Business Partner CYPRUS

FROM THE AMBASSADOR’S DESK

Explore Aphrodite's Island With The Cypriot Ambassador

H.E. DEMETRIOS A. THEOPHYLACTOU, Ambassador Of Cyprus To Serbia

There are just a handful of places on the planet that offer travellers such a wide diversity of opportunities. The Mediterranean has myriad islands, but only one that's called home by Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love 2

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ituated at the crossroads of ancient civilisations, encompassing an area of 9,000 square kilometres and characterised by 9,000 years of culture and 11,000 years of history, Cyprus is the right island for the special interest traveller, but also the adventurous holidaymaker. It is a place to explore and discover unique leisure opportunities, to enjoy wonderful experiences and be tempted to try something

new. With the favourable Mediterranean climate adding to the pleasure, Cyprus is the ideal destination throughout the year.

With its rich history as an anchor, Cyprus is also a thriving modern nation with a service economy that’s second to none across the whole region. Moreover, the Cypriot people, who are worldly and warm, are only too happy to share the beauty and charm of their island with visitors. Travellers can choose from an attractive range of

accommodation, such as luxurious hotels with both local flavour and the highest international standards, quality tourist villas, agro tourism options and more.

The island is surprisingly compact and easy to explore. Between rugged mountain peaks and the shimmering coast, the special interest tourist will traverse pristine landscapes and rolling hills adorned with vineyards. Linger in idyllic villages, where the rhythm slows and there’s always time for another coffee. All across Cyprus you’ll have the opportunity to experience a distinctive cuisine composed of meze, small plates of everything from flame-grilled, delicately spicedmeatstofreshvegetablesandamazing cheeses, such as the famous halloumi (the savoury sheep’s cheese that can be grilled).

Whatever tempo you desire or special interest you have, Cyprus is uniquely poised to welcome you. Our beaches are not only beautiful, but also certified as being among the cleanest in Europe. And just a short drive from the crystal clear waters of our coast are the pine-clad Troodos Mountains, where wild mouflons roam and cedars grow, and gem-like churches and monasteries are replete with unrivalled Byzantine frescoes and icons. The Serbian traveller, in particular, will feel at home, as Cyprus is an ethereal and blessed land, with an impressive number of religious monuments that tell the story of the island’s path to Christianity. Beautiful Orthodox churches and monasteries, rooted in the strong Christian tradition, blend wonderfully with the island’s natural beauty, offering a unique experience to enjoy.

Cyprus is also a haven for lovers of archaeology. Indeed, it is an endless source of fascination for archaeology enthusiasts.

With Neolithic settlements that date back more than 11,000 years old, spectacular Greco-Roman ruins, such as the ancient theatre of Kourion, and medieval fortresses such as Kolossi, the list of treasures is endless and also includes the mysterious Tombs of the Kings, villas with colourful mosaic floors that are extensive and well-preserved. The island is studded with ancient Greek and Roman ruins, as well as sites dating back to the Neolithic period.

The Roman period of the Bronze Age and the Byzantine period are both particularly well represented on the island.

There is certainly more to Cyprus than cultural treasures, however. Its natural landscapes and sunny climate provide the ideal setting for nature trails, adventure sports, cycling and mountain biking, bird-watching,

With Neolithic settlements that date back more than 11,000 years old, spectacular Greco-Roman ruins, such as the ancient theatre of Kourion, and medieval fortresses such as Kolossi, the list of treasures is endless and also includes the mysterious Tombs of the Kings, villas with colourful mosaic floors that are extensive and well-preserved

hiking, rock climbing, underwater exploration and more. Set in the azure waters of the eastern Mediterranean, Aphrodite’s island is ready to welcome you regardless of the reason you’ve travelled here.

With this brief introduction, I would like to welcome you to the beautiful island of Cyprus, with its unparalleled history and culture, influenced by numerous civilisations and offering a unique mosaic of tastes to the special interest traveller. On the following pages, I will enable you to discover Cyprus and learn more about its natural beauty and archaeological treasures, while I will let you tailor your visit by selecting the interests and experiences that best suit you. Most importantly, I will let you choose your preferences, the time of year you would like to visit, and even your budget, by selecting among the ample opportunities on offer to experience something new, educational and exciting.

