What to expect when renting property in Cyprus during Christmas

If you’ve just started renting property in Cyprus, there are loads of ways to experience Christmas like a local. It’s the most wonderful time of the year and residents of this large Mediterranean island know how to celebrate with true festive spirit. So transform your home and immerse yourself in the Christmas culture blanketing the island at this time of year.














 

Photo courtesy of Roberto Nikson from UnSplash

Religious Fanfare  

As an island steeped in history, it's inevitable that a holy tie runs through most elements of Cypriot life, with Christmas being no exception. Christmas eve will generally see crowds and families making their way to Church, as coloured lights and festive symbols adorn the streets overhead.

If your Cyprus property rental is fortunate enough to be placed near one of the churches, the sound of Christmas carols and bells floating along the warm breeze will melt even the biggest Scrooge’s heart. With children often gathering in groups, going door to door and sing Kalanda in exchange for small change or sweets, you can really feel the magic in the air. 

Treated twice, but make sure you’re nice

Whilst the Western tradition of receiving gifts on the 25 December is followed, most Greek Orthodox Cypriots celebrate the 12 days of Christmas, ending on 6 January. Meaning Cypriot children often reap the rewards with the tradition of presents being opened on New Year's Day (St Basil’s Day) as well. So when it comes to sneaking the gifts into your property rental in Cyprus, you might need to get very creative with your hiding places!

Luckily, you can still get the kids to be well behaved with the traditional folk tale about the kallikantzeri, the mischievous goblins that appear and causes all kinds of trouble. Often striking fear into most households during this time of year, you can have loads of fun in your Cyprus property rental by preparing your house to scare them away with some of the tried and tested ways your neighbours will show you.

Photo courtesy of CottonBro from Pexels

Full Bellies and empty plates  

What would renting property in Cyprus during Christmas be like without the table groaning under the weight of home cooked food? As with any good celebration, Cyprus gives food the centre stage during the festive period. With the traditional stuffed turkey accompanied by Christopsomo and an assortment of vegetables. Sickeningly sweet desserts follow as belts are loosened and hands reach for mulled wine to toast health and happiness. 

Deck the halls  

It's easy to get a bit carried away with the decorations at this time of year. Throwing tinsel and lighting anywhere it will hang, candles providing a warm wintery glow. You stand back and admire your newly decorated tree whilst your Christmas playlist has you reminding yourself why you don't sing in public. By Cypriot culture revolves heavily around togetherness, and of course there’s no better way to decorate your house than with the presence of family and friends. So wherever your property rental in Cyprus is, get to know your neighbours and your community and place yourself in a position to really make the most of your time in this sunny stopover for Santa. 

And if you haven't managed to find your perfect property to rent in Cyprus, you can always contact any of the agents from our branch to find out more information and get matched with your perfect home. 
 

Main Photo Source: Choose Your Cyprus