14 minute read
Limassol Future Forward
Limassol: Future Forward
text by Yiota Mallas & Emily Millett
Limassol is emerging as a vibrant lifestyle hub, where the living is easy and the options are aplenty. Through the voice of some of the city’s champions, we celebrate key facets of Limassol that have captured local and international attention.
“Wellness is my life’s passion,” says clinical exercise physiologist and spa expert George Tavelis, pausing to take a sip of his banana protein smoothie, before outlining his daily routine. It’s a routine which revolves around exercise, healthy eating and living well – alongside all the duties associated with running the Sanctum Spa at Limassol Marina. In this role, the self-confessed disciplinarian applies over 25 years worth of experience in opening and managing spas across Europe.
Although his career path led him to various dynamic, forward-thinking hubs such as New York and Mexico City, George cannot see himself living anywhere but his native home-turf of Limassol. And since his return, he has been a passionate advocate for the unique wellness appeal and plethora of healthy living options that the city offers. “For me, Limassol is a wellness city,” he says with a certainty that induces instant confidence and conviction. “It’s got the energy, the environment and the potential to encourage and inspire people to adopt a wellness lifestyle. Wherever you are in Limassol, in 5-15 minutes you can be on the seafront,” he says. “Every morning you see hundreds of people there exercising, all year round. You wake up and you have sunshine, great weather, the sea and endless choices.”
As George suggests, wellness has an individual dimension, and Limassol offers a wealth of wellness opportunities to match all needs – whether that’s sitting by the sea to de-stress, eating organic, doing sunrise yoga, seaside meditation, or outdoor Zumba classes. “Limassol makes it easy to relieve stress. The sea, the climate, the facilities we have created in Limassol and at Limassol Marina… it’s a combination of privileges that makes a huge difference and can change lives.”
The Place to Be Although Limassol itself facilitates and encourages wellness-centric living, according to George, the only place to be if you really want to live the lifestyle is Limassol Marina. “We eat, sleep and breath wellness here,” he explained. “Not only does the Marina offer all the supporting infrastructure to live well – with homes right on the sea and boats moored at your doorstep – we also have a world-class fitness centre and spa, and the restaurants offer healthier choices.”
The fact that George was the first person to be approached to start a business on-site is evidence that wellness has always been a focal point of Limassol Marina. It was a decision driven by a vision for the area to become the wellness hub of Limassol. “You can’t offer an exclusive luxury lifestyle without the wellness dimension,” he explained. And indeed, the arrival of Limassol Marina heralded a new culture of wellness and an upgraded lifestyle opportunity for the city’s multicultural residents and visitors.
Looking ahead, George firmly believes in the powerful impact of the Marina: Not only did it reset the benchmark of wellness by raising both the standards and the quality of life, but it also continues to support Limassol’s role as a wellness hub.
George Tavelis is helping shape Limassol into a wellness destination.
“Limassol Marina really put Limassol on the wellness map, cementing its place as a wellness destination. And now all the new developments in Limassol must live up to the expectations and standards that have been set here.”
A Wellness Community According to George, the trend in today’s international wellness scene is for ‘wellness communities’ – something he believes is already built into the very fabric of Limassol.
“In Limassol we are a whole wellness community on our own,” he laughs, adding that wellness is as much about healthy living as it is about networking. “There are a lot of different groups that people can join: yoga groups, meditation groups, winter swimmers, walking groups, biking groups.” But what really brought this community together was the Marina, which he describes as “the wellness network of Limassol”.
The community is also thriving outside the Marina, thanks to an annual schedule of wellness focused events and activities designed to bring like-minded people together. Key events include the Limassol Marathon and the Global Wellness Weekend, which was first launched by George, as the Global Wellness Ambassador.
Given that the new-build developments currently under construction in Limassol will have their own cutting-edge spas, wellness centres and fitness facilities, George believes people will choose to buy property or to start businesses here because of the facilities and infrastructure on offer.
Crediting wellness as the catalyst for greater achievements and success, George is convinced that a healthy body leads to a clear, calm and alert mind, and a happier more relaxed attitude towards life. His advice for anyone looking to lead a more wellness focused lifestyle in Limassol? “Wellness applies to every aspect of life, not just physical exercise. Start slow, walk along the seafront every day, try to recycle, eat organic, sleep early, spend time with your family.”
