This substantial surge in property prices suggests a strong and consistent upward trend in the housing market, marking the fifth consecutive quarter of growth.
The Housing Price Index for the first quarter of 2023 has been calculated at 110.14 units, using 2015 as the base year. This figure reflects a noteworthy surge in property prices, indicating a thriving real estate market in Cyprus.
The continuous growth in the HPI signifies that for the fifth consecutive quarter, the Index has recorded an increase on an annual basis. The last decline in the Index was observed in the fourth quarter of 2021, where it experienced a 5.2 percent decrease. However, since then, the trend has shifted, and the housing market has been experiencing consistent growth. Furthermore, when compared to the fourth quarter of 2022, the HPI exhibited a notable increase of 2 percent. This suggests that the positive momentum in the housing market has carried over into the first quarter of 2023, with prices continuing to rise. It is worth noting that the fourth quarter of 2022 saw a decrease of 4 percent in the HPI when compared to the third quarter of the same year.
This decline might have been a temporary setback, as the subsequent quarter has witnessed a rebound in prices, indicating a resilient and dynamic housing market. Based on these trends, it can be speculated that the housing market in Cyprus is currently in a phase of recovery and growth.
The consecutive quarters of increasing property prices suggest a strong demand for housing and a favorable market environment. Factors such as low interest rates, improved economic conditions, and increased investor confidence could be contributing to the positive trajectory of the housing market.
However, it is important to consider that these observations are based on preliminary estimates and may be subject to revisions. Additionally, various other factors such as government policies, changes in supply and demand dynamics, and global economic conditions can influence the future direction of the housing market in Cyprus.
]]>Firstly, the size and geography of Cyprus play a role. Being a small island, it lacks the diverse landscapes and weather variations found in larger countries. The predictable sunny weather across the island and the absence of extensive train networks make traveling abroad less necessary for locals.
Comparing Cyprus to other European nations, it becomes evident that the country's unique characteristics contribute to the low travel rates. Countries like Bulgaria, Hungary, and Romania have high percentages of citizens who never leave due to factors such as lower income, distinct language and culture, and an abundance of scenic variety within their own borders.
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted travel plans for many, including Cypriots. However, even before the pandemic, a significant portion of the population had not traveled abroad in recent years.
Several personal reasons contribute to Cypriots' reluctance to travel. For Luke, a Cypriot who grew up in the UK, the mandatory military service upon returning to Cyprus deterred him from leaving the island. Rami, a Cypriot with a Lebanese background, faces travel restrictions due to unresolved child support payments and limited job prospects. Money is a constraint for Kumari, a Sri Lankan domestic worker who has been working in Cyprus for 12 years without a break to support her family.
Psychological factors also play a role. Georgia, a 48-year-old researcher, experiences anxiety and fear of flying, making it impossible for her to consider leaving Cyprus. Moreover, some individuals, like Aphrodite, an elderly woman, have found contentment and fulfillment in Cyprus and have no desire to explore other countries.
In conclusion, the combination of geographic limitations, personal circumstances, financial constraints, and psychological factors contributes to the low rate of international travel among Cypriots. While some choose to stay close to home, others face barriers that prevent them from embarking on overseas adventures.
]]>Let us take you on a delightful journey to the sun-soaked island of Cyprus. Known for its breathtaking beaches and fascinating history, the isle of Aphrodite has another trick up its sleeve – an irresistible culinary scene. Brace yourselves as we dive into the world of Cypriot cuisine, where a melange of Greek, Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean influences unite to create a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds, thirds, and beyond! Join us on a culinary adventure as we explore the vibrant and diverse flavors of Cyprus.
No exploration of Cypriot foods is complete without experiencing the quintessential tradition of meze. Meze is an array of small dishes, similar to Spanish tapas or Greek mezedes. It's a social and communal dining experience where friends and family gather to share an assortment of delicious bites. From succulent kebabs and marinated olives to creamy tzatziki and tangy halloumi cheese, meze offers an explosion of flavors that reflect the island's diverse cultural heritage.
One cannot talk about Cypriot cuisine without mentioning halloumi, the island's most beloved cheese. This cheese, crafted from a harmonious blend of creamy goat's and sheep's milk, boasts a texture so remarkable, it gracefully withstands the fiery embrace of grilling or frying. Its resilience and undeniable charm have earned it a well-deserved spot in the gastronomic hall of fame. Prepare to be amazed as you witness halloumi's remarkable transformation, maintaining its form and imparting sheer deliciousness to every dish it graces. The golden-brown crust gives way to a soft and slightly salty interior, making it a favorite addition to meze platters or as a star ingredient in salads. Halloumi's versatility and irresistible taste have made it a global sensation.
