European Football in Limassol

Last night, Pete and I headed over to the impressive Alphamega Stadium in Kolossi to catch the Europa Conference League tie between Aris Limassol and Puskás Akadémia of Hungary. It was a warm summer evening, perfect for some European football under the lights.

The first half belonged to Aris. With sharp movement and confident passing, the home side looked well in control and raced to a deserved 2–0 lead. The crowd was buzzing, and there was a real sense that more goals could follow.

But football has a way of flipping the script.

In the second half, Aris seemed to lose their rhythm. Whether it was nerves or complacency, Puskás Akadémia found their footing and clawed their way back into the game with two goals that silenced the home support. Just when it looked like the tie might end all square, Aris managed to sneak in a late winner, restoring a narrow advantage to take into the second leg.

Aside from the action on the pitch, there was a great atmosphere in the stands. A few locals near us were celebrating a birthday and even had a little cake party right there in the stadium. In true Cypriot fashion, they offered Pete and me a slice—football, good company, and a bit of birthday cake... what more could you ask for?

A night of goals, drama, and a sweet surprise—European football in Cyprus never disappoints.

Forest Fires

A tragic few days unfolded on the island as wildfires broke out on July 23rd, just north of Limassol in southern Cyprus. Fueled by extreme heat—soaring to 43–44 °C—and strong, gusting winds, the fires quickly spread across mountainous terrain.

At least four to a dozen villages, including Agia Varvara, Malia, and Lofou, were evacuated as flames closed in. The images were truly harrowing—walls of fire racing through dry hillsides, driven relentlessly by the wind toward homes and communities.

Here in Pissouri, the air has been thick with smoke, and the acrid smell of burning vegetation has lingered for days.

As I write this, the fires remain out of control, and with stronger afternoon winds forecast, the situation could sadly worsen. Our thoughts are with those affected.

Sailing to the Blue Lagoon

The following day, we made our way to Latchi Harbour, a charming little port on the north-west coast of Cyprus. There, we boarded the Nafsika II, a lovely boat that offers short cruises along the stunning coastline of the Akamas Peninsula.

As we set off from Latchi, the sea was calm, the sun was shining, and the atmosphere on board was friendly and relaxed. The highlight of the trip was arriving at the Blue Lagoon, a breathtaking spot known for its incredibly clear, turquoise water. It was absolutely perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating in the gentle waves.

The boat was well-equipped, with a slide into the water, easy access back on board, and helpful crew who made the experience smooth and enjoyable. It really was a memorable outing — fun, and surrounded by natural beauty.

The only negative is the number of tourist boats that are now moored in the bay. It has grown to the point to where this beautiful bay is now overcrowded. 

A weekend in Latchi

On a humid Friday morning, we set off from Pissouri and drove north to the coastal town of Latchi. The drive took about an hour. Our base for the well-deserved weekend break was the small, family-run Souli Hotel.

Our first stop was the hotel’s restaurant, which sits just meters from the sea. We enjoyed a fresh salad, washed down with a cold glass of white wine.

We then spent the afternoon relaxing by the pool. In the evening we made our way down to the marina and sat watching the tourist boats returning to port. We the went over to Y&P restaurant for a underwhelming meal, which was a pity because the atmosphere was so relaxed.

The ELO Encounter in Pissouri

 Last night, we had the absolute pleasure of seeing ELO Encounter live at the Pissouri Amphitheater—and what an unforgettable evening it was. The setting itself was magical: the show began right at dusk, and as the sky darkened, a full, bright moon slowly rose over Episkopi Bay, casting a silver glow across the sea and the stage. It felt like nature itself had turned up to watch the performance.

The band were nothing short of excellent. From the very first note, they captured the spirit and sound of the Electric Light Orchestra with incredible energy and precision. Every song was played live, with no shortcuts or backing tracks—just raw, authentic talent.

A special highlight of the night for us was the string section. The two girls on electric cello and violin were simply outstanding. Their musicianship added so much depth and emotion to the performance, and they played with such style and confidence. It was clear they were enjoying every moment, and the crowd loved them for it.

Overall, ELO Encounter delivered a truly impressive and memorable show. Great music, a stunning venue, and that moonrise—what more could you ask for?

Alektora Stalla Grill

On the weekend we drover over to Alaktora with our friends Barry and Jane to visit Stalla's Grill.

We settled into the courtyard just as the sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the village We settled into the courtyard just as the sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the village rooftops.

The atmosphere was peaceful, relaxed, and full of that authentic Cypriot charm. Stella and her husband, Hero, who run the taverna, couldn’t have been more welcoming. Their warm hospitality made the evening feel like dining with old friends.

The food was delicious—freshly prepared, full of local flavour, and perfect for a summer evening.

A Day at the beach .

There’s something special about days that just fall into place. Our visit to Geroskipou Beach in Cyprus was exactly that—a day where everything felt easy, calm, and exactly where it should be.

The sun was shining from the moment we arrived, casting that beautiful Cypriot glow over the sea. The water was unbelievably clear, sparkling under the sunlight like tiny diamonds scattered across the waves. It was impossible to resist jumping in. The cool, refreshing sea was the perfect escape from the heat, and we spent ages just floating and soaking up the peaceful rhythm of the water.

When hunger eventually called us back to shore, we made our way to Thea Beach Club. It was the perfect spot—laid-back, with the sound of the sea still in our ears. We ordered an ice-cold beer (which honestly felt like the best beer I’ve ever had after a swim) and a fresh, crisp salad that tasted like summer on a plate. Simple, but perfect.

The "Lack of Commitments" show

There are some nights that linger in your memory long after the final note fades, and our visit to the Pissouri amphitheatre to see the tribute band Lack of Commitments was certainly one of them.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the amphitheatre, with the warm evening breeze drifting in from the coast, the stage was set for something special. The 11-piece band took to the stage and delivered a powerhouse two-hour performance that had the crowd tapping their feet, clapping, and singing along from start to finish.

Fronted by a striking and charismatic lead singer, the band wasted no time diving into a rich setlist inspired by soul and rhythm & blues classics. The horn section was on fire—tight, dynamic, and full of flair—punctuating every number with energy and style. The three backing singers brought a depth and soulfulness that sent shivers through the crowd, their harmonies weaving perfectly with the lead vocals.

It wasn’t just a tribute—it was a celebration of great music, performed by a group clearly having as much fun as we were. Whether it was a heartfelt ballad or a brass-driven, foot-stomping anthem, Lack of Commitments delivered it all with flair.