In the eyes of every culture enthusiast in Cyprus, Limassol reigns as an unrivalled crowd-pleaser. Over the past two decades the city has experienced an unprecedented explosion of artistic talent. The establishment of the Rialto Theatre in 1999 was a pivotal moment in this new phase in Limassol culture; it was also the moment that Georgia Doetzer embarked on the mission of a lifetime as Rialto Theatre’s Chief Executive. Since then, Limassol has earned its title as a leading cultural hub of the Mediterranean. Developments in the arts scene have made it the go-to address for exceptional performances in music, cinema, drama, dance and opera.
Georgia is part of a community of creatives that have witnessed first-hand how cultural activity has dramatically altered the face of Limassol. The location chosen for the Rialto Theatre was an abandoned Art Deco cinema in the historic Heroes Square, which in the late 1990’s was a visibly neglected neighbourhood of Limassol. “This was certainly not a desirable part of town back then; it had a reputation for red-light activity, so it took time to attract large audiences to the area,” says Georgia. Despite the obstacles, Georgia succeeded in guiding the evolution of Rialto into a reputable symbol of Limassol’s cultural scene. Among its annual events are six festivals under government auspices: two festivals dedicated to dance, the Cyprus Film Days, an international short film festival, and the Cyprus Jazz and World Music Showcase. Without a doubt, Rialto has reignited the lost glory of the old town, and today the neighbourhood is a unique space of creativity and energy.
Standing Ovation The success story of the old town is a reflection of the shift in Limassol’s cultural outlook. “In the past, concert performances in Cyprus were reserved for the summer months, and movie theatres had limited screenings during the week. But pioneering movements in leisure and entertainment have ushered in a vibrant cultural agenda all year round,” says Georgia.
Today Limassol is peppered with venues hosting thought-provoking and imaginative performances for all tastes. The turn of the century heralded the creation of Limassol’s sculpture park, a feature of the promenade towards Limassol Marina. This collection of seventeen works stands as an important and eye-catching cultural space. The archaeological site of Curium is a timeless figurehead of Limassol’s cultural tradition. Its multitude of drama, music and opera performances are a reminder of the city’s rich heritage.
As a matter of policy, Limassol imports international talent in order to expose local audiences to alternative ideas and concepts. “For example, at Rialto we host live broadcasts from iconic cultural centres such as New York’s Metropolitan Opera and London’s Royal Ballet and National Theatre. Rialto is also home to its very own World Music Festival, which takes place every year in July in the starlit Heroes Square.” Such activity demonstrates how Limassol opens a window to remarkable talent from countless ethnicities, thereby nurturing the city’s spirit of tolerance and acceptance.
Curtain Call The adventurous strand of Limassol’s DNA is demonstrated through the appearance of new venues of a more experimental nature. “It’s a cultural movement where the initiatives have a clear local character, but at the same time are distinctly outward-looking,” says Georgia. She admires the long-standing contribution of the Patticheio Municipal Theatre, as well additions by the younger generation. Many worthy initiatives by rising stars have emerged in recent years, such as the MITOS Centre of Performing Arts, Theatro Ena and Ethal Art Space.
Limassol has come a long way and altered the cultural map of Cyprus, which traditionally had been monopolised by Nicosia. “Especially in the field of dance, our local talent has rocketed in innovative centres such as ‘Stegi’, with its avantgarde choreography,” says Georgia. The appeal of Limassol’s infrastructure plays a vital role in its high standing. “The facilities that have developed over the past twenty years and are now available to the visiting intellectual and creative are simply extraordinary. The long-stretched seafront is now the most desirable thoroughfare of the island; the marina is a bustling focal point; and the university has an inspiring presence in the historic centre,” says Georgia.
The integration of foreign residents and investors into society has subjected Limassol’s art scene to a wider spectrum of influences. It is a city that thrives on its constant cultural dialogue, which has become ever more fruitful in the age of advanced technology. Georgia says: “Limassol’s evolution proves that culture is the invisible force stimulating every urban setting. Thanks to our international audience, this cosmopolitan vibe sparks fresh inspiration for every cultural newcomer.”
The foothills of Limassol’s wine region are a harmonious blend of history and innovation. A portfolio of award-winning wine labels tells the story of families that have transcended tradition and embraced modernisation in order for their craft to survive. These leading producers have repeatedly raised their glass to Andreas Emmanouil for his invaluable contribution to their profession.
