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JANUARY 2015
ISSUE 23
NICOSIA REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT GOES AHEAD THE CABINET APPROVED THE APPLICATION FOR INCLUDING TROODOS INTO THE EUROPEAN GEOPARKS NETWORK, A MOVE THAT IS EXPECTED TO PROMOTE THE REGION AS WELL AS CYPRUS IN TERMS OF THEMATIC TOURISM.
03 HERMES AIRPORTS INTRODUCES ELECTRONIC GATES
06 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE
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NICOSIA
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NAUTICAL NEWS
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AIRPORTS
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TRAVEL AGENTS
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TOURISM BOARDS
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ACCOMMODATION
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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RENDEZVOUS
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INTERNATIONAL / IN FOCUS
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NEWS & EVENTS
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TROODOS TO ACQUIRE EUROPEAN STATUS
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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba CONTRIBUTORS Dominique Christou Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian
Top Kinisis: Decreases in 2014 Top Kinisis Travel announced that for the first nine months of 2014, the group’s turnover amounted to EUR23.09 million compared to EUR23.70 million in the corresponding period of 2013. This represented a year-on-year decrease of 2.6 percent.
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he company’s operations in Greece signalled the highest drop as revenue reached just EUR185,000 compared to EUR190,000 achieved in the respective nine months of 2013. Operations in Cyprus also followed a negative course, dropping 1.72 percent and revenue totalled EUR22.9 million.
Louis Plagos Beach Goes Under the SENTIDO Brand
DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou
Louis announced that as of the summer of this year, Louis Plagos Beach in Zakynthos will be operating under the SENTIDO brand, ready to welcome guests with a series of fully upgraded and brand new indoor and outdoor facilities.
WEB DEVELOPER / IT Soteris Constantinou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi
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HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradecyprus.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradecyprus.travel
SENTIDO Louis Plagos Beach
he hotel will feature two new adult infinity pools, an outdoor freshwater pool, as well as a new spa and gym. Moreover, the four-star property, which will be renamed to SENTIDO Louis Plagos Beach, will also undergo an extensive refurbishment of all its rooms and public areas, and guests will be able to enjoy a new Greek tavern and bar by the deck.
PRINTED IN CYPRUS Cyprinters Ltd P.O. Box 58300, CY-3732, Limassol, Cyprus Tel: +357 25 720035, Fax: +357 25 720123 Email: info@cyprinters.com
Investments Are Crucial for Cyprus
Yiorgos Lakkotrypis, commerce, industry and tourism minister, Cyprus, gave a speech at the general annual meeting of the Cyprus Investment Promotional Agency, lauding the efforts of the authority in attracting new investors to the island. EXCHANGE RATES
Accurate as of
15/12/2014 COUNTRY
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CURRENCY
1EUR=
US (USD)
Dollar
1.24
UK (GBP)
Pound
0.79
Switzerland (CHF)
Franc
1.20
Japan (JPY)
Yen
147.30
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e specifically referred to the Buena Vista Hospitality Group project, estimated at EUR300 million, which will boost wellness and spa tourism in the country. Lakkotrypis also praised the government’s efforts to enrich and upgrade the tourism product with significant infrastructure projects such as marinas, golf courses and a casino. This is how Cyprus will be a tourist destination allyear-round, he concluded. JANUARY 2015
NICOSIA MONTHLY NEWS Nicosia Redevelopment Project Goes Ahead
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ollowing a competition by Nicosia Municipality, five companies have expressed their interest for the redevelopment of Eleftheria Square in downtown Nicosia. The assessment procedure for granting the project to any of the bidders will include evaluation and preparation of a report by a committee, which will comprise validation of documents to establish which companies satisfy the competition’s financial criteria; a review of overall data; and a municipal council meeting to make the final decision. The municipality aims to materialise the project within the preset deadlines so as to take full advantage of the external funding available.
Eleftheria Square rendering
Nicosia Airfield in the Spotlight
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he captivating illustrated history of Nicosia’s first airfield was on full display during a lecture in the capital. Presented by historians Tim Reardon and Diana Bridger, the event was held at Severis Foundation’s Centre of Visual Arts and Research. It showcased facts and photographs of the airfield, from the first plane to land until the airport’s closure in 1974. Reardon has been studying the history of Nicosia’s airport for the last three years, combining archive research with exploration of the site. Bridger has been working at the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus’ headquarters by the old airport, which inspired her to delve into the history of the airfield.
