Festive Events 2023

Festive Events 2023

FESTIVE EVENTS 2023

what's on this christmas season?

With many festive events to choose from, Aphroditerentals.com present you two of our favourite; the Cyprus Christmas Villages and the festive programme for the Resort at Aphrodite Hills. One at home, and one away!

CYPRUS CHRISTMAS VILLAGES

Winter is a wonderful time to visit the mountain villages in Cyprus, and the Deputy Ministry of Tourism has given us even more reason to take to these picturesque locations; their ‘Cyprus Christmas Villages‘ programmes. 

The programme includes cultural events, stands with local produce and crafts, food and craft workshops, nature activities and guided village tours, and lots more! This is absolutely the best way to discover the Cypriot Christmas experience.

Participating Villages:
Agros
Deryneia
Fikardou
Kalopanagiotis
Kyperounta
Laiki Geitonia
Lefkara

When?
From November 25th 2023 – January 14th 2024 (inclusive).
Fridays – Sundays, Public Holidays, and daily between 27th December 2023 – 4th January 2024.

aphrodite hills festive programme

Aphrodite Hills will host a full programme of lovely events between Saturday 23rd December 2023 – Monday 1st January 2024.

The schedule includes sporting experiences (have you ever tried Padel Tennis before?), Spa treatments, and the main celebration events:
Christmas Eve Festive Buffet Dinner at the Hotel
Champagne Christmas Day breakfast at the Hotel
Christmas Traditional Lunch Buffet at the Hotel
Christmas Traditional Lunch Buffet at the Golf Clubhouse Restaurant
New Year’s Eve Celebration at the Hotel
New Year’s Eve Celebration at the Golf Clubhouse Restaurant
New Year’s Morning Champagne Breakfast & Brunch at the Hotel
New Year’s Day Lunch Buffet at the Golf Clubhouse Restaurant

For the full schedule of events, and QR code for the event menus, Read the Programme HERE.

aphroditerentals.com wishes you a very merry festive season!

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The information provided by Aphroditerentals.com on this page is correct at the time of publication, and is provided in good faith. Aphroditerentals.com are not liable to any changes to this information and we recommend checking all current operating times and information with each individual facility on the Resort using the contact numbers provided.

Modern Bathrooms – Why are they so Important?

Modern Bathrooms – Why are they so Important?

WHY WE RECOMMEND: MODERN BATHROOMS

THE IMPORTANCE OF MODERN BATHROOMS

It’s the room where we begin and end our days, asides the bedroom. It’s where our hygiene is taken care of, it’s where we have some rare time to ourselves: ladies and gentlemen, the bathroom. The bathroom is often overlooked and given low priority by property owners, but Aphroditerentals.com are here to tell you, as property management experts, why a modern bathroom is so important.

Is it worth investing in a bathroom renovation? What are the gains?:

Improve relaxation and comfort – these days we want to maximise all of our time so that any break we get, even if it’s just a morning shower, is as relaxing as possible. A zen bathroom break can go a long way to enhancing your overall relaxation mode. In addition, a modern bathroom really adds to the overall ‘luxury’ feel to a property, offering a further sense of general comfort and satisfaction in a home.

Improve your sustainability and energy efficiency – consider updating your appliances during a renovation to make your bathrooms more energy efficient; swap the lights to LEDs (they use 75% less energy), swap your flush mechanism to a more environmentally friendly one (low flow, dual flush, pressure-assist). These changes will also lead to a cheaper electricity bill, as well as being good for the planet.

Increase property value – according to research, a renovated bathroom can increase your property value by around 60%; the more modern the look, the more sought-after your property. According to Big Bathroom inspiration, 80% of people in their poll said that they would pay more for a home with a modern bathroom. Bathroom renovations come second only to new kitchen installations in terms of return on investment, sometimes even topping the polls.

Improve rentability of your property – in the last two or so years a modern bathroom has quickly become one of the most frequently requested items on a rental guest wish list when searching for their holiday rental home.

Improve functionality and flow – make more space and place appliances and fixtures exactly where you want them.

