituals for a more mindful season, we’ve curated inspiration to help you embrace this time of transformation. WaterWorld opens on 10 April! Whoop. And as it’s Earth Day this month remember to keep our beautiful beaches clean and take away your litter! It’s one month to go to our fabulous fashion show raising money for Pasykaf at Blue Spice. Please get your tickets, just 20E and expect a fun filled night of fashion and music from the very talented Leo Romero Message me for tickets - 97827636
Open the windows, breathe in the fresh air, and dive into these pages filled with ideas to make April your most vibrant month yet Happy reading and as always, stay stylish!
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Cyprus has the lowest number of female MPs in the European Union
Only 14.3 per cent of MPs in the Cypriot government are women, ranking Cyprus the lowest among all EU countries according to a recent Eurostat study. At 14.6 per cent, Hungary ranked second to last, only slightly surpassing Cyprus, with Romania, at 19.5 per cent the countries report the lowest share of women in the national parliament in the EU. Northern EU-countries had the highest share of female representatives. Sweden ranked first at 45.6 per cent, followed by Finland at 45.5 per cent and Denmark with 44.7 per cent.
On average, the share of women in national parliaments in the EU increased to 33.4 per cent in 2024 marking a 5.6 per cent increase since 2014. On a governmental level, figures increased even more with 35.1 per cent of women holding national government seats compared to 27.7 per cent in 2014.
According to the Gender Equality Index, Cyprus has room for improvement.
The Gender Equality Index gives the EU and the Member States a score from 1 to 100. A score of 100 would mean that a country had reached full equality between women and men. Cyprus currently ranks at 60.
If recent trends continue, Cyprus will not reach gender parity in parliament by 2030. Women are also underrepresented in the economy, especially in decision-making positions, as they are only 8.2 percent of top managers in firms. Less than six in ten women are active in labour market – even when employed, they still face a gender pay gap of more than 20 percent.
SPEED DATING NIGHTS
with Charlotte Leonard
Held every 3 months across Larnaca, Limassol, Nicosia & Paphos
Tellusaboutyourdatingevents.
I started organizing Speed Dating Nights about 2 years ago after realizing how challenging it is to meet new people when you're single. Dating apps are so disappointing, too many superficial interactions, scammers and no real connections. It is clear that many men are now a days too scared to approach womeninreallife,afraidofbeingturned down. I actually went to a dating event myself about 3 years ago, it was so boring. That experience stuck with me, andImadeavowtohostabetterevent; onewherepeoplecouldactuallyinteract witheveryonewithshortquickdates.So, I researched, planned and created my own speed dating events, with 6 minute Speed Dates with each person, ensuring that no one wastes time with someone they'renotinterestedin. Howdidtheystart?
Theeventsstartedwiththatsimpleidea to improve the dating scene. I had a visionforafun,quick-pacedeventwhere people could meet a variety of singles and actually talk to everyone, without the pressure of long, awkward conversations. I wanted people to feel comfortable and enjoy the experience, ratherthanjustswipingontheirphones. Who are you aiming at (age, location, etc.)?
Myeventsareaimedatsingleslookingto meet new people, whether it's for friendship or romance. Normally the attendance is of ages between 30-65 years old. I cover all of Cyprus, with SpeedDatingEventseveryfewmonthsin either Limassol, Larnaca, Nicosia and Paphos.
Whoareyouaimingat(age,location, etc.)?
My events are aimed at singles lookingtomeetnewpeople,whether it's for friendship or romance. Normally the attendance is of ages between30-65yearsold.Icoverall ofCyprus,withSpeedDatingEvents everyfewmonthsineitherLimassol, Larnaca,NicosiaandPaphos. Howoftenaretheyheld?
Speed Dating Nights are typically held once every 3 months in different towns, depends on the demand.
Isthereamembershipfee?
No. Participants pay for each event theyattend.Thishelpstocoverthe designing of adverts, posters and tickets, promotions, printed materials and all the planning that goes into organizing a smooth, fun evening.
What can people expect from attending?
Peoplecanexpectalively,engaging eveningwheretheygettomeetnew, like-minded singles in a relaxed and fun environment. You’ll have 6 minutes with each person to chat andgettoknowthem,everyonehas adatecardtowritethedate’sname and tick yes or no if you want to meet them again. No telephone numbersareexchangedonthenight. AttheendoftheeveningIcollectall the cards and do the match making the following day. It’s an efficient waytogetoutoftheappworldand intoreal-lifeinteractions.
Have you had any success stories fromthem?
