Treasures Magazine - Stademos Hotels

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AN ANNUAL EDITION OF THE AMARA, ELYSIUM & MEDITERRANEAN BEACH HOTELS | A STADEMOS PUBLICATION ISSN 2547-9016

Dr. Nikos Zamboglou

Lofou

Discovering a magical village.

The man who brings the fight against cancer to Cyprus.

Save the date

Cypriot dialect A language of our own.

Some of the highlights you absolutely must not miss.

elusive AMARA

exclusive, eternally yours.

ISSUE 6 | 2018

This is your personal copy to take home with our compliments.

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Welcome to AN ANNUAL EDITION OF THE AMARA, ELYSIUM & MEDITERRANEAN BEACH HOTELS

A STADEMOS PUBLICATION

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Credits

Treasures' publication was created for:

Amathus Avenue, P.O. Box 56767, 3310 Limassol, Cyprus T.: 357 2582 8333 F: 2531 7555 info@amara.com www.amarahotel.com

Queen Verenikis Street, P.O. Box 60701, 8107 Paphos, Cyprus T.: +357 2684 4444 info@elysium.com.cy www.elysium.com.cy

Amathus Avenue, P.O. Box 56767, 3310 Limassol, Cyprus T.: +357 2555 9999 E: info@medbeach.com www.medbeach.com

Publisher Workshop Creative Agency Yianna Charalambous | yianna@workshopcy.com

Editorial Editor in Chief | Elina Demetriou Editors | Rachel Chrysostom, Eleni Hoplaros Copy Editing | Eleni Tsangari Art Art Director | Stavros Anastasiou Senior Designers | Avraam Aristocleous, Alexia Odysseos, Andria Andreou Photography Photographers | Christos Chatzihristou (Whiteleaf Pictures), Marios Charpas (Lemonade Creative) Photo Service | Shutterstock

Print Production Printing House | Kailas Printers & Lithographers Ltd Printing Director | Andreas Kailas

118 Ellados Str., 3041 Limassol, Cyprus T.: +357 25 727788 | info@workshopcy.com www.workshopcy.com © 2018 G.C.S. Workshop Ltd. Stademos Hotels Plc - Treasures magazine is published yearly. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this magazine is expressly prohibited. Publisher reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising material. The authors’ opinions do not necessarily represent the opinion of the magazine’s management.

ISSN 2547-9016

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Contents

Contents

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Our news 2017 was full of exciting moments.

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Save the date Some of the highlights you absolutely must not miss.

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Lofou Discovering a UNESCO-listed village with great architectural importance.

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Elysium redesign Major renovations for the Elysium, led by world renowned LA based interior design firm, Wilson Associates.

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Mix & match A unique dining experience.

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The art of fresh pasta The tantalising flavour of freshly made pasta.

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AMARA Elusive, exclusive, eternally yours.

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Junior suites The newly renovated Junior Suites at the Elysium.

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Aquum Health Spa A day to indulge your body and mind.

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The new face of Paphos We take a look at seven projects in detail.

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Elon Musk Thinker, creator, innovator.

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5 of the best first-class airline cabins First-class flying at its absolute finest.

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PlusSea Lifestyle Bar Life is better at the beach.

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Birds of a feather Find out how and where to catch sight of the Cyprus Warbler, the Purple Heron, and many other feathered beauties.

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Cypriot dialect A language of our own.

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RenĂŠ & Maxime Meilleur The father & son duo making food history at the Savoy.

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A true fighter Dr. Nikos Zamboglou brings the fight against cancer to Cyprus.

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Memories of a Summer day Renowned Greek artist Achilleas Droungas takes visitors on a journey.

Navigate through and enjoy reading.

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Editorial

Stademos Hotels

ceaseless passion

luxurious retreat, home to an eclectic mix of 207 spacious guestrooms and suites, as well as one and two-bedroom Deluxe suites, all of which will offer a spectacular 180-degree panoramic view of the sea. Inspired by Cyprus’ distinctive heritage, accommodation at the AMARA will be a contemporary visual expression of cultural influences and architectural innovation. Referring to our culinary offerings we are delighted to work with two world renowned celebrity chefs, each distinct in their own cuisine.

Our Mediterranean Beach Hotel was closed for a short period during which it underwent a facelift refurbishment, encompassing a range of new and modern enhancements. This comprises of new carpeting in corridors and bedrooms, the installation of new double glazed doors in the inland facing bedrooms, the replacement of fan coil units and also technology upgrades, such as the addition of USB outlets for every guest for elevated comfort.

Designed for the most discerning guests, the AMARA will be a retreat in a class of its own.

Dear Guest, With the completion of another year, we have enjoyed extraordinary times at Stademos Hotels PLC, one comprised of exciting new developments.

The Elysium underwent an intensive landmark renovation, debuting its new look in March 2017.

Partnering with LA based interior design firm Wilson Associates, the hotel was transformed with contemporary updates of selected room types, various eateries and many communal spaces; and the introduction of the new one and twobedroom Junior Suites. Staying true to its distinctive character, the Elysium remains uncompromising on its unparalleled service, offering culinary brilliance and an exceptional guest experience.

Stademos Hotels PLC is also set to open a new luxury five-star masterpiece, the AMARA located in the Amathus region of Limassol. Designed for the most discerning guests, the AMARA will be a

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Another development for our group is the under construction Mediterranean Residences. Expected to be completed by December 2019, this 14 floor tower will feature 1, 2 and 3-bedroom luxury apartments, and a penthouse with its own private pool. Designed by Alexandros N. Tombazis and Associates Architects S.A., the building will reflect the gorgeous aesthetic of the iconic Mediterranean coastline.

2018 looks set to showcase not only our vision of continual growth and development, but also our ceaseless passion for designing extraordinary holiday experiences.

We look forward to having you as our guest in the near future.

Sincerely,

Demos Demosthenous Managing Director

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Editorial

Elysium

commitment

to quality Dear Guest, It is with great pleasure that I extend to you a very warm welcome to the Elysium. We are honoured to have you as our guest.

This year, we are delighted to present our newly renovated premises. 2017 was an exciting year for our hotel. Under the guidance of a world-renowned interior design firm, our deluxe bedrooms, the lobby, and the hotel’s main restaurants, the Epicurean and Lemonia, have been redesigned and transformed. With these changes, we reiterate our commitment to quality, continuing to offer our guests the very best in terms of service and facilities.

We promise to deliver a unique experience of relaxation, culinary enjoyment and precious rest to our valued guests.

Within this spirit, we are heading into 2018 with the same passion and determination. We have planned additional renovations for the remaining hotel areas, and promise to deliver a unique experience of relaxation, culinary enjoyment, and precious rest to our valued guests.

This year, we are also pleased to welcome a major art series by internationally acclaimed Greek artist, Achilleas Droungas. His five paintings, titled ‘Memories of a Summer Day,’ are prominently displayed in the main lobby of the Elysium for guests to peruse and admire.

We look forward to having you with us for another exciting year at the Elysium and we hope that you will have a memorable stay with us.

Sincerely,

Christos Papamiltiadous General Manager

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Editorial

Mediterranean Beach Hotel

our personnel the most vital asset

Dear Guest, It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the 6th issue of Treasures Magazine. This issue marks an exciting year ahead for the Mediterranean Beach Hotel.

I am delighted to announce that following a short period of closure due to the construction of our residential tower adjacent to the property. We have taken the opportunity to transform our hotel with a renovation project. Encompassing new and refreshing contemporary enhancements we aim to elevate our guest experience even higher.

Attention to the smallest detail is paramount with many areas having undergone a complete makeover including floor corridors, guest rooms, balconies, and the Clouds Lounge Bar.

Attention to the smallest detail will be paramount where many areas have undergone a complete makeover.

Furthermore, a new kids club will be established and will comprise of two separate areas that will meet the recreational needs of children of all ages. Each area will offer a fun variety of games, events and activities for kids to enjoy, including movies, mini discos, aerobics, yoga, and much more.

Apart from the improvements to the hotel’s building, 2018 will also see the Mediterranean continue to invest in its most vital asset – our personnel – through a series of coaching and training programmes. This is because we recognize that it’s not only our facilities but also the ability of our people to provide exceptional service that will encourage you - our guests - to repeat your stay at the Mediterranean time and time again.

I am certain that 2018 will be a landmark year for us, particularly with the unveiling of our highly anticipated renovation. We cannot wait for you to enjoy what our hotel has in store for you.

Sincerely,

Vassos Kilanis

General Manager

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Executive Staff Members

Elysium

Management Team

Ciaran Gantly Executive Chef

Vasilis Spyrou

Food & Beverage Manager

Cecile Kemari

Angelos Zacharia Maitre D’Hotel

Spa Manager

Demetris Demetriou Resident Manager

Stalo Zeniou

Executive Secretary

Efi Plotska

Human Resources Officer

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We take a peek behind the curtain at the people in charge of making sure the Elysium runs like clockwork on a daily basis.

Nicolas Bekos

Assistant Bars Manager

Pambos Hadjichristodoulou Chief Engineer

Christos Christou Accounts Supervisor

Dora Rauna

Executive Housekeeper

Cynthia Ates

Guest Relations Manager

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Executive Staff Members

Mediterranean Beach Hotel

Management Team

Marios Nicolaou Chief Engineer

Loizos Telemachou Operations Manager

Christakis Achilleos

Erato Papacharalambous

Executive Chef

Front Office Manager

Stella Egglezou

Human Resources Officer

Maya Nicolaou

Guest Relations Officer

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A behind-the-scenes look at the leadership team responsible for the smooth day-to-day running of The Mediterranean Beach Hotel.

Christiana Lambrou

Sifis Nicolaou

PA to the General Manager

F&B Service Manager

Simos Kouroushis Elena Demosthenous

Bars Manager

Accounts Supervisor

Maria Rigou Spa Manager

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News

Our

News Win a Free 3-Night Stay Elysium Guests At the Elysium, we care about our guests’ feedback.

So much so that we encourage every guest to complete our tailored questionnaire which provides us with critical information regarding the quality of our services and facilities, and what can be done to further improve on them. Those persons who complete the questionnaire enter into a draw which is held once a year, the last of which took place in October 2017. The lucky winners of this draw were Mr. and Mrs. Gallacher who won a 3-night stay for two persons in a deluxe bedroom at the Elysium.

The prize also includes airport pick-up, breakfast, a candlelit dinner for two and a 30-minute treatment for two at our luxurious Opium Health Spa.

Transforming Your Online Experience

In our efforts to ensure that our guests receive the most user-friendly and quality service, online as well, Elysium’s website and online booking platform have been completely transformed.

Realizing that many of our guests are choosing to book their stay at our hotel directly via our website, Elysium understood that it needed to facilitate an online user experience that is more personalized, streamlined and as user-friendly as possible. We hope that you agree that our new website and booking platform have achieved just that.

An online user experience that is more personalized, streamlined and as user-friendly as possible.

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That Sweet Smell of Perfection

The Elysium is proud to introduce its new dedicated Perfumery, the latest addition to its selection of outlets. One's choice of fragrance is intrinsically personal – a signature statement. Elysium’s exclusive perfumery will depart from high street norms, offering instead a selection of the most esteemed products from world-renowned luxury perfume houses, such as Amouage, Puredistance Master Perfumes, Xerjoff, Casamorati, Roja Parfums, Nasomato, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Escentric Molecures, Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle, Terry de Gunzburg, and more. We look forward to welcoming you to our perfumery to discover your unique scent, and invigorate your senses. Located in the lower lobby, near the Opium Health Spa, the perfumery is open daily from 09.30-13.00 and 15.30-20.00.

