April 6, 2009

Peppianna Cyprus Villas

These truly stunning villas at Pepianna are a must look for anyone who is thinking of buying a second home or thinking of buying a property to rent. Make sure you check out the video below.

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March 31, 2009

North Cyprus Vacation Properties

20.jpgNorth Cyprus vacation properties offer you the vacation of your dreams. Whether you dream of spending a week nestled in the side of an olive tree covered mountainside exploring the quaint villages or a week soaking up the sun with the clear, crisp waters of the Mediterranean lapping at your toes, North Cyprus vacation properties can provide just what you need. North Cyprus has everything for an exciting adventure - from ancient ruins and castles to explore to some of nature's finest offerings. Whether you like to hike in the mountains, swim in the seas, or get acquainted with the culture of this magnificent island, there are North Cyprus vacation properties to meet your needs.

Perhaps you are dreaming of a romantic getaway in a quaint little cottage designed for privacy, or maybe a hotel or condo located centrally to the excitement of the beaches, or perhaps even experiencing the life of a prince or princess in one of the ancient castles. No matter what your fantasy vacation, North Cyprus vacation properties have it all. In North Cyprus, you can enjoy a hike in the mountains one day and a swim in the sea the next. There is so much of nature's beauty to explore and enjoy, once you arrive, you will never want to leave. A perfect mixture of the old and the new, you can learn how ancient civilizations lived while enjoying the modern comforts you are accustomed to.

The island of Cyprus has been a stepping-stone between the eastern and western worlds for over 9000 years. Filled with exciting ancient ruins just waiting to be explored, North Cyprus is a virtual paradise for the explorer and history buff. Nature lover's are just as excited once they get a look at the flowers and wildlife, many of can only be found on the island and some that are on the endangered list, that can be seen while hiking the beautiful mountainsides. Fresh olives and oranges surround you with aromatic fragrances wherever you go. If you get tired of exploring, you can take a break and relax in the cool, refreshing waters of the Mediterranean.

Are you ready to explore the exotic island received by Cleopatra as a gift? Are you ready to experience the hospitality of quaint villagers who welcome visitors with open arms and ply them with local food and entertainment? Are you ready to experience the Mediterranean at it's finest? North Cyprus vacation properties.

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Cyprus Island - History in the Mediterranean Sea

1028189_villa_canizzo.jpgThe third largest island in the heart of the pristine Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus, is full of rich history, splendors that dazzle the eye and incredible attractions making it one of the world's most prominent tourist attractions. With its easy access form all corners of the earth; there is no reason to skip out on this alluring island paradise.

Cyprus has a culture rich with Western Europe. Greek mythology calls the island the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty. It's location being close to the shores of Africa and Asia it is riddled with touches of the East. Its rich, cultural tones, which creep throughout the island, are an excellent place to start your journey, immersing yourself in an ambience soaked in fascinating history.

The city of Limassol is the second largest city of Cyprus, which flourishes with ancient ruins and modern wonders. One of the first places to greet tourists like a stone monolith looming on the horizon is Kolossi Castle. The castle was said to be the marriage place of Richard the Lion Heart to Berengaria of Navarro after the returning form the Crusades. It was destroyed during the 15th century but was rebuilt on a smaller scale then left to ruin and eventually the British restored the castle in 1933.

Within the city limits of Limassol lies the ancient city of Kourion. Containing some of the most masterful ruins on Cyprus, this ancient city should not be overlooked. The ruins contain a Greco-Roman theatre, which is a breath-taking sight to behold. Other key attractions in Kourion are the House of Gladiators, the House of Achilles and several well-preserved mosaics. Another place of interest is the Cyprus Medieval Museum that is housed in the Limassol Castle. If able to do so, a whole day could easily be spent exploring what the past has to offer.

Nicosia, the capital of the island, is filled with museums and districts delivering information about the history, art, literature and culture have laid the foundation for the island's colorful culture. Among them is the famous Byzantine Museum that contains historical artifacts ranging between the 9th and 18th centuries. Laiki Yitonia is an area filled with pedestrians that boasts restaurants, art galleries, and shopping. The architecture of this area pays homage to a forgotten era in the history of Cyprus.

