0:00:02 > 0:00:05This medieval castle has been besieged, destroyed, rebuilt,
0:00:05 > 0:00:09and occupied by four separate nations, including the British.
0:00:09 > 0:00:13Find out where it is and what country I'm in, in just a moment.
0:00:34 > 0:00:37Today we're helping a Yorkshire couple who are committed
0:00:37 > 0:00:39to starting a new life abroad.
0:00:41 > 0:00:44And they're blown away by the local landscape.
0:00:44 > 0:00:46- How can you describe that? - It's incredible, isn't it?
0:00:47 > 0:00:52But will they see the wood for the trees? Instant reaction...
0:00:52 > 0:00:53You can't really see anything.
0:00:55 > 0:00:57Welcome to Escape To The Continent.
0:00:57 > 0:01:02I'm in Cyprus, and the history of this island is pretty much reflected
0:01:02 > 0:01:06here in Paphos Castle, which is located to the west of the country.
0:01:06 > 0:01:07In the 13th century,
0:01:07 > 0:01:10it was completely destroyed by an earthquake.
0:01:10 > 0:01:12The French then arrived and rebuilt it,
0:01:12 > 0:01:15only for it to be destroyed by the invading Venetians.
0:01:15 > 0:01:18But, the building I'm standing on today was erected by the Turks
0:01:18 > 0:01:21who used it as a prison, and then, during British rule,
0:01:21 > 0:01:23it was used as a salt cellar.
0:01:23 > 0:01:27Today, Paphos Castle is the embodiment of Cyprus' turbulent
0:01:27 > 0:01:29and fascinating history.
0:01:31 > 0:01:34Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea,
0:01:34 > 0:01:38tucked in the Eastern Med between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
0:01:38 > 0:01:41The city and region of Paphos lies to the southwest,
0:01:41 > 0:01:45sheltered by the peaks of the Troodos Mountains.
0:01:45 > 0:01:47This is an ancient land.
0:01:47 > 0:01:51Its history is shaped by a rich mix of cultures and mystical stories.
0:01:51 > 0:01:54Aphrodite, the goddess of love, allegedly emerged
0:01:54 > 0:01:58from the foaming sea at the rock formations of Petra tou Romiou.
0:01:59 > 0:02:04The mythological theme continues in Paphos town's archaeological park.
0:02:04 > 0:02:08Today, the northwest coast holds perhaps the greatest spectacle.
0:02:08 > 0:02:11Lara Bay is one of the few sea turtles nesting sites
0:02:11 > 0:02:15in the Mediterranean, where up to 6,000 hatchlings
0:02:15 > 0:02:19start their arduous journey of discovery in the summer months.
0:02:19 > 0:02:21Inland, this region is a farming community.
0:02:21 > 0:02:24Traditional stone villages, such as Omodos,
0:02:24 > 0:02:28nestle in the terraced vineyards before this fertile landscape
0:02:28 > 0:02:32gives way to the awe-inspiring Troodos Mountains.
0:02:32 > 0:02:35Decades of British rule have also left a lasting impression,
0:02:35 > 0:02:39where you drive on the left whilst explain the scenic region.
0:02:39 > 0:02:43It's little wonder that thousands of Britons have chosen the Paphos area
0:02:43 > 0:02:45for the next chapter of their lives.
0:02:48 > 0:02:52So, let's meet our buyers and find out what it is they're after.
0:02:52 > 0:02:56Today's buyers are Brian from Bradford and Evie from Wakefield.
0:02:56 > 0:02:59Our Yorkshire pair have been together for just six months,
0:02:59 > 0:03:01having met through an online dating site,
0:03:01 > 0:03:03and for them it was love at first click.
0:03:03 > 0:03:06I knew that it was going to be good even before I met you.
0:03:06 > 0:03:08I know you're not supposed to say things like that,
0:03:08 > 0:03:10- but I did know that. - Yeah, I can write a good e-mail.
0:03:12 > 0:03:16But, for ex-health care lecturer Brian, this wasn't a chance meeting.
0:03:16 > 0:03:19During a month-long visit to Cyprus, he said a prayer to Aphrodite,
0:03:19 > 0:03:22the goddess of love, and met Evie on his return.
0:03:22 > 0:03:25So, the island holds a special place in his heart,
0:03:25 > 0:03:28and he's convinced it will allow their love to blossom.
0:03:28 > 0:03:31I think the way our relationship has been so far,
0:03:31 > 0:03:34as with any relationship, it grows and develops,
0:03:34 > 0:03:37and I think to be able to do that somewhere
0:03:37 > 0:03:41where there's a lot more outside living and open space,
0:03:41 > 0:03:43that would be nice.
0:03:43 > 0:03:46Some people might think the idea of moving abroad
0:03:46 > 0:03:49when you've only known someone six months is a bit rash,
0:03:49 > 0:03:53but I feel that when you get to a certain age, you know
0:03:53 > 0:03:56whether something is right or wrong pretty quickly.
