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Few words about the island …
Known as the ‘Jewel of the Mediterranean’ and famed for its association with Aphrodite - Goddess of Love, Cyprus, is an island of exceptional natural beauty, which extends the warmest of welcomes to its many visitors. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea with an area of 9,251 sq. kilometres, full of beauty and contrasts. With its spectacular scenery, beautiful beaches and enviable climate, it’s no wonder that Aphrodite chose the island as her birthplace and playground. Cyprus has a maximum length of 240 kilometres from east to west and a maximum width of 100 kilometres from north to south. It is situated at the north-eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea and it is the crossroads of Europe, Africa and Asia.
The island is divided into six districts. Nicosia, which is the capital, is situated roughly in the centre of the island, it is the seat of government as well as the financial and business centre. A fascinating mixture of old and new, at has a continental feel with its high buildings, popular street cafes and quality fashion shops in the commercial centre. Famagusta Gate, one of the three original gates to the city, was restored by the Municipality of Nicosia in 1981, and has been a successful cultural centre since. In Nicosia there are many houses, buildings and museums that merits a visit, such as the Archiepiskopical Palace, the Laiki Geitonia (Folk Neighbourhood), the Cyprus Museum, etc.
All other major cities, which are detailed analysed further, are situated on the coast. Limassol is the second largest city and is the major commercial port and industrial centre, as well as tourist resort. Larnaca and Paphos are also popular holiday resorts and international airports serve both cities. Two of the cities remaining, Famagusta and Kerynia, are part of the 37% of the island that is under Turkish occupation.
From the highest point of Mount Olympos to the coasts and sweeping plains, Cyprus is nature’s island. Many wild flowers, trees and plants enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine all year round. Cyprus is also prized for its bird life, and the migratory birds that use the country as a stopover between the seasons.
There are plenty to see in the mountains. Many Byzantine Churches which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, the mountain villages which are absolutely charming, and each one has a special crop, craft or product for which it is known – fruits, apples, peaches, sweet specialities such as ‘palouze’, wines, ‘zivania’, rosewater, pottery etc. the largest and most famous monastery in Cyprus is also located in the mountains of Troodos. Kykkos Monastery as it is called, with a golden icon of the Virgin Mary, is said to be paint by Saint Luke.
The island’s pleasant Mediterranean climate allows approximately 340 sunny days a year. The long dry summer lasts from June to September with July and August being the hottest months. During winter the weather is mild but changeable, with January being the coolest month. On the mountains, snow begins to fall in December, and skiing is usually possible from January to February.
Cyprus people are warm and traditionally welcoming. Their native language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in all hotels, shops and restaurants; in fact just about everywhere. Because of large numbers of tourism arrivals to the island, Cypriots have learned and speak many other languages. The place is leisurely, the people kind, helpful and hospitable, always with a warm smile.
Nightlife in Cyprus caters every mood and every age. There are trendy discos and sophisticated nightclubs. There are thousands of taverns to choose from all over Cyprus, each one offering a friendly welcome and a relaxed atmosphere. At some, there is live bouzouki music and the visitor realizes how Cypriots enjoy their local songs. ‘Kopiaste’ someone will say to a complete stranger, meaning, “come and join in, come and share our food, our drink and our fun”.
So why wait any longer? Experience Cyprus for yourself and you will soon realise why so many people fall in love with this island and return time and time again.
Entry Requirements: Traveling Documents
Traveling to Cyprus is very easy. The documentation required varies, depending on your nationality. A valid passport is required for a stay of up to 90 days for all bonafide tourists except citizens of European Union countries, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway who may enter Cyprus with their national identity card provided it bears a photo. Some non-EU third country nationals require a visa. Further detailed information can be obtained from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Entry Requirements: Legal Points of Entry
The legal ports of entry into the Republic of Cyprus are the airports of Larnaka and Pafos and the ports of Larnaka, Lemesos, Latsi and Pafos, which are situated in the area under the effective control of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus. Entry into the territory of the Republic of Cyprus via any other port or airport in which the Government of the Republic does not exercise effective control (Turkish occupied areas) is illegal.
Entry Requirements: Traveling With a Pet
If you are coming from an EU Member State, you are allowed to bring your pets to Cyprus provided they possess either a passport or an Animal Health Certificate. But, if you are coming from a non-EU country, you will also need a Vaccination Certificate (especially showing vaccination against rabies).
Please also note the following:
- Animals should be transported in cages made in accordance to IATA specifications.
- Animals and their accompanying documents are inspected on arrival by the Veterinary Officer or by the duty Customs Officer acting on behalf of the Veterinary Services.
- Animals that fulfill the relevant veterinary provisions will be allowed to enter without being subject to quarantine.
- The Veterinary Officer in charge decides on the basis of the relevant veterinary provisions whether the animal will be quarantined or not.