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HISTORY AND CULTURE

Ancient Roots Of World Heritage Cyprus has a long history and a rich culture, making it one of the oldest civilisations in the Mediterranean – as evidenced by the many fascinating cultural sights, museums, monuments and galleries

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his island’s unique geographic position has inevitably played an important part in its turbulent past, dating back to antiquity. Its prehistoric inhabitants were joined 3,500 years ago

by Mycenaean Greeks, who introduced and established their own civilisation, thus permanently instilling the island’s Greek roots.

Many other cultures followed, including Phoenicians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Romans, Franks, Venetians, Ottomans and British.

The island is a veritable open-air museum of prehistoric settlements, classical

Greek temples, Roman theatres and villas, Early Christian basilicas, Byzantine churches and monasteries, Crusader castles, Gothic cathedrals, Venetian fortifications, Muslim mosques and British colonial-style buildings, yet it has also managed to preserve its picturesque villages. UNESCO has added three of the island’s sites to its list of World Heritage Sites, including the painted churches in the Troodos region, Aphrodite’s legendary birthplace in Paphos and the Neolithic settlement of Choirokoitia.

Kourion theatre

UNESCO has added three of the island's sites to its list of World Heritage Sites, including the painted churches in the Troodos region, Aphrodite's legendary birthplace in Paphos and the Neolithic settlement of Choirokoitia 4

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ECCLESIASTICAL TOURISM AND CULTURE

Orthodox Brethren Celebrate The Island Of Saints From both an historical and a religious perspective, Cyprus is the island of beauty. According to Greek mythology, it was here that Aphrodite was born, while the island was chosen to be the first place to receive the great message of the new faith upon the advent of Christianity

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erbian travellers have a special sentiment when it comes to Cyprus, as it is an ethereal and blessed land, with an impressive number of religious monuments, including beautiful Greek Orthodox monasteries that tell the story of the island’s path to Christianity. The Orthodox connection between Serbia and Cyprus is strong, with common religious and historical roots linking, for example,Vatopedi Monastery on Mount Athos (Agio Oros) with Saint Sava or Serbia. Indeed, the connection of spiritual cultural heritage between Hilandar Monastery and Vatopedi Monastery is ever-present. With this in mind, it is no coincidence, from both an historical and a religious perspective, that Cyprus is the island of beauty. According to Greek mythology, it was here that Aphrodite was born, while the island was chosen to be the first place to receive the great message of the new faith upon the advent of Christianity.

The island became the gateway through which the message of the Gospels spread the length and breadth of the Ecumene.

The first mission of the apostles Paul and Barnabas (the latter of Cypriot descent) occurred here, in accordance with the will and wish of God: “...being sent forth by the

Agios Lazaros Church, Larnaka

The island became the gateway through which the message of the Gospels spread the length and breadth of the Ecumene. The first mission of the apostles Paul and Barnabas (the latter of Cypriot descent) occurred here, in accordance with the will and wish of God: “...being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus” (Acts 12, 4) Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus” (Acts 12, 4).

This divine ‘choice’ – simultaneously a decoration and an endowment for the country – is expressed through the many monuments dedicated to prayer and devotion, but also through the plethora of holy

men connected with this saintly island, thus endowing it with the expression ‘Cyprus the island of saints’. Discover the churches, chapels and monasteries of the island that are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and immerse yourself in their journey of faith, history and culture.

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HAVEN OF SPECIAL INTERESTS

From Hiking And Cycling To Wine And Medicine Naturally, the island's coast is home to an abundance of yachting and cruising activities, where private yachts are available to hire, either with or without a crew. Scuba diving, along with sailing courses and diving schools with qualified instructors, make for a great active holiday, even offering the possibility of earning certified qualifications. All of these activities, alongside the ever-popular waterskiing, surfboarding and paragliding, truly enrich the mosaic of leisure activities available on the island

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alking along the island’s numerous beautiful nature trails is extremely popular, as are horse riding and cycling holidays, with a clutch of riding schools offering lessons and supervised riding along the coast and in the countryside. Those who enjoy nature trails may join like-minded

visitors or locals in observing the flora and fauna of Cyprus or attending guided bird watching sessions, with the option of finding accommodation in rural agro tourism lodges in the tranquillity of the villages.

