I S S U E
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S U M M E R
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A MAGAZINE FOR THE GUESTS OF THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL LIMASSOL
THE NEW ART OF COLORS THE CURTAIN RISES ON LIMASSOL’S UNRIVALLED HOTSPOT HANDCRAFTED HERITAGE TRADITIONAL CYPRUS BASKETS MAKE A COMEBACK QI FOR TWO A TAILORED SPA JOURNEY IN THE COUPLES SUITE AT THE SHISEIDO SPA
unveiling U N D E R S TAT E D G RA N D E U R
W E L C O M E m e ssa g e
THE FOUR SEASONS POLICY OF REGULAR AND INNOVATIVE UPGRADES IS ONCE AGAIN CLEARLY VISIBLE ACROSS VARIOUS FACILITIES AND IS COMBINED WITH THE GENUINELY GUEST-FOCUSED HOSPITALITY THAT HAS ALWAYS DEFINED THE HOTEL.
experience the
EXTRAORDINARY It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the Four Seasons in Limassol. Our hotel stands out as a family owned resort where personal involvement and a passion for excellence are evident in the meaningful changes we make every year, in order to offer you a new and polished environment every time you visit. Whether you are among our regular guests or a first-time visitor, we trust you will enjoy the latest upgrades and will share your views with any member of our team. Last year’s complete remodelling of the Four Seasons was aligned with the latest design trends in luxury living, enhanced with specialized technology. This year, a series of new facilities and upgrades take resort hospitality to an even higher level of contemporary sophistication. Especially for families, six all-new 2-bedroom suites have enriched our collection of different room types for every preference and purpose. The brand new soft play area at the kids club and the teens activities programme will make family holidays even more enjoyable. The Beach Studios now feature a private outdoor patio with jacuzzi, while adults seeking privacy and tranquillity will appreciate the unique CHRISTOS MOUSKIS Executive Chairman
dimensions of luxury and design in our fully reinvented Garden Studios and Suites. The culmination of luxurious accommodation has been achieved in the Four Seasons Residences, which have just been completed and rank as the most exclusive residences in Cyprus, some of which are available for holiday bookings.
On the ground floor of the Residences, the doors have opened to the completely recreated Colors Café. In terms of design, ambience and menu, the new Colors resonates with the most stylish cosmopolitan venues around the world. This sets the tone for the changes to come, as we reinforce the Four Seasons’ reputation as the unrivalled leader in personalized, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the friends of the Four Seasons for their continued loyalty and wish all our guests an enjoyable stay.
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guest-centered hospitality in Cyprus.
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ALFRED SOFA RIVIERA COFFEE TABLE MEMOIRE ARMCHAIR JACQUES COFFEE TABLE CARMEN OTTOMAN
www.flexform.it
6 Menandrou Str, 1066 Nicosia, Cyprus Tel. +357 22873748 Fax +357 22873749 info@casamia.com.cy www.casamia.com.cy
PUBLISHER Tasos Polydorou CREATIVE DIRECTOR / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Eleni Polydorou eleni@polydoroudesign.com EDITOR Dina Mylordou EDITORIAL CO-ORDINATOR Paula Manoli SENIOR DESIGNER Maria Nicolaou ADVERTISING SALES Katerina Kyprianou katerina@polydoroudesign.com CONTRIBUTORS Jessica Bracey Alexander Davidian Yiota Mallas Paula Manoli Emily Millett Michaela Mobley Dina Mylordou Alix Norman PHOTOGRAPHY Louca Studios Christos Papantoniou Dinah Kaprou Antonis Engrafou DEC Audiovisual Photography PRINT PRODUCTION Laser Graphics Ltd
THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL P.O.Box 57222, CY-3313 Limassol, Cyprus Tel: +357 2585 8000, Fax: +357 2531 0887 E-mail: inquiries@fourseasons.com.cy www.fourseasons.com.cy
PUBLISHED ON BEHALF OF THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BY: T&E Polydorou Design Ltd P.O.BOX 40353, 6303 Larnaca, Cyprus www.polydoroudesign.com
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Inside 1 13 15 26 39 43 46 50 54
EXPERIENCE THE EXTRAORDINARY Message from the Executive Chairman SOCIALLY ENGAGING
Welcome message from the Executive Director FOUR SEASONS NEWS News, Events and Special Occasions LIMASSOL DIARY Don’t miss the main highlights of Limassol’s cultural scene ACCOMMODATION RECREATED Guest accommodation at the Four Seasons reaches new heights HOLIDAY HAPPINESS Welcome to a world of children’s fun and adventure OUT AND ABOUT TEENS Introducing a new programme of activities dedicated to teenagers QI FOR TWO A tailored spa journey in the Couples Suite at the Shiseido Spa AT YOUR SERVICE Meet the Four Seasons Management Team
The title and all material are protected by copyright and all rights are reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s permission. Although the greatest care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this magazine at the time of going to press, neither the Publisher nor The Four Seasons Hotel can accept responsibility for omissions or errors.
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THE NEW ART OF COLORS The curtain rises on Limassol’s unrivalled hotspot
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50 78 84 86 90 96
The Seafood Bar presents a new menu of epicurean pleasures DINEAROUND A gourmet excursion exclusively for Four Seasons guests GLORIOUS GUIGAL
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The Four Seasons hosts Monsieur Marcel Guigal, the man behind ‘The World’s Most Admired French Wine Brand’ HANDCRAFTED HERITAGE Traditional Cyprus baskets make a comeback ARTISTIC ARCHIVE
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The Centre of Visual Arts and Research in Nicosia earns international recognition LIMASSOL’S BOOK OF BEACHES Your inch by inch guide to the waterfront at your doorstep GREEN AND COMPETITIVE Cyprus hosts cleantech entrepreneurs ISLAND OF INCENTIVES Cyprus attracts individual and corporate investors INSIDE STORY Four Seasons Bars Manager George Michael
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104 108 112 114
SAVOURING SUMMER
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Marc Cain Store | 230, Makariou III Ave. | Limassol | Tel. +357 25 029 400 | Mob. + 357 99 573 752 Marc Cain Store in Store | 36, Georgiou A’ Str. | Natia House | Limassol | Tel. +357 25 313 126 www.marc-cain.com
W E L C O M E m e ssa g e
WHILE MANY COMPANIES USE SOCIAL MEDIA PURELY FOR BASIC INTERNET MARKETING TO PROMOTE A PRODUCT OR SERVICE, THE FOUR SEASONS WELCOMES THIS CONTEMPORARY, DIRECT AND INSTANT MEANS OF BUILDING RAPPORT WITH GUESTS AROUND THE WORLD.
Socially
ENGAGING In today’s world, the term ‘engagement’ seldom means a solemn vow between
two people who are betrothed to be married! No, instead it conjures up images of thousands of social media junkies engrossed in Facebook, Twitter, Linked-in, Instagram and other global one-to-all instant communication channels! At the Four Seasons Cyprus, we like to engage with our customers online almost as much as face to face! We recognize social media as an ideal tool to build ongoing relationships with our guests around the world. Nearly 14 years ago I started developing the hotel’s online and social media brand one step at a time, and now we have our own Digital Marketing Manager who is dedicated to consistent online brand management. Many of our guests now prefer to communicate with us via digital channels. On a daily basis, guests may write to me directly or to other members of the team using email, messenger, viber, sms, Facebook, or TripAdvisor, and they rightly expect a quick response, as they are essentially engaged in a high-speed, personal relationship with the hotel. In many cases, guests who book their holidays at the Four Seasons in response to one of our social media marketing campaigns are likely to also post a review using the same platform, normally TripAdvisor. No doubt, the speed of the internet generates many opportunities for the hotel industry. Evidence marketing may have always been the best form of promotion; but where it once was done by ‘word of mouth’ from one to another, today it happens by ‘click of mouse’, from one to millions! I would like to thank all our enthusiastic guests who have become brand ambassadors. Our social media savvy customers have given us the highest engagement rate of any hotel in Cyprus; and the more we delight you, the more you will Facebook and Instagram your Four Seasons experience. Thank you for choosing to stay with us, and please do engage with our
NICK ARISTOU Executive Director
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team during your stay; you can be sure they will respond!
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BOGNER LIMASSOL SAGA B O U TI Q U E
3 6 G e o rgio u A‘, G e rm a s o g e i a
20 5 , M a ka rio u I I I Ave . , Lim a s s o l .
Te l .+ 3 57 2 5 02 878 8
Te l .+ 3 57 2 5 020 0 8 2 | M o b . + 3 57 9 9 57 3752
bogner.com
F O U R S E A S O N S n e ws
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HOTEL EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
ANNUAL AWARDS No matter how many awards the Four Seasons receives every year, every one is special; because each award reflects the satisfaction and delight of different holidaymakers, coming from different countries and via different tour operators. One of the most valued recent awards granted to the hotel this year was the British Airways Award for Customer Excellence. The Four Seasons was the only hotel in Cyprus to receive this award, which is based strictly on guest feedback. The overwhelmingly positive guest comments also delivered the TripAdvisor Travelers Choice 2017 certificate – the latest addition to a string of TripAdvisor awards – and the HolidayCheck Award 2017. ‘Package holidays you can trust’ is the tagline of Jet2Holidays, yet another tour operator that recognized the superior standards of the Four Seasons, as expressed in the company’s Quality Award. Different in nature yet equally important was the ‘Best Partners 2016’ award which both the Four Seasons and its associate hotel, the Amathus Beach, received recently from Biblio Globus. At the core of all these awards is the Four Seasons’ commitment to high standards of hospitality and best practices in general.
Our winning
GUESTS
The guest questionnaires that you receive via email the day after your departure from the hotel is more valuable to the Four Seasons than you might realize. In fact, your feedback usually inspires the changes you notice in the hotel every year.
To thank you for taking the time to share your opinion, the Four Seasons’ quarterly guest questionnaire The winners of the first quarter of 2017 were Mrs Margarita and Alexandra Gridina from Moscow, who will enjoy their prize in September 2017, while Mr & Mrs Bernard and Janet Connor from Market Drayton, UK, were the winners of the second quarter of this year and returned in July. The winner of the third quarter 2016 prize draw, Mrs Elena Bochkareva from Moscow, enjoyed her prize in June 2017. So, fill out your questionnaire – the next prize could be yours!
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prize draw offers the winner free accommodation for two, for a week, subject only to room availability.
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F O U R S E A S O N S news
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Four Seasons
GOES MOBILE
As cell phones are increasingly evolving into all-in-one devices, and so many choices and decisions are made on the go, the Four Seasons has now taken guest communication to the mobile level. The new Four Seasons app, which can be downloaded from either the App Store or Playstore, is packed with details regarding room types, dining options, as well as leisure and entertainment at the hotel. In addition, it can guide you to places of interest in and around Limassol. Book your next holiday at the Four Seasons and the scope of the app expands significantly: Your confirmation email from the hotel will provide a personal username and password to access a host of guest services. Via the app you can check in online, reserve your table for dinner at the hotel, and book all your preferred spa treatments at the Four Seasons Shiseido Spa. Personal requests can also be forwarded to the hotel, such as special dietary requirements, equipment or services for babies or toddlers, or flowers and champagne in the room upon arrival. Possibly the most common request is for transfers from the airport to the hotel, and the most practical feature is that the app allows your phone – instead of your key card – to open your hotel room. Download the Four Seasons app now… you’ll love it!
THE CORPORATE CONNECTION
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Although Antonio Cassera is a recent addition to the Four Seasons management team, he has actually been very close – literally – to the Four Seasons since the year 2000, when he joined the Sales & Marketing Department of the Amathus Beach Hotel next door. In 2014 he glided into the role of Sales Manager when Muskita Hotels – the company that owns and operates the Four Seasons – took over the Management of the Amathus. This year Antonio formally stretched his wingspan across both the Amathus and the Four Seasons when he was appointed Group Corporate Sales Manager dedicated to the corporate clients of both hotels. Having watched the market for 16 years, Antonio sees the trends – and draws conclusions: “Technology has radically changed the marketplace,” he says. “It drew a straight line between hotels and guests; it gave birth to online reservations, and it delivers unlimited information.” On the one hand, this benefits both travellers and hotels. On the other hand, technology has also changed the nature of the competition. Travellers can easily compare not only hotels within the same country, but across a whole region. Antonio is well aware of both the challenges and the opportunities, and his goal for the Amathus and the Four Seasons is clear: “We believe in quality, not quantity. Better, not bigger. My aim is to develop relations with our existing corporate clients to ensure they get the very best product and service.”
Лимассол | Limassol Saga Boutique 1 36,Georgiou A’ Street, Tel. 25 313126 Saga Boutique 2 205 Arch. Makariou III Ave. Tel. 25 020082 Saga Boutique 3 Makariou III Ave., Maximos Plaza, Tel. 25 582820 Saga Outlet 83, Georgiou A’ Street, Tel. 25 321839 Baldinini Store 205 Arch. Makariou III Ave. Tel. 25 025577 Marc Cain Store 230, Arch. Makariou III Ave. Tel. 25 029400 Bogner Store 36, Georgiou A’ Street, Tel. 25 028 788 Mobile. +357 99 435172, +357 99 573752 | Facebook.com/SagaBoutiqueCyprus
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SUMMER
Spectacle
This summer, the Four Seasons theme nights feature three completely revised shows that will transform your poolside dinners into an extraordinary experience. SHOWTIME SPECIAL - every Monday The ever popular Showtime Special theme has evolved, with an all-new series of performers. The new dinner concept features five different buffet stations offering you the delights of the five gourmet restaurants of the Four Seasons and Amathus Hotel: Vivaldi by Mavrommatis, Seasons Oriental, the Seafood Bar, The Grill Room, and Limanaki Fish Restaurant. While you enjoy the best of international cuisine, prepare to be dazzled by a roller skating duo, a sand painter, handstand acrobatics, the extraordinary hula hoop girl, and the world-famous aerial straps performer Oleg Chudan. An evening unlike any other… CYPRUS FEAST - every Wednesday This evening is a complete sensory experience of every aspect of Cyprus culture. Before, during and after dinner, different stands demonstrate examples of Cyprus cottage industries that are still alive in rural areas. Witness the artisanal production of halloumi, palouze and zivania, and watch iconographers, Lefkara lace makers and rush weavers at work. Dinner focuses on authentic homestyle Cyprus cooking, prepared with a food lover’s attention to quality and personal care. A 5-member orchestra entertains you with folk music from Cyprus and Greece, while the 7-member dance group performs traditional folk dances including the famous glass dancing.
