cyprus overview

Cyprus, the most easterly of the Mediterranean islands and the third largest after Sicily and Sardinia. With it's excellent climate, famous historical sites spanning a 9,000 year old heritage, extreme natural beauty and warm friendly people, it lives up to the title of the jewel of the Mediterranean. In ancient times Cyprus was a trading post which led to many cultures leaving their imprints for us to follow.

The wealth of the Island is derived from trade, although staple Mediterranean cash-crops such as olives, fruit and vegetables further boost economic activity. With centuries of tradition and the blending of cultures, Cyprus is a rich source of antiquity and political intrigue.

Where is Cyprus?

Just 40 miles from the coast of Turkey, located at the crossroads of four different continents and cultures (Europe to the West, Russia and Eastern European States to the North, the Middle Eastern countries to the East and Africa to the South). The Island of Cyprus has a total land area of 9,250 sq km. and 648km of coastline.

This unique geographic position, combined with the widely spoken English language, British based legal system (upholding the rights of the individual), and attractive tax laws, has encouraged many large companies to set up their headquarters on the Island. Now with EU membership, the attraction to make the move to Cyprus is greatly enhanced. Since 1974, the Island has been divided into the North (TRNC. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) and the South (Republic of Cyprus). The South is inhabited by Greek Cypriots whilst the North is largely inhabited by Turkish Nationals and Turkish Cypriots. Despite UN intervention Cyprus remains divided.

Currency

The currency of Cyprus is the Cyprus Pound, a member of the Exchange Rate Mechanism, which at the time of writing is worth about 1.21 Sterling. Also known as the Republic of Cyprus, the Island joined the European Union on the 1st of May 2004. The Government is the internationally recognized authority on the island although in practice its control extends only to the Greek Cypriot southern part. The intention is to join the Euro in 2008. There is serious discussion amongst Cyprus financial institutions with regard to a devaluation of the Cyprus Pound prior to joining. This would give an instant boost in Sterling value if the property is funded in Cyprus Pounds. There is a commitment to adopt the Euro from the beginning of 2008, and as such the Cyprus Pound is a member of the Exchange Rate Mechanism.

Pensions - Tax Advantage

If you are retired, as a British citizen relocating to Cyprus and having your pension paid there, it will only be taxed at 5% by the Ministry of Finance, this very definite tax advantage gains you an immediate 17% rise in income!

Legal System

Buying property in Cyprus is highly regulated, being based on the British System. The Cyprus Land Registry is one of the most advanced in Europe.

Medical Care

Medical care and insurance is far more economical than in the UK. Cyprus provides advanced medical care at comparatively low rates. British citizens in possession of an E111 card or EHIC card are entitled to free healthcare. For residents and non residents alike private medical care starts at around Cyp130.00 per annum. The majority of doctors in Cyprus hospitals are trained in the UK or the USA, so the level of healthcare is very high.

Safe Haven

Called the most crime free society in Europe, Cyprus, according to European Union statistics has a crime rate of only 16% of that in the average European Country. This contributes to making Cyprus one of the safest places in Europe to live.

Travel

Cyprus is served by two international airports; one located near to Paphos, the other (now undergoing a massive extension to handle the forecasted increase in travellers) is near to Larnaca. There are several daily flights between Cyprus and most major worldwide destinations. A flight time from most UK airports is about 4.5 hours.

Cypriots drive on the left, making driving on the Island a home from home for UK visitors. Roads are in the main well constructed and traffic is light, making travel an easy and pleasant pastime.

Cost Of Living

Cyprus remains relatively cheap for eating and drinking. The quality of food and wine is excellent. Romantic tavernas beckon, offering delicious homemade dips and traditional Greek menus, whilst for those of you who prefer to sip your favourite cocktail instead of ouzo or zivania, or enjoy international cuisine instead of fresh fish and souvla (barbeque) there are many first rate cosmopolitan restaurants and yes, the good old British pubs, all with superb al fresco dining.

Weather

Climatic conditions in Cyprus are excellent from a health point of view. Therefore, the climate is ideal for holiday travelers throughout the year. In excess of 340 days of sunshine, Cyprus offers an all year holiday destination, with mild wet winters and hot sultry summer days. From sun worshipping to winter snow skiing in the magnificent Troodos Mountains, Cyprus caters for all tastes.

cyprus – a tour of the major cities

Nicosia

Nicosia lies in the middle of the central plain of Cyprus. It is the largest town on the Island since the middle Ages, with a present population of about 206,000. Since tourism in Cyprus is mainly focused on the coastal regions, approximately 47% of the Island's industrial units are located around the Cypriot capital. The capital Nicosia or Lefkosia is centrally located and consists of a new and old town combined in a cosmopolitan whole.

