|
Cyprus Vacations, Luxury Cruises, Hotels and Resorts
APHRODITE'S ISLAND
The charms of "Aphrodite's Island," as Cyprus is known, are manifold and manifest. The weather is sunny and dry for a good part of the year and the sea is enticing, blue and crystal clear. Cyprus has picturesque mountain villages, remote monasteries, crusaders' castles, exquisite Roman mosaics and imposing temples. The tiny Byzantine churches tucked away in the folds of foothills contain unforgettable masterpieces by artists often long forgotten.
![Anassa From Sea Image [12k]](http://www.travelwizard.com/europe/media/anscoast.jpg)
Cyprus is the third-largest Mediterranean island after Sicily and Sardinia. Those seeking isolation can find it even during peak season, if they are willing to wander off the beaten track. In recent years, the government has launched a number of programs to encourage the preservation of traditional communities, especially in the interior. Cyprus has a homey charm, innate in the character of the friendly locals who have never lost their enthusiasm for welcoming visitors.
Cyprus is also known as the "Island of Love," largely due to the legacy of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love. It is steeped in romantic settings, and its fine cuisine and wine lend themselves to the pursuit of hedonistic pleasures. Even more telling is a love of life, which lies deep within the soul of the Cypriot, embracing good company and camaraderie.
Although Cyprus is quite prosperous, and the island's inhabitants enjoy a relatively high standard of living, one is tempted to say that the simple pleasures of family life and authentic hospitality are more important than material gain. Emphasis in this guide is on steering you to places where you will have the opportunity to meet and talk to Cypriots, with the firm belief that person-to-person contact is a meaningful part of a visit to another country.
A concerted effort has been made to develop tourism in a thoughtful manner, although some participants have succumbed to the flashier aspects. Many potential visitors view Cyprus only as a sea, sun and fun spot. They may be pleasantly surprised when they discover the vast store of historical treasures and natural wonders that await them. In recent years, the Cyprus Tourism Organization (CTO),
tour operators, and the press have encouraged visits by people interested in exploring unspoiled areas. Wherever possible, stress in this guide has been placed on the appreciation and preservation of the natural environment. The formation of national parks on the Akamas Peninsula in the Paphos District, Athalassa in the Nicosia District, and Cape Greco in the Famagusta District will go a long way to wards establishing firmer controls over a precious heritage.
The proximity to and occupation by a variety of cultures has left a definite imprint on the Cypriot lifestyle. A proper British cream tea in a mountain village can be followed by a Mediterranean-style siesta. Spending the evening in Nicosia, it is possible to have a dinner of Cypriot specialties with Middle Eastern origins, such as talatouri and houmous, while listening to the call of the muezzin (announcer of hours of prayer) from a mosque in northern Cyprus. The Turkish sector is just across the "Green Line" separating the last divided capital in Europe.
Yes, bitter lemons are found among the blossoms on Cyprus. The pain of the division in 1974 and its continued schism is a prevalent aspect of island life. It will not hinder your appreciation of all the joys Cyprus has to offer, but it is a sad reality that cannot be ignored.
|