Improve storage space – if you want to include modern units with drawers or small cupboards, or inset wall designs for bathroom products.

From a Holiday Rental Property Perspective:

Tracy, our lovely Reservations Manager, tells us “guests frequently list ‘modern bathroom’ as one of their priority requirements when looking for their holiday rental property. Modern bathrooms comes in as one of the top mentioned items of a guest request, together with modern décor and coffee machines. Gas BBQs and, understandably, comfortable beds are also often highlighted”.

When comparing properties with modern/renovated bathrooms, we note the pattern of them booking out first for high season dates, and generating more bookings overall throughout a year. On the flip side, properties with the most tired looking bathrooms are the last to book out and the least likely to enjoy return guest bookings. It’s not just return guest visits that modern bathrooms encourage, but also better reviews – which are so important these days. One thing is clear; guest standards for bathrooms are high, and quite rightly so.

how to upgrade your bathroom

Now that we’ve tackled the ‘why’, let’s tackle the ‘how’. You don’t have to start from scratch, modernising your bathroom can be done at a variety of levels; from a more modest project involving making some small but significant changes, through to a substantial project involving a full refurbishment. It depends on your budget, your goals and your taste. We have outlined some of the smaller, more modest ideas, with some grander suggestions…

Apartment Bathroom renovation example: apartment avdimou u3:

Before
After

View Apartment Avdimou here
Renovation carried out by Aphroditerentals.com

Bathroom Upgrade Vs Bathroom Renovation:

MODEST MODERNISATION:
There are some simple steps that you can take to modernise your bathroom if you don’t have the budget to do a full renovation, such as:

  • Replacing old tiles
  • Updating existing shower doors / tiles
  • Replacing only the fittings that really need replacing: bathtub, shower, toilet and/or sink
  • Replacing showerheads / mixers / tapware
  • Replacing bathroom countertop
  • Replacing or respraying bathroom cabinets / wooden fixtures
  • New light fixtures – suspended ceilings with spotlights, for example.
  • Replacing the mirror with a new one – backlit bathroom mirrors look great, for example.


OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW!:
Let’s go for it! Rip out the old and treat your home to a full bathroom renovation: new floors, new tiles, new sanitary fixtures, countertops, mirror, lighting. First, work out your budget and how much you’re happy to spend on your bathroom investment, then go for it, you wont regret it! Aphroditerentals.com are very experienced in managing bathroom renovations, from design to shopping around for the best supplies, to arranging contractors – we’ve got you covered. Mindful of your budget we work together with you to create the brand-new bathroom you desire.

Villa bathroom renovation example: junior Villa Melandra (BZ01):

Before
After

What's hot?

POPULAR BATHROOM FEATURES:

  • Separate standing shower
  • Neutral colours and contemporary finishes
  • Rainfall shower
  • Minimalist style
  • Tiled flooring
  • Heated towel rail


BATHROOM HINTS:

*Installing large mirrors reflect the room and give the impression of larger space. We love backlit lighting that give mirrors a floating effect.
*Go neutral, and if you’d like to incorporate some colour then do so by introducing other tones in your light fixtures, cabinets or tiles.
*Spotlights create a great ambience, look modern and brighten a bathroom proportionately. They’re also very efficient and cost effective.
*Using the same tiles throughout the whole room give it a contemporary feel, and can create an impression of more space.

Why use a property management company for your bathroom upgade/renovation?

At Aphroditerentals.com we know what rental clients are looking for, what’s popular and what the market trends are, where to source the best quality materials for your budget, which contractors will do the best job for each part of the work required. We have the experience, the knowledge and the creativity to make sure that your bathroom project is tailored to your property, and will be a long lasting investment that will pay off in increased rental income, increased property value or, simply, increased pride in your home.

