The music of Manos Hadjidakis forms the core of a concert programme planned for 14 August on Anassa’s Armonia Terrace. Hadjidakis is best known for composing the score of the film ‘Never on Sunday’, for which he received an Oscar in 1960. The first half of the programme is devoted to a performance of ‘Giconda’s Smile’, a cycle of twelve instrumental songs for orchestra. Recorded to great acclaim in 1965, ‘Giconda’s Smile’ is inspired by the enigmatic expression of the Mona Lisa as well as the composer’s observation of a solitary woman navigating the crowded streets of New York City. Hadjidakis’s music is notable for its adaptation of Greek folk music and its instrumentation for the classical setting. In the second half of the programme, the chamber orchestra will be joined by singer Doros Demosthenous and pianist Neoklis Neophytides. Demosthenous is a Limassol native who completed vocal training at the National Conservatory of Athens. A specialist in performing the songs of Hadjidakis, he has recorded three albums, maintained a busy concert schedule, and played leading roles in opera and musical theatre. He teams with the charismatic pianist Neoklis Neophytides and the chamber orchestra in performing a unique programme of songs by Hadjidakis and other Greek composers. The arrangements have been specially prepared for this evening. The concert begins at 19:30 and will last for one and a half hours. Enjoy the twilight concert with a beverage from Armonia Bar; a €50 minimum purchase per person applies. Contact Guest Services on 26888000 for reservations.

Known for its underwater caves and craggy outcroppings, Manolis Bay on the Akamas coastline is an inviting stop for snorkelling during a tour of the area. Hire a boat from our beachfront partner, Latchi Watersports, and they will provide you with masks, breathing tubes, and flippers. One of the chief attractions in Manolis Bay is a large family of trumpet fish. These fish are named for their shape—long and tubular—and are known to change colour in adaptation to their environment. Other species prevalent in these waters include the big-eyed squirrel fish, the zebra sea bream (notable for its colourful stripes), and striped blenny. The scorpion fish is spectacular, but don’t touch it—its spines can deliver a very painful poison. Moray eels are typically found near crevices. Watch the sea bottom for flounder—these fish are flat like a pancake and known to hide in the sand. You may see the small sea hare (an underwater slug) crawling on the seabed. Also look for the white-spotted octopus in shallow areas: if you surprise one, it may turn a brighter colour of red as a protective measure against predators. Over the last three years, snorkellers have been able to see lionfish and puffer fish in the area; they likely hitched a ride from the Red Sea through the Suez Canal in a ship’s ballast tank and settled in the warming waters of the Mediterranean. Perhaps they, too, are enjoying the dazzling range of marine life in Manolis Bay.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be the subject of a professional photo shoot? Nikolas Michael knows the feeling well—he has been a professional model for over twenty-five years as well as a noted photographer. Now he is prepared to show you the ins and outs of modelling through Anassa’s bespoke experiences programme. You will begin your session at noon through a consultation with Nik about your goals and styling preferences; bring at least four outfits you would like to wear during the shoot. Next, a beautician from Thalassa Spa will apply make-up to your face and style your hair following Nik’s recommendations. While you are being prepared, Nik will scout out locations and set up his equipment. The afternoon light is best for photography, so expect to start your shoot around 15:00. He will plan the afternoon so that you will have time to change your outfits and adjust your make-up and hairstyle. As he photographs you, he will give advice about poses and facial expressions as he seeks to draw out your desired look. Later, he will review and edit the photos and present you with a selection of the best ones in digital format—perfect for posting on social media. You can also order prints from Nik. As a published author, Nik is able to design and produce a bespoke book of your photographs as a keepsake of your day in front of the camera. Contact Guest Services to arrange your experience.