Seahorse Issue 7

TASTE | DREAM | ENJOY
The St Raphael Resort Magazine | ISSUE 7 | 2017

Inside
10
18
5 Welcome to Seahorse
Welcome message from the Managing
Director
6 From us to our valued guests
Welcome message from the General
Manager
8 What’s new at St. Raphael?
From Restaurants to Services and
everything in between
10 5 useful cooking tips
From our 5-Star Chef
12 The perfect
3-course meal
At Sailor’s Rest Restaurant
20 Sea Breeze Yoga
At St. Raphael Gardens
22 Ancient Greek Massage
At Serenity Spa
24 Art is not what you see
But what you make others see…
by Marina Rafael
28 Fyti Village
A secret paradise in Paphos
32 Fashion News
And Hair Tattoos
38 Meet the St Raphael
team leaders
14 Tastes of Cyprus
In a wine glass
40 Be a Happy bee
At our Kid’s Club
30
16 Crest Watersports
At St. Raphael Resort
18 We are celebrating...
The 30th Anniversary of the Marina
42 The Orthodox Church
survives
By Mrs Bernice Gregoriou
44 Moments with celebrities
At the St Raphael Resort
Luxury living
combined with a
Five Star Resort
40
E-mail: info@thetowerlimassol.com, Website: www.thetowerlimassol.com
Copyright © 2017 St Raphael Resort
All materials within this magazine are protected by
copyright. No part of this magazine may be reproduced
without the publishers permission. Whilst the greatest
care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information
in this publication at the time of going to press,
neither the Design Direction nor the St. Raphael Resort
can accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.
The magazine title “Seahorse” is copyright of the St.
Raphael Resort.
P.O. Box 51064, 3594 Limassol, Cyprus
E-mail: reservations@raphael.com.cy
Tel: (+357) 25 834 200
Fax: (+357) 25 636 394
Design Direction: D-Zine Visual Arts
Printed by: Laser Graphics Ltd
Cover photo by Elias Elia
www.raphael.com.cy
3

Welcome to
Mrs Farah Shammas
Managing Director
Dear Valued Guests, Partners and Friends,
It is with great pride that we welcome you
to the 30th Anniversary edition of our annual
magazine, Seahorse. We hope over the next
few pages to cover not only some of our grand
history, but also to share with you some of our
dreams and aspirations for the future.
This year is especially sentimental for myself,
as it marks the reason why my branch of the
Shammas family moved to Cyprus, in order to
build the hotel (then Sheraton) and the first
private marina in Cyprus.
Talking to many partners and associates over
the past year, I have been sincerely touched by
their words and sentiments when remembering
some of the older times, my family members
and historic moments. Last year 2016,
marked the 30th anniversary of our Marina in
Cyprus and in turn for many, the momentous
beginning of the boating industry and trade in
Limassol and indeed Cyprus. This year brings
with it many similar memories for many locals
and guests alike, as the 30 year anniversary of
the hotel also has many special ties and associations
for people both within the industry and
as hotel guests. Many remember people flocking
to the hotel to see the panoramic elevators
or swim up pool bar back in the late 1980’s.
Over the years, our aim has remained to be
ground breakers in many aspects of the industry,
not just in design concept but also in terms
of facilities, customer care and employee investment.
We believe that the ‘proof is in the
pudding’ so to speak, and are thrilled that we
Kind regards,
Farah Shammas
Managing Director
still have members of our team who have been
with us even before opening, let alone the
many who have been here for over 20, over 15,
over 10 years. Our staff are our greatest asset
and we are proud to call them the St Raphael
Family. We are also extremely proud to welcome
Year after year happy guests returning
for their holidays and watching their families
grow with us.
In 2017, we have a new dream to fulfil after
over two years of careful planning, where we
will begin the construction of The Tower at St
Raphael Resort and Marina in November, which
will be completed by Summer 2019. This 14
Storey High Rise will contain a speciality restaurant,
dedicated lobby lounge, twelve floors
of ultra luxury serviced apartments and a roof
bar with infinity pool. Further details are overleaf,
however needless to say the family are
very excited about this new project and continuing
the legacy of Mr Shukri Hanna Shammas
and his children.
We also have some fantastic plans for the hotel
bedrooms full renovation over the next two
years, not to mention public areas also.
We hope that many of you will share our joy
at the prospect of these projects as we know
many of you share our love for Cyprus and hope
that the island will continue to grow and prosper.
I wish you all a pleasant stay at our award
winning resort and look forward to meeting as
many of you as possible.
5

From us
to our valued guests!
Mr Demetris Demetriou, MA
General Manager
Dear Valued guest,
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to our resort
on this very special occasion, this extraordinary year,
our 30th Anniversary! In 1987, the St Raphael Resort,
Sheraton Hotel at the time, opened for the first time it’s
doors, and has been going from strength to strength ever
since.
Last year’s open air evening restaurant popularity, has
encouraged us to create a lovely outdoor area which we
call Alakati (The Well). Here we serve the traditional Cyprus
dishes, family style, with a twist. Freshly prepared,
open six nights per week, makes this al fresco experience
an utter delight.
Our anniversary coincides with many changes that have
already been completed or are being planned for the
coming two years that will improve your favourite holiday
resort even further. We hope that the changes will
excite and delight you as much as they have us and that
you will find joy in the new experiences we are preparing
for you.
Another addition we are very proud of is our Imperial
floor. These are the 4 rooms and two presidential suites
with the best view in the house. Our Imperial marina view
rooms and Presidential suites are the epitome of luxury,
relaxation and stunning views. Modern design interior,
lush bathrooms laced with all the frills, will delight even
the most demanding and sophisticated traveller.
6
First and foremost, I would like to highlight the changes
that have been materialised during the winter period.
First impressions do count and to this we have freshened
up the lobby area, by revamping the lobby vestibule and
its adjacent terrace. By creating the new corners one
has more options to relax, read their book or paper and
enjoy their drink. We have opened-up the area to emphasise
the grandness of the space and have adorned the
centre with an antique piano, directly imported from and
fully restored in, the UK.
The Captain’s Bar terrace has become the talk of the
town. The magnificent views and the spectacular bar,
certainly live up to the expectations of the best spot
in town. Enjoy a cool drink or an exotic cocktail with
breath-taking views of the sea and our Marina beyond, to
the tunes of our resident band.
With our warmest and most welcoming regards,
St Raphael Resort
Demetris Demetriou, MA
General Manager
Finally, entertainment for the young and young at heart,
has been enhanced to unprecedented heights. A highly
professional, dedicated team, under the wings of our
entertainment manager Craig, are here to take care of
your joy. Magical shows, Musicals, spots activities, Karaoke
nights are but a few of the offerings. Feel free to get
fully involved or just join on occasion to anything that
meets your heart’s desire.
Our plans span over the two years to come as well. We
have decided to add to the Resort an impressive residential
tower. This will be erected at the outskirts of the
Hotel, where the Phoenician restaurant is presently located,
and will be
компания Avanti предоставляет услугу индивидуального
подбора меховых изделий в удобном для вас месте или
VIP-трансфер в наш магазин.
For VIP appointments at your place or transfer to
our store contact with us.
(+357) 253 78 777