If your bathroom upgrade/renovation includes installation of new cabinets, showers/baths, power points, wash basins, plumbing; these are big jobs and will require a variety of tradespeople that really know their stuff. We’ve already done the research, we know which contractors to use, and where’s best to source materials from. Using our services:

*Saves you time
*Saves you stress
*Saves you disappointment in quality
*Saves you project managing and chasing up contractors and suppliers
*Saves you managing the budget
*Improves project efficiency

Villa bathroom renovation example: Villa Lara (11):

Before
After

View Villa Lara here
Renovation carried out by Aphroditerentals.com

When is the best time to work on your bathroom project?

Winter. Every time. It’s indoor works so the weather will not affect schedules, and there will be less annoyance to any neighbouring properties if there are any noisy jobs required, particularly if your neighbours rent their property for holiday lets. If you rent your property for holidays then this is the quietest time for bookings so will have the least impact on holiday rental income too.

in conclusion

A dated bathroom can be the biggest disadvantage to a rental property, or to a property for sale on the market, and with some TLC a modern bathroom can really improve your home, in many ways. Homeowners – don’t neglect your bathrooms, you and your property deserve more!

bathroom inspiration

get in touch

If you have any questions about your bathroom renovation, or would like Aphroditerentals.com to give you some inspiration or ideas, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team:

Property Renovations Page

If you would like to talk about how you can renovate your Aphrodite Hills property to the same high quality of Villa Agapi then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Mark for a free consultation:

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The information provided by Aphroditerentals.com on this page is correct at the time of publication, and is provided in good faith. Aphroditerentals.com are not liable to any changes to this information and we recommend checking all current operating times and information with each individual facility on the Resort using the contact numbers provided.

Secret Valley Golf Resort

Secret Valley Golf Resort

SECRET VALLEY GOLF RESORT

PROUD SPONSORS

Our admiration of the fantastic golf course and Golf Clubhouse Restaurant facilities at our neighbours, Secret Valley Golf Resort, have inspired us to become their official corporate sponsors. Secret Valley is a stunning setting for playing a round of golf with friends, colleagues and clients, or for a business lunch on the terrace of the Clubhouse Restaurant. Plus, our office is located overlooking the stunning valley, offering our team the most incredible workplace views.

Set within a valley of striking, ancient rock formations, surrounded by mature trees and stunning flora, Secret Valley Golf Resort really is a hidden gem. Here we present a little information on the facilities, but it is important to highlight that these facilities are brought to life by the welcoming atmosphere that the team offer – they have a warm, friendly approach towards their visitors and members, which really compliments the natural calm of the valley. Whether you’re there for a bit of golf, a meal, or a scenic drink, you’re experience is bound to be a happy one.

Secret Valley Golf course:

The 18 hole course was renovated in 2012 / 2013 and re-opened as a Tony Jacklin signature course in September 2013. It plays to par 71, at a length of 5212 metres, and is one of the most challenging courses on the island. The course is walkable or players can hire an electric trolley or buggy.

The practice facilities include a 300 metre driving range (with 22 covered bays, 2 indoor bays, and 2 large grass tees), practice bunkers, putting, chipping and pitching green. There is also a full time PGA Professional coach available for lessons. The Pro-Shop is well stocked, and staff are really helpful.

Secret Valley Golf Resort Clubhouse Restaurant:

It’s hard to find a terrace that offers a lovelier backdrop for a meal. The Restaurant offers a lovely setting for breakfast, lunch or early dinner, with a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere. The staff are attentive and friendly, offering the perfect 19th hole for a nice, cool beer in the sun. You don’t have to be a golfer to enjoy the restaurant – everyone is welcome and the Sunday Carvery is great!

Events at Secret Valley Golf Resort:

The terrace and function lawn at the Clubhouse restaurant is a popular venue for events such as weddings, christenings, corporate events and more. It is a truly wonderful location, and the team here are super experienced in making sure that events run smoothly, with delightful menu options offered by their culinary experts.

useful information:

Read more:
Golf Courses in Cyprus (featuring Secret Valley Golf Resort)
Eating out in Kouklia (featuring Secret Valley Golf Resort Restaurant)

Properties for sale at secret valley/venus rock

The residential area of Secret Valley Golf Resort is a very sought-after location and offers its residents a peaceful lifestyle, within close proximity of the Golf Resort and just a 20 minute drive from Paphos. Comark Estates lists a number of wonderful Villas For Sale on Secret Valley / Venus Rock residential area. Take a look through their listings HERE.