Yes,many!I’vehaddozensofpeople whohavemetatmyeventsandgone
v on to form lasting relationships. It’s one of the most fulfilling parts of what I do, hearing success stories from people who found love or built lasting friendships through the events I organize.
How long have you lived in Cyprus, and how did you end up here?
I moved to Paphos about 23 years ago, alone, when I was 18. My life has been filled with many challenges, marked by both highs and lows. The experiences I've gone through over the years have shaped me, strengthening me into the resilient and empowered woman I am today. I thrive on staying busy and active. I singlehandedly raise three incredible children and hold a private security license, having trained as a professional female security guard and bodyguard. I'm also a graphic designer, a member of the Paphos Civil Defence Search and Rescue team, I work parttime at One Door Ltd, promoting their beautiful range of interior and exterior doors. Additionally, I teach Krav Maga self-defense to women and children, I also enjoy playing tennis and Muay Thai kickboxing, organize and host my Speed Dating events and enjoy modelling in Fashion Shows. Above all, I’m passionate about inspiring and motivating others.
BENEFITS OF A CRYSTEC SPA HOT TUB
1.StressReliefandWellness
Their ability to promote relaxation and stress relief. In a time where work demands, family responsibilities, and social pressures are everincreasing, finding time to unwind is more important than ever. Hot tubs provide a sanctuary for individuals to escape from the daily grind. The soothing effects of warm water combined with massaging jets help to reduce muscletension,alleviatejointpain,andpromote better sleep. The therapeutic benefits of hot tubs,particularlyintermsofreducingstressand improving mental well-being, make them attractive.
2.EnhancedSocialExperience
Hot tubs are no longer just about solitude and relaxation; they’re a hub for social gatherings. Whetherit'sacozyeveningwithlovedonesora livelygatheringwithfriends,ahottubcreatesa unique space for conversation and bonding. Unlike other forms of entertainment, such as watching TV or playing games, a hot tub encourages connection through its relaxed and invitingatmosphere.
3.IncreasedAvailabilityandAffordability
Onceconsideredaluxuryitem,hottubsarenow moreaffordableandaccessiblethanever.Witha wider range of models available, from budgetfriendly options to high-end units, homeowners haveavarietyofchoicestosuittheirneedsand budgets. Crystec Spa has also made strides in improving the design, energy efficiency, and durability of hot tubs, making them a more practical option for the modern home and homeownerscanenjoythebenefitsofahottub withoutbreakingthebank.
4.HealthBenefits
Hottubshavelongbeenassociatedwithphysical and mental health benefits. The combination of heat and massage promotes blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and enhances muscle recovery. For people with conditions like arthritis,fibromyalgia,orchronicpain,theuseof ahottubcanofferreliefinawaythattraditional medicine or therapy might not. The gentle massage provided by the jets can help alleviate tension, making it a highly effective tool for those looking to improve their overall physical health.
If you're ready to experience the incredible benefits of owning a hot tub, Crystec Spas has the perfect solutionforyou.Theirhigh-quality,energy-efficientspasaredesignedforultimaterelaxation,wellness, and social enjoyment - bringing luxury and comfort straight to your home. With pay monthly options availableandFREEdeliveryisland-wide,owningyourdreamspahasneverbeeneasier.
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Aries(21March–19April)–
This is a time for streamlining yourlife,gettingorganized,and solving problems in practical ways Youbenefitfromasense of stability as well as positive feedback from superiors. You are also more credible and reliable, which others appreciate Romance blossoms nicelythismonth
Taurus(20April–20May )Thisisatimewhenyouaremore willing to take personal risks There may be unexpected events that free you from confining situations or past conditioning patterns. You are more inspired this month and your personality fairly bubbles withburstsofenthusiasm
Gemini(21May–20June)–Youwouldbeabletobringmore imagination to bear on your goals and ambitions now It could be an excellent period promising much success in termsofloveandrelationships, providedyouarewillingtowork onit Longdistancetravelisalso indicatedwithyourbeloved
Cancer(21June–22July)-You arelearningtorelyonyourself andtotakecareofthingsthat have undermined your confidence in yourself and in your life You might find your ideals taking a more spiritual turn,thusinvolvingyoumorein community and religious projects
Leo ( 23 July – 22 August ) - The urge for adventure and new experiences that introduce you to new cultures, beliefs, or feelings is likely very strong. Fortunate events occur as a direct result of your willingness to entertain the unusual and to think outside of the box.
