Facts to know about Cyprus
Known as the birth place of the Olympian Goddess of Love and Beauty, Aphrodite, Cyprus attracts millions of tourists yearly. Situated at the north-eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus is the third largest island in the region. It is a cross road between three continents Africa, Asia and Europe.
Nicosia is the capital of the island and the last divided capital in the world due to the invasion of Turkey in 1974. To pass the border named as the Green Line you have to show your passport and pay a fee.
In North Cyprus are inhabited the Turks and Turkish Cypriots while in South Cyprus, which is a member of the European Union since 2004, are inhabited the Greek Cypriots and many other ethnicities.
Cyprus is a multicultural island and according to recent data the total population of the South part of the island is approximately 888 000 (Demographic Statistics, Cyprus Government, 2019).
The English language is spoken and written widely in South Cyprus, but Greek is the main language spoken. The currency used is Euro. The most widespread religion is Orthodox Christianity and due to the vast amount of churches and monasteries built in Cyprus, wonderful religious trips are been offered to tourists. Cyprus has low crime rate and low cost of living.
Cyprus has five regions, Nicosia, Limassol, Paphos, Larnaca & Famagusta with beautiful towns and villages to explore.
Transportation in Cyprus is very cheap for tourists as there are buses, taxi and car rental services available at main locations. However the most convenient and economic way to see the whole island is to rent a car, as some areas are not accessible by bus or taxi.
A place that always has something to offer
The island is mostly promoted as a beach destination because of the fact there are 65 beaches awarded with the blue flag in 2019.
Rural tourism in Cyprus has being increasing year by year as the island offers infinite beauty, of picturesque traditional villages, lakes, waterfalls and stone bridges. Nature lovers can enjoy the wonderful view from multiple camping sites, while adventure seekers will be thrilled with the numerous activities that the island has to offer. Some of the activities tourists can enjoy in Cyprus are hiking, bicycle tours, and skiing on the Troodos Mountain.
The island is also famous for its unique production of the wine Commandaria where you can taste through numerous wine routes in rural Cyprus. The tasty cheese Halloumi was firstly invented and produced in Cyprus.
Culture lovers can enjoy the rich history of the island, through museums with artefacts since 1050BC and sights such as ancient castles and theatres. Many cultural events are happening yearly such as the Carnival and the Wine Festival in Limassol.
Nevertheless, huge sport events are happening yearly as the Marathon Race and the Cyprus Car Rally. Whereas, the music festival Afrobannana is the favourite among the youth.
Cyprus is also a popular wedding and honeymoon destination.
Last but not the least, you will notice how hospitable the locals are once you set foot in the island.
Visit Cyprus, the island you will never get bored of exploring!