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The information provided by Aphroditerentals.com on this page is correct at the time of publication, and is provided in good faith. Aphroditerentals.com are not liable to any changes to this information and we recommend checking all current operating times and information with each individual facility on the Resort using the contact numbers provided.

Renovation – Villa Agapi

Renovation – Villa Agapi

RENOVATION – VILLA AGAPI

the story of villa agapi’s Full interior and exterior transformation – 2021

Prior to its re-sale, three bedroom Villa Agapi lacked inspiration. The interiors were dark and lacked character, eluding an atmosphere of indifference. Outside, the old-fashioned, orange terrace tiles were worn and the space was not utilised to maximise areas for outside living.  In 2021 the new, current owners purchased Villa Agapi with a vision to transform the property into a modern, efficient home for full time living. And they employed Aphroditerentals.com to bring their visions to reality.

Our Brief:

Create a contemporary style property that had a Cypriot feel whilst completely modernising everything from top to bottom, and creating new areas for entertaining and relaxing.

Before
After

EXPANDED SPACE

Creation of additional space: we applied for the additional cover to increase the size of the living space, whilst utilising the large front garden and converting that into a private shaded outside living space – a beautiful courtyard. Bi-fold doors were installed  to run the whole length of the living and dining areas, which brightened the interiors as well as opening them up to bring the outside in. With the bi-fold doors open the exterior and interior areas blend to create one vast living space, making the most of the outside living lifestyle which is one of the main highlights of living in a sunny climate.

Living area bi-fold doors facing the outside terrace of Villa Agapi on Aphrodite Hills.

a touch of cyprus

Encorporating traditional Cypriot features by: using stone inside and outside of the villa, creating a beautiful courtyard with decorative metal window grates and gate, and planting traditional Cyprus flora. A large olive tree features in the courtyard, as well as a terracotta Pithari with beautiful bougainvillea.

Courtyard entrance of Villa Agapi - stone walls and window frames, olive tree, pergoda with shade and large wooden front door.

Modernisation

Adding the contemporary: all bathrooms were renovated, each with a particular colour theme and with some cool features added. All the floors were retiled using beautiful, large 1metre tiles. New lighting was installed throughout, including modern spot lights, rear glow mirrors, and up-lighting in the new living area ceilings. Glass balustrades replaced older-style banisters to lighten and modernise the space. The villa was completely refurnished with textiles and furniture that was carefully selected with the owners, sourced here in Cyprus from various trusted suppliers. 

comfort

Comfort and luxury go hand in hand: new underfloor heating was installed throughout the villa, as well as a new VRV air-conditioning unit in the living area and new split air-conditioning units in other rooms. We maximised every nuke and cranny that we could out of the space, where there was barely any in the original layout: a new utility area was created in the basement level, and a previously disregarded basement space was upgraded to be facilitated as an office. New owner storage spaces were created in spaces had been unutilised. 

lighting and security

Creating atmosphere and safety: lighting was an integral aspect of the renovation and contributes hugely to the look, feel and ambience that the villa now enjoys. Interior lighting includes modern spot lights, rear glow mirrors, and up-lighting in the new living area ceilings. Outside, we up-lit the whole garden with signature lighting in archways and making a feature of the olive trees. This was done whilst ensuring that the property was sound on a security perspective, with CCTV and sensor lighting installed throughout, and, of course, an alarm system.

Corner of Bathroom in Villa Agapi on Aphrodite Hills; stone wall, rear lit mirror and contemporary light fixtures.

outside overhaul

Optimising outside space to enhance a sunny Cypriot lifestyle: the outside space around the pool was increased significantly, the terrace was completely retiled, drainage improved and shading installed. The new owners are social and enjoy entertaining guests, so a large entertainment space with built-in catering-grade facilities was created, and has been thoroughly enjoyed since moving in. In addition, a complete pool renovation was undergone: we converted it from a skimmer pool to an overflow pool, retiled it and installed new stairs and lighting. Not to mention, it was dog-proofed for the owners pets who were also due to move in!

