Catch the Sporting Fever in Cyprus

The beautiful island of Cyprus is best-known for its wonderfully hot climate and its stunning collection of sandy beaches, and it’s perhaps fair to say that conditions on the island don’t necessarily lend themselves to great sporting achievement. When the temperatures are high and the sun is beating down, most of the locals would prefer to enjoy something a little more sedentary.

This isn’t always the case, however. Many sports are extremely popular on the island, and the locals are always keen to show their support. The most popular spectator sport in Cyprus is football, and there are several well-supported clubs in the Cypriot First Division. There was great celebration in 2012, when one of the local clubs, Apoel FC of Nicosia, qualified for the group stages of the European Champions League.

Another popular sport – and one which has seen Cyprus achieve notable success – is basketball. In 2007-08, AEL of Limassol managed a highly credible third place in the prestigious EuroCup, beating such luminaries as Khimik (Ukraine) and Spartak Saint Petersburg (Russia) along the way.

In recent years, Cyprus has gone tennis-crazy, and this is almost completely due to the success of one man. Marcos Baghdatis was born in Limassol and has been one of the world’s best players for a while now. Among his more famous achievements are reaching the final of the Australian Open in 2006 and making it to the semi-finals at Wimbledon in the same year. Whenever he makes a personal appearance in Cyprus, Baghdatis is surrounded by ecstatic fans.

Cyprus is revered in the world of rallying, because the island provides one of the toughest tests on the international calendar. The Cyprus Rally has been held since the 1970s, and the dusty winding roads around Limassol provide the perfect backdrop for an event that is always exciting and always a little dangerous.

It may come as something of a surprise that skiing is becoming increasing popular in Cyprus. During the winter months the slopes of the Troodos Mountains are home to a thriving skiing community, and although it may not have the wide choice of peaks that the Alps has, it has become a hidden gem of sorts in recent times.

Needless to say, the island is also home to a wonderful choice of water-sports facilities for both tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re in the mood for a little snorkeling or perhaps some windsurfing, the crystal clear Mediterranean will provide the perfect conditions to have some fun.

Exciting Adventure Holidays for the Whole Family

There are loads of options when it comes to holidays and entertaining the whole family. A lot of these options are not as well-known about as they should be and are a fantastic idea to make the most of the time that you have together. Family holidays and planning can be quite daunting subjects to approach, but they don’t need to be. A family holiday needs to appeal to every age concerned and be fun!

When considering your holiday, what do you think about? Heading for sun is on the top of most peoples agenda, but it can be difficult to justify the trip as the kids can get quite bored which means you might consider whether it’s worth it at all. If you want to escape the everyday stress and take your family with you, then you can and best of all, you can ensure everyone has a great time.

Your family adventure holiday can be anything you want it to be and you will be sure to be pleasantly surprised by the possibilities. You can whisk your whole family away for safari holidays, activity holidays, walking holidays; you name it.

Safari holidays are quite stereotyped to African safaris, but there are plenty of places you can go. If you want the traditional wildlife safari holidays, then yes, you will be looking at Africa, but you could also consider seeing the tigers in India, the penguins and polar bears in the Arctic, you can walk, drive, or even enjoy a trip on a boat! So they kids will definitely be pleased and you can learn something too.

Walking holidays are a lot more exciting than they sound. Cyprus is a beautiful island with some amazing things to see. The island is abundant with archaeological remains dating all the way back to the 11th century! A walking holiday in Cyprus could be the perfect family Adventure holiday for you; walk through the unspoilt areas for your own little safari holiday on foot. See the wildlife and beautiful flowers. Relax and immerse yourself into the Cypriot culture, enjoy the cuisine, and explore at your leisure. There are loads of attractions in Cyprus and you could visit the Shipwreck museum, Bellapais Village and the stunning abbey, or St Hilarion Castle. Have a picnic at Aphrodite’s Rock and Beach in Pissouri and explore the stories and myths of the Goddess of love. The possibilities are endless and, with a walking holiday, you can be sure to see everything there is to see, at your own pace. That’s the best thing really; there’s no need to rush and you can divert of course as you please to really feel like you are a part of the place while you are there.

