Cyprus

The third largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus stretches 150 miles (240 km) from the west coast to its easternmost tip and 60 miles (96 km) from north to south.

An island chosen by the mythical gods and goddesses of Ancient Greece who indulged themselves here in sport pleasure and tragedy; where Aphrodite goddess of love and beauty, emerged from the Pafos foam to become a famous cult figure-centre of attraction for the first visitors who flocked to the island to worship her. With such historic and legendary background it is hardly surprising that Cyprus has developed a character, which is quite unique.

It is blessed with beauty, natural beauty that ranges from golden beaches and rugged coastlines to rolling hills and forest-clad mountains, dotted with picturesque Villages.

Weather

The climate of Cyprus never fails to delight her visitors, and every season has a charm and beauty of its own. In summer, sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters beckon swimmers and provide the prefect conditions for dialing, skiing and all water sports under the sun. As the land mellows in autumn there is a wonderful clarity of air on those balmy days, still warmed by the brilliant Cyprus sun.

The sea temperature is still high after the long hot summer, and for some this is the best season of all The Cyprus winter is short and mild, with average daytime temperatures around 16. This season brings some much-needed rain to the land, but most of its days are bright and sunny. And there is a short snow season on the mountains from January to March. In springtime the island takes enchanting beauty. The countryside is set ablaze as glorious with flowers and fragrant blossoms burst into life to delight the eye with their stunning colours.

Bright poppies, yellow daisies and pastel anemonies present their myriad colours fields. In fact with 1500 different species of flowers, Cyprus is a paradise for nature lovers. As the days lengthen and the sun gathers strength. Cyprus enters an idyllic season for walks, leisurely picnics and the fascinating contemplation of nature, not forgetting, of course, swimming and sunbathing.

It’s People

The people of Cyprus are traditionally warm and welcoming and consider a visit to their island as a compliment-one thaYs repaid with qenuine hospitality, summed up in the Greek word Philoxenia: Friendship towards the guest. Their naïve tongue is Greek, English is readily spoken in all the shops, restaurants and hotels – in fact just about everywhere. In a world of ever-increasing violence, Cyprus has a remarkably low crime rate, and from just one visit to the island the visitor can understand why. The pace is leisurely, the people kind and helpful, always ready with a smile.

The Cypriots are hard workers too – resilient people who have withstood and accommodated the succession of invaders throughout their long history.

Entertainment

Nightlife on the island caters to every mood and every age. There are trendy discos and sophisticated nightclubs. There’s ample opportunity to dine and dance romantically under the stars. You won’t have a problem finding anywhere to eat. Restaurants of all varieties, from cutesy olde tavernas to fat food joints are plentiful throughout the island. There are plenty of charming fish tavernas by the sea and numerous restaurants serving Chinese, Arabic, European and Indian food.

Places of interest

Protaras has a wonderful natural environment, which combines clear sea, with charming landscape and rich vegetation. Thus, as soon as the development of tourism began, it became a magnet for investors and tourist enterprises. In recent years there has been a tremendous increase in the service sectors with many tourist services having been created in Paralimni such as town centers, restaurants, shops, etc. as well as handicrafts which have developed in to industries.

Today Paralimni with its high standard of living and high per capita income is a thriving little town of some quaint, nostalgic aw well tranquil beauty to the landscape of today. On the magnificent beaches, attractive centers have been in operation for many years.

Dherynia is a village next to Paralimni and Protaras. The village has three interesting churches, the small domed 17th century church of Agios Georgios, the 15th century Agia Marina church, and a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary with excellent 17th century icons. The views from this village also include, the ‘ghost’ city of Famagusta, now under occupation of the Turkish army.