Contact T.: +357 2684 4444 (Ext. 5053)

Mediterranean Beach Hotel Guests Honoring our adage that the Mediterranean Beach Hotel is a site at which friendship begins, we always aspire to engage our guests in fruitful dialogue, asking that they give us their honest feedback ensuring we are able to enhance our services and amenities according to their wants and needs. Year-round, a dedicated questionnaire is available for review, through which questions probe our guests’ opinions on everything from the hotel’s décor, and cleanliness, to food and beverage options, spa treatment variety, leisure facilities, service delivery and more. Appreciating the time and effort given, we enter each guest who has completed a questionnaire in a special prize draw, with the prospect of winning a 3-night stay in a Deluxe Sea View Room. The prize includes a dinner at our Italian signature restaurant Il Tinello and a 30-minute treatment at our Aquum Health Spa. Having taken place in January 2018, the draw has named Mrs. Natalia Jungi as the lucky winner of this year’s prize. We look forward to welcoming our friend Mrs. Jungi back soon!

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News

Our

News

Say it with Flowers.

Another stylish addition to the Elysium’s collection of outlets is a specialist florist.

Timeless and classic, the beauty and appeal of flowers is unsurpassed, whether as a simple gift for a birthday or an anniversary, or as stylish floral arrangements for a special occasion, such as a wedding or a christening. An inhouse florist is available at the Elysium’s sunken courtyard, bringing to fruition the needs of our guests, no doubt enhancing our service offerings significantly.

The Mediterranean Beach Hotel Facelift

Bartenders Choice Award

The Mediterranean Beach Hotel emerged victorious at the 2nd Bar Show, where it won the sought-after Bartenders Choice Award. This two-day action packed event was organized by the Cyprus Bartenders Association, and was attended by bartenders from across Cyprus competing in multiple categories including Cyprus Cocktails and Non-Alcoholic Cocktails. The Mediterranean Beach Hotel was represented in the competition by its very own Juliana Kovaks who has been serving guests at the hotel since 2014. The award for Bartenders Choice was presented to Juliana

by Ron Busman, president of the International Bartenders Association.

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Mediterranean Beach Hotel will be transformed with a renovation project encompassing new and refreshing contemporary enhancements.

The Mediterranean Beach Hotel closed for a short period due to the construction of a residential tower adjacent to the property. During this time, the hotel has also had a transformation with a renovation project encompassing new and refreshing contemporary enhancements to elevate the guest experience even more. Attention was given to the smallest detail with many areas undergoing a complete makeover. This included the fitting of new carpeting in floor corridors and rooms, the installation of new balcony doors for improved soundproofing, renovation of the Clouds bar and the Pool bar, the installation of USB outlets in rooms for each guest, new fan coil units enhancing cooling, reading lights, new curtains for full black out, and the establishment of a new kids club. Recognizing the ongoing changes in childhood, two child friendly areas have been created to meet the recreational needs of children of all ages. The first room offers a variety of games and activities for children up to the age of 12, while a second room is equipped with entertainment geared towards older ages and includes fun activities and events such as movies, mini discos and much more. Furthermore, 2018 will also see the hotel continue to invest in its most vital asset, its personnel, through various development training programmes. This is because we understand that beyond our facilities, it is the distinctive service provided by our staff that encourage our guests to holiday at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel again and again.

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News

Our

News Ice Cream on Wheels

Introducing Il Tinello

The Ristorante Bacco has been transformed.

Reopening as Il Tinello (which means small dining room) in 2017, this venue is the real deal, offering an authentic Italian food experience second to none. Paying homage to a gastronomy that dates back to a very distant past, Il Tinello showcases the very best of Tuscan cooking. Its team of chefs are unwavering in their dedication to traditional recipes and the development of authentic flavours, resulting in a menu that draws on the region’s culinary nuances perfectly. Il Tinello welcomes you this coming season to indulge in a taste of Italy that pushes the boundaries of culinary excellence.

Embracing innovation, the Elysium is super excited about its most recent – and undoubtedly most playful – addition to its culinary offerings: a live-action, freshly made ice-cream trolley.

That’s right! Come dessert, rediscover the simple pleasure of your childhood’s most beloved sweet delight as our dedicated trolley joins you tableside.

You merely place your order and then watch in absolute awe as your ice-cream is created right there and then, in front of you, with some liquid nitrogen and a couple of artistic moves by our chef. A spectacularly fitting end to what was hopefully an already remarkable meal!

The Mediterranean Residences.

14 floors of luxury and sea.

The Stademos Hotel group is currently involved in another ambitious project, the construction of the luxury Mediterranean Residences. Comprised of 14 floors featuring seven 3-bedroom, four 2-bedroom, and one 1-bedroom luxury apartments, as well as a penthouse with its own private pool, this development is anticipated to be completed by December 2019. Designed by Alexandros N. Tombazis and Associates Architects S.A., the tower will reflect the gorgeous aesthetic of the iconic Mediterranean coastline. Residents will have access to all services provided by the Mediterranean Beach Hotel. Owners of the apartments will also have the opportunity to let their property to the hotel for use by hotel guests.

Our hotel group is currently involved in another ambitious project, the construction of the luxury Mediterranean Residences.

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News

Our chefs at the Mediterranean Beach

Our

Hotel are at the forefront

News

of creating a gastronomy experience for every palate.

Top Accolades for the Elysium in 2017

The Elysium was the recipient of a number of awards in 2017 in recognition of its outstanding levels of service and exceptional hotel facilities.

This included the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence and Travellers Choice Winner, the Sovereign Award for Excellence, the FIT Reisen Wellbeing 2017 Award, and the Hotel.com Gold Award. The Elysium has also been recommended on HolidayCheck, the largest German hotel rating platform, and has received an excellent score from customer reviews on Travel Republic, one of the most renowned online travel agents in Europe.

The 3rd L'Oreal Hair Fashion Congress held at the Elysium Introducing Brand New Food Menus

Recent culinary trends are pushing chefs into new directions, transforming cuisines across the globe.

Our chefs at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel are at the forefront of creating a gastronomy experience for every palate. Their drive for developing new taste combinations is motivated not only by the evolution of cooking world-wide, but also by the eclectic tastes of our guests.

Food sensitivities are influencing culinary decision making in restaurants all over the world, including those at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel. An intolerance to ingredients as well as the move towards more health-conscious dishes is resulting in the transformation of food menus that shows no signs of slowing down.

As a result, menus at Mediterranean Beach Hotel eateries Nautica Bistro, Shumi Sushi Bar and Il Tinello, as well as the hotel’s room service menu, have undergone an innovative makeover.

While the freshest and finest ingredients continue to be incorporated onto every plate, new menu changes include the introduction of delicious new dishes, allergy labelling next to every menu item, and indicating whether a dish is vegetarian.

The room service menu in particular offers a plethora of traditional Cypriot flavours. A medley of menu items also comes with a brief history as to where the particular dish originates from, and the manner in which it is prepared.

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The Hair Fashion Congress, the third and largest hairdressing conference in Cyprus, was successfully held at the Elysium. Organized by MPM Distributors Ltd, the exclusive distributors of L’OrÊal Professionnel, this event aims to elevate the hairdressing industry across the island.

Attended by top hairdressers from Cyprus and Greece, the latest trends in cut, color and styling were presented by leading international teams from TONI & GUY in the United Kingdom, and ERIC ZEMMOUR in France, combined with personalized diagnosis and counseling by CLAUDE JUILLARD from France.

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Staff Member

Elysium

Timeless Dedication

By Eleni Hoplaros

Antigoni Demetriou Linen Keeper (Elysium)

Antigoni has been working at the Elysium since the day its doors opened.

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“There is nothing more challenging than handling the laundry for the entire hotel, but I absolutely love it”, says Antigoni Demetriou, Linen Keeper at the Elysium.

belonging to guests remain in tip-top condition. I thrive on getting the trickiest of tasks done, like dry cleaning a wedding dress for instance. That sense of accomplishment is great!

Antigoni has been working at the Elysium since the day its doors opened, some 16 years ago. "I began cleaning rooms but always knew that being responsible for the laundry was where I wanted to be.

Key to getting my job done effectively is good teamwork. I’m lucky to work with an amazing group of people who work hard and communicate well.

The biggest challenge of my job is also the most fun. It’s making sure all personal garments

I would tell a new person starting out in this industry to not let stress get the better of them. Keep calm and as a team, you can do the impossible".

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Staff Member

Mediterranean Beach Hotel

Timeless Dedication

Kikis' culinary skills and extraordinary precision have been admired over many years in the kitchen.

Kikis Lambrou

Sous Chef (Mediterranean Beach Hotel) Kikis Lambrou is the Sous Chef at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel. His culinary skills and extraordinary precision have been admired over many years in the kitchen and are evident in every dish that he creates.

Kiki’s culinary career began when he completed his studies in the early 1970s. His career trajectory over the last 40+ years has seen him work at various top hotels across Cyprus, until he took up his position at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel ten years ago.

"My favorite thing about cooking is the development of flavors that can transform something ordinary into something extraordinary.

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It’s getting creative with the finest ingredients in order to produce something spectacular that drives me.

I don’t have one particular dish I enjoy cooking the most. I enjoy experimenting with a range of cuisines so as to cater to the varied tastes of our guests.

A usual day in the kitchen is a flurry of preparation, menu creation, flavor testing and dealing with any challenges. I am always available to help where needed and this often sees me starting off at one kitchen in the morning, and ending up in another by the end of the day".

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Events

Save the Date Cyprus might be famous for its pristine, Blue Flag beaches, azure coastlines and almost 365 days of sunshine, however, it is also a cultural hotspot, with a number of annual events, festivals, and fairs taking place across the island. Here are some of the highlights you absolutely must not miss!

By Rachel Chrysostom

Paphos

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Paphos Aphrodite Festival

pera lovers can’t miss the annual Paphos Aphrodite Festival, which takes place every September, and hosts international opera performances for local audiences and visitors. The event takes place beneath the stars at the Paphos Medieval Castle in the Kato Paphos harbor, on an open-air opera stage. This creates the perfect atmosphere for opera lovers to enjoy such great performances as Bizet’s Carmen, Verdi’s La Traviata and Aida, Puccini’s Turandot, and many more, performed by internationally acclaimed opera houses.

Visit www.pafc.com.cy for more information.

An open-air opera Paradise Jazz Festival

Founded in 1999, the Paradise Jazz Festival takes place in the center of Polis Chrysochous every September, bringing together jazz lovers from across the island for a weekend of jamming sessions with some of the best jazz musicians from Cyprus and beyond.

/ Shutterstock.com

Logicom Cyprus Marathon

stage creates the perfect atmosphere for opera lovers to enjoy great performances.

Visit www.paradisejazzfestival.com for more information.

Dionysia Festival

The Logicom Cyprus Marathon takes place every March, and is the oldest Marathon in the history of Cyprus. Professional and amateur runners from across the world visit Cyprus to participate in this spectacular running event, which includes a Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and 5K Fun Run. The Marathon follows a scenic route that begins at Aphrodite’s Rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite, and ends at the Paphos Medieval Castle.

Pharos International Chamber Music Festival

This annual week-long event takes place every May, and is organized by the Pharos Arts Foundation. Exploring the many forms of chamber music, the Festival has become one of Europe’s preeminent music festivals, and brings together music lovers in its unique setting at the Gothic Hall of The Royal Manor House in Kouklia, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

In September of each year, the village of Stroumbi in Paphos hosts a festival in honor of Dionysos, the Greek god of wine and revelry, celebrating the island’s many fine wines. This three-day festival, which marks the end of summer, includes wine exhibits, traditional Cypriot song and dance, games, local arts and crafts, and fruit and flower displays. At the end of the festival, a ‘Star Dionysia’ and ‘Miss Grape’ are crowned.

Visit www.logicomcyprusmarathon.com for more information.

Visit www.pharosartsfoundation.org for more information.

Contact T.: +357 2663 3109 for more information.

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Limassol Limassol Carnival

Heralded as ‘the coolest Carnival outside of Rio,’ the Limassol Carnival is certainly a sight to behold. It begins 10 days before Lent, when musicians and dancers fill Limassol’s streets and squares, and parties for crazily-attired individuals are hosted across town, and culminates in the big Sunday Parade, a day before the start of Lent. The day-long event takes place all along Makarios Avenue in Limassol, with revelers dancing away into the wee hours of the morning.