0:03:56 > 0:03:59Every step you make is a gamble,
0:03:59 > 0:04:01but as long as you're confident that the odds are stacked
0:04:01 > 0:04:05in your favour before you make the gamble then it's not a problem.
0:04:05 > 0:04:07They certainly feel this move adds up for them
0:04:07 > 0:04:12despite the fact that for ex-nurse, Evie, this would be her first trip.
0:04:12 > 0:04:15I'm quite happy to go, even though I've never been before.
0:04:15 > 0:04:18So, I've got no idea what it's going to be like when I get there.
0:04:18 > 0:04:21Brian's shown me the pictures from when he was out there before,
0:04:21 > 0:04:25and it just does look beautiful.
0:04:25 > 0:04:27I'm used to making new friends in new places
0:04:27 > 0:04:31and I know that the Cypriots are very friendly towards the English people
0:04:31 > 0:04:35that are out there, too, so I don't anticipate that it will be a problem.
0:04:35 > 0:04:39So, how much have they set aside for their property in the Cypriot sun?
0:04:39 > 0:04:42Top end of the budget is £200,000.
0:04:46 > 0:04:48Our buyers have landed in Paphos,
0:04:48 > 0:04:51and we're meeting at the ancient sanctuary of Aphrodite.
0:04:51 > 0:04:54We know Evie is totally smitten with Brian, but will
0:04:54 > 0:04:58the goddess of love help her fall for this beautiful region, too?
0:05:01 > 0:05:05- So, Brian and Evie, welcome to Cyprus.- Hi!- It's gorgeous!
0:05:05 > 0:05:07- It's lovely.- Delightful.
0:05:07 > 0:05:09First of all, why Paphos?
0:05:09 > 0:05:13Well, this is the area I stayed in several months ago.
0:05:13 > 0:05:14Most of Cyprus I haven't seen,
0:05:14 > 0:05:16but I did get to know this area very well.
0:05:16 > 0:05:20- So you landed here and you thought, "This will do."- Yep!
0:05:20 > 0:05:23Well, now I need to know what you're looking for.
0:05:23 > 0:05:26We both prefer older properties with character,
0:05:26 > 0:05:28but I think were quite open minded and flexible.
0:05:28 > 0:05:31Yeah, so, I think for our budget we could get a detached villa.
0:05:31 > 0:05:35And not where there would be lots of villas together,
0:05:35 > 0:05:38a bit more secluded, I think.
0:05:38 > 0:05:41- Number of bedrooms?- It needs to be a minimum of two and two bathrooms.
0:05:41 > 0:05:44- Mm-hmm.- I like a bath. - You like a soak?- I do.- OK.
0:05:44 > 0:05:47Evie would like a pool, but I'm not too bothered about a pool.
0:05:47 > 0:05:50- Why's that?- I can't swim.
0:05:50 > 0:05:52Anything you don't want?
0:05:52 > 0:05:54I don't want a breakfast bar.
0:05:54 > 0:05:57- Everybody raves about them, but I don't like them.- OK, fair enough.
0:05:57 > 0:06:03- What's your budget?- Our budget is £200,000, maybe up to £220,000.
0:06:03 > 0:06:06I think it's a buyers' market at the moment.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10Well, I've got a few houses lined up for you to see. This way, please.
0:06:10 > 0:06:14Brian and Evie are looking to spend up to £200,000,
0:06:14 > 0:06:18although they would stretch that top budget for the perfect home.
0:06:18 > 0:06:21They're after a detached property, preferably with some character,
0:06:21 > 0:06:24and a minimum of two bedrooms and two bathrooms.
0:06:24 > 0:06:28Outside, Evie would love a swimming pool, whilst for Brian,
0:06:28 > 0:06:32exterior living space is essential, and they'd like a secluded location.
0:06:33 > 0:06:37We've got three fantastic Cypriot properties to tempt our buyers.
0:06:37 > 0:06:40The last will be a mystery house, which may not have everything
0:06:40 > 0:06:42they're looking for on paper,
0:06:42 > 0:06:45but could end up taking their search to new heights.
0:06:48 > 0:06:51For our first property, we are heading ten miles northeast from
0:06:51 > 0:06:56Paphos town to the rural communities of upper and lower Stroumpi.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59Many of the villagers work in the vineyards which create
0:06:59 > 0:07:02a beautiful backdrop for country walks.
0:07:02 > 0:07:05Local shops are within easy reach, and there's certainly that feeling
0:07:05 > 0:07:10of a genuine Cypriot community that Brian and Evie seem to be seeking.
0:07:10 > 0:07:13Our first property is tucked away in the upper village.
0:07:15 > 0:07:18- In you come.- Oh, wow.
0:07:19 > 0:07:23- First impressions?- Yes...I love it.
0:07:23 > 0:07:26Yes, it's quiet...character...