Virgo 23 August–22 SeptemberSudden opportunities to expand your horizons, such as through travel, adventure, or learning can arise and jolt you out of your routine. Many of you will be strengthening relationships and, while it’s not necessarily easy going, you’ll reap the rewards later.
Libra ( 23 September – 22 October ) - Major changes in the structure of your close personal relationships, and in your attitude towards them, are in store. You are more able to get in touch with your subconscious mind, and confronting your fears can be quite pleasurable during this period.
Scorpio ( 23 October – 21 November ) - This is a time for streamlining your life, getting organized, and solving problems in practical ways. Your deep awareness of keeping track of your health and taking better care of yourself and your own needs will help you harness some of your active energy.
With Manish
Sagittarius (22 Nov -21 Dec - This period can bring closure or reevaluation to issues you have been dealing with regarding learning, communication and personal projects. Love is working in your favor from but does encounter some questions. More opportunities for, and less restrictions on, leisure time are in store for you.
Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) - Your worldly goals may be watered down as you focus more on personal affairs. Some of you might be leaning towards a more spiritual, creative, or artistic career. Superficial areas of your life will be removed or transformed, and you are freer to express your authentic self.
Aquarius (20 January – 18 February) - Your long-term goals and wishes tend to be broad or ahead of the times just now. You may particularly enjoy dreaming up ideas for the future. You may discover new interests and desires that help you to rid yourself of attachments that no longer serve you well.
Pisces (19 February – 20 March)Connections that further your career goals are made this month, and partnerships, social life and career are all tied to one another. This is a favorable time for love and romance. You will develop new friendship which will be very rewarding and helpful
STOP THE SYNTHETIC SHAMING OF WOMEN
Sunita Williams is splashed all over the media who are fixated on her appearance after being lost in space for nine months. She wasn’t chosen to go to space for her looks, her incredible military experience and 30 years experience with NASA has been completely overlooked to focus on her wrinkles and aging. Newsflash, they don’t have hairdressers and beauticians in space. She cut off her long hair and donated it to charity before a previous space mission. She is the only astronaut to complete a marathon in space. Meanwhile her colleague, Butch has cornered less than a paragraph of news reporting on his physical appearance. This boils my piss. Whether it’s the relentless scrutiny of celebrities on the red carpet or the judgment women face in their everyday lives, appearance-based criticism remains a constant. Today I opened instagram to see an advert for women over 40 to get the legs of a 20 year old. No thank you, I am not in competition with a child.
Society's obsession with women's appearances is deeply ingrained in history. For centuries, beauty has been seen as a woman's currency, a measure of her worth. Patriarchal standards created impossible ideals that shifted with the times—from ridiculous corseted silhouettes to size-zero bodies.
And we are all guilty of buying into these expectations, getting botox tweaks and downing collagen shots that promise the illusion of perfection. But perfection doesn’t exist. Any recent pictures from the Oscars will present a group of women with the same make up look. Whatever happened to individuality?
Whatever we do, we are labeled as "too much" or "not enough" — too thin, too curvy, too old, too young, too plain, too glamorous. This ridiculous pressure to meet unrealistic standards can erode selfconfidence. I too feel anxiety and self-body shame despite looking presentable after having six kids, losing an ovary that ruptured in childbirth and nearly dying on the operating table. Social media fuels these criticisms daily, no wonder GenZ are so depressed. We need to step back and remember that our value doesn’t lie in our appearance and our accomplishments are far greater than our bra and waist size. And forget the audacity of balding, mediocre men who resemble a potato who feel the need to comment on women’s appearance. That’s an entirely new irritating trend. We need to remember that beauty doesn’t fit into a box and we should embrace the diversity of body types, skin tones, and expressions of femininity.
It’s time to speak up over the harmful comments and stand up against body shaming. I almost got a Tiktok ban last week for calling out a man who felt the need to cricitise me telling me I dressed like a tart for walking down the street in my gym clothes, baring my arms and legs. And yes,I know
I post myself in bikini pictures but that is for my own self empowerment, after years of being put down by men. I do it to inspire other women that a bikini doesn’t have a sell by date past 30, and to remind myself that I have come so far in my weightloss journey. Every body is a bikini body. Speak to yourself with kindness. Treat your body as a source of strength and joy rather than an object to be judged. Your body is an incredible machine and we shouldn’t take it for granted. Some people would love to be in your shoes, literally, to be able to walk unaided or carry shopping without getting breathless.
