Crete Blog

If you’re considering a holiday on one of the Greek islands for this year or next, Paxos might be worth considering for a family holiday, or for a romantic getaway for couples.

According to Greek legendy, the island was created by Poseidon when he struck Corfu with his trident in effort to gain peace and quiet. The pebble beaches of Paxos are surrounded by sheer, precipitous cliffs that create scenery that is both breathtaking and expressive.

The sea around Paxos has vivid colours; it is pleasantly clean, clear, and cool. Dramatic fauna and flora are abundant, especially in spring. Ancient olive trees line the hillsides allowing the mind and senses escape to the treasure of comfort and beauty that awaits holidaymakers.

Seeing The Island

Paxos is charming and quaint and can be seen easily in a couple of days by motorbike or car. The three main towns on the island are Logos, Laka, and Gaios. All of which exhibit the classiul ac Hellenic Ionian style with bright and colourful homes lining the promenades.

The rural area environment has a landscape that features low stone homes surrounded by bountifnd lush gardens. There is always something beautiful to see and many photo opportunities while you’re sightseeing or walking. For those who like Crete holidays it’s familiar but at the same time unique enough to enjoy.

The three main resorts all have natural harbours - Gaios being the biggest and busiest.

Travelling further inland there are old churches and buildings and many hiking or biking trails if you seek to further explore the island’s rich history.

Hotels In Paxos And Things To Do

Travel around the entire island on a day or half day cruise. Picturesque wind-carved limestone cliffs, sculptural rock formations, and caverns line the way. Crystal clear, calm waters surrounding the island only add to the exquisite beauty. The weather and climate on Paxos is similar to the weather in Crete.

A bit of history from World War II is just off the island. Inside the cave called Papanikolis, a Greek submarine found refuge and hid during the war.

There is plenty of opportunity to swim, snorkel and relax. This island is wonderful for holidaymakers seeking relaxation and to get away from the rest of the world. The locals are all very friendly and happily greet visitors. A spectacular sunset can be seen by traveling to Erimitis, a bar which sits above the cliffs of the west coast.

Paxos is a worthwhile day trip if you don’t have a lot of time, but want to escape for a bit. There are many hiking and biking paths that go around the island via trails, coves, and beaches. There’s a few travel sites that have a map, often the same ones that have a Crete map.

You can easily take in the unhurried, traditional, and tranquil Greek lifestyle. Many people visit this wonderful island because of the miles of pathways that lead to unspoiled, secluded beaches and coves.

Hotels in Paxos fill quickly during peak travel season. Villa holidays are popular. Many villas have private pools and various villa companies include Paxos in their brochures, James Villas for example.

The island also has two hotels that often receive rave reviews from happy guests. The island of Paxos might be small compared to some islands like Kefalonia, but it offers an intimate charm and beauty for those who crave quiet, peaceful relaxation. Retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday modern living and escape from it all.

More information about the Greek islands are available on social media like reddit

Reuters recently ran an article about how climate change could affect Cyprus. Here’s an extract:

“Climate change is going to affect this region in a relatively strong way, and differently than northern Europe,” said Jos Lelieveld, a professor in atmospheric sciences at the Energy, Environment and Water Research Center at the non-profit Cyprus Institute.

Cyprus has a tourism intake of more than two million each year, attracted by its almost year-round sunshine and stunning beaches. The sector represents about 11 percent of its economy. But its key selling point, the sun, could be a malady if forecasts on changing weather patterns prove to be correct.

“For the tourist sector the summer seasons may become less attractive,” said Lelieveld, who is also a director at the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry in Germany.

To read the full article click here

For a Cyprus weather forecast and holidays in Cyprus visit yourcyprus.info

Unlike some islands in the Mediterranean Cyprus doesn’t rely almost exclusively on tourism to fuel its economy. Luckily with the downturn in the world economy only about 11 percent of the country’s revenue comes from tourism.

 

Year-to-Year Comparison

 

January and February saw a combined 11.1 percent drop in the number of people taking holidays in Cyprus, and it hasn’t been getting better since then. The first half of 2009 saw a fall in British visitors of about 20 to 30 percent who ecided that the lure of the weather in Cyprus wasn’t enough.