The date, time of arrival and flight number of the aircraft or the name of the vessel with which the animal is due to arrive in Cyprus must be communicated to the District Veterinary Officer at the point of entry, 48 hours prior to arrival.
The following breeds of dogsare not allowed into the Republic of Cyprus regardless of their country of origin.
- American Pitbull Terrier; Pitbull Terrier
- Japanese Tosa; Tosa Inu
- Dogo Argentino; Argentinean Mastiff
- Fila Brasileiro; Brazilian Mastiff
Further information can be obtained from the Veterinary Services of the Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment.
Entry Requirements: Importing Products
Every person entering Cyprus is entitled to import the following duty free articles (not intended for commercial purposes), provided they are carried in the passengers' hand luggage or accompanying baggage:
Tobacco: 800 cigarettes, 400 cigarillos, 200 cigars, 1kg of tobacco
Alcohol: 10 litres of spirits, 20 litres fortified wine (such as port or sherry), 90 litres of wine (of which a maximum of 60 litres of sparkling wine), 110 litres of beer. Travellers under the age of seventeen are not entitled to duty free tobacco products and alcohol.
It is prohibited to import agricultural products or propagating stock such as fruit, vegetables, cut flowers, dry nuts, seeds, bulbs, bulb-wood sticks, cuttings, etc., without the approval of the competent authorities. The import, possession and use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances are strictly prohibited. The import of fire arms, ammunition, explosives, flick knives, daggers, swords, obscene books, photographs, films and articles as well as goods bearing a forged trademark or false trade description is prohibited or restricted. Also prohibited or restricted are pirated or counter feit goods, animals, birds, uncooked meat and fish and products there of, milk and dairy products.
Diplomatic Missions of the Republic of Cyprus Abroad
Detailed information concerning Cyprus's Embassies and High Commissions abroad can be obtained from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Food and Drink
With emphasis on fresh local ingredients, a pungent mix of herbs and spices and a light spattering of olive oil, Cypriot food is essentially Mediterranean, similar to that of Greece and with a hint of the Middle East and Asia Minor.
Both poets and travellers past have praised the flavours of the island. In present times doctors and health specialists have added their voices in extolling the virtues of the Mediterranean diet. The grains and pulses, sun-ripened fresh fruit and vegetables, high-protein fish, lean meat and poultry, olive oil and wine are both a healthy option as well as an irresistible temptation.
In a society of extended families with close ties, it is not surprising that home cooking is an important feature of everyday life, with recipes passed down through the generations. Having a hearty meal in the company of friends and family is what it’s all about. No wonder that hospitality and conviviality are deeply ingrained in the Cypriot psyche, so much so that pleasing has become a fine art. So give free reign to your taste buds and indulge in a culinary feast.
Sun and Sea
Sink your toes into warm sand, feel the sun warming your skin as you look out on the sparkling blue Mediterranean sea. Nothing beats Cyprus for a beach holiday.
With an expansive coastline providing a wide variety of beaches to choose from, ranging from secluded bays, to lively resorts, sandy beaches and rocky coves, you are bound to find the right one for you.
Relaxing in the sun is not the only reasons to visit Cyprus. There’s a myriad of activities you could indulge in and being an island, water sports feature strongly. Try the waterpark for thrills, or bungee jumping for an extreme sensation. Discover the magic of the underwater world by snorkelling or diving in the warm crystal clear seas. Windsurfing and sailing can be enjoyed all the year round, thanks to steady winds and calm predictable seas, while coastal cruising and deep-water fishing are also popular. You could even use the island as a base for a short cruise to other nearby countries.
Coasts and Beaches
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.
The Regions of Cyprus
When in Cyprus, don’t limit yourself to the main cities and coastal resorts. Spread your wings by venturing into the countryside. From fragrant citrus orchards and olive groves, rolling vineyards, wide open plains carpeted with colourful wild flowers, to cool pine forests and pristine beaches where turtles nest, Cyprus’ nature will delight you at all times of year. Go on a wine or culinary tour discovering age-old villages cascading down hillsides with shady squares where you can sit at the coffee shop and mix with the locals. Spend a relaxing day at one of the salt lakes where you can observe nature and wildlife to your heart’s content; Or visit some of Europe’s most evocative ancient sites, Neolithic settlements and quaint medieval churches. Cyprus offers the full Mediterranean experience in a compact area easy to reach.
Learning
Cyprus is an excellent place to combine a holiday with learning Greek or make your learning experience a holiday. The legacy of British rule is very much in evidence on the island and the English language widely spoken. And with a safety record well above that of Europe and the USA, Cyprus is a safe destination where you can send your child unaccompanied without worrying. Cyprus is a pleasant environment well organised and supervised.
Events
More than a place just for lounging in the sun, there’s lots of things happening in Cyprus all the year round. From cultural performance with big name stars, sports events to participate in or watch religious festivals with all the pomp and circumstance of the Greek Orthodox Church, to informative conferences where you can meet like minds. You’ll be surprised at what you can enjoy here.
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