0:07:26 > 0:07:28It's over 100 years old
0:07:28 > 0:07:30and all that is original stonework that you can see.
0:07:30 > 0:07:33This is your perfectly enclosed oasis of a garden,
0:07:33 > 0:07:37is the best way I can describe it.
0:07:37 > 0:07:38What do you think, Brian?
0:07:38 > 0:07:42I think the outside space is very appealing.
0:07:42 > 0:07:45- I want to go inside.- Well, let's not keep you hanging then...this way.
0:07:45 > 0:07:47No holding Evie back.
0:07:47 > 0:07:49This beautiful, secluded setting
0:07:49 > 0:07:51seems to have struck a chord with Brian.
0:07:51 > 0:07:55It's fairly compact, but it's full of citrus trees and mature planting,
0:07:55 > 0:07:57and on the far side of the pool,
0:07:57 > 0:08:00there's an attractive tiled sunshade.
0:08:00 > 0:08:04The house itself is on one level, having been converted from a stable
0:08:04 > 0:08:08and grain store, offering it a unique feel that Evie seems to love.
0:08:08 > 0:08:10Straight into the kitchen.
0:08:11 > 0:08:13It's quite a nice long, galley shape here.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15Yes, I like the shape, it's different.
0:08:15 > 0:08:18- It's a quirky shape, isn't it? - Quirky, that's the word.
0:08:18 > 0:08:21Don't look, but there's a little breakfast bar.
0:08:21 > 0:08:24- Oh!- Don't look at it.- It's small... - It's tiny!- You hardly notice it.
0:08:24 > 0:08:28Very English style, is that to your taste?
0:08:28 > 0:08:29I might choose a more modern kitchen,
0:08:29 > 0:08:31but that wouldn't be right in this house.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33But, remember a lot of time you're going to be outside
0:08:33 > 0:08:35and not doing much in the kitchen.
0:08:35 > 0:08:38Off the kitchen, you've got a decent sized double bedroom,
0:08:38 > 0:08:43- lots of built-in storage, and a bathroom.- With a bath!
0:08:43 > 0:08:46- Oh, very good. - You ready to go through there?- Yes.
0:08:46 > 0:08:48I'll lead the way.
0:08:48 > 0:08:52- The living area... - It's nice. Very nice.
0:08:52 > 0:08:56Long, thin room, but that's because it's built in a traditional style.
0:08:56 > 0:09:00Nice high ceilings give it a sense of space.
0:09:00 > 0:09:03Try and envision it without the furniture, though,
0:09:03 > 0:09:05because it's got a lot of big furniture in here.
0:09:05 > 0:09:06I can see a log burner,
0:09:06 > 0:09:10which wasn't on our list, but I would have liked it to have been.
0:09:10 > 0:09:13You might think why would you need a wood burner in Cyprus
0:09:13 > 0:09:15when it's scorching hot?
0:09:15 > 0:09:17In the winter months it does get a bit chilly.
0:09:17 > 0:09:20I can imagine that this room isn't used a lot of the year,
0:09:20 > 0:09:23and maybe it's more of the winter room.
0:09:23 > 0:09:24It's nice.
0:09:24 > 0:09:27Brian and Evie definitely love the character.
0:09:27 > 0:09:30They also seem to appreciate how this traditional build
0:09:30 > 0:09:32deals with the scorching climate.
0:09:32 > 0:09:35To complete the tour, we're heading for the master.
0:09:35 > 0:09:41You've got a shower room to the right, and into the master bedroom.
0:09:41 > 0:09:44- Which is a nice size. - It's a really lovely size.
0:09:44 > 0:09:47It's got something in here that I'm personally very excited by,
0:09:47 > 0:09:50and that's built-in storage. Do you have a lot of stuff?
0:09:50 > 0:09:53We just need T-shirts and shorts here, don't you?
0:09:53 > 0:09:56That's all you need. There is an air conditioning unit
0:09:56 > 0:09:58in here to keep you cool, but there's also this...
0:10:00 > 0:10:04- What a view!- Wow! That's amazing. Lovely.- Magnificent.
0:10:06 > 0:10:08Take a seat.
0:10:08 > 0:10:11- Let's mull it over a little bit. - Mm-hmm.
0:10:11 > 0:10:15So, I would like you both to have a stab at guessing
0:10:15 > 0:10:18what this house is on the market for.
0:10:18 > 0:10:20Brian, we'll start with you.
0:10:20 > 0:10:26Well, it's difficult... but I'd go at £190,000.
0:10:26 > 0:10:29- Evie?- I'm going to go £195,000.
0:10:29 > 0:10:30Brian, you're the closest.
0:10:32 > 0:10:36It's actually on the market for £186,000.
0:10:36 > 0:10:38Well, that's a very good price.
0:10:38 > 0:10:42It's lower than I thought, and I wasn't sure what to think.
