Cyprus as a tourist destination - Part 4

AYIA NAPA

Ayia Napa was once a simple fishing village that now became a popular beach and party resort with about one million tourists every year. It
is considered the vibrant Nightlife capital of Cyprus and one of the best places in the world for PARTYING. The town is not only a lively clubbing destination but also a place where visitors can enjoy sandy beaches, water-skiing and snorkelling or go sightseeing (there’s a 16th- century monastery nearby).

PARALIMNI / PROTARAS

Protaras is the tourist resort of Paralimni located in the South East of Cyprus within the Famugusta area -only one hour driving from Larnaca International Airport. Protaras is famous for sandy and golden beaches as well as for its nightlife. It is here within this poetic scene that one can still choose between lounging at any of the luxurious hotels with their tempting swimming pools or escaping to the quiet solitude of a lonely stretch of beach for that intimate picnic. The historical tradition continues to be an important feature of the culture of Paralimni and its people whose typical Cypriot hospitality is very much in evidence here. Local residents still practice many of their age-old customs and are always eager to demonstrate some of the traditional farming techniques that have lasted for generations. The merry month of May blooms with all the excitement and pageantry of the much-celebrated flower festival known as the “Anthestiria”, a gala procession of brilliant, flower-decked floats climaxing with a spectacular flower show. The festival of Kataklysmos (Whitsuntide or flood) marks the end of May with the customary songs, dances and playful water games on the beaches of Protaras. For several days in late June music, dance and theatrical performances from around the world thrive at the International Arts Festival as each day offers an exciting new program. For the elite tourist on a beach holiday, Protaras has the distinction of offering a wide range of hotel accommodations from which to choose starting with the small, family-oriented hotel up to the super luxurious hotel and hotel apt, complexes.

LIMASSOL

Limassol is Cyprus’ second-largest city. The main attraction of the town is its Castle and medieval museum. Other sights include the public gardens, a small zoo and an archaeological museum. It also has a busy music scene, from bouzouki taverns to jazz places. There are several points of interest nearby, and the coastal region to the east is scenic. Many fine hotels dot the coast between Limassol and Amathus to the east. Nearby is the 13th-century Kolossi, the beach at Dhassoudi, the Ayios Georgios Convent and the Greco-Roman archaeological site of Curium, where plays and concerts are performed every summer in the ancient theatre. Regional vineyards and wineries abound! ? ou can also use Limassol as a base to visit Troodos mountain villages.