Whats new
at St Raphael
We are pleased to anounce that St Raphael Resort is
once again renovating and expanding many areas of
the resort. There are very big plans for 2017, and the
first phase was already completed by March 2017.
Among the many areas under redevelopment,
the Panorama Hall, ever popular between
wedding parties, conferences and special
events is having a facelift with new aluminium
windows, sound proofing, mirrored columns,
granite finishes, new ceiling with improved lighting
fixtures for enhanced atmosphere and special effects
during events, a brand new entrance and
more.
Our main evening restaurant, the Palladium is also
being renovated and expanded with new flooring,
ceiling and windows which overlook the marina and
sea.
Furthermore, we are introducing a brand new dining
experience, the seventh restaurant to our already
large and varied portfolio. ‘Alakati’ outdoor summer
restaurant will be specialised in local flavours and
cuisine, offering the best Cyprus has to offer. Our slo-
the rooms and the bathrooms will be connected to
the bedroom via a glass window which has the possibility
of being screened off for privacy. No effort or
expense is to be spared in these rooms, which are a
prototype for future work planned for the hotel later
on this year.
As usual there are many plans for upgrades to the
back of house, not to mention new guest elevators,
sun loungers, improved animator programmes and
gan ‘ a la Kati, a la Kypriaka’ says it all, while the
entertainment areas, new menus, improvements to
The main lobby of the hotel has been redesigned
into a modern, cosy area that will welcome
guests for morning coffees and afternoon high
teas accompanied by the sounds of live music
from a 18th century grand piano. The new outdoor
terrace and renovated indoor area will be
connected via new doors, bringing the outdoor
Mediterranean into the heart of the hotel.
Perhaps one of the most exciting changes will
be the expansion of the ever popular Captain’s
Terrace, with its stunning views over the private
St Raphael Marina and Mediterranean Sea. The
terrace will feature a new modern bar and will
be over 400m2 of glorious wooden decking with
true translation of the name, the Well, is featured
in the centre of the restaurant in traditional stone
surrounded by crazy paving style stone, village type
flooring. We are sure that our guests will be as excited
as we are about both the food and the fantastic
area currently being prepared.
Moving on to the rooms, we have more exciting news
with the introduction of two Presidential Suites.
These 78m2 Suites will be on the east and west of the
sixth floor and feature free standing bath and shower
area integrating into the large bedroom area with
high tech features such as a projector TV screen in
front of the king size bed. There will be a spacious
entrance room of the suite with its own WC, and the
possibility for both Presidential Suites to connect
with a marina view room making them into luxury
two bedroom suites.
our St Raphael Marina and much more.
We are confident that this first part of our works
planned for this year will be received well by our
guests, travel industry partners and local clients and
are very positive for a successful season with more
amazing projects to follow later on this year.
As we say – ‘Taste, dream, enjoy and
make your stay a memorable one!’
comfortable seating offering guests and locals
the opportunity to relax and enjoy a refreshment
at any of time of day with an unrivalled view of
Limassol bay.
The new Imperial Rooms are set to offer every luxury,
enhancing the beautiful marina views and bringing
the tranquil Mediterranean atmosphere into the
bedrooms. The seahorse motif will be prominent in
8 9

Mr Shukri Hanna Shammas
St Raphael...
our History
In 1981, Shukri Hanna Shammas signed an agreement
with the Republic of Cyprus to build a marina with a
hotel and a 60-room tower. The marina was the first
project, part of the agreement that was implemented
in the summer of 1986 and one year later, in 1987, operated
by the hotel complex, while proceeding with a
management contract with the Sheraton Group.
This was the first and biggest commercial marina not
only in Cyprus but also in the entire Mediterranean region
with 250 yacht berths up to 21 meters long. The
whole project cost about 35 million Cyprus pounds that
were included in foreign direct investment. After the
marina, St Raphael hotel opened in June 1987 by the
Shammas family.
Shukri Hanna Shammas has always been a man with
vision and patience. In 1993, just six years after the
marina operated and just five years after the hotel
opened, he died, but he lived enough to see his vision
materialize. His son, Nizam Shammas, with hard work,
determination and commitment, implemented this
father’s vision and, together, continued development
and reinvestment in the past 30 years.
In 1996, the owners stopped the deal with the Sheraton
Hotel and named the St Raphael Resort Hotel. In 2006,
the new wing with 56 executive and luxury family
rooms was built. This year, it also closes 30 years of
successful operation.
Today, the group employs over 250 people and its
annual turnover exceeds € 14 million. The Shammas
family owns five other hotels in England, Beaulieu Hotel,
Forest Lodge Hotel, Bartley Lodge Hotel, Moorhill
House Hotel and Burley Manor. The four are upgraded
as a three-story country house and the fifth hotel as a
four-star hotel & restaurant. Their location is in the
heart of the New Forest National Park, about an hour
and a half from London.
Our Philosophy
The philosophy of the hotel with a very affordable
economic package can feel the quality and luxury that
every person deserves.
10 11

Our Services
The hotel has a unique location overlooking the marina
and the sea. It has 272 rooms and 90% of its rooms
overlook the sea. It has spacious rooms, 43,000 square
meters of gardens, the award-winning well-known restaurant
at the Sailor’s Rest Lounge Bar, as well as one
of the largest and safest sandy beaches with a blue
flag. It also offers the choice of the Ultra All Inclusive
(full package) of the 5th quality where many families
prefer it. Multiple available Conferences Area of ​up to
500 people.
Trafficability
The hotel receives approximately 30,000 visits from
May to October, with Cypriots holding 20% ​and foreigners
with 80% of visitors.
12