Nicosia Soon to Welcome Tram
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peaking at an event held by the Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Marios Demetriades, communications and works minister, Cyprus, commented that the techno-economical study concerning the development of a tram line in Nicosia will soon be completed. “The Ministry of Communications and Works is investigating the further development of public transport with the additional inclusion of other public transport means. With a population of about 250,000 inhabitants, Nicosia is a medium-sized town and as such, could be served by a joint public transport system in which the bus will be the basis, but where also a mass transport medium is necessary too,” said Demetriades.
JANUARY 2015
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MONTHLY NEWS CHA Contributes to Green Initiatives
Guide for Religious Tourism in Paphos Launched
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yprus Hotel Association (CHA) took part in a forum called Utilising Cyprus’ Biodiversity in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry, in a bid to reassure industry stakeholders that the association is active in the eco-tourism field with various initiatives. CHA prioritises energy conservation issues at its member hotels. It is actively taking part in the European project CARBONTOUR, which resulted in the development of a user-friendly software tool which helps in estimating and reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions at every tourist accommodation unit that uses it.
The Sunseeker event in London
Sunseeker London Introduces Limassol Marina to Its Audiences
Lycoming College Expedition to Dali
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n November 19, 2014, Sunseeker London officially opened its new showroom on Davies Street, Mayfair, with a pre-Christmas party for selected guests, in partnership with Limassol Marina, St George developments, Vestra Wealth, Watches of Switzerland, Porsche and Novikov. Guests were introduced to Limassol Marina, the yacht company’s newest showroom destination and Cyprus’ first superyacht hub, in the presence of Andreas Christodoulides, CEO, Limassol Marina. Sunseeker London sells motor yachts from 12m to 47m in length and has offices across the UK, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Egypt and the Caribbean.
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ollowing an initiative by Cyprus Hotel Association (CHA)’s local committee in Paphos, a special guide has been released featuring information on the most important monasteries and churches in the district. The material, distributed free of charge at local hotels, provides information to visitors, especially Russians, for the religious monuments and enables tourists to experience the long history of the country. The religious tourism guide, which also includes a road map, is aimed at satisfying the demand from the Russian orthodox market segment and thus is in Russian. Themis Philippides, chairman, Paphos district committee, CHA, commented that Paphos is a quality tourist destination that always strives to promote alternative forms of tourism.
he Department of Antiquities of the Ministry of Communications and Works announced the completion of the 2014 Lycoming College archaeological expedition to Idalion, under the direction of Pamela Gaber. The excavations took place from June 23 – August 8, 2014, and concentrated on the area of the Lower City South, below the site’s west acropolis, Ambelleri. This was the location of the City Sanctuary, the central place of worship at ancient Idalion. One of the team’s goals was to investigate this later development of the sanctuary, in addition to understanding how the deep, northern, Hellenistic structures relate to the Archaic structures at a much higher level, some 30m to the south.
JANUARY 2015
NAUTICAL MONTHLY NEWS
CSM Launches Shanghai Outpost
Limassol Marina to Welcome Peninsula Villas
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ovember 2014 witnessed Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM) celebrate the opening of Columbia Shipmanagement (Shanghai) together with its joint venture partner, Singhai Marine Services. The event, held in the Chinese city, gathered more than 150 guests, including senior representatives from the Shanghai Hongkou District Government, Shanghai Transport and Port Authority and Shanghai Maritime Safety Administration, as well as members from the local maritime and shipping industry. Through this new partnership, CSM continues to build on its long relationship with China which dates back to 1987, and which saw around 130 new ship building projects and supervision over the years.
JANUARY 2015
PCCI Looks to Put Paphos on Cruise Map
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imassol Marina is soon to welcome the first residents to its luxury waterfront villas with private berths attached to their garden or direct access to the beach. George Englezos, sales manager, Limassol Marina, commented on this next phase of development, “The completion of Peninsula Villas is yet another milestone that brings us closer to the reality we promised we would deliver. These villas are incredibly unique from a property sales’ perspective [...].”
aking into consideration the huge advantages of cruise tourism, Paphos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) announced that it is examining possible ways to develop the appropriate infrastructure for the city to start receiving cruise ships. The chamber’s council has already started negotiations with special counsellors, as it deems cruise tourism a segment of strategic importance. Representatives of the chamber plan meetings with Cyprus Ports Authority in order to discuss how Paphos harbour can welcome cruise vessels as well as cruise tourists.
