Latest news with #Paphos
Associated Press
3 days ago
- Politics
- Associated Press
Cyprus shows off its new Airbus military helicopters touted as more advanced than what Germany has
NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) — Cyprus on Friday unveiled four of its newly-delivered Airbus H145 helicopters that officials say are among the most advanced rotorcraft in the word with a proven track record that gives the Cypriot National Guard an operational edge. The helicopter is currently used by Germany, the U.S. Hungary, Belgium, Ireland and other militaries with over 500 variants currently in operation, logging over 8 million flight hours, according to Cyprus Defense Minister Vassilis Palmas. 'The new helicopter is a multi-role, digital instrument that is geared toward the demands of the 21st century,' Palmas told a ceremony at Cyprus' main Paphos air base. Two more of the state-of-the-art aircraft will be delivered, while the contract with Airbus allows for the purchase of additional helicopters, said Airbus Senior Vice President for the H145 program Daniela Dudek. Dudek said the reliability of the 3.8 ton aircraft is affirmed by its 40 years of service but the integration of advanced avionics and weapons systems make it the 'most military-capable aircraft in its category.' 'What we achieved over years to quickly integrate existing technology on the market, defense technology, and it is unique what you have here. You're even more advanced than what we currently have in Germany,' Dudek said. The helicopter's advanced avionics, which Airbus codeveloped with Israeli companies in the last two years, also includes an integrated weapons system dubbed H-Force which enables the pilot to easily operate the helicopters weaponry in flight, eliminating the need for a separate weapons officer on board. Dudek said another unique aspect of the Cypriot helicopters is an integrated battle management system that enables the aircraft to operate seamlessly with forces on the ground as well as other aircraft, including those belonging to the forces of other nations. Additionally, the helicopter's electronic warfare and other systems afford it a strong self-protection capability. Ethnically-divided Cyprus is in the process of modernizing its defensive capabilities to bring it up to modern European and NATO standards after years of relying on mainly Soviet-era, Russian-made weaponry. The island nation continues to operate Russian-made T-80 main battle tanks, but has recently sold off 11 Russian-made Mi35 attack helicopters to Serbia. Cyprus was split in 1974, when Turkey invaded following a coup by Athens junta-backed supporters of uniting the island with Greece. Only Turkey recognizes a Turkish Cypriot declaration of independence and maintains more than 35,000 troops in the island's northern third. The Cypriot defense minister said the helicopter purchase is part of wider strategic planning for the continuous upgrading of the National Guard, enabling the island to take part in joint military drills with friendly nations.
The Independent
6 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
British tourist dies after being found unconscious in Cyprus hotel pool
A British tourist has died in Cyprus after being found unconscious in a hotel swimming pool by holidaymakers. The unidentified 60-year-old man was discovered by swimmers in the Paphos district and pulled from the water on Sunday (25 May), reported local outlet KNews. Despite efforts to provide medical aid, the British man was pronounced dead by doctors at Paphos General Hospital after emergency services responded to the scene. A post-mortem was carried out at the Nicosia mortuary on Monday to determine the exact cause of death as police investigate the incident. It is understood that the man was found floating in the pool of a hotel in Kato Paphos. The Independent has contacted the Foreign Office for comment. The incident comes just one month after two Brits, a 46-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy, drowned after being swept into rough waters off the Queensland coast in Australia. On 13 April, the pair were swimming at Round Hill Head in the seaside town of Seventeen Seventy when the incident occurred. Emergency services responded at around 2.15pm local time and deployed a rescue helicopter, but both individuals were declared dead at the scene.
Daily Mail
26-05-2025
- Daily Mail
BREAKING NEWS British tourist, 60, dies after being found unconscious in hotel pool in Cyprus
A British tourist has died after being found unconscious in a hotel swimming pool in Cyprus, local media reports. The 60-year-old tourist, who has not been named, was found by other swimmers at the hotel in the city of Paphos on Sunday. He was transferred to Paphos General Hospital, where doctors confirmed his death. Authorities are yet to confirm the cause of death. A post-mortem examination was carried out at the Nicosia mortuary today. MailOnline contacted the Foreign Office for comment.
