Cyprus
Imagine a breathtakingly beautiful yet rugged coastline, crystal clear water gently lapping at the shore, secret coves and 320 days of brilliant sunshine. A place where luxury holiday resorts jostle for space amongst ancient ruins dating back thousands of years and where there is some kind of celebration almost every week - welcome to Cyprus!
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean with a mainly Greek Cypriot population. Since 1974 the capital Nicosia has been divided and one third of the island has been under Turkish rule. This has resulted in an interesting mix of cultures in the north but is hardly noticeable in the south.
The main tourist resorts are found in the south, such as Paphos in the south-west. Pathos has two distinct parts; the residential area of Ktima and the busy tourist resort of Katos Paphos with its picturesque harbour and over seven miles of sandy beaches including Coral Bay, reputed to be the best on the coast. Limassol in the west is the island's second largest city, swelled by a sudden influx of Greek Cypriots in 1974. Sheltered by the Troödos Mountains, Limassol is also the heart of the winegrowing industry and a popular tourist destination.
Larnaka, the honorary capital, is home to the island's main international airport and is the first port of call for all visitors to southern Cyprus, whether staying in one of Larnaka's five-star resort hotels, in a traditional property or in a rental in a stunning new development. Its history, european-style promenade and miles of sandy beaches have made it a firm favourite.
The lively town of Ayia Napa located in the eastern region of Famagusta was once a small fishing village, initially claimed as a tourist destination by travelers in the 1960s. Today, it is an internationally renowned holiday hot-spot, famed for its nightlife as much as for its beaches, yet it has still retained much of its original character.
The beautiful and diverse landscape of Cyprus is blessed with breathtaking mountains, olive groves, vineyards and of course, miles of fine, sandy beaches boasting all types of amenities including luxury hotel resorts, water sports, beachside restaurants, bars and the unfailing friendly Cypriot hospitality.
Strategically located at the crossroads to Europe, Asia and Africa, this Mediterranean jewel continues to attract overseas business. As part of the EU, Cyprus plans to join the Euro monetary system at the end of 2007, bringing further development, prosperity and growth to the region. There has never been a better time to invest in property here.
The airports at Paphos and Larnaka have both recently been extended, in response to the increase of low-cost flights from most major cities. Further investment has been earmarked to build new marinas at Coral Bay and Larnaka respectively; new hotels, shops, bars and two 18-hole golf courses are also planned, making this destination an outstanding investment opportunity and ideal for those looking to find their dream home in the sun.