A Night to Remembe A Night to Remembe
If you're looking for an evening that blends delicious food, vibrant culture, and unforgettable entertainment, Zaatar Syrian Lebanese Restaurant is the place to be.
The atmosphere at Zaatar is warm and inviting, with traditional décor that sets the tone for an authentic experience. The highlight of the night? The mesmerizing bellydancing performance. The dancer moved with such grace and energy—it was captivating. The live music added an extra layer of excitement, turning the entire dining area into a celebration. It wasn’t just entertainment; it was a cultural showcase that brought the restaurant to life
After dinner, we relaxed with a shisha. The flavors were smooth and aromatic, definitely worth trying. Sitting back under the night sky with friends, sharing stories over shisha, and soaking in the ambiance made for a perfect ending to the evening.
Of course, the food deserves its own praise. From the rich, creamy hummus to the perfectly grilled meats and fragrant salads, every bite was a delight. The service was attentive, and the staff clearly took pride in making sure we had a memorable night.
Zaatar isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Whether you're a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, live performance, or simply looking for a fun night out, I highly recommend giving it a visit
Editor’s Note
Hello July
WOW!!! Have you seen our instagram views lately? 170,000 views in one month! Way to go! If you’d like an instagram post to promote yourself just drop me a message And please give us a follow @lifestylemagcyprus
We’re in the full flow of summer and I love it, it’s the best time of the year It’s the perfect time to book a boat trip and I recommend St Georgios II in Protaras or for a pirate themed fun-filled day out, The Black Peal from Ayia Napa Both can be booked through Vic’s Tickets who offers day trips, excursions and much more to ensure your summer is memorable. Of course I couldn’t miss a mention that I have written a book, available on Amazon and Kindle, titled, “You’re Going To Die So Do It Anyway.” It’s the perfect book for the beach and it just won a Breaking Boundaries literary award in Australia.so order your copy on Amazon!
As always Lifestyle magazine is filled with ideas to make your summer more memorable Cyprus may be a small island but it’s BIG on great food, beautiful beaches and fabulous entertainment. Whatever you do this month, stay stylish.
MARAIYA BELLYDANCER
How did you first get into belly dancing?
It was my first passion, even before I knew its name. I was introduced to it through watching Shakira on television although I did not know what the dance style was called at the time, I would spend hours imitating her movements in front of the screen. Growing up in Cyprus, I was also familiar with tsifteteli, a traditional dance in our culture My father often played Greek tsifteteli music at home and would record me dancing to it. One day, my mother asked if I would like to attend dance lessons. I responded enthusiastically, telling her I wanted to learn “the Shakira dance”
That marked the beginning of my formal training, which I started through General Dance Education. There, I was introduced not only to belly dancing but also to other dance styles, along with training in posture and discipline
What drew you to this particular dance form over others?
To be honest, I cannot recall a specific reason It has simply always been a part of me For as long as I can remember, I have been deeply drawn to belly dancing. I was excited to learn every technique, master every movement, and dance to every Arabic song I heard.
Even when I began exploring other dance styles, belly dancing continued to hold a special place in my heart.
What are some of the most misunderstood aspects of belly dance?
I grew up in Cyprus, where belly dancing was often seen in a negative way by some people. Many thought it was something sexual or inappropriate, rather than seeing it as a true form of art.
Maraiya runs classes from her studio in Larnaca and performs at event around the island. See her at Zaatar Food Arts weekly through the month (times vary so check with restaurant)
This view comes partly from its long history, but also because not every dancer respects the dance or performs it the way it’s meant to be. That can give people the wrong idea.
Another common misunderstanding is that belly dance is only for women, or that it's just meant to entertain men. That is a myth. Belly dance is a powerful and expressive art form that can be performed by anyone.
For the past ten years, I’ve worked hard to help change this way of thinking in Cyprus And honestly, I believe we’ve made great progress. More people now see belly dance for what it really is, an art that deserves respect. When I first started performing, there were a few times when people called me to book a show, and it became clear that they misunderstood what the performance was about. They thought belly dance meant something else entirely. I would spend hours on the phone with them, defending my art and explaining what belly dance truly is, an elegant, expressive, and cultural dance form that deserves respect
What physical or emotional benefits have you noticed since starting?
Every time I finish a performance, I feel great both physically and emotionally
Belly dancing is a full-body workout, and after so many years, my body has become used to that kind of movement..
You learn to feel every muscle, connect with it through movement, and express that connection through dance. That’s where the energy comes from, it flows from your body, through your soul, and reaches the audience.
