How are you doing?

Last month quite a few readers emailed/called me and we discussed all sorts of things concerning Cyprus. To list some of things that people ask me:

- are there regular flights from Ireland to Cyprus in winter

- when and how are title deeds available?????

- who are the most reliable builders in Cyprus?

- How to solve issue of title deeds particularly for apartment in larger developments?

- we are looking to buy a re-sale property in Paphos the property is three years old so the title deeds are not yet available how safe will my money be?

- I need to furnish a 2 bed apartment and need some recommendations. There are lots of packages around but the prices differ vastly. Advice would be appreciated

- How do you avoid getting a corrupt solicitor as they all seem dodgy?

If you want answers to any of these questions or just want to have a general chat about Cyprus, give me a call. It’s much easier to chat over the phone. My number is 0207 898 0549.

Many people are interested in the Title Deed issue – I’ve written many articles for Paphos Post, Cyprus Mail, Grapevine, UKCA, Cyprus Living…all on Title Deeds. Give me a ring and I’ll send you some of the recent articles I’ve written.

Right – I’m actually getting ready to fly over to Mexico next week. One of my dearest friends is getting married and it’s going to be an absolute blast. There are 30 of us from the UK flying out and my mom has managed to get a last-minute flight so I’ll be able to spend 5 days with her. Am I excited? Yes! I’m actually climbing up walls right now…It’s going to be the first time I take a full 2 week holiday.

I work very hard – probably 80 hours/week so this holiday is much needed. Once I return I’ll be planning my next trip to Cyprus. When are you going out next? Let me know as I’ll try to meet you out there.

Anyway…have a great month and enjoy the newsletter.

Big love,

Kim

Cyprus Buying Guide
The Overseas Guides Company
Kim@CyprusBuyingGuide.com

Easter celebrations in Cyprus – by Jackie Nicholls

There just isn’t a better to time to visit Cyprus than Easter. It’s such a wonderful time of the year, full of celebrations and fun and, of course, gorgeous weather.

Easter in Cyprus only falls at the same time as the UK once every 5 years. Last year the dates were the same. This year, Easter in Cyprus is from Friday 17th April through to Tuesday 21st April. Here, we have an additional Bank Holiday on the Tuesday, which is something to look forward to.

So what’s different about Easter in Cyprus? Well, first of all, it is the most important holiday in the Greek Orthodox calendar, far outranking Christmas. It is the period when most Cypriots take time off from their working lives to celebrate with enthusiasm and vigour, recalling old traditions and customs which bring out colourful and joyful aspects of Cypriot life.

The Easter customs run over seven weeks – yes seven weeks! The period starts fifty days before Easter Sunday, on a day traditionally known as “Smoky Thursday”. This name originated from the smoke and aromas of lamb and pastries being cooked on charcoal fires all over the island before the carnivals commence.

Carnival week has just ended - the last fling of eating, drinking and musical plays before fasting begins. All towns in Cyprus hold carnivals, but Limassol holds the best of all. Hundreds of children greet the triumphant entry of the giant figure of King Carnival into the city. The carnival attracted thousands of visitors this year and gets more and more spectacular as each year goes by. The atmosphere was electric – do try not to miss it next year.

Green Monday marks the end of the Carnival days and lent gets closer. So what is Green Monday? It’s a day for flying kites - there are literally hundreds in the skies, it’s truly spectacular. But more importantly, it’s the day the body is cleansed for fasting. You will see families in the fields and hillsides, with baskets full of raw vegetables, cabbage, celery, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives and so on – but no meat. These vegetarian picnics turn into serious parties, as wine and brandy are also deemed essential to the “cleansing” process! So Carnival week ends as it began – with a hangover!

A quiet period then follows before Easter. On Friday afternoons a service is held in the churches in honour of the Virgin Mary with priests chanting - it’s very special.

Excitement gathers as Holy Week gets closer. The ladies bake “Flaouna” which is a delicious Cypriot cheesecake, along with several other traditional types of bread and cake. Children have a wonderful time, dyeing hard-boiled eggs yellow and dark red – they tie flowers and petals around the eggs before colouring them.

If you are here on Good Friday, don’t be shy about joining in the celebrations or visiting the churches - the scent of spring flowers displayed inside is unforgettable. After evening service, the clergy lead a procession through the streets, with everyone joining in.

Saturday is very quiet until the resurrection service begins at midnight. Massive bonfires are lit by the church entrances. Firecrackers are let off, adding to the atmosphere. Then suddenly, the church is plunged into darkness, ready for this important event.