0:10:42 > 0:10:45Well, I want to both now to go inside, and take your time.
0:10:45 > 0:10:48Have a look around and mull it over some more between the two of you.
0:10:48 > 0:10:51- OK.- I'll catch up with you in a little bit.- Great, thanks.
0:10:54 > 0:10:57The first property...they like it. I can't quite believe these two.
0:10:57 > 0:11:00They've been together five minutes and they seem to be so in sync,
0:11:00 > 0:11:02but will it stay that way?
0:11:03 > 0:11:06At £14,000 under Brian and Evie's ideal budget,
0:11:06 > 0:11:10our first property is a traditional single-storey house with
0:11:10 > 0:11:12two en-suite bedrooms and a spacious kitchen.
0:11:12 > 0:11:14Outside is a newly built swimming pool,
0:11:14 > 0:11:18and it's all set in a secluded courtyard garden.
0:11:18 > 0:11:21- Hiya.- Hi.- Ready to go?
0:11:21 > 0:11:27- If we must.- You must. I've got lots more to show you.- OK, let's go.
0:11:33 > 0:11:37For our next property, we're heading to the Tala area.
0:11:37 > 0:11:40The community is centred on an attractive square with
0:11:40 > 0:11:42a good mix of shops and cafes.
0:11:42 > 0:11:45Our house is a short stroll away up a peaceful lane.
0:11:46 > 0:11:51So, guys, we're in Tala, the area you know very well, Brian.
0:11:51 > 0:11:53- Yeah, just around the corner from the square.- Exactly.
0:11:53 > 0:11:56And this is the next property...
0:11:56 > 0:11:58The garden looks a little bit tired
0:11:58 > 0:12:01and could do with a little bit of zhoosh.
0:12:01 > 0:12:03It will be interesting to see if the inside is the same.
0:12:05 > 0:12:09- I quite like properties that need a little bit of...- Zhoosh.- Yeah.
0:12:10 > 0:12:13- Well, let's go inside and all will reveal itself.- OK.
0:12:16 > 0:12:19This pretty, detached bungalow was built back in the 1990s,
0:12:19 > 0:12:24but in a traditional style so it has plenty of character.
0:12:24 > 0:12:26But, does the inside need any 'zhooshing'?
0:12:26 > 0:12:30I'll take you straight and... into the kitchen.
0:12:30 > 0:12:37Wow, that's just so different to what I thought from outside.
0:12:37 > 0:12:38I would cook in this kitchen.
0:12:40 > 0:12:41We're buying it!
0:12:43 > 0:12:46- It's got an island. - Yes, not sure about that.
0:12:46 > 0:12:48- That's a dining table. - It's very high.
0:12:48 > 0:12:51It's not a dining table, it's an island, isn't it?
0:12:51 > 0:12:53But, you can't move it, obviously.
0:12:53 > 0:12:56- But, you can actually move this one. - You can?- Yes, you can.
0:12:56 > 0:12:59And this bungalow has a lot more to offer,
0:12:59 > 0:13:01including classic Cypriot stone archways
0:13:01 > 0:13:05which I've been told represent the Mediterranean sun.
0:13:06 > 0:13:09And we don't have to go very far, we'll stop here,
0:13:09 > 0:13:11and you're into your living room.
0:13:11 > 0:13:13This is a good size and it's got a log burner.
0:13:13 > 0:13:17It's not huge, but it's spacious.
0:13:17 > 0:13:21You don't need lots of space because you're outside a lot of the time.
0:13:21 > 0:13:22And there's only us two.
0:13:22 > 0:13:25I can see that your mind's ticking over, Brian.
0:13:25 > 0:13:28Well, we haven't seen it all, so there's more to it obviously.
0:13:28 > 0:13:31There's more rooms, there's more to it...it's nice.
0:13:31 > 0:13:33What does he actually mean?
0:13:33 > 0:13:35He means what he says, and he says what he means.
0:13:37 > 0:13:39I think Brian is reserving judgment for now.
0:13:39 > 0:13:42We'll see what he makes of the rest of the layout as we make
0:13:42 > 0:13:44our way through a useful office area.
0:13:45 > 0:13:49And, very important room, the master bedroom.
0:13:50 > 0:13:53- So, you've got an en-suite shower room.- OK.
0:13:54 > 0:13:59This room is a really nice size. Loads of in-built storage.
0:13:59 > 0:14:02Also, along this little corridor you've got another double bedroom
0:14:02 > 0:14:06at the other end and you've got a really lovely master bathroom.
0:14:06 > 0:14:11- But, again, it's a big shower. - OK, no bath?- No bath.
0:14:11 > 0:14:14You've got a door that leads out onto the terrace.
0:14:14 > 0:14:16What do you make of it, Brian?
0:14:16 > 0:14:19It's very warm in here, but the sun's coming through the window.
0:14:19 > 0:14:21But, I can see there's some shutters there.