THE FOUR SEASONS THEME NIGHTS run from June till the end of October and feature world-class performances to accompany your
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themed dining experience.
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SALSA BBQ NIGHT - every Friday This reinvention of the Four Seasons Salsa Night will charm you out of your seat and on to the dance floor. Dinner includes sizzling meats, fish and poultry, accompanied by an overwhelming display of starters, side dishes and salads. The 7-member Latin band will have you tapping and moving to the irresistible rhythm within minutes, while four Salsa dancers do their magic steps and swivels. For guests staying at the hotel, Salsa BBQ Night actually starts… in the morning! At 11 o’clock, an instructor will be waiting for you near the pool bar for a Salsa crash course to make sure you can dance the night away.
OFFICIAL CORNER IN CYPRUS Tiffany Boutique Limassol Olympic Residence Towers, 28th October Street, Tel. +357 25582777 TiffanyBoutiqueCyprus tiffanyboutiquecy www.tiffany-boutique.com
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ARTISTIC
Additions
Few changes around the hotel generate as many questions as the two new pieces of art that have been homed at the Four Seasons. The powerful colour burst on the wall in the lobby shows the creative
force and masterful technique of Francois d’Izarny, the only student of the celebrated Expressionist artist, Bernard Buffet. This world of emotions on canvas cannot go unnoticed. On the Vista terrace, a very different white marble sculpture is equally abstract and engaging. Weighing 1000kg, it depicts two interwoven volumes whose eye-catching, subtle interaction stimulates the imagination. Designed by Valentino Thellos, the sculpture’s geometrical precision could not have been achieved without computational design, a departure from traditional sculpting techniques. Enjoy these new decorative highlights!
VISTA VIBES
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The Vista Terrace has always been a prime summer evening venue, where the view, the vibes and atmosphere are combined in a perfectly balanced formula for summertime magic. What’s new this year is the enriched entertainment programme, with new and different performers every evening of the week. Visit the Vista every day from Monday to Sunday, and no two nights will be the same, but all will guarantee the right mood music to help you relax and enjoy your evening under the stars. Whether you prefer to share drinks with friends at the Vista Bar or on the Terrace, or enjoy the delicacies at the Seafood Bar, soothing sounds and melodies accompanied by the mild sea breeze await you between 8pm and midnight. Mondays: ANGELOS & VILENA (piano, voice) Tuesdays: GREGORY KERIAN (guitar, piano, voice) Wednesdays: CHRISTOS AND GEORGIA Christou (piano, voice) Thursdays: ANGELOS AND ZOE (piano, voice) Fridays: CHRISTOS CHRISTOU AND SINGERS (piano, voice) Saturdays: GINO AND SANDRA (guitar, voice) Sundays: SOFT DJ MUSIC
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Let’s talk
FASHION
The Four Seasons in-house boutique has established itself as a fashionista’s destination, a treasure trove for those who value haute couture for every occasion. Every season, Fashion
Director Mary Chrysostomou combs the international fashion centres to identify the latest collections that will appeal to her clientele in terms of design and materials, wearability and individuality. In addition to the classic favourites, her top pick for Fall/Winter 2017 is already on its way: Armani Collezione. This exclusive line of readyto-wear for men and women is Armani’s venture into a high quality, more affordable alternative to the designer’s ultimate signature line. For women, it stands for elegance without ever being excessive, while the men’s collection leans towards the classic, with a casual touch that gives it a more contemporary look.
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For the latest tips and recommendations from the Four Seasons Boutique, visit the ‘Four Seasons & Amathus Boutiques’ on Facebook and Instagram. Photos, ideas, new arrivals and accessories are posted regularly so you can always keep in touch, wherever you are. You can use your in-room tablet to have a look from the comfort of your room, then visit the boutique for a closer look.
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NEW
levels of sunbathing
Repeat guests will quickly notice the new face of the Four Seasons gardens. The fully re-landscaped area has replaced the slopes of the past with flat terraces on four levels, where you can choose between sunbeds on the lush lawns or on the wooden decks. The new garden solution maximizes your sunbathing comfort and is aesthetically pleasing with its low stone separation walls and the visually appealing new umbrellas. The revamped gardens are not only more contemporary in look and polished in style; thanks to the syscall system on your umbrella, you enjoy the same impeccable service here as you would in the lobby lounge!
RISING SOMMELIER When Sotiris Neophytides joined the Four Seasons team in 2016 as a young hospitality and hotel management graduate, little did he know that he would soon fall under the spell of the wonderful world of wine, and even win the title of the ‘Best Young Sommelier of Cyprus’. It all started when Head Sommelier Savvas Papathomas took the just-employed Sotiris under his wing. Sotiris was instantly fascinated by his mentor’s expertise – and the Four Seasons management was quick to recognize his interest and support the budding talent. So when Sotiris decided to enter the Best Young Sommelier competition, the whole team of sommeliers helped prep him for both the theoretical and practical demands of the competition, from how to decant a wine, to food and wine pairing, and blind tasting of wine and other spirits.
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The annual competition, which is sponsored by Kyperounda Winery in cooperation with the Cyprus Sommeliers Association and is open to professionals up to age 30, was Sotiris’s entry point. He is now preparing for the Guild of Master Sommeliers’ Certified Sommelier exams in November. Congratulations to Sotiris on his new title; may it be the first of many more to come!
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JULY INNOCENTGUILT
JULY 2017 INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF ANCIENT GREEK DRAMA
2017
July 1 – September 30
SY M POS I UM 1363 -VOTI VE 1356 Respected artists Nikos Kouroussis and Lia Lapithi are continuing their collaboration of a visual dialogue that has spanned New York, London and Cyprus in a visual arts exhibition of modern pieces, including installations and images. The event, which is being held in the historic Kolossi Castle, is organized by the Department of Antiquities in cooperation with the International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) Cyprus, a non-governmental organization that promotes and safeguards the island’s ancient monuments. Daily: 08:15-19:45, Kolossi Castle, Limassol
July 15 I NNOCEN TGUI LT A total of 60 professional actors, dancers and musicians perform in this highly innovative show by Harris Hristodoulou. The 45 dancers will interpret 30 choreographies, accompanied by the musicians and actors, to tell the story of a girl born in
During this annual festival, a wide variety of different local and international theatre troupes honour
the USA who loses her Spanish father
the Greek Greats, such as Sophocles, Aeschylus, Aristophanes and others. Each performance
early in life. As an adult, she embarks
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July 9-30 2017 IN T E R NAT IONA L FE STIVA L OF A N C I E N T G R E E K D RA M A
has been hand-picked for the festival, following a rigorous process of shortlisting those that
on a journey to find his killer, finding
best celebrate and preserve the genre. Performances are held in Limassol, Paphos and Nicosia
love on the way.
throughout the month of July, making it one of the premier cultural offerings of the year. The full
20:30 Pattihio Limassol Municipal Theatre, Limassol Tel: 2537 7277 www.pattihio.com.cy
programme of plays and performance times are published on the event website. Curium Amphitheatre, Limassol / Pafos Ancient Odeon, Paphos www.greekdramafest.com / www.soldoutticketbox.com
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JULY OPEN-AIR SONEROS DE VERDAD (CUBAN BAND)
1-30
19
AUGUST SEEFEST – CINEMA AT THE SEA
JULY PIAF! THE SHOW
July 19
PIAF! THE SHOW Conceived and directed by the ‘theatrical maverick’ Gil Marsalla, ‘Piaf! The Show’ is a tribute to French singer Edith Piaf, ‘the Swallow of Montmartre’. Starring young French performer, Anne Carrere, the show narrates the singer’s rags-to-riches story through her songs and previously unreleased photographs and images. The show premiered in 2015 on the centennial of Piaf’s birthday, and performances were sold out in 33 countries. Carrere herself has been hailed as Piaf’s ‘legitimate musical heiress’. 21:00, Municipal Gardens Theatre, Limassol, Tel: 2534 3341, www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy
August 1-30 SEEFEST – CI N EMA AT T H E SEA Enjoy a series of films from European cinema and the broader area of the Mediterranean screened right on the sands at the annual ‘SeeFest – Cinema at the Sea’ event. The programme runs throughout August within the framework of events scheduled for ‘European Capital of Culture – Pafos 2017’. This year’s themed productions deal with issues such as multiculturalism, human relations and other related topics, inviting the public to share a cinematic experience under the starry sky. The event also incorporates parallel events, and the complete schedule can be viewed on the Pafos2017 website. Admission is free. 20:30
July 31 S ON E ROS D E V E R DA D ( C U BA N BA N D )
Pafos Beach, Paphos
The seven-piece Cuban band ‘Soneros de Verdad’ will be performing
www.pafos2017
authentic Cuban music as part of the 12th Cyprus Rialto World Music Festival 2017 – a member of the prestigious EFWMF – EFFE Label, which recognizes Europe’s best festivals. The line-up includes a former member of the legendary Buena Vista Social Club, and the band is regarded as a leader in the genre, having topped the charts in Cuba,
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Greece and Japan. Admission is free. 20:30 Heroes' Square, Limassol www.rialto.com.cy
Castle Residences
Like no
other
Just launched, Castle Residences are the only luxury apartments on the sea in the Mediterranean. Surrounded by water, steps away from the beach, this final residential phase of the Marina development enjoys uninterrupted views of the sea and the coastal city of Limassol. For more information or to book a private appointment, contact +357 25 020 020 limassolmarina.com
Living on the sea
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AUGUST AMORE
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER LIMASSOL WINE FESTIVAL
1-3
SEPTEMBER 19th PAFOS APHRODITE FESTIVAL
4-6
AUGUST BEACH WATER POLO – LIMASSOL EDITION
August 3 & 4
AMORE ‘Amore’ is the new production by Svetlana Zakharova, multi-award winning prima ballerina of the Bolshoi Theatre. Zakharova has chosen to perform three ballets by three world-renowned choreographers: Yuri Possokhov, Patrick De Bana and Marguerite Donlon, and will be accompanied by principal dancers of the Russian Ballet. In her performance, “Zakharova experiments with both classic and contemporary styles as she strives for perfection in constant search of new ways of artistic expression in dance”. 20:30, Municipal Gardens Theatre, Limassol, Tel: 2534 3341, www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy
August 30 – September 9 L IM ASS OL WIN E FE STIVA L Free-flowing wine and much merriment can be
August 4-6 B EAC H WAT ER PO LO – LI MASSO L EDI T I O N
an equally rich programme of entertainment. The island’s largest celebration of its ancient winemaking history attracts thousands of visitors who come
The Beach Water Polo International Tournament
to sample vintages from local large, independent
2017 (organized by Beach Water Polo, Greece) plays
and boutique wine producers and vineyards – all
a Limassol edition at Limassol Marina, having already
included in the admission fee. The programme of
played a Paphos edition at the end of June.
entertainment is suitable for the whole family and
Hyped as ‘the greatest beach water polo event globally’, the event sees both Cypriot and international players
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enjoyed at the Limassol Wine Festival, along with
includes traditional music and dance, and children’s activities. The Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO)
competing. Tickets are available for spectators, who can
operates free shuttle buses to and from the event. All
also enjoy a day out at the charming marina.
the details and the full programme are published on
15:00-23:00 Limassol Marina www.beachwaterpolo.gr
the municipality’s dedicated Wine Festival website. 20:00 Municipal Gardens www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy/wine
Villas on Step out of your villa and onto your yacht. Relax at the beach or the spa. Dine and shop in the heart of the most vibrant city in Cyprus. This is what we mean by living on the sea. For information on berths, apartments and villas at Limassol Marina, contact +357 25 020 020 limassolmarina.com
Living on the sea
D I A R Y l i m a s s o l eve n t s
10, 17 & 24 SEPTEMBER GRAPE FEAST
10
23-24
SEPTEMBER 2017 CYPRUS INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL
SEPTEMBER PASTRY AND BAKED GOODS FESTIVAL
September
MADE IN CYPRUS EXHIBITION Discover traditional Cyprus! The fourth exhibition of products and services that are ‘made in Cyprus’ aims to exceed last year’s success, during which over 6000 visitors discovered local and innovative products, various services, and a number of artistic creations and handicrafts, all produced or deeply-rooted in Cyprus. From wine to carob and olive products, as well as craftsmen showcasing old pastimes, the exhibition offers interesting insights into Cypriot culture. This wonderful family event is organized by the World Trade Center and admission is free. Trakasol Cultural Centre, Limassol Marina Tel: 2537 2855 www.limassolmarina.com
September & October (all month) KY PRI A I N T ER NAT I O NA L F EST I VA L The ‘Kypria International Festival’ is a cultural celebration of Cypriot traditions
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September 1, 2 & 3 19 T H PA FOS A P H ROD IT E FE ST IVA L This year’s eagerly anticipated, world-class opera that was chosen for the
and customs expressed in high-calibre
prestigious Pafos Aphrodite Festival is ‘Die Entf�hrung aus dem Serail’
performances by a variety of local and
(The abduction from the Seraglio) by W.A. Mozart, performed outdoors
international performers. The festival
around the majestic Paphos medieval castle with views of the sea. The opera
spans two months and several venues
is performed by the Italian organizations ‘Parma Opera Organization C.E.F.A.C’
across the island. In Limassol, events are
and the ‘Theatre of Pisa’ with the participation of the Cyprus Symphony
held at the Rialto Theatre. The festival’s
Orchestra, within the framework of ‘European Capital of Culture - Pafos 2017’.