Next, let's dive into the world of keftedes, those delightful Cypriot meatballs that are simply irresistible. Bursting with flavor and made with a blend of minced meat, onions, herbs, and spices, keftedes are a true culinary delight. These savory spheres are lovingly shaped by hand, then fried to golden perfection, resulting in a crisp exterior that gives way to a tender and juicy center. Served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a meze addition, keftedes embody the essence of Cypriot comfort food. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, transporting you to the lively tavernas and family gatherings where these delectable meatballs have been savored for generations. Prepare to be captivated by the mouthwatering allure of keftedes as you embark on a culinary adventure through Cyprus.
If you're a meat lover, souvlaki is a must-try dish in Cyprus. Picture this: succulent chunks of pork or chicken, marinated to perfection and grilled to smoky, juicy perfection. Served with warm pita bread, fresh salad, and a dollop of tangy tzatziki, this is street food that will transport you to flavor heaven. Prepare to have your taste buds dancing in ecstasy!
Koupepia, also known as dolmades, is a Cypriot take on the stuffed vine leaves found throughout the Mediterranean. This delectable dish features vine leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of minced meat, rice, onions, herbs, and spices. Koupepia is then gently simmered in a tomato-based sauce, infusing the rolls with a rich and savory taste. These bite-sized rolls offer a burst of flavors in every bite and are a true testament to Cyprus' culinary heritage.
Let us not forget to savor the delightful comfort of "makaronia tou fournou." This traditional Cypriot dish, also known as baked pasta, is a true culinary masterpiece. Picture layers of al dente pasta, generously coated in a rich tomato sauce, interspersed with savory minced meat and creamy béchamel sauce. Baked to perfection, the dish emerges from the oven with a golden, crispy top, while the flavors meld together in a symphony of indulgence. Each forkful is a journey through layers of taste and texture, reminding us of the warmth and love that go into preparing this beloved comfort food. Makaronia tou fournou is a true testament to the heartwarming nature of Cypriot cuisine, leaving us craving more with every delicious bite.
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in a little something sweet, and Cypriot cuisine has just the treat for you – loukoumades. Enter loukoumades, the bite-sized balls of delight. These golden nuggets of joy are deep-fried to perfection and generously coated in a sticky syrup made from honey, cinnamon, and a hint of lemon. The result is a heavenly combination of crispy exteriors and fluffy, pillowy interiors that melt in your mouth. Loukoumades are often sprinkled with crushed nuts and a dash of cinnamon, adding a delightful crunch to every sweet bite.
Embarking on a culinary journey through Cyprus is like discovering a treasure trove of flavors, where the ancient traditions and cultural influences of the island come alive on your plate. From the communal feasting of meze to the irresistible allure of halloumi, souvlaki, koupepia, and loukoumades, with every delectable bite, we embark on a journey through time, exploring the intricate tapestry of Cyprus' captivating history and vibrant cultural diversity. Each morsel is a living testament, a flavorful tribute to the culinary traditions that have gracefully endured across generations.
]]>Nowadays, two of these traditional sweets, Soutzoukos and Palouze, are still widely produced in Cyprus and commonly served in households. Grape must is the basis for all sweets made from grape juice.
The juice is extracted from grapes and boiled with a special white soil called "asprogyri" to remove impurities. After the cleansing process, the must is left to cool down.
The grape must used in making sweets is mostly derived from the local white "xynisteri" grape variety and sometimes from the red "mavro" variety. The grape harvest season, from September to October, is the traditional time for making all grape products.
Palouzes, a sweet resembling a thick jelly, is made by combining grape must with rosewater, cinnamon, and mastic. It is served cold with crushed almonds or walnuts as a garnish.
When left to dry out, it becomes an alternative sweet called Kiofterka, often paired with Zivania as a favourite energy food. Soutzoukos, the most popular grape juice-based sweet, is made by threading whole almonds or walnuts with a cotton thread and dipping them several times into finished Palouze.
Each layer has to dry before coating it with another layer, and the process can take several days.
The long sausage-shaped sweet is served sliced thinly.
Other traditional grape-based sweets still produced today in the wine villages on the southern slopes of the Troodos are Kiofterka, Epsima, and Retselia, mostly made by women.
]]>One of the most well-known products from Cyprus is its olive oil. The island has a long history of olive cultivation, and its oil is renowned for its high quality and distinctive flavor. In addition to being used in cooking, olive oil from Cyprus is also used in cosmetics and other beauty products.
Another popular product from Cyprus is its wine. The island has a long history of winemaking, and its wines are known for their rich flavors and complex aromas. There are many different wineries on the island, each with its own unique style and offerings. Some of the most famous wines from Cyprus include Commandaria, a sweet dessert wine, and Xynisteri, a white wine that is often paired with seafood.
