The island of Cyprus is known for her beautiful beaches and turquoise waters. Each year thousands of holidaymakers from chillier climates descend on the island to sunbathe, swim and just generally relax. Cyprus beaches are so inviting that visitors return year after year to hot spots like Ayia Napa, Makronisis, Nissi and Coral Bay. The beaches tend to attract like groups. For example, Coral Bay is a haven for families. The horse shaped inlet bordered by limestone cliffs is truly the classic sandy beach. With its safe swimming and Blue Flag reputation, parents are quite comfortable watching their children swim and play. Coral Bay offers lots of water sports and family friendly activities. Younger children can enjoy the inflatables while their older siblings revel in the diving and water skiing activities. Further down the shore, about a mile east of Ayia Napa, Konnos Bay and Cape Greco await those who want a little quieter environment. The sunsets are breathtaking, and the water is astonishingly clear. You won't need snorkeling equipment to see some fascinating sea life, especially the starfish that abound. Cape Greco is studded with sea caves. Any one of the many boat tours are worth the trip for a close up experience. If water sports are your thing, you'll find them all at Konnos Bay and Cape Greco. You can also rent a speedboat to do your own sightseeing. For the more adventurous, jet skis are also on tap. In the north, Cyprus has miles of scenic coastline, unspoiled beaches and secluded bays and inlets. The natural beauty of the island and particularly the northern coast is truly breathtaking. With the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean on one side and the peaks of the fabled Five Finger mountains on the other side, it's hard to imagine that holidaymakers will not want to return again and again, and many do return, often renting Cyprus villas for a week or two. If you are really looking for something off the beaten track, Cyprus may surprise you. While the island has miles and miles of beach around its perimeter, travelling inland brings you to ski country. Yes, snow skiing country. Cyprus' central interior is extremely rugged and mountainous. The Troodor mountain range offers excellent skiing during the winter. But the wonder of Cyprus is that you can snow ski and get in some beach time in the same day. Moreover, the central plains area is one of the last undiscovered travel destination in the Mediterranean. For the adventurous tourists the hiking trails winding through the rugged terrain are worth the trip. The rural areas that tour guides generally do not put on their schedule brings visitors in touch with traditional Cypriot life in remote villages along the way. Cyprus, since its earliest history, has been inhabited by Romans, Egyptians, Persians, Venetians, Ottomans and Brits. Each of them imparted cultural values that remain a part of the island today. Cultural artifacts from these civilizations can be found throughout the island. Castles and abbey ruins among other things are found particularly in the north. It is this diversity that fascinates tourists and makes Cyprus such an attractive destination, along with the weather in Cyprus of course. Biking sarafis are also a popular event for the whole family. Like hiking trails, bike trails take tourists along some fairly wild countryside, though it is not at all dangerous. It is a fabulous way for visitors to enjoy the stunning scenery along the way. Cyprus can also be a mecca for food lovers who are willing to venture from the more touristy establishments. Cyprus cuisine is heavily influenced by Turkish cuisine, but the type and variety of food offerings appeal to all palates. European, Mediterranean and international cuisine can be found throughout the island. Prices tend to be extremely reasonable compared to prices in other places. Tourists often rave about the bargains that are available. This applies to hotels in Cyprus as well as food. If you have already holidayed in Cyprus, you may want to return to see everything you missed the first time around. If you have not yet made Cyprus a vacation destination, put it on your list of places to go for the year ahead.
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