Outside terrace at Villa Agapi, entertainment area with bar lined with bar stools, and pergoda shading.
Front of villa building from corner of poolside terrace, showing overflow pool in foreground, and blue skies in background.

efficiency

Energy conscious: to top it off we then made the villa very energy efficient by installing a Photovoltaic system on the roof and on the new car parking pergola. We also installed new double glazed windows which vastly improved the thermal qualities of the house.

Property Renovations Page

If you would like to talk about how you can renovate your Aphrodite Hills property to the same high quality of Villa Agapi then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Mark for a free consultation:

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The information provided by Aphroditerentals.com on this page is correct at the time of publication, and is provided in good faith. Aphroditerentals.com are not liable to any changes to this information and we recommend checking all current operating times and information with each individual facility on the Resort using the contact numbers provided.

Why We Recommend: Photovoltaics

Why We Recommend: Photovoltaics

Why We Recommend: Photovoltaics

Photovoltaic panels on Villa 2 generated over €2,000 of electricity between August – December 2022.

Photovoltaics: good for the environment

Photovoltaics: good for the environment, good for your bills

With energy prices rising exponentially it is more beneficial than ever to consider sustainable energy sources alongside traditional methods of energy production. It is dismissive for us not to consider our carbon footprint in the world nowadays too – we are all well educated in the positive impact that renewable energy has on the environment, and in a country like Cyprus that benefits from around 300 days a year of sunshine, photovoltaics are not only an option, but an obvious and responsible choice.

How do photovoltaics work?

“Here comes the science bit”: When the sun light energy strikes a solar cell, the energy is absorbed by the photovoltaic cells in the panel and electrons are knocked loose from the atoms in the semiconductor material. The electrical conductors are attached to the positive and negative sides which forms an electrical circuit and these electrons are captured in the form of an electric current, and the energy creates electrical charges that move in response to this internal electrical field in the cell – causing electricity to flow.

What is the difference between photovoltaic panels and solar panels?

Quite simply, photovoltaic panels produce electricity, while solar thermal systems produce heat. Photovoltaics is the conversion of light into electricity whilst solar panels convert solar radiation into heat. Solar panels are the ideal way to produce hot water, as this can be stored for later use which is really energy efficient – most solar thermal systems have hot water storage tanks that store heated water until needed. We highly recommend making use of both systems.

Is the investment in photovoltaic panels worthwhile?

Solar installations have risen by around 45% in the UK last three years, as home owners start to realise the return on their investments into renewable energy. The initial cost of installation may be high, but solar panels can cut up to 90% off energy bills, so the return is quickly evened out and the long term savings are a no-brainer. Read some more UK-based statistics for a general opinion piece  on expertreviews.co.uk. If the UK see the benefits of investing in solar energy, then you can imagine how much more efficient the panels are in sunny Cyprus.

Moreover, there is a Solar Government Incentive in place in Cyprus that has been in place for 10 years, and according to a recent Stockwatch article (January 2023) the Government inted to continue and enhance the programme that was originally set to finish at the end of 2022. This grant scheme is for the thermal insulation of roofs and installation of photovoltaic systems – a subsidy of funds to assist home owners with installation costs, as part of the ‘Cyprus-Tomorrow’ Recovery and Sustainability Plan. There is also net metering in place in Cyprus which translates to money ‘back’ for excess energy produced that goes back into the Utility Grid – read more.  

Solar photovoltaic panels can also increase the value of your property, and very importantly, the investment in the planet is more than worthwhile.

It doesn't cost the world to save the planet" - Professor Ottmar Edenhoffer

If you would like to learn more about installation costs and logistics for you Aphrodite Hills property then please don’t hesitate to Get In Touch.

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The information provided by Aphroditerentals.com on this page is correct at the time of publication, and is provided in good faith. Aphroditerentals.com are not liable to any changes to this information and we recommend checking all current operating times and information with each individual facility on the Resort using the contact numbers provided.