In the capital city lie the ruins of the Kingdom of Idalion. The Ancient city is still in the process of being excavated but here this is the location with roots deep in mythological lore. This is the place where her jealous husband, through use of a wild boar, killed Aphrodite's lover, Adonis. The ancient city can be seen on the outskirts of the village, Dhali.

Among the historical sights, Cyprus is also known for its glorious festivals that occur though out the year. In June, Kataklysmos, the Festival of the Flood, takes place in Limassol. On the Sunday after Pentecost and the Monday of the Holy Spirit, people gather on the near sea to douse each other in water from the sea in honor of Aphrodite and Adonis. Singing and dance contests last thought out the festival spreading jubilation to all who attend.

In late August and early September, tourists flock in great hordes to take part in the Limassol Wine Festival. It rivals the festivals held by the ancient Greeks honoring Dionysus, the God of Wine and Aphrodite. At this festival, the locals serve up mouth-watering dishes, a vast medley of wines and a heart-warming environment with local theatre, music and dancing. This festival is the perfect time to visit Cyprus and save money while doing it (the festival is free of charge).

Although it is hidden deep in the realm of the gorgeous blue Mediterranean, Cyprus offers quite the travel destination. With is fair climate year round, there isn't a poor time to visit and get lost in culture far different from your own.

Nick Nikolis is working in Atlantica Hotels and Resorts as It manager in Rhodos. Atlantica Hotels and Resorts is a Europe Hotels chain currently offering lodging services in Cyprus Greece and Egypt. Check here Greece Hotels and Cyprus Hotels.

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March 18, 2009

Limassol Villas

Make sure you have a look at this short video on Limassol Villas.

These new villas are situated in the East Coast of Limassol, next to the beach and in a sought after location which offers tranquility, the sandy beaches and Marina.

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March 12, 2009

Try Villas For Rent in Cyprus Long Term

1046222_bow_and_stern.jpgHave you have ever dreamed of taking off to a place where you can leave pressures of daily life behind you and enjoy endless days of sunshine? If you have maybe you should consider taking some time out of the daily grind and come to Cyprus. The island is the third largest in the Mediterranean, but still small enough to easily to find your way around. There is a large selection of sights to see, beaches to enjoy and local dishes and wines to savour. There is a great choice of villas to rent in Cyprus for long term if you don't want to be committed to buying Cyprus property for sale initially.

Cyprus lies just south of Turkey and has a long history as a crossing point between Europe, Asia and Africa. Because of this it still has traces of the many successive civilisations - Roman theatres and villas, Byzantine churches and monasteries, Crusader castles and pre-historic habitats. If you are thinking of testing the water as it were, before buying Cyprus property for sale then villas for rent in Cyprus for the long term or even self catering Cyprus apartments can be more comfortable and spacious than a hotel or a motel to stay in and you will have creature comforts such as fully equipped kitchens, air conditioning and often a swimming-pool in maintained gardens.

Many Europeans, including over 50,000 British have made their permanent home here, many in villas for rent in Cyprus for long term, thanks to the traditions, charm and hospitality of the locals. The island has a fascinating history with a story to tell on every corner, take time and speak to Cypriots for a true feel of this ancient culture, you will find them friendly, interesting and most will speak English.

Many factors attract people to Southern Cyprus from all over the world; its admission to the European Union in 2004, excellent infrastructure, high quality of life, low level of unemployment, comparatively low cost of living, generous tax incentives and allowances and one of the lowest crime rates in Europe. It is the UK's 5th most popular holiday destination according to Channel 4's Amanda Lamb. And she ranks Cyprus property for sale ahead of the Costa del Sol, Tuscany, the French Riviera and Florida as the place to invest in property.

Villas for rent in Cyprus for long term and self catering Cyprus apartments are readily available in places such as Paphos, Limassol and Larnaca, especially if you don't want to drive and enjoy the hustle and bustle of towns. If you are thinking of staying in Protaras or Ayia Napa, there is a marked contrast in the number of tourists and locals visiting and of bars and restaurants open between for example the months of August and January, so do check that you are going to get the holiday you want!

Villas for rent in Cyprus for long term are also a way for owners who are not going to fully use their properties to earn some income from them. There is a steady market for tenants who for whatever reasons are not in a position to buy - it's a win, win situation!