Times
23-05-2025
- Times
10 of the best places to visit in Cyprus
Every generation of my family has been born in Cyprus and the magnetic pull of its blue-flag beaches, pine-scented villages and warm-hearted welcome of its people has, over the past decade in particular, compelled me to return more often. My attachment is not unique; the island now gets more than four million visitors every year. People come for its world heritage sites and ancient history, natural wonders and culture, family adventures and nightlife and — of course — for its affable climate, which makes it an all-year-round holiday hotspot. Here's a snapshot of the best bits of this wonderful island. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue One week Kato Paphos Two weeks Kato Paphos, Paphos district including Akamas Peninsula and traditional villages, Troodos Mountains Three weeksKato Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca, Lefkara and Nicosia A limited budgetAyia Napa and Protaras Kato Paphos, in the southwest of Cyprus, is perfect for a short stay, combining beautiful beaches and history. Begin your week by dedicating yourself to sun and sea worship — try sandy Coral Bay, Paphos Municipal (best for experienced swimmers, since the waters are quite deep) and the blue-flag Yeroskipou. Then take time to explore the historic area around the harbour, in particular the 13th-century Paphos Castle, and the Unesco-listed Kato Paphos Archaeological Park. Here, you'll find what remains of 12th-century villas, fortresses, palaces and tombs and some of the finest mosaic floors in the world. A 12-minute drive south of the castle will take you to Aphrodite Waterpark — a hugely enjoyable way of rewarding the children for all those hours they spent looking at ruins. The Alexander the Great Beach Hotel, with a blue-flag beach and fabulous infinity pool, delivers on all levels, whether you are travelling with older relatives or with young children. The ancient past is everywhere in Cyprus — if you want it packaged in one convenient break, this eight-day Brightwater Holidays tour visits many fascinating archaeological sites. • Best holiday villas in Paphos A second week — and a car — will give you the chance to discover authentic Cypriot villages such as Tala, Kathikas, Latchi and Droushia, and to reach Lara Bay, one of the few remaining nesting places for green and loggerhead turtles in the Mediterranean. Further north along the coast you'll find the Akamas Peninsula and the Baths of Aphrodite, where, according to Greek mythology, the goddess of love took her daily shower beneath the waterfall. The rugged trails of this still-wild area are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, bird watching and cross-country vehicle safaris. The Aphrodite Beach Hotel doesn't have multiple restaurants or a pool, but what it lacks in facilities, it more than makes up for in hospitality, cuisine and location — it's just 20m from Yiannakis beach. Exodus Adventure Travels has an eight-day, self-guided walking break to the Akamas Peninsula and Akamas National Park. The exceptional monastery of Agios Neophytos in Paphos deserves its own day out. It dates from the 12th century, when Neophytos, a monk, sought refuge in a natural cave in a cliff. It went on to become his hermitage cell and, in time, a chapel with exquisite frescoes and then a monastery for his pupils. I love it here and, despite the almost ever-present crowds, it remains a place of peace for me. There is a small museum that has some interesting artefacts, but its main attraction is its beautiful garden, a perfect spot for contemplation. Three miles from Agios Neophytos, the family-run Anna Hotel Apartments make a refreshing change from the glitzy-ritzy hotels that are springing up all over the island. Take a guided tour of Agios Neophytos followed by wine tasting at Sterna Winery in the lovely village of Kathikas. Troodos National Forest Park is a magical place to be at any time of the year. In winter its snow-capped peaks attract skiers while its summer air is fragrant with pine and wild flowers. The whole of the massif is a treasure filled with monasteries (including Kykkos and Machairas), Unesco-listed frescoed churches, family-run wineries that serve hunks of halloumi with every tasting, and cobbled-street villages. Among my favourites are Omodos, Kakopetria, Platres and Pedoulas, where the inclination to take root in one of the old