About Cyprus

The third largest of the Mediterranean islands, Cyprus lies in the East Mediterranean sea, West of Syria and South of Turkey. Cyprus is a fantastic place to visit, boasting clean white beaches and crystal clear waters, there’s no wonder it attracts over 2.4 million tourists every year. Whether you’re looking for high-octane water sports or a relaxing stay at a luxury resort, Cyprus is the ideal place to combine a holiday in the sun with the medical treatment you require.

Cyprus has a population of just under 871,000 people and is in fact the hottest and driest island in the Mediterranean. With 340 days of sunshine a year, cool summer clothes are the most common attire for the daytime, with light jumpers and jackets being the recommended evening and Winter-wear.

Cyprus is well known for being the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, and it is often referred to as “Aphrodite’s island”. Here, visitors will find a rich variety of landscapes, from the pristine beaches of Ayia Napa in the East, to the beautiful mountain ranges of Kyrenia in the North. The Troodos Mountains can be found in the centre of the island, and in the Winter months you will find skiers enjoying the white slopes of the famous Mount Olympus.

Cyprus was once part of the British Empire and obtained independence from the United Kingdom back in 1960. Unfortunately, the inhabitants of Cyprus haven’t always seen eye-to-eye, and in 1964 the country was divided into the Turkish North and the Greek South by a cease-fire line which became known as “The Green Line”. The line runs right through the capital of Cyprus, Nicosia, which is the only divided capital city in the world. Cyprus later became part of the European Union in 2004 and adopted the Euro in early 2008. The main language spoken in Cyprus is Greek, but English is widely spoken throughout the island.

Today, Cyprus is an island of great cultural diversity where visitors are able to explore Roman ruins, Greek temples and crusader castles, particularly in Paphos, which is one of Cyprus’ largest cities. Paphos is included in the official UNESCO list of cultural and natural treasures of world heritage and was once the country’s capital.

A vibrant night life scene can be found in the main towns on the island, with the budding cafe culture of Limassol and Nicosia offering a more relaxed option. Cypriots are happiest when eating so join them for a mezze; a slow banquet of Cypriot delicacies such as grilled halloumi, dolmades and kleftiko (lamb slowly baked till it drops off the bone).