There are also popular tours of the wineries situated along the island’s Wine Routes in the winemaking areas, where

Cyprus boasts more than 80 private hospitals, with highly qualified medical teams catering to all specialities, from general surgery to plastic surgery, cardiology, paediatrics and more 6

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visitors can learn about winemaking processes and sample some of the excellent produce. There are many small regional wineries producing award-winning wines, not to mention Commandaria, the honey sweet wine that’s been produced in Cyprus for hundreds of years and is well worth sampling.

Visitors interested in archaeological sites will find lots to explore throughout the island, as well as many ancient monasteries and churches. Those interested in the study of the fascinating geology of Cyprus won’t be disappointed either. Cyprus was once a centre of copper mining, from which the island is thought to have derived its name. Interest in mining for copper ore has been revived in recent times, with the introduction of modern extraction methods.

The flourishing medical tourism industry is also particularly interesting. Cyprus boasts more than 80 private hospitals, with highly qualified medical teams catering to all specialities, from general surgery to plastic surgery, cardiology, paediatrics and more. Private dentistry, which is provided by over 700 dentists, is often cheaper than in most northern countries.

Here golfers can find a year-round destination to enjoy their sport, with a high standard of courses and accommodation available. The increasing interest in this sector has been remarkable. Without any exaggeration, there really is something for everyone in Cyprus, throughout the year.

CONFERENCES & INCENTIVES

Bridging Continents, Connecting Nations Cyprus is an ideal destination for meetings, conferences, conventions and exhibitions, due to its ideal position in the Mediterranean and, mainly, because of the excellent facilities and services offered

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bridge between three continents – Europe, Africa and Asia – Cyprus attracts thousands of businesspeople from around the world, who come to combine business and pleasure. It is a preferred MICE travel destination for executives who prefer the island among other competitive destinations, primarily because of its high safety standards and excellent quality of life. As a member of the European Union since 2004, and with the euro as its currency, Cyprus enjoys political, social and economic

stability. Low crime rates and excellent relations with partner EU Member States, but equally with neighbouring countries and other nations around the world, have all contributed to creating a safe, peaceful and trustworthy business environment.

The numerous destination management companies (DMCs) operating on the island, as well as professional conference organisers (PCOs), flanked by highly qualified, experienced, efficient and multilingual staff,

relevant code of ethics set by the Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Tourism.

As one of the world’s most ancient civilisations, the island combines business and culture with many other attractions and activities, such as gastronomy, entertainment, relaxing in a “cosy” atmosphere, beautiful scenery, vibrant lifestyles and amazing hospitality, with an authentic touch that ensures an unforgettable experience.

The Cyprus Convention Bureau (CCB) is

The numerous destination management companies (DMCs) operating on the island, as well as professional conference organisers (PCOs), flanked by highly qualified, experienced, efficient and multilingual staff, offer professional services and guidance for all business needs offer professional services and guidance for all business needs. The professionalism and expertise of these companies are guaranteed through strict criteria pertaining to the quality of the services provided and the

always ready to assist with the organising of meetings, incentive trips, conferences, conventions and exhibitions, offering an attractive programme of grants, benefits and support.

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SPORT

From The Right Preparation To The Perfect Performance Training hard doesn’t mean that professional sports people or amateur athletes have to train in harsh conditions. There is no better motivation to inspire athletes for an upcoming season or event than to practise and prepare for the sport that one loves on an island where a pleasant climate is combined with beautiful Mediterranean surroundings, not to mention first-rate amenities

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large number of athletes and teams from all over the world, such as European football squads, including from Serbia, Olympic hopefuls, seasoned medallists and endurance athletes all give themselves a competitive advantage by choosing Cyprus for their preparation, thanks to a winning formula of services.

The most attractive reasons to choose the island are its guaranteed daily sunshine, mild winter temperatures and minimal rainfall. This is further enhanced and complemented by a host of other benefits. Also combining to ensure that training is efficient and rewarding are state-of-the-art training facilities, sports medicine, accommodation for all budgets, professional support, easy access from most European countries, a reliable communications and telecommunications network, low crime rates and

an enviable standard of living. And one can simultaneously enjoy the rewards of everything offered by the island.