0:14:21 > 0:14:24Actually, the shutters cost about 6,000 euros to have installed,
0:14:24 > 0:14:27so that's something that's already been done for you.
0:14:27 > 0:14:31You could almost pluck grapes from that window, couldn't you?
0:14:31 > 0:14:35- If you wanted.- That's not even the best bit...come with me.
0:14:38 > 0:14:42The more practical Brian seems to have warmed up to the interior...
0:14:42 > 0:14:44outside, the bungalow is surrounded
0:14:44 > 0:14:46by a pretty, mature courtyard garden.
0:14:46 > 0:14:49Secret pathways cut through the colourful bougainvillea
0:14:49 > 0:14:52and a variety of citrus trees in this green haven.
0:14:52 > 0:14:56- Who needs a bath when you can have a pool?- That is a lovely looking pool!
0:14:56 > 0:15:01- It is nice, isn't it?- Very nice.- It looks like Cleopatra's bath to me.
0:15:01 > 0:15:02Or, Aphrodite's.
0:15:03 > 0:15:07But, the pool isn't the surprise. Take a look behind you.
0:15:07 > 0:15:11- It's a bit hazy, but what can you see?- Oh, I can see the sea!- You can.
0:15:11 > 0:15:13It's there, all right.
0:15:13 > 0:15:16You could very easily get permission to extend this house.
0:15:16 > 0:15:18It is a very nice house,
0:15:18 > 0:15:20in a really nice location...
0:15:20 > 0:15:25- with a sea view. And what you don't know, is the cost.- Right.
0:15:25 > 0:15:30- Who should we give with, Evie? - It's Brian's turn!- OK, Brian.
0:15:30 > 0:15:35The house itself isn't very large, but it is very near Tala Square
0:15:35 > 0:15:40and I know that put property prices up, so I'd go for £180,000.
0:15:40 > 0:15:41- Evie?- I think it's more than that.
0:15:41 > 0:15:45So, I'm going to go for £200,000...I think it's at the top.
0:15:45 > 0:15:48It's actually on the market for...
0:15:48 > 0:15:52£167,000.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54I think that's good... it's good value for money.
0:15:54 > 0:15:57It's probably my favourite so far.
0:15:57 > 0:16:00- Could you see yourselves living in this house?- Yes.
0:16:00 > 0:16:02- Are you dying to get back in there and run around?- Yes.
0:16:02 > 0:16:05- Go on, off you go, and I'll catch up with you in a bit.- OK.
0:16:06 > 0:16:09This property is more than £30,000 under
0:16:09 > 0:16:11Brian and Evie's ideal budget.
0:16:11 > 0:16:15It's an attractive, detached bungalow offering two bedrooms
0:16:15 > 0:16:16and scope to extend.
0:16:16 > 0:16:18Outside, there's a beautiful swimming pool
0:16:18 > 0:16:21set inside a mature courtyard garden.
0:16:21 > 0:16:22Are you ready to leave?
0:16:22 > 0:16:25- If we have to, yeah.- We've got to move on.- OK.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35Paphos is a striking region popular with ex-pats
0:16:35 > 0:16:38and appreciated by its local people.
0:16:38 > 0:16:41Unfortunately, recent financial pressures have contributed to
0:16:41 > 0:16:45a singular problem... dog abandonment.
0:16:45 > 0:16:48This is a subject close to Evie's heart.
0:16:48 > 0:16:50So, we're heading to the Paws Shelter,
0:16:50 > 0:16:54near Paphos town to meet two British ex-pats who are making
0:16:54 > 0:16:57a real difference to the lives of abandoned hounds.
0:16:57 > 0:16:59- Good to see you, this is Brian, this is Evie.- Hi!
0:16:59 > 0:17:02Kirstie and John have lived here for 18 months
0:17:02 > 0:17:04and they volunteer here at the dog rescue centre.
0:17:04 > 0:17:06- So, I'm going to leave the four of you together.- All right.
0:17:06 > 0:17:09See you soon.
0:17:09 > 0:17:13The shelter has around 60 volunteers and is funded by donations
0:17:13 > 0:17:14and fundraising.
0:17:14 > 0:17:18Many of the dogs will eventually be fostered or adopted locally,
0:17:18 > 0:17:20and thanks to an online presence,
0:17:20 > 0:17:22some will even make it further afield.
0:17:22 > 0:17:27- Ink Spot is going to the UK in November.- Oh, wow. Does he know?
0:17:27 > 0:17:29Oh, I don't think he does yet.
0:17:29 > 0:17:32He'll know a difference in November, that's for certain.
0:17:33 > 0:17:36What sort of roles do you have for volunteers?
0:17:36 > 0:17:39The main role is the cleaning.
0:17:39 > 0:17:41A bit of play time with the dogs,
0:17:41 > 0:17:45and ultimately their priority in the day is feeding.
0:17:45 > 0:17:47There can never be too many volunteers
0:17:47 > 0:17:51because the more volunteers, the more attention the dogs get.