Kate Smith works in Cyprus property for sale Kate says villas for rent in Cyprus long term are great to try before you buy

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February 23, 2009

Travellers Guide to Cyprus

1151001_blue_ocean_1.jpgCyprus, the third largest Mediterranean island, is a former British colony which gained independence in 1960. Differences between its ethnic Greek and Turkish communities subsequently led to the separation of the island between the Turkish north and Southern Greek. A UN buffer zone now separates the two halves of the island.

A UN attempt to rejoin the island was rejected by Greek Cypriots (who make up seventy seven per cent of the population) in a 2004 referendum. However, a month later the Greek Cypriot Republic of Cyprus joined the EU: meaning that EU laws now apply to the southern end of the island.

The (Nothern) Turkish side of the island does not have international recognition. Despite the island's political differences, its economy relies substantially on tourism. The climate is Mediterranean, but Cyprus suffers from some water shortages and there is a small risk of earthquakes.

The 1960 Constitution provided for a presidential system of government with independent executive, legislative, and judicial branches, as well as a complex system of checks and balances, which includes a weighted power-sharing ratio made to protect the interests of the Turkish Cypriots.

The executive, was headed by a Greek Cypriot president and a Turkish Cypriot Vice President elected by their respective populations for 5 year terms, each possessing a right of veto over certain types of legislation and executive decisions.

Legislative power rested on the House of Representatives, also elected on a basis of separate voters' rolls. Since 1964, following clashes between the two communities, the Turkish Cypriot seats in the House remain vacant.

Low property prices remain low in the Republic of Cyprus compared to European standards but have been moving up rapidly in recent years. As land available is limited and EU membership is likely to bring greater prosperity, this is a trend which is likely to continue.

Cyprus has an array of property laws with title is based upon registration. The Land Registry also records charges and encumberances on the property.

Foreign nationals may acquire property and are in fact encouraged to do so. Both foreign investors and retired people who settle permanently in Cyprus are offered various incentives including duty free facilities and extremely low taxation of overseas income.

However the law requires foreign property buyers to obtain permission from the Council of Ministers before the property can be registered in their name. Investors more often than not take possession of property while this process is underway as permission is usually granted in the case of single properties.

The Exchange Officer of the Central Bank of Cyprus should be notified once permission has been obtained so that a certificate verifying the amount paid in money brought into the country can be certified. At this point transfer fees of up to 8 per cent become payable by the buyer. Stamp duty of up to 0.2 per cent is also payable before ownership can be registered.

Up to date property sales in Cyprus can be found on Fly2let.net the free unbiased resource for overseas property investors. For UK investment property information visit Residentiallandlord.co.uk.

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February 11, 2009

Finding Accommodation in Cyprus

781487_elounda_crete_1.jpgCyprus is located in the East Mediterranean. The local population consists largely of Greek people. There is a large number of tourists that visit Cyprus every year. It is one of the most relaxing vacation spots in the world. It has become a very popular European vacation destination because of its mild weather, beautiful terrain, and ocean view. Because of this many people have purchased land and houses in Cyprus as private vacation homes. This has driven the cost of land in Cyprus incredibly high and so finding accommodation in Cyprus is harder than ever.

Someone interested in visiting Cyprus should be aware of its popularity. Since the island is so small, and so many people want to visit there, it can be hard to find a place to stay. Reservations should be made well in advance of taking the trip out there. There are a few hotels in Cyprus that a tourist can stay in. The Internet is a great place to find the cheapest hotels available in the Cyprus area. Many people who wish to purchase land in Cyprus must stay in a hotel while they look for houses and properties for sale. Hotel prices are generally high, and finding a place that has extended stay options can be difficult. A lot of hotels are located near the airport.

Another place to stay is in lodge-style accommodations. Many locally run places are in this category and they are usually run in a more traditional style that is reminiscent of Cyprus history. These lodges are usually situated away from the large city areas, and have more of a rural feel. These are wonderful places to stay if a relaxing, un-hurried vacation is desired. Finding accommodation in Cyprus that have a more intimate feel provide the perfect element of relaxation.

One way that many Europeans vacation in Cyprus is by renting a private house to stay in for a weekend, week, month, or all summer. A lot of these houses available for rent are on or near the beach, which is a great advantage. Finding accommodation in Cyprus for this type of location is best done online. There are many listings of available places or people to contact online. Renting a private house is often better than staying in a hotel because it is easier to participate in the local feel of the whole island. It is easy to miss the cultural experience if trapped in a hotel.