schedule of events is published on the
Mozart’s masterpiece falls under the genre of ‘singspiel’, a comic opera in the
official event website and on the theatre’s
German language combining music with spoken dialogue. To accommodate
website nearer the time.
an international audience, there will be Greek and English subtitles.
www.kypria.org.cy
20:00, Paphos Medieval Castle, Paphos
www.rialto.com.cy
www.pafc.com.cy
September 10 PASTRY AND BA KED GO O DS FESTI VAL Galata village in the Troodos mountains holds an annual pastry and baked items festival to showcase its famed tradition of baking, which once constituted the main source of income for many villagers employed at the various mills that used to exist in the area. During the festival, visitors can watch the making and baking of various traditional pastries, alongside a programme of folkloric entertainment. The village museums and other attractions, including the Folk Art Museum and Byzantine churches, will remain open for visitors. Galata Village Square, Troodos, www.mytroodos.com
September 10, 17 & 24 GRA PE F EAST Various winemaking Troodos mountain villages in the Limassol district also produce traditional products from the abundant grapes that grow in this area. This annual harvest is celebrated with a festival that presents all the local grape products and their by-products, including traditional sweets. Each village holds its own celebration in turn, with Vasa, Lofou and Arsos organizing their events on September 10, 17 and 24 respectively, while Koilani village celebrates on October 1. Visitors can enjoy sampling various delights and wine accompanied by a programme of folk entertainment. For transportation and enquiries contact :CTO Information Office, Germasogeia: 2532 3211 www.mytroodos.com
September 23-24 2017 CY PRUS I N TE R NAT I O NA L FO O D FE ST IVA L The 2017 Cyprus International Food Festival showcases the culinary diversity of Cyprus by offering visitors the opportunity to sample various street foods at the crossroad of cultures around the Mediterranean: the Middle East, Europe and even foods with links to the Far East. Drinks from both local and international wineries and breweries will also be on offer. Children can participate in cooking classes by professionals, and there will be cocktail-making demonstrations, music and a photographic exhibition. The event is held in collaboration with the Limassol Tourism Company, and admission is free. 16:00, Molos Promenade, Limassol www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy
D I A R Y l i m a s s o l eve n t s
14-21
OCTOBER INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL OF CYPRUS
7-8
OCTOBER KYPEROUNDA APPLE FESTIVAL
4-13
OCTOBER WHOSE KARAGIOZIS IS THIS? TRADITIONAL SHADOW THEATRE SHOW
8
20 -22 OCTOBER CHILDREN’S CULTURAL FESTIVAL
OCTOBER DAY OF THE OLIVE
October 4-13
WHOSE KARAGIOZIS IS THIS? - TRADITIONAL SHADOW THEATRE SHOW The tradition of shadow theatre – and especially shows involving the humorous character ‘Karagiozis’ – was once a popular form of entertainment in Cyprus, Greece and Turkey, and is now recognized by UNESCO as intangible world heritage. Under the umbrella of ‘European Capital of Culture - Pafos2017’, this event at a restored old inn features Karagiozis and Hatziavatis, along with a host of classic characters linked to traditional shadow theatre. The programme includes presentations, exhibitions and shadow theatre performances – both contemporary and traditional. Admission is free. 16:00-19:00, Ibrahim’s Khan, Paphos
October 7 & 8 KYPEROUNDA APPLE FESTIVAL Kyperounda village in the Troodos mountains is famous for its apples. The fruit is proudly celebrated with a two-day festival, where visitors can enjoy everything apple! Visit the village to
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October – December
experience and enjoy the open-air, fresh apple
GERMASOGEIA TOURS
market, traditional products, an apple exhibition,
The Limassol sub-district, Germasogeia Municipality, offers two complimentary walking/
apple-pie baking competitions, seminars on
coach tours, each with its own unique theme and licensed tour guide, and each taking
the benefits of apples and a full entertainment
around three hours to complete. The first excursion covers the natural environment of
show. Sample or buy your favourite apple-based
Germasogeia, with the option to hike along the Cyprus Forestry Department’s nature
recipes, including fresh apple juice, apple pies,
trail in the area. The second walk focuses on Germasogeia’s architecture, including the
apple cider vinegar, and lots more. A wonderful
well-known local dam. Both excursions start and finish at the CTO office in Dasoudi.
opportunity to also tour the other attractions of
Comfortable shoes and ample water supplies are recommended for both.
of the village, which include the local museums and historic churches. Kyperounda Village, Troodos www.mytroodos.com
10:00-13:00 CTO Office, Dasoudi, Tel: 2532 3211 www.yermasoyia.org
October 8 DAY OF THE OLIVE The unique Oleastro Olive Park in Anogyra village is home to everything olive! The annual festival celebrates the Cyprus olive tree and all its gifts through a programme that includes sampling of olive and olive oil recipes, information on the history of olive cultivation on the island, and a folkloric entertainment programme. This event complements the park’s facilities – a museum, olive groves, bio mill, and gift shop – which will all remain open during the festival to welcome visitors. Anogyra Village, Limassol District Tel: 9956 5768 / 9952 5093 www.oleastro.com.cy
October 14-21 I N T ER NAT I O NA L S H ORT FIL M F EST I VA L O F CYPR US The island’s official short film festival screens a selection of local and international short films (in English or with English subtitles), including documentaries, experimental, fiction, student and animation. An international panel of judges awards the best productions in two categories, ‘Local’ and ‘International’. The festival also includes other events, such as dialogues with directors, and interesting workshops. The full programme and screening schedule is available on the festival website. http://www.isffc.com.cy
October 20-22 CHILDREN’S CULTURAL FESTIVAL The annual ‘Children’s Cultural Festival’ is a weekend of fun dedicated to children and organized in aid of vulnerable children within the community. Various activities and entertainment are on offer, from story time, musical performances and games, to creative play, various crafts and cultural activities that children can participate in. Alongside the hands-on fun, there are also stalls with items geared towards children, including books and school supplies. Trakasol Cultural Centre, Limassol Marina, Tel: 2537 2855, www.limassolmarina.com
D I A R Y l i m a s s o l eve n t s
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5&12
NOVEMBER CYPRUS APHRODITE HALF MARATHON
NOVEMBER ZIVANIA FESTIVAL
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23 -26 NOVEMBER 13th CYPRUS INTERNATIONAL 4-DAY CHALLENGE
OCTOBER LIMASSOL SPRINT TRIATHLON
October 22
LIMASSOL SPRINT TRIATHLON The Limassol Sprint Triathlon features two events: the Sprint Triathlon & Team Sprint Triathlon, comprising a 750m swim - 20km bike - 5km run, and a Super Sprint Triathlon, comprising a 300m swim - 10km bike - 2.5km run. Participants will follow a course along Limassol’s lovely, long seafront, with spectators free to watch the athletes. The event is being held within the framework of ‘Lemesia 2017’ events, a programme of sporting events in the town, which is taking place from May to November 2017. 09:00, Limassol seafront, www.nireas.org
November 5 & 12 ZIVANIA FESTIVAL Alona and Pelendri – two villages in the Troodos mountains – have a long history of producing the island’s potent alcoholic beverage, ‘Zivania’. Every year the villages celebrate this local drink by demonstrating its distillation process, accompanied by a range of traditional produce and an entertainment programme. A perfect opportunity to visit other sights in the two charming villages, including churches and monuments. Alona celebrates first, on November 5, followed by Pelendri the weekend after (November 12). Alona / Pelendri, Troodos www.mytroodos.com
November 23-26 13 TH CYPRUS INTERNATIONAL 4-DAY CHALLENGE Taking place in the Paphos area and the stunning Akamas Nature Reserve, the Cyprus International 4-Day Challenge is a taxing running event (slightly longer than a marathon) that incorporates mountain running, trail running and cross country running. The different races take place across four days. The times achieved during each race are then added up for each runner to determine a
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winner at the end of the 4-day challenge. Akamas, Paphos Tel: 2688 0878 www.cypruschallenge.com
November 26 CYPRUS APHRODITE HALF MARATHON Named after the ancient Greek goddess Aphrodite, the Cyprus Aphrodite Half
Bringing you the best in pub hospitality, food quality and atmosphere since 1996!
Marathon takes in the beautiful coastline of Aphrodite’s legendary birthplace, attracting over 1000 local and international runners. The event features a half marathon and a 5k Fun Run which spectators enjoy watching. Both professional and amateur adult runners (age 16 and up) can take part in the half marathon, while there is no age restriction for the Fun Run. The event ends with an award ceremony and gala dinner. All event timings and details – including how to register to take part – can be found on the event website. Paphos coastline www.runclub.com.cy
December C HRI STMAS I N LI MASSO L Limassol becomes especially festive during the Christmas and New Year period, right up until Epiphany. The seasonal programme includes activities and events for the whole family, from choirs singing carols and visits from Santa, to Christmasthemed arts, crafts and food. The programme varies from year to year and is announced in detail at the start of December. Regular features include a festive Christmas market, train rides around the town centre, concerts and other seasonal performances. www.limassoltourism.com
DISCOVER THE AGED MEAT EXPERIENCE
www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy
LIVE BRODCAST OF SPORTING EVENTS open daily: 10am-2am IMPORTANT NOTICE: Although all events have been confirmed and were correct at the time of going to press, we recommend contacting the organizers closer to the date of each event, in case of short notice changes or cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances.
194 Amathoundos Ave, 4533 Limassol, Tel: 25 635155
Voted by public as most Original Pub 2016 for the third time.
A C C O M M O D A T I O N e leva te d lu xu ry
Accommodation
RECREATED At the Four Seasons, luxury and comfort do not come in a
one-size-fits-all formula. Every room type is carefully adapted to guest requirements, and then redefines the expectation of deluxe accommodation with beautiful touches and high-end extras.
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A C C O M M O D A T I O N e leva t e d luxury
THE BEACH LIFE The personal paradise of the coveted ground floor Beach Studios has been expanded and enhanced this season with stunning redesigns to the outdoor area of the ultimate vacation rooms. Guests can step out of their studio’s elegant interior‌ directly onto their own, private garden verandas, complete with the luxury of personal hot tub, chic wooden decking and sumptuous sun loungers.
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OPULENT LIVING The new Four Seasons Residences offer the best of all worlds; opulent living on the coast, combined with all the premium services and facilities of the hotel, which residents have full access to.
PRIVACY & SPACE Space and privacy are two elements that have been masterfully adopted in the design of the six new 2-Bedroom Family Suites, which can accommodate up to six persons across 90m2. Each suite features two bedrooms, a living room, and two ultra-luxury bathrooms. Wrapping itself around all three rooms, the suite’s veranda has comfortable seating and provides majestic views over the adult’s pool and the Mediterranean beyond. The flexibility of these rooms is priceless for both larger families and those travelling with help.
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POWERUP TO ELECTRIC… AND PLUG INTO A NEW WAY OF LIVING Limassol is plugging into a new way of doing things with brand new EV charging stations, rental electric cars and bikes and a future with hybrid hop-on, hop-off buses. So let’s get on-board together. And change the way we travel, commute and think. We promise… it’s going to be electric!
DESTINATIONS
LIMASSOL TOURISM BOARD www.facebook.com/limassoltourism | www.limassoltourism.com
F O C U S fa m ily h olid a ys
holiday
HAPPINESS
At the Four Seasons, little guests are not lesser guests. Here, a world of children’s fun and adventure awaits, all delightfully encased in a five-star experience that will delight the young ones – and their parents. text
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F O C U S fa mily h o lid a ys
At the Four Seasons, we believe that a tailor-made, luxury holiday is not a privilege reserved exclusively for adults. In fact, we approach the term ‘family holiday’ literally, taking every member of the family into account, starting with the very youngest! You will soon find that children are not only warmly welcomed, but are also catered for in the most joyful, memorable… and educational ways, and in bright and innovative facilities that trigger endless hours of smiles and laughter. And if this is not your first visit to the Four Seasons, the look of happy surprise from your progeny will alert you to the fact that several enhancements this season ensure that children now have even more ways to enjoy every day.
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HAPPY HOLIDAYS ALL ROUND
INDOORS AND OUTDOORS, kids are invited to participate in a full programme of organized fun and educational activities, as well as free play.
“Children love the independence and freedom to decide how they would like to spend their day,” says ‘Moments to Enjoy’ Supervisor, Heike Ioannou, who is responsible for the overall programme for non-adult guests, which covers the Kindergarten (age 3-8), the Just Kids Club (7-12), and the newlyupgraded teens offering. But what does this include? Simply put, the focus is on fun and learningthrough-play that allows children to choose whether they would like to participate in a stimulating group activity, a quiet artistic task, or an energetic bout of climbing and tumbling... or splashing! While the hotel does offer organized babysitting, the children’s activities are not designed to simply be a ‘child-minding’ service, but to offer so much more than just a convenience for parents. Naturally, parents do get to savour that precious ‘me’ time, confident that their offspring are safe, secure and happy; but more than that, the children themselves relish their own ‘me time’, in an environment that leaves them enriched by the experience.
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The vivid interior of the Kindergarten instantly revs children up for play! Here, parents can leave them in the trusted hands of fully-qualified staff who know exactly how to put children at ease and gear them up for the fun that lies ahead. The team members speak English, Greek, Russian and German, and can communicate with children in several other languages on a more basic level – all of which is often not required, as children have a language of
} their own. Heike says: “Children communicate through play, and are very well able to express their needs without saying a single word. Even if parents are worried that their child may not be able to interact with others due to language barriers, they soon discover that children naturally love to socialize, and that smiles and a helping hand are a universal language.” Although there is a strong emphasis on learning through play, the Kindergarten is not a school, and therefore there is no rigidity in its structure; children may choose free play with the various popular toys, or can participate in the programme of the day. A typical day will include two different, scheduled craft times, movie time, group games and a special feature of the day, such as biscuit making or picnic time. Heike also likes to encourage parents to make a date with the children every evening at 8.30pm for a family dance, before the children’s evening programme – with clown, disco, cinema or magician – begins. “The children are always more than willing to leave their parents to join in the activities, but they also enjoy sharing them with their parents. The family dance is a great opportunity to bond as a family,” she explains.