Then, there’s the sun! Always a bonus, and with everything to see combined; everyone will be happy. Family adventure holidays come in many different packages and a package is a great option for a family. Getting your holiday as part of a package means that everything will be planned and dealt with for you – what more could you ask for? There are some great sites that offer some amazing adventures that will keep your kids, and you, entertained all trip round.

Rachel is a freelance writer based in Wales who loves family adventure holidays and, even more so, African safari holidays. When not writing; you’ll usually find Rachel writing her book, or planning her next holiday to Cyprus.

Top free things to do in Cyprus

Booking Cyprus holidays is a great way to get away from it all, but worrying about overspending can cast a shadow over even the most amazing break. Fortunately, the island has loads of great things you can see and do for free – read our guide to find out more.

Enjoy the sunshine!

One of the most obvious things you can do here that won’t cost you a penny is soak up the sun. In fact, Cyprus is one of Europe’s sunniest destinations, with a whopping 300 days of sunshine a year. Plus, since it’s also home to gorgeous beaches, it’s a great place to sunbathe, swim and snorkel – all of which are likely to be highlights of any getaway here, regardless of whether you’re keeping a close eye on your cash or not!

Aphrodite’s Rock and Beach

One of Cyprus’s top attractions is Aphrodite’s Rock and Beach in Pissouri. Legend has it that the Greek goddess of love emerged from the sea here – but this place is so beautiful that it would probably still be a popular tourist spot even if it wasn’t steeped in myth!

It’s well worth coming here for a swim or a picnic, but the beach really comes into its own at sunset. If you’re on a romantic break, seeing the sun go down on Aphrodite’s Beach should definitely be among the top things on your to-do list – and it costs nothing.

Tombs of the Kings

Ok, so this one isn’t technically free, but it’s pretty close – and it really is worth a visit. While its name indicates some kind of royal connection, the tombs are actually king-free, owing their title to their impressive interiors instead.

Situated in Paphos, the Tombs of the Kings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a series of underground chambers and tombs dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Bear in mind they’re quite spread apart, so a trip here involves a fair bit of walking. Because of this, it’s a good idea to come in the morning if you can – and that way you can sidestep the worst of the heat too.

Limassol’s medieval castle

Head to Limassol and you can check out the medieval castle. Entering the grounds is free, which is an especially good thing because the gardens here are gorgeous – and often provide some welcome shade.

This attraction has a rich history; as well as being ransacked and controlled by various invaders, it was built on the site of a Byzantine castle. It is believed this previous castle is where Richard the Lionheart wed Berengaria and made himself King of Cyprus.

Walks

Walking is a pastime often overlooked on holidays – probably because it doesn’t seem exciting enough. This logic is a little backwards though, as walking is something that lets you to discover a new place like nothing else. While you can simply take scenic strolls on the beaches, there are a couple of other places well worth considering.

Paphos’s harbour, for example, is really scenic and a great spot to explore on foot, while if you head to the island’s capital, Nicosia, you can walk around its historic walls. The old city here is hemmed in by Venetian walls dating back to the 16th century. They are famed for their odd shape, which many think is similar to that of a snowflake.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, make your way into the Troodos Mountains and take one of the local established hiking routes. The path dubbed Kalidonia is a particularly good option, since it leads you to the scenic Caledonian waterfalls.

The Must-See Sights of Cyprus

Cyprus is a stunning Mediterranean island. Fiercely protective of its identity, Cyprus revels in its cultural heritage, which is forged from Greek, Turkish, British and even Italian and Spanish influences. It offers holidays with pristine beaches, beautiful scenery, interesting history, friendly people and tasty food.

Museums
The small island of Cyprus once played a big role in world history and it has the artefacts to show for it. There are several great museums presenting visitors a glimpse into the past through expertly curated exhibitions. One of the best places to start is the Cyprus Museum. Housing antiquities from the Neolithic to the Roman era and beyond, the museum is divided into several rooms which illustrate the evolution and influences of culture on the island. Other interesting museums in Cyprus include the Museum of Barbarism, and the Pierides Archaeological Foundation Museum.

Wineries
While not known globally as a wine-growing hotspot, the island is dotted with over 50 vineyards. Most are located in or near the Troodos Mountains. Agia Mavri Winery welcomes visitors from all around the world and encourages them to sample their range of fine wines.