 

Monetary Issues

 

Some say monetary exchange rates are the principle cause of the reduction of visitors from Britain. The current exchange rate from euro to sterling is far lower than it was in 2008.

 

Many tourists look for low rates and great deals on travel packages. More than 50 percent of European holidaymakers choose to spend their vacation time in more traditional spots. Either way, money-aware travelers are looking for the best value for their money.

 

Only about 25 percent of European vacationers prefer to visit less-known places. They prefer vacation destinations that are more quiet and remote. Some are in search of quiet, outdoor activities while others simply like to visit alternative locations from year to year.

 

A lot of people chose to stay home this summer. Three percent of those polled said they could not vacation this year without going in debt. The world-wide economic issues have caused many well-known holiday destinations to become less crowded during the 2009 season. Most residents of Greece for example chose to vacation within the country this year instead of travelling abroad.

 

Most Popular Holiday Destinations

 

Some of the most popular destinations are the Balearic Islands, Rome, London and Paris. The United States, Turkey and Croatia are also popular destinations for Europeans this year.

 

The Balearic Islands are comprised of a group of 5 islands in the Mediterranean Sea, the main ones being Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The primary languages spoken are Spanish and Catalan but many natives have learned English to accommodate English-speaking visitors. Ibiza is well known as both a party and family destination. Crystal blue waters and sandy beaches await visitors to the islands.

 

Though fewer people are visiting Cyprus this year, next year may prove to be a different story. The economy is starting a slow climb upward and people are learning to save for things they enjoy. Tourism in 2010 will likely see tourists and international travellers going back to their favourite destinations, including Cyprus of course.

 

For more travel articles and up to date news visit twitter

Cyprus is a popular holiday location for tourists in Europe and beyond - with annual visitors surpassing 2.4 million per year, it enjoys the company of holidaymakers who have visited several times before, and make the trip again and again.

Cyprus is the third largest of the Mediterranean group. The island is favoured not only for its fabulous climatic conditions, but also her rich history.

Historically, Cyprus has one of the most intriguing pasts of most Mediterranean countries. This historic past is in many ways still very evident in the architect and sites. The historic intermingling of Egyptians and Byzantine cultures provides a unique mix hard to find anywhere else. Signs and relics of the various conquerors who set foot in Cyprus at one time or another still remain today. 

Recently released figures for 2009 holidays in Cyprus have started alarm bells ringing in the island’s tourist industry as the recession has stopped many people taking an overseas holiday.

And it’s disappointing news for the hotels and Cyprus tourist related businesses that have developed over the years to make holidays in Cyprus so popular, and with many businesses assuming continued popularity it could mean some facing closure, or laying some staff off for the 2009 season.

Official figures show that Cyprus started the year off as it is set to continue in 2009 - poorly. A 7 per cent drop in tourist arrivals compared to the previous January.

The biggest drop in holidaymakers was from the traditionally good source of the UK - down over 8 per cent, reflecting the anxiety in the UK over their economy and the reluctance of many consumers to buy big ticket items like cars and holidays just after Christmas at a time of economic uncertainty.

But Cyprus will remain one of the most popular holiday destinations for British holidaymakers this year, unless the Euro strengthens even further against the pound over the summer months and stops people booking last minute Cyprus holidays, and go outside the Eurozone or maybe even take a holiday at home.

But what will new visitors to Cyprus find when they arrive, apart of course from the superb Cyprus weather?

Cyprus has long been known as an excellent destination for holidaymakers. Her golf courses are renowned in Europe as first class, and its beaches are too for those who prefer their holidays in Cyprus to be more beach based than sport.

Cyprus is currently home to three golf courses, with plans to create some more. The Aphrodite Hills Golf Club is a short drive from the Paphos-Limassol motorway and overlooks the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite. The Secret Valley Golf Club is also located near the birthplace of Aphrodite, Petra tou Romiou. The valley’s beautifully landscaped gardens help bring out the beauty of the natural rock formations. The Tsada Golf Club is on the grounds of a magnificent 12th century monastery near Tsada village.

For younger tourists taking their first trip abroad Ayia Napa with its famous club scene is a magnet. 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 has many 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 available.

For those who want to see some of traditional Cyprus, 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 Cyprus weather.