SEASONS OF DISCOVERY
with safety padding is where kids can jump, climb and swing in an air-conditioned and supervised environment.
Part of the learning ethos is an emphasis on culture. Baking traditional Cypriot cheese pies introduces the children to the island’s local ingredients and exposes them to a different cuisine. This Cyprus theme also extends to art projects and walks on the beach to collect shells that are unique to the Mediterranean isle.
NEW DELIGHTS In addition to the established facilities, new for summer 2017 is the exciting indoor soft play area. This colourful structure offers endless hours of fun through climbing, jumping and swinging within its padded interior, while the ball pit always elicits squeals of delight when children discover that they can pull a lever to tip the balls onto their heads – all in the comfort of an air-conditioned area! The wonderful new facility is located below the Just Kids Club pier, and complemented by an outdoor play structure, providing children with the option to take their adventures outside. The soft play area is the result of guest feedback from kids as well as parents, as Heike explains: “Naturally, the swimming pool and water slide are always favourites; but there are times when children want to get out of the sun and play somewhere cooler to expend their energy and express their imagination and creativity.” The soft play area is fully supervised at all times, but also offers a level of flexibility, as signing in and out is not required. In fact, many children enjoy this opportunity to take themselves from area to area depending on their mood and desire. And with the option to also pop up to the Just Kids Club pier, it is easy to combine activities to create a day that they will feel is truly their own. Which only leaves one question every morning… “How many different things can I fit in today?”
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The Just Kids Club is based in a separate section of the hotel, in the shade of the wooden activity pier. Here, older children can practise new skills, including the all-time favourite activity… cooking. “Children love the cooking,” says Heike. “For some, it is the first time they experiment as little chefs, and they step into this role with heart and soul.” It goes without saying that a session of making desserts with gooey chocolate praline goes down a treat – especially when they know that they will enjoy the fruits of their labour. Savoury dishes are also a big hit, particularly when it comes to pizza-making time!
THE NEW INDOOR SOFT PLAY AREA
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out and about
TEENS
In the age of entertainment at our fingertips and conversations taking place online, teenagers can be difficult to please – especially during a family holiday. The Four Seasons’ new teens activities led by Edgar Dambreht are just the ticket to get active and go exploring.
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A family holiday is an opportunity to unwind, take in new cultures and meet new people; but for offspring that were born in the millennium, a smartphone is sometimes the only company they want. If you are among such parents who are searching for the magic wand that will manage to separate their teens from screens of any size, the Four Seasons has just brought your quest to a successful end: The ‘Moments to Enjoy’ programme, which has always delighted younger children at the kids club and adults who enjoyed excursions and activities around the hotel, has now introduced a brand new programme designed to extract teenagers aged 13-17 from
their cocoon and to offer them real-life, offline, face-to-face, click-free activity with their peers.
MOMENTS TO ENJOY Heike Ioannou, the ‘Moments to Enjoy’ Manager, has been working at the Four Seasons for 24 years. She explains why 2017 was the right time to introduce a new string to the ‘Moments to Enjoy’ bow: “We’re always trying to do something new to entertain our guests, and recently we have welcomed many teenagers who first visited the hotel when they were young children, and return year after year with their
L E I S U R E te e n a ctivitie s
parents. In all my years here, I have watched the hotel truly grow into a family destination. Children who met other children from across the world in previous years now meet up again – as teenagers. We saw this as a great opportunity to add a new dimension to our activities programme; and we had to introduce something different, because teenagers don’t get involved as much with their surroundings anymore. They need that extra push, a very specific approach that will appeal to their age group and interests.”
PERFECTING THE PROGRAMME
} HAVING WORKED WITH YOUTH CLUBS ACROSS EUROPE, Programme Supervisor Edgar Dambreht makes sure that teens have their say, which allows him to tailor the day’s activities to their preferences.
With activities from morning until night, Monday to Saturday, the full-day timetable allowed Heike to include some favourites among teenagers and also some outings unique to Cyprus. “Teenagers love sports, so we have plenty of that in the programme, with football matches, beach olympics, dodgeball, basketball, table tennis and water polo,” she says. The activities are not limited to the Four Seasons premises; the teens are taken on a number of complimentary trips. “We also want our guests to get to know the area of Limassol, so we take them on a city tour to introduce them to our surroundings and the Cyprus culture – otherwise teenagers don’t experience the real history of their holiday destination.” In addition, there are outings to Ten-Pin bowling and to The Escape Room in Limassol, which involves teams cracking clues to escape a locked room before time runs out – a top favourite among the teenagers.
Leading the new teens programme is Supervisor Edgar Dambreht, who has many years of experience working with youth clubs across Europe. One of the ‘gang’, he instantly relates to the youngsters with his get-up-and-go nature
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L E I S U R E t e e n a c t ivit ie s
} HOTEL GUESTS
which encourages teenagers across the hotel to get involved in the activities and build new relationships. “I try to be a friend to them and make sure that everyone has a say, so I know what they like to do. I also walk around the hotel and invite people to take part, so no one is left out,” says Edgar. One of the popular outings is the city tour which takes place every Tuesday morning. “We have so much fun enjoying the fountains and looking at the yachts at the marina. I also show them the church and the architecture, to teach them a bit about the history of the city. I’ll take them to shops where they can buy souvenirs to take back home with them. We’ll then go to a local café for some ice cream. The teens love to take photos during the tour to share on social media.” Bowling – with complimentary entry and snacks – is organized every Thursday morning and is also a classic favourite. “When we go bowling, you can actually see the team spirit develop, with music playing in the background and the teens cheering each other on.”
quickly become friends when they participate in
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the different teen activities such as bowling and city
MAKING MEMORIES
tours, with breaks for ice-cream and refreshments.
Edgar is a hit with the guests, as the regular flow of positive feedback on the nature and variety of activities proves. “The extended programme is one of the features that make the Four Seasons unique. And, of course, there is the staff; guests who come year after year are always delighted to see familiar faces.” The new programme has certainly been well received by teenagers staying at the hotel. “Everyone is so friendly,” says 17-year-old Justin, “and there are so many nice places to visit in Limassol that I didn’t even know about before going on the city tour with Edgar. I really enjoyed the bowling too, it’s great to do something different that I wouldn’t do at home.” Kyriacos and Evros, both aged 16,
became friends at the Four Seasons. “There are many things to do in Cyprus, and it’s great that the teens programme gives you a chance to try new things. We’re both keen footballers, and it’s nice to play against likeminded people. Also, the weather during the city tour was amazing, and the food at the marina was good.” Anabelle, who turned 18 during her stay, loved the Mediterranean style she experienced while exploring the city, and enjoyed meeting and interacting with new people, “and when we went bowling, they brought out a birthday cake to celebrate,” she recalls. The family activities for all ages fall under the ‘Moments to Enjoy’ complimentary programme, which all guests are welcome to participate in. “Parents also appreciate the new programme, because when their children participate in any of the sports activities, the mums and dads often join in too, and that means spending more time together as a family,” says Edgar. “This summer we had a families table tennis competition with two father-and-son teams from different countries competing – they all had such a great time. They then became ‘friends’ on Facebook and they’re still in contact today.” Thanks to the Four Seasons, this and many other friendships were forged during a holiday in Cyprus, and are reinforced year after year.
To participate in the teens activities, the meeting point is at the table tennis table, Monday to Saturday at 10am. Prior reservations are required for the Escape Room, City Tour and Bowling and can be made with Edgar or in the Kindergarten. The full programme can be viewed on the in-room tablet or on the screen at the entrance of Café Tropical.
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ALIX NORMAN
LO U C A ST U D I O S
QI
for two
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F O U R S E A S O N S S h ise id o S p a
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Many say the journey is more important than the destination. But if you visit the Four Seasons Shiseido Spa, the debate is academic; both the destination – the spa itself – and the journey that awaits you work in tandem to offer you an experience of serenity, harmony and indulgence. Visit the spa with your partner, and the shared experience doubles in value, as the two of you travel side by side in the Couples Suite.
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F O U R S E A S O N S S h is e id o Spa
Often it is said that it is not only the journey, but who you share it with that makes the real difference. And if you’re here at the Four Seasons à deux, then you know the truth of that statement: Discovering the beauty of Cyprus, tasting the cuisine and hunting out the perfect white sand beaches – these are discoveries which are all better together. But there’s another journey in store for you and your partner; one that will bring both of you that step closer to the sublime, without even leaving the hotel. That journey starts at the hotel’s in-house spa. One of only a limited number worldwide, the Shiseido Spa is the perfect complement to the Four Seasons. Based on the principle of ‘omotenashi’ – a concept which translates as ‘devotion to clients’ – Shiseido boasts a philosophy which is perfectly aligned with the Four Seasons. “Both the Shiseido Spa and our Hotel are almost identical in terms of ethos,” says Nick Aristou, Executive Director of the Four Seasons Cyprus. “It’s the outstanding quality, impeccable service, and the approach of our highly-trained staff which ensure both are absolutely exceptional.” So whenever you’re ready, visit the spa to embark on your very own journey of pure relaxation.
EAST MEETS WEST
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Based on the ancient Japanese understanding of ‘qi’, the vital energy that runs throughout the body, the Shiseido Spas were founded in 1986 on the fusion of eastern holistic concepts and western beauty massage. Concentrating on the meridian flow by stimulating tsubo pressure points to restore energy and induce a deep, rhythmical state of relaxation, the Spa’s signature treatments are a journey of utter tranquillity, explains Anna Maria, the Spa’s Head Shiseido Therapist. Together with Dora, the two are set to take my partner and me on a journey hand-crafted just for us: a Shiseido Qi Relaxing Massage for both of us, and then a Hydro-Perfecting Facial
for me and a Japanese Scalp & Shoulder Massage for him. It’s an ingenious combination of treatments which will, we’re promised, gently ease every one of our mental and physical stresses... Bathed in the soft glow of the Spa’s designated Couples’ Room, we prepare for our aromatherapy breathing. This five-minute process, which calms the mind and oxygenates the body, is a soothing prelude which, for both of us, induces an almost trance-like state of tranquillity. And then, lightly enveloped in vast, velvety towels, the massage begins.
QI TO PARADISE Our first treatment utilizes a specially formulated Qi massage and firming body cream, a blend of frankincense, musk, cloves, incense, and sandalwood known as ‘kuroho’, sacred to centuries of Japanese aristocracy. With sweeping, soothing strokes the therapists ease the accumulated knots and tensions in our shoulders and upper back. As they work down the legs, our stresses melt away and a positive energy permeates our bodies in what Anna Maria describes as “a combination of western and Oriental massage which balances and realigns the energy flow, engendering complete wellbeing.” Quietly solicitous, our two therapists work as one, their fluid movements echoing each other as they work down deeply into the soles of our feet. Being a self-professed gentleman of the old school, my partner is pleasantly surprised by the comfort factor: “I’ve always felt slightly uncomfortable with the personal tactility of massage,” he explains, “but our therapists were so professional and welcoming, I was instantly at ease.” We both agree that this is an experience that is made to be shared. As our therapists continue their uninterrupted hand dance, now using ‘oshibori’ (hot towels which are the equivalent of a bath for the soul!) and applying pressure to the ‘tsubo’ points (junctures in the body’s energy meridians), our aches
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THE COUPLES SUITE was designed to offer you a side-by-side spa journey, with treatments for him and her based on personal needs and preferences.
and pains have disappeared, and we’re ready for the next step in our journey.
THE FINAL TOUCH Guided by the Spa Manager, Anna Donovan, my partner has chosen the Japanese Neck and Scalp Massage – which induces a state of such tranquillity, he falls into a deep sleep in minutes! – while I’ve decided on the Hydro-Perfecting Facial. “We take an individualized approach which allows our clients to select their preferred treatments and product lines,” Anna explains. “In addition to the Shiseido range which caters to all skin types and requirements, we also have exclusivity on the Aromatherapy Associates line – a natural, pure aromatherapy brand which allows clients a choice. In terms of treatment, we offer all the facilities one would expect, such as manicures and waxing, as well as our specialized Shiseido treatments and an individualized selection of signature treatments unique to our spa: an Aromatic Head and Foot Massage, Body Bliss Flotation, and the Indian Ceremony of Indulgence.” In the space of two hours, I’ve achieved a state of bliss: my body is, for the first time in months, relaxed and revitalized; my skin radiant and supple. Twenty years of overwork and anxiety have disappeared in an instant, both of us ending our treatments on cloud nine. It’s as if the professionals at Shiseido Spa have tuned into the promised land, revealing the true essence of individualized wellbeing... A rich journey of relaxation, for the mind and the body, for one but also for two.
F O U R S E A S O N S t e a mw o r k
YOUR at
SERVICE As the number of local and international awards that the Four Seasons has received continues to grow, it becomes ever more evident how much the long-standing management team and their staff contribute to the hotel’s achievements. After all, such awards are all based on guest feedback, which in turn is the result of the attention our guests receive. Meet some key members of the team and talk to them. Remember, they’re always there to serve you.