A huge candle is blessed and lit while all members of the congregation hold lit candles too. The church is completely illuminated while calls of “Christo Anesti” (Christ is Risen) and the response of “Alithos Anesti” (He Has Risen Indeed!) pass from the priests to the excited crowds and back again.

Sunday arrives and the biggest parties of the year begin. Men start up the charcoal fires while the women prepare salads and skewers packed with lamb. The children crack their coloured eggs with their friends. Everyone shows friendship and goodwill, glasses are clinking and the sound of laughter is everywhere. This is a day for the men to take over the cooking and the villages burst at the seams with friends, relatives and tourists all joining in the celebrations.

Don’t be worried about being a stranger – you never are in Cyprus, especially at Easter. If you hear “Kopiaste”, this means “Come and join us”. This invitation is warm and genuine, so please do.

Cypriot hospitality is never more apparent than at Easter, so come and join us – you’ll be glad you did!

Check out the Cyprus Website for more information on all sorts! http://www.CyprusBuyingGuide.com

Where to for the £ against the euro?

by Smart Currency’s Charles Purdy.

Where to for the £ against the euro? This is a question I am often asked and, to be honest, it is near enough impossible to know what the answer is, especially at times like this when all economic reason seems to have been either discarded or disowned.

There is a belief that by the end of the year we will see sterling rise to €1.20/£1. That could be…but I think we have an equal chance of being at €0.90/£1 by the end of the year.

There are three main reasons why the future exchange rate for sterling is so uncertain. Firstly, sterling is unloved and is not one of the big boys, such as the €, the US$ and the Japanese Yen, when it comes to world trade. Secondly, the IMF views us as the most likely of the industrialised nations to be last out of the current recession; we have a government which is running a huge budget and balance of payment deficit. Thirdly, our economy is dependent on the financial sector, which is clearly in trouble.

With so much uncertainty I think it is important not to second guess what is going to happen – rather work out a plan which will limit your downside risk [and remove some, if not all, of the stress] based on where we are now. Unless you are a committed gambler, I suggest you make sure that you don’t suddenly have to find another £5,000 to cover the increased cost of buying those euros for your house purchase should sterling continue to lose even more ground against the euro.

Also you shouldn’t risk the value of your monthly pension going down even further. We know that, even with deflation on the horizon, every lost € hurts and can reduce your enjoyment of a “life in the sun”.

If you haven’t had a chance to discuss in detail what the alternatives are for either larger or more regular payments, and how to minimise your currency risks, then please give us a ring and we will be happy to talk about your possible options.

To read the latest on Serling and the Euro go to: http://www.CyprusBuyingGuide.com/Currency260309.htm

Why overseas property buyers lose money...
...and how you can avoid it!

This 10-page educational report outlines:

• Case Study: When Property Buyer, Mr Reed, Purchased an Overseas Property, he Made Three Mistakes that Cost Him £10,256...learn how you can avoid them...
  
  
• How the Banks make HUGE profits from their long-standing unsuspecting customers
  
  
• Ways to safeguard yourself against adverse fluctuations in exchange rates (or in other words, helping you to keep your money in your pocket)
  
  
• The entire process of moving money from the UK to any overseas location, so that you're armed with all the knowledge you need to make intelligent decisions about your money
  
  
• How you can ultimately save £100’s and £1000’s so that you have ample money to buy furniture and white goods…
  
  
• More case studies of people that lost money due to foreign currency strengthening against the pound, so that you learn from other peoples mistakes rather than your own!
  

And just a couple remarks about the report from our readers...

"We have found your free report to be extremely helpful... Wendy Watson"

"I have read and absorbed the information in the stories outlining the mistakes which the uninitiated can make when transferring currency. It is very illuminating and essential that any one,like myself, who is in the process of buying an overseas property should be aware of. I would go so far as to say that every agent selling overseas properties should be compelled to advise their prospective purchasers that it is paramount that they use a currency expert such as yourselves. Regards, Eric Thomas"

To get a copy of the report at no charge go to: http://www.smartcurrencyexchange.com/freereport.htm

To get a Better-than-Bank rate go to: http://www.smartCurrencyExchange.com/smartsquotation.htm
or call Carl on 08081 630 102 freephone.

Welcome to Stroumbi Hills

Paradise on earth is more than just a dream - in Cyprus it is a reality.

The epitome of style and modernity, Stroumbi Hills is an exclusive development that redefines the meaning of luxury living. Nestling on a secluded hillside near Paphos amongst eucalyptus and olive trees, awake each morning in your own oasis of calm to breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the glistening Mediterranean on the far horizon.

