Cyprus

The third largest island in the Mediterranean and is located in the north eastern area of the Mediterranean Sea. Cyprus is an island steeped in history and has a rich cultural heritage. Visitors and tourists that travel to Cyprus have an overwhelming choice of ancient monuments and archaeological sites to visit. This is particularly so in Paphos.

Paphos - Paphos seems to have its own mini weather system, slightly cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, the countryside around it is some of the most beautiful on the island. Its history goes back to the 4th century B.C. and you will find loads of interesting archaeological sites in the vicinity.

The growing harbour town of Paphos nestling on the Western coast of the island, is so rich in historical interest that the whole town is included on UNESCOS World Heritage List. Wherever you tread in Paphos you come across evidence of its glorious history that dates back thousands of years. In Roman times it was the capital of Cyprus.

Ayia Napa - Not too long ago Ayia Napa was a small sleepy fishing village. The boom of tourism has transfigured it in a relatively short space of time into a throbbing night-spot. It seems to be particularly appealing to young people, who are catered for quite handsomely. The beaches around Ayia Napa and Protaras are famous for the beautiful blue of their water and although they are now overcrowded in some places it is still a lovely spot, especially if you like an active holiday.

Protaras - Protaras is the up market version of Ayia Napa. Nice beaches and coves, entertainment for the children, nice hotels, lots of villas and plenty of nightlife but not till 5am.

Laranca - Facing the Lebanon and set in a wide bay is Larnaca, the shopping is excellent and the sea front is wide and paved with many outdoor restaurants which specialise in Cyprus cuisine. Culture is rampant in Larnaca, and the Municipal Cultural Centre do a wonderful job and bring a lot of interesting events to Larnaca's various venues.

Language: Greek (spoken by about 80% of the population) and Turkish (spoken by about 20%)
Currency: Euro
Time: GMT + 2
Voltage: 240 volts ac, 50 Hz. Sockets are usually 13 amps, square 3-pin, as in the UK.
In an emergency call: 199
Opening hours: Shopping hours change depending on the season
Banks: Banks are open Monday to Friday 8.30am-12.30pm
Glass of beer: €0.87
Bottle of wine: €3.50
Three course meal with wine: €10.50 - €17.50
Short taxi ride: €4.75 approx
Dialling code: 00 357
Visa: Not necessary for UK citizens, for a stay of up to three months.
Cyprus Airport: 2680 1800
Cypriot Embassy: 020 8489 2934

More of the latest overseas property investment news from Thomson OPI.

See all news here

View previous investment news in our news archive.