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Foundations of Hospitality
COSTAS
ANDREAS
YIANNIS
ANGELOS
YIANNOS
NICOLAOU
LOIZOU
IOANNOU
ILLAMBAS
GREGORIOU
Financial Controller
HR & Quality Director
Assistant Hotel Manager
Group Chief Engineer
Group Food & Beverage Manager
CHARIS HADJINEOPHYTOU
KRYSTYNA MICHAELIDOU
COSTAS NICOLAOU
Duty Manager
Quality & Public Relations
Operations Manager
Manager
ANDREAS
DEMETRIS
Food & Beverage
ALKIVIADES
NICOLAOU
Adm. & Sales Manager
Reception Manager
Assistant Food & Beverage Service Manager
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LEONIDAS LEONIDOU
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F O U R S E A S O N S t e a mw o r k
Smooth Operation
MARIOS
LAMBROS
NEARCHOS
EVA
STELIOS
GEORGIOU
LAMBROU
EVANGELOU
KOFTEROU
PAPAGEORGIOU
Purchasing Manager
Assistant Chief Engineer
Back of House Manager
Executive Housekeeper
Reservations Supervisor
Culinary Arts
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GUAN RUIJONG
PANICOS
PANAYIOTIS
DEMETRIS
Seasons Oriental
HADJITOFIS
CHARALAMBOUS
HADJIYIANNIS
Head Chef
Executive Chef
Executive Sous Chef
Executive Pastry Chef
YO U R 1 ST C L AS S P RO P E RT Y A DV I SO R
LAPERLA.COM
LA PERLA - 205B MAKARIOS AVENUE LIMASSOL CYPRUS TEL 25 82 85 45
F O U R S E A S O N S t e a mw o r k
Gastronomy
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LENIA DEMOSTHENOUS
SIFIS NICOLAOU
DAVID WALKER
Assistant Maitre d’Hotel
Restaurants Manager
Assistant Maitre d’Hotel
MARIOS DEMOSTHENOUS
GEORGE MICHAEL
Bars Manager
Bars Manager
KYRIACOS THEODOTOU
STALO ARABANTZI
SAVVAS PAPATHOMAS
Restaurant Supervisor
Restaurant Supervisor
Banqueting Supervisor
Vivaldi by Mavrommatis
Seasons Oriental
Head Sommelier
F O U R S E A S O N S t e a mw o r k
Developing the Business
MARINOS
ANTONIO
LARYSA
CHRISTINA
KLERI
SHAXIATES
CASSERA
BORGARDT
SOLOMOU
MICHAEL
Sales & Marketing
Group Corporate
Sales Executive
Conference & Incentive
Digital Marketing
Manager
Sales Manager
Coordinator
Manager
Fashion and Leisure
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ANNA
MARY
Kindergarten & Moments
DONOVAN
CHRYSOSTOMOU
to Enjoy Supervisor
Shiseido Spa Manager
Fashion Director
ALECOS ALEXANDROU
HEIKE IOANNOU
Le Club Actif Sports Manager
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ICONIC ADDRESS - LIMASSOL
ONELIMASSOL.COM T. + 3 5 7 2 5 5 9 0 8 8 0 , i n f o @ o n e l i m a s s o l . c o m
Available at
Four Seasons Boutiques
Tel: +357 25858145 boutique@fourseasons.com.cy OW N E D A N D O P E R AT E D B Y M U S K I TA H O T E L S LT D
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HANGING GARDENS, mocha seating and azure accents present a new level of perfection at Colors CafĂŠ.
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S P E C I A L F E A T U R E all-n e w colors ca f ĂŠ
text MICHAELA MOBLEY
the new art of
COLORS
The new Colors CafĂŠ is a collaboration of visionaries, artists and artisans that have co-created an experiential space offering old masters and new tastes. A gallery of artistic culinary genius that is now open and offers everyone pure pleasure. Four Seasons Portrait
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S P E C I A L F E A T U R E all-new colors cafĂŠ
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CAKE CREATIONS & signature Honduras single origin coffee are the essence of a wonderful morning or afternoon tea.
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Colors Café has always been the most popular venue in Limassol; so naturally, many friends and fans were at a loss when Colors closed to give way to the magnificent Four Seasons Residences – which now houses the latest ‘edition’ of Colors. Months in the making, was it worth the wait? Nick Aristou, Executive Director of the Four Seasons, confirms his confidence in the finished result: “Colors has evolved since the first conception, and now we have taken a quantum leap in terms of décor, ambience and menu to match the modern lifestyle of our visitors. Today’s consumers value luxury that is embedded in a casual style, and quality that achieves perfection. Our vision was for the new Colors to appeal to all ages from 7 to 70, to attract our regulars and excite a new audience. That vision has been converted into reality, and what we see today is beyond all expectations.” Working with a colour palette that reflects a new world of tastes, renowned interior designers balanced azure accents of Thai silk wallpaper and soft sofas with a floor of mocha marble and latte coloured furniture. Trailing plants hang down from heights of cathedral proportions, while levels of textured panels are layered like stepping stones across the ceiling, to produce what Nick calls the ‘Hanging Gardens of Colors’. Take a closer look at both the venue and the menu, and you might well consider Colors the eighth wonder of the culinary world...
PERSPECTIVES OF A CREATIVE CHEF
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Colors has always been famed for its cakes, and the new menu reinforces that reputation. Head Pastry Chef Demetris Hadjiyiannis decided to keep the most popular old favourites, but also built a new gallery of signature cakes. He says: “We are inspired by traditional recipes and flavours that everyone loves; but then we capture them in modern shapes and twists in taste. People are familiar with the original tiramisu soaked in amaretto with mascarpone; but by adding layers of coffee crème brûlée and crunchy souffletine, we present a unique celebration of Italy.” The new fruit tart is equally innovative, with vanilla crunchy crust filled with fresh cream, scented with Kirsch, fresh raspberries and topped with edible gold leaf; choose the French éclair and it will surprise you with vanilla crème brûlée, bitter chocolate and caramelized walnuts.
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S P E C I A L F E A T U R E all-new colors café
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THE COLORS CAFÉ TEAM are delighted to offer returning guests and new visitors an exciting collection of innovative cocktails, fine wines and new “tonic bar” creations.
Demetris is also eager to present his beloved gelatos and ice cream creations, but he admits that some flavours are ‘more beloved than others’: “Being a chocoholic, I cannot resist the Grand Cru Chocolate… but others are just as tempting, such as the flavours that are inspired by classic desserts – apple pie and biscotti profiterole. With the new menu we want our guests who are familiar with our creations to love them even more; this is how we approached each new recipe. My team of thirty chefs are eager to see our guests’ response. We want every new creation to trigger the same enthusiasm that we put into its preparation.”
TAKING A NEW FORM
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The artisan method employed in the new kitchens extends to the new line of croissants, salads, sandwiches and breads. The cream cheese and blackcurrant croissant has the crunchiness of the light pastry and the deep aromas of forest fruit and butter, while the Kouglof brioche is made in the classic savarin mould, with a cream centre suffused with raisins, hazelnuts, Chantilly and vanilla bean. Demetris wanted to design a bridge between breakfast and afternoon tea: “The Kouglof is the ideal pastry to centre the collection,” he says. Just as Demetris’s skills defined the portfolio of sweets, so the inclinations of Seafood Bar Chef Stavros Kakofeggitis and bread maker Stelios Tsiarkezos have inspired the savoury selection. This new injection into the Colors menu brings the unique squid ink bun to the table; black in hue, fluffy as cotton candy, it is the perfect accompaniment for prawns marinated in lemon confit on a bed of healthy rocket and avocado with oven-baked root vegetables on the side. Group Food & Beverage Manager Yiannos Gregoriou then introduces the true concept of gastronomy: “Pairing food with wine is like mixing your palette before committing to a brushstroke,” he says. “I would take the popular crab salad and complement it with the Marques de Caceres Albarino DOC Rioja or a glass of champagne sparkle. But for a tasting platter, the fine cheese plate goes well with Futures Shiraz from Barossa Valley, Australia. It has a slight ageing in the barrel that sits well with the rich truffle Pecorino al Tartufo and Black Grana aged parmesan.”
S P E C I A L F E A T U R E all-new colors café
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ICE CREAM CREATIONS made with Colors original gelato are always a tempting favourite for young and the young at heart.
The breads at Colors are handmade and baked at the Four Seasons, prompted by a visit to Germany on the one hand, and the teaching of master baker/chocolatier Oriol Balaguer from Spain on the other hand. Exclusive to Colors and not found anywhere else in Cyprus are the chia superfood loaf, the corn and oat loaves, which are served in closed or open sandwiches and are extremely popular as part of the take-away menu.
ARTISTIC BLENDS OF BEVERAGES Tiers of pure white teapots, flasks and vessels are displayed on the vast screen behind the servers where the air is filled with the aromas of different kinds of coffee, especially the new Honduras single origin beans. Yiannos invited six coffee importers to the hotel, where a blind tasting resulted in this new blend of coffee being introduced to the Colors guests. He explains: “We don’t mix this with milk; it is served as espresso, filter, or the cold brew, which takes 12 hours to produce one litre. Nespresso Indian origin is perfect as a latte or cappuccino, and of course, our frappe is still considered the best.” Teas, infusions, and the new Tonic Bar create an alternative, with healthy combinations based on protein, carbs or calorie value, taste or texture. And as the day closes in and night owls appear, the street life of the front deck dissipates and the rear deck comes to life. Overlooking the new infinity pool with sparkling fairy lights, this is the time and place to enjoy a host of spirits, wines and cocktails. Favourites include Hendricks, alongside the subtle Mediterranean tang of Mare gin, cognacs and 18-year-old whiskies. Chill music emanates from surround speakers among swaying palm trees; the feeling of relaxation is complete. Colors Café Manager Michalis Theodorou and his team are all set to welcome you, so you can enjoy the new venue firsthand. Till then, Nick Aristou offers his own interpretation: “We had an excellent first violin, but now we have a Stradivarius; the wonders of fine tuning can be sensed at every level of the new Colors Café experience.” Four Seasons Portrait
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NICOSIA: 19C & D Themistokli Dervi, Tel: +357 22 670036 | Tel:22 670036 | Fax:22 672722 LIMASSOL: Limassol Marina | Tel: +357 25 051244 | e-mail:modain@primehome.com www.modain.com.cy
MODA IN B O UT I Q UE
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SALADS AND SANDWICHES are prepared throughout the day with the finest ingredients. Originals include the Colors Club Sandwich of crispy pancetta layered with succulent chicken breast, egg and cream cheese (top left) alongside innovative recipes of squid ink buns filled with marinated prawns and lemon confit (bottom right). Pies, savouries, salads and artisan breads; meats, seafood and vegetarian options - all made to order.
242, Arch. Makariou Ave. 3105 , Limassol T. +357 25371010 www.rococobtq.com / SHOP ONLINE info@rococobtq.com
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A COLOUR SPLASH Pan-seared scallops, langoustine and calamari in hues of pink and orange together with baby spinach create a kaleidoscope of colour, disrupting the monochrome taste vortex of cauliflower and squid ink.
G A S T R O N O M Y se a f ood b a r‑
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SUMMER The Seafood Bar is a dining oasis that emerges at dusk on the Vista Terrace. With a revised menu boasting its most refreshing repertoire to date, every discerning palate will discover the taste of serendipity.
are a bittersweet prelude to a bed of Alaskan crab, beautifully veiled with a tart apple vinaigrette.
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} HIDDEN TREASURE A visual feast where ribbons of fennel, lemon confit and pickled apple spheres
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SUSHI AND SPICE Every maki piece unlocks
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pockets of sweet and sour flavours. Avocado, cucumber and mango salsa elevate the torched scallop while kimchee, pickled peppers and yuzu are a befitting kick to tuna.
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SEAFOOD SHOWBOAT Known as the scarlet shrimp, this king of the Atlantic sails on a tangy vessel of fennel
confit, shellfish and lemongrass reduction after being slowpoached in citrus butter.
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Sunset transforms the Vista Terrace into a dining oasis as the Seafood Bar is set in motion. The setting is casual yet sophisticated; the view is a slice of Mediterranean perfection. And what you find on the menu elicits a more leisurely approach to epicurean pleasure, as you abandon the concept of pre-defined courses and instead enjoy the spontaneity of sampling and sharing according to taste. Simply open the menu and let your mood and palate decide what to choose, and in which order. The collection of light bites covers a spectrum of textures and flavours, ranging from briny treasures with delicate seasoning to more complex culinary compositions. Gillardeau Special and Tsarskaya oysters can be relished with simple dashes of Mignonette sauce and lemon or with unconventional additions of mango condiment and lemongrass jelly. Palate coolers include the signature sushi rolls where the chef’s creativity is manifested in its most colourful and intricate form. The appetizers are the most characteristic of fusion cuisine, with each dish presenting a unique synthesis of elements. Describing the new items on the menu, Chef Stavros Kakofeggitis pinpoints the common denominator: “This year’s additions to the menu are the epitome of freshness, inspired by the treasures of Mother Nature.” Flavours of fruit and vegetables act as light brushstrokes on the briny canvas of fish, shellfish and other seafood to form culinary masterpieces. Forest fruits lend their raw flavour, root vegetables are transformed into tantalizing purées, and citrus fruits work their magic in potent condiments and confit. These palatable offerings have depth and sophistication but are also light and well-balanced to form a refreshing assortment of seafood splendour.
G A S T R O N O M Y s e a fo o d ba r
FLAVOURS OF FRUIT AND VEGETABLES ACT AS LIGHT BRUSHSTROKES ON THE BRINY CANVAS OF FISH, SHELLFISH AND OTHER SEAFOOD TO FORM CULINARY MASTERPIECES.
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A WINDING ORCHARD A colourful wreath of Granny Smith apple, caviar, raspberries and basil leaves graces feather-thin slices of fresh scallop dressed in lime, apple juice and olive oil to become a unique flavour garden.
EXCLUSIVE SEAFRONT LIVING A world-class seafront development, in ultra-desirable coastal Limassol in Cyprus, with unobstructed sea views from all apartments. Residents will enjoy luxurious interiors with impeccable specification as well as five star facilities including a spa, gym, residents lounge, concierge, club house and a unique high-end shopping and dining plaza.
