Cyprus

An island whose rich dramatic history can be traced back over nine thousand years. Today’s experience of Cyprus can be as varied and rewarding as the geography of the island itself. Wonderful five-star resorts within, walking distance of well-preserved Greek and Roman ruins, offer every facility the modern traveller has come to expect and more.

One of the most impressive archaeological sites, the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion, overlooks a magnificent stretch of beaches with a sparkling blue sea beyond. Along the island’s sun-kissed coastline, from Agia Napa in the east to Pafos in the west, world-class beach resorts alternate with settings untouched since ancient times.

Along the route that leads from the port city of Lemesos (Limassol) to Pafos, the roadway opens up to reveal a stunning stretch of coastline where chalky white cliffs stand watch over an aquamarine sea.

Throughout Cyprus, sophisticated cities have successfully balanced ancient and modern. The capital, Lefkosia (Nicosia), is surrounded by Venetian walls with heart-shaped bastions; Near the harbour at Pafos are the Roman floor mosaics of the Houses of Aion, Achilles and Dionysus, their depictions of mythological scenes amazingly well preserved.

The perfect location, of course, never goes out of style. With such a historic and legendary background it is hardly surprising that it has developed a character that is quite unique.

The island is an independent country, 97 km west of Syria and 64 km west of Turkey nestled into the eastern Mediterranean Sea and a stepping-stone to three continents. It is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean and an ideal starting point for the discovery of other exotic locations such as the Greek Islands, Egypt and the Middle East – in fact, mini-cruises set off for these places from Cyprus almost every day. But close as Cyprus may be to the world’s centre stage, it is a unique place that can feel blissfully apart from it all.

Weather in Cyprus

Warm Mediterranean climate. Hot, dry summers with mild winters during which rainfall is most likely. April/May and September/October – are the most pleasant times, climatically, to visit. Summer – June to August – can be very hot, and winter is sometimes wet but still pleasant.

Restaurants & Food in Cyprus

Major resorts have bars and restaurants in every category. At larger hotels, the indigenous cuisine tends to have an international flavour although authentic local dishes may also be available. All over the island, there are restaurants offering genuine Cypriot food. Charcoal-grilled meat is very popular, as is fresh seafood. Coffee is Greek-style (short, strong and unfiltered), though cappuccino is available in most restaurants and bars. A 10% charge is added to most restaurant bills; if not, then a tip of a similar percentage is expected.

Accommodation in Cyprus

An assorted range of accommodation is available, from cosy tourism villas in the hill towns to three, four and five-star hotel resorts. Hotel visitors will generally find modern, up to date facilities, contemporary room furnishings and a high level of service customary in the Mediterranean region. Most international hotels (three or more stars) have at least one swimming pool and usually at least one restaurant. The Cyprus Tourism Organisation approves the rates charged by these establishments. Most operations offer special off-season discounts on the accommodation rates, usually during the period from the 16th November to the 15th March, excluding the fortnight between the 20th December and 6th January.

Weddings in Cyprus

One of the popular European destinations for a wedding is in Cyprus. The similarity between Cyprus and the UK makes it the ideal choice for brides looking for guaranteed sunshine on their wedding day. Whether it is a beach wedding or a romantic wedding in Cypriot countryside, it has every venue to offer for a wedding abroad.

Obtaining a marriage license is fairly easy and can be done without a charge in person at the registrar’s office 15 days before the wedding or with a cost and permission granted to marry within 2 -3 days of the application. You will need to take with you the following documents to the Marriage office and complete the necessary forms. You will also be required to swear on oath that there is no impediment to the marriage. You will also need to make a sworn declaration in front of the Registrar of a District Court that you are single.

Wedding legal requirements for Cyprus; Full birth certificates for both bride and groom showing both parents names, Passports, if divorced documents showing final divorce, if widowed the death certificate of the former husband or wife, if you have changed your name you will be required to provide documents proving the change of name, if you have been adopted you will be required to provide adoption certificates.

Honeymoons in Cyprus

Cyprus offers the perfect destination for Brides and grooms not wishing to travel too far after a UK wedding. The island of offers a huge selection of accommodation for every budget and with daily flights makes it easily accessible. Some hotels offer special promotions for Honeymoon couples such as room upgrades and fruit and sparkling wine on arrival in their room. Honeymoon suites or Boutique hotels are all available. 

Driving in Cyprus

Driving in Cyprus is most advisable as regular transport service is not available to all remote areas where many places of interest are to be found. Four lane motorways connect the capital, Lefkosia with the coastal towns of Lemesos, Larnaka and one part of Pafos. Visitors in Cyprus can drive using a valid International driving license, or their National driving license, Cyprus has become a member of the Green Card System and has signed the Uniform Agreement with all Countries of the European Economic Area and Switzerland, with effect from the 7th August 1997.

Traffic drives on the left not on the right. International road traffic signs are in use, distances and road speed limits are posted in kilometers. The maximum speed limit on the motorways is 100 km/h and the lower speed limit is 65 km/h. On all other roads the general speed limit is 80 km/h, unless a lower one is indicated. In built-up areas generally the speed limit is 50km/h, unless a different one is indicated.

Go easy Travel has arranged the best value Car Rentals in Cyprus for you. To get your free quotation please email your dates or check out our rates online.

Golf holiday in Cyprus

If you love your golf then you will love Cyprus. Golfing in Cyprus in the winter months can be a very pleasant experience and the courses offer a challenge to all levels of golfers. Call goeasy travel for you tailor made quotation.

Essential Facts on Cyprus

Capital City – Nicosia
Currency – euro
Electricity 230V
Flight time average from London 4.5hours
Time difference – March 27 to October 30 GMT + 3 hours, otherwise GMT +2 hours
For more information visit the Cyprus Tourist Board
Country Cyprus
Languages spoken English Cypriot
Currency Euro
Visa requirements Nationals of the USA, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa and the EU can stay in the Republic of Cyprus for up to three months without a visa. If you entered Cyprus in the North (ie, from Turkey), it is illegal to cross to the Republic. Travel from the Republic to the North on a day trip is legal and straightforward. It’s also illegal to travel from the Republic to the North and to then continue to Turkey. You cannot take luggage with you across the Green Line. Travelers may enter the Republic only through the legal ports of entry: Larnaka and Pafos international airports, or the ports of Larnaka, Lemesos and Pafos.