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Louis Cruises Makes Year Assessment
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ouis Cruises revealed positive results of its Greek operations for 2014, while presenting its new subsidiary, Celestyal Cruises. During a press conference, Kiriakos Anastasiadis, CEO, Louis Cruises, unveiled the brand and its new logo, as part of the overall development strategy of the company. The vessels Louis Cristal and Louis Olympia will be renamed Celestyal Cristal and Celestyal Olympia to serve all markets where the company commercially operates as Celestyal. At the same time, the company will continue operating as Louis Cruises in Cyprus. Pythagoras Nagos, sales manager, Louis Cruises, made an assessment of 2014, which closed with an increase of 28 percent, transporting 117,361 passengers of 140 nationalities, who visited the Greek ports with the cruise ships of the company.
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MONTHLY NEWS AIRPORTS Hermes Airports Introduces Electronic Gates
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ermes Airports welcomed automatic electronic gates at Larnaka International Airport. This is the first phase of the implementation of an automated system which is located in the departures area and allows the travelling public, when carrying a printed copy of an airline’s boarding pass, to proceed directly to security check and then to the departure gates of the terminal. The process only requires the scanning of the boarding pass of each passenger. Hermes Airports has ensured that the usage of this system is also available to people with disabilities or reduced mobility.
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Inter afos t and P , r or the l Toge nal Airp nationa o r i e t r t a e n v n I aka dle o Larn or t han passenp Air million lly? a seven rs annu ge
Electronic gates at Larnaka International Airport
Larnaka International Airport Supports Innovation
OPAP Branch Opens at Larnaca’s Airport
H Inauguration of the exhibition
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n November 2014, Larnaka International Airport welcomed a new art exhibition titled Industrial Design and Innovations, aimed at illustrating the importance of innovation and creativity in Cyprus in light of the current economic climate. The designs were created by the pupils of local technical schools, under the guidance of their teachers and the acclaimed Cypriot architect and industrial designer, Nicolas Nicolaou. Wes Porter, CEO, Hermes Airports, stressed the importance of developing the knowledge, skills and abilities of young people for building a new promising perspective. “We want to see the expansion of new horizons, not only for the future of our students, our young investors and our scientists, but also for the future of this country,” he said.
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ermes Airports announced the opening of the new branch of the lottery and sports betting company, OPAP, at Larnaka International Airport. Located in the arrivals area, the branch is accessible to both arriving and departing passengers and also to the broader public visiting the airport. Welcoming the new addition, Wes Porter, CEO, Hermes Airports, congratulated OPAP and the team at Hermes Airports for the excellent collaboration that has resulted in the opening of the new branch. He also noted that each year more than six million people travel through Larnaka International Airport or visit its premises for various purposes, which means that OPAP now has access to a large customer base creating the opportunity for a successful business presence at the hub.
Wes Porter (right)
JANUARY 2015
MONTHLY NEWS Sustainable Development in Larnaca
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arnaka Tourism Board welcomed a cabinet decision for the development of three university campuses and a national park near Larnaca’s salt lake. The utilisation of old medical facilities within the city is to contribute towards the goal of sustainable development and is set to
improve economic parameters as well as protect and enhance Larnaca’s natural environment. The creation of the national park implies the further upgrading of the area of outstanding natural significance which both locals and tourists can enjoy.
Nea Pafos Excavations Completed
Excavations at the Nea Paphos site
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inistry of Communications and Works’ Department of Antiquities announced the completion of the 16th season of archaeological excavations at the site of the Hellenic-Roman theatre of Nea Pafos, conducted by an Australian team led by Craig Barker, manager, education and public programmes, University of Sydney. The team worked from August 16 – September 20, 2014, unearthing architectural remains carved out of the bedrock of the southern slope of Fabrika Hill, as well as a Roman nymphaeum and a paved Roman road south of the theatre. The two new trenches, which opened in 2014, uncovered the southern end of a 20m-long building from the 15th – 16th century BC, as well as a possible series of shops. The works are to continue this year.