Each distinctively designed villa raises pampering to new heights - and the prospect of new experiences for you to cherish and share with friends and family. The choice is yours - private spa facilities, infinity swimming pools, fire places and roof gardens. Decide for yourself what paradise on earth looks like - and make your dream come true!

Situated roughly 17kms from Paphos and 20kms from Polis, Stroumbi is a thriving modern village firmly rooted in a traditional Cypriot lifestyle. This is the ideal location for permanent living or a holiday home – the town boasts the essentials of modern living yet protects its heritage for the benefit of residents and visitors alike. Stroumbi’s two schools - infant and elementary - are located just off the main square together with a community centre.

The crystal-clear water and sandy beaches of Coral Bay are about 15 minutes away. For the keen golfer looking for a year-round opportunity to indulge their passion, the superb facilities at Tsada golf course, north of Paphos, are only a few minutes drive. If you favour more relaxing recreational pursuits there is excellent fishing at the nearby Evretou Dam. Alternatively, the sun drenched beaches of Polis are within easy reach. This charming town is the perfect location for sponge diving and watersports, with a choice of excellent fish restaurants where you can relax at the end of the day before taking a relaxing drive to your dream home in Stroumbi.

You couldn’t time this purchase better: a new health spa is opening at the nearby village of Miliou and plans are firmly in place for a direct motorway link between Paphos International Airport and Polis, cutting down the journey time between the two and destinations en route. Stroumbi is therefore perfectly positioned for the shrewd investor to take advantage of quicker and easier access to the airport, enhanced lifestyle amenities in the area and the prospect of healthy capital growth. You may be buying this home for yourself but wisdom dictates that you should always buy a property with resale potential…just in case!

This exclusive development comprises 11 individually designed luxury villas with covered areas of between 146.86 m2 and 210.30 m2 on generous plots ranging from 254.71m2 to 480m2. Each property has a private swimming pool - those on higher levels enjoying the 'infinity edge' style. Depending on personal preferences, you can select from the specifications for individual villas that include a basement, an independent guest house or has provision to install a spa.

Prices start from 417,450.00 euros including VAT.

I know you are tempted – I must confess so am I! I am happy to assist anyone who is interested in finding out more about these lovely villas. Please just give me a call on 0207 898 0549 and we can have a chat. Or go to: http://www.CyprusBuyingGuide.com/requirmentsform.htm and fill in the form.

Getting Married in Cyprus? (by Me!)

Not long ago a wedding overseas was considered a bit extravagant and quite costly – today, it’s not only popular but it can also be quite affordable. With wedding packages starting at £1,000, the bride and groom can choose between a low-key ceremony and reception or splash out with all the bells and whistles. On the whole, the cost of getting married in Cyprus can be far cheaper than arranging the memorable day in the UK.

Nowadays most guests are happy to pay a bit extra knowing that the wedding includes a beach holiday! With low cost air carrier’s flying to both of Cyprus’s major airports and a wide range of competitively priced hotels and holiday lets, there’s no reason to let money be a deterrent. It’s entirely possibly for guests to fly to Cyprus for a long weekend for the same cost as staying at a hotel in the UK.

As for the wedding…any bride-to-be can create her fairy tale wedding in Cyprus as there are a multitude of spectacular hotels, traditional churches and beautiful backdrops to choose from. The happy couple also have the option of getting married on a boat! With 360 days of sun, the wedding party and guests will surely enjoy the good weather, excellent food and opportunity to soak up some sun.

Couples interested in Cyprus for their marriage also have a wide array of options to select from. The pair can easily source a hotel wedding planner, an independent wedding consultant or take the DIY approach and plan the wedding themselves. Aside from choosing where to have the wedding and reception, couples are spoiled for choice when it comes to flowers, cakes, music, ceremonies, transportation, food, beverages and entertainment.

Prior to getting married in Cyprus, many couples choose to enjoy a Hen/Stag night out on one of Cyprus’s trendy bar streets. There are an array of classy wine bars, calm and cool tavernas and energising party-goer clubs. Aside from the pre-wedding celebrations, the wedding party can also take a couple of days to perfect their tan so as to ensure they all look their best for the important wedding photos.

After the amazing day is over, time for relaxation kicks in. Newlyweds can extend their stay on the wonderful island to enjoy a sun-filled, relaxing honeymoon. With long sandy beaches, the fresh Mediterranean breeze and blue skies, the couple will surely start their new life off in paradise.

Get more information about buying and living in Cyprus in my Guide:

http://www.CyprusBuyingGuide.com/Guide.htm

Holidays Uncovered (by Carol)

I have found such a wonderful website that I just have to share with you! It’s called Holidays Uncovered and contains no nonsense reviews by people just like you and me. Personally I will never book a hotel again without referring to this website!