Some people decide to purchase property in Cyprus. This ensures that they will always have a place to stay when they desired. Other people purchase property and rent it out to other vacationers. This is a great source of income. However, since Cyprus has become so popular, the property and home prices are very high. Usually prices range somewhere around $2,000 per square foot. For a 1,000 square foot home, this would come out to cost around 2,000,000 dollars. These prices are not for everyone. Finding accommodation in Cyprus for sale has become harder and harder as prices rise and properties are more in demand.

Finding accommodation takes some careful planning and foresight, but it is not impossible. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing beach vacation, stay in the mountains, be pampered in a resort, or even purchase property in Cyprus, you can be sure to receive more than you hoped for. There are many good reasons why the island of Cyprus has become one of the most popular vacation spots for Europeans and other people. Any time spent in Cyprus will be relaxing, exciting, and beautiful. Check here Greece hotels and Greece Villas.

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Property For Sale in Cyprus and Houses For Sale in Cyprus - Should You Invest?

If you are interested in taking a look at property for sale in Cyprus there is some basic information that you do want to keep in mind. Through this article you are provided a primer to consider when it comes to purchasing property for sale in Cyprus in this day and age.

Of course, if you are like many people, one of your most immediate questions (perhaps concerns) may center upon the history of the island over the course of the past forty some years. If you do pay attention to media reports during this time period, you are aware that Cyprus is a divided island temporarily - with people of Greek origin occupying one part of the island and people of Turkish origin occupying the other.

When considering property for sale in Cyprus you do need to know that while it is true that there has been some conflict through the years between individuals of Greek and Turkish origins who reside on the island, for the past 35 years there is sustainable peace.

Moreover, there has been a growing commitment on the part of both populations on the island to remain committed to developing ongoing methods through which they can live together today and into the future.

All these factors, coupled with the fact that Cyprus is a fantastic island, showered with sun almost all through out the year, make buying property for sale in Cyprus a very appealing decision.  The majority of people investing in houses for sale in Cyprus have so far been British, but Russians have been entering the Cyprus property market in recent years.

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January 26, 2009

Holiday Deals to Cyprus

1111773_view_of_caldera.jpgCyprus or island of Aphrodite lies in the eastern part of Mediterranean Sea and is one of its biggest islands. It is a land with over 300 sunny days on year, so no wonder that Cyprus is the perfect destination for a beach holiday, especially when vacations are spent into all inclusive hotels or resorts. A beach holiday in Cyprus has a specific charm because this island offers a lot of ancient artifacts, splendid beaches with fine sand, great accommodation in comfortable hotels, very tasty foods and interesting cultural experiences, to not speaking about its extremely friendly people!

Holiday deals to Cyprus are offered in large number. There is no travel agency which don't include in its brochures a few vacation packages to Cyprus. This deals range from regular packages that include bed and breakfast up to all inclusive holiday deals in exquisite beach resorts that include everything, from airfare to airport transfers, from accommodation to meals, from cocktails and drinks to snacks, from spa services to vacation activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, yachting, cultural tours and visits to local wine cellars where can be tasted the famous Cypriot wines.

As many people perhaps know, Cyprus is divided in two parts, Northern (known also as Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) and Southern Cyprus. Even if there is a unique country, member of European Union, the both parts are leaded by different ethnic communities, Turk in north and Greek in South. Today this communities live in peace and in both sides can be spent a great beach holiday. In south one of the most famous vacation destinations that offers the best deals is Paphos, with spots like Polis, Coral Bay and Kato Paphos. Beside hotels and luxurious beach resorts, there are plenty of villas with swimming pools and apartment rentals, so tourists have no problems finding accommodation that fit at best their needs.

Northern Cyprus offers also unforgettable vacations. There are many archaeological sites and ancient castles to visit. For nature lovers a great spot is the Karpaz Peninsula, where come sea turtles to nest and many species of birds can be seen in the migration period. Town of Kyrenia (Girne in Turkish), is considered to be the jewel of the northern part of the island. There are located many hotels and resorts where can be found great holiday deals and spent beautiful vacations. Kyrenia attracts not just with its beach resorts, but also with its old harbor, where is located the magnificent Byzantine Kyrenia castle, once used as prison by the British.