JANUARY 2015
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MONTHLY NEWS
TROODOS TO ACQUIRE EUROPEAN STATUS The cabinet approved the application for including Troodos into the European Geoparks Network, a move that is expected to promote the region as well as Cyprus in terms of thematic tourism.
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he governmental body also approved the establishment of a steering committee responsible for guiding and supervising the management of the proposed geopark’s visitor centre and general matters relating to the facility. Troodos Development Company will take over as the management body of the centre for the first two years of its operation, with the possibility of renewal, and the state will fund the company contributing EUR10,000 per year for the same period.
Cyprus Hotels Drop Prices Following European Trends
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otel prices have decreased across Europe, according to the November 2014 trivago Hotel Price Index , reported monthly by hotel comparison website trivago. According to the survey, the largest hotel price decreases were found in Cyprus, as when compared to October 2014, prices have dropped by 29 percent to an average of EUR78 per night, for a double room. Cyprus and Greece were listed in the top six countries with the biggest declines, alongside Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy and Turkey. Based on the 50 most popular European cities on trivago, hotel prices have plunged by an average of 13 percent in comparison to October 2014.
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Troodos
Cyprus Proves Resilient
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European Travel Commission report, for the first three quarters of 2014, revealed that amongst many other European destinations, Cyprus has also shown healthy tourism growth in tourist visits, which reached six percent. The island suffered a marked fall in arrivals from Germany to the tune of 19.7 percent, consistent with a longer run trend, however the summer months somewhat mitigated these losses. Contrary to recent tendencies, large destinations have catalysed most tourism growth in 2014. Spain has been improving by a strong nine percent, on top of nearly 61 million visits reported in 2013. Arrivals to Greece were up by 16 percent, while Serbia, Portugal, Malta, Slovenia and Croatia have also noted steady development.
JANUARY 2015
TRAVEL AGENTS MONTHLY NEWS
Let’s Go Tours by Amathus: New Brochure
French and Dutch Agents Meet in Cyprus
French Travel Agents Hosted in Paphos
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et’s Go Tours by Amathus released its latest travel catalogue with its winter offers. The brochure features package options which include many European capitals, reaching as far as the Finnish Lapland and the modern Santa Claus’ village. Let’s Go Tours by Amathus also suggests short vacations or organised trips to popular, carefully selected destinations and affordable holidays with lowcost companies. Moreover, spa and ski packages are also available. The catalogue can be found at Amathus Travel’s offices as well as on the company’s website.
JANUARY 2015
fter a Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) initiative, the island hosted successive sales conferences with the participation of more than 415 French and 250 Dutch travel agents and tour operators. French company Selectour Afat held its own event in Paphos in November 2014, while the official Dutch tour operators association, ANVR, also organised its annual general meeting in the coastal town. CTO considers the events and their hosting a success which will promote Cyprus across Europe.
Leptos Coral Beach Hotel & Resort
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reative Tours and its French principals, Fram, organised two big events for over 400 French travel agents in Paphos, in cooperation with Leptos Coral Beach Hotel & Resort. Out of the 400 guests, 220 came from Selectour Afat, the biggest travel agency network in France, while some 190 were franchised Fram agents. Guests were treated to a special welcome, dinners and excursions to Akamas. The initiative aimed to promote Paphos to the French market, familiarise French travel professionals with the destination and push the winter programme/sales in which Fram is committed to with more than 500 seats per week to Pafos International Airport from four French cities: Toulouse, Lyon, Nantes and Paris.
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MONTHLY NEWS Sustainability is Vital for Cyprus’ Tourism
Ayia Napa Welcomes First Sculptures
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he Green Key and Blue Flag national committees met under Cyprus Tourism Organisation’s leadership to discuss sustainability issues. The gathering was also attended by the members of Cyprus Hotel Association, Cyprus Agrotourism Company, Association of Cyprus Tourist Enterprises and various other governmental and municipal authorities. Participants discussed the issues of safety at organised beaches, the new criteria for the Green Key accreditation and businesses’ corporate social responsibility. Moreover, the meeting concluded that Cyprus should claim the next Green Key forum which will secure great visibility to the island.