Visit www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy for more information.

The two-day Russian-Cypriot festival takes place every June and includes exhibitions from more than 70 companies.

/ Shutterstock.com

Limassol Wine Festival

Hosted annually at the end of August, the 11- day Wine Festival is held at the Limassol Municipal Gardens and attracts more than 100,000 visitors each year. The four major wineries in Cyprus as well as a number of small independent producers are all present at the Wine Festival, offering visitors a taste of their wares in unlimited amounts. Visitors can also enjoy traditional foods such as kebabs, smoked herring, ‘loukoumades’ and other delicacies, revel in local Cypriot song and dance, and participate in traditional grape-stomping.

Visit www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy for more information.

Russian-Cypriot Festival

Every year, the Russian Embassy in Cyprus, the Limassol Municipality and the Russian newspaper Vestnik Kipra combine forces to organize the Russian-Cypriot Festival with the aim of promoting closer relationships between the two cultures.

The two-day festival takes place every June and includes exhibitions from more than 70 companies, as well as performances by Cypriot and Russian dancers, singers and musicians.

Visit www.cyprusrussianfestival.com for more information.

Cyprus Film Days International Festival

An annual festival beloved by cinephiles across the island, Cyprus Film Days is organized by the Cultural Services of the Ministry of Education and Culture together with the Rialto Theater in Limassol in April of each year. The main objective of the festival is to showcase new stories and new images capable of determining the evolution of the so-called Art of Cinema from a human-based scope. The decision in 2011 to transform Cyprus Film Days into a festival with an international competition category has significantly enhanced this objective, since viewers now have the opportunity to discover the prominent work of upcoming filmmakers who offer new perspectives that explore the limits of film aesthetics. The excellent quality of the international competition section films in combination with the EFFE Label award that the festival recently won, as well as a revamped image, have already set the foundations for further regional and international recognition of this annual event.

Visit www.cyprusfilmdays.com for more information.

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Events

Cyprus Contemporary Dance Festival

T

he Cyprus Contemporary Dance Festival is an annual highlight of the European arts and culture scene, and takes place in Limassol (with some shows in Nicosia) every June. Organized by the Cultural Services of the Ministry of Education and Culture and Rialto Theatre, this festival has since 1998 sought to raise public awareness regarding contemporary dance in Europe. Audiences have the opportunity to view innovative contemporary dance performers from all across Europe, as well as Cypriot dance groups. The festival’s 21 years of success and the recent EFFE Label award is the result of consistency, reliability, and the passion of all those involved in this event.

Island-wide International Festival of Ancient Greek Drama

Every summer since 1997, the International Festival of Ancient Greek Drama has been hosting theatre companies from across the world to present ancient Greek dramas in their own languages, creating a distinctive cultural event with an international flair. The performances are presented in open-air amphitheatres across Cyprus, namely the Ancient Odeon in Paphos, the Curium Ancient Theater in Limassol and the ‘Skali’ Amphitheater in Nicosia, throughout the month of July every year.

Contact T.: 7000 2414 for more information.

Visit www.rialto.com.cy for more information.

Cyprus Rally

The Cyprus Rally is one of the longest-running events in Cyprus. First held in 1970 on a rough, uneven turf, it has since evolved into a one-ofa-kind event that attracts rally enthusiasts from across the world. The rally is hosted in different parts of Cyprus each year, between the months of September and November, with a fun kickoff and extra special Ceremonial Finish that the whole family will enjoy.

Visit www.cyprusrally.com.cy for more information.

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Audiences have the opportunity to view innovative contemporary dance performers from all across Europe, as well as Cypriot dance groups at the Cyprus Contemporary Dance Festival.

Calendar of 2018 Events for: Mediterranean Beach Hotel, Limassol • 7th April: Orthodox Midnight Mass for Holy Saturday. Complimentary transportation to and from the Church provided by the hotel.

• 8th April: Traditional Easter meal following Midnight Mass, which includes 'magiritsa' soup and other specialties.

• 8th April: Easter Sunday Lunch. Watch our chefs roast the traditional Ovelias-style lamb and enjoy a festive aperitif.

• 24th December: Christmas Eve Gala Dinner.

• 25th December: Christmas Day Lunch.

• 31st December: New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner.

Elysium, Paphos • 14th February: Special Valentine’s Day package, including dinner and accommodation.

• 18th February: Carnival celebration dinner.

• 19th February: Green Monday buffet.

• 1st April: Catholic Easter lunch buffet.

• Orthodox Easter Celebrations:

o 6th April: Orthodox Good Friday

with Epitaph Procession in hotel chapel.

o 7th April: Orthodox Holy Saturday

Mass (morning and midnight Mass)

in hotel chapel.

o 8th April: Traditional Easter meal

following Midnight Mass, which

includes 'magiritsa' soup and other specialties.

o 8th April: Easter Sunday Lunch.

Watch our chefs roast the traditional

Ovelias-style lamb and enjoy a

festive aperitif.

• 16th November: Enjoy the annual Beaujolais Nouveau Gala Dinner.

• 24th December: Christmas Eve Gala Dinner.

• 25th December: Christmas Day Lunch.

• 31st December: New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner.

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Staff Members

New Faces We welcome the new members of the Mediterranean Beach Hotel's team in Limassol.

By Rachel Chrysostom

Sifis Nicolaou

B

F&B Service Manager

uilding a relationship with guests is what keeps them coming back. This is something that Sifis Nicolaou knows well, with his 34 years of experience in the hotel industry, and he implements it daily in his position as F&B Service Manager at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel.

"A typical day consists of twenty percent office work, and eighty percent operations. I am constantly on the move, working alongside our entire food & beverage service operations team and making sure everything runs smoothly.

Breakfast is the most important part of my day, as this is when we see almost all of our guests, and it’s a great opportunity to welcome them with a smile and a chat. When you make the time to speak to your guests and address their concerns, you build a relationship with them and in this way, you are gaining repeat customers for years to come. The favorite part of my job is interacting with our guests, and seeing familiar and friendly faces coming back to our hotel year after year.

I am also a very detail oriented person – I love working with food and wine and making sure that our service and standards are impeccable".

Simos Kouroushis Bars Manager

With almost 35 years bartending experience, Simos Kouroushis, Bar Manager at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel, knows a thing or two about crafting the perfect cocktail and welcoming guests with a smile and a friendly face. You can find him at the Pool Bar in the summertime, and in the Blue bar during the winter months.

"A typical day starts with a lot of preparation. We make fresh juice daily, and cut up lemons and prepare the garnishes for our cocktails.

Presentation is important, so I make sure that our team of twenty bar staff are all immaculately dressed and groomed, and our kitchen and serving areas are spotless. The cocktail I always recommend to guests is the Paloma Flower, made with tequila, elderflower, fresh lime and grapefruit juice, agave syrup, egg white, a dash of grapefruit bitters, and grapefruit soda. The favorite part of my job is how social it is. I love meeting new people, but also welcoming familiar faces. Many of our guests are regulars, so I enjoy fixing them a drink and catching up on the day’s news with them".

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Sylvie Tsiampis

Executive Housekeeper “I enjoy nothing more than delivering world class service to guests.” This is something that Sylvie Tsiampis has learned through her experiences in more than 30 countries in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the USA, and practices daily in her position as Executive Housekeeper at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel.

"No two days are the same when you work in a hotel, and this is what I love about my job!

Tomorrow always brings new challenges and new things to look forward to, and this is one of the most exciting aspects of the hospitality industry.

One thing I always make sure, however, is to deliver nothing less than perfectly refined service and attention to detail, and this is something that I try to instill in all members of my team. I have had many years of experience working in five star properties, welcoming some of the world’s most influential people, and the valuable knowledge I have gathered over the years is something that I always try to pass on and share with the rest of the staff. After all, running a hotel is a huge team effort, and we all need each other to make sure the job gets done right! My favourite part of my job is definitely the new hotel openings or the unveiling of a hotel after a renovation.

It’s exciting and deeply satisfying to see guests appreciate all the hard work that went into creating this wonderful experience for them".

Elena Demosthenous Accounts Supervisor

With almost one year at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel¸ Elena Demosthenous has fully settled into her position as Accounts Supervisor, overcoming every new challenge with determination and a smile.

"I’ve had thirteen years of experience in the hotel industry, yet I’ve learned more in this role than ever before. I feel very fortunate to be part of a supportive, high-caliber team, and this has allowed me to strive for excellence in everything that I do. I very much enjoy taking on new challenges and meeting them headon, and because of this, my responsibilities have also grown. A typical day for me consists of a lot of interaction with the hotel’s many other departments, especially the bars and restaurants, to ensure payments run smoothly and accounts are reconciled. My proudest moment in this role was when I first began working at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel, alongside another new employee on my team.

Faced with a brand new environment as well as a new team, we collaborated well together to ensure a smooth transition with not a single drop in the levels of quality expected from our department. It was then I learned that good teamwork is of paramount importance".

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Discovering

Discovering

Lofou

Meandering through its labyrinth of cobbled streets and gorgeous houses restored using local stone composed of milk and coffee hues, it’s no surprise that Lofou has been listed by UNESCO as a village with architectural importance.

By Eleni Hoplaros

L

ocated some 26 kilometres northwest of Limassol, the village of Lofou was until 20 years ago all but abandoned. Residents have however begun returning, meticulously restoring this picturesque village, preserving what is its distinctive authentic character. While no historical records exist confirming the exact year the village was established, archaeological relics found in its eastward entrance suggest that the area was inhabited from the Bronze Age. Built amphitheatrically on the peak of a hill is how Lofou is said to have gotten its name. It was originally called Lofos which in Greek means hill. Situated between mountains makes Lofou a great respite from the summer heat for visitors, with cooler temperatures lasting from Easter to October.

A walk through Lofou is a walk through rich history and traditions

There isn’t one word that could suitably encompass the beauty, tranquillity, unique history and traditions that characterise the fabric of Lofou Village.

It’s an ideal destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Walking through its cobblestone streets, you will come across the beautifully frescoed 19th century Church of Panagia Chrysolofitissa which is devoted to the Annunciation of Virgin and the Chapels of Prophet Elias (whose icon some believe has the miraculous ability to stop the rain from destroying grain crops), Agios Georgios and Agia Marina. Well worth visiting to discover more about Cypriot culture and traditions

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are the village’s Olive Press Museum with its restored olive oil press, the Folk Art Museum, an old house filled with relics evidencing how the people of Lofou once lived, and the Community Agricultural Museum. Also follow Lofou’s 1.5km walking trail which will take you to the traditional faucet of Elitji dating back to 1842, which served the water needs of the villagers until 1953.

Enjoy the Palouzes Festival every September which aims to promote Cypriot rural heritage and revitalization. During the festival, you can indulge in some Palouzes, a traditional Cypriot dessert made from grapes thickened with flour and appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship of potters and woodcarvers exhibiting their work.

Lofou is as famous in Cyprus for its quality of wine as it is for its architectural splendour

Lofou plays an important role in the wine producing region of Ampelochoria, with the cultivation of vineyards being a long-time livelihood here.

Lofou falls within the Krasochoria of Limassol's Wine Route, one of 7 wine routes comprised of some of the most delightfully charming villages in Cyprus, a few of which still produce wine today using the old traditional methods.

Indicative of the long winemaking past of this area is the name Krasochoria which consists of two Greek words translating to ‘wine’ and ‘villages’. For those enamoured by the history of viticulture in this region and the allure of exceptional local wine, a tour of this wine route is a definite must.

There isn't one word that could suitably encompass the beauty, tranquillity, unique history and traditions that characterise the fabric of Lofou Village.

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Hotel Redesign

Amy Jakubowski

World Class

Redesign In 2016, the Elysium underwent a number of major renovations, led by world renowned LA based interior design firm, Wilson Associates. We caught up with Wilson Associates Managing Director and Creative Director, Amy Jakubowski for some insights on her creative process, her inspiration for the Elysium's redesign, and her delight in Cyprus sunsets.