DIVING Blessed with all the elements that comprise a diver’s paradise, Cyprus attracts visitors from all over the world thanks to its favourable weather conditions, top-ranking wrecks, diverse marine life and, naturally, because the island boasts more than 70 diving sites. A range of wrecks, spectacular underwater caves and tunnels, and interesting paths await exploration – always with the promise of discovering something unique, from the remains of ancient amphora and stone anchors, to the exotic residents of this underwater world. And whilst the coastal reefs of the island range from natural to artificial, both share the same characteristics, acting as areas of

reproduction, growth, feeding and a refuge for a multitude of marine organisms.

Teeming with a wide variety of colourful fish, sponges, coral, sea anemones, octopi, musselsandseaurchin,thewatersoftheisland are abundant with life, while shy sea turtles can also be spotted regularly, along with the rarest Mediterranean seals. As such, whether you’re an experienced diver or are just trying the sport for the first time, Cyprus offers the ideal diving experience. And if you need a helping hand to locate an accredited dive school, the Cyprus Dive Centre Association lists all its members (cyprusdiving.org.cy).

CYCLING With perfect weather conditions, varied and challenging terrain and beautiful scenery, it is no wonder that Cyprus is a firm favourite for leisurely and competitive cycling throughout the year. Enthusiasts love the island’s rugged character, which can shift from rocky to clay, and steep to flat, all within a range of 10km. Whilst you enjoy the feeling of the balmy Mediterranean breeze through your hair, unlike other island destinations, Cyprus’s wonderful climate isn’t hampered by strong headwinds, ensuring it’s the ideal setting to explore by bike!The most popular months for cycling are in the spring, which is also the season that welcomes high-calibre cycling events. The events’ courses are designed in such a way as to suit the abilities of top elite riders, whilst also providing leisure cyclists with a fun and testing experience.The island is considered a top bicycle training destination,

as well as a cyclist’s dream environment, just for the sheer love of the sport. A number of bicycle centres offer a variety of professional services, such as bike rentals, tailored cycling tours and support.

Moreover, mountain biking competitions have been organised in Cyprus since the mid90s. Both local and international races are held

Cyprus is the new jewel of Europe for golfers seeking active breaks in the warmth of the eastern Mediterranean on the island, with the most famous being the “Afxentia Stage Race”, which became part of the Cyprus Sunshine Cup and later the Cyprus Sunshine Epic, in which the world’s top riders compete each year. Mountain biking is a yearround sport in Cyprus for both professional riders and those who ride as a hobby. The greatest benefit of mountain biking in Cyprus lies in the constant change of scenery that ensures it’s never boring. One can say that Cyprus is like a tiny continent for cycling; as

the Troodos mountain range is a veritable geological Mecca, and mountain bike is the perfect tool to discover why.

The Cyprus Cycling Federation (www. cypruscycling.com), as a member of the International Cycling Union (UCI), is the organiser of major events and other competitions throughout the year, whilst each town has its own dedicated cycling groups that always welcome visitors on their weekly rides. Cycling enthusiasts can just grab a map and get pedalling.

GOLF The allure of teeing off amidst stunning natural surroundings, along with the opportunity of enjoying golf all-year-round in a favourable Mediterranean climate, are just two of the factors that have seen Cyprus emerge as a leading golfing destination.

A booming tourist destination with year-round sunshine and year-round flight accessibility, Cyprus is the new jewel of Europe for golfers seeking active breaks in the warmth of the eastern Mediterranean.

Located in some of the most picturesque areas of the island, the select handful of courses have been praised for the way they are integrated into breathtaking natural landscapes of dramatic ravines, cliffs and sea vistas – backdrops that have been carefully utilised to enhance the game on each course.

The island’s various golf courses also host annual tournaments at both the national and international levels, as well as academies, clubhouses and other facilities.

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RURAL CYPRUS

Rural village, Alona

Journey Through Nature, History, and Culture With the beauty of nature’s best palette on display, the scenery of Cyprus unfolds across glittering coasts, rolling mountains, fragrant forests and rugged headlands

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rom the warm shores of the mainland to the unspoilt and cool oasis of the Troodos mountain range, nature lovers, artists, photographers and explorers will all delight in encountering shy creatures and discovering rare plants that peek out from behind waterfalls, coves, woodlands, winding trails and secluded sandy beaches in the Akamas Nature Park.

As the island is on the migratory path of birds travelling between Europe, Asia and Africa, Cyprus is a birdwatchers’ paradise, with flocks of flamingos frequenting the salt lakes and many other significant species passing through or nesting here. And deep in the forests, the national animal – the Mouflon – roams freely, and catching a glimpse of this timid, wild sheep is a real treat for locals and visitors alike.