For a woman, belly dance is deeply connected to feminine energy. It builds confidence because it helps you feel good in your own body You learn to love yourself as you are That’s why belly dancing is for every body type. The only things you need are self-acceptance, respect for your body, and the courage to let your feminine power shine
This dance also involves a lot of pelvic movement, which is linked to feminine energy and fertility. That connection gives women a unique inner strength not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well.
job I booked while wearing it. I’ve never tried to sell any of them because I have a strong emotional connection to each piece.
What can someone expect when they attend one of your belly dance classes for the first time?
Physically, belly dance gives me cardio, core training, and full-body toning Because the dance is based on isolations, I end up using and strengthening almost every muscle. The emotional benefits are even more powerful.
How has belly dancing empowered you as a woman/artist?
Belly dancing is all about isolation. You have to truly know your body from the inside out.
As an artist and a businesswoman, belly dance has taught me self-discipline, creativity, and leadership It has given me a voice, not only on stage but in life. It has empowered me to take charge of my career, express my identity, and inspire others to do the same
Tell us about your costumes I absolutely love my costumes!! Each one carries its own story and memories. I still have my very first costume from when I was a child, as well as my first professional costume. I can remember exactly which competition I wore each one in, what place I received, and which
My students know that my classes are much more than just music and “shaking” the body. Each class is structured and focused on real b technique We work on foundational movements, follow a clear syllabus, study belly dance rhythms, and learn high level choreographies Discipline, respect, and humility are three core values I always pass on to my students At the same time, we’re like one big belly dance family. bellydancer maraiya
SUN-KISSED SPARKS & SAVVY CHOICES
As a male coach working with women, and a former international club DJ, I’ve seen holiday romances light up like summer stars over the Cypriot coast From the DJ booth in Ayia Napa’s vibrant clubs, I’ve watched countless connections spark, and we’ve all had them in some form: those heartfluttering moments, like when you, ladies, catch the eye of a bronzed lifeguard by the pool or feel a flutter for the barman pouring ouzo with a warm smile In the days before smartphones stole our focus, conversation was our only tool: direct, unfiltered, and sometimes awkward. Today, in 2025, we’re nudged back to those real-life chats on holiday, despite the pull of notifications. With tech like AI suggesting date ideas or apps syncing diaries across continents, a beachside chat can easily become a global connection, especially since Greeks in Cyprus speak English fluently, no translation gizmos needed. But here’s the reality: this connectivity can weave dreams that fade when real life kicks in, leaving you with a quiet ache and a phone full of silence.
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As you age, the stakes shift. Life’s weight: work pressures, past breakups, perhaps kids needing bedtime stories, makes you more open to hurt if your holiday flame isn’t on the same wavelength A playful comment over a meze platter in paradise might hint at control issues back home, worsened by constant WhatsApp messages that mask deeper mismatches. With age, emotions run deeper; a wrong match can drain you, leaving you wondering if love’s taken a permanent holiday I’ve seen it from the decks: young revellers shrug off misfires, but older hearts linger on the fallout. Approach with care and optimism. Holidays cut through everyday clutter, showing people’s true selves. Look for real connection: laughter over souvlaki, shared excitement on boat trips around Ayia Napa’s caves, or sunrise talks by the Mediterranean that touch on hopes and fears. Green flags include respect: he values your solo moments, speaks openly about life beyond the resort, and follows through with video calls, not just fleeting texts
Watch for the “holiday charmer”: dazzling but fleeting, disappearing post-trip despite apps that make contact simple. Red flags include subtle control: urging you to skip friends for “us” time, or pushing intimacy too fast without emotional depth
Holiday romances should bring lightness, not chains.Kindness that outlasts sunscreen, ambition that aligns, support that feels steady. In 2025’s wired world, lasting bonds need mutual effort and trust
A
fect Day At Sea
We recently joined one of the Blue Lagoon cruises with St. Georgios II from Protaras Pier and it was truly one of the highlights of the week. This family-run company offers a variety of cruise options – including adults-only cruises, lively sunset disco cruises, and leisurely day trips that run twice a day so there's really something for everyone. We opted for the daytime cruise, and also experienced the sunset cruise. They were both absolutely fantastic from start to finish.
The boat itself is spacious, very clean, and well-maintained. There is plenty of seating both in the sun and shade, making it easy to relax and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery as we cruised along the Greko coastline. Everything felt really well-organized and safe, which made it all the more enjoyable.
