One of the reasons an increasing amount of expats chooses Cyprus for their new home is the relaxed pace of living compared to other EU countries. A good work-life balance is essential, and leisure time is considered very important. Add that to the fact that the climate in Cyprus makes it possible to bask in the sun and swim at sea for most of the year, and you can rest assured that your leisure time will be well spent.
Experience nature
Despite being a small island, the natural beauty of Cyprus is immense and has something for everyone. Some of the most popular activities in nature include skiing, hiking, swimming, diving and, lately, golf.
For those who love the mountains, Troodos mountains is an excellent option for skiing, hiking through the forests and taking in the magnificent waterfalls and surrounding vistas. In fact, due to their unique geology, at the Troodos mountains, you can find oceanic crust ' one of the very few places in the world where such a phenomenon exists. This is because the whole island of Cyprus was once an underwater volcano; you can still see pillow lava on the Troodos mountains. The area around the mountains is breathtaking as well, with many nature trails, picturesque villages and Byzantine churches, ten of which hold UNESCO World Heritage Status.
Of course, Cyprus is also famous for its beaches, and for a good reason. Whether you prefer to be alone with the waves or party on packed beach clubs, you can find a beach that fits your lifestyle. For partying on the beach, the best location is Agia Napa, with Nissi beach being the most popular because of its golden sands, crystal clear waters and vibrant beach bars. Fig Tree Bay in Protaras is also an excellent choice for combining swimming with a booming nightlife. If instead, you're aching for the privacy of lush forests and secluded coves, Argaka beach and Baths of Aphrodite in Paphos should be on your radar.
Experience culture
Cyprus has a very long history, and it's all available for you to explore. You can visit museums, archaeological spaces and archaeological parks, mosques and monasteries and unique sites of Venetian architecture.
The island has been populated since the Neolithic period ' in fact, you can visit the Choirokoitia Neolithic Settlement in the Larnaca District, to get a glimpse of life as it was 12,000 years ago! There are also ancient cities, archaeological parks, temples and tombs; medieval castles and bridges; Venetian walls (the most famous being the Famagusta gate); monasteries and mosques. Also, both Nicosia and Limassol have maintained their old towns, offering a chance to stroll around in breathtaking architecture and visit traditional markets and workshops.
Cyprus also has several museums. In Nicosia, visit the Cyprus Archaeological Museum, the Byzantine Museum and the State Gallery of Contemporary Art. In Limassol, you will find various options such as the Medieval Museum, the Folk Art Museum, the Wine Museum and the Cyprus Theatre Museum. Paphos, because the goddess Aphrodite was believed to have been born there, maintains an archaeological park which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Experience gastronomy
Cyprus has a great culinary tradition and the local love going out for coffee and eating out, as will you. On any given day on the island, you will have the opportunity to savour local flavours such as haloumi, anari cheese and palouzes (grape jelly). The country also has a winemaking tradition of 6,000 years, so you can expect to sample some great wines from local wineries. If you want to explore the wine culture better, there are also many winery tours you can take, to combine taking in the sites of Cyprus' picturesque villages with wine tasting.
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