Archaeological Sites
From ancient Assyrian sites to medieval castles, Cyprus is covered with more than its fair share of archaeological sites. Lemesos Medieval Castle is the most popular with tourists. Originally a Byzantine-era castle, it was fortified during the 11th and 14th centuries, and was used by the Ottomans and Venetians as a strategic military base. The site is also allegedly, where Richard the Lionheart crowned himself the King of Cyprus. The castle’s interior courtyard features stunning ancient gardens that should not be missed.

Stretching even further back into the island’s history is Ancient Amathous. This archaeological site was once the seat of one of Cyprus’ oldest kingdoms. Ruins here date back more than 3,000 years with clear influences from the ancient Phoenicians and Assyrians. The kingdom’s ruins show the remnants of grand marble columns which once held a temple dedicated to the Greek god Apollo.

Beaches
Cyprus has a number of beautiful beaches. The Paphos area is a favourite with visitors and contains two popular beaches – Coral Bay and Lara Bay. However, what makes Paphos so popular is Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock). According to mythology, it was here that the goddess rose from the sea and was born.

Protaras and Kyrenia are two other common beach areas for tourists. For something a little more secluded, head to the Larnaca area.

Churches and Monasteries

Several of Cyprus’ historical religious sites have earned the status of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Agios Ionnis Lambadistis Monastery looks unassuming from the outside, however, the small cluster of buildings is the result of 400 years of continuous work. Inside, the monastery reveals colourful and intricate frescoes dating from the 13th to the 16th century.

Panagia Forviotissa is another stunning example of a Cypriot church featuring beautiful frescoes. These date from between the 12th and 16th centuries. Pay close attention to the figures depicted in these detailed paintings. Many of their eyes have been scratched over as a result of Ottoman rule.

Restaurants, Taverns and Cafes
Cyprus has always boasted thriving and lively taverns. In recent years, local restaurants and eateries have begun to focus on high quality dining as well, making the island secretly one of the best gourmet destinations in the region. The local food is cooked to perfection and ranges from delicate fish dishes to hearty wild boar. Heavily influenced by Greek cuisine, try home-cooked kebab along with fresh seafood, such as sea urchin or wild game dishes like deer, fowl or boar.

The cafe scene is also alive and well inCyprus. Coffee shops are full of excellent beverages, people-watching and gossip. Iced coffees and frappes are popular in the summer heat, whilst some cafes still serve strong, traditionally brewed espresso – a must try for any coffee enthusiast.

Three cheers for Cypriot cuisine

One of the nicest things about visiting another country is undoubtedly having the opportunity to sample some of the local delicacies. We all love lying back in the sunshine with a cold drink and a good book, but when the evening comes around there’s something wonderfully decadent about visiting the restaurants and tasting the delicious fare that’s on offer.

First-time visitors to Cyprus are often surprised by the wide variety of dishes that are found on the menus of most restaurants. Cypriot chefs in the main tourist areas are keen to offer diners a broad spectrum of meals, including those you’d usually associate with British, Italian and French cuisine, but it’s those with a more local flavour which are always worth a try.

As you might expect, traditional Cypriot meals have a number of influences, including North African, Greek and Turkish, and they tend to have a few things in common. They are generally served with a generously-sized basket of bread (usually white), plenty of water and with a sizable portion of freshly-prepared salad.

Every island in the Mediterranean is well-known for its fish dishes, and many Cyprus restaurants offer freshly-caught delicacies in a variety of delicious sauces. Among the favourites are sea bass, red mullet, bream and calamari. The latter is cooked in a thin batter and is a particularly tasty option as a starter.

Something a little more substantial?

If you’re in the mood for something substantial, it’s a good idea to consider ordering a stiffado, or stew. There are several types, including a range of meat and fish varieties, and the beef stiffado is especially recommended. It’s traditionally cooked with red wine, tomatoes and onions, and can provide a hearty meal, especially when accompanied by bread.

In many cases the menu is so comprehensive, and diners will find it hard to settle on one specific dish. When this happens, ordering meze is the best option. This features several small dishes of many of the menu items, served up slowly in order to accentuate the various flavours. In large groups, ordering a meze for the whole table is a wonderful idea.