What really stood out, though, was the amazing crew. They were some of the friendliest and most helpful people we’ve met on any tour. From welcoming us aboard with a smile to making sure everyone was comfortable and happy, they went above and beyond. You could tell they genuinely love what they do, and that made all the difference.
All cruises last around 4 hours and include two swim stops, one of which was at the stunning Blue Lagoon. And there was even an inflatable slide off the top deck for those who dared to try it! During one of the stops, something truly magical happened – a curious turtle swam right up to us! It lingered nearby for a while, and we were lucky enough to enjoy a swim alongside it.
Back on board, lunch was served – and wow, it was delicious! Fresh bbq chicken, with heaps of salad, fresh chips and tomato cous cous. Totally flavorful, and just what we needed after a swim. There were options for everyone, and the portions were generous too with even second helpings for those who wanted it.
This cruise is the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and fun. Whether you’re looking for a chilledout day in nature, a romantic sunset with music, or a chance to party and swim, St. Georgios Cruises has it all covered. We wouldn’t hesitate to book with them again and can’t recommend them highly enough to anyone visiting Cyprus. We booked through Vic’s Tickets Kapparis, who caters for all your holiday excursions
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CHOCOLATE: Oli The Choc Chocolate Is CHOCOLATE: Oli The Choc Chocolate Is
No Longer Just a Treat – It’s a Trend, a No Longer Just a Treat – It’s a Trend, a Lifestyle, Lifestyle, and and a Viral Obsession a Viral Obsession
From ethical storytelling to TikToksmashesandpistachio perfection–onechocolatier shareswhywe’relivinginthe golden(cocoa)age.
Chocolate is having a moment. In fact, it’s never been cooler, more creative, ormoreviral.
10YearsAgo,aBarWasJust aBar
In 2015, the shelves were ruledbythechocolategiants
— Cadbury, Nestlé, and the like. But fast forward to today, and there’s a clear shift: artisan, indie chocolatiersandbean-to-bar makers are now the first choiceforagrowingnumber ofconsumers.
It’s not just about taste anymore — it’s about craft, ethics, sustainability, aesthetics, and storytelling.
Take Tony’s Chocolonely: a brand built on being slavefree, sustainable, and downright delicious. People wantmorethanchocolate–theywantamessage.
Chocolate as a Superfood? BelieveIt.Onceconsidereda guilty pleasure, chocolate (specificallydark,high-cocoa chocolate) is now being hailed as a wellness hero. Rawcacaonibs?Astaplein manyhealth-conscioussnack stashes – and one of my personalfaves.
InstagramMadeItSexy.TikTokMade ItSmash.
Social media has completely redefined the chocolate experience. It’snotenoughforittotastegood–it hastolookincredible,crack,melt,or smash in the most satisfying way possible.
FlavourGetsFancy.
Socialmediahasalsohelped birthawaveofunexpected, experimental flavours matcha, miso, tahini, lavender, pistachio, rose, evencheese(yep,really).Ifit looks good on a grid and sparks curiosity, it’s got potentialtogoviral.
ChocolateIsn’tJustaTreat–It’sanExperience
DIY chocolate kits, edible slime, chocolate LEGO, and even build-your-own GIANT Reese’s Cups (shoutout to Hershey’s NYC) – playful, interactive creations are dominatingthescene,andit all started when lockdown forced us to bring the fun home.
The new rules? Go big. Be bold.Getcreative.
“We’re just scratching the surface of the Wonkalicious world of chocolate meets internet culture. The future of chocolate is experiential, ethical, and extremely Instagrammable — and I’m here for every bite. Let’s Choc N Roll!”
Oli The Choc
Introducing Vedére
A New Era of Elevated Accessories, Inspired by Love and Crafted in Cyprus
Vedére is a thoughtfully curated collection of luxury scarves and capes, designed to elevate any outfit from bridal and beyond, without the designer price tag The idea for Vedére was born from Isabella’s own elopement, where she struggled to find a veil-like accessory that felt special, chic, and accessible. Frustrated by the lack of options between mass-market accessories and overpriced designer pieces, Isabella and Rachael set out to create something new working with local artisans in Cyprus to bring their vision to life. Each Vedére piece is handcrafted on the island, blending local craftsmanship with timeless design. The result is a mid-range priced collection that feels luxurious yet attainable, catering to fashion lovers who want to make a statement without compromising on quality With over 550,000 followers across TikTok and Instagram, Isabella brings her creative direction and content prowess to the brand, while Rachael leverages her decade-long career in global brand marketing and PR for leading e-commerce brands. Together, they’ve combined their talents to not only launch a brand, but to champion Cyprus as an emerging hub for fashion and creativity.