The new town spreads around the old and consists of wide streets, modern shops, banks, hotels, squares and diverse restaurants. Nicosia is home to the government departments and has evolved with the times establishing itself as the Middle East centre for International Conferences. The old town is enclosed within the famous Venetian walls, built in the 16th century, which are the characteristic monuments of the capital. Narrow labyrinthine streets and neighbourhoods make up the old town, housing market stalls displaying traditional handmade crafts, fresh foods and textiles.

The three main coastal resorts are Paphos, Limassol and Larnaca.

Paphos

Situated to the West of the Island, Paphos is the most mature area as a tourist resort. This is reflected in the property prices which are up to 30% higher than the surrounding areas. Paphos is home to Aphrodite Hills, the internationally acclaimed golf course, and also Secret Valley Golf course, a challenging golf course offering excellent clubhouse facilities including a golf academy.

There are many historic sites, such as the House of Dionysus, with its beautiful mosaics, and the famous Tombs of the Kings. Paphos was once the Roman capital of Cyprus, so the surrounding area is steeped in history. Aphrodite's Rock lies approximately 15 km East of Paphos, where the Goddess of Love is said to have risen from the foaming waves, whilst to the North East rise the majestic Troodos mountain range, with breathtaking views. The coastline is stunning, the beaches stretch for mile after golden mile, making Paphos a major tourist magnet.

Limassol

The second largest town and the largest seaside resort in Cyprus, with a population of around 160,000 people. In the centre of Limassol is the old town with its narrow, busy streets and old Arcontika architecture which is currently being restored.

Limassol is the gateway to the mountains and the departure point for mini cruises to Egypt and the Holy Land. Dark sandy beaches, coastal boardwalks and safe swimming, make Limassol an attractive resort all year round. An old port graces one end of the resort, with Limassol Castle close by at the end of the seafront. Street markets entice the tourist with leather goods, jewellery and pottery. Competition is fierce so prices are good! This is a cosmopolitan resort with some of the best hotels in Cyprus and a large range of restaurants, bars, night clubs and shops to be found along the tourist strip.

Limassol has two major annual events, the Spring Carnival in March and the Wine Festival held in September, both attracting a growing number of tourists each year.

Within easy reach are the beaches of Pissouri and Governor's, as is the enormous beach at the ancient kingdom of Curium, mountain villages are set in the midst of vineyards, nearby Kolossi renowned as the headquarters of the Knights Templar and St John of Jerusalem.

Larnaca

The third largest town in Cyprus with a population of around 72,000 was once the major port of Cyprus, illustrated in the wealth of colonial buildings gracing the old town. The exporting of salt originally brought great revenues to the town. The Larnaca Salt lakes are famous for the migrating flamingos arriving in November and leaving the shores in February time.

Larnaca is the home to the International Airport of Cyprus, a modern harbour, a marina with the capacity for 200 yachts, and a tourist area to the East with many modern hotels and apartments. Close to the highway, Larnaca makes an ideal base from which to visit Nicosia, Ayia Napa, Limassol and Paphos.

Larnaca is said to be the city of Kition, the second home of Lazarus, persecuted by the Jews and appointed first Bishop of Kition by St Barnabus. Larnaca houses one of the finest examples of Byzantine architecture in the church of Ayios Lazarus, the resting place of St Lazarus, friend of Christ. Other local historic sites of interest are the mediaeval fort on the seafront, now a museum, and the mosque of the Sultan Halle Tekke, by the salt lakes.

Ayia Napa

Lively resort at the far eastern end of the south coast of the island, famous for its sandy beaches and great selection of watersports that are on offer.All the beaches in this resort are supervised by The Cyprus Tourism Organisation and have been awarded with the EU blue flag for their level of cleanliness and the comprehensive facilities offered. The best beaches to visit are Nissi beach, which has cystal clear water and white sand, it is one of the busiest beaches, so maybe not the best one to go to if you want to just relax. Harbour beach, Pantahou beach, Limanaki and New Golden Bay are also worth a visit.

In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' . The Square is filled with shops, restaurants and clubs and is definitely the place to be seen.

Just a 10 minute drive from the resort is Cape Greco - a beautiful and picturesque part of the island.