I tested it by typing in a hotel I had actually visited and up it came with a couple of reviews. One had pretty much my thoughts on the hotel, but funnily enough it seems that not all the rooms were as good as the one I had stayed in. After reading that I would insist on seeing the room before checking in…and how useful is it to know that?

The site includes most countries worldwide. Not only are there comprehensive hotel reviews but general travel reviews with all sorts of interesting bits ’n bobs, best to see, a weather chart and a forum that you can join. I was reading this sneakily while at work, but this weekend I plan to dash off a few reviews of hotels I have stayed in around the world – it’s the least one can do for one’s fellow travellers!

I recently visited Ladakh in Himalayan India – my second visit actually to this really out of the way place. I feel honour-bound to share with folk the two or three really spectacularly good hotels that I discovered there – through much trial and error I might add!! If you want to have a look, go to:

Holidays Uncovered

and do add your reviews too!

Cyprus Property Buying & Investment Guide

'I believe that the CBG is an excellent tool that everyone should get BEFORE moving or buying in Cyprus. I especially like the fact that you have a blog/webforim and also that you make referrals. I am currently still in process for finding an IFA, but thanks to you, I now know where to look.

Abe Minto'

If you haven't already purchased our excellent FULL Guide why not get a copy today?

Go to: http://www.CyprusBuyingGuide.com/Guide.htm

Rent or advertise a rental property

Do you have a holiday home that you want to rent out? OR

Do you want to take a ‘test-drive’ and stay in a holiday home – in other words, ‘try before you buy’? I found that holidaylettings.co.uk is an excellent resource.

This site really has to be one of the most easy and clearly laid out sites that I have seen – within a few seconds I was viewing a lovely property in Cyprus…plus instructions as to how to get there, where to eat….this could become addictive! Over 2 million holidaymakers visit the site each month, so that speaks for itself. And if you are advertising your own property that is really music to the ears isn’t it?

To find a property to rent, you can use various search criteria and restrict your choices to location, dates, price and various other options. Late deals, early bargains, holiday ideas – it’s all here. If you know what you want it’s here, and if you don’t, they will help you to find it!

As for renting a property out…Rather than getting tied into a monthly direct debit or a commission type payment there is only a small annual fee required. For the fee, you’re allowed a full page of text with up to 20 photos, an availability calendar and an easy system to get the information onto the website.

Before recommending the site to you, I did a bit of background research…The company has been around since 1999, and have grown continuously since then - by an amazing 100% in each of the last 4 years! Over 17,000 owners advertise over 28,000 properties on the site and they have over 2 million visitors to the site every month.

I’ve been informed that HolidayLettings.co.uk also has an excellent reputation for telephone customer service provided by real people in their Oxford, UK office. They were ranked in the top 10 of the most visited property websites throughout 2008, ahead of all other UK holiday home letting sites, by Hitwise, the leading online intelligence service.

As they mention on their website, low-cost airlines and holiday rentals listing sites have made holidays in Europe and beyond much more affordable to the independent traveller. Plus of course those hit by the credit crunch may well be seeking to rent abroad rather than going the expensive hotel route – have a look and see what you think.

If you want to rent out a property, one of my associates managed to get a deal for Guide Readers… If you enter the following promotional code you can get 15 months of advertising (of your property) for the price of 12 months – Code: 45749. Or, just go to: Holiday Lettings

Top Tip

One of the biggest tips I can give people that are buying in Cyprus is to talk to loads of people and gather information from every source possible. Don’t every base any decision on information supplied from one source. In many cases, you can ask 10 people the same question and get 10 different answers. For example, try asking everyone you meet in Cyprus what a ‘Bank Guarantee’ is… I asked that question 3 years ago and I’m still not certain that I’ve been given the correct information.

As a rule of thumb, do not believe anything you hear about new marina’s, amusement parks, golf courses, and so forth… Cyprus is one of those countries where things will happen eventually, however it may take 10 to 20 years! For example, three years ago many people purchase land/property around the future golf course located near Larnaca. Buyers were told the course was set to start 6 months to 12 months later… Needless to say, I’m still not certain if it’s actually started yet or how long it will take.

For more information on what to do and not do in Cyprus, read my guide!

http://www.cyprusbuyingguide.com/guide.htm

Goodbye for now

So...have a great month. Give me a ring before I leave for Mexico if you want to have a chat. Call 0207 898 0549.

Smiles,

Kim
Cyprus Buying Guide
The Overseas Guides Company Limited.
mailto:Kim@CyprusBuyingGuide.com