A 5Star Resort
Architect
Interview with Akis Charalambous of akisarchitects
Akis charalambous is the architect behind St Raphael Resort. He is the director of
akisarchitects Ltd and has a commitment to innovative, creative and efficient design that
aspires to the improvement of the built environment.
The architects’s success is rooted in a collaborative approach. Working together with our
clients we bring together architects and civil engineers, with extensive international
experience, providing a comprehensive range of services and professional expertise.
Located in Limassol their offices are situated in an excellent position for running projects
throughout the island as well as the Middle East.
Combining innovative design and leading edge technical knowledge, they strive to
achieve excellence in quality, creativity, and cost performance for all our clients.
How is your signature style aplied in the Resorts Architecture?
It all started by regognising the reality of a hotel
next to the sea and the marina without really interconnecting
with them. Creating openings and visual
“windows” was the first serious intervention towards
the concept of “resort” qualification. Respect of the
natural resources properly valued is an important issue
in my work.
What was your greatest chalenge when you where designing
the Hotel?
The greatest challenge in designing the “annex” , my
first real project within the resort , was to maintain
the eastern sea view of all the existing hotel rooms.
That was achieved by creating 5 new “levels “ under
the lobby / entrance level of the existing hotel. Of
course that was possible because of the natural levels
of the plot and the beach level.
How much did the location influenced the hotels
design?
The natural inclination towards the sea rather than
the location influenced all my interventions within the
resort the latest been the new captain’s terrace with
the impressive shading structure and the extended and
unobstructed sea views and the st. Rafael marina.
What are the GREEN / ENVIROMENTAL aspects
of your design / if any
Limassol has a natural gift from God by having the
best views and the sea on the same direction to the
South and at same time the best sun exposure and natural
western sea breeze. This limits the chances of the
architect “making mistakes” as to how to address his
design concept. All my projects are open to the South
with the addition of green , augmenting the views and
hermetically closed to the North where the lack of sun
is punishing the comforts of the user.
How is Luxury hoter architecture different from commercial
/ residential architecture?
5- Residential architecture is mainly a relationship
between the architect and his client. Hotel architecture
is not only about the personal and professional
achievements of the architect involved but mainly how
the result satisfies the end users been thousands of
hotel clients.
14 15

Global experience, local
expertise in the Funds
Industry
What was your goal when the project started and have
those goals been achived?
Owning property by the beach is the new reality for investors
with the incentives given to the hotel industry
and the new legislation of “hotel condo”. The purchase
of an apartment within a hotel on a long lease gives
the security of a proper return on capital but most
important a properly maintained property without the
problems with co-owners and dealing with common expenses
issues.
What do you see in the hotels future regarding architecture?
High-rise is a new necessity with the new legislation
allowing hotel condo developments within the existing
grounds. High-rise has slowly been accepted as a
reality of the Limassol skyline and the luck of land is
pushing towards more vertical solutions.
KPMG provides comprehensive audit, risk advisory, tax and regulatory services to
fund managers in setting up and operating through Cyprus. Our clients look to us
for leadership and guidance in areas such as: fund set-up and structuring; regulatory
interpretation and support; proactive tax advice; investment acquisitions and due
diligence; fund liquidation, re-domiciliation and/or restructuring.
Our local practice is at the forefront of industry issues, working closely with the
industry and its representatives and actively participating in the firm’s global product
development programmes.
The combination of a strong local practice, with significant professional and industry
experience, along with the global reach of KPMG International fund services network
places us in an optimal position to provide added value service to our clients as they
address the industry challenges, and guide them in grasping opportunities.
For more information please contact:
Christos Vasiliou
Deputy Managing Director
Primary Contact
T: +357 22 209 113
E: cvasiliou@kpmg.com
Marie-Helene Angelides
Senior Associate
Regulatory & Compliance
T: + 357 22 209 227
E: mangelides@kpmg.com
kpmg.com.cy
You can contact akisarchitects ltd at:
Shoukri & Olympion Corner,
Themis Tower, 7th Floor
PO Box 54939, Limassol 3729, Cyprus
Tel: 00 (357) 25 820996
Web. www.akisarchitects.com.cy
16
©2017 KPMG Limited, a Cyprus limited liability company and member of the KPMG network of independent member firms
affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (”KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. All rights reserved.

Discover St Raphael’s
stunning collectionof sister hotels in the
New Forest National Park
With four beautiful country
house hotels, each with their own
individual character and charm
offering wonderful seclusion,
comfortable beds, welcoming bars
and award-winning food choosing
your favourite can be
a difficult task.
Set amongst 90,000 acres of ’adventure playground’
there are beaches for families to play on, ancient
woods for couples to stroll through, heathlands to
cycle or ride across on horseback, golf courses to play
at, rivers to kayak along and country pubs for relaxing
afternoons with friends – everything you need for a
great holiday.
With four beautiful country house hotels, each with
their own individual character and charm offering
wonderful seclusion, comfortable beds, welcoming
bars and award-winning food choosing your favourite
can be a difficult task. Known for the New Forest ponies
that roam freely – spotting deer in the forest or
having to dodge a donkey on the pavement are not
uncommon experiences either.
been awarded for their culinary excellence and are
recognised for serving dishes prepared with care,
understanding and skill.
Each hotel offers something a little different in style
and décor but all provide comfortable beds to sink
into after busy days exploring the surrounding landscapes,
picturesque villages, quirky shops and local
attractions. Guests can enjoy a peaceful night sleep
and wake-up feeling refreshed, ready to start the day
with a traditional New Forest breakfast.
Make the most of your country escape and take a
trip to The Drift Inn, also part of the collection. Located
in the heart of the forest and just a short distance
from the village of Beaulieu, they serve tasty
pub classics and familiar favourites - Ideal for those
New Forest Hotels offer a selection of fantastic
seasonal offers including two nights for the
price of one, inclusive of dinner on both
nights from just £83.50 per person or
three nights for the price of two from £134.01
per person.
Simply quote ‘St Raphael’ and receive 10%
off your next stay and 15% off dining at
New Forest Hotels
There’s plenty to do for kids too with many local chil-
stopping off after a long walk. Feel at home in this
dren’s attractions such as Paultons Park family theme
traditional country pub at the heart of the local com-
park and Marwell Wildlife within easy reach – not for-
munity and sample an array of local ales before set-
getting the miles of New Forest National Park waiting
ting back out.
to be discovered. It’s a dog walker’s paradise with rolling
countryside, moody moors and coastal walks, so
you’re welcome to bring your furry friend too.
If you’d prefer to do a little less, simply sit back and
enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple on the terrace
surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens and
Embracing contemporary British cuisine, discover the
complete tranquillity.
chef’s fresh take on traditional dishes, full of flavour
and prepared simply using quality local ingredients in
a relaxed, stylish setting. Each hotel restaurant has
18 19

