There is a strong sense of patriotism working its way through the island of Cyprus. This contagious pride seems to be flourishing overnight with a sudden boom of social media campaigns, working feverishly to restore the island’s credibility. I willingly joined the ‘protest’, creating my own Facebook page titled, “Proudly Cypriot” in an attempt to promote my island, and support the local business scene in Cyprus.
Less than twenty-four hours ago, this community page has attracted a large number of supporters who share a similar vision: promoting Cyprus, supporting local businesses and protecting consumer’s rights.
In order for the campaign to thrive, our united team of ‘protestors’ need to revert to the root of the problem, and alter a mindset that has unfortunately tarnished our reputation as an affordable holiday destination.
Cyprus needs to become more customer-oriented; the belief that one should overcharge the consumer is a thoughtless gesture – a contented customer will generate ongoing business, whereas a disgruntled one will never return.
Unfortunately, only a few businesses have grasped the concept of “competitive pricing;” the majority continue to display inflated rates on their products. This gluttonous approach has encouraged foreign supermarket chains to cast their anchors on our shores, steering the locals from their own home-grown products.
Cyprus relies primarily on tourism. I am delighted to acknowledge that Cypriot hotels offer a high standard of service across the board. But the hotels continue to charge offensive prices to the local community, particularly during the high season; a holiday overseas often works out cheaper than a weekend stay at Ayia Napa – Cyprus’ world-renowned hotspot.
As tourism is a key contributor to our country’s economic growth, wouldn’t it be wise that businesses remain open, especially on Sundays? I was astounded to hear that a large cruise liner docked at the Limassol harbour last Sunday, and its passengers were greeted by a closed shopping centre, less than a mile away.
I am certain that most locals will profess to an overcharged taxi ride from Pafos to Larnaca Airport. A one-hour drive from the west coast to Cyprus’ major airport will cost more than a flight to London, including the airport taxes. And let’s not forget the influx of budget airlines parked on our runways as our own national carrier charges three times the amount for a short flight to Greece.
Granted, things move slower on the “island of love,” but a twelve year discussion for a possible highway linking Pafos and Polis is simply unheard of. One of the comments posted on a sister site, proposed the idea of a train linking all the major towns in Cyprus; a wonderful thought, but highly unlikely.
The multiplying coffee shops dotted around the island have also played their part in exorbitant pricing; a small cup of coffee should not cost more than two Euros; a familiar chain recently presented me with an invoice of fifteen Euros for three cups of coffee. After questioning the exorbitant price, I was provided with a ‘reasonable’ explanation: the fresh cream topping contributed to the escalating price rate.
I was delighted to hear that President Nicos Anastasiades had proposed and accepted a “grooming” of his own salary. This action should encourage other politicians to do the same. Perhaps one should also consider that there are too many politicians in the market; one could easily do the job of three.
Pafos is a small town with a population of approximately seventy thousand. Yet, within the town there are four mayors. I wonder how Boris Johnson, the mayor of London, gets to manage eight million people on his own.
I remain optimistic though that Cyprus has what it takes to revive its local industry. The outcome of the Cypriot bailout was simply unacceptable, but it has managed to unite the nation under one umbrella. People are beginning to question everything, and only reasonable explanations will suffice.
Despite the economic Armageddon, Cyprus remains a favourable destination, boasts an amazing culture, brilliant food, hospitable people, championship golf courses, five star hotels and spa resorts, wonderful beaches and weather.
The “Proudly Cypriot” campaign encourages the nation to buy local products and make use of local services, in an effort to stimulate the local economy and help create jobs. “Proudly Cypriot” also promotes national pride, patriotism and social cohesion. “Like us on Facebook,” and join us in making a difference to this unique part of the world.
Weight for me tomorrow. Paul
Paul Lambis is the author of “Where is Home?” – A journey of hilarious contrasts.
For more information on Paul Lambis, and to order his book online,
visit www.paul-lambis.com
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