Introducing Cyprus
Floating on the waters of the European Mediterranean, but pointing longingly towards the shores of Syria, Turkey and Lebanon, Cyprus is an odd mixture. It is a kaleidoscopic blend: its cultural influences are dominated by Western Europe, but its geographic proximity to Asia and Africa gives it more than just a hint of the East. Long coveted by mainland Greece and Turkey, this small island has its own definite and beguiling character.
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Whether you know it as the ‘island of sin’ (or ‘fun’) thanks to wild stories from Agia Napa; the country that entered the EU only as a half; or, as the tourist brochures love to point out, ‘the island of Aphrodite’, Cyprus both confirms and confounds the stereotype. Parts of Cyprus have been overrun by keen developers who (depending on who you’re talking to) have either ‘sold the country’s soul’ or ‘are bringing great wealth to the island’. Whatever the truth, in the tourist centres of places like Pafos, Agia Napa or Lemesos (Limasol), you might feel as if you’ve entered a sunny, scorching Essex suburb with lobster-red Brits letting it all hang loose with a lukewarm can of Foster’s in tow. But if curiosity draws you out of the cities, you’ll discover the small villages of the Akamas Peninsula and the heavenly golden beaches of the Karpas (Kırpaşa) Peninsula. Walk the gorgeous Troödos and Kyrenia (Girne) & the Northcoast and inhale the scent of the citrus groves of Morfou (Güzelyurt), or climb to the medieval castles with their shimmering island views. Wander through the sea of wildflowers covering the island in spring, and Cyprus will take your breath away. With good walking shoes, a swimsuit and some sunscreen in your bag, you can have a trip you’ll remember for years.
Last updated: Mar 11, 2009
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Visas for Indian resident in Italy
by abhishekhalder 14 September 2011
Hi all I am an Indian national residing in Milan, Italy since the 8th of September 2011. I have a long term Italian (D Type) STUDY visa…
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Our Top Picks For Cyprus
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1 Gothic Castles
Admire Cyprus from Buffavento and Kantara castles, the Gothic guards of the island
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2 Karpas Peninsula
The island’s last wild paradise, perfect for lovers of nature and flawless beaches
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3 Ancient Salamis
The astonishing archaeological site of one of Ancient Cyprus’ city kingdoms
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4 Agia Napa & Around
Sea, sand and sun at Protaras and Pernera, drink, drink and dance at Agia Napa
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5 Lefkosia/North Nicosia
A fascinating walled city, unspoilt by tourism, and the last divided capital in the world
Fast Facts about Cyprus
- Fast geographical fact
Cyprus is one of Europe’s most southerly ski resorts
- Fast geological fact
Cyprus is an ophiolite – it rose out of the sea (some 20 million years ago)
- Inflation
Republic of Cyprus 3.9%; Northern Cyprus 9.4%
- Population
792,604
- GDP per capita
Republic of Cyprus US$27,100; Northern Cyprus US$13,133
- Third most important industry
cement production and export (after tourism, and food and beverage production). Could this explain the detrimental building frenzy across the island?
Our favourite Cyprus Blogs (beta)
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A Quick Guide to Accommodation in Cyprus
Blog: Pommie Travels - 1 July 2011
Long known as the gateway to the East – the Mediterranean Island of Cyprus offers sea, sand, culture and above all fun to the estimated half a million foreign visitors that stay on the island each year. Visit the ancient Greek and Roman ruins of Salamis and Pophos, the vibrant nightlife of Nicosia and Madeira [...]
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Carnival of Cities for 1 June 2011 – from Abu Dhabi to Athens
Blog: Sophie's World - 1 June 2011
Welcome! I’m happy to host this edition of the Carnival of Cities! After publishing the 18 May 2011 edition on Perceptive Travel Blog, Sheila Scarborough handed the baton to me....Carnival of Cities for 1 June 2011 – from Abu Dhabi to Athens is a post from Sophie's World
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Lady in Cyprus
Blog: A Lady in London - 16 May 2011
Cyprus is a divided country. Greek in the south and Turkish in the north, the Mediterranean island is inhabited by two nations. I was fascinated by Cyprus’ duality when I was in college, and ever since then I have wanted to visit and do some Cyprus sightseeing to learn more about its history and culture. I [...]