Throughout his career, Andreas has supported the wine-making community of Cyprus with his knowledge of oenology and viticulture. “The mountain villages hold remnants of ancient winemaking rituals. The mud-brick houses are where wine filled scores of clay pots,” he explains. The vine once defined the identity and daily activity of every Limassol farmer, and in the course of his career, Andreas has witnessed the transition of Cyprus wine-making from folk pastime to refined artisanship.
As a Ministry of Agriculture officer and later professor at the Cyprus University of Technology, Andreas mapped out the way for wine producers to transform their humble acreage into commercial opportunity. “Our research, studies and training provided them with the know-how required to cultivate extensive vineyards successfully,” says Andreas. “At the laboratory of viticulture we welcomed students who blossomed into today’s leading winery owners,” he says.
Roots and Reign Limassol’s wine-making practice is a deep-rooted tradition of ancient origin. It was the work of acclaimed archaeologist Maria Rosaria Belgiorno that confirmed Limassol’s grand alliance with wine. Her excavations revealed vessels dating back to 3000 BC that contained traces of wine composition.
Limassol holds a protected designation of origin for its Commandaria region, a name given to the fusion of the indigenous mavro and xynisteri grape to create a premium dessert wine. “The Krasochoria (wine villages) are often labelled the island’s ‘green heart’, but I would say Limassol’s heart is ruby red with all this Commandaria,’ says Andreas. In ancient times, the concoction was referred to as ‘Nama’ until the island’s conquest by the Knights’ Templar in the 12th century. Richard the Lionheart ruled the region of ‘La Grande Commandarie’ and the wine’s label was revised in turn. “This area of the Troodos mountains offers the very best climate, altitude and soil for quality wine, which is why the practice has outlived every conqueror,” says Andreas.
The vineyards around Kolossi Castle – also known as the ‘Grande Commanderie’ – produce the grapes for the famous Cyprus dessert wine, Commandaria.
Authentic Aromas Alongside this rich history, Limassol is the home of some of the island’s finest labels. Andreas has witnessed the emergence of sophisticated wineries graced with modern processes and supported by the very best external consultants. Indeed, Limassol now boasts a line-up of impressive boutique wineries that strictly cultivate their own vines and produce limited bottles with beautifully designed labels.
“Just outside Limassol, Hadjiantonas has a great assortment of wines. Towards Platres, the wineries of Vlassides and Tsiakkas are symbols of constant innovation. Argyrides in Vasa village is another pioneer in the field; they have harmoniously integrated novel approaches while maintaining the character of their traditional family home,” says Andreas. Ayia Mavri in Koilani has earned international recognition after its muscat of Alexandria won accolades at several ‘Muscats du Monde’ conventions. Each label carries its own story of struggle and dedication, which has been redeemed with success.
Through the Grapevine This portfolio of wine excellence has become a national treasure, and wine enthusiasts can follow the Cyprus Tourism Organisation’s maps and guides to discover – and taste – its wealth. September’s annual wine festival is a ten-day extravaganza where the mountain producers congregate in the centre of Limassol to celebrate their harvest. Andreas was pivotal in the launch of Wine Month, a November highlight that sees wineries opening their doors on weekends, hosting wine tastings and seminars for the public to explore. Wine lovers can go one step further and experience Andreas’s work within the Cyprus Oenophile Club.
Since 1998 it has been disseminating information regarding the production and evaluation of wine, as well as informing audiences on wine tasting techniques and food pairings. In 2016 the club launched its ‘Wine Connoisseur’ programme which offers contestants a certified learning experience of training and assessment related to sommelier skills. This community of wine experts gave rise to the Cyprus Sommeliers’ Association in 2014, with Andreas as its Honorary President. “It is a wonderful forum for every discerning wine professional, offering a stepping stone to the international stage. I have had the privilege of training award-winning sommeliers that have represented Cyprus in high-profile competitions,” says Andreas.
The Grape Escape Limassol’s wine legacy has no bounds, and yet there are future goals awaiting completion. Great efforts are being made to have the Commandaria region listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Through his work as an international wine judge, Andreas monitors the latest trends that are putting Cyprus wines in the spotlight. “Today’s patrons of wine wish to explore the indigenous grape varieties of each country,” says Andreas. “Thankfully, our local producers have made a conscious shift towards their native crop.” Old varieties of white grape such as morokanella, spourtiko and promara are being rediscovered, and the cultivation of yiannoudi and vamvakada are further enriching our experience of Cyprus reds. This age-old practice is in full bloom, and from the dining table to the winery, fresh bouquets of aroma are waiting to be savoured.