Sculpture in Ayia Napa
Paphos Online Guide Becomes a Favourite kno u o y d Di
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Tombs of the Kings in Paphos
he first three sculptures have been placed at Ayia Napa’s new Sculpture Park at a ceremony officiated by Yiannis Karousos, mayor, Ayia Napa. The artists who donated their works, Omar Toussoun, Ahmed Abdeltawab and Genti Tavanxhiu, received congratulations from the attendees and Karousos awarded them with honorary plaques. He also thanked them for their kind offer and expressed the belief that the sculptures will become a point of reference and admiration.
October 2014 Arrivals Slow Down
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ased on the results of a passenger survey, arrivals of tourists to the island reached 251,453 in October 2014 compared to 273,587 in the same month of 2013, recording a decrease of 8.1 percent. A decline of 3.8 percent was recorded amongst travellers from the UK, which stood at 101,122. The same trend was also observed in Russian arrivals which were down by 29.3 percent. Visitors from Germany plummeted by 12.8 percent and from Sweden 6.8 percent. Nevertheless, neighbouring Greece supported the overall figures by sending 10,417 tourists, an increase of 8.5 percent year-on-year. A similar surge was observed in travellers from Switzerland and Israel.
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aphos’ official tourist guide continued its success as according to statistics provided by Arrival Guides, the developer and provider of the software, between January and November 2014 the guide was read by more than 300,000 visitors to the site. During the specific period, the majority of readers, in descending order, were from the UK, Sweden, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium and Poland. The only fully integrated Paphos e-guide is available in English, German and Swedish, and it includes descriptions of the city’s four municipalities, beaches, places of interest, tourist accommodations and more.
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JANUARY 2015
TOURISM BOARDS MONTHLY NEWS
The UK Still Supports Cyprus
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ollowing their participation at World Travel Market (WTM) in London, Pafos Regional Board of Tourism officials relayed positive messages from the British tourism segment as it appears that major tour operators will offer increased options for Paphos this year. In addition, the city is included in the year-round schedules of various airlines, with opportunities being open for further development. Prospects are improving for March due to the relative recovery of the UK’s economy. Moreover, the German market seems promising as accessibility is improved and the tourist experience is upgraded.
JANUARY 2015
Civil Marriages Increase in Ayia Napa
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ccording to Ayia Napa Municipality, 2014 was a successful year with regards to civil matrimonies, since the segment registered a six percent increase compared to 2013. At the same time revenue from civil weddings in the municipality went up by 17 percent. Yiannis Karousos, mayor, Ayia Napa, commented that this was a result of the council’s excellent management, targeted promotion, as well as participation at specific wedding shows abroad. “An important role in the growth was also played by the establishment of a dedicated department of wedding planners and the creation of new venues for civil weddings, as most couples prefer to hold their wedding ceremony outside the city hall,” Karousos said.
Paphos: Popular Choice for Chinese Investors
Cyprus Takes Part in ICCA Congress
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hinese investors have shown an interest in Paphos and are particularly keen to look at the potential of the town hosting a casino resort, according to Andreas Demetriades, chairman, Paphos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI). Demetriades noted that there was also interest in registering Chinese companies in Paphos and using the island as a location to promote their business within the European Union. Additionally, Chinese investors were interested in the possibility of creating a free trade zone close to Limassol port or Paphos.
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delegation of Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO), led by Kostas Koumis, vice chairman, CTO, represented the country at the 53rd International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Congress, which took place in Antalya, Turkey. The event was attended by over 900 delegates and exhibitors from around the world representing national tourism organisations, convention bureaus, professional conference organisers, publishers and the media, with which the CTO officials had a series of contacts. CTO’s delegation also had the opportunity to learn about the latest developments in the field of congress tourism, such as branding, destination marketing and innovative approaches for targeted promotion of conference tourism, as well as explore the opportunities opening up for Cyprus.
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MONTHLY NEWS TOURISM BOARDS
Did y
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Students Explore Larnaca’s Salt Lakes
is ake alt L RamS a e ac Larn ed in Th h aims d c i u l of h c in ist w ation sar L conser v l divere a to th l biologic taining s a u b s glo e? and sity uman lif h
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arnaka Municipality continued its educational initiative where students are informed about the city’s natural environment and specifically its salt lakes. Primary schools which participated in the project included those of Anglisides, Aglantzia and Pallouriotissa, and the pupils had the chance to learn about the food chain of the wetland, the different types of plants and flowers in the area, as well as possible sources of pollution that threaten the habitat. The decision to upgrade the salt lake’s area and create a national park on the site is expected to offer Larnaca’s residents a unique advantage with regards to the city’s tourism product.