TWO TO SIX BEDROOM RESIDENCES AVAILABLE FOR SALE
For more information or to arrange a private appointment contact: Limassol, Cyprus T +357 25 510 888 E info@limassoldelmar.com
limassoldelmar.com
DINEAROUND A gourmet excursion
FOUR SEASONS RESTAURANT COLLECTION VIVALDI BY MAVROMMATIS
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S E A S O N S O R I E N TA L
SEAFOOD BAR
Cuisine
Cuisine
Cuisine
FINE MEDITERRANEAN
AUTHENTIC ORIENTAL
FINE SEAFOOD AND SUSHI
Opening time: 19:30 Last order: 22:30
Opening time: 19:00 Last order: 23:00
Opening time: 19:00 Last order: 22:30
Combining award-winning Italian cuisine and the Four Seasons longstanding relationship with Cypriot Chef Andreas Mavrommatis from Paris, Vivaldi by Mavrommatis serves an extended menu of fine and fresh Mediterranean cuisine. Culinary highlights originating in Spain, Italy, Greece and Cyprus are enhanced with Four Seasons ambience and service.
Boasting a regular flow of awards, Seasons Oriental is known to serve authentic Oriental dishes in the style of sophisticated Hong Kong cuisine. Our chefs have mastered the practice recommended by the Chinese proverb: ‘Preserve the old, but know the new’, to bring you traditional favourites adapted to contemporary preferences.
Summery seafood dishes, as well as sushi and nigiri prepared on the spot and the finest treats including oysters and caviar are served on the terrace with the perfect sea view. To perfectly complement the menu, an extensive wine list offers everything, from white Burgundy and Chardonnay to Ruinart Champagne.
G U E S T p rivile g e s
Our DineAround programme, which offers you exquisite meals at preferential prices, is once again yours to enjoy this summer season. The gourmet collection includes the most popular cuisine, served in five different award-winning restaurants and in enchanting settings across the Four Seasons and the Amathus Beach Hotel. Enjoy your gourmet excursion… It’s an exclusive pleasure for our valued guests. Bon appetit!
AMATHUS RESTAURANT COLLECTION LIMANAKI
THE GRILL ROOM
DINEAROUND DETAILS DineAround offers you a 3-course menu that includes a choice of starter, main dish and dessert from the à la carte menu, at a set price of €53 per person. At Limanaki you can choose one of two pre-set menus.
Cuisine PREMIUM CLASSIC GRILL MENU
Opening time: 19:30 Last order: 23:00
Opening time: 19:00 Last order: 22:30
Undoubtedly Limassol’s finest fish restaurant, Limanaki has been further upgraded to welcome you in a seafront setting with a revised and enriched menu. From crispy fried calamari to fresh lobster on homemade pasta to follow delectable seafood appetizers, whatever you choose promises to be a memorable Mediterranean experience.
With a magical bay view, The Grill Room offers you prime cuts of Australian, Scottish, American, French, Irish and Spanish beef, lamb and pork, as well as fish, shellfish and poultry – all grilled to perfection. Quality, service and ambience come together to fulfil your desire for a tasty meal flavoured with that distinctive sizzle and aroma.
The offer is applicable for a minimum of 3 dinners in the restaurants of your choice from the DineAround collection.
The offer can be booked for any number of people for each meal.
A voucher for the total number of persons for each meal is issued by the Reception staff, who can also make your reservations at the restaurants of your choice.
Please present your voucher at the restaurant upon arrival.
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GUIGAL
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CHÂTEAU D’AMPUIS, a Renaissance jewel on the banks of the Rhône, is home to the headquarters of Maison Guigal.
W I N E G u ig a l
Marcel Guigal is the quiet force behind the award-winning Rhone Valley wine estate of the same name. The Four Seasons was delighted to host his presentation of the latest Guigal wines to charm connoisseurs in Cyprus and beyond.
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e W I N E G u iga l
Even if you believe managers are born, not made, it cannot be easy for any teenager to suddenly find himself in charge of an established wine house in France. Yet that is the story of Marcel Guigal.
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ROOTED IN THE RHONE VALLEY
MONSIEUR MARCEL GUIGAL
and his wife, Madame Bernadette Guigal, at the Four Seasons in Limassol, during their visit to
Cyprus to present a new collection of Guigal wines.
In 1961, when the French winemaker Etienne Guigal suddenly lost his eyesight, his 17-year old son Marcel dropped everything to take over the management of the House of E Guigal. Unexpected as it was to be in control of the Rhone Valley estate that was established in 1946, the young Guigal rose to the occasion like a duck takes to water. He clearly remembers: “When I was just seven years old, my father asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. The answer was obvious to me; I told him I wanted to make the most exceptional wine – just as my father did.” The rest is not only history, it is a dream come true for Monsieur Guigal. His wines have received the ultimate score of 100/100 a record-breaking 33 times. The leading wine writer and Financial Times columnist Jancis Robinson called him “simply the best winemaker on the planet”. Decanter magazine elected him Man of the Year in 2006, saying: “Guigal, for almost four decades, has not put a foot wrong; he never falters, never disappoints.” These and other accolades culminated in Drinks International’s annual classification of the top 50 most admired wine brands, which lists Guigal as ‘The World’s Most Admired French Wine Brand’ and the second most admired European brand. Even when history doesn’t repeat itself, it rhymes. And so it was that Marcel Guigal’s son, Philippe, shared his passion for wine. After graduating in the field with flying colours, he joined the business and is now the House of Guigal’s third generation expert oenologist.
FOUNDATIONS OF SUCCESS
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Success did not fall into Marcel Guigal’s lap. He says: “I’ve been working for 56 years, starting at 5am every day, either in the cellars or in the office.” So it’s not surprising that he is known as Mr Syrah and Mr Viognier, implying his powerful bond with the two key varieties that are at home in the Rhone Valley. Guigal says: “The three factors of success are quality, quality, and quality.” Although he has an eye on demand and an ear to the ground of the industry,
GUESTS OF HONOUR at the Guigal Gala Dinner included (left to right) Mme Bernadette Guigal and guest, First Lady Andri Anastasiades, Victor Papadopoulos, M Marcel Guigal, Christos Mouskis
} business acumen can only go that far. Guigal insists: “It’s all in the bottle.” And what goes into the bottle comes out of the soil, the terroir, and the microclimate that surrounds it. “The key to quality is in the terroir. Without the terroir, even a magician cannot produce an exceptional wine. The best he can achieve is a good wine,” says Guigal, who can virtually look at the soil and envisage what it can produce. Such insight and expertise can be neither bought nor stolen; it is the result of a lifetime of wine making, wine learning, and accepting that there is always room for improvement – in the vineyard, the cellar, and the vinification process. And then there is patience. “Our healthy growth is a result of wine ageing, which is absolutely necessary to achieve the desired quality. You cannot – must not – try to speed things up.” Upholding tradition and keeping the business safe in the hands of the family are trademark qualities of the House of Guigal. “In the Rhone valley, we are not the first in volume, but the first in value,” says Guigal. And everyone will confirm that the gentle power of the House of Guigal radiates from yet another woman behind her strong man – Madame Bernadette Guigal.
HOUSE OF TREASURES
THE CYPRUS CONNECTION With Guigal wines sold in 127 countries around the world, it is flattering that M. Guigal should choose to personally present his new range of wines on the small island of Cyprus. Papadopoulos says: “Marcel is not just an amazing winemaker, but also an amazing gentleman who loves our country.” The focal point of his visit was the wine tasting event at the Four Seasons. Organized by La Maison du Vin on 25 May 2017, it was followed by a gala dinner for some 120 guests, including the Ambassador of France, Cyprus sommeliers, hoteliers, F&B professionals, journalists and clients who enjoyed a 5-course meal, each course accompanied by a Guigal wine to match. During their stay, Monsieur and Madame Guigal enjoyed touring Cyprus, with Papadopoulos offering them a cross section of local wines. Guigal’s advice to Cyprus winemakers? “Protect the original wines. Vines also have DNA; they know where they belong.” But that doesn’t mean that we cannot advance and improve. On the contrary: “Even in France where we produce the best wines, in winemaking you never come to an end. As in medicine, you keep learning. Because like the human body, wine is alive. And the more you know, the more you know what you don’t know. Most importantly, never look back; always focus on the future.” A votre santé!
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Robert M Parker, a leading US wine critic whose opinion shapes trends around the world, was unequivocal when he said: “In the past 26 years I have spent visiting wineries and vignerons, I have never seen a producer so fanatical about quality as Marcel Guigal.” Three single vineyard wines in particular top the ranks. Affectionately referred to as ‘La-La-La’, the three Guigal treasures are La Mouline, La Landonne and La Turque – and they are reserved for regular customers. In fact, buyers may not exceed a fixed quota of this treasured triad within their overall order of Guigal wines; and to offer even smaller
buyers fair access to the Guigal treasures, the quota drops as the order volume increases. Victor Papadopoulos, Managing Director of La Maison du Vin, the exclusive distributor of E Guigal in Cyprus says: “In the past I used to almost beg Marcel to sell me more of these outstanding wines, but he would never sell me even one bottle more than the quota. But as a friend, he has given me so many more, as a gift, for my personal consumption.”
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sizes and colours were made of robust and pliable reeds, grasses, rushes and bamboo to serve a variety of everyday purposes.
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BASKETS IN DIFFERENT SHAPES,
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HERITAGE
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An icon of the authentic rural Cyprus of bygone eras, the intricate art of basket weaving is making a contemporary comeback, with a few committed individuals using rare skills passed down through the generations, to revive this traditional craft and weave new passion and energy into the stunning baskets they create.
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PETROS NICOLAOU is committed to breathing new life into this traditional craft by sharing his passion and his skills with the next generation.
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joined at the top with a rope bridge, the siriza basket was saddled on either side of a bicycle, motorbike or donkey to carry heavier items, while the famous tube-like galari basket from Akrotiri was used to make cheese, thanks to the water reeds’ easy draining and reinforced strength when wet. Like an old-fashioned Tupperware, the round korokoliosis baskets with their sealable lids would carry fruit and keep olives and cheese fresh, while the boukala basket was made around bottles to protect olive oil or wine from the sun. The ingenious, round, flat tabagia baskets were made to hang bread from the ceiling, out of reach of pesky mice and hungry children. Historically, the two main centres for basketry were Larnaca and Akrotiri, where the naturally marshy landscape is the perfect habitat for the materials used to make strong and flexible baskets. “For the Akrotirians, basket weaving isn’t a tradition, it’s a way of life,” explains Varnavas Michael, from the Akrotiri Environmental Education Centre, which sees the protection of this craft as a priority and a cultural must. “Basket weaving has given us life. The Salt Lake and the marshes are the reason why people settled in Akrotiri.”
Sitting in the dappled shade of a leafy canopy in the courtyard of his traditional stone house, Petros Nicolaou – a 42-year-old basket weaver from Paphos – makes the intricate craft of traditional Cypriot basketry look misleadingly easy. With impressive dexterity, his fingers dart back, forth, in and out, with the speed and skill of experience, as he speaks fervently about his love for his work and his desire to keep the tradition alive. “I love my job,” he says. “I put my passion and energy into every basket I create, to make sure it is beautiful.” Although it is hard to say exactly how far back traditional basketry dates, this long-standing craft was once common practise in Cyprus. As recently as 30 years ago, men and women in villages across the island would balance techniques and artistry to create beautiful baskets both for their own use and to earn a living.
VARIED AND VERSATILE
It is this deep-seated cultural relevance that motivates weavers like Varnavas. He says: “Basket weaving is in our DNA. Our grandparents were making baskets in this area. It’s a heritage we need to protect.” Today, as the older generation of basket weavers passes on, artisans by choice, like Maria and Petros, are determined to pass their knowledge on to the next generation, just as they were introduced to basketry by the generation before them. Like many others, Petros was taught how to weave as a child by his grandparents, who earned their living harvesting materials to craft Cypriot baskets to sell across the island. Never imagining that this skill would one day shape his career, Petros now works full time, weaving baskets for individual clients and businesses, as well as conducting hands-on demonstrations for tourists, both in Cyprus and abroad. “I feel very proud to be a custodian of this legacy,” he says. Maria also comes from a long line of Akrotirian basket weavers. She says: “It’s the heart of the village. It’s how we keep the marsh alive and protected. It’s in our genes; it’s part of us.”
FROM FUNCTION TO DECORATION In today’s fast-paced society, the demand for traditionally woven baskets has dropped. Mass produced alternatives made of longer-lasting materials such as plastic have taken precedence, thanks to their convenience and lifespan. However, in alignment with the current global interest in sustainability, basket weaving advocates such as Maria, Petros and Varnavas encourage Cypriots to return to their roots and embrace both the environmental advantages and the functional and aesthetic superiority of natural materials. “When baskets are eventually no longer usable, you can just ‘return them to nature’. In the soil they are biodegradable and will not harm the environment in any way,” Maria explains.
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Cyprus baskets are made of robust and pliable materials such as water reeds, grasses, rushes and bamboo, and they come in many different shapes, sizes and colours. At their peak, these iconic baskets were used to serve different purposes. “Baskets were used in cheese production, for storing olives, to carry necessary supplies for a day working in the fields, for farming grapes, for travelling, for hanging bread from the ceiling and for storing food,” says Maria Polly from Akrotiri, an ex-fitness instructor turned basket weaver, who, like Petros, is committed to breathing new life into the tradition. The short, wide zempilia baskets were created to make olive oil, with the olives inserted through a narrow circular hole at the top and crushed inside the basket to extract the oil. Resembling a modern-day shopping bag, the tall, square tsanta was made with rope handles, to carry food and items needed for daily work. With two twin baskets
FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION
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VARNAVAS MICHAEL (middle) from the Akrotiri Environmental Education Centre sees basket weaving not just as a tradition, but as a valuable element of local heritage that must be protected.