By Rachel Chrysostom

W

ilson Associates has worked on a number of luxury hotels worldwide. How do you go about choosing your projects?

We’re known for selecting high-caliber luxury hotels that match the vision of our brand. We’ve created iconic and avant-garde spaces, including Signiel Seoul at Lotte World Tower, Korea's tallest building, the fifth tallest in the world; Hilton Jinan South Hotel, located in China and Le Lapin—a modern and quirky French eatery, located at the top of I.M. Pei's Macau Science Center.

For hotels that already have an established aesthetic - for instance, the Elysium's grand, palatial design - how does your team go about upgrading this without losing sight of the original design elements?

We embraced the Elysium’s original architecture and sensitively designed around the palatial style influenced by the Byzantine era. The cultural references of its architecture evokes the rich history of Cyprus and combine elements from Greek, Roman, Medieval and Venetian times. We enhanced the existing architectural elements and balanced them with luxurious contemporary furniture further enriching the palatial interior. We created a sense of place and tradition with a blend of local stone, marble and timber, warm muted colors with pops of blues and fuchsia tones reflective of the surrounding sea and flowering foliage and decorative features such as mosaics, arches and columns. Guests can enjoy a relaxing and stimulating stay in a peaceful and secluded environment.

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What goes into a typical day's work for large-scale projects abroad, such as this one?

Every design project goes through a beginning and an end, and there’s a tremendous amount of work that takes place in between. One day, a designer is reviewing a wide array of textile patterns for the guest rooms and the next day you’re surveying architectural lighting fixtures for the lobby.

What drew you to the Elysium and where did you seek inspiration from for this redesign?

Our goal was to create a sense of place and destination for guests. We drew inspiration from the breathtaking natural surrounding landscape in Cyprus and views of the Mediterranean Sea. The color palette, for example, consists of Mediterranean blues, taupes, brown and beiges to highlight the interiors.

Was this your first project in Cyprus? What were your impressions of our island?

Yes! It was beautiful. There’s a friendliness and warmth throughout the people of Cyprus and that translates into the design of the Elysium's interiors.

I really enjoyed visiting Paphos. The sunsets are gorgeous and breathtaking. I remember seeing Cypriots just sitting outside and watching the sunset before dinner.

Every design project goes through a beginning and an end, and there's a tremendous amount of work in between.

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Dining

Mix & Match A Unique Dining Experience

By Eleni Hoplaros

T

he Elysium continues on its path of playfulness with a new dining experience set to elevate its guests’ culinary journey to an unprecedented level.

Aware of the fact that our choice of food is profoundly personal, and every meal an occasion for expression, Ristorante Bacco at the Elysium recently introduced its innovative ‘Mix & Match’ concept.

This new ‘Make Your Own Menu’ offering gives guests the opportunity to design their own gastronomic experience using a large wooden plate and labelled golfstyle balls.

Intrigued? Book your table and become enamoured with explosive food flavours all over again.

"Make your own menu" gives guests the opportunity to design their own gastronomic experience.

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Pasta

The Art of Fresh Pasta

By Eleni Hoplaros

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here is that something about homemade pasta that is mouthwateringly delicious. The tantalising flavour of freshly made warm pasta paired with a sauce comprised of the freshest ingredients makes for a delectable culinary experience.

This is why we are so excited about the Elysium’s recent purchase of its new pasta making equipment which facilitates the production of fresh pasta daily.

At the Mediterranean Beach Hotel we cannot wait for you to try our Il Tinello restaurants’ selection of fresh pasta dishes packed with the finest flavours that are certain to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. Be certain to indulge yourself.

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The tantalising flavour of freshly made warm pasta paired with a sauce makes a delectable culinary experience.

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Staff Member

A warm

welcome Evdoxia Paschalaki Head Receptionist (Elysium)

By Eleni Hoplaros

W

e are like a large close-knit family and coming to work always feels like I’m coming home”. This is how Evdoxia, Head Receptionist at the Elysium, enthusiastically speaks of her colleagues and her time at work.

"Staying organized while juggling multiple priorities is a key aspect of my job. Teamwork and open lines of communication ensures that all our tasks get handled well. This is what creates a lasting positive impression for our guests.

What I love most about what I do is knowing I’ve played an important part in keeping the guests happy. There is nothing more rewarding than having your guests thank you profusely for a wonderful stay. That feeling is second to none.

Working at the Elysium since 2008 continues to be an enriching experience. We have a culture where investment in employee development and recognition of a job well done are very common.

This makes you want to strive to better yourself continuously".

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We are like a large close-knit family and coming to work always feels like I'm coming home.

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Latest Addition

AMARA

Elusive, exclusive, eternally yours.

The AMARA is the latest addition to the luxury hotel chain, Stademos Hotels PLC. It joins the 5 Star Elysium in Paphos, and the 4 Star Mediterranean Beach Hotel in Limassol.

By Rachel Chrysostom

A

n ultra-deluxe, five-star sanctuary, aptly located near the ancient Kingdom of Amathus, the AMARA is inherently steeped in the status and prestige of this revered archaeological site. A mere stone’s throw from the bustling, cosmopolitan city of Limassol, the AMARA caters to a wide variety of travelers – from the culturally curious in search of new places to explore, to the scrupulous business traveler in need of comfort and convenience, and from honeymooning couples looking for carefree romance, to fun-loving families in pursuit of a family friendly vacation.

Poised above a 250m bay of golden sand and azure waters, each of the hotel’s 207 rooms boast unobstructed, 180 degree views of the Mediterranean Sea. A host of thoughtfully curated amenities, including a luxurious spa, indulgent restaurants spearheaded by world renowned chefs, a chic rooftop bar, grand ballroom and palatial infinity pool, all contribute to providing guests with a stay filled with luxury and worldliness.

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Design

The AMARA is the brainchild of the worldrenowned architectural firm SB Architects, in an esteemed collaboration with interior design firm, Rockwell Group. Together, they have created a thoroughly modern aesthetic for the AMARA, combining clean lines with monolithic forms, and using locally sourced materials. Sustainability is an important element throughout and the hotel makes use of passive cooling and solar power.

With design elements aimed at stimulating the mind, the meticulously designed hotel is harmoniously integrated with its surroundings, with select idiosyncratic accents – from rough stone, copper, woven fabrics, wood, lace and ceramics – paying homage to Cyprus’ multilayered heritage.

Lobby Area

With sweeping views of the sea, the lobby is an inviting space featuring a sunken lounge flooded with natural light and warmth, and

The Ballroom itself is a spacious, pillar-free function hall featuring a private entrance. It can be divided into three smaller rooms and is thus ideally suited for banquets as well as smaller meetings and receptions, accommodating anywhere from 15 to 400 guests. The hall’s exceptional ambience is further enhanced with the tapestry motif that is impressively woven into the carpet, chairs with woven seatbacks and a woven linen wallcovering set behind metal lattice and bronze mirrored niches.

Accommodation

The AMARA offers a total of 207 artfully appointed accommodation options that range from rooms and suites to one and two bedroom Deluxe suites. Regal and resplendent, the diligently deliberate design of each room is an ode to opulence and of living luxuriously.

Whether guests are visiting for business or for pleasure, alone or with their family in tow, the AMARA accommodation options are abundantly expansive, with room sizes starting from a generous 45 square meters and the one-bedroom Deluxe suite boasts at least 80 square meters of space, within which guests can create their home away from home.

Each room features a lavish sleeping area, complete with a sumptuous King or Queensized bed, as well as a separate seating area, elegant en-suite marble bathroom, hardwood veneer fitted wardrobes, and a private balcony from where the aromas of the hotel’s lush, landscaped gardens may be savored, and the calming view of the Mediterranean enjoyed in quiet contemplation.

inspired by the traditional sunrooms, or ‘iliako’ of old Cypriot homes. Guests can lounge in the circular seating pods, each trellised by geometrically patterned wooden frames, reminiscent of Ancient Greek designs. A large bar sits adjacent to the sitting area, offering a mouthwatering display of the day’s fresh cakes.

In these sumptuous surroundings, guests will find themselves completely at peace in their paradisiacal home away from home.

Ballroom

A dramatic and awe-inspiring spiral, sculptural staircase is the centerpiece of the corridor leading to the AMARA Ballroom. Surrounded by screens embellished with the Greek-inspired key designs that are interwoven throughout the hotel, and set against a backdrop of glass window walls offering sweeping views of the hotel gardens, guests are welcomed into a Ballroom imbued with a vivid grandeur: memorable, magnificent, monumental.

Attention to detail has been afforded to ensure that comfort and convenience are at the forefront of every guest’s stay, from the insulated flooring to ensure minimal noise transmission and atmospheric automated mood lighting, to motorized curtains controlled at the touch of a button, a lighting control system via personal wireless devices, and high quality cooling and heating units.

In these sumptuous surroundings, guests will find themselves completely at peace in their paradisiacal home away from home.

In keeping with the AMARA's ambience, accommodation options have all been inspired by Cyprus’ intricate heritage, and steeped in multilayered cultural influences and architectural nuances expressive of the island’s pastoral past. Natural edge wood and marble vanity stations, woven benches, white shutter walls, blue, watercolor-effect features and sliding glass doors allowing for an abundance of natural light all come together to create a simple, subtle, and sublime sanctuary.

Guests can choose from a selection of interconnecting Deluxe Rooms, as well as spacious Junior Suites, Roof top Duplex Suites with private pools, the AMARA Suite and Sea front Bungalows.

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Latest Addition

Leisure

Among its dining options

From its unique vantage point poised above the azure waters of the Mediterranean, the AMARA is synonymous with leisure and the pursuit of pleasure. Guests can enjoy a plethora of thoughtfully curated facilities and amenities, aimed at satisfying even the most discerning of holidaymakers.

are a Japanese restaurant and an Italian restaurant headed by world renowned

Swimming Pool

celebrity chefs.

Sparkling at the heart of the Hotel is the resplendent infinity swimming pool. Sleek and shimmering, with clean lines and accents of greenery from the surrounding gardens, the division between pool and lounge area dissipates, as guests find themselves in an opulent oasis of sheer repose.

Restaurants and Bars

The philosophy behind the dining options at the AMARA pays homage to the power of the culinary arts in communicating the secrets of culture and community. Fusing delicate flavors with subtle aromas and the freshest of ingredients, AMARA’s highly skilled team of chefs bring this vision to life.

Among its dining options are the Main Dining Room, an All Day Dining Area, and an island-style beach tavern tempting guests with fresh fish and indulgent sharing platters, as well as a Japanese restaurant and an Italian restaurant headed by world renowned celebrity chefs.

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At each establishment, meticulous attention to detail and freedom of expression, a unifying theme throughout the hotel, flourishes. As such, delicacy of lighting and music, and subtlety of colors and textures, come together alongside superb service defined by experience and knowledge, and an unbound freedom of culinary expression and exploration, allowing guests to sample some of the world’s greatest culinary trends.

Spa

Guests seeking a sanctuary to rejuvenate body, mind and soul should look no further than the AMARA Wellness Spa, which will offer a host of body treatments performed by highly experienced wellness professionals, making use of the elite cosmetic line Carita.

Designed to be a holistic haven, the Spa includes a health juice café, open beauty

bar, extensive heat and wet bathing facilities, including Banya treatment, available for en-suite booking. Treatment suites offer stunning views, either of ancient archaeological ruins or the azure coastline, and are available for couples as well as individual bookings. A hair salon, indoor pool with sauna, outdoor serviced pool and extensive fitness facilities complete the wellness ensemble.

A qualified nutritionist and personal trainer are on hand to support every guest’s personalized journey to wellbeing.

Kid’s Club

The AMARA values its young guests as much as their parents, and offers little ones an abundance of entertainment opportunities in the dedicated children’s club, allowing parents a little breather and some time to themselves.

Catering to all ages – from toddlers to teens - younger guests will be guided by fully qualified professionals through a series of both educational and recreational games and activities, creating a multitude of cherished childhood memories and lifelong friendships.