Larnaca salt lake
Paphos Readies for AEGEAN Airlines
Paphos’ Profile Raised
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afos Regional Board of Tourism participated in various presentations and workshops in Germany, alongside hoteliers of the region. The delegation presented Paphos in Düsseldorf, Cologne and Dortmund where more than 120 travel agents and tour operators attended the event. This year, the German market is considered as a top priority for Pafos Regional Board of Tourism and the district in general is deemed vital for helping tourism in Paphos to recover.
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ollowing the announcement of AEGEAN Airlines’ flights to Paphos, local tourism bodies and Pafos Regional Board of Tourism hailed the carrier’s decision and declared their readiness to welcome the new services. As of April, AEGEAN Airlines will start flying from Athens to Paphos four times a week. The new services are expected to create a series of benefits for the island, and the coastal town in specific, as they are going to improve its international stand. The airline currently serves Larnaca from Athens and Thessaloniki. Paphos delegation in Germany
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JANUARY 2015
AIR MONTHLY NEWS Ryanair Joins Forces with Booking.com
Germanwings: Cyprus Has Always Seemed Attractive
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ollowing the launch of weekly flights to Larnaca, Germanwings will review the market’s performance in April and decide whether frequency needs to be increased. This according to Andreas Engel, public relations manager, international, Germanwings, who added that Cyprus has always been on the company’s radar and after the introduction of the flights the island is aimed to become one of its strong tourist destinations, alongside Greece and Italy. With 43,000 Germans having visited Cyprus in the first seven months of 2014, the carrier aims to boost tourism traffic from Germany to Cyprus.
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yanair has penned a deal with Booking.com, enabling its customers to book a vast variety of accommodation options directly through its website. Kenny Jacobs, chief marketing officer, Ryanair, stated, “Our partnership with Booking.com guarantees the lowest hotel prices, allowing Ryanair customers to book their flights and accommodation together, ensuring they save even more, every time they fly with us.” This is the latest improvement under the budget carrier’s Always Getting Better programme, following a new website and app with mobile boarding passes, the My Ryanair customer registration system and its novel Family Extra and Business Plus services.
Germanwings Connects Larnaca with Cologne
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ermes Airports recently welcomed new weekly flights to Cyprus by Germanwings from the German city of Cologne. Commenting on the launch, Wes Porter, CEO, Hermes Airports, stressed that this development creates the foundations and all the necessary conditions in order to follow a methodical and effective pathway towards achieving a significant recovery from the German market. Furthermore, Heinz Joachim Schöttes, senior vice president, corporate communications, Germanwings, stated, “We are convinced that we will contribute to the tourism development of the Mediterranean island, a favourite destination for Germans and all Europeans.”
JANUARY 2015
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MONTHLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
Upgrades at Hilton Park Nicosia
Londa Joins Small Luxury Hotels of the World
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Londa Beach Hotel
ilton Park Nicosia continued its renovation programme and went ahead with the total redesign of its lobby, as well as the restructuring and upgrading of its health and beauty centre Sana Hiltonia. The centrepiece of the hotel’s lobby is a fireplace which welcomes guests to a completely new and modern environment. Corner sofas in earthy colours, parquet surfaces, Utrecht armchairs, as well as modern furniture and stools complement the new design. Besides, Sana Hiltonia now features latest technology machines and brand new and refurbished rooms. The club is to see the addition of a climatic room in which Dead Sea conditions are recreated.
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onda Beach Hotel, Limassol has joined the elite ranks of Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), a selection of 520 hotels in 80 countries, featuring a unique character, personal service and memorable experiences. The hotel has been accepted as a member of the esteemed brand following a recent inspection visit by the SLH development team. Praising the property’s location and facilities, Paul Kerr, CEO, SLH, said, “Londa epitomises what an SLH hotel is. With a clear and considered offer it is easily the most well-appointed hotel in its location. It is a luxury, modern hotel which will attract discerning guests, both for business and leisure.”
