|
|
About Cyprus Cyprus Info Cyprus sits in the easternmost corner of the Mediterranean Sea and, due to its location, enjoys probably one of the best Mediterranean climates. Cyprus, unbelievably, was formed by a huge volcanic eruption where the geological plates of Asia and Africa met under the ocean, which is how its two main mountain ranges, Troodos mountains and the Kyrenia mountain range, were formed. Positioned within the crossroads of Western & Eastern civilization, its local architecture and way of life take on the best of what the two worlds have to offer. It is a place where everybody feels at home. Its excellent infrastructure, high quality of life, low cost of living and generous tax incentives attract people from all over the world. Cyprus, the third largest island in the Mediterranean, covers an area 9,251 square kilometres with a small population of just under 800,000. The capital of the island is Nicosia, otherwise known to the locals as Lefkosia. Other major cities of the island include Limassol (Lemesos), Paphos and Larnaca. Mountainous villages, crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, green valleys, sunshine 365 days a year and, most importantly of all, the hospitality of local people are just a handful of reasons why Cyprus is becoming the number one destination for people who want to purchase a property. Being at the crossroads of three continents, Europe, Asia and Africa, Cyprus is proud to hold many historical sites of the world, dating back to over 9000 years, due to civilians leaving their mark on the island and contributing to the development of a very rich and diverse cultural heritage. Useful points about Cyprus at a glance: Capital - Nicosia (Lefkosia) Population - 758,385 Religion - Greek Orthodox in the south Language - Greek Voltage - 240 volts Plugs - 3 pin plugs Roads - In Cyprus they drive on the left hand sdie, the same as the UK Telephone Codes - +357 for south Cyprus, +44 to call the UK from Cyprus Time Difference - 2 hours ahead of the UK (+2 GMT) European Member - Yes Anyone arriving in the south of Cyprus is allowed access to the north side provided the expiry date of their passport has more than three months left to run. Any visitor arriving on the north side of Cyprus is not permitted to enter the south side. Therefore, to make the most of travelling around Cyprus, it is advisable to start your visit from the south side. Paphos Info Paphos, the former capital, lies on the western coast of the island and is proud to be included in the official Unesco list of cultural and national treasures, produced by National World Heritage. Close to Paphos is the place where, as legend has it, Aphrodite, Goddess of Love and Beauty, came out of the sea foam. This area is called 'Petra Tou Romiou' or 'The Rock Of Greek' and is named after the legendary frontier guard of Byzantium who kept the marauding Saracens at bay with amazing strength. It is said that he heaved the large rock into the sea, destroying the enemy ships. Also, some 30km east of Paphos, close to the picturesque village of Latchi, are the baths of Aphrodite, where the beautiful goddess regularly bathed. The grotto, which boasts its continuous waterfall, is extremely popular with tourists who visit the island. Tomb of The Kings is another legendary site, preserved by World Heritage. Other highlights are the thrid century AD mosaic floors of Dionysus and Theses and the Byzantine Castle of Paphos. For the sporting visitor the area has all the water sports you could need. From paragliding and scuba diving, to waterskiing and jetskiing, or at a more relaxed pace, snorkelling and pedalos. All of which are available around the coastline of Paphos. Sailing boats leave the harbour every day with outstanding, well organised trips to Coral Bay, Laura Beach (famous for its turtles) and the Akamas Peninsula. Three golf courses are about a twenty minute drive from Paphos and another is planned. Aphrodite Hills, the latest course, is one of the finest in the Mediterranean. Horse riding and jeep safaris are also very popular.
|