Apart from being environment-friendly, other advantages of traditional baskets include the flexibility and strength of the materials, the natural smell, the uniquely charming aesthetic and the superior draining capabilities. But the decrease in demand is not the only change affecting the traditional basket weaving niche. On the positive side, these beautiful and intricately created objects have now taken up a new role as decorative items in the homes of Cypriots yearning to stay connected to their roots, and visitors looking for a souvenir of Cypriot culture to take back home with them. “These days, many Cypriots love to have traditional baskets hanging on the wall as decoration. People want to have something traditional in their homes; it is part of our culture,” says Petros.
A LOOK TO THE FUTURE
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Another way today’s weavers are bringing the craft into the 21st century is by subtly adapting the products, designs and colours. Maria, for example, has started creating new basket designs which didn’t exist before, and has also introduced trendy hats made by using the same techniques as basket weaving. Explaining her motives Maria says, “I am trying to adapt, but also to encourage people to incorporate basketry in their daily life again.” Petros has also introduced basket shapes and sizes with a contemporary twist. “My clients often give me ideas, and slowly I introduce new designs that we weren’t making in Cyprus in the past,” he says. “I stick to the traditional materials and the same methods, but use my imagination to meet the needs of today’s customers.” Acknowledging that the next generation and the local community are key to the survival of this tradition, the Akrotiri Environmental Education Centre has been running basket weaving classes for the past eight years. Three years ago the Centre also launched a programme with the University of Frederick in Nicosia to raise awareness of basketry among the younger generation of artists. “Using traditional basketry as a base, the students married new and old techniques to make innovative and contemporary items,” says Varnavas. “After the programme, the government showed an interest in promoting basket making and encouraging people to use baskets in their home, for either ornamental or practical purposes.” The Akrotiri Environmental Education Centre is also working hard to preserve and protect the tradition, including bidding for basketry to be recognized by UNESCO, and offering lessons for tourists and schoolchildren of all ages. Doing his bit to nurture the tradition, Petros has taken on two young students who share his passion and eagerness. He says: “I don’t know what is going to happen in the future; what I do know is that as long as my hands and my fingers are working, I will never stop, because we must revive and preserve this tradition. It’s a precious aspect of our island’s cultural heritage and the identity of our people.”
text
p h o t o g ra p hy
Y I O TA M A L L A S
DEC AUDIOVISUAL
ARTISTIC archive
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The Centre of Visual Arts and Research has successfully woven together a historical patchwork where every item has a memory to share. And with recent accolades adding to its achievements, this institution is not only preserving but is now even making history.
C Y P R ULSI M cuA ltuSra S lOhLe rita d iagrye
THE CENTRE OF VISUAL ARTS AND RESEARCH has dedicated a whole Caterina Cornaro, the last queen of Cyprus during its Venetian period.
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exhibition room to
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C Y P R U S c ult ur a l h e r it a ge
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a MAESTRO PLÁCIDO DOMINGO,
President of Europa Nostra, presents the European
Cultural Heritage Grand Prix to Mr Costas Severis during a high-profile ceremony in Turku, Finland, in April 2017.
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A stroll through the heart of Nicosia, between the Green Line and Famagusta Gate, takes you to Ermou Street, once a thriving thoroughfare of the walled city, which was recently restored to revive its historical stature and appeal. As you explore Ermou, you cannot miss the Centre of Visual Arts and Research (CVAR), a unique cultural space dedicated to Cypriot heritage. Inaugurated in 2014, the Centre blends perfectly with its surroundings and embodies the purpose of the Costas and Rita Severis Foundation. What began as a private collection of its founders is now a public platform for exploring and engaging in Cypriot culture. April 2017 marked a further milestone for the CVAR as it received the Europa Nostra award in the category of Education, Training and Awareness Raising. Europa Nostra is the leading organization that supports and celebrates culture across Europe. Dr Rita Severis, Executive Director of the CVAR, says: “Out of a total of 202 organizations and individuals from 39 European countries, we entered the 29 laureates, making us the first Cypriot entry to win in this particular category.” The Centre was also one of the seven finalists on the shortlist of 29 to receive the European Cultural Heritage Grand Prix, another first for Cyprus. In a high-profile event in Turku, Finland, Maestro Plácido Domingo, President of Europa Nostra, presented the award to Mr Costas Severis. Together these accolades are well-deserved recognition of the foundation’s exciting and at times challenging journey spanning over thirty years. “The renovation of the Centre alone took six years, and was made possible thanks to the combined support of USAID, EEA & Norway Grants, UNDP-Act and the De Minimis programme,” says Rita.
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ART AND ARTEFACTS document and reflect the island’s beauty, history, culture and mix of civilizations from the 18th century to the present day.
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REWARDING REMNANTS
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The location is a monument in itself, as the CVAR is housed in what was originally an Ottoman-era khan which later became a flour mill in the early 20th century. The four-storey structure houses tens of thousands of artefacts that document art, history and travel in Cyprus from the 18th century to the present day. It constitutes an interactive panorama, transporting the visitor through the Ottoman, colonial and post-Independence era and showcasing the diversity of cultural influences through the centuries. Among the prized pieces that you can explore are 1500 paintings by travelling artists that share Cyprus as their common muse. Their work includes visual representations of the island’s natural beauty, portraits of key individuals, but also significant events in politics. “We see the 19th century pictorial testimonies of German, British and French travellers as they sketched and painted on long walks,” says Rita. Important works include the landscapes by David Blomberg and the pencil and watercolour depiction of Kyrenia’s Antiphonitis church by Ben Nicholson. The CVAR offers a unique opportunity to observe the relationship between Cyprus and foreign visitors who found creative inspiration here. Characteristic styles of contemporary Cypriot artists such as Kissonergis, Diamantis, and Emin Çizenel can also be admired. Alongside these images, immersive tableaus present examples of tangible history such as costumes and memorabilia through depictions of military life and society. One exhibition room is dedicated to Caterina Cornaro, the last queen of Cyprus during its Venetian period. It includes a portrait of Cornaro from the school of Titian, one of only three paintings of the queen produced by the Great Master and his team. “The subject is believed to be Titian’s very own sister, thanks to her suitable pre-Raphaelite look,” says Rita. “Another painting from the trio is in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, so it is clearly a very significant exhibit.” Displays feature countless written accounts from diaries, manuscripts, letters and official documents, each offering unique insight into life on the island. A total of 25,000 photographs capture rare and otherwise unseen aspects of Cyprus, with many originating in the archive of French art historian Camille Enlart, who visited Cyprus in 1896. “We purchased the family collection, not only because it is the oldest photographic archive on Cyprus but also because he photographed many monuments that do not exist anymore,” explains Rita. The Centre recently acquired the Glafkos Clerides
C Y P R U S c ult ur a l h e r it a ge
NESTLING IN THE HEART OF THE OLD TOWN, the Centre for Visual Arts and Research is committed to educational and cultural outreach across the island and beyond.
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Library, a collection of books and artefacts belonging to the former President of Cyprus, which are invaluable to the 20th century history of the island. The conference hall and terrace with enchanting rooftop views host workshops, seminars and other events, crucial for the upkeep of the Centre as it depends on voluntary contributions.
UNITY IN DIVERSITY
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On the one hand, the Centre is a picture book of the island’s past; on the other hand, its work has important ripple effects beyond its walls. Indeed, it can be described as a ‘living museum’ due to its commitment to educational and cultural outreach programmes across the island. “Museums should not be static temples where the visitor feels detached,” says Rita. “Our objective is to establish a connection with our audience by guiding them to old memories and new ideas.” Scholars can utilize the research centre housing over 10,000 Cyprus-related books and priceless archival material such as photographs and primary documents. This is a field close to Rita’s heart, as her own publications on art history made ground-breaking contributions to the literature on Cyprus. Committed to its values of peaceful coexistence and understanding among all communities of Cyprus, the CVAR hosts countless interactive activities with culture as the key mechanism. With equal attention to all visitors, the Centre is also fully accessible for disabled individuals. It is this social footprint that has been most celebrated by international organizations, with the CVAR’s recent affiliation with the Nobel Peace Prize Centre being among the most important acknowledgements. Past events have included ‘flash mob’ opera performances across Nicosia, theatre productions and through ‘Ermou 1900’, a reconstruction of the street as it was in the 19th century. “We set up stalls presenting various crafts, we brought farm animals, and together with many volunteers, we wore traditional costumes from that period,” says Rita. A loyal following continues to attend the monthly ‘Read a Painting’ sessions as well as the intimate forums where the public can gather and discuss operas and classical music of Cyprus with a panel of passionate experts. The CVAR is a beacon of civilization that remains at the forefront of peace-building and education for the island’s community. Locals will discover fragments of the past that have shaped their own cultural identity. For the discerning tourist, it is a window to the Cypriot society of yesteryear through a heart-warming and enlightening experience.
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L I M A S S O L coa stlin e
text E M I LY M I L L E T T
LIMASSOL’S book of beaches
From the rugged, untouched beaches in the west, to the idyllically peaceful shores in the east, Limassol’s coastline is waiting to be discovered. And with Andreas Papadopoulos’s Limassol Beach Guide in hand, exploring the diversity of the city’s waterfront just got a whole lot easier.
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L I M A S S O L c o a s t lin e
ANDREAS PAPADOPOULOS,
author of unique beach guides,
was driven by his love for the sea and his conviction that
the amazing diversity of the
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Cyprus coastline deserved to be
documented for all to explore and enjoy.
Beaches, bays and hidden coves... Andreas Papadopoulos loves the sea. You can hear it in his voice as he describes a coastal hideaway, and see it in his face as it lights up when he recalls the discovery of a new piece of shingle. And you can read it clearly on the pages of his book ‘Discovering Cyprus - Beach Guide - Limassol Beaches and Coastline’. The book was published two years ago, after Andreas returned from his studies abroad to find an island characterized by its iconic coastline and award-winning beaches, yet totally lacking in information about these areas of outstanding natural beauty. “It was quite evident that the city’s beaches lacked the exposure they deserve... No comprehensive guide and no proper signage.” After creating a guide to the free Famagusta beaches in 2007, Andreas was approached by the Mayor of Limassol in 2013 to do the same for the beaches along his city’s long-stretched coastline. “I thought, why not,” he laughs. “I wanted to concentrate on the waterfront, in detail, so there is no beach that I haven’t found. It really is a complete guide.” Although he has been taking photos of beaches for as long as he can remember, Andreas does not consider himself a photographer, nor an author as such; however, he has become quite the expert in beach lingo, and his passion is clearly reflected in the writing.
‘DISCOVERING CYPRUS – Beach Guide – Limassol
Beaches and Coastline’ is the only comprehensive and classified
catalogue of all 33 beaches along the extended Limassol coast.
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CUSTOMIZED CLASSIFICATION
The easy-to-use book is divided into three aptly named sections. The first covers the four beaches of the ‘Romantic East’, from the serene Governor’s Beach till the white rocks and caves at Agios Georgios Alamanou. “Here the beaches are not that isolated, but they are very relaxing and romantic,” says Andreas. The next category comprises the 21 beaches of the vibrant ‘Cosmopolitan Limassol’ coast, from Aorati Beach, passing by Vouppa Beach outside the Four Seasons, all the way to the vast stretch of undeveloped beach that is Lady’s Mile. Last, but definitely not least, are the eight deliciously private and practically untouched beaches of the ‘Wild West’, which Andreas describes as “secluded, secret and wild.” In all, the informative guide features 33 beaches across its 93 vividly coloured, beautifully photographed and descriptively written pages, supported by a customized, birds-eye-view pull-out map. But the classification doesn’t end there; Andreas further supplies his readers with a practical seven-tiered icon guide system which provides information about the beaches’ morphology (whether sandy, rocky, pebbly or covered in seashells), available facilities, terrain and access, traffic, activities and atmosphere.
LIMASSOL’S BEACHES offer something for everyone, from the pristine white chalk cliffs at Pissouri (middle right), to the untamed “wild west” (top right) and the most dramatic cliffs and clear, deep blue
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waters of the remote Zapalo beach (bottom right).
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE One thing that the guide proves is that the beaches of Limassol offer extraordinary diversity. Most of them boast clear, clean waters and darker and harder sand than elsewhere on the island, although after Lady’s Mile towards Akrotiri, Paramali, Avdimou and Pissouri, the morphology changes and you will see more multicoloured pebbles lining the shore, as well as richer flora and fauna. On the Governor’s Beach side, the coastline is rather rocky and dramatic, with very dark sand and white limestone rocks. Shallow waters at beaches such as Lady’s Mile and Cosmopolitan Limassol contrast with deeper waters and more waves in the Wild West area. Andreas says: “Limassol is characterized by its diversity – you have the east for swimming, the cosmopolitan area for socializing, for activities, water sports and walking along the boardwalk, and then you have the wild and fun part in the west where you can find kitesurfing, waves and privacy. In other words, you can find everything in Limassol, and there is also archaeology to be discovered along the way.”
HAPPY BEACH HUNTING
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Although it took around two years to complete the book, Andreas is quick to note: “One of the best parts of the job, and really part of the reason why I am doing this, is for me to explore and discover new beaches I wasn’t aware of before.” Given that the research process involved helicopter flights around the coast and paragliding off the back of a boat with “cameras hanging from my neck”, it’s easy to see why compiling this guide was such as pleasure. Whether you are looking for a treasure trail for the perfect beach holiday in Limassol, or an invaluable record of the beauty of this rich and diverse coastline, ‘Discovering Cyprus – Beach Guide – Limassol Beaches and Coastline’ is on sale at tourist kiosks as well as in large bookshops in downtown Limassol. Published in cooperation with the Limassol Tourism Board and the Cyprus Marine Environment Protection Association (CYMEPA), the book is available in three languages – Greek, English and Russian. Andreas has also published two other books under the Discovering Cyprus umbrella, and offers live updates and tips on the Discovering Cyprus Facebook page, where he will personally answer queries and messages about beaches across the island.