0:17:51 > 0:17:55Really, it's a case of turning up at the shelter, saying,
0:17:55 > 0:17:58"I'm here!" It's quite a social group.
0:17:58 > 0:18:00We've got a nice coffee area and everybody sits down.
0:18:00 > 0:18:03Some days people bring in cakes and that's always nice...
0:18:03 > 0:18:05sit down and have a natter and get to know people.
0:18:05 > 0:18:09So, it seems volunteering would offer a good opportunity
0:18:09 > 0:18:10for Evie to meet new people.
0:18:10 > 0:18:12Having made the move here themselves,
0:18:12 > 0:18:15Kirstie and John have some useful tips on Cypriot life.
0:18:15 > 0:18:19Do you find the cost of living is different here than in the UK?
0:18:19 > 0:18:21If you want imported food, it's expensive.
0:18:21 > 0:18:24If you eat what's grown here, it's cheap.
0:18:24 > 0:18:26What about the heat... how do you cope?
0:18:26 > 0:18:30We sort of treat it a little bit like a winter in the UK.
0:18:30 > 0:18:33Jobs you need to do in the morning, you get everything done quite early
0:18:33 > 0:18:36and you don't spend all day in the sun.
0:18:36 > 0:18:38Do you speak Greek?
0:18:38 > 0:18:39A very small amount.
0:18:39 > 0:18:42English is spoken very freely here, and you try to speak Greek
0:18:42 > 0:18:44and they answer in English. But, it is nice to speak the
0:18:44 > 0:18:47"hellos, goodbyes, thank yous, how are you."
0:18:47 > 0:18:49Those little words go a long way.
0:18:49 > 0:18:54What about the fact that you are foreigners in this land.
0:18:54 > 0:18:57- How do the locals respond to that? - No problems.
0:18:57 > 0:19:00We lived next door to Cypriots. We've got Cypriots around us.
0:19:00 > 0:19:04I've always found them always very friendly, very accommodating.
0:19:04 > 0:19:08Do you think it's a good idea that they're making this decision?
0:19:08 > 0:19:11Do it, because you're at an age where you can enjoy it,
0:19:11 > 0:19:14and if you don't like it, you can go back.
0:19:14 > 0:19:16Some invaluable advice from Kirstie
0:19:16 > 0:19:19and John on what to expect from local life, but there are also
0:19:19 > 0:19:24a few points to bear in mind when purchasing a property in Cyprus.
0:19:24 > 0:19:27A lawyer should ensure that the properties title deeds
0:19:27 > 0:19:29are readily available as proof of ownership
0:19:29 > 0:19:31can be an issue on the island.
0:19:31 > 0:19:35A search should also be carried out for any pre-existing mortgages
0:19:35 > 0:19:36on the property or land.
0:19:36 > 0:19:39Money will need to be put aside for various costs
0:19:39 > 0:19:41including legal transfer and agents' fees.
0:19:41 > 0:19:45These are calculated on a sliding scale but should be
0:19:45 > 0:19:49between 7-16% of the purchased property's price.
0:19:49 > 0:19:51Finally, it may be worth making a separate will
0:19:51 > 0:19:53for any Cypriot assets,
0:19:53 > 0:19:56as inheritance laws are different to those to the UK.
0:19:59 > 0:20:01Another day, another property.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04And today it's time for the mystery house.
0:20:04 > 0:20:07Let's just say they could pick up more than they bargained for.
0:20:07 > 0:20:09And I hope they're into views.
0:20:12 > 0:20:15We're heading further inland towards the Troodos Mountains
0:20:15 > 0:20:18and the peaceful community of Kallepia.
0:20:18 > 0:20:20The village's name is actually derived
0:20:20 > 0:20:24from the Greek work for beauty, and it's not hard to see why.
0:20:24 > 0:20:26This is a traditional rural community
0:20:26 > 0:20:29where locals exchange stories in the coffee shop.
0:20:29 > 0:20:33So, the mystery property's location would offer Brian and Evie
0:20:33 > 0:20:35the immersive experience they're after.
0:20:35 > 0:20:37But as for its unconventional layout,
0:20:37 > 0:20:40they're either going to love it or hate it.
0:20:41 > 0:20:45- And that, my dears, is our property.- Oh!
0:20:46 > 0:20:47What do you think?
0:20:48 > 0:20:51It looks...different.
0:20:51 > 0:20:52What does that mean, Evie?
0:20:53 > 0:20:57- Um, no roof.- No roof.- Flat roof.
0:20:57 > 0:21:00- You've got a pool which is on your list.- Yes.
0:21:00 > 0:21:04You've got a lovely property, and you've got this stunning view.
0:21:04 > 0:21:08Well, the views are very amazing, but we're not looking to buy a view,
0:21:08 > 0:21:11we're looking to buy a house we can live in.
