Whether looking to escape the cold weather outside your door by fleeing to a finer climate or hoping to scratch the lifelong itch you’ve had to see the friendly, sun-dappled Mediterranean, Cyprus is an all-around appealing destination and deserves to be a contender as you decide where your next vacation will be. So as not to overwhelm, let us focus on the western region of this pleasant island, where you’ll find plenty of sights, sounds and situations to satisfy your wanderlust and let you breathe easy for a while.
Cyprus isn’t clearly linked to any one continent or identity, rather, it has been influenced over the years by Europe, Africa and the Middle East to cultivate its own fascinating personality. Rich history, complete with Greek and Roman accents such as churches, ancient buildings and mythical reminders like Aphrodite’s birthplace give Cyprus an intriguing and almost otherworldly feel. If you’ve grown far too used to your suburban surroundings or monotonous schedule, seeing these unique sites will be refreshing.
In western Cyprus, Paphos is best known for catering to tourists from all over the world. English is widely spoken, the weather is bright all year long, and there’s a generally welcoming atmosphere from the ample shops and restaurants to the stunning views. People come here to leave it all behind, something the locals realize, so expect to be accommodated rather than simply tolerated.
Paphos consists of a traditional town and also a coastal region; both are worth taking a look at. The ruins that pepper the region qualify the city as a World Heritage Site, and visitors will have the chance to see tombs, mosaics, Byzantine churches, museums, basilicas and temples, some dating back to the12th century B.C. The melding of cultures and eye-catching architecture are sure to impress history enthusiasts and neophytes alike, and at the very least, the palpable feeling of depth and energy that permeates the air will rejuvenate you as you stroll from one place to the next.
As for the natural wonders, there’s the beach, the mountains and everything in between. Snorkel, swim and fish in the shockingly blue waters, tickle your toes in the white sand, and strive to soak in enough sun to return home with a caramel colored complexion. If you’re here during the winter months, ski on Mount Olympus located inland a little bit. Channel the perspective of the gods as you look down over the land beneath you, still not quite believing that you’re actually here. A trip to Cyprus, maybe because it’s an island or maybe because of its ethereal qualities, will never let you take this privileged opportunity for granted.
Pamper yourself even further by settling into a lodging situation fit for Zeus himself. The region known as Chlorakas, a kind of satellite to Paphos’s glowing orb, has several vacation rentals available all year long. As opposed to hotel rooms, these properties are a little more pleasing thanks to ample amenities, gorgeous views, tastefully decorated rooms, and best of all, variety. No matter what it is you seek you’re sure to find it somewhere within the Chlorakas Vacation Rental listings that are displayed online, so check them out today.
Sometimes visiting a far-off place is just what you need to recharge. Cyprus understands this, and will take good care of you and your traveling companions. Settle into a comfortable villa, apartment or beach side home and prepare to follow the example of all the hedonists, god-like or mortal, who have come before.
Cities: The capital and largest city, Nicosia, known locally as Lefkosia is located on the Pedieos River in the central part of the island. Paphos the ancient capital of Cyprus is the capital city of the western part of Cyprus. The port city of Larnaca a popular beach holiday destination is the location of the main airport for Cyprus. The port city of Limassol second largest city is located in the south part of the island on Akrotiri Bay.
Geography/Topography: Cyprus Isle is located in the north-eastern Mediterranean Sea and lies at the hinge of Europe, and Asia. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean after Sardinia Africa and Sicily. The island has been blessed by the Gods and creation with a heterogeneous countryside, natural and historic settings, sandy bays, rocky coast-lines, mountain resorts, crystal clear waters and idyllic villages. Each resort or city has its own authentic asset and all is easy accessible.
Climate: Cyprus enjoys an intense Mediterranean climate, with long summers from May to October, and mild winters from December to February. Spring and autumn seasons are short. With an average of 340 sunny days a year, Cyprus Island can pride itself on being one of the sunniest and healthiest destinations in the Mediterranean that allows for a wide rage of outdoor activities and amusement. It is the ideal resort, all year round. Required clothing: Lightweight cottons and linens during summer months, warmer medium weight dress and rainwear during the winter.