tavernas, drinking Greek coffee so thick you can almost chew it, becomes more enticing the older I get. Almighty views and serenity are part of the package at Casale Panayiotis, in the Marathasa Valley, Troodos. Its seven stone houses, nature trails, fabulous spa and cuisine provide the peace we all need. Immerse yourself in village life on this excellent tour from Not in the Guidebooks, which includes a halloumi and anari cheese-making workshop. Cyprus's second largest city — after Nicosia — is Limassol, the island's main port. Its location, roughly in the middle of the coastline that runs from Ayia Napa to Paphos, means it is an excellent base, as well being culturally and historically rich. Its two main sites are the royal city of Amathous, dating from 1100BC, and Kourion, from the 12th century BC, where the vast amphitheatre is still used. Spectacular archaeology aside, there is great pleasure to be had from wandering down the time-worn alleyways, and discovering the architecture. Much of it is crumbling, which is part of its charm. Or join the locals for a stroll along the palm tree-lined Molos Promenade, the best place for people-watching. For families, the award-winning Fasouri Watermania Waterpark, is a must, while wine lovers will find plenty of vineyards to enjoy. The charming Heart Hotel, in a historic building, is in one of the best parts of the city. Elegance and affordability in one. Experience some defining characteristics of Cyprus — history, culture and food and wine — on this tour of Limassol and the village of Omodos. It ends with a visit to a traditional taverna followed by wine tasting at award-winning Gerolemo Winery. • Best hotels in Cyprus• Best all-inclusive hotels in Cyprus The village of Lefkara is known throughout the world for its handmade lace and silverwork, and is a favourite of mine. The skills and designs have been passed down from one generation to the next and when I visit I sometimes meet the daughters and granddaughters of the women I met decades before. They sit where their relatives sat, on the same terrace, perhaps even on the same chair, making their lace in the traditional way — using a single needle. Visit the Museum of Traditional Embroidery and Silversmith to learn more. Make the most of your visit to Lefkara with a stay at the chic Agora Hotel. Weave a basket, enjoy a traditional Cypriot meal and then try local honey on this one-day is a fascinating city that wears its centuries of history and modern-day cosmopolitanism with ease. Some of the best places to visit include 16th-century Famagusta Gate and Plateia Eleftherias, the main square that was redesigned by the architect Zaha Hadid. Don't miss the quintessential Turkish bath experience at Hamam Omerye either; like Famagusta Gate, it has been a part of Nicosia's built heritage since the 1570s. Nicosia is now the world's last remaining divided capital, a fact that is visible at the Green Line, or United Nations buffer zone, which runs through the city, separating the Greek sector from the Turkish: if not an attraction, it's certainly a point of interest worth seeing. If you wish to cross the border, head to Ledra Street — and take your passport. Right in the heart of Nicosia's historic district, the Classic Hotel Nicosia is the ideal base for exploring the capital. You'll get the chance to explore Nicosia with a guide, visiting the Arab Ahmet mosque and the Dervish Pasha mansion, on this eight-day tour of northern Cyprus with Titan. It's easy to dismiss Larnaca as the place you pass through on arrival and departure, or as a base to reach Nicosia, Ayia Napa and Limassol, but if you can spare a couple of days, you'll be well rewarded. For a start, Larnaca Salt Lake is a beautiful wetland with an abundance of flora and fauna, and fossils from millions of years ago. For divers, there is the wreck of the Zenobia, a ferry that capsized and sank here (with no casualties) in 1980; for families, pristine beaches, including the blue-flag Mckenzie beach; for history lovers there is 12th-century Larnaca Castle, the Unesco-listed Choirokoitia neolithic settlement and more. And for diners and/or dancers, there's a wealth of excellent restaurants and nightlife. The Olympic Lagoon Resort is an excellent family hotel with a huge swimming pool. Visit some of Larnaca's architectural and archaeological landmarks on this three-hour private guided known for its nightlife, but there's far more to this former