'We've just fallen in love with the place'
On and on it goes - something about Cyprus - and in my experience Kouklia, just reaches out and grabs people.
Our second year in business in Kouklia has shown just how many people come back again and again.
August in particular has provided a steady stream of repeat visitors to the Village - and it's wonderful to renew friendships and catch up on news of the year gone by.
Many have their favorite Taverna, and again and again we see heartfelt ' hello, welcome back greetings from Taverna Owners. Some make a point of dining at different Tavernas on different evenings but at the shop we are in a quite unique position, because most visitors pass through our door - some on more than one occasion at some stage during their stay.
Some visitors speak of plans to retire to the area in years to come, twice this year already returners came with the news that they had bought property nearby. Some families with children and a holiday property relocate to Kouklia area for the entire summer holidays.
So what is the Kouklia secret ?
First and foremost Cyprus is a great holiday destination which has it all! Sun, Sea - Great places to visit, fantastic food and plenty of it, we drive on the left, and the Cypriot people are most welcoming. -
Within this, Kouklia itself has a secret ingredient, - the co operation of Business owners, the local Council, friendly locals and the ' real feel' of ' Cyprus Culture' in a picturesque Village Square.
Somewhat unusually in Cyprus I'm told, people talk to one another and work together to the greater good of all involved, creating a destination village venue which, once experienced, draws Visitors back again and again.
Kouklia is not ' over developed' thankfully retaining a population which is made up of many more Cypriot Nationals than Ex Patriots.
We don't have bingo nights or pub quizzes blaring screens with football. ( yes there's one on the square, but it's ' low key' and doesn't effect the ambiance of the Village.
This is Cyprus - real Cyprus at play on summer nights - something very special - and once bitten - your'e hooked!!!!