Spotlight On: Cyprus

Cyprus is the eastern most island in the Mediterranean Sea and the third largest in the Mediterranean. Separated into a Greek south and Turkish north, the capital and largest city is Nicosia, the only remaining divided capital in the world.

Cyprus’s history dates back to the Neolithic period and it is famous for being the mythological birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, beauty and fertility.

Cyprus promotes its location as being the bridge or doorway between West and East due to its location, educated English speaking population, moderate cost of living, good airline and port services and great telecommunications.

Travel
Larnaca International Airport is the island’s main airport, located in the southeast of the island, 5 km south of the lively port town of Larnaca which is a 15 minute shuttle bus or taxi ride away. The island’s capital Nicosia is a 30 min drive from Larnaca International Airport.

The second largest airport, Paphos International Airport, on the western side of the island, is 15km east of Paphos, a 30 minute bus ride away.

Venues

For large meetings and events from 15 to 400 guests we recommend the 5* Elysium located on the coast, 10 mins away from the picturesque Paphos harbour and 25 mins from the city centre. With four very different meeting and conference venues, a private beach, unparalleled Mediterranean views and an array of amenities, it is also an ideal destination for incentives.

For smaller meetings of up to 120, and for a great place to stay, consider the Europa Plaza, located in the heart of the Business District of Nicosia. A small boutique hotel with forty rooms, six executive rooms and four executive suites, the conference room can seat from 18-120 people. The hotel is perfectly located in a quiet area, yet right in the centre of the Business District with its Government offices, Ministries, Embassies and Banking institutions. It’s also only a five minute walk to Nicosia Archaeological Museum, House of Parliament and many more sites of interest.

For team building and meetings of 30 to 50 we suggest the five star beach front Grecian Bay Hotel in Ayia Napa, only 30 minutes from Larnaca International Airport.

Social Programmes and activities
Many of Cyrus’s attractions revolve around its ancient history and natural beauty.

  • The Troodos Mountains
    Rising to almost 2,000 metres above sea level, a trip to the cool mountain air of the Troodos Mountains is particularly welcome in the height of summer. Panoramic views of the whole island can be seen whilst travelling through small villages and visiting historic churches and monasteries such as the spectacular Kykkos Monastery.
  • Paphos
    Paphos is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage ancient monuments including the Temple of Apollon Hylates, the magnificent Tombs of the Kings, the House of Dionysos with its magnificent mosaics and the landmark site of the Rock of Aphrodite.
  • 4×4 Jeep Safaris
    For nature-lovers Jeep safaris can be arranged which take in the stunning Avakas Gorge and Lara Beach, home of the Turtle Conservation Project.

Dining
Excellent restaurants are located across Cyprus in both city centres and inland villages with international food such as Middle Eastern, Italian and Indian on offer as well as the traditional Greek mezé, a perfect and very sociable way for groups to try a variety of local dishes.
For more upmarket gourmet food we recommend Souxou Mouxou Mantalakia in Nicosia which has an excellent reputation and a warm welcome.

See Bien Venue’s website to see how we could help you to plan your next event.