With Cyprus weather means that you can savor Cyprus in the winter as well as the summer. For the traveler that does not care regarding spending their vacation swimming, then Cyprus Island is a great winter vacation island. The official winter vacation period is since the middle of November till the middle of March but to be literal these months are most often tepid with very little days bringing freezing or depressed winter weather. Even if it rains, the sun is likely to come else whither at some indicate; very few days are grey also dismal, maybe 2-3 throughout the whole 365 day period.
Religion Greek Orthodox: Currency and Banking: Cyprus Pound is divided in 100 cents. Exchange conveniences are available at all ports of entry, banks, hotels and bureau de change. Major credit cards are widely accepted and traveler cheques may be cashed at all banks. 1 CYP is regarding 1.75 EUR. The introduction of EURO: As from January 2008 all transactions are much easier with the introduction of Euro also in Cyprus. Opening hours: Monday - Friday: 8h30 - 12h30 Monday afternoon: 15h15 - 16h45.
Passports and Visas: A valid passport is essential. Visas are not required for holders of EU passports or countries with which a Bilateral Agreement exists.
Vaccination: Immunization against hepatitis A is sometimes recommended.
Flights and Airports: Over 40 airlines operate flights within, to and from Cyprus Island. Larnaca: International Airport (LCA) is 5 km south of the city; Pafos Airport (PFO) is 15 km east of the city. Local Time GMT +2 (GMT +3 from March to October).
Electricity: Square 13-amp three-pin plugs (UK-type) are used.
Infrastructure: Cyprus Island benefits from a good infrastructure. Modern roads and motorways allow easy traveling, advanced tele-communication system is standard, modern Health Sector, International Banking, Offshore and Shipping Centre, qualified government assistance and Health and Safety regulations are in general agreement with the European Law. Villages Limassol: 151.000 inhabitants Larnaca: 67.000 inhabitants Pafos: 38.000 inhabitants.
Vacations: Gastronomy. Cyprus is famous for one of the healthiest diets in the world and the isle produces an unlimited variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, depending on the season. Fish is caught daily and the local specialties satisfy all tastes. The local restaurants and taverns offer a wealth of choices in Cypriot food. The Cypriot "Meze" offers a delightful, almost endless selection of small dishes.
Hotels: The hospitality industry is far developed and offers lodgings and services of high standard.
Sports: Biking: bikes for rent available. Diving, Fishing, Golf, Hiking, Horse riding, Motor biking: motor bikes for rent available, Sailing, Skiing: January - March, Tennis, Wind surfing.
Shopping: Local products of special interest to visitors include leather goods, woven fabrics, ceramics, filigree silverware, baskets, "Lefkaritika" lace and local wines and spirits. Tailor-made suits and spectacles are also very good buys. Opening hours: Workdays 9h00 - 13h00 and 15h00 - 19h00, Wednesdays and Saturdays half day only. These hours may vary depending on the season. Local Markets Limassol: Monday to Saturday: 8h00 - 13h00 Larnaca: Saturday: 6h00 - 12h00 Pafos: Monday to Saturday: 6h00 - 12h00.
General information: Driving. Traffic drives on the left and sign posting is very good, in both Greek and English. Drivers must be 21 years old and in possession of either a valid international driving license or their national license when renting a car.
Safety: Cyprus is still a very safe island with a low crime rate.
Health: All health requirements are EU standard. Doctors visit the lodging upon request and hospitals and Medical Centers are located in the cities and world-traveler areas. Pharmacies can be found in villages and tourist resorts.
Communication: Cyprus is connected to the cellular network (GSM) and compatible mobile phones can be used. Wire or wireless Internet access is widely available.
Churches: Ecumenical, Catholic and Protestant masses are available in all cities and traveler areas.
Cyprus can really please everyone: couples, families also groups can select between lively resorts and quieter settings with plenty of space to rest.
Both Caitlin Moore & Nick Nikolis are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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