Shopping

For the traveler seeking some shopping therapy while on vacation, the AMARA is home to a unique selection of boutique outlets. From a designer clothing store brimming with inspired pieces, perfect for both day and night, to a lavish jewelry boutique where guests can find treasured gifts for themselves or their loved ones, and a flower shop bursting with fragrant floral creations for special occasions, guests will be able to find everything their heart desires right at their fingertips.

Attention to detail has been afforded to ensure that comfort and convenience are at the forefront of every guest's stay.

Guest Services

With comfort and convenience at their core, the guest services available at the AMARA are the cherry on the cake of a perfect, seamless stay. A selection of services include: • Complimentary Wireless Internet access • 24-hour room service • Laundry and valet services • Foreign exchange • Car rental, and taxi and limousine transfer • Golf bookings • Local excursions and cruises • Luggage weighing service • Bicycle rental • Business Centre access, including copying, interpreter services, and international courier.

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Staff Member

Rising

Sommelier Giannis Papachristoforou Junior Sommelier (Elysium)

by Eleni Hoplaros

J

unior Sommelier Giannis Papachristoforou has been with the Elysium since 2015. “I’ve had an interest in wine since I first entered the hotel industry”, he says. “It was the influence of a Head Sommelier however that really cultivated this interest, and turned it into my professional career”.

"A wine list is a mirror of restaurant’s menu. This is why we source only the finest vintages from across the globe to include on our wine lists, ensuring the highest quality dining experience.

The pairing of food and wine is everything. My philosophy is that you don’t need a big, heavy meal full of tannins or acidity. Sometimes, even a small plate, like a snack dish, can pair just as well.

The greatest part of my job is the time I spend engaging with our guests, particularly when I’m advising them about the wines. The feedback I receive is invaluable.

A normal day as a Junior Sommelier is one full of experimentation and unexpected challenges. But it’s exactly this that makes my job all the more exciting and fun".

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Junior Suites

The suite is furnished with comfortable, casually elegant furniture.

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Junior Suites at the Elysium

Uniting functionality with fashion, the newly renovated Junior Suites are ideal for families looking to experience the grandeur of a five star residence.

By Rachel Chrysostom

T

he recently renovated, multipurpose Junior Suites at the Elysium, comprise of one artfully appointed bedroom, one spacious living room, and an expansive balcony, uniquely positioned to deliver an exclusive holiday experience.

Adorned with maroon and apricot tones against a calming pearl backdrop, the new millwork, and wood paneled ceiling painted in soft grey and dark walnut hues, lend a grandeur to the space, reminiscent of a five star residence.

An inviting double bed, dual desk and vanity station, and smart TV complete the bedroom space, alongside an elegant en-suite bathroom enhanced with a double sink, rustic stone finishes, and French doors with frosted glass panels.

The suite is furnished with comfortable, casually elegant furniture and includes a sectional sofa with a pull-out bed, which sits in the center of the living room area. Here, guests can also enjoy a second smart TV, as well as separate powder room with shower.

Taking full advantage of the island's impressive,

varied landscape, guests can choose from inland, side-sea view or sea view and may also reserve an adjoining room, resulting in a stay in an expansive, two-bedroom suite.

The Elysium Junior Suites offer guests a multitude of amenities, including a fully stocked minibar for late night munchies, as well as a Nespresso machine that is stocked daily. Guests can set their own scene with automated in-room light, including mood lighting, and choose from a comprehensive pillow menu. For ultimate comfort, the marble bathrooms are stocked with Molton Brown toiletries, thick terrycloth bathrobes, slippers and a loofah. For entertainment, guests can browse through a host of satellite channels on the 43� smart TV, or pair it directly to their personal tablets and smartphones.

Among the services on offer are twice-daily housekeeping, airport transfers, babysitting on request, currency exchange, 24-hour room service, multilingual concierge, limousine service, valet parking, laundry, dry cleaning and more.

The Junior Suites provide an ideal space for large families seeking a five star holiday experience, in five star surroundings.

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Wellness Experience

Aquum Health Spa A Day to Indulge Your Body and Mind A visit to the Aquum Health Spa at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel is a revitalising wellness experience, a place where every treatment has been calibrated to take you on a luxurious journey of relaxation, tranquillity and pampering.

by Eleni Hoplaros

A

heavenly sanctuary for those moments when you want to feel utterly amazing.

With a soothing ambience that has been carefully designed to evoke a sense of serenity, this is a space where you can detox from the stresses of everyday life.

In the capable hands of specialist Spa therapists, guests can immerse themselves in a multitude of exclusive restorative therapies, which can be tailored to your needs, boosting your sense of wellbeing and healing.

A skincare product range focused on scientific innovation and unfailing quality.

In its drive for continual excellence, Aquum Health Spa has partnered with world renowned, award-winning skincare product specialists BABOR.

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A heavenly sanctuary for those moments when you want to feel utterly amazing.

Headquartered in Aachen, Germany, BABOR has for over 60 years been unlocking the secrets of the finest natural ingredients, which are then utilised in the development of some of the most luxurious facial and body treatments in the world. Innovative scientific research and stem cell technology are at the core of BABOR’s creations, enabling extraordinary beauty experiences across the globe.

Incorporating the specially formulated BABOR product range into Aquum Health Spa’s treatments and hydrotherapies will offer guests the unique opportunity to experience the therapeutic benefits of revitalising seaweeds, black pearl and green caviar extracts, volcanic mud, exfoliating sea salts and deeply relaxing anti-stress oils.

Visit Aquum Health Spa and embark on an indulgent pampering experience that will see you balance your senses, relax your mind, rejuvenate your body and restore your soul.

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Paphos' Facelift

The New Face of

Paphos

For the past three years, Paphos has been undergoing a major facelift, with a total of seven major projects completed with the aim of transforming the traditional Paphos City Center into a hub of social and cultural development. These new developments have been erected across a one and a half kilometer expanse that includes some of the city’s most important and historical buildings.

We take a look at these seven projects in detail.

By Rachel Chrysostom

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Paphos' Facelift

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egeneration of Traditional Shopping Center in Kennedy Square

The overhaul of the main shopping area in Kennedy Square, right in the heart of Paphos, was one of the city’s most important projects.

Aimed at changing the overall image of the city and kick-starting the local economy, the new Kennedy Square was revitalized, reconstructed and strengthened as Paphos’ central core. The new Shopping Center, which is now a car-free zone, boasts three large squares: Kennedy Square, which serves as the main pillar of the Paphos shopping scene, and the two smaller squares named 19th March Square and Markos Drakou Square. The latter two provide a small respite from the hustle and bustle of the main Kennedy Square, and allow passersby a chance to sit back and relax, watching the world go by while getting a great view of some of the city’s other historical sites.

28th October Square, Kostis Palamas Square, and Dionysios Solomos Square: Connection and Elevation

These three prominent town squares in Paphos underwent redevelopment in order to connect all three with each other, as well as with the public urban area around the Paphos Municipal Gardens. Renovations included demolitions, new drainage systems, landscaping and planting of trees, and irrigation. The two main squares of 28th October and Kostis Palamas are marked with two distinct monuments: the 28th October Column, and the Pavilion of the Sleeping Eros respectively. Both these squares have been rendered car-free zones, while Dionysios Solomos Square limited the flow of traffic, and extended the space into the greenery of the Municipal Gardens.

Redesign of Mouttalos Neighborhood

The Mouttalos neighborhood of Paphos underwent major transformation, with spatial and functional transformation across the entire area. The redevelopment began at Fellahoglou Street, and ended at the neighborhood square.

General design elements included modernized urban infrastructures, shelters, green elements, and the addition of trees. Cars have been redirected away from this main square, creating a spacious walking area with brand new lighting and road signs, for pedestrian enjoyment.

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A half kilometer expanse that includes some of the city's most important and historical buildings.

Upgrade of Markidion Theater

This particular project was of great importance to Paphos, as it aimed at creating a public landmark building, which would upgrade the entire surrounding area. The old building was therefore completely stripped bare of the industrial debris surrounding it, and a new, modernized Theater emerged, bringing together two adjacent streets that connect with the rest of the city’s landmark projects.

Restoration of former ‘Attikon’ Cinema

The former Attikon Cinema, located in the Paphos historical center, was renovated, expanded, and transformed into a space for small scale artistic and educational events, significantly upgrading Paphos’ cultural offering. The restoration included the addition of a basement, brand new facilities and facades, and a link to the adjoining ‘Old Electric’ multipurpose venue. The sparkling new space is now open for all manner of events, lectures and even screenings in the outdoor cinema area, which seats 240 people.

Restoration of Hani Ibrahim

This project was one of great importance for Paphos as the European Capital of Culture 2017, as it wholly reflected the central theme of having an ‘Open Air Factory.’ By restoring this traditional Turkish ‘inn,’ the Paphos Municipality created a bustling bazaar, showcasing the Arts through traditional handiwork and cultural activities.

Hani Ibrahim is the most emblematic part of the history center of Paphos, urging visitors to pass through and see, taste, smell and hear the city’s beating heart. It consists of workshops for artists and craftsmen, an exhibition space, a music area, as well as a reception desk to guide the large numbers of visitors who pass through the space daily, eager to catch a glimpse of tradition at work.

Upgrade of Paphos Municipal Market

The seventh and final project that Paphos undertook this past year was the restoration and upgrade of its Municipal Market. Upgrades include the transformation of the first floor offices into a cafeteria, the creation of a new square west of the building, and the relocation of the Paphos Vegetable Market. The entire Municipal Market has received an aesthetic facelift, as well as a functional upgrade to its surrounding areas, making it a pleasant, enjoyable environment for both visitors and employees.

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Conference

Creative Women conference

This annual event is held each year at the Elysium in Paphos, with the aim of supporting female entrepreneurs from around the world. We caught up with Creative Women Conference Founder, Olga Balakleets, who shared her insights on how this event came to be.

By Rachel Chrysostom

The Creative Women Conference exists to motivate and inspire women from all walks of life.

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W

hat exactly is the Creative Women Conference?

The Creative Women Conference exists to motivate and inspire women from all walks of life and help them lead, start, and drive their businesses. It is designed to provide a networking platform for female leaders and entrepreneurs to think bigger for themselves and their businesses by expanding the creative mindset. It’s an opportunity to make lifelong connections, interact with stimulating masterminds, participate in discussions, work on their big vision, and learn real-world strategies and applications. Our panel of speakers includes female opinion leaders, heads of big businesses and corporations from across the world, all with a wide range of expertise. Many of these women have also been featured in top business publications such as Forbes.

How did you come up with the idea for such an event?

After winning the Russian Business Woman of the Year Award in Cyprus several years ago, I was motivated to pay tribute to the many hardworking and successful business women in Cyprus by creating an event dedicated to their success. My vision was to establish a conference with a difference, where all the speakers and attendees could feel comfortable and inspired to generate new and exciting ideas that would led to new successes. I believe that creativity is the driving force behind any big success, and

I wanted to create an environment that would foster this creativity. We have a rich program featuring panels of distinguished speakers as well as interactive workshops, presentations, extensive networking sessions and social events, including a gala dinner with entertainment by star artists. The Elysium was a natural choice for hosting this event, as it is an exceptional venue with excellent facilities that can cater even the most demanding of events.

What is your opinion on the state of creative female entrepreneurship in Cyprus, and how do you believe we could improve things?

Cyprus is a country with a dynamic and creative workforce. Of course, we can always benefit from external influences and an exchange of ideas. The one thing I found to be lacking is easily accessible information for women who are just starting out in business, and an environment that will boost their confidence and allow them to believe in themselves. This is where the Creative Women Conference comes in. As an international event featuring distinguished speakers and successful women from around the world, I believe it will have a lasting, positive impact on female entrepreneurship in Cyprus, a fact which has been proven following the success of our first two events.

The 3rd Creative Women Conference 2018 will take place on 3-6 May 2018 at the Elysium in Paphos, Cyprus.