Shopthecollectionnowatwww.byvedere.comand follow@byvedereforthelatestdrops,styling inspiration,andbehind-the-scenescraftsmanship.
TIPS FOR COMFORTABLE AND SAFE TRAVEL WITH HEARING AIDS
Traveling with hearing aids doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right preparation and some practical tips, you can enjoy your trips without any surprises. In this article, you will find a complete practical guide to travel worry-free, without missing asinglepreciousmoment
1. Don’t Leave Your Hearing AidsatHome
Hearingaidsareyourallyfor a more enjoyable and safe trip,astheyallowyouto: Hear clear announcements at airports, ports, or stations.
Understand instructions from staff, guides, or companions
Travelingwithhearingaidsshouldnot beachallengebutanopportunity. Withproperpreparation,alittle technologicalhelp,andsomesmart moves,youcanexploretheworld withoutlimitations,enjoyevery sound,andactivelyparticipatein everyexperience.
Actively participate in conversations with familyandfriends
�� Helpful Tip: You don’t need to remove your hearing aids during security checks. You can wear them normally when passing through metal detectors or evenduringtheflight.
2. Always Carry Extra BatterieswithYou
Nothing is worse than running out of battery while on the move. Therefore, always make sure you have theessentialswithyou: Extra batteries in your carry-on(notinchecked luggage).
Your charger if you have rechargeablemodels. Aplugadapterifyouare travelingabroad.
�� Helpful Tip: If you notice you are frequently increasing the volume of your hearing aids or the sound becomes distorted, it is a sign that you need to changethebattery.
3. Keep Your Hearing Aids CleanandProtected
Environmental changes (humidity, dust, sweat) can affect the performance of yourhearingaids.Makesure youhavewithyou:
A cleaning kit (brush, cloth,replacementfilters, etc.).
A storage case with padding.
A dehumidifier box for protection against moisture
�� Helpful Tip: Avoid leaving them exposed to heatorsteam
4. Inform Your Companion or TravelPartners
Communicationiskeytoasafeand comfortabletrip.Ifyouaretraveling with company or a companion, make sure they know how to supportyouincaseofneed. Informthemabout:
Possible difficulty hearing in noisyenvironments
How to approach or speak clearlytoyou
What to do if there is a problem withyourhearingaids
5. Use the Smart Features of Your HearingAids
ModernhearingaidsliketheEDGEAI from Starkey feature Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology that providescapabilitiessuchas: Automatic volume adjustment depending on the environment (e.g.,airport,café,ship).
Smart sound recognition and clearerspeechinrealtime.
Connection with apps such as My Starkey for control and personalizationonthego.
�� Helpful Tip: Familiarize yourself with the features of your hearing aidsbeforetraveling
Call now 77772627 for your free hearing consultation and travel briefing
Aries(21March–19April)Your magnetism revolves around mysterious fascination rather than outgoing charm. Intensity appeals in your relationships.Thiscanalsobea time in which you discover untapped resources or talents. It is a good time to work out moneyproblemsorotherissues ofsharingwithapartner.
Taurus(20April–20May)You’re feeling brave, independent,andeagertobegin new projects. There is much initiative now, with personal involvementinnewventuresor undertakings You are striving for independence and freedom of movement in everyday affairs. The key now is not overstatingyourself
Gemini(21May–20June)Youmayenjoykeyopportunity periods that boost your selfconfidence,anddowondersfor youregoandyourrelationships, particularlyifyourrelationships or your own confidence in the way you present yourself to othersisinneedofhealing.New financial initiatives are best avoidedhowever
Cancer ( 21 June – 22 July )Thisisatimewhenyouletloose your softer, receptive side. Romantic matters, as well as pleasure-seeking activities, cometotheforenow Youare more likely to pay closer attention to your physical appearance and mannerisms, aimingtoimproveandenhance yourattractiveness
Leo ( 23 July – 22 August ) - This is an especially introspective cycle during which you have the chance to truly uncover your personal strengths and talents. On a more practical level, you may be dealing with joint finances and shared resources now more than usual. It's time to carve your own path in life.
Virgo (23 August – 22 September )
- You have presence and you project confidence. You are in the position to make an impression on others, and to assert your personal influence beyond its normal boundaries. Spontaneity of expression is what this transit is about. A renewed feeling of confidence is with you now.