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GREEN
and competitive With Limassol holding the Grand Finals of Europe’s ClimateLaunchpad green business competition this October, event organizers Chrysalis LEAP reveal how local cleantech entrepreneurs are carving out a niche in Cyprus’s burgeoning ecosystem. text A L E X A N D E R DAV I D I A N
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Clean technology – or simply ‘cleantech’ – refers to any process, product, or service that reduces negative environmental impacts through energy efficiency improvements, the sustainable use of resources, or environmental protection activities. Although it has been around since the 1990s, cleantech started slow and is still gaining momentum.
FROM LOCAL TO GLOBAL
CYPRUS-EUROPE PARTNERSHIPS Climate-KIC is one of three Knowledge and Innovation Communities created in 2010 by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology, an EU body whose mission is to generate sustainable growth in Europe. In Cyprus, meanwhile, entrepreneur fever has been on the rise over the past four years, with increasing numbers of young innovators drawn to the glamorously-portrayed world of information technology (IT) startups. It’s easy to see the appeal. “With IT, you can go from idea to full development in six months, or a year; it’s ‘easier’ to expand and you require less capital,” says Chrysalis LEAP founder Alexandros Charalambides. “When you’re talking about cleantech, usually the time taken to mature is a lot longer,” which initially made the sector a harder sell for investors. “Over the last few years, though,” he continues, “as governments and the public demand more environmentallyfriendly solutions, there has been a turn towards cleantech.”
THE TURN TOWARDS CLEANTECH Charalambides is a cleantech entrepreneur himself. In 2013, he and fellow Chrysalis LEAP co-founder and ClimateLaunchpad trainer Paris Thomas established ENERMAP, an online platform providing a database of EPCs – Energy Performance Certificates – supported by Climate-KIC under its Urban Transitions theme. Today, Chrysalis LEAP, as the accelerator pillar in the local collaboration with Climate-KIC, “is running various projects”, notes Chrysalis LEAP’s programme manager Phani Hadjiphani. “One of them is the ClimateLaunchpad competition. We’re also running the accelerator for stages two and three.” “Basically, stage one is: Do you have a [viable cleantech] idea? If so, let’s validate. Stage two is: You have a good idea, let’s find you some clients. Stage three is: You’ve found some clients, let’s see how you can grow,” Charalambides explains. But it all starts by applying with a cleantech business proposal at the national level. Chrysalis LEAP runs both Cyprus and Greece’s intake for ClimateLaunchpad, narrowing down applicants each year to nine or ten teams.
BOOT CAMPS AND PITCH DECKS Applicants, according to Charalambides, tend to fall in three categories: university researchers already working on a green project, inventors (Chrysalis’ 2015 graduates include Fornelia, a team whose concept is to capture and store solar energy in order to power ovens at night), and green-minded members of the public. “Through the ClimateLaunchpad programme – which consists of a two-day boot camp, six follow-up coaching sessions and the national final – the startups receive training and coaching where they can refine their idea, identify their beachhead market, their competitive advantage as compared
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In Cyprus, the evolution of the island’s cleantech innovation drive echoes a startup’s own life cycle in many ways. At first, it was just another good idea seeking traction. But thanks to the vision and creativity of local green entrepreneurs, eventually joining forces with global innovation drivers, the little island that, pre-2013’s economic crisis, was distinctly leery of nontraditional economic sectors, is now set to host the world’s largest green business idea competition. Over October 17-18, and under the auspices of President Nicos Anastasiades, Limassol will be the site of the Grand Final of Europe’s ClimateLaunchpad mega event, whose mission, since its inception in 2014, has been to tap the world’s cleantech potential to address climate change. But nothing happens in a vacuum. The fact that the chic grounds of Limassol’s Carob Mill Museum will host two days of fierce competition between 100 or so entrepreneurial teams from 36-plus countries, picked from rigorous national competitions – and just as the fourth edition of ClimateLaunchpad goes global – is no accident. Rather, it is thanks to the concerted efforts of event organizers Chrysalis LEAP, the island’s first cleantech accelerator in Cyprus, which, together with CUT, the Limassol-based Cyprus University of Technology, and the Cyprus Energy Agency, comprise the local cleantech consortium that collaborates with Climate-KIC, Europe’s largest public-private innovation partnership focused on climate change. And with good cause.
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ALEXANDROS CHARALAMBIDES
to other solutions that are out there, and so on,” explains Hadjiphani. “And then they come to the national final with a complete pitch deck where they compete for the top three seats, which will take them to the Grand Final, where they’re competing with the other participating countries.” This year, ClimateLaunchpad has been extended to non-EU states like Australia, Bangladesh and Kenya and, thanks to its attractive coastal and urban offerings, Limassol will see ClimateLaunchpad’s Grand Final, an event hosted by Chrysalis LEAP and co-organized with the Cyprus Investment Promotion Agency. The semi-final pitching round will take place on October 17. This heat will determine the 15 teams that will then compete in the grand finale before a renowned jury on October 18, vying to be ranked in the top 10, with cash prizes of €10,000, €5,000 and €2,500 awarded to the top three. The top 10 finalists gain direct entry to Climate-KIC’s accelerator programme and access to substantial funding. Themed prizes and workshops will also be offered during the event.
a founder of Chrysalis Leap and National Finalist in 2016.
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GREEN CREDENTIALS Although the event will certainly boost Cyprus’s green credentials, another benefit to the island is the fact that, due to its EU infrastructure, it is attractive to players in regional startup hubs, such as Israel, through which to tap otherwise less-accessible markets. Then there’s the fact that an island as small as Cyprus, with easy access to both private and public agents, means a cleantech idea can be tested from start to finish efficiently, without the costly time lag encountered in more mature ecosystems such as London. For now, with Cyprus’s national finals taking place at the end of July at the headquarters of PwC – Chrysalis LEAP’s strategic partner for the third year running – the countdown to October’s ClimateLaunchpad endgame is running. And looking ahead, odds are Cyprus will continue to punch above its weight in the slowly-expanding cleantech sector. PwC Cyprus CEO Evgenios C Evgeniou stresses: “The power of innovation, when combined with entrepreneurship, can significantly contribute to our country’s economic prosperity and growth.” A similar optimism is echoed by Dutch Climate-KIC consultant and CleanLaunchpad trainer Ron Bloemers, who points out: “The level [of innovation] in Cyprus and Greece matches the average level in Europe; considering the fact that Cyprus and Greece became a startup ecosystem later than mainland Europe and the UK, that’s a major achievement.”
Global experience, local expertise in the Funds Industry KPMG provides comprehensive audit, risk advisory, tax and regulatory services to fund managers in setting up and operating through Cyprus. Our clients look to us for leadership and guidance in areas such as: fund set-up and structuring; regulatory interpretation and support; proactive tax advice; investment acquisitions and due diligence; fund liquidation, re-domiciliation and/or restructuring. Our local practice is at the forefront of industry issues, working closely with the industry and its representatives and actively participating in the firm’s global product development programmes. The combination of a strong local practice, with significant professional and industry experience, along with the global reach of KPMG International fund services network places us in an optimal position to provide added value service to our clients as they address the industry challenges, and guide them in grasping opportunities.
For more information please contact: Christos Vasiliou Deputy Managing Director Primary Contact T: +357 22 209 113 E: cvasiliou@kpmg.com Marie-Helene Angelides Senior Associate Regulatory & Compliance T: + 357 22 209 227 E: mangelides@kpmg.com kpmg.com.cy
©2017 KPMG Limited, a Cyprus limited liability company and member of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (”KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. All rights reserved.
Island of
INCENTIVES With the implementation of new regulations such as the OECD Common Reporting Standard and FATCA on the one hand, and tax authorities applying increasingly stringent measures on the other hand, maneuvering in today’s challenging financial environment has become considerably more difficult. Thus, both individual and corporate investors are turning towards substance solutions, with Cyprus clearly emerging as a preferred jurisdiction among those seeking to optimize their international tax exposure.
text C HARAL AMBOS SAMIR
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C Y P R U S tax structurin g la n d sca p e
There is no legislative definition of “substance”; however, the implementation is based on practical standards which include, among other things, Tax Residency and/or Citizenship for individual investors, and real physical presence for corporate investors.
SUBSTANCE SOLUTIONS FOR CORPORATE INVESTORS The mere fact that a company is incorporated in a certain jurisdiction and pays taxes in that same jurisdiction on its worldwide income is no longer sufficient to guarantee a company’s access to the full treaty benefits offered through the expanding and favourable DTT network that the relevant jurisdiction has to offer. Another country is free to impose its own substance rules – for example, as a result of local CFC rules. In such cases, the onus is on the relevant company (including its foreign beneficiaries) to demonstrate to the foreign authorities that it is conducting real business from, in, or through that specific jurisdiction. That can be achieved in many ways, such as – but not limited to – maintaining a real physical presence in Cyprus, with distinct offices; employment of qualified senior management located in Cyprus; maintaining of accounting records in Cyprus; and the operation of bank accounts with at least one Cypriot bank signatory. Once a company complies with the practical standards of substance and becomes tax resident in Cyprus, it will be taxed on its worldwide income accrued or arising from sources both within and outside Cyprus at a flat rate of 12.5%. Other benefits include, among others: • Tax exemption on foreign dividend income; • No thin capitalisation rules; • Tax exemption on capital gains from the sale of immovable property located outside Cyprus and on the sale of qualified securities; • No withholding tax on outward payments (dividends, interest, royalties) to non-Cyprus tax residents (companies or individuals); • I P box regime with only 2.5% effective taxation. The owners of the company can benefit from an attractive combination of Cyprus citizenship by investment alongside the tax residency non-domiciled.
THE CYPRUS TAX RESIDENCY NON-DOMICILED The new ‘non-domiciled’ rules allow individuals who
are not domiciled in Cyprus, as per the requirements set out in the relevant legislation, to be exempted from payment of the special defense tax on dividends, interest and rental income, despite the fact that they may be Cypriot tax residents. This exemption applies to income even if derived from sources within Cyprus, and regardless of whether such income is used in Cyprus.
KEY BENEFITS • Tax exemption of 50% of the remuneration from any employment exercised in Cyprus (when the remuneration exceeds €100,000 per annum); • Tax exemption of 20% of the remuneration or €8,550 (whichever is lower) from any employment exercised in Cyprus; • Income tax exemption for overseas employment exceeding 90 days; • Nil/reduced withholding tax on income received from abroad; • Exemption from capital gains tax (CGT) on the sale of non-Cypriot real estate.
CYPRIOT CITIZENSHIP BY WAY OF INVESTMENT The Cyprus citizenship programme by way of investment is now easier to apply for as the required investment has been reduced down to €2 million for all applicants. Allowing a variety of investment options for a minimum of three years, without any element of donation, together with the acquisition of residential property worth at least €500,000, the Cyprus citizenship programme stands out as one of the most attractive programmes in the EU.
KEY BENEFITS • Visa-free travel to more than 150 countries in the world, including all the European Union countries, Canada and Australia among others; • Protection by EU legislation and regulations; • Dual-citizenship permitted; • Combination of tax incentives for investors who were granted the citizenship. As the above provides only a general overview, professional assessment and guidance is absolutely necessary to achieve the desired results in compliance with current legislation.
Consultants Limited as well as its affiliated law firm C. Samir & Co. LLC. He specialises in International Tax Planning, Formation of Trusts and Foundations, Mergers & Acquisitions and Establishment of International Structures.
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Charalambos Samir is an advocate and member of the Cyprus Bar Association. He is the Founder and CEO of ConnectedSky Legal & Corporate
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story Bars Manager GEORGE MICHAEL
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On 31 October 2017, George Michael, the Four Seasons’ quintessential Bars Manager will officially retire. Naturally, after 23+ years of employment at the hotel that has been his second home since June 1994, feelings are mixed... If he had to do it all over again, what would he do differently? “I would start working again on 1 November,” he says, as he wonders where all those years went. The fact that he is 13 years past the full retirement age proves just how much George loves his job. As the day approaches, the memories become more intense. There’s the 4-year-old girl who wrote him letters that her mother mailed to him, and which he still holds dear; and the man who came up to him and said, “Do you remember when you used to push me in my pram?” Indeed, George has seen children come with their parents – and then with their own children. So, what’s his secret? It’s not the fact that he has mastered some 1000 recipes over the years, including many of his own creations; and it’s not the long hours he worked to make sure six bars operate like clockwork. He says: “The secret of a great bar is not in the art of mixing, but in the art of conversation. You have to give your guests attention, personal attention. You have to ‘read’ each individual and find the right subject to chat about, at the right time, with each person. Be sociable, be pleasant; and whatever you do, stay away from the subjects of politics and religion.” Sound advice from the Veteran of the Vista Bar, as he prepares to pass the baton, with a blend of pride, satisfaction and a dash of melancholy. What will he miss the most? “Some 20.000 repeaters I got to know over the years; I’ll miss them all… And my team, of course. Bars Manager Marios Demosthenous started a year before me, so we’ve been working together for 23 years. All of the barmen have been here with me for at least 14 years. They were ‘little boys’ when they started. It’s like raising a family; I had to set an example – I made a man out of so many of them,” he says with a chuckle, and a sense of achievement. When all is said and done, the summary is short and sweet: “I consider that it was a lucky moment when I got this job,” says George. “I couldn’t think of a better place to wind down my career. I spent 23 years in the most beautiful, successful hotel in Cyprus – if not in all of Europe. How many people can say that?” That may be an open question, but what everyone can say is that George’s authenticity and personality, his hard work and his humour make him a hard act to follow. From the management, his own team, and all the Four Seasons friends: “Thank you, George, for being you!” You can watch the Four Seasons tribute to George online on the Four Seasons Cyprus YouTube channel.
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