Heatwave and a birthday

Cyprus is sizzling this week as a massive heatwave sweeps the island! Our neighbouring village of Avdimou took the crown as the hottest spot, scorching under a sweltering 46°C.

Here in Pissouri we topped out at 44 degrees. We are thankful for air conditioning. Although we did have a short power cut in the village earlier this week.

Trying to get some sea Breeze we popped over to the Kyrena beach restaurant to help Tim celebrate his birthday. After a lovely lunch we enjoyed some lovely slice of carrot cake with the birthday boy.

Ocean Vision and Beer Night 2

On our second day in Paphos we awoke to temperature of 33 degrees but with humidity it made it feel like the early 40's. After a light breakfast we strolled over to the harbour an joined the Ocean Vision yacht for a 4 hour cruise. 

The moment we left the harbour, the sea gifted us a magical sight — two dolphins leaping and playing beside the boat, as if they were escorting us on our way.

We settled on the aft deck, sipping chilled drinks while the sun glistened on the water. Soon, we arrived at our swim stop, where a dip in the cool, clear sea felt like pure bliss.

Back on board, we indulged in a delicious lunch buffet served in the comfort of the air-conditioned saloon. With plates cleared and spirits high, we set sail again, cruising along the Paphos coast as a refreshing breeze swept over us — a perfect counter to the day’s heat.

That evening, we met up with friends from Pissouri for a relaxed bite to eat before wandering over to the Paphos Beer Festival. The air was thick with humidity, but icy beers worked their magic. We ended the night with the sounds of Midnight Rebellion filling the air and the taste of a juicy bratwurst in hand — the perfect close to a summer’s day.

A Weekend in Paphos Day 1

Our weekend break in Paphos began on extremely hot day in Cyprus when we drove over to Geroskipou Beach, even though we sat in the shade, we still got sunburnt. The saving grace was swimming in the beautiful Mediterranean sea.

We the drove over to Paphos where we checked into the Harbour lights apartments.

After a brief siesta we wandered down the seafront to Imperial palace Chinese restaurant. The food was very good and the service was exceptional .

We then strolled over to the harbour where they we hosting the Paphos beer and music festival. 

We picked up a couple of beers and watched the Velvet Rope band, the festival was extremely busy.

The Greeks come to Town

Last night, Pete and I made our way to the Europa Conference League clash between Aris Limassol and AEK Athens — a fixture that promised passion, drama, and a true footballing spectacle.

As arrived at the ground, hundreds of AEK fans had gathered, their voices echoing in a chorus of chants. Red and yellow flares lit up the night sky, sending plumes of smoke drifting over the stadium. 

From the first whistle, the game was played at a tremendous pace. The visitors from Athens wasted no time stamping their authority, surging into a two-goal lead that had their travelling supporters roaring in delight.

But Aris weren’t about to roll over. Spurred on by their passionate home crowd, they fought back with grit and determination. Two quick goals brought them level, and by the time the referee blew for half-time, we had been treated to a thrilling, end-to-end 45 minutes.

The second half was a more cagey affair. Both sides pushed for a winner, creating chances but unable to land the decisive blow. In the end, the match finished 2–2 — a fair result after a night of high drama and relentless energy.

The Greeks had come to town, and they’d brought the noise, the colour, and the spectacle.

Mandela and Octopus

The weekend begin with  Mandy packing her tote bag, slapped on the factor 50, and headed off to the sun-drenched Cypriot village of Peyia.

Mandy enrolled in a Mandala Dotting Course. And no, that’s not some trendy dance move or yoga thing. It’s proper mindful business involving paint, patience, and an eye for symmetry.

Held in a shady little garden,  the course was run by Ren, who taught the ladies how to dot on ceramic tiles.

Saturday afternoon saw us drive over to Kyrenia beach restaurant for lunch. As we hit the coast line we could see the kite surfers riding the waves with their colourful sails above,

it could’ve been painted. It was the perfect backdrop as we settled down at our table.

As always, we were greeted with the warmest of welcomes — smiles and a little wink from the waiter who remembers Mandy’s order better than she does. It’s that kind of place.

Rob, being the braver soul, went for the grilled octopus. Tender, smoky, and beautifully charred on the edges. Served with a squeeze of lemon and a chilled glass of white, it was the standout dish of the day.