fishing village than the headlines would have you believe. Yes, it's close to the British base of Dhekelia, and yes, you are likely to see young squaddies sinking a pint or two, but look a little further and you will find mile after mile of golden sand (all beaches have blue flag status), an August summer festival with free events such as concerts, folk dancing and art exhibitions, a beautiful honey-coloured 16th-century monastery and some top-flight dining. The two-pool, two-restaurant Napa Mermaid Hotel & Suites is 100m from the beach, and has public transport connections to Paralimni, Protaras, Larnaca and Nicosia. Spend the day splashing around at WaterWorld Ayia Napa, where there are more than 30 rides and attractions inspired by ancient Greek mythology. Five miles northeast of Ayia Napa is Protaras. Quieter, and with lots of family-friendly activities including mini-golf courses, it's a great option for exploring the east coast. The key attraction is the soft-sanded beach at Fig Tree Bay, where the warm, shallow waters are the perfect place to teach youngsters how to swim. Nature is just as beguiling away from the beach, with lovely trails that will take you to landmarks such as the Church of Profitis Ilias. In a great location just a few minutes' walk from Fig Tree Bay and dozens of restaurants, Andreotis Hotel & Apartments punches well above its three-star rating. Enjoy a different perspective of the east coast, plus swims in Turtle Cove and the Blue Lagoon, on this three-hour cruise. The glass-bottomed boat has an air-conditioned underwater deck with 23 portholes for observing marine life. • Best family hotels in Cyprus• Best luxury villas in Cyprus
The Independent
15-05-2025
- The Independent
7 of the best places to visit in Cyprus for a holiday in 2025
An island rich in historic sites, unique cuisine and charming coastal resorts, Cyprus continues to uphold its reputation as an island that can cater to every type of traveller. The sparkling crystal Mediterranean Sea wraps around this island like a silky scarf. Situated just under Turkey, the island has almost year-round warm weather to enjoy the Med's waves across its popular seaside spots and beach resorts. While it's hard to draw yourself away from soaking up the sun, flopping on a lounger with a book in one hand and a cocktail in the other, the island combines this distinctly laid-back way of life with immeasurable amounts of Mediterranean history, as well as characterful hotspots for lively nightlife. Capital Nicosia is the cultural epicentre of the country, while Paphos is its ancient historic centre, with ruins dating back centuries. You'll find plenty of delightful beaches there too. The Troodos Mountains offer an escape into the wilderness with picturesque villages, hiking trails and even ski slopes, while Limassol and Larnaca provide a relaxed beach resort alternative away from the party-centric town of Ayia Napa. There are plenty of accommodation options available in all seven of our Cyprus hotspots, or you can always visit on a day trip, as the island is small enough to get across easily in just a few hours. Read on to find the best places to visit during your trip. Best places to visit in Cyprus 2025 1. Paphos Best for: Nightlife Paphos remains one of the country's most popular tourist destinations, with sparkling year-round weather allowing you to make the most of its Mediterranean promenade and beaches like Aphrodite's Rock, Coral Bay or the Blue Lagoon. The city itself comprises a charming old town (filled with colourful architecture, alfresco restaurants and great harbour views), a host of surrounding ancient ruins, a lively nightlife scene and great options for day trips such as vineyard tours or visits to other nearby towns. Tourist highlights include the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park and its many ruins – which range from villas and mosaics to a 4th-century acropolis and the Odeon, an outdoor theatre – as well as the Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery and the Harbour Castle. For a stay overlooking the sea, the Alexander the Great Hotel is an elegant beachfront property located minutes from Paphos harbour. It combines old-fashioned luxury with contemporary touches – from the opulent decor to the modern spa and five dining options – and features four swimming pools, a fitness centre and a terrace that is among the best sunset viewing spots in town. 2. Nicosia