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Eccentric Innovator

Elon Musk: Thinker, Creator, Innovator

As of December 2017, Elon Musk’s net worth is $20.2 billion. An engineer and inventor who earned his first billion with the sale of his company PayPal in 2002, the eccentric innovator now manages a multitude of companies and projects, and is one of our generation’s most inspiring success stories.

By Rachel Chrysostom

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Creator in the Making

Growing up in Pretoria, South Africa, Elon Musk was always a thinker. From a young age, his parents would often catch him staring off into the distance while they were speaking to him, leading them to believe that their son might be hard of hearing. In fact, young Elon Musk was merely daydreaming, already designing the big ideas that would one day bring him fame and fortune.

In fact, it was no later than his twelfth birthday when Musk wrote and sold his first big creation: a video game called Blastar. The preteen received $500 when the game’s source code was published in a local South African magazine. After high school, Musk immigrated to Canada, where he attended college, and later transferred to the University of Pennsylvania in the United States. There, he graduated with a degree in Economics, and stayed on for a second bachelor’s degree in Physics.

College Dropout

That same year, Musk co-founded X.com, an online financial services company, using funds from his sale of Zip2. A later acquisition of another similar online financial services firm, and its money transfer service, by X.com, led to the creation of PayPal as it is known today. PayPal’s thousands of users soon multiplied to more than 1 million in a just few short months. However,

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/ Shutterstock.com

After leaving Pennsylvania at age 24, Musk enrolled at Stanford University, set to begin a PhD in Physics. However, his entrepreneurial spirit took over and he left the program after a mere two days in order to take advantage of the Silicon Valley Internet boom. With $28,000 in his pocket, Musk launched his first company, Zip2 Corporation, a web software company designed to help newspapers develop online city guides. Media giants The New York Times and The Chicago Tribune were the first big players to sign on to Musk’s inaugural venture. By 1999, he had sold Zip2 to Compaq for $307 million plus $34 million in stock options.

As a man with a never-ending stream of ideas whirling in his head, he is in

following a host of boardroom troubles for Musk, the company was acquired by eBay for $1.5 billion in stock in 2002. By then, Musk had already moved onto his next big idea.

constant pursuit of trying to make his innovative ideas a reality.

Musk in Space

Hoping to rekindle faded public interest in space exploration, Musk began taking steps towards the creation of his third company, Space Exploration Technologies Corporation, or SpaceX, with the intention of building spacecraft for commercial spacecraft. His company’s mission, according to Musk, was to create “a true space-faring civilization”. By 2008, SpaceX was well established, working alongside NASA to handle cargo transport for the Inte rnational Space Station, in a move to replace NASA’s own space shuttle missions.

SpaceX and Elon Musk made history in 2012, when the company launched its Falcon 9 rocket into space with an unmanned capsule, sending 1,000 pounds of supplies to astronauts stationed at the International Space Station. The company has since continued to make great strides in space exploration. Its most recent breakthrough was in March 2017, with the successful test flight and landing of a Falcon 9 rocket made from reusable parts, opening the doors for more affordable space travel. Ever the dreamer, Elon Musk hopes to eventually create an extraterrestrial settlement on Mars. He outlined his plans for making humans a “multiplanetary species” in a special keynote at the International Aeronautical Congress in September 2017.

Did You Know?

The world’s first electric car

With his idealism and drive unwavering, Musk threw his support behind another major venture, Tesla Motors Inc, a company dedicated to producing affordable, mass market electric cars as well as battery products and solar roofs. Today, Musk is Tesla’s CEO and Product Architect, overseeing all product development, engineering, and design of the company’s entire product range.

Since the company’s inception in 2003, Tesla’s mission has been to accelerate the transition to a sustainable energy future. Its first product, the Tesla Roadster sports car debuted in 2008, followed by the Model S Sedan, introduced in 2012, and the Model X SUV, which launched in 2015. The Roadster, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, and traveling for nearly 250 miles between charges of its lithium ion battery, sold 2,500 vehicles in 31 countries upon its launch.

Tesla made further headlines in November 2017, with the unveiling of the new Tesla Semi and Roadster. The semi-truck, which is set to enter production in 2019, boasts 500 miles of range as well as a battery and motors built to last 1 million miles.

Solar Energy, AI, and more.

In his continuing efforts to promote and advance sustainable energy and products for a wider consumer base, Musk combined Tesla Motors Inc. with solar energy company SolarCity Corp, with the aim of creating fully integrated residential, commercial and grid-scale products that improve the way that energy is generated, stored and consumed.

Musk’s interests, however, don’t stop there. As a man with a never-ending stream of ideas whirling in his head, he is in constant pursuit of trying to make his innovative ideas a reality. One such innovation he has sought to encourage is the concept of ‘Hyperloop,’ an invention that would foster commuting between major cities, powered by renewable energy while severely cutting travel time. Musk is also deeply interested in Artificial Intelligence, becoming co-chair of the non-profit OpenAI, with the stated mission of advancing digital intelligence to benefit humanity.

• At age 46 today, Musk has an estimated net worth of $20.1 billion, making him the 80th richest person in the world • Born in South Africa in 1971, Musk became a U.S. citizen in 2002 • In April 2017, Musk’s Tesla Motors surpassed General Motors to become the most valuable U.S. car maker • Elon Musk shares the same opinion of AI as tech leaders and scientists Bill Gates and Stephen Hawking, who believe that AI is humanity’s biggest existential threat. They fear that AI could become more powerful than people, possibly causing human extinction.

• His secret to success? Cleanliness. Musk swears by waking up every day and taking a shower.

• He’s the real life Tony Stark. In fact, when the film Iron Man was first released, director Jon Favreau explained that Musk had inspired actor Robert Downey Jr.’s interpretation of the character. Musk went on to have a cameo role in Iron Man 2.

• Elon Musk has been married twice. He wed his first wife, Justine Wilson in 2000, and had five sons with her. After a tumultuous divorce, he met actress Talulah Riley, and the couple married in 2010. Their relationship ultimately ended in divorce in 2016.

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First Class Travel

5 of the Best First-Class Airline Cabins in the world First-class flying at its absolute finest.

The luxurious world of first class air travel today has been elevated to unprecedented levels of extravagance. It’s become so much more than just spacious legroom, a hot towel or a glass of champagne once seated. Rather, it’s an exclusive, revolutionised, home away from home experience - in the sky.

By Eleni Hoplaros

E

Etihad Airways

tihad now offers a selection of firstclass travel options that epitomise style and class.

Their first class First Apartment offers an intimate private space with a closing door, a fully flat spacious bed, a wide armchair, and the finest leather interior finishes. With access to a luxurious bathroom and shower as well, firstclass flying with Etihad has never been better.

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Emirates Airlines

First-class travel with Emirates comfort and pampering.

embodies

An elegant Private Suite with sliding doors, contemporary décor, ambient lighting and private cinema all make for a distinctively unique flying experience. You can also enjoy skincare essentials like the airline’s organic seaweed skincare range by the award-winning brand VOYA, and an exclusive Bulgari amenity kit, to leave you feeling pampered during your flight.

First class air travel is an exclusive, revolutionised, home away from home experience in the sky.

Qatar Airways

Elegance and refinement are what exemplify Qatar’s first-class accommodation.

It’s all about deluxe Frette linens, Bric’s amenity kits, signature dishes created by world-renowned chefs, and a private first-class space. Your personal area can also be transformed into an optimal work space with on-board Wi-Fi access, laptop power and USB plug.

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First Class Travel

One can't help but be impressed by the level of soothing comfort that is Lufthansa’s first-class compartments.

Lufthansa Airlines

One can’t help but be impressed by the level of soothing comfort that is Lufthansa’s first-class compartments.

With stylish caramel interiors, ergonomic seats, a culinary array of deliciously crafted meals, a two-metre long bed with a temperature regulating duvet, and First Class washrooms and toiletries, it’s no surprise that every moment on-board is a world-class experience.

Air France

Air France’s first-class La Première cabin option is quite magnificent.

The space emanates sophistication with its eclectic mix of soft leather, suede, textile fabrics and understated wood and metallic finishes.

The La Première suite also comes with an upright seat that transforms into a 2 metre long bed with a memory foam mattress and the cosiest of bedding, a large table, and a comfortable ottoman for guests to sit on.

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Staff Member

Your Personal

Trainer Anninos Yiannakou Fitness Instructor (Elysium)

By Eleni Hoplaros

The secret to motivating people to exercise regularly is rapport and communication.

I

love exercise and how it allows me to push my body to its limits�, says Anninos Yiannakou, Fitness Instructor at the Elysium.

Anninos has been with the Elysium since 2014.

"The most important part of my job has been keeping up to date with the latest on fitness and nutrition, and to be able to continuously motivate and inspire my clients. This requires passion, leadership, energy and commitment - the key traits of an effective fitness instructor.

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My top get-healthy tip I would give a client is to believe in yourself. Getting started on a healthy journey and staying engaged is dependent on a positive attitude and a can-do mindset.

The secret to motivating people to exercise regularly is rapport and communication.

Training is not just about exercise, it’s about the

relationship between the trainer and the client, and how effective you are in communicating.

Changing up your work-out routine is vital to achieving your fitness goals. It helps to keep you focused and ensures that you don’t stay concentrated on specific muscle groups, while potentially neglecting others".

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Hot Spot

PlusSea Lifestyle Bar: Life is better at the Beach

In the coastal town of Limassol, seaside establishments are in abundance. One, however, stands out from the rest. PlusSea is more than just a bar. Rather, for locals and tourists alike, it has become lifestyle, eponymous with beachside living at its finest.

By Rachel Chrysostom

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PlusConcept

PlusSea embodies ultimate relaxation and tranquility.

PlusSea Lifestyle Bar opened its doors on the shores of Limassol in 2008. A meticulously designed venue where wood and bamboo elements prevail, PlusSea makes the most of its Mediterranean setting. Hand-crafted wooden furniture, a thatched roof for keeping it cool when temperatures soar, and palisade vertical motion fans add to the airy interior ambience, while cozy sofas and sunbeds on the sand allow for an intimate experience of Cyprus’ spectacular sunsets and starlit skies.

Located just on the outskirts of Limassol, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, PlusSea embodies ultimate relaxation and tranquility.

The concept is simple: escape the mundane of the everyday and indulge in real island living with a delicious meal, an iced cocktail, and the sound of the waves lapping at your feet.

PlusFood

The menu at PlusSea is extensive and wellthought out. Aimed at awakening guests’ senses, the PlusSea chefs have carefully selected fresh ingredients to create zestful combinations of sumptuous appetizers, hearty pasta dishes, and meat and fish combinations, including fresh catch of the day, all served daily. Seafood lovers will have trouble choosing among salmon, mussels, swordfish, seabass, and more, while avid meat eaters can dig in to a selection of Black Angus steaks grilled to perfection. Whether you want to tuck into a full meal or grab a snack to nibble on while you lounge on the sand, PlusSea has you covered.

PlusDrinks

PlusSea boasts a select wine list that is sure to please the most discerning of wine connoisseurs. From high-end champagnes to fun bubblies, delectable Cypriot wines to international labels, diners are spoilt for choice when it comes to accompanying their meal.

And for when the sun starts to set and the beat drops, the expert team of PlusSea’s mixologists are ready to whip up an array of deliciously cooling, exotic cocktails. Choose from classics such as the Mojito or Pina Colada, or try something with an exotic twist, such as the Matador, which consists of a sweet and sour mix of Havana and Aperol shaken with lemon juice and beautifully served in a martini glass with sprinkles of raspberries for taste. For those who can’t decide between a coffee or a cocktail, the PlusSea bar team offers the best of both worlds in the form of the milkshake-style Irish Frappe flavored with chocolate Baileys and Kahlua shaken with espresso, or the Espresso Martini – a refined and delicious version of the Red Bull and vodka combo.