With a favourable climate year-round, the great outdoors of this island are easily accessible and offer myriad opportunities

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to take a journey through nature, history and culture, thanks to the numerous signposted paths and nature trails. The rural trails highlight the beautiful landscapes and strong Mediterranean character of the island and when hiking them you will encounter a treasure trove of varied fauna and flora, as well as the remnants of the island’s mining heritage and other interesting monuments.

Cyprus has all the elements of a great location for hiking, but also mountain-biking, climbing and orienteering, thanks to its stunning rugged backdrops, complex rock formations and the quality, variety and diversity of its climbing routes (both traditional and sport). Wineries, farms open

painted churches, stunning scenery, forested mountain trails and a way of life that has hardly changed over the centuries.

The island of Cyprus may be relatively small, yet it has literally hundreds of villages, many of which are no more than a handful of houses clustered around a church, and a coffee-shop that also serves as the village grocery shop, post office and general meeting place. In the more remote parts of the island, these villages have remained virtually unchanged, although motorised transport has made them more accessible. Nonetheless, their older inhabitants still cling to the traditional lifestyle that basically revolves around the planting and harvesting seasons.

Just waiting to be discovered here are timeless villages, tiny and remote UNESCO-protected painted churches, stunning scenery, forested mountain trails and a way of life that has hardly changed over the centuries to visitors, local producers and markets, the workshops of craftsmen and artists are found along the Thematic Routes that run through the countryside, leading to a world of authentic experiences. This is a world apart from the tourist hotspots. Just waiting to be discovered here are timeless villages, tiny and remote UNESCO-protected

The Cyprus hinterland is a great place for botanists, artists, bird watchers, hikers, ramblers, anglers, cyclists, photographers and geologists. The greatest wealth of any country is its people, and whatever your interest or wherever you travel to Cyprus, you can always be sure that you will receive the warmest of welcomes.

Cypriot Cuisine

WINE ROUTES

The rich history of Cypriot wine has been alive and developing for something like 6,000 years.

Take any of the island's routes to experience Cypriot hospitality and be introduced to this island's world of wine. Visit any of the modern wineries operating on the island and sample their wines.

Agro tourism and other small units, taverns and restaurants with high modern standards are here to provide you with accommodation and the unique dishes of Cypriot cuisine. Go back in time by visiting restored traditional wine presses and museums that demonstrate the bygone life, culture and traditions of the rural population.

See the grape harvest, join traditional feasts and enjoy superb local wines in abundance.

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he ritual of sharing tasty, healthy, fresh local cuisine is an important part of the island’s culture, and is inextricably linked with every social event, from family gatherings and special occasions, to religious festivals – each marked with its own distinct delicacies and recipes. From hearty meat dishes and speciality cheeses, to unique desserts made of carob and grape, Cypriot cuisine is an exotic blend of Greek and Middle Eastern cultures, sprinkled with the remnants of ancient civilisations like indigenous Roman root vegetables or old Phoenician delicacies.

It is no secret that the ‘Mediterranean diet’ is considered to be amongst the world’s healthiest, thanks to its abundance of hearthealthy olive oil, pulses, lean meat, local herbs and freshly grown fruits and vegetables.

Add to this the favourable climate – that gives the fresh produce its intense flavour – and a celebration around every corner, complete with special treats, and visitors to the island will find a gastronomic adventure awaiting them.

From ancient wine and potent spirits, to strong coffee and refreshing concoctions, there is a traditional Cypriot beverage for every occasion. After all, the island’s richly flavoured cuisine would not be complete without one, and they are all accompanied by an interesting back-story or historical significance that embeds them firmly in the island’s culture. The island’s longstanding winemaking tradition dates back over 6,000 years and can lay claim to the world’s oldest wine still in production: the sweet dessert wine of Commandaria, whilst the over-

abundance of grapes are also put to good use to make the potent ‘firewater’ spirit of Zivania. In traditional coffee shops across the island, Cypriot coffee is brewed with skill and served in tiny demitasse cups, due to its strength; whilst today’s cold Frappe (iced coffee) is enjoyed at the island’s more modern hangouts.

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Blending History & Modernity

Apollo temple

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Business Partner - Cyprus 2021