Cyprus is also known for its traditional handicrafts, such as pottery, lace, and carpets. These products are made using techniques that have been passed down through generations, and they are a testament to the island's rich cultural heritage. Many of these handicrafts are still made by hand using natural materials, giving them a unique and authentic charm. In addition to these traditional products, Cyprus also has a thriving modern economy that produces a variety of goods. These include clothing, electronics, and other consumer products.
Many of these products are exported to other countries, making them a valuable part of the island's economy.
Overall, Cyprus has a rich and diverse array of products that are worth exploring. From its famous olive oil and wine to its traditional handicrafts and modern goods, there is something for everyone to enjoy from this beautiful and historic island.
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For the mushroom sauce
Place a pan on high heat and add the olive oil.
Cut the onion into small pieces, finely chop the garlic and put them in the hot pan. Saute for 2-3 minutes to caramelize.
Put the mushrooms in the blender in portions and beat until they become small pieces, not puree and put them in the pan.
Cut the celery into small pieces, put it in the pan with the remaining ingredients and sauté for 15-20 minutes until all the moisture has evaporated.
Add the wine and as soon as it evaporates, add the pulp and sauté.
Add the sugar, the crushed tomato, salt, pepper, lower the heat and simmer for 4-5 minutes.
For the aubergines
Place a grill on high heat.
Cut the aubergines into thin transverse slices and add salt, pepper and 2 tbsp. olive oil.
Put the aubergines on the hot grill and cook for 2 minutes on each side until they turn brown.
For the composition
Spread olive oil in a 32x25 cm pan and spread the slices of the aubergines. Keep aside 6 eggplants.
Spread the mushroom sauce, the chopped basil on top of the aubergines and sprinkle with 1 tbsp. olive oil.
For the coating
Preheat the oven to 170o C in air.
After we have boiled and strained the potatoes well to evaporate all the moisture, we put them while they are hot in a bowl and press with the special tool for puree.
Add the margarine, pepper, salt, soy milk, nutmeg and beat with a hand blender until the ingredients are homogeneous.
Spread on top of the mushroom sauce, cover with the 6 eggplant slices we had on the side, sprinkle with olive oil and bake for 30-40 minutes.
Leave to cool and serve.
Browse through our products and find your favourite Ouzo or Tsipouro.
Greece is a country with a rich history and culture, and this is reflected in the diverse range of products that are made there. From delicious food and drink, to unique handicrafts and natural beauty products, there is something for everyone to enjoy from Greece.
One of the most well-known products from Greece is olive oil. Greece is one of the top producers of olive oil in the world, and the oil produced there is known for its high quality and distinctive flavor. Olive oil is an important part of the Mediterranean diet, and is used in a wide variety of dishes, from salads and dips, to grilled meats and vegetables.
Another popular product from Greece is feta cheese. Feta is a type of sheep's milk cheese that is traditionally made in Greece. It has a tangy, salty flavor and is often crumbled over salads or used in savory dishes like spanakopita (spinach and feta pie).
Greece is also famous for its wines, particularly those made on the island of Santorini. The unique terroir of the island, with its volcanic soil and cool climate, produces wines with bright, crisp flavors and a distinctive minerality. Some of the most popular wines from Santorini include assyrtiko, a dry white wine, and vinsanto, a sweet dessert wine.
In addition to food and drink, Greece is also known for its handmade crafts. Many of these crafts are inspired by the country's rich cultural heritage, and include items such as pottery, jewelry, and textiles. One of the most famous crafts from Greece is the evil eye talisman, which is believed to protect the wearer from bad luck.
Finally, Greece is home to many natural beauty products, made with ingredients sourced from the country's lush landscapes. These products often include olive oil as a key ingredient, as well as other natural ingredients like honey and lavender. Many of these products are made using traditional methods, and are a great way to pamper yourself while also supporting local artisans.
In conclusion, there are many wonderful products from Greece that are worth trying. From delicious food and drink, to handmade crafts and natural beauty products, there is something for everyone to enjoy from this beautiful country.
The route through 14 villages of Commandaria dates back to 1192 AD. when the Knights of Saint John perfected the production of the world's first named wine. Sweet wine derives its identity from the place where it was mainly produced - "La Grande Commanderie" - which is the estate known today as Kolossi.
Commandaria was so famous that she even won the first recorded wine tasting competition - the "Battle of the Wines" - which took place in the 13th century and was organized by the French King Philippe Auguste.
The indigenous Mavro (red) and Xynisteri (white) grapes are harvested late in the season and sun-dried to intensify their natural sweet aromas, giving the drink its distinctive taste. The dried grapes are then pressed, the runoff collected and fermented in vats or huge terracotta pots - just like in the old days.
Four wineries line this route and a visit to the region is not complete without stopping at the renovated Laneia press, maintained over the centuries, and which recalls the glorious past of winemaking. Another popular site is also the medieval Kolossi Castle - or 'La Grande Commanderie' as it was once called.
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