PlusEvents

PlusSea welcomes private functions and events, and boasts a highly experienced team of professionals who will ensure that your special day goes off without a hitch. The venue can hold up to 100 guests for a private event, and will happily accommodate guests for a party, conference, or celebration of any kind. Treat your guests to sweeping views of the Mediterranean, a beautiful sunset, delicious food and drinks and leave the rest to us.

Info: PlusSea Lifestyle Bar is located on 95 Amathus Avenue in Limassol T.: +357 2563 4995 Email: info.limassol@plussea.com

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Natural Life

Blue Rock Thrush

birds

of a Feather Millions of birds use Cyprus as a stopover during their spring and autumn migration, and hundreds more are species endemic to our shores. Find out how and where to catch sight of the Cyprus Warbler, the Purple Heron, and many other feathered beauties.

By Rachel Chrysostom

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Where to go

Paphos

T

Asprokremmos Dam: his man-made reservoir features seasonal pools in the river just below the dam, known to bird watchers as Aspro Pools. The area has been declared a Special Protection Area for Birds, forming part of the pan-European NATURA 2000 network.

Species highlights include the long-legged buzzard, Bonelli’s Eagle, Cyprus Warbler, European Roller, Little Owl, Blue Rock Thrush, and Peregrine Falcon.

Tip: Seek out the Finsch’s Wheatear in the winter, and in summer, try to catch sight of the visiting Black-headed Bunting.

Paphos Headland:

This grassy, wooded area is a spring migration hotspot, as well as an archaeological site. Make sure to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for best possible sightings. Species highlights include the Ruppell’s Warbler and Subalpine Warbler darting in and out among the trees and bushes, and wader birds on the rocks along the coast, such as the Greater Sand Plovers and Golden Plovers.

Lady’s Mile

The track along the Akrotiri Salt Lake leads to Lady’s Mile, home to several marshy pools.

During migration, these pools are full of life, with wader birds using them as a cooling stopoff on their journey.

Species highlights include the Pied Flycatcher, Collared Flycatcher, Ruff, Black-winged Stilt, Avocet, and Greater Sand Plover.

Tip: The best way to reach Lady’s Mile is to drive across the lake itself on one of the tracks.

Although usually firm enough for vehicles, great care should be taken in wet conditions.

Akrotiri Marsh (Fasouri Reedbeds)

The list of birds recorded on Cyprus shores currently totals nearly 400 species.

Cyprus Warbler

The Akrotiri Marsh is a unique, natural wetland in Cyprus, covering an area of 150 hectares.

The marsh is a Ramsar site (a wetland site designated of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands), an Important Bird Area (IBA), and a Special Protection Area (SPA). Due to an overexpansion of reeds and consequent loss of bird and plant diversity, an ecosystem-based conservation project (in combination with public engagement) began in April 2015 to restore the area and its biodiversity.

Species highlights include the Ferruginous Duck, Spur-winged Lapwing, Black-Winged Stilt, Black Francolin, Little Bittern, Reed Warbler, and Black-headed Yellow Wagtail.

Bonelli's Eagle

Tip: If you’re lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of ducks, herons, egrets, and gulls passing through during migration.

Akamas Peninsula

This rugged, rocky coastline with scrub vegetation surrounded by thick pine forests is a popular passage for offshore water birds.

Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for visiting. Species highlights include the European Roller, Black-headed bunting, Cretzschmar’s Bunting, Masked Shrike, Glossy Ibis, Longlegged Buzzard, and Bonelli’s Eagle.

Tip: The coastal track from the Baths of Aphrodite towards Cape Arnaouti is the best place for birdwatching, however the terrain can be rough, and in hot weather it may become unbearable. It is advisable to always have a trekking buddy with you, and ample supplies of water.

Greater Flamingo

Limassol Akrotiri Salt Lake

This seasonal wetland is a migration hotspot for raptors. Covering an area of approximately 9km2, it holds most of its water in the winter, when it is home to thousands of Greater Flamingos, wildfowl, and gull.

Species highlights include the Greater Flamingo, Honey Buzzard, Red-footed Falcon, Demoisselle Crane, Little Egret, Ferruginous Duck, and Kentish Plover.

Tip: Dawn or dusk is the best time for bird viewing, and – as always – great care must be taken not to disturb the birds.

Tip: Further to being one of the island’s most popular birdwatching sites, Akrotiri Marsh is characterised and revered for its diversity of flora and fauna. Visitors can glimpse the Mediterranean Killifish, as well as rare and threatened plant species.

Endemic Birds Of Cyprus Cyprus is home to two species of birds that breed only on the island and nowhere else in the world. These unique species are the Cyprus Warbler (Sylvia melanothorax) and the Cyprus Wheater (Oenanthe cypriaca).

Cyprus is also home to four additional species, which scientists call ‘subspecies.’ This means that though these birds can also be found in other regions, the ones residing in Cyprus are significantly distinctive from those found in mainland Europe. They include the Cyprus Coal Tit (Parus ater Cypriotes), Cyprus Jay (Garrulus Glandiarius glaszneri), Cyprus Scops Owl (Otus scops cyprius), and the Cyprus Short-toed Treecreeper (Certhia brachydactyla dorotheae).

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Cypriot Dialect

Cypriot Dialect: A Language of Our Own

The official languages of Cyprus, according to its constitution, are Greek and Turkish. However, the prevalence of the Cypriot dialect has practically made it a language unto itself. We examine its origins, and look at some of the most popular Cypriot words and phrases used by locals across the island.

By Rachel Chrysostom 74

Blue ceramic jugs on a background of old stone wall in village, Cyprus.

By Rachel Chrysostom

If you want to impress your group of Cypriot friends, we’ve rounded up some of the most common words and expressions, as well as their explanations, for you to toss into your next conversation: Agapó Se – I love you

the end of a conversation or when someone is

Áte re! – Come on

departing.

Aréskei mou – I like it

Apóshi moúgia mougiázete – Practically

Kopiáste – Welcome / Come on in

impossible to translate literally, this expression is

Índa óra éni? – What time is it?

used to tell someone that they are taking things

Námbou re pethkiá? – What’s up guys?

too personally.

Elishiopínasa – I’m starving

Síkki me – A phrase used to imply ‘whatever,

Áte na doúme – Come on, get on with it

let’s do it’

Ínta hapárka – What’s new?

Eksíkko sou – It’s not worth it

Epofkártika – I’m worn-out

To poullín epétase – Literally translated to ‘the

Én to pistéfko – I can’t believe it

bird has flown,’ this expression means ‘It’s too

The Cypriot dialect has lasted longer than all other Greek dialects, and this may have to do with Cyprus’ precise location in the world. The island’s geographic isolation from the rest of Greece, as well as the years of international influence from centuries of foreign rule, have helped foster a dialect that, though well-rooted in Greek influences, is rich, colorful, and most importantly, enduring. In fact, the origins of the Cypriot dialect can be traced back to 1400BC, a period when Greek settlers colonized the island. Since then, the spoken Cypriot vernacular is used by all age groups and social classes, with a history that is interwoven into the history of the island itself.

Én sovaromilás – You can’t be serious

late.’

Máshalla sou – Good for you

Éneshi láthos! – It’s great!

Én me kófti – I don’t care

Tziállo – More

Mén me souksoulás – Don’t bother me

Pollá kalá – Very well

Íse pourékka – You’re a sweetheart (or, more

Ékama se finidjiá – A phrase that literally

specifically, a sweet cheese-filled pastry)

translates to ‘I turned you into a palm tree,’ it

Eíva! – Cheers!

actually means ‘I have praised you.’

Olóisha – Straight away (often used by people

Éppese to arfáli mou – When they are very

sarcastically when asked to do something they

hungry, Cypriots use this phrase that literally

really don’t want to do.)

means ‘my bellybutton has dropped.’

Én psadji – It’s freezing

Nákkon – A little bit

A medley of influences

Én lállaros – It’s boiling hot

Chóftes – Nonsense

Katíshi sou – You’re in trouble!

Men máshese! – You’re kidding me!

Mána mou re – How cute

Épias me sto maittáppi – You’re mocking me

Mén salavatás – Don’t make a fuss

Námbou shi – What’s up?

Pou sou néfko pou páeis – A phrase that

Íse tchiákkos – You’re a cool dude

literally translates to ‘I point you elsewhere, you

Éhasa ton ppoúsoula mou – I lost my mind

go elsewhere,’ which is used when a person

Ói ápparo – One of the most commonly used

understands something completely different

Cypriot expression might confuse people who

than what is being said.

think it means ‘no horse,’ it’s actually used to

Kátse tin máppa hamé – A phrase that literally

say ‘No way’ or ‘Yeah right.’

translates to ‘Sit the ball down,’ which is used to

Pézo pelló – I’m avoiding it

tell someone to get off their high horse.

Ói laomó – Are you serious?

Re koumbáre – Hey man!

Hánei i pattíha sou – Literally translated to ‘your

Koúlloumakka – All together (one big mess)

watermelon is losing,’ this expression is used to

Láou láou – Slow down / go slowly

tell someone that they’ve lost their mind.

Píene sto kaló – Literally translated to ‘Go to

Kóri – Girl. A term of endearment used among

the good,’ this is a well-wishing phrase used at

groups of girl friends.

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dialect through time

Every conquering army that passed through Cyprus up until its independence in 1960 has left traces of their language on the Cypriot dialect.

Most prevalent are the Frankish and Venetian influences, followed by Latin, largely due to Latin being the official language during the first five centuries of the Byzantine period. Finally, the Ottoman Empire also left its effects on Cypriots’ everyday vernacular, as did English, creating what is today a rich tapestry of words, accents, pronunciations and intonations that often leave the average Greek speaker utterly baffled.

Start up a conversation

The Cypriot dialect is a truly extraordinary phenomenon. The average Cypriot is diglossic – fluent in both Cypriot vernacular and Modern Greek, and can smoothly switch between the two. However, with no written history of the Greek dialect anywhere, and Modern Greek being the approved language taught in schools, it is a testament to the Cypriot dialect’s endurance that it is still used across Cyprus, and continues to grow, flourish and develop as new words are discovered and added to daily use.

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Gastronomy

René & Maxime Meilleur

The Father & Son Duo Making Food History at the Savoy René and Maxime Meilleur are a father and son partnership whose unique bond and shared love for food is creating a new art of cooking in the heart of the Alps. Together, René and Maxime have transformed their family restaurant, the La Bouitte, into a sought after gastronomic destination, a place where their mastery and passion for authentic Savoyard cuisine pays significant culinary homage to the region.

By Eleni Hoplaros

A

little house in the Savoy

La Bouitte (“little house” in Savoy dialect) is the gourmet creation of René and his wife Marie-Louise Meilleur.

Established in 1976 in the Vanoise mountain range at the entrance of Les 3 Vallées, the restaurant quickly became known for its delicious local dishes and fondues. It was only after a remarkable dinner at a Paul Bocuse eatery in 1981 however, partnered with their passion for gastronomy, which inspired René and MarieLouise to move towards “haute” cuisine.

Maxime joins the La Bouitte kitchen

1996 saw Maxime join his father in the La Bouitte kitchen, bringing with him new ideas and an energy drawn from his athletic past.

The restaurant has since gone from strength to strength, eventually evolving into a chalet, and then five star hotel in 2017.

3 Michelin Stars

René and Maxime have certainly made French gastronomic history, being the first and only example of a father and son to have together obtained 1, then 2 and finally 3 Stars in the Michelin guide. They were also awarded the title of “Chefs of the Year” in 2015, another notable distinction.

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From Maxime Meilleur's visit at Elysium.

We were fortunate to have Maxime take some time out from the kitchen and chat to us about the evolution of his career from athlete to selftaught Chef, and how the synergy between him and his father has made La Bouitte the amazing success it is today.

Who has been your biggest influence?

Without a doubt, my father, a man with incredible insights who has also taken some insane risks.

Thanks to his hard work, his humanism and his talents, he turned a potato field into one of the most endearing destinations on the planet.

"Without a doubt, my father, a man with incredible insights who has also taken some insane risks".