Cypriots love their desserts, so it’s a good idea to always leave a little room for something sweet. Baklava will be familiar to those who have been to Greece or Turkey over the years; it’s a puff pastry speciality that’s soaked in honey and filled with delicious nuts. It’s rich to the taste, so be sure to give it a try. Another favourite are loukomades, choux pastry balls that are served with a wonderful syrup topping. Bon appétit!

Why Cyprus is Perfect for Golf

In recent years, the golfing tourism industry has become increasingly busy in many countries. The steady stream of golfers from the cooler countries of northern Europe to the warmer southern nations has become something of a torrent, and even in the midst of an economic recession there has been little sign of any downturn in visitor numbers.

Although many people tend to head to the more established golf resorts of Spain and Portugal, a growing number of people have been looking to Cyprus as a viable destination. There are several reasons for this development, but perhaps the most obvious is the climate; even in the winter months the temperature is ideal for playing golf.

The warm sun and the cooling breezes ensure the perfect conditions, and the lush fairways and slick greens provide a testing but enjoyable round for players of all abilities. In addition to high temperatures, the island has relatively low levels of rainfall, so there aren’t many days during the average year when play isn’t possible.

As you might expect in such an idyllic island paradise, many of the golf courses in Cyprus offer players some truly spectacular views as they make their way around the course. Stunning cliff-top panoramas are especially impressive, and it’s often the case that returning golfers pack their cameras in their bags before they even pack their clubs.

A difficult, but enjoyable, test for all players

One of the most popular courses in the whole of Cyprus is Aphrodite Hills, which is located in the south-west of the island. Rightly regarded as one of the best courses in the Mediterranean, it features several beautifully contoured holes and fine manicured fairways. Be warned, though, the uphill fourth is a particularly tough test even for low handicappers.

Just up the coast from Aphrodite Hills you’ll find Elea Estate, a stunning course that was designed by the legendary Sir Nick Faldo. Although it’s only been open for less than two years, it has generated a great deal of interest from across Europe. Accuracy from the tee is a must at Elea, because there are plenty of bunkers and water hazards lying in wait.

Although some golfers choose to play the same course over and over again during their holidays, many of them opt instead to play several courses while they’re away. Companies which arrange golfing holidays have been keen to offer customers a chance to play in countries which aren’t usually associated with the golfing scene, and in Cyprus they have truly discovered a winner.

Beautiful wedding destinations in Cyprus

Ethnographic Museum

Escape the stress-induced experience of planning your wedding at home and elope! Any wedding planner would agree- it’s all about eloping. What better place to mark the best day of your life then in the glorious Mediterranean sun in Cyprus! Here are five wedding venues any bride would fall in love with!

    1. Located in Paphos, The Ethnographic Museum is set in a private house owned by the late George Eliades! The venue includes an idyllic courtyard overlooking the “Old Town”, setting the tone for a traditional and peaceful ambiance! Getting married in museum is far more unique then a resort package, particularly if you want to be in control of the personal touches such as the flowers or the catering. At the Ethnographic Museum these little touches are all up to you, giving you as much freedom as you want to make everything exactly the way you want it on your special day! It’s privacy and serenity makes it hard to believe it’s located in town- making it perfectly peaceful and intimate! This truly authentic and traditional venue is a charming venue!

    1. Elysium Hotel combines stylish decor, beautiful views and world-class service- making it the ultimate venue for your wedding. The hotel offers couples the choice of either it’s chapel or amphitheatre for the ceremony, accommodating both Catholic and Anglo weddings!  Weddings are almost second nature to this luxury resort so every worry and concern will be taken care of. Following your ceremony you’ll be in the careful hands of the hotels photographers, allowing you to capture those special moments!

    1. Cyprus is blessed with beautiful beaches, so it comes as no surprise that many young couples gravitate towards the pristine shore for their weddings! Open-air venues provide an idyllic and atmospheric backdrop, plus with a beach there’s no need to worry about whether it’s an Anglican or a Catholic church! Paphos beaches are particularly popular amongst weds, with it’s remarkable serenity and beauty, it sets the perfect ambiance for a wedding!