Burley Manor
Restaurant and Boutique rooms
one of the UK’s cosiest retreats.
Set in eight acres deep in a quiet corner of the New
Forest, Burley Manor has been recently refurbished and
transformed into a res-taurant with 40 beautiful boutique
rooms, adding a luxury 4 star option for guests.
This Grade II listed building dates back to 1852 and is
set against a stunning natural backdrop in the village
of Burley. It has tranquil views across rolling downs,
sanctuary to a herd of native red deer.
The inspiration for the restaurant is the relaxed way
of life and the simple, stunning dishes of the Mediterranean.
The chefs take the best seasonal ingredients
from the New Forest, the British Isles and beyond and
showcase them simply into vibrant, rustic dishes where
superb ingredients are allowed to sing.
Diver-caught scallops baked in the wood burner with
herbs, chilli and Hampshire watercress. Roasted guinea
fowl stuffed with pro-sciutto di parma, thyme and
Mascarpone. Sea lavender honey and wood-roasted
apricots, amaretto zabaglione. Just three dishes from
the menu.
Strong, nature inspired colours, antique furniture, eccentric
art-work and interesting fabrics create a haven
for guests, a beautiful space to simply relax and feel
at home. From cosy snug rooms that create a wonderful
feeling of warmth to Burley Suite’s which are quite
simply exceptional in offering luxury and peacefulness,
offer-ing gusts a sanctuary to retreat to.
Immerse yourself in relaxation, rejuvenating mind,
body and soul with a selection of Temple Spa treatments
carefully chosen to leave you feeling refreshed.
You’re encouraged to take a little more time out before
or after your treatment in the relaxation room so
you can fully recharge with soothing sounds and calming
aromas. Creat-ing a space to lie back and enjoy
some time to simply just be!
Choose to stay at this boutique beauty for a grown-ups
only break to the New Forest. Offering something truly
unique, it will be a stay full of tasty food, friendly service
and relaxation at its best.
20

the artist inside her proved too strong and she found
The innovative
world …
Filled with a tangible creative spirit, Oria Petropoulou
can be found hard at work in her studio workshop
a short distance from Limassol Castle. It is the ideal
location for her because this part of town colourfully
combines a rich history with a strong fishing tradition
and mixes it with the vibrancy of the coffee shops and
restaurants that lie in the shadow of the castle – and
like the whole island, interwoven with her childhood
memories it gives her plenty of inspiration
Oria was born in the heart of the old town, close to the
old fruit market. From an early age she enjoyed drawing
and painting and loved to visit the island’s ancient
mosaics which triggered her own creativity which was
fuelled by what she learned on an intensive art course
in the United States. Inner conflict followed, as her
creative spirit wrestled with her practical decision to
study hotel management, but eventually the pull of
herself drawing and painting whenever she could and
decided that it was time to follow her heart rather
than her head….
Step into Oria’s
studio workshop and
step into another
world…
You may well find yourself blinking your eyes as you
come in from the bright sunshine because inside is cool
and mellow in comparison, but you will soon see that
you are surrounded by a rich variety of works that reveal
Oria’s dynamic creativity….
She is a dramatic artist who loves to work on a grand
scale. She has been commissioned to make large mosaics
to line hotel swimming pools and last year she created
a huge colourful octopus to decorate the roundabout
close to the old market - and this has already
become a local landmark much-loved by local children!
Oria enjoys tackling challenging projects which trigger
new ideas. She loves creating pieces for her studio but
has undertaken a variety of commissions for hotels,
clinics and local companies as well as private homes.
22 19

Oria likes to create something that extrovertly mixes
and matches the contrasting mediums of mosaic, ceramics
and oil paints and the results are refreshingly
different - simple yet thought-provoking.
Her mosaics are simple studies that accentuate shape
and movement and she uses texture combined with
mosaic work and oil paints to emphasise certain characteristics.
She loves the simple feel of clay and quickly
transforms a piece into a beautiful sculpture that is
then innovatively given life by the addition of dramatically
placed ceramics. The finished piece is stylishly
contemporary yet classically elegant too…but above
all, instantly recognisable as an Oria Creation…
Oria Petropoulou,
the artist and her
work…
Oria was born in the heart of the old town, close to the
old fruit market. From an early age she enjoyed drawing
and painting and loved to visit the island’s ancient
mosaics which triggered her own creativity which was
fuelled by what she learned on an intensive art course
in the United States. Inner conflict followed, as her
creative spirit wrestled with her practical decision to
study hotel management, but eventually the pull of
the artist inside her proved too strong and she found
herself drawing and painting whenever she could and
decided that it was time to follow her heart rather
than her head….
and mellow in comparison, but you will soon see that
you are surrounded by a rich variety of works that reveal
Oria’s dynamic creativity….
She is a dramatic artist and likes to create something
that extrovertly mixes and matches the contrasting
mediums of mosaic, ceramic / sculptures, oil paints
and the results are refreshingly different - simple yet
thought-provoking.
She loves to work on a grand challenging scale commissions
for hotels, public areas, churches clinics, local
companies as well as private homes. Swimming pools,
floors, walls and gardens become alive with unique ceramic
and mosaic pieces. The finished piece is stylishly
contemporary yet classically elegant too…but above
all, instantly recognisable as an Oria Creation…
Oria Petropoulou can be found hard at work in her studio
workshop a short distance from Limassol Castle. It
is the ideal location for her because this part of town
colourfully combines a rich history with a strong fishing
tradition and mixes it with the vibrancy of the coffee
shops and restaurants that lie in the shadow of the
castle – and like the whole island, interwoven with her
childhood memories it gives her plenty of inspiration.
You may well find yourself blinking your eyes as you
come in from the bright sunshine because inside is cool
You can visit Oria’s workshop & studio at the
following address:
Hellados Str., 40, 3014 Limassol
Tel.: +357 25 818 828
E-mail: info@oriap.com
Web. www.oriap.com
24

From left to right
George Kolias Sous Chef
Elias Elia Executive Chef
George Aristidou Sous Chef
The Chef ’s
experience!
available at the resort whilst keeping in mind who your
clientele is and how you can cater to them in the best
way possible. Designing the menu of a restaurant is
somewhat more straightforward as you only have to
think about one theme and target audience.
in many departments including ours and of course it
required a lot of knowledge, effort and patience to
master this new concept.
What is one recipe you would like to have for a special
occation (like the 30 years of the Hotel), for one night
Are there any recipies you kept or improved from the
only, at the hotel and which restaurant would you like
This year is a special year for our Resort!
original menu?
The only recipe we have kept from the original menu
to present / serve it?
We cannot really reveal a lot, but for our 30th anni-
We are celebrating our 30th anniversary
is of course the all time favorite club sandwich and the
versary we plan on celebrating with a marche concept
and one of the best ways to celebrate, is
St Raphael homemade burger.
cocktail event, similar to London’s most well known
street market stalls. The rest you will have to wait and
throught the culinary arts! Our team of
What do you want to add to the menu in the future?
see!
chef ’s is renowned for their expertise and
One of the additions our customers often point out
about our menus is that they would like to see more
their incredible dishes, so this is a great
vegan and super-foods options, which is understand-
opportunity to learn more about them and
able as the healthy foods trend is extremely fast-growing
right now.
how they are experiencing a 5 star Resort!
Any comments from customers about your menus
you want to add?
What is like designing the menus of a 5* resort? How
In 2006, we embraced a completely new business con-
is it different from a restaurant?
cept and became an ultra all-inclusive resort. As one
Designing the menu of a 5-star resort is indeed very
would expect, the transition was difficult and extreme-
different to designing the menu of a restaurant. When
ly challenging as a lot of adjustments had to be made
designing the menu of a 5-star resort you have to think
about all the different restaurant themes and concepts
26 27