How would you describe the dynamic between you and your father in the La Bouitte kitchen? How do you think this has contributed to being awarded not 1 but 3 Michelin stars as a duo?

The first Michelin star is clearly due to the work of my father. He is an incredibly creative poet, with astounding intuition! His foremost quality is his love of others, and the act of sharing.

He made La Bouitte a house of hearts – and you can sense this in the dishes. The second star is the result of the rigor, the attention to detail and competitive spirit that I brought with me from my sporting past. The third star, which has seen us become a global destination, is the symbiosis and complementarity of our skills. Our thoughts and our actions are fused, they complement each other naturally. There is a real benevolence between us, and also a lot of support. It’s a father and son love – unconditional and completely trusting.

Would you consider earning the title of ‘Chefs of the Year’ in 2015 a particularly poignant career highlight?

Neither my father nor I have ever learned cooking in a school or from another chef. We are self-taught. We imagined our house in our own way. We have created a new way of life.

In saying that, the title of ‘Chefs of the Year’ in

2015 gives us a great sense of pride. We have been recognized by our peers after all, by the experts in our profession.

Could you walk us through the process of how you create your infamous food creations?

We first choose a product that we want to magnify, to which we want to give a new dimension. We work on textures, on taste, and on the method of cooking. Gradually, with continuous testing, we will remove what is superfluous. We will add zest, density and depth to the dish, without losing elegance. We always seek harmony and balance.

The “Escalope of duck foie gras, fresh corn galette, honey from St Marcel, reduced oldfashioned vinegar” is considered one of La Bouitte’s most emblematic dishes? Why do you think this is?

This emblematic dish of La Bouitte was created in 1984 and is part of the identity of the House.

It is the only dish to have withstood the test of time since La Bouitte opened, holding on to its popularity all through the years, as we were awarded the 3 Michelin stars in 2003, 2008 and 2015, respectively. In the last two decades, the recipe has developed in precision, delicacy and purity. The ingredients of which this dish is comprised are also of the finest quality, namely Saint Sever duck foie gras from the Landes, fresh corn, 16-year-old balsamic vinegar, and Saint Marcel honey designed for La Bouitte by a local beekeeper (Silvestre Kleber).

Four ingredients you can’t live without?

Butter, milk, fish from our lakes in Savoy (trout, féra, char), and polenta.

What do you consider the most underrated food?

Cereals – they can be worked in so many different ways.

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Staff Members

The two sisters from Australia have been working at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel for eight and eighteen years.

On loving your job

A Sister act!

Sisters Elena Papaconstantinou and Suzanna Nicodemou talk to us about relocating to Cyprus from Australia, working side by side at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel in Limassol, and the mutual affection they share with their hotel guests.

By Rachel Chrysostom 78

smile goes a long way

Nobody knows the worth of a smile more than Elena and Suzanna. The two sisters from Australia have been working at the Mediterranean Beach Hotel for eight and eighteen years respectively, and their love for their jobs as well as for the hotel guests radiates from their beaming smiles to their cheerful, friendly chitchat.

On the importance of positive energy Suzanna: I love making sure people are enjoying themselves. The hotel guests are my number one priority, and I do everything I can to make sure all guests leave with a smile on their face. If everyone around me is happy, then I’m happy.

Elena: A positive attitude can make all the difference in a person’s day. I always try to pass on my positive energy to our guests, and make sure they are comfortable and well-taken care of throughout their stay. My sister and I are happy people, it’s just who we are, and when this energy is genuine, it rubs off on other people too.

Suzanna: Dealing with people has always been my strongest suit, and I love seeing new faces and greeting old friends at my job here. Guests will come back to the Mediterranean Beach Hotel time and time again, asking for me, or they’ll send regards through their friends, and it makes me feel good to know that I’ve made a connection with people, or touched them in some way. I feel sad when guests I’ve connected with leave, I miss them!

Elena: Every day feels like my first day at work.

Seeing happy, smiling faces around me makes me feel rejuvenated and it energizes me! Knowing that I’ve made a connection with someone, that I’ve made their day a little bit better; that makes me happy.

On working with your sister Suzanna: It’s fun to work together. Everybody at the hotel knows by now that Suzanna’s upstairs, and Elena downstairs, and guests pass along messages to me through Elena, or vice versa. We help each other out, and together we help out everybody, as much as we can.

Elena: We have a bit of a laugh sometimes with new guests who don’t know us yet, because they will come and say to me or Suzanna ‘There’s someone upstairs who looks and sounds just like you!’

You can find Elena every morning and lunchtime at the main Aquaria restaurant, where she is a waitress, while Suzanna is a bartender at the Clouds bar in the main lobby, where she’s been since 2001.

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A true

fighter The German Oncology Center opens in Limassol.

Dr. Nikos Zamboglou brings the fight against cancer to Cyprus.

By Eleni Hoplaros

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r. Nikos Zamboglou is a formidable figure in the field of radiation oncology. With over 40 years in the medical profession, Dr. Zamboglou has spent the majority of that time in cancer research, and also in the development of diagnostic tools for the successful treatment of various cancers.

He is largely responsible for the pioneering design of a new form of Brachytherapy which uses “catheter type” needles that are placed very close to the tumour, hitting it with a

high dose of radiation, but simultaneously minimising radiation exposure to the healthy tissue surrounding the area.

In 2017, Dr. Zamboglou opened the pioneering German Oncology Center, the first of its kind to be located in Limassol, Cyprus.

We wanted to find out more about Dr. Zamboglou’s life story, his journey which eventually led to the opening of the Center here, and the role that this facility will play in the fight against cancer.

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Dr. Zamboglou has also been awarded the esteemed Alfred Breit Prize, the highest distinction given to a doctor by the German Society of Radiation Oncology.

We met with Dr. Zamboglou and this is what he shared with us.

Humble beginnings

Dr. Zamboglou is originally from the city of Limassol. He grew up in a small community which afforded him a wonderful childhood, memorable for its easy pace and great outdoor living and playing. In particular, he remembers that “everyone knew everyone” and that “school friends became lifelong friends, and the city became a part of your very fabric”.

From Cyprus to Germany

At the age of 17, Dr. Zamboglou moved to Germany to begin his university studies. “I was one of the first Cypriots at that time to move somewhere that wasn’t England or the United States, the two countries that most Cypriots would venture to”, he says. Dr. Zamboglou was accepted into Aachen University on scholarship and it was there where he completed his first degree in Modern Physics.

He then continued his academic journey, moving into the fields of Radiophysics and Radiation Biology, after which he studied Medicine. It seems an almost natural transition then when Dr. Zamboglou moved into Radiation Oncology, an area of medicine in which he specialised, and one for which he is globally renowned due to his contributions to the field.

Accolades

We asked Dr. Zamboglou what he considered to be some of the most memorable distinctions in his career. “Those that stand out”, he says, “are the notable positions that I have been

appointed to, that is, President of the German Society of Radiation Oncology, Member of the Athens Academy of Science, Hon. Member of the Austrian Society of Radiation Oncology, and being granted an Hon. Doctorate from the Cyprus University of Technology”.

Dr. Zamboglou has also been awarded the esteemed Alfred Breit Prize, the highest distinction given to a doctor by the German Society of Radiation Oncology.

A passion for science

It’s very clear that Dr. Zamboglou has an incredible passion and zest for his chosen profession. “What I love about this field”, he says, “is the fact that science is ongoing, it’s constantly changing, and we are making new discoveries and advancements everyday”.

“What drives me however is not just the scientific progress. It is also the success of the treatments on the patients – seeing actual results – and knowing that you have played a major part in that – it leaves you with a feeling that’s incomparable”.

Returning to Cyprus

“Coming back to this island was always my goal”, says Dr. Zamboglou. “The beauty, the culture, the people – there’s nothing quite like it. Germany gave me a wonderful life, it was my home away from home. But I held onto my Cypriot roots tightly, creating a small community of Greek and Cypriot friends and colleagues around me, so Cyprus never felt too far away.”

Motivation for establishing the German Oncology Center in Limassol

“I always knew that there was a need for a cancer treatment facility in this city”, notes Dr. Zamboglou, “to serve not only the needs of those residing in Limassol, but also those from Paphos and the surrounds”.

Through his center, Dr. Zamboglou wants to provide the best possible care to all patients in need, in a location closer to their home. “I don’t want them to have to drive all the way to Nicosia, it’s far, and the journey too exhausting when you’re undergoing treatment”.

Achieving the Center’s objectives

“There is much that I want this Center to achieve, at the forefront being to help everyone get the care they need to fight this illness”, says Dr. Zamboglou passionately.

"I want to continue offering state-of-the-art equipment, and continually grow our team of medical doctors, cancer specialists in their own right with critical experience to help others".

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Sur La Table

Sur La Table, at Ristorante Bacco.

Sur La Table You’ll want front row seats to this show, as dessert takes center stage.

By Rachel Chrysostom

A

meal at any of the Elysium's fine dining establishments is an experience in itself. But when accompanied by our signature ‘Sur La Table,’ things get a whole lot more fun. The phrase ‘Sur La Table’ is French for ‘On The Table.’ At Ristorante Bacco, we pride ourselves on our show stopping tableside presentations of dessert, which provide a feast for our diners’ eyes as well as their taste buds.

Tableside service harks back to a more genteel time, when skilled chefs would display their prowess by whipping up dishes right before diners’ eyes. Part culinary arts, part showmanship, guests delight in the pouring, stirring, shaking, cracking, and, of course, lighting food on fire right next the very table they are eating.

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Ristorante Bacco offers guests a complete dining experience: a delicious meal in a warm and intimate setting, authentic Italian cuisine, and the finest of service and care. Simply choose your dessert from the extensive menu list, and our Pastry Chef will make his way to the table to prepare your choice ‘sur la table.’

Among the options for Dessert Sur La Table are: Tonka Bean Chocolate Cake, Mango Slice, Frozen Berries with White Chocolate Soup, Nougatine Parfait, Tartuffo, Lemon Panna Cotta, Lemon Curd, Strawberry Basket, and Chocolate Truffle.

Unveil the mystery of how your dish is made, and the care that goes into it, and learn a few tricks along the way with the unique Dessert Sur La Table.

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Last Page

Memories of a Summer Day Renowned Greek artist Achilleas Droungas takes visitors on a journey through an island summer day, with five stunning paintings prominently displayed in the lobby of the Elysium.

By Rachel Chrysostom

T

he first thing that catches one’s eye when gazing upon Achilleas Droungas’ hyper realistic paintings is the amount of intricate detail that makes every object appear to leap out from the canvas. Such is the case with his new series, ‘Memories of a Summer Day.’ The series of five oil on canvas works is called thus for its depiction of every stage of a holidaymaker’s day, starting at sunrise, followed by morning, afternoon, sunset, and ending with a moonlit night, all with a view of the same, unchanging horizon of the Mediterranean Sea. Droungas’ paintings are characterized by their minimalism and subdued, restrained movement, yet at the same time appear to be bursting with life.

He attributes this to the way he captures the movement of light, which he also credits as his main source of inspiration.

“I was always inspired by the fierce brightness of art found in Greece, Cyprus, and other Mediterranean countries. The brilliance of the sunlight we experience in Greece, and even more so in Cyprus, permeates peoples’ psyche, and this is reflected in the art we produce.”

‘Memories of a Summer Day,’ with its brilliant hues, pops against the subtle beige tones of the Elysium lobby. With each painting a snapshot, guests will be reminded of their own cherished memories of island holidays.

Achilleas Droungas was born in 1940 in Piraeus. He studied printmaking and stage scenography at the Athens School of Fine Arts. He continued his studies in graphic design at the Slade School of Fine Art, University College London, and followed this up with a lithography course at the Tamarind Institute at the University of New Mexico. He has presented many solo exhibitions in Greece and abroad and participated in numerous group exhibitions and international printmaking festivals in Greece, Europe and the U.S.A. In 2009, a retrospective exhibition of 140 of his painting and printmaking works was displayed at the Athens National Art Gallery.

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