Unlike a great deal of her fellow island inhabitants, Limassol Tourism Board’s manager Maria Stylianou Michaelidou regularly parks her car far from her office and deliberately walks the extra 15 minutes to work – not only for the “absolute pleasure of walking,” but also as part of a huge personal effort to minimise the footprint she leaves on the planet. You see, Maria doesn’t just talk the talk; she also walks the walk as a committed campaigner for greener and more sustainable living in Limassol. And while her job includes spearheading the plethora of innovative green mobility initiatives currently being rolled out across town, Maria also does her best as a mother and citizen to apply and promote environmental protection practices to every aspect of her own life.
Sustainable Living by the Sea Although she credits her sustainable conscience to years spent abroad, Maria is a firm believer that people living – or striving for – a more sustainable lifestyle, can easily do so in Limassol. The city’s trajectory towards urban sustainability is further boosted by a stunning urban coastal landscape and beautiful year-round weather that is perfect for spending time outdoors.
Citing her own sustainable interaction with the city as an example, the Nicosia-born and Limassolraised environmentalist talks with passion about making the most of the growing infrastructure, by cycling and hiking in and around Limassol with her family.
“In Limassol there are a lot of opportunities to spend quality time doing something fun, interesting and interactive as a family, group of friends or colleagues – without compromising sustainability. We have a beautiful coastline with its own wonderful seaside cycling and walking path, which thousands of people use every day,” she points out, adding that the city also hosts a packed schedule of events and activities encouraging people to live a better and greener life.
The wealth of green mobility initiatives – which Maria is instrumental in setting up across the city and surrounding areas – are making sustainable living much easier, while simultaneously adding value to the Limassol experience and helping to bring about a better quality of life for everyone in the city.
Aimed at encouraging tourists and locals to walk, cycle or use public transport, these initiatives include the introduction of the first ever telematics system in Cyprus on bus routes in Limassol, the debut of a tourist mobility card, the expansion of the bike sharing and electric car networks, and the creation of dedicated hiking and walking routes in the town centre and outskirts, complete with information about noteworthy landmarks along the way.
“We are trying to find ways to get people to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, but instead of doing it by car, to be outside walking or on a bicycle,” she says. “And Limassol now provides convenient, comfortable, cost effective solutions. You save time because you don’t have to tackle traffic, you save money, you reduce stress, and you enrich your experience.”
Taking a Contemporary Approach The Limassol public’s engagement with these initiatives has been impressive, leading to a significant increase in the number of people eager to adjust to greener living.
“Sustainable travel is an international trend that tourists increasingly demand; but Limassol residents themselves are also embracing the trend and welcoming the positive side effects, as readily available sustainable solutions result in less traffic, less noise, fresher air and less stress. We have seen that especially the younger generations are keen to change their ways and make a difference.”
While significant strides have already been made in the effort to pave the way towards greener living in Limassol, there is still a way to go. The plan is to bring the city in line with modern, forward-thinking sustainable cities across Europe. Although the initiatives already in place are helping to further the goal, there are many more exciting ideas and projects in the works, whose implementation will reinforce the city’s reputation as the hub of urban green living in Cyprus.
This year, Maria and her team are debuting a Green Label award scheme for hotels that meet specific green criteria and go the extra green mile to offer sustainability solutions and services. Limassol Marina is also on track for further sustainable improvements. The area already enjoys better air quality thanks to the exclusive use of electric vehicles, and plans are under way to expand the coastal cycling and walking path to connect the Marina with the new port.
“The quality of life that Limassol can offer appeals to both foreigners and locals, but we believe that we can make this even better in the future through sustainable solutions,” she explains.
Looking to the future, Maria dreams of a pedestrianised Limassol where there are fewer cars, cleaner air and an even better quality of life; where car lanes and parking areas are replaced by more trees, green areas, bicycle lanes, walking areas and free public space. “Limassol is open to change in this direction, and there is growing interest. We already work with many business owners who are ready, willing and able to invest in a greener Limassol, for residents and visitors to enjoy.”