0:21:11 > 0:21:12This way...
0:21:12 > 0:21:14'That wasn't the best of starts,
0:21:14 > 0:21:16'but I'm still quietly confident
0:21:16 > 0:21:18'as we head past this appealing one-bedroom villa
0:21:18 > 0:21:20'which has a shower room and a shaded veranda.
0:21:20 > 0:21:23'But there's more to this property than meets the eye.'
0:21:23 > 0:21:25I'm very confused.
0:21:25 > 0:21:30The view goes on! And this is the house you'd live in.
0:21:30 > 0:21:31What's that then?
0:21:31 > 0:21:33- That's your house.- The garden shed?
0:21:33 > 0:21:36You know you said you wanted space...
0:21:36 > 0:21:38this is actually two properties.
0:21:38 > 0:21:40So, that one you could use as a rental,
0:21:40 > 0:21:45for family and friends, whatever you want. This is the one you'd live in.
0:21:45 > 0:21:49- This is the real one.- This house certainly looks more interesting.
0:21:49 > 0:21:52Let's hope it looks as good inside.
0:21:52 > 0:21:54They look a bit bewildered,
0:21:54 > 0:21:56but I think the cogs are definitely turning,
0:21:56 > 0:21:59and I'm pretty sure the recently renovated interior
0:21:59 > 0:22:00will make a good impression.
0:22:02 > 0:22:05And in you come... to the kitchen!
0:22:06 > 0:22:10Look at the view out the window.
0:22:10 > 0:22:12The kitchen is sorted.
0:22:12 > 0:22:16It's clean, it's new, it's done, it's fitted out.
0:22:16 > 0:22:18There's no island and there's no breakfast bar, Evie.
0:22:18 > 0:22:20That's really good, and it's a lovely size.
0:22:20 > 0:22:23I wouldn't change anything at all. Even the colour is nice.
0:22:23 > 0:22:25Brian, can you see yourself cooking in this kitchen?
0:22:25 > 0:22:27Yeah, absolutely. No problem.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29Just as long as I'm not too distracted by the views
0:22:29 > 0:22:33all the time. Is it better than Yorkshire then, the views?
0:22:33 > 0:22:36It's not better, it's different.
0:22:36 > 0:22:38I think Brian's testing the water there,
0:22:38 > 0:22:40but maybe Evie really will forget about Yorkshire
0:22:40 > 0:22:42when she sees the view from the living room.
0:22:42 > 0:22:44- Log fire.- Yeah, it's lovely.
0:22:44 > 0:22:46And how about that?
0:22:49 > 0:22:52Can't say...how can you describe that?
0:22:52 > 0:22:54It's incredible, isn't it?
0:22:54 > 0:22:57- It's awesome.- Yeah, that's a big view through two big windows.
0:22:57 > 0:23:01Just draw your attention to the Cypriot archway,
0:23:01 > 0:23:04traditional stone that will keep it nice and cool.
0:23:04 > 0:23:05You've got the beams...
0:23:05 > 0:23:08Reminds you a little bit of Yorkshire houses.
0:23:08 > 0:23:11Gosh it sounds like I'm really hankering for Yorkshire.
0:23:11 > 0:23:13Despite another mention of home,
0:23:13 > 0:23:17this traditional property seems to be growing on Evie and Brian.
0:23:17 > 0:23:19I'm hoping they'll love the character.
0:23:20 > 0:23:22The master bedroom...
0:23:22 > 0:23:23the only bedroom.
0:23:23 > 0:23:29Huge, high ceiling, spectacular view, loads of storage.
0:23:30 > 0:23:32- I mean, it's a decent double. - It's a good size.
0:23:32 > 0:23:36Of course there's the other house that comes with this,
0:23:36 > 0:23:39so it's not really just one bedroom.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43Well, there's something else I want to show you, particularly you, Evie.
0:23:43 > 0:23:44This way.
0:23:48 > 0:23:53- I wanted to show you this, Evie.- OK. - Look at this.- Oh, wow!
0:23:53 > 0:23:59- Bath for you, and a beautiful shower.- Can I be a bit negative?
0:23:59 > 0:24:02- You can.- There's no window in here, so there's no view.
0:24:02 > 0:24:05I'd love to have a view while I'm in the bath.
0:24:05 > 0:24:09We'll move the bath then...put it in the front room.
0:24:09 > 0:24:12There is nothing that man wouldn't do for love.
0:24:12 > 0:24:14I actually think the combined outside space
0:24:14 > 0:24:17of the two properties could suit them well.
0:24:17 > 0:24:20It's full of separate areas, including a sloped bed dotted
0:24:20 > 0:24:25with various cacti, and a rustic pergola smothered in grape vines.
0:24:25 > 0:24:27Time to see what they make of it all.
0:24:27 > 0:24:29What do you think overall? You've had a good look around.
0:24:29 > 0:24:31What do you make of it?