Best for: History The capital is a magnificent showcase of Cypriot history, where Venetian, Ottoman and Byzantine architecture attests to the city's complicated past. The skyline is dominated by russet-tiled roofs and walls of white and honey, with an old town surrounded by 16th-century Venetian city walls, delightful squares such as the recently redesigned Plateia Eleftherias and quaint neighbourhoods like the Chrysaliniotissa Quarter or Laïki Geitona. Cyprus is divided into two parts by the UN-administered Green Line, which runs right through the country's capital. The north and south of the city are separated into the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, and the immediate area around the line is a good place to learn about recent Cypriot history. Parts of Ottoman and Byzantine life remain today in the city's many churches, mosques and the Hamam Omerye bathhouse. Archangelos Michail and Agios Ioannis are the main churches, while the Omeriye Mosque stands out as a working mosque that non-Muslims can visit. For the best views of both sides of the city, ascend the Shacolas Tower Observatory. Choose the Djumba Hotel and Cafe for a boutique hotel stay in Europe's last divided capital. It combines traditional Cypriot architecture and hospitality with a touch of the Mediterranean and offers cosy and modern rooms, a courtyard and terrace and lovely local food options. 3. Limassol Best for: Beaches Limassol is a busier, more cosmopolitan alternative to Paphos or Larnaca. It is the second-largest city on the island, with a picturesque marina and beaches including Lady's Mile, Dasoudi Beach and Governor's Beach that offer safe swimming. Stretching back from the waterfront, the city itself is a collection of white-washed buildings that line cobbled limestone streets, with a mix of high-rise buildings and preserved heritage sites. Older historic sites include Limassol Castle, Kolossi Castle and the 2,000-year-old ruins at Amathus, while you can also day-trip to the ancient ruins of Kourion, once one of the island's most important city-kingdoms. For a stay at a seaside location that is also within the city's historic centre, The S Paul City Hotel means guests can pair beach visits with easy strolls through the old town. Interiors here fuse the modern with the traditional in a series of 22 minimalist rooms housed within a 19th-century stone building, and guests can enjoy easy access to the bar and its two restaurants. 4. Larnaca Best for: Scuba diving Larnaca lies along the southern coast of Cyprus, just east of Paphos and Limassol, so it benefits from much of the same great weather and superb beaches. Standouts are Makenzy, Finikoudes, Kastella and Dhekelia. Larnaca is probably less glamorous than its resort town neighbours but has a solid tourist infrastructure and enough sites to keep you occupied over a long weekend (if you decide you want to leave the beach). Lined with plenty of hotels and restaurants, Leoforos Athinon is the main thoroughfare, linking the marina with Larnaka Fort. Many of the city's main sites are close by, including the Agios Lazaros (a 9th-century church), the museums of natural history and archaeology and the site of Ancient Kition, an ancient Greek city-kingdom. Half a day can also be spent exploring areas like the Turkish Quarter or experiencing the phenomenal scuba diving on the Zenobia, one of the best wrecks in the world. The towns of Protaras and Ayia Napa are also both within easy reach. The Lokàl provides a boutique hotel stay in the heart of Larnaca, just minutes away from the city's main attractions. A family-run hotel with a distinctly homely feel, it lies just 300 metres from Foinikoudes Beach and offers its own rooftop terrace pool, along with a bar and modern Mediterranean bistro. 