With a wealth of beaches to choose from, you’re bound to find one that suits your taste. From the quiet backwaters of the western peninsula, to the lively resorts in the east, the island has something for everyone. The eastern coast is famous for its fine white sandy beaches with shallow turquoise waters. Deep water bays with rocky outcrops are perfect for snorkelling or diving. The long finely packed grey sand of the southern coast lend themselves to long winter walks or jogging, while the secluded coves of the western coast beckon when you want to be alone. (Photo:Markus Bassler)
The countryside in Cyprus is blessed with natural and man-made beauty with an abundant historical heritage. Its beautifully unique natural environment is complemented by its traditional villages and architecture which lend it a special character and are always welcoming of visitors in the traditional warm and hospitable Cypriot way. Such an environment imbues a peaceful harmony between humans and nature, something which can be felt as soon as you have arrived in Cyprus and is one of the reasons visitors come here. In this kind of environment, a visitor comes in to contact with the welcoming locals of the traditional villages both mountain and coastal, experiences the simple and serene life, learns old folk customs, takes in the surrounding tranquil nature life and to round the experience off, enjoys the unique to the island traditional foods and drink. Noticing this new trend of holidaymakers, the Cyprus Government has implemented a programme to restore traditional villages and the houses therein to strengthen agrotourism in Cyprus and to help it thrive. Hence, the Cyprus Agrotourism Company has been established to directly deal with holidays in the Cyprus Countryside.
10,000 Years of civilization gathered together on one island. It is said, “scratch the soil anywhere in Cyprus and you will find traces of its magnificent past”. This is no exaggeration. Evidence of the island’s 10,000 years of history is scattered throughout the island.
Situated at the maritime crossroads of the eastern Mediterranean basin, Cyprus has a rich and varied history. Many invaders, settlers and immigrants have come here over the centuries, and the island has seen Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Lusignans, Genoese, Venetians, Ottomans, British and Turks seek to take a part of Cyprus for themselves.
Cyprus is a living book of pictures taken from world history.
Troodos Mountains, due to its altitude, is covered in snow during winter. It is a popular resort for skiers during the skiing months. Tourists and locals alike visit the mountains during the summer to take a break from the searing summer heat down at sea level. Walk through the forests on one of the nature trails and take in the wonderful scents and aromas and enjoy looking at the waterfalls and surrounding views.
The Troodos mountains are unique in their geology and one of the only few places in the world where scientists can examine oceanic crust without needing to go to the sea. An underwater volcano that erupted 90 million years ago, and the reason the island was formed, has given rise to pillow lava which is observable throughout the mountains. The area of Troodos is also home to one of the 5 most copper rich areas in the world. Some say the island’s name ‘Kypros’ is derived from the Latin name for copper, ‘cuprum’.
Hospitality, accompanied by authentic smiles and friendly faces, is what characterizes Greek Cypriot people. Loyal to family bonds, traditions and culture, lovers of nice food and endless entertainment, Cypriots are always friendly and approachable. In fact, the word hospitality in Greek is called “filoksenia” which has two stems namely, “filos” meaning “friend” and “ksenos” meaning “guest” or “tourist”. Cypriots are then friendly to their guests and tourists, as their mother tongue suggests.
Cute cats call Cyprus their home. Most people who have been on holiday to Cyprus will have taken some cute cat photos. They are everywhere: basking in the sun on sandy beaches; purposefully circling unsuspecting diners; hunting someone or something. Aren’t they just adorable?
Using a traditional mix of herbs and spices, olive oil and fresh local ingredients the Cyprus cuisine is Mediterranean in nature and considered by many doctors around the world to be the healthiest diet in the world. Many have been captivated by the unique flavours and aromas.
The fresh fruit, herbs, pulses, greens, fresh fish and lean meat offer delicious flavours as well as a healthy way to eat.
Traditional recipes have been passed down from generation to generation with home cooking being a strong custom and tradition even in today’s contemporary world. If you add good company whilst dining with the traditional Cyprus cuisine it makes for a truly enjoyable time.
On that note the famed Cypriot warmth and hospitality makes the food even tastier!
Having endless fun is guaranteed once you stop off the island. All cities have a plethora of nightclubs and bars, which promise an unforgettable time.
The main clubbing spot, in Cyprus is Ayia Napa which is internationally known as one of the ultimate party cities; Limassol follows second on the nightlife scale followed by Paphos, Larnaca, Protaras and of course Nicosia.
In the summertime fun takes a whole new meaning here in Cyprus. Fun music, non-stop dancing, exclusively made drinks, great weather, amazing people and funky clubs located on the beach: What else would you ask for a magical night on the island?
Offering the perfect balance between work and relaxation, with long sunny days in a stress-free atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Cyprus enjoys an idyllic Mediterranean lifestyle, 340 days of sunshine a year and some of the most welcoming people in the world…all in a modern and well-functioning environment.
from: Choosecyprus