But whatever the reason for visiting Cyprus, with less people visiting, the welcome you receive this year might be even warmer than their usual warm hospitality.

Tourist officials in Cyprus are working harder than ever to discover more ways to attract visitors. The latest push is to increase their number of golf courses from the four that are currently up and running to fourteen complete courses.

The idea behind an increase in the number of choices both keen and novice golfers can choose from when visiting Cyprus is to build the attraction and income collected from holiday golfers. The government believes that more golf courses will effectively build the tourist industry through their offering of more courses for holiday golfers to enjoy and alternate between.

Government Efforts

The Cyprus government is encouraging development, but wants there to be a good, healthy balance between development and care for the environment. By creating more varied types of golf courses throughout the area, holiday golfers will bring tourist income to Cyprus, but will also respect and support the courses’ efforts to preserve and protect the local environment.

Both businessmen and environmental agencies are voicing concerns over future development and whether it will do more harm or good to continue with the creation of these added holiday golfing attractions. The strong arguments for environmental conservation and economic development each bring their own points to the table in favour of the plans for the new golf courses.

Government officials are determined to find a neutral ground that offers a healthy balance between both sides of the debate in order to satisfy all those concerned with the new propositions.

More Interest in Cyprus Holidays

It has only been in recent years that Cyprus has attracted interest from holiday golfers. The focus for groups determined to increase income from tourism has become building several more golf courses in order to raise more interest in Cyprus as a mecca for this popular pastime.

Cyprus in and of itself offers a fantastic combination of spectacular beaches and archaeological sites that attract a large number of tourists unrelated to the golfer. The goal is to combine its current attractions with more golfing opportunities for families who wish to travel to destinations that offer something for each member to enjoy.

Golfers’ Paradise

The well known holiday golfing destination of the Algarve (Portugal) boasts the type of atmosphere Cyprus would like to offer its own tourists. The Algarve has a golfing season that lasts about 10 months out of the year. Even in the winter months, golfers are still out there enjoying their beloved sport and leisurely pastime.

Other outdoor activities include tennis, swimming and various other water sports. This is the atmosphere that Cyprus strives to provide her own tourists. Course layouts appease the avid golfer, while other activities aim to please all other members of a family on their holidays.

A Reachable Goal

Cyprus officials, businesses and environmentalists are coming together with a common goal. They have fully realised the potential that offering more holiday golfing opportunities to tourists offers. It will not only make them a more popular travel destination, but will also bring added support for their economy and environment. All of this in the form of an activity that has been and still is a beloved national pastime for millions around the world.

In the grand scheme of things, it’s unlikely that you will find Limassol listed with cities like London, Madrid, New York or Hong Kong. Cyprus’ port city may not be known worldwide for clubs or commerce or international flair. Nonetheless, it is a city worth visiting. Its clear blue Mediterranean waters and cultural wealth surprise thousands of tourists every year.

Limassol is the second largest populated city in Cyprus. It is the largest in geographical size. Its population of 176,000 is, by many city standards, barely a blip on the radar. But its relatively small population is perhaps its most alluring attribute. It is large enough to be considered an urban destination, but small and close knit enough to provide a warm welcome to visitors.

Limassol has a great deal to offer the holidaymaker. It is most widely known as a port city. It is, in fact, the biggest port in the Mediterranean trade route. A world class marina is currently in progress, in keeping with Limassol’s close ties to the sea, travel and trade. It is hoped that the new marina will attract boating enthusiasts from around Europe. It will be a centre not just for sailing and yachting, but for playing, eating and holidays too.

Tourists who don’t necessarily appreciate the city’s marine history will certainly find other things to do. Limassol is also known for its colourful festivals. The annual Limassol Festival is a ten day affair dating back to ancient paganism. The modern version has lost some of its pagan religious connotations and has become more of a celebration of culture. The event is characterized by colourful costumes, masks and parades. It might be compared to the Mardi Gras festival of New Orleans.

Limassol’s other famous festival is the annual Wine Festival. Some of its origins have faded with time, becoming largely a mix of history and lore. Some Cyprus historians regard it as a modern version of lively celebrations of worship for the ancient god of wine, Dionysus. The Wine Festival also pays a nod to Aphrodite, the well known and regarded goddess of love. The Wine Festival of the 21st century embraces appreciation for fine Mediterranean wine. It’s also a chance to enjoy merrymaking just for the fun of it.