Sana Hiltonia at Hilton Park Nicosia
Louis Ayios Elias Reopening in 2016
Lordos Hotels Remains Profitable
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ouis Hotels announced that its holiday village Louis Ayios Elias in Protaras will undergo full-scale renovations throughout the winter 2014/15 and 2015/16 periods, and is therefore set for a reopening in 2016. The property, which consists of 154 spacious units, will feature fully renovated apartments and public areas, an upgraded pool with waterslides, as well as a new 200m2 central pool with 10 hydro-massage sections.
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Lordos Beach Hotel
ordos Hotels published its interim management statement of the first nine months of 2014, which showed that turnover rose by EUR695,000 and reached EUR8.65 million, a fact attributed to the increased reservations at Golden Bay Hotel. Additionally, administrative expenses rose to EUR1.62 million mostly due to bad debts which derived from bankrupt Russian tourist agencies. Overall, the results of the group for the period under review were affected positively mainly due to the rising number of reservations in overnight stays. It is expected that Lordos Hotels will continue to be profitable this year as well.
JANUARY 2015
ACCOMMODATION MONTHLY NEWS
Atlantica Hotels & Resorts Receives 20 Awards now. . k u o y Did ls Hote
as ntica Atla esor ts w 980 R 1 & d in ning lishe e estab h the op tel in wit first ho s ? of it imassol L
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tlantica Hotels & Resorts has been recognised with 20 major awards at the annual award ceremony of TUI Travel at the World Travel Market 2014, in London. The awards were received for the groups hotels and resorts in Cyprus, Greece and Egypt. According to the company’s relevant statement, each year Atlantica Hotels & Resorts continues to grow within the tourism industry and strives to offer its customers high-quality facilities and services.
JANUARY 2015
Anassa to Collaborate with Local Farmers
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yprus Hotel Association (CHA)’s local committee welcomed Anassa’s management decision to support local farmers and producers in Polis Chrysochous. The hotel’s team recently met with authorities and producers to explore ways of collaboration and how they can provide the property with local produce, starting March. Themis Philippides, chairman, Paphos district committee, CHA, noted that the association’s goal is for such initiatives to be introduced in other hotels in the area in order to benefit both farmers and hoteliers in Paphos, while at the same time tourists will be able to enjoy Cypriot products.
Aphrodite Hills Resort Hotel Wins Golf Accolades
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utting the island in international spotlight, Aphrodite Hills Resort Hotel scooped the 2014 Cyprus Best Golf Hotel award, while the property’s Aphrodite Hills Golf Club was recognised with the Cyprus Best Golf Course accolade at the first-ever World Golf Awards ceremony which took place in November 2014 in Algarve, Portugal. Winners across various categories were selected through a worldwide voting process which had begun in May 2014. Votes spanned professionals working within the golf tourism industry; senior executives, travel buyers, tour operators, agents and media professionals, as well as consumers.
Golfing at Aphrodite Hills Resort Hotel
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Utilising Biodiversity in Tourism
Cyprus to Improve Air Safety Standards
Within the framework of the campaign for the European project BIOforLIFE, the coordinators of the initiative in Cyprus organised a seminar themed Utilising Cyprus’ Biodiversity in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry.
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peakers included representatives of Cyprus Tourism Organisation, Cyprus Hotel Association, Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative and the Terra Cypria foundation. BIOforLIFE aims to make the concept of biodiversity better understood among the public as well as among influential policy-makers or actors, whose decisions and actions have an impact on biodiversity protection.
Greece’s Tourism Sector Soars
easyJet Founder Lends a Helping Hand
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Taleb Rifai
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eeting with Antonis Samaras, prime minister, Greece, during his official visit to the Mediterranean country, Taleb Rifai, secretary general, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), commended the excellent results of Greece´s tourism sector, indicating that 2014 was set to have been an exceptional year. The number of tourists visiting Greece in the first half of 2014 grew by 17 percent, driven by strong demand from key European outbound markets such as Germany and the UK. According to UNWTO, the strength of the sector in the country is the result of a robust tourism policy, fundamental competitiveness measures and immense efforts from the private sector.
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letter on inter-functional airspace block (FAB) cooperation was signed by the state level