Vasa Koilaniou
A unique and special holiday destination
The picturesque village
of Vasa Koilaniou is found
inside a small valley surrounded
by slopes, only 35 km away
from Limassol.
The best way to get to know the village is on foot.
Walk the stone paved narrow streets of Vasa and admire
the traditional architecture of its houses made
of limestone. You will encounter the big main church
of the village which is dedicated to the Annunciation
of the Virgin built in a gothic style at the beginning of
the 20th century. The village features also a number of
chapels such as the Byzantine chapel of Saint George
with its amazing frescoes and outside the village the
small church dedicated to Saint Varnavas, built next to
a cave where the Saint used to live.
The best way to get to
know the village is on foot.
Walk the stone paved
narrow streets of Vasa and
admire the traditional
architecture of its houses
made of limestone.
Vasa has been one of the most important vine-growing
villages of the region for many years now. The Grape
Festival organised every September is the best way to
get to know how wine is made, try some of the tastiest
Cypriot red wines produced in the village, taste traditional
products made of wine must for example “soutziouko”,
“palouze” and “kiofterka”. Have in mind that
Vasa is also home to the Museum of Zivania - a typical
Cypriot drink - and a local winery.
Also, there is an Ecclesiastical Museum, created to
preserve the holy religious treasures of the village.
The place is of great importance, even if you are not
religious, since it is home to amazing pieces of art such
as holy icons from the 14th up to the 16th century and
ecclesiastical equipment made of silver that date back
to the Medieval time. Moreover, on the top of a hill you
will see the Education Museum, a modern museum that
brings into life the history of primary school education
in Cyprus - during the time Cyprus was part of the
Ottoman Empire and later on a British Colony - with
the use of multimedia.
30
31

Limassol Marina
The village offers a range of agrotouristic houses
where you can have an amazing stay. Besides visiting
the museums of Vasa you can enjoy the Dancing Festival
and music nights that take place in the village if
Sea Gallery Villas
you happen to be there in summer time. An activity
you can do all year round is to walk the nature trail
that starts close to the village and enjoy the idyllic
scenery of Vasa.
Vasa Koilaniou may be small but it is for sure a unique
and special holiday destination.
Article by Heart Cyprus
www.HeartCyprus.com,
www.facebook.com/HeartCyprus
8000 50 30
+7 495 643 1901
32

GET A GLIMPSE
of the new Summer trends!
By Marina Avraam
Journalist
www.dolce.com.cy
The most beautiful time of the year
is here again and you can travel
the world of fashion and all the new
trends through the pages of the
magazine you hold in your hands!
ANCIENT KALLOS
The wonderful “Ancient Kallos” can be found in
the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos! Ideas that
literally impress fashionistas all over the world, with
handmade embroidered designs that adorn not just the
sleeves, but also caftans, tops, dresses and trousers,
that uniquely uplift your style and summer excursions.
You can also find and yours in Cyprus, from the amazing
Ammos Resort in Limassol’s Old Port.
At the same time, however, you can also see them at
their shop that opened in Limassol at: 51A Alexander
the Great, Mesa Gitonia, Limassol. Their contact number
is: 00357 96413008
WOODEN LIMITED
EDITION SUN GLASSES
A special project took place a few days ago. Students
from a school in Cyprus were invited to design their
own wooden sunglasses for a limited edition collection
of which 3 designs would be awarded. The 3 winners
saw their designs become a reality by Anjo. The glasses
were presented at a special event at Theocharides
Opticians in Limassol. You can make your own designs
and at the same time make a beautiful donation, because
all the proceeds will be given to charity. These glasses
have impressed even the most demanding people
because they are truly unique!
FLOWER LEATHER BAGS
Did you discovered these unique bags, reminiscent
of true artwork? Diana Ulanova bags are inspired by
the most beautiful flowers that women adore! Roses,
organzas, orchids and so much more, that their
wonderful colors can immediately change our mood.
At the same time, they renew your style uniquely, since
you can keep them from morning till night. Women all
over the world have fallen in love with their uniqueness.
The same will happen with you as soon as you
see them on their website! (dianaulanovabags.com).
PINK AND RED
This season, Pink and Red is a combination that will be
loved! You can use these two colors and complement
the style with accessories in beige shades.
MASK FROM HAVIARI
For this usage, the caviar is not eaten, but it gives
excellent results to the hair! Ask your hairdresser
about this new trend! The main caviar treatment
offers hydration and spectacular hair results!
34 35

This new trend “speaks
for you”. Send your
message, print your
image or your company
logo on the petals of
the flowers.
SPEAKING ROSES
Have you ever imagined that you can send the message
you want by stamping it on favorite tulips or roses?
This new trend “speaks for you”. Send your message,
print your image or your company logo on the petals of
the flowers. This is a trend coming from America and
is now also available in Cyprus exclusively from the
flower shop “Speaking Roses” in Limassol.
In Cyprus you can find them exclusively at 59 Christaki
Kranou Street in Limassol. Contact number: 25 101593
ECOLOGICAL AND EXCELLENT
NAIL VARNISHES
Women love to care for their nails and there are infinite
choices! But a few nail varnishes offer the uniqueness
of the new MO NAILS brand. There are great suggestions
and endless choices in colors for all women.
Their most important feature is that they are ideal for
women who are pregnant or have even have allergy
problems! You can find all their proposals, their plans
and everything you want to know from their page.
Amathus Avenue, P.O. Box 51064, 3594, Limassol - Cyprus
Tel.: +357 25834332, Fax: +357 25636394
spa@raphael.com.cy | www.raphael.com.cy
36
Find us on Facebook | Follow us on Twitter | Read our Reviews on Trip Advisor