Visitors to Limassol who prefer sightseeing to revelry can enjoy any number of historical and cultural sites. The city’s coastal front is a sight to behold, with tree-lined walkways for a stroll along the ocean - wonderful when the weather in Cyprus is at its best. It’s dotted with shops and a mix of modern and ancient architectured buildings.

The medieval castle of Limassol dates back to 1000 A.D. It was built during the Byzantine era. The castle now houses a museum full of artifacts. Knowledgeable docents give tourists a full picture of the castle’s history and its contribution to ancient society.

Limassol is also home to the Cyprus University of Technology. CUT is a relative newcomer to the city. It was established in 2004, but accepted its first group of students just in the 2007-2008 school year. Its primary focus is trades and technology. Its founders envisioned an institution that would complement the University of Cyprus, located in the capital city of Nicosia.

The new university was a much anticipated addition to Limassol. Students have been warmly welcomed by locals. It draws pupils from all over the Mediterranean and even further afield international locations.

Limassol boasts accommodation from four and five star Cyprus hotels to economy bungalows. Tourists don’t necessarily have to break the bank account to enjoy all that Cyprus’ prominent port city has to offer, and even a day trip will ensure holidaymakers get to know a bit of Limassol.

One of the good things about Cyprus is that no matter what time of year you visit, the weather is almost certainly going to be good.

Cyprus is one of the few islands in the world that doesn’t have to differentiate between winter and summer activities - when you plan your cruise to Cyprus, you should include some key factors to take full advantage of the trip. Start by creating a list of things you would like to do. A great place to find adventurous things to do is the brochure from the cruise line. Pay very close attention to the places you will pass by and ports of call your cruise ship will dock in.

The Seasons of Cyprus

Cyprus does have seasons, though cooler seasons like autumn and winter are very short-lived. Winter lasts from December to February and plays host to several varieties of bird life. Winter-visiting birds, such as flamingos, herons, glossy ibis and egrets, fly to Cyprus each year to feed at the salt lakes near Larnaka Airport. They usually arrive in December just after the first rains. Bird watchers often flock to Akrotiri during December to view the vast array of birds and capture some great photographs.

The visiting feathered friends aren’t the only “snowbirds” attracted to Cyprus during the winter months. Senior citizens and those looking for a reprieve from long, cold winters also flock to Cyprus to enjoy a very mild winter. December is considered the coldest month of winter when you look at the twelve months of Cyprus weather with temperatures dropping as low as 37-40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Spring, summer and autumn are considered prime tourism seasons on Cyprus. The beaches and other popular areas become more crowded, and prices increase. Swimming, diving and other water sports become more popular as well. In addition to honeymooners, seniors and families, the family dog is also welcome on certain beaches on Cyprus. Several of the island’s hotels offer the ability for the family dog to enjoy vacation time with the family. During the summer of 2008, one entire section of beach went to the dogs, quite literally!

Benefits of Visiting Cyprus in the Winter

Most of the hotels on Cyprus lower their rates during the three winter months in effort to lure more guests. December, January and February often bring lower hotel rates, low-cost airfare and cruise ship discounts. Museums and ancient sites are not as crowded, allowing visitors the opportunity to linger and focus on details they may miss during the more crowded months. Some of the most impressive sites on Cyprus date back 10,000 years and are worth the extra time to explore and enjoy.

Daytime temperatures during the winter are still warm enough to stroll along the beaches in shorts. As a stark contrast to the mild outward temperatures, the Troodos mountain range in the center of the island is excellent for ski holidays along with snowboarding or hiking. Enjoy your day skiing; then relax with a quiet stroll on the beach or end your day on the golf course. Few places on earth allow this type of diversity for one full day of fun. On Cyprus, golf is considered a year round sport. Golf courses are very well-maintained and never close during the mild winter months.

Year Round Sports

Because of its location, Cyprus does not limit the ability to play sports due to seasons. While summer temperatures have been as high as 96 degrees Fahrenheit, the average temperature during the summer months is between 71 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit or 22-29 degrees Celsius. Winter on Cyprus may drop as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit, but the average temperature is 50 degrees Fahrenheit or around ten Centigrade.