    1. Get married in traditional Greek chapel at Azia Hotel and Resort! The resort offers a wedding package including VIP check-in into the room, a champagne breakfast, and candlelit dinner and spa treatments! Everything from the catering to the flower arrangements is taken care of you, freeing you to enjoy and indulge your day to the max!

  1. If you have a taste for luxury, a yacht reception is perfect for you. Sail across the beautiful Paphos Coast, in prime view of the sunset’s reflection on the waters, for a beautiful reception! The entrancing views afforded by the scenery aswell as the privacy make it a fairytale wedding! Some companies come with additional services, taking care of the little jobs to ensure you’re as stress free as you can possible be!

5 Top Restaurants in Cyprus

Cyprus is an exquisite holiday destination that has stunning beaches, landmark attractions, and most of all, affordable accommodation options that please various interests. However, one of the major attractant is this beautiful island is the ample supply of palatable food. Tender roasted meat served with fresh vegetables, and spices make the popular Cypriot cuisine that is not only delicious, but also cheap, and very healthy. Many traditional restaurants offer an excellent cutlery experience. However, those who want a more refined fine palate restaurant can find many premium establishments. Finally, with the influx of spas and luxury hotels on this island, people can find many gourmet restaurants. Their sleek, boutique style interiors, ambient environment, and rich cuisine, can easily please even the most discerning of visitors.

Principally, for food lovers, the plethora of restaurant options that Cyprus offers is unmatched. Whether visitors are looking for their traditional local dishes, or global innovative cuisines, Cyprus will never disappoint. However, people only need to do the mandatory legwork to find a decent restaurant that offers excellent services. This is challenging task, especially with the array of restaurants in this area. Individuals who have this challenge should consider the following five top restaurants in Cyprus:

1. Sabor

This is an exquisite restaurant located next to the Selimiye Mosque in North Nicosia, Cyprus. It is among the trendiest restaurants in the region, mainly because of its characteristic wooden tables and a lounge that has soft leather sofas. In addition, the fashionable photographs on the wall and colourful lamps that swing low create a warm, inviting environment that is suitable for families, and lovers who want to share quality time. In addition to its lush architecture, visitors enjoy palatable Spanish cuisine while listening to the live jazz piano music that the restaurant hosts, mainly on Wednesdays and Fridays.

2. Syrian Arab Friendship Club

The Syrian Arab Friendship Club is an ideal vegetarian restaurant in North Nicosia, Cyprus. It has a massive meze and a lush green garden laden with cooling fan. For this reason, the Syrian Arab Friendship Club is an excellent restaurant for people with big families who like to dine out. The level of service in this restaurant is friendly and alternatives unlimited. For instance, people can eat green beans, tabouleh, chicken peas, and many other delicacies.

3. Hondros

The Hondros restaurant in Paphos, Cyprus is popular, mainly because of its local Cypriot cuisine. Even though it has simple tables covered with characteristic checked clothing, the food served is traditional and delicious, and the level of service fast and professional. In addition to primary Cypriot dishes such as meat stefado and kleftiko, the restaurant offers a children’s menu that has fish fingers, hamburgers, chicken nuggets, and other delicacies.

4. Seven St Georges’ Tavern

The Seven St Georges’ Tavern is a one-of-a-kind restaurant in Paphos, Cyprus. What is striking about this restaurant is that the drinks and foods that people eat are grown and pickled in its vicinity. The owner, George, has a smoking cabin and herb garden where production and preparation of food and wine take place. The main advantage of dinning in this restaurant is that the food is always fresh and the menu changes with seasons. The level of service is also unmatched. This is because in addition to its professionally trained and courteous waiters, the owner, George, makes periodic rounds and engages with the customers directly.

5. Milakos

Milakos is a Lebanese restaurant that prides itself as being the most hospitable in the region. It has professional chefs who prepare exquisite dishes, and a variety of homemade sweets. Finally, apart from hospitality and rich cuisine, Milakos was the first restaurant to offer private business rooms in Cyprus. Those who hold special meetings, and or seminars will appreciate what this restaurant has to offer.

People who want to enjoy exquisite cuisines, excellent customer service, and a memorable holiday experience in general should consider five top restaurants in Cyprus.