Cyprus is blessed with a splendid year round warm weather and a majestic natural beauty. This, along with extremely affordable deals offered by most beach resorts, attract a large number of holiday makers who want to step back in history or simply enjoy relaxing vacations on some of the most beautiful beaches that the Mediterranean Sea has to offer. Read more travel information about Cyprus on Cyprus Holiday Deals.

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January 19, 2009

What to See in Famagusta North Cyprus With Your Car Hire

1093743_biribilla.jpgFamagusta - Time Travel in a North Cyprus Car Hire

The ancient city of Farmagusta provides some of the finest maintained and restored architecture from medieval times to be found in the entire eastern Mediterranean region. The city's remarkable reminders of ancient days are exhilarating and remind many travelers of some of the world's best maintained medieval cities.Although the early history of the town remains shrouded in mystery, many historians believe the first settlements occurred here around the 3rd century B.C. Later, during the time of the Crusades, the town became a principal market of commerce located along the popular trade routes through the Eastern Mediterranean region.

North Cyprus Car Hire - Things to See in Famagusta

Much like the walled city of Carcassone, France, the ancient city of Farmagusta remains encircled by the defensive walls that were originally built in the 12th century by the Lusignan family of western France. Later, while the city was under the control of the Venetian forces, the walls were improved and strengthened. These walls are huge, averaging 60 feet high and 30 feet thick or 18 meters high and 9 meters thick. One particularly interesting section of the wall is the original 15th century iron covered gate to the city, Porta del Mare or Sea Gate, that still maintains its original appearance. The Venetian control over, and improvements to, the town are evidenced in the statue of the winged lion of Venice that can be seen at the Porta del Mare as well as prominently elsewhere throughout the old town. The largest medieval building in the city is the impressive Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque building that dates from the 14th century. This building was the Cathedral of St. Nicholas until the Ottomans conquered the island in the 16th century and converted the cathedral to a mosque. Many visitors have noted that the style of the building is reminiscent of the great medieval cathedrals of France. This is not an unexpected comparison since French families ruled the island of Cyprus from the 12th to the 15th century and it was here in the cathedral that various French family members were crowned as King of Cyprus. This French influence is also obvious in the great rose window that is located above the building's main entry doors.

Today, located just south of the old town, the forbidden city of Varosha can only be seen through the wire fence that surrounds it. Prior to the invasion of Cyprus by Turkish forces in 1974, this modern Varosha neighborhood of Farmagusta was the number one tourist area in Cyprus. Many high rise hotels had been built here to accommodate the large number of international travelers that visited the city in the early 1970s. But when the Turkish army seized control of the city in 1974 they fenced the area off and no one was admitted. Even today only members of the Turkish military and United Nations personnel are allowed to enter the abandoned city. After 34 years of abandonment the once-modern buildings are nowfalling apart and many stores and restaurants look as if they were just abandoned, with tables still set for diners and clothing still on the shelves.

North Cyprus Car Hire - Things to See near Famagusta

One advantage of having a North Cyprus car hire is that it gives you the ability to visit more remote sites that are located near larger towns like Farmagusta. For example, the excavated ruins of ancient Salamis are located just a short drive up the coast and include a Greek theater that seated as many as 20,000 people as well as many Roman structures and classical monuments. Another outstanding site in Salamis is the 4th century Kampanopetra Basilica located at a spot near the harbor and overlooking the sea. The Basilica's elaborate floor pattern, consisting of 2,400 individual diamond shaped stones, is exquisite. This important city of ancient Cyprus may have originally been settled by Greek colonists following the end of the Trojan War. Later, it was visited by Saint Paul during his first journey as a missionary.

With your North Cyprus car hire you can also visit the nearby ruins of Engomi, a powerful city that existed during the Bronze Age around the year 2,000 B.C. Treasures that have been recovered from the tombs found here have included gold and ivory as well as glass vases and rare pottery. The settlement of Engomi is believed to have been abandoned around 1000 B.C. when an earthquake destroyed many of the buildings and the residents moved to the nearby town of Salamis. Whether walking through the city of Farmagusta on foot or driving through the surrounding area in your North Cyprus hire car, the time spent in this fascinating town of ancient Cyprus may be the highlight of your trip to North Cyprus.

Are you travelling to North Cyprus with your family? If your answer is "yes" Please get information about North Cyprus first before you hire a car in North Cyprus

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