Cyprus Christmas food shopping query

by Jenny
(West Sussex. UK)

Your site has been very helpful and made our first stay in Cyprus probably far more enjoyable because of the useful information that we picked up from you. We stayed in Tala in August 2008 and are now coming back (again self-catering in Tala) to experience Christmas and New Year, arriving on the 19th.

My questions may seem a little daft! We plan to eat out and also eat in. (and are hoping that Stamna in Tala will be open and have his open fire burning!!) Although I don't want to prepare a banquet, (if restaurants outside Paphos hotels are the only option on Christmas Day) a token Christmas Dinner will be on the cards.

1. Are turkeys readily available in supermarkets or butchers?
2. I noted many british brands in the supermarkets. Could I get hold of a Christmas pudding or would it be better to pack one!!!?
3. I cannot quite get to grips with the seasonality of fruit and veg in Cyprus as the seasons are much longer and the climate more extreme. What sort of fruit and veg am I likely to find in the shops in December as I want to cook with the season when we are over?
4. Will Latchi and Polis still be 'alive' in December or is everything shut for the season? We loved our trips up there and I would hope to be able to look at the sea and drink coffee.

Speaking of coffee, I have sent you a couple of cups. Keep going with the newsletter please; I love getting it as it brings a little Cyprus back into our lives when we least expect it! I knew when we left last time it would not be our only visit, and I think our December trip will be the start of a few more!!

Warm wishes and thanks in advance
Jenny