Cyprus is a European country belonging to the Asian continent, boasting a mild climate all year round. Found at the centre of the Eastern Mediterranean basin, the island is close to the Middle East coast. This strategic location has been the object of envy of various regional powers. There are two mountain ranges -- Troodos and Pendadhaktylos – along with Masaoria, a vast plain that marks a significant part of the country’s terrain. Nicosia, the capital, is at the centre of the plain that forms the principal agricultural zone of the island.
Plenty of nighttime entertainment is available on Cyprus, such as traditional restaurants and taverns in both villages and cities, known for their bouzouki players. In cities such as Nicosie, Larnaka, Paphos, Limassol and Ayia Napa, nightlife enthusiasts can choose from many different establishments. In Ayia recreational activities such as bungee jumping, parasailing, jet skiing and party cruises, are offered by Waterworld.
Visitors can choose from a wide range of accommodation as the Island of Cyprus has many 1 to 5 star hotels, each with a unique service. Cypriot cuisine is varied, with many dishes based on a range of local ingredients, namely fruits, vegetables and spices.
Aphrodite, goddess of love
The island is mentioned in Greek Mythology, playing a role in many legends. According to some accounts, Aphrodite, goddess of love, was born from seafoam given off by Zephir on the shores of Cyprus.
Getting closer to nature
Cypriot wildlife is similar to the wildlife of Syria, but the only large mammal living in the Troodos National Forest Park, one of the dazzling botanic gardens of the island, is the mouflon (a wild sheep). Flamingos winter here during the coldest months of the year, settling around the salt lakes of Lamaka and Akrotiri.
The mountains are inhabited by vultures, falcons and eagles. In summer, sea turtles lay eggs on the protected beaches of Paphos. 168 species of birds, 12 insects and animals and 20 reptiles, along with the butterfly, whose native Glaucopsyche of Paphos is considered a symbol of the island, are all part of the roster of wildlife on the island.
The plantlife of Cyprus is an important part of the mythology. The Greeks call Cyprus the island of perfume. 1,750 plant species exist, with examples such as pine nymphs or the blueberry of Venus, flowering plants bloom in the spring. 770 varieties of plants can be found in the Troodos National Forest Park. A dozen trails, totaling 50 kilometres in length, are open to hikers to observe nature; the Artemis trail at 1,850 metres above sea level and 7 kilometres in length and the Atalanti trail, 12 kilometres long and reaching a height of 1,700 to 1,750 metres above sea level, to name a few.
Budget for a week: About 500€
Taxes and Gratuity: 10% gratuity is already included in bills.
Currency: Euro
Official and/or Spoken Languages: Greek, Turkish
Telephone Code: +357
Other names: Republic of Cyprus
Capital: Nicosia
Electricity: 240V - 50Hz
1 type of electrical plug: Type G English style with 3 rectangular prongs. BS-1363 13A
Visa: No visa is necessary but a passport or identity card for Swiss citizens or citizens of The European Union (up to 3 months). A passport for Canadians (1 month). There can be some difficulties on the Turkish side!
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