Escape to the Continent Season 1 Episode 5 Cyprus (Paphos)

Escape to the Continent season 1 episode 5 takes viewers to the sunny island of Cyprus, specifically the city of Paphos, located on the southwest coast. Host Alistair Appleton guides viewers through the process of two British couples searching for their perfect new home in this Mediterranean paradise.

The first couple, David and Diane, are from Worcestershire, England and have been frequent visitors to Cyprus for many years. Now ready to make a permanent move, they are searching for a home with stunning views and a good-sized outdoor space for them to enjoy the warm weather and entertain their family. Alistair takes them on a tour of several properties, including a villa with a large pool and panoramic sea views, a bungalow with an expansive garden perfect for their planned fruit orchard, and a traditional stone house with a beautiful courtyard. Despite some initial reservations about the upkeep of such a large outdoor space, David and Diane ultimately find their perfect home in a spacious villa with a stunning vista of the sea.

The second couple, Ian and Sue, hail from Devon, England and are hoping to escape the cooler climate of their home country. They have their sights set on a modern condo in a coastal resort, where they can take advantage of a more relaxed pace of life. Alistair shows them several options, including a slick and contemporary apartment with views of the marina, a spacious property with a large balcony and sea views, and a beachfront condo with a unique and striking design. Ultimately, Ian and Sue choose a penthouse apartment with a wraparound terrace and panoramic views of the sea and surrounding countryside.

Throughout the episode, Alistair provides viewers with insights into the history and culture of Paphos, from its ancient Greek and Roman ruins to its modern-day status as a popular tourist destination with a vibrant food and drink scene. We also learn about Cyprus's complex political and geographical situation, as it is located on the boundary between Europe and the Middle East and has a contested history with both Turkey and Greece. In particular, Alistair highlights how the island has been affected by the 1974 Turkish invasion and subsequent division of the island into Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot territories.

Escape to the Continent season 1 episode 5 is a fascinating look at life in a beautiful and complex part of the world. Whether viewers are dreaming of a new life abroad or simply enjoying the chance to explore a new culture from the comfort of their living room, this episode offers plenty of insights and inspiration.