N°21
WOMEN MEN KIDS GADGETS

Luxury living
combined with
a Five Star Resort
Elegant Mediterranean Living
Welcome to the most exciting Project at the East
entrance of the cosmopolitan city of Limassol. The
Tower at St Raphael Resort and Marina is set to be a
much sought after address. The choice of 1, 2 or 3
bedroom ultra-luxury apartments is available, all with
breathtaking views over the Mediterranean sea, the
43,000m2 landscaped gardens of the St Raphael Resort
and the beautifully designed private St Raphael
Marina. The Marina is an official port of entry into Cyprus,
allowing you to arrive even by sea directly on
the door step of the Tower. The 14 storey Tower will
consist of 12 floors of apartments rising above a reception
lobby area on the ground floor and a new spectacular
speciality restaurant on the lower level floor. The
Tower will be connected to the award winning Resort
and have direct access to the beach. The apartments
can be fully serviced.
The Project
This eagerly anticipated Project envelops the idea of
private living within a Hotel Resort. It will be an iconic
landmark of Limassol and the first high rise to be
seen upon approaching the city from either the capital
Nicosia or Larnaca International Airport. The Project
is located in one of the most prestigious areas, with
an ancient past, mountainous village backdrops, blue
flag beaches and situated on the coast and next to the
innovative landmarks of the first private marina on the
island, the 237 berth St Raphael Marina, and the 272
bedroom award winning Five Star St Raphael Resort.
Although away from the hustle and bustle of the city,
the city centre is only a 15 minute drive away.
Why Limassol
Limassol is the second largest city in Cyprus with a
cosmopolitan population of approximately 200,000
Residents and is the home to an array of international
firms, banks and shipping companies that have all chosen
Limassol for its attractive qualities. The city is situated
between the two international airports of Cyprus
and less than an hour drive from the capital, Nicosia.
Just 55km from Larnaca International Airport (approximately
30 minutes by car) and only 70km from Pafos
International Airport (approximately 45 minutes away
by car), the city is centrally located and a vibrant hub
for some of the best rated hotels, restaurants, bars,
A vibrant hub for some
of the best rated hotels,
restaurants, bars,
events and shopping
on the island
40
41

events and shopping on the island. The main Casino
in Cyprus has been awarded its license to operate in
Limassol and will be located approximately 20 minute
Reception Concierge
With a dedicated receptionist and concierge service,
the Residents of these luxury apartments along with
An absolute highlight
of receiving guests
at any time of the day
drive from The Tower at St Raphael Resort & Marina.
The Tower is also only approximately 40 minute drive
to three large Golf Courses.
The Roof Garden Terrace
Sure to be the most spectacular spot in Limassol,
this terrace will be exclusively for the Residents and
their select guests. This much desirable location will
include a small dedicated gym, luxury bar, infinity
plunge pool and sunbathing area. This will be the
absolute highlight of receiving guests at any time of
the day and will be sure to impress even the most
travelled and experienced visitor.
their guests, will never be concerned or in need of any
further assistance. Customer care is of utmost importance
and limousine service or Mercedes taxi transfers
are only ever minutes away.
Investing in the future
The Resort and Marina have been owned by the same
family since conception. Strongly believing that Cyprus
has a brilliant future and is a safe haven for many investors,
The Tower at the St Raphael Resort & Marina
will provide not only stunning residences for permanent
living or the perfect holiday home, but should
Residents choose not to use their apartment for their
personal use, there is the potential for it to be let via
The residents will have
everything they need
on their doorstep
Speciality Restaurant
This new restaurant of the Resort is sure to be the talk
of the town, and all Residents will have direct access
the hotel management scheme* in which the Hotel can
undertake to rent a Resident’s property to visitors at a
shared income.
via the elevators or stairwell. Meticulously designed
to suit the concept, this restaurant will be modern culinary
excellence as well as service at its best. The
Residents of the Tower will be awarded priority reservations
and seating arrangements. Private dining or
For more information:
Tel.: +357 25 834200
E-mail: info@thetowerlimassol.com
Website: www.thetowerlimassol.com
room service can also be arranged.
The Tower is set to be completed by Summer 2019
View from the Seventh Floor
*further information upon request. Conditions apply.
42 40 41

When did you start working with the company and
how did you find the job?
AM. I Joined ALLTIME TOURIST COMPLEX in 01/09/84.
GM. I started while the hotel was building during 1984,
I used to work with the company dealing with the Electrical
Installations, and then through them I found the
job in the hotel.
Our Longest Tenured
Employees!
Meet Mrs. Athina Myridaki and Mr. Giorgos
Mapourides, our longest tenured employees. Mrs.
Athina is the St Raphael Marina supervisor and
Mr Giorgos is the Chief Engineer.
How do you feel about the Resort after all this years?
AM. All these years I work with the same company I
want to say that I have worked a lot to be in this position
today. I have learned that with the hard work,
patience and trust that the company has shown me
that nothing is impossible.
GM. I feel very happy with the company and the
owners.
Any funny moments you would like to share with us?
AM. One of the many incidents I remember was when
a customer was trying to get out with his boat and
shouting that they put him in a trap while the boat was
still tied to the jet well do not imagine what happened
that day.
GM. When the hotel Sheraton opened during June
1987, the Air conditioning in the lobby was not cold
enough, so they called the Chief Engineer those days
who was from Norway, when he arrived In the hotel he
was wearing his jacket and he was saying it is not hot
we do not need Air con! (laughs)
Which is your favourite part (place) in the hotel?
AM. A place where I want to be in the afternoons after
work is CAPTAINS BAR overlooking the marina, the endless
blue of the sea and the craft.
GM. First of all is my department area in Basement
(B2), except from that my favourite place is Captain’s
Bar Terrace that was built in 1998.
What is the secret of working at the same Resort
for more than 30 years?
GM. There isn’t any secret, I think the human relation
is the most important for me, to have the right people
next to you in your team and of course the support
from the Shammas family.
What do you see in the Resorts future?
GM. I believe with the right management and now with
the new building “The Tower”, I hope and I wish that
better days will come for the company.
Tell us one thing you would change and one thing you
would keep the same at the resort.
AM.I hope that this company will have an upward
course with strong executives, loyalty to the team who
are not other than the employees because it will keep
its name on the list high and it has been accomplished
so far.
GM. I wouldn’t change the way that I am working all
these years. From my experience thought the years
in this hotel I believe the way I was dealing my job
with the cooperation with the company, the overall
result was successful. So there is no reason to change
something.
Something you would like to say to the owners or any
comment you would like to mention through your experience
all these years?
AM. I would like to say a great thank you to Mr Nizam
Shammas and Said Chammas for the love and confidence
I have shown all these years. I wish God always
to be well with them and their families.
GM. After all these years in this company/hotel and
with the Shammas family the only word I would like
to say to them is a big Thank you for the trust and respect
that showed me. Honestly I feel this family like
my family!
44
45

