Traditionally seen as a convenient
stepping stone between Europe and the Middle East; Cyprus owes much of
its historic importance to an enviable geographic location. It’s
hardly surprising then that every major power in the region has made a
point of conquering or colonising it at some point. Cyprus’ position
at the maritime crossroads of the Mediterranean has brought religious diversity
and even today plump Orthodox domes compete with slender minarets to define
the skyline.
Cyprus’ dominant religions haven’t always seen eye to eye
and in 1974 the Green Line was drawn across the country to separate the
Turkish North from the Greek South. However, in the more distant past the
island’s tolerance and plurality led to a rich mingling of cultures
and today visitors exploring the island can roam crusader castles, Roman
ruins, Greek temples and Byzantine basilicas; all within the walls of a
single town.
Cyprus has been welcoming visitors for millennia and Cypriots are well-known
for their hospitality. Besides a warm welcome you are guaranteed clear
blue skies and year-round sunshine, as well as stunning beaches and spectacular
scenery. The island’s cultural diversity is perhaps best reflected
in the local cuisine,
which brings together the best elements of Mediterranean cooking. Menus
borrow heavily from their neighbours and you can expect national signature
dishes ranging from meze and mousaka to kebabs and keftethes (all washed
down with copious amounts of retsina and a glass or two of raki).
To help you get the most out of Aphrodite’s birthplace we have written
guides to all the major resorts, highlighted the different activities that
the island has to offer and outlined the main holiday essentials. For those
who fall in love with Cyprus (and decided that they don’t want to
go back) we’ve also included a breakdown of the property
market, some top tips for purchasing a house and a guide to the basics
of buying. If you’re undecided about whether to visit the Turkish
North or
the Greek-Cypriot South;
then we’ll help you make up your mind, and we’ll even point
anyone who wants to book
a room or rent
a car in the right direction. In fact, visiting the island has never
been easier; so what are you waiting for?
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