Women are multifaceted, resilient, and powerful. We are leaders, artists, mothers, entrepreneurs, and friends. Our worth is not confined to a dress size or a wrinkle count. The next time you feel the weight of judgment, remember that your value lies in your spirit, your laughter and your passion. Our beauty is a reflection of our confidence and authenticity where every woman is free to shine, whatever shape we are.
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OUT & ABOUT IN LIMASSOL
Lemesos is one of Cyprus' liveliest cities and Cyprus’ second largest city, boasting a recently renovated charming old town, a famous palm-fringed promenade , zoo and a medieval castle to explore.
Read more at
In my opinion, every visit to Limassol should begin in the Old Town and its narrow winding streets. Some of the buildings may be crumbling but that simply adds to the charm of this area. I’d recommend wandering around, browsing shops, snapping photos of the beautiful architecture stopping only to enjoy the bars and restaurants that spread out onto the pavement. It’s dusty, it’s hot and the smell of leather lingers on every corner.
There are many hidden alleyways in the Old Town too so you’ll never know what you might find. I loved the one with a beautiful view leading up to the Great Mosque.
The bustling city of Limassol offers something for everyone; whether you’re looking to explore the historic old town, marvel at pristine super yachts in the marina, party until the sun comes up or wander slowly along a palm-tree lined promenade.
Every visitor to Cyprus should spend at least one day in Limassol though it’s probably not the place to stay if you’re looking for a resort style town with golden sand beaches.
Having said that, there are some beautiful hotels on the coastline that seemingly stretches ever further with the ongoing development in the city.
As a kid, Limassol was the place we’d visit for our big food shop, for a new skateboard or the Adidas Superstar trainers that were all the rage back in 2002. Limassol is a relatively ordinary city for most Cypriots who go about their daily lives however, but there’s much more to the city than first meets the eye.
The Molos Promenade lined with palm trees is a lovely place to wander especially as the temperature cools. There are playgrounds, walkways across water features, piers that stretch out to sea plus cafes and restaurants.
At the heart of the Old Town is the medieval Limassol Castle. Whilst the current castle dates back to the 16th century, it is said that Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Naverre on this site crowning her the Queen of England. The castle houses the Medieval Museum of Cyprus which, for those that enjoy museums, is a great way to learn more about the history of this island. Limassol Marina is a modern development south of the Old Town, filled with high-end shops, restaurants and bars, luxury villas and super yachts. The marina opened in 2014 and is an example of the ongoing development of Cyprus. I don’t necessarily think that Cyprus has lost its charm but (seeing skyscrapers in Limassol is odd though) but it’s clear that Cyprus is changing with the influx of money.
Easter is the most significant religious event in Cyprus, with week-long celebrations, midnight church services, candle-lit processions, and traditional feasts.
The Easter celebrations in Cyprus are a unique blend of religious and cultural practices. The Cypriot Orthodox Church plays a vital role in the festivities, and the entire community comes together to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
On Holy Thursday “Flaounes” are baked. Flaounes are made of short crust with cheese, egg, raisings and mint filling. All the family will gather from early in the morning and will help bake them. Also in the same day they dye eggs (hard boiled) to symbolise Christ’s Blood from the Cross. The crucifixion of Christ is on that day so people go to church in the evening to “mourn”. The Church’s icons are covered with black veils to show their grief.
EasterinCyprus 20April
“Epitafios” is on Holy Friday. Everyone takes flowers to the church to decorate the Epitafios or Holy Sepulchre. The procession starts after the evening service. Young men carry the “Epitafios” outside the Church around the neighbourhood and back to the church, people follow the “Epitafios” the whole time.
On Holy Saturday, the Cypriot Orthodox Church holds a midnight mass, which is the most important event of the Easter celebrations. At midnight, the church bells ring out, and people light candles to symbolize the resurrection of Christ. The service is followed by a traditional meal of “magiritsa,” a soup made from lamb offal, They also crack dyed, eggs and say “Christos Anesti” which means “Christ has risen from the dead.”
Easter Monday is all about traditional games such as egg and spoon race, sack race, donkey race and Ditzimin(weight lifting game),Zizyros(Cicada),t he camel jump and much more. These Easter traditions usually take place in villages and small communities. Overall, Easter in Cyprus is a time of great joy, celebration, and reflection. It is a unique blend of religious and cultural practises, and it is an occasion that brings the entire community together. Whether you are a visitor or a resident, experiencing Easter in Cyprus is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
Easter Sunday is a day for family gatherings and feasting, and many Cypriots will roast a whole lamb on a spit. This is a time for joy and celebration, with music and dancing.
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