Cyprus on a Shoestring – Making the Most of a Cyprus Trip on a Budget

Cyprus on a Shoestring – Making the Most of a Cyprus Trip on a Budget

The Republic of Cyprus is definitely not one of the cheapest countries to visit – most likely because the country is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. A tour of Cyprus is an event that you will really have to save up for, but if you really can’t afford to take a grand tour, you can still see the magnificent sites that it has to offer on a shoestring budget. Here are some tips on how you can enjoy your visit without doing too much harm to your bank account.

Taking a tour around Cyprus has certainly become increasingly expensive over the years. The European economy hasn’t been doing very good and tourist spots around Cyprus have been forced to increase the prices of their goods mainly because of a significant drop in visitors. However, there are still some places that have figured out that increasing their prices may have an adverse affect on the remaining visitors of the country so they have tried to keep their prices as low as possible.

The trick to touring Cyprus on a shoestring is to live as close as possible to the way the locals live. Locals would rarely go to the shops that tourists would go to, simply because they tend to cost a bit more than usual. So, the best tactic is to shop at the shops where the locals go. Try to avoid spending your money at the tourist shops so that you can stretch out your budget as far as possible.

Before you head to Cyprus, take a moment to study some travel tips for backpackers. Your aim is to lighten your load as much as possible.

Cyprus is a country that is blessed with the sun all year round. You will surely want to take a stroll on one of its beaches, or maybe go for a swim once in a while in the warm waters. However, try to avoid eating in one of the beach front restaurants as the prices are definitely more than what you would want to spend. Some beach front restaurants that have decent meals for under €10, but they make most of their money by selling you expensive drinks.

The best thing to do is to take a short walk to the village Tavernas of Paphos. Most of the hotels and restaurants are designed for tourists, but if you really want to get a good feel of traditional Cyprus, head to Tavernas.

If you want to make the most out of your shoestring budget, there are a number of free guided walk trails in Paphos and the other cities. The entrance to historical sites is something you won’t be able to save on, but they are rather inexpensive so these shouldn’t become a problem.

If you’re planning to stay in Cyprus for some time, it would be better to get a car so you can drive around the different historical sites – you’ll probably even see some of the same budget car brands from home around the place. Renting a vehicle is relatively inexpensive, compared to other countries.

It is possible to enjoy Cyprus and visit all of the historical sites, beaches and the food that they have to offer even if you’re on a shoestring budget. Just remember to spend your time as closely as possible to the locals.

Purchasing property in Cyprus – An overview

Considering the fact that the once solid real estate market in America is in serious decline, individuals are looking for other markets to invest in. The amazing island of Cyprus is famous for its natural aura, delicious local dishes, and hospitality. At times just coming to Cyprus for a couple of days of the year is not sufficient and there are several individuals who would dream of buying a home in Cyprus. The lone factor that stopping them is that they are under the wrong conception that unless they’re the citizens of Cyprus they cannot buy a property there. For people who are not residents or citizens of Cyprus, but are keen on making property investments in Paphos, Nicosia, Larnaka, Protaras, Ayia Napa, Limassol, and any other place of Cyprus like Cyprus Villages, need to fulfill certain requirements. EU residents normally belong to two classes: those who reside in EU but do not hold a permanent citizenship of Cyprus and those who are citizens of EU and hold a permanent citizenship of Cyprus.

People who want to purchase property in Cyprus or who want to trade their Cyprus property can feel comfortable in investing cash since it’s not a very hard nut to crack. While in other nations you would have to go through a lot of troubles and intricacies for either purchasing or trading property, the process is relatively simpler in Cyprus. The property you purchase in Cyprus is based upon your situation and corresponding to its EU agreement. Recently, Cyprus has lifted a couple of the earlier restrictions on EU residents.

EU member state residents can buy any amount of property and land in Cyprus.

People who are not citizens of EU can buy a house, villa, or an apartment which is erected on a locale not more than 4.014 square meters.
An organization with a majority of shareholders and directors who are Cypriots or Europeans can purchase any amount of property in Cyprus.
Property in Cyprus is also obtainable for individuals living in foreign nations and who wish to take on land for their employees.