www.raphael.com.cy
Meet
Mr & Mrs Strangward
How did you choose our hotel the first time and what
made you come back after all this years?
We were searching in the internet hotel in Cyprus
for our vacations, we were looking for a good quality
hotel and the St Raphael ticked all the boxes!
What was the first impresion of our Hotel and do you
remember any stories from your first visits?
Our first impression was Wow! Entering the hotel and
seeing the lovely lobby and the beautiful chandelier,
we knew we made the right choice!
Your dream
wedding…
in cyprus!
What is your favorite season to visit the Hotel
and why?
Our Favourite season are May and September because
of the lovely weather.
What is your favorite room / facility / restaurant of
our Hotel?
Our favourite room is definitely the Admiral Suite
room number 535.
The quiet zone is an amazing idea where we spent
our days relaxing next to the Olive tree.
This is very difficult to answer as all restaurants are
excellent, however the Palladium Restaurant offers a
variety and contrast of different food.
Is there a particular dish OR meal of the day that you
enjoy the most?
There is nothing that we haven’t like but one of our
favourite is the salmon flaky pastry
After returning a few times to the St Raphael we
decided to bring all the family to celebrate my early
retirement. We booked a table at Sailor’s Rest by the
Marina for my retirement dinner. After dinner the
waiter surprised us with a lovely cake “Happy Anniversary”
(laughs) a very funny story to remember!
Do you have any funny anecdotes or happenings you
would like to share with us?
The Internet has improved through the years, the
New Seashells restaurant excellent idea on the beach,
the only negative we can think is when we came with
our family it was a little bit difficult to access the
swimming pool area with the buggy.
We are looking forward to our next visit to see the
new renovated rooms, where we will definitely book
the Presidential Suite!
Members of
46
Amathus Avenue, P.O. Box 51064, 3594 Limassol-Cyprus, Tel: +357 25834200
Fax: +357 25636394 | reservations@raphael.com.cy | www.raphael.com.cy
Find us on Facebook | Follow us on Twitter | Read our Reviews on Trip Advisor

hand-luggage to take home. And I would argue that
was too much trouble and everything was done with
the main factor that influences your experience is how
a smile.
other people interact with you.
To prove my point I’d like you to visualise the following
And then I’d start a conversation
about family!
interactions you had with…
Along with the Italians the Cypriot’s are, in my experi-
• …the cabin crew on your flight here
ence, the most passionate about family and children. I
must have had chats with at least 3 waiting staff about
• …the passport officer at the airport
theirs whilst enjoying the wonderful cuisine the hotel
provides.
By Jonathan Bradshaw
Trainer, motivational speaker
and author
• …the taxi / coach driver
• …the staff on reception here at the hotel
• …the bar staff
• …the room-cleaning staff
• …the pool attendants
So, as you enjoy what this fantastic island and hotel
has to offer I encourage you to be aware of how you
interact with others and, to help you, I’ll leave you
with 3 of my favourite science-backed insights from
my business’s research archive:
1: The presence of a mobile phone when interacting
can have a negative effect on levels of connectivity.*
It’s All
About People
Do you get my point?
What I am getting at is that as social creatures our
people skills – how we connect, interact and commu-
2: People holding a cold glass of water tend to rate
those they are interacting with less positively.**
It was April 1994, I was fresh out of college and to my
surprise (and delight) my new boss was sending me on
my first overseas business trip.
I was off to Cyprus.
I was a pretty late starter when it came to international
travel. I was already 18 when I took my first
flight and, although I’d been to the US for the first
time the previous summer, I recall my youthful incredulity
at the fact that someone was actually paying
for my ticket to go on a plane to a sunny island in the
Mediterranean!
And so my association with Cyprus began.
That initial trip almost 25 years ago provided some
unforgettable memories. Not least of which was me
almost missing my flight as I’d been so excited the
previous night I’d only been asleep 3 hours when my
alarm tried, unsuccessfully, to wake me from my
slumber. As I sped towards Heathrow Airport along
London’s orbital M25 motorway I recall the very real
fear of having to explain to my boss that I had missed
the plane. In the end I was fortunate that Cyprus
Airways’ morning flight was delayed and I made it
safely aboard.
Luckily the rest of the memories that this trip provided
(as well as the 20+ or so that I have enjoyed
since) revolve around sunny weather and wonderfully
friendly people. And it is the latter that I’d like to
dwell on briefly.
Think about your holiday here at the St Raphael Resort
in Cyprus for a moment – what will you take home? A
tan? Some photos? Great memories?
My point is that unlike buying a car, a house or even
a coffee where we receive something tangible for our
money, with a holiday you are buying an experience, a
feeling – something you cannot touch or pack into your
nicate with others – are arguably THE most important
skill that we as humans can develop and that generally
in life – and specifically on holiday – they have a huge
impact on our experience.
What I have been amazed about again and again is the
warmth and friendliness of the Cypriot people and it
is this that I think keeps bringing people back to the
island. One is welcomed with a smile, informality and
tremendous hospitality and nowhere can this be illustrated
more clearly than at the very hotel you are
staying at.
I first stayed at the St Raphael Resort in 2007 and have
been back many times since and, whilst it would be
foolish of me to suggest that the wonderful pools and
shining sun hasn’t had any impact on my positive experience,
the people skills of the staff have certainly
made a huge difference too. When I was over last year
I recall the daily greeting from every member of staff
I would meet on the way down to breakfast. Nothing
3: People are likely to be more co-operative when they
have just drink a coffee.***
Have a fantastic holiday and I hope you enjoy interacting
with not only those whom you are on holiday with
but the staff at this great hotel too. Enjoy the sun!
Jonathan Bradshaw speaks & trains internationally on
Meetology® - the fascinating psychology powering exceptional
people skills. He is Founder & CEO of the
Meetology® Lab and leads the company’s team of behavioural
scientists in collating and sharing behavioural
research relating to how humans connect, interact and
communicate more effectively.
Learn more at www.meetology.com
48 49

The pair had journeyed to Paphos and sought audience
with the Roman Governor in power at that time.
This Roman, Elymas, ordered that Paul, then known
as Saul, should be tied to a pillar and whipped. This
pillar can be seen today on the site of the 40 columns
in Kato Paphos.
is decorated with significant frescoes and the famous
mosaic of Panayia tis Angeloktistis. This elaborate
example of Early Christian Art shows the Virgin Mary
standing while holding the baby Jesus in her left arm;
the Archangel Michael and the Archangel Gabriel stand
on either side of her.
Barnabus and Paul had brought Christianity to the island
of Cyprus. Some 300 years later the Christian Roman
Empire divided – the western half predominantly
following Catholicism while the eastern half came under
the rule of Byzantium, later to become Constantinople.
Cyprus was the south easternmost outpost of
the Byzantine Empire protected by the Akrites – the
defenders of the empire’s boundaries.
By Mrs Bernice Gregoriou
Contributor
A Matter
of Faith
The Byzantine era left its mark on the island and Byzantine
art is strongly in evidence in the Orthodox places
of worship.
The Byzantine frescoes, which still adorn the walls of
some Byzantine churches, were originally intended to
illustrate the Bible for those many poor people who
were unable to read. The Church of Panayia tis Angeloktistis
in the village of Kiti in the Larnaca district
Cries of joy soon turned
to cries of terror
The cries of joy as the Christian refugees finally set
foot on dry land were short lived. They had fled persecution
in Syria travelling in boats across the sea to
Cyprus, possibly landing in Pissouri Bay on the south
coast. However, on their trek inland to seek a safe
haven they were slaughtered by the pagans who then
lived on the island.
Today there exists a shrine housing a large number of
human bones. This cave is on the outskirts of the small
village of Archimandrita, about 10kms (as the crow
flies) from Pissouri, and is open to the public. Could
these bones be the remains of these unfortunate refugees?
Another version of the story holds that these are
the bones of 318 Holy Fathers who settled and later
died in the area. They were Archimandrites – superiors
in the Orthodox Church – hence the present day name
of the village.
Up until the C1st AD polytheism was prevalent on the
island, particularly the cult of Aphrodite as evidenced
by the temples to the goddess of love and fertility.
The most well known of these temples at Paleapaphos
has been excavated and alongside there is a museum,
which is housed in an old Lusignan manor. This was
called La Cavocle and gives its name to the modern
day village of Kouklia. La Cavocle was the headquarters
of the crusaders who were then operating the surrounding
sugar plantations.
In C1st AD the Apostles Barnabus, his cousin Mark and
Paul travelled together on missionary journeys converting
the heathens to Christianity. They came to
Cyprus; it is said that Barnabus was martyred at the
ancient city of Salamis in 61AD. Nearby, there stands
the monastery of St Barnabus in the Famagusta district
– now empty but open to visitors. St Barnabus was the
founder of the Cypriot Orthodox Church and is the patron
saint of the island – his feast day being celebrated
on 11 June.
info@oldportcenter.com
50