0:24:31 > 0:24:35I just think it's really incredible, and what's really nice is...
0:24:35 > 0:24:39if I get bored of this house, I can go and sleep in that one!
0:24:39 > 0:24:42So, what you don't know is the price.
0:24:42 > 0:24:44I think it's over budget.
0:24:44 > 0:24:47So, I'm going to say...
0:24:47 > 0:24:49£250,000.
0:24:49 > 0:24:53- Brian.- I would say £230,000. - You're both wrong.
0:24:55 > 0:24:59It's actually right on the nose...
0:24:59 > 0:25:01£200,000.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04Oh, could we make an offer for just one of the properties?
0:25:04 > 0:25:07You're better off putting an offer in for both.
0:25:07 > 0:25:10What's going through my mind is that that is an income.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13I think it's nice if you've got people coming to stay,
0:25:13 > 0:25:15they've kind of got their own separate part.
0:25:15 > 0:25:17We'd only charge them 40 euros a day.
0:25:20 > 0:25:24Our mystery property offers up two separate one-bedroom houses.
0:25:24 > 0:25:26The first has good letting potential,
0:25:26 > 0:25:30whilst the second is awash with traditional character.
0:25:30 > 0:25:33Outside, there's a modern swimming pool overlooking those
0:25:33 > 0:25:35spectacular countryside views.
0:25:35 > 0:25:39Right, I've really confused you now, haven't I?
0:25:40 > 0:25:43- Yeah.- Very confusing.- Is there a division in the ranks as well?
0:25:43 > 0:25:48Not a division, just a shared quandary maybe.
0:25:48 > 0:25:50That's all right, we've got time to think about it.
0:25:50 > 0:25:53- Are you ready to leave the view? - Yes.- Right.
0:25:53 > 0:25:54Off we go.
0:25:57 > 0:25:59It's not a bad spot, this, is it?
0:25:59 > 0:26:00- It's beautiful.- It's very nice.
0:26:00 > 0:26:02Your second time here, Brian.
0:26:02 > 0:26:06- Evie, your first time in Cyprus, do you still want to move here?- Yes.
0:26:06 > 0:26:09If I could stay here now, I would stay here now and not even go back.
0:26:09 > 0:26:11But, you're only going to be able to move here properly
0:26:11 > 0:26:14when you've found the home that you want to live in.
0:26:14 > 0:26:15Now, I've shown you a few.
0:26:15 > 0:26:17I'd like to know what you're thinking.
0:26:17 > 0:26:20I thought they were all really nice places.
0:26:20 > 0:26:21They all had a lot going for them.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24Some had some little disadvantages...
0:26:24 > 0:26:28I could live in all of them, but I want to find the house that
0:26:28 > 0:26:31I feel the same as how I feel about Brian.
0:26:31 > 0:26:32I went to fall in love with the house,
0:26:32 > 0:26:34and I really think the last house...
0:26:34 > 0:26:40it had such amazing views, but for me it just lacked something.
0:26:40 > 0:26:43If you had to move into one of them, which one would it be?
0:26:43 > 0:26:45I think it would be the one in Tala.
0:26:45 > 0:26:47The house that was inside the garden.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50That was pretty good and pretty close to what we want,
0:26:50 > 0:26:53but it's going to be a forever home. We're not moving from this home.
0:26:53 > 0:26:57It's just got to be the one that is just right.
0:26:57 > 0:26:59Obviously I'm slightly disappointed.
0:26:59 > 0:27:01I thought the Tala house was the one for you guys.
0:27:01 > 0:27:05We may not have found the property that we'd like,
0:27:05 > 0:27:09but we've definitely found the island where we'll be.
0:27:09 > 0:27:12Well, it's been an absolute pleasure to spend this time in Cyprus
0:27:12 > 0:27:13with you and show you those properties,
0:27:13 > 0:27:15and I wish you all the best, I really do.
0:27:15 > 0:27:19- Long may your love blossom!- Aww.
0:27:19 > 0:27:21- Cheers.- Cheers.
0:27:26 > 0:27:29Brian and Evie, they've found the perfect life partner,
0:27:29 > 0:27:32they've found the perfect island they'd like to live on,
0:27:32 > 0:27:35and now they're looking for the perfect home.
0:27:35 > 0:27:38I'm still not convinced they know exactly what they're
0:27:38 > 0:27:40looking for, but I'm sure they'll find it,
0:27:40 > 0:27:42just as they did each other.
0:27:42 > 0:27:45Join me next time for another Escape To The Continent.
0:27:46 > 0:27:49Brian and Evie are now putting Brian's house on the market
0:27:49 > 0:27:52so they can increase their Cypriot budget, and will be visiting
0:27:52 > 0:27:56the island in the next few weeks to view more properties.
0:27:56 > 0:27:59If you wish to escape to the continent and would like our help,
0:27:59 > 0:28:04please apply online at bbc.co.uk/beonashow