Libra (23 September – 22 October) Your disposition is more intellectual than usual now, and self-expression comes easy. You are sharper than usual--more observant, and more inclined to "live in the head". Relationships with siblings, neighbours, classmates, and casual friends may become more prominent in your life now.
Scorpio (23 Oct – 21 November )Enthusiasm and confidence are with you now, and it's easy to tap into your more unique qualities and talents in order to go after what we want. This is a time to do what you can to build trust in your family life and a strong foundation within yourself.
With Manish With Manish
Sagittarius (22 November -21 December) - It's time to do something self-expressive, fun, and creative. You could feel an overwhelming need to pour your heart out to a lover, or a romantic affair reaches some sort of epiphany. There could be a whirlwind of activity surrounding your child or children.
Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) - Your focus is on making contacts and reaching out to others in both social and professional sense. It's a time to turn inner restlessness into fruitful contact with others. The flowing, expressive, and spontaneous energy surrounding you attracts likeminded and hearted people.
Aquarius (20 January – 18 February)
- This month, your focus is on balancing time between your career and your social agenda. You might draw upon your executive ability now. It’s a busy month for business and work; at the same time, socializing and romance also figure prominently. Love matters are mostly easy and amiable.
Pisces (19 February – 20 March)This is time to plant a creative seed-you are inspired with a new project or plan. This is a strong time for romance. Negotiations run smoothly, charm works, and a positive connection can be made with a person of a markedly different background than you.
WHERE'S THE SISTERHOOD GONE?
Let’s be real: when you’re a single woman, people treat you differently.
The invites slow down. The catchups get fewer. Group events morph into couples' things. You used to be part of the crew. Now, you're on the outskirts, almost like your singleness is a social inconvenience and you're often looked upon with pity.
Here’s the thing: I’m not lonely. I’m not sad I’m not pining after someone’s lifestyle. I have a great life, I’m just observing as a writer. And what I’m noticing is that sisterhood, you know the real, honest, show-up-for-each-other sisterhood, often disappears when your life doesn’t follow the expected script.
When my book got published recently and started conversations in literary circles, the group chat got quiet. They knew this was my dream. But there were no congratulations. No likes, No check-ins. Just crickets.
The same women I rooted for through every milestone suddenly had nothing to say. And since we’re speaking honestly, I don’t want your husband or your boyfriend.
If I’m chatting and he’s sitting next to you, please relax. I’m not trying to poach anyone. I’m allowed to exist in the same space without it being a perceived threat. If the idea of an attractive woman being single and confident makes you nervous, that’s something for you to unpack, not me. If I’m talking and he’s sitting next to you, please don’t act like I’m making moves.
I’m not. The assumption is tired and frankly, insulting. I can hold a conversation without it being about scheming. That says more about the dynamic in your relationship than anything about me. Sisterhood isn’t supposed to be conditional. It’s not something that only applies when our lives look the same. Real sisterhood is flexible. It grows with us. It includes the ones who are thriving, the ones who are rebuilding, and the ones who are just doing their own thing.
So where is it? Because I still believe in it but I also believe we need to start being more honest about how often we abandon each other when life paths diverge. Let’s rebuild it without the ego, the insecurity, the silent competition. Let’s choose connection over comparison. Let’s actually show up for each other and not just when it’s convenient or familiar.
Maybe it's time we ask ourselves some hard questions. When did we start measuring each other's worth by relationship status or how closely someone’s life mirrors our own? Since when did success or independence become something to quietly resent instead of celebrate? We don’t talk enough about the subtle ways women can exclude each other—not out of malice, but out of discomfort. And that discomfort is often rooted in insecurity. It’s easier to bond over shared struggles than to sit with someone else’s joy when it highlights something unfulfilled in your own life. But real sisterhood? It doesn’t flinch in the face of difference. It leans in.
To the women who still do that? Thank you. You’re rare. You’re real. And to everyone else, we’re not here to threaten you.
I’m not asking for constant applause or curated support. I’m asking for presence. Reciprocity. The same energy I’ve given you, returned in your own way. Because being left out, overlooked, or quietly iced just because my life took a different route? That’s not sisterhood—that’s silence disguised as maturity.
So, to the women who’ve been left on read, edged out, or made to feel “too much” for simply living fully, keep going. You’re not the problem. And if we want to talk about community, let’s start by making space for all the versions of womanhood that exist because we deserve a seat at the table too.
Autobiography writer
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