5. Protaras Best for: Families Protaras offers more of a laid-back, family-friendly alternative to the well-known party atmosphere of Ayia Napa. It is smaller too, stretching from Fig Tree Bay in the south to Trinity Bay in the north (just over a 10-minute drive up the coast). There are plenty of other bits of attractive coastline too, including the Blue Flag beaches of Konnos Bay and Pernera. Many of the activities in Protaras are aimed at families, with mini-golf courses, amusement arcades and the Ocean Aquarium all within easy reach. The Konnos Nature Trail offers hiking opportunities, while Cape Greco is the place to go for the best coastal views. The Church of Profitis Ilias, perched on a hill overlooking the coast, offers one of the most scenic views in town. To stay at the beachfront in Protaras, Sunrise Jade is an adults-only oasis centred around its two large outdoor pools and an elegant terrace. Rooms are minimal with muted tones, and some come with direct access to their own small private pool. 6. Troodos Mountains Best for: Hiking This mountain range shows a different side to Cyprus, with quiet mountain villages surrounded by dense pine forests and medieval churches sitting alongside historic monasteries. Cooler temperatures allow for summer hiking and in the winter months, you can even go skiing on the slopes of Mount Olympus, Cyprus's tallest peak. The main settlement here, and the best base for tourists, is Troodos village, which sits just under Mount Olympus. Some of the most desirable villages to visit include Fikardou, Pedoulas and Agros, all of which are well-preserved and filled with churches and russet-roofed buildings that hug the verdant hills. Hiking trails in the area to check out include the Caledonia, Millomeris and Artemis. The Troodos Mountains are full of traditional villages and accompanying hotels, but the Casale Panayiotis combines a picturesque mountain setting with modern amenities and traditional Cypriot touches. It is located in the town of Kalapanayiotis, and set in a series of traditional houses that contain contemporary rooms with period features. The Byzantino restaurant serves traditional cuisine, while guests can enjoy the use of a spa, swimming pool and large courtyard. 7. The Lemesos Region While the city of Limassol largely dominates this area with its sparkling marina and popular beaches, the region of Lemesos in which it sits offers even more Cypriot experiences beyond the main port. The region is known for its wine, being home of the island's wine-making industry. On the southern slopes of the Troodos Mountains, wine aficionados will find the 'Krasochoria' wine villages, which carry on the viticulture tradition with production of such tipples like the Commandaria sweet dessert wine. The vineyards make for a tranquil retreat away from the city centre, as well as a chance to indulge in a glass or two of the region's finest bottles. Lemesos also plays an important part in Cyprus' history. It's where the ancient city kingdoms of Amathus and Kourion once thrived, and nowadays, its archaeological remains can be visited and give a glimpse into the island's chaotic political history. Once you have tired of the bustling city of Limassol, heading further inland to Lemesos' wetland area offers opportunity for hikes, fishing or observing birds. Germasogeia Dam has a popular hiking trail around its reservoir, while Cyprus' largest inland body of water, Akrotiri Salt Lake, attracts flocks of flamingos, cranes and other waders that migrate there in the winter months. If you are looking to stay among the Krasochoria and its wineries, book a room at the Petit Palais Platres, a hillside accommodation not too far from the vineyards that showcases an expansive view over Troodos' evergreen forests. When not exploring Platres village or hopping over to the wineries in Omodos, Petit Palais' sauna and steam bath will help you unwind further at this hidden rural retreat. FAQs What currency do I need in Cyprus? Cyprus uses the Euro (€ ). How can I travel to Cyprus from the UK? Several airlines offer direct flights from various UK airports to Larnaca (LCA) and Paphos (PFO). Flights with Wizz Air, Jet2, British Airways and easyJet take around 4 hours and 30 minutes. What is the time difference between the UK and Cyprus? Cyprus is two hours ahead of the United Kingdom. When is the best time to travel? Like much of southern Europe, Cyprus swelters in the peak of summer. According to the Met Office, the mercury rises to an average daily temperature of 31.4C in July and 31.6C in August. These figures may seem reasonable, but last year's weather was anything but – a figure of 44C was recorded by the Cypriot Meteorological Department in June 2024. Unless your single aim is to be horizontal on a sun bed, the shoulder season is a better bet for sightseeing and exploring this historic island without worrying about your health. May has an average temperature of 25.6C, while September and October enjoy a balmy average of 29.7C and 27.3C respectively. The lowest daily average temperature occurs in January at 16.9C.