St Raphael
Marina
the whole area of the Eastern Mediterranean with the
capacity of 250 berths and taking yachts of up to 21
meters. The whole project cost approximately 35 million
pounds, all of which came from overseas.
Shukri Hanna Shammas was always a man of vision and
patience. He careful chose this area of Limassol to
build his project, and he always told us to wait and
see as this area would flourish to become the most
A Celebration
for the 30 Year
Anniversary of
our Marina!
Last year (2016) the St Raphael Marina celebrated its
30 year anniversary! Following is a brief history of the
Marina, as given by the Managing Director of the St Raphael
Resort, Mrs. farah Shammas, and various photos
of the event.
“In 1981 Mr Shukri Hanna Shammas signed an agreement
with the Republic of Cyprus to build a marina,
hotel and 60 unit condominium. The marina was the
first to open in summer 1986 and was the first and
largest commercial marina not only in Cyprus, but in
desirable area of Limassol. He was of course right.
When speaking during the signing of the contract, he
used a proverb: An old man was planting date trees in
Southern Iraq. He was approached by a young man who
asked him: ‘Do you expect to eat dates from the trees
you are planting?’ and the answer of the old man was
‘They planted and we ate, we plant and they eat’. He
then went on to say that ‘Most business people go for
fast profit, but it is only the farsighted like that old
man who are responsible for progress. A Marina is a
losing project for the first five to ten years but building
one which helps the country progress is farsighted.
We are signing now a contract to build a private
Marina in Cyprus, and that is the first in the eastern
Mediterranean. It is to have 250 berths and will take
boats up to 21 meters as it would have a depth of five
meters at the deeper end. Most Marinas are financed
and built by Governments because of their slow profit
54 55

as investments but we are launching into this one as
a mark of our confidence in this country, Cyprus. We
hope that Cypriots will appreciate that, by granting us
their confidence and collaboration’.
Sadly, my grandfather died in 1993, just six years after
the marina opened and only five years after the opening
of the hotel, but he lived long enough to see this
project begin its journey. H.E. Mr Nadim Dimechkeih,
the Lebanese Ambassador to the UK and USA, said
‘with the death of Shukri Shammas, Lebanon lost one
of its most distinguished citizens’. This year, 2016, for
the American University of Beirut’s 150th anniversary,
Mr Shukri Hanna Shammas was commemorated on the
Beirut promenade as one of the most prevalent men
who studied there and as a business leader. In fact, he
is still the only graduate to hold the record of graduating
the University with five degrees simultaneously.
At his memorial ceremony, Mrs Myrna Bustani said of
him ‘He was a wise man, a generous man, a patient
man. But he was not an ordinary man… With an Eastern
outlook to the West, and a Western outlook to the
East, he was a man of vision, of realistic vision. He
Shukri Shammas was in in the book of ‘Who’s Who for
his many accomplishments which included co-founding
C.A.T. Constructing and Trading Company (one of the
leading contracting and construction organisations in
the world), founding Rabiya residential area in Lebanon,
his bank Banque de L’Industrie et du Travail SAL.
He created scholarship programmes at AUB and was on
the Board of Trustees of AUB for sixteen years.
While Mr Shukri Shammas had the vision, it was his
son, Mr Nizam Shammas, whose hard work, determination
and commitment has seen the vision realised
and executed, along with constant development and
reinvestment over the past 30 years. Therefore on
this special occasion of celebrating the first part of
the 30 year anniversary of our marina, we would like
to raise a glass to the memory of Mr Shukri Hanna
Shammas, to his legacy, wisdom and kindness, and also
for his children, in particular Mr Nizam Shammas, our
Chairman, who have ensured the continuation of this
project in his memory, and now entrusted myself as
Managing Director to continue this progress as part of
the third generation.
was not a dreamer, he was a doer.’
56
47

It has saddened our family greatly that after 30 years
of our continuous support of Cyprus and investment in
these projects, that our Marina’s breakwaters are yet
to be registered at the Land Registry, and there is an
ongoing dispute with the government that appears to
have reached a deadlock. Despite the above, we are
hopeful that the measures being currently taken and
the pressures we have had to assert will push the issue
forward quickly to find a resolution for the benefit of
everyone.
We remain hopeful that the country our family fell
in love with so many years ago, has not completely
changed and that there are still some here who have
the foresight for growth and entrepreneurship so that
we can continue to support with all our efforts the
community and families who have been part of our
team for so long, and that together all of our children
and grandchildren too will reap the benefits that this
generation is sowing.”
Here’s to
another 30
Years for our
Marina!
for the sea!
Looking for a great spot to berth your boat big or small?
St Raphael Marina is just the right place! We offer a safe and welcoming environment in which to leave your boat.
For our new price list, check our website.
BOOK YOUR MARINA BERTH BY GETTING IN TOUCH WITH US
St Raphael Marina, P.O. Box 51933, 3509 Limassol, Cyprus, Tel: +357 25 834255, Fax: +357 25 635208
E-mail: marina@raphael.com.cy, Website: www.raphael.com.cy/straphaelmarina
58

OFFICIAL CORNER IN CYPRUS
Nicosia: 77A Arch. Makarios III Avenue, Tel. +357 2237 4070
Limassol: Olympic Residence Complex, 28th October Street, Tel. +357 2558 2777
www.tiffany-boutique.com
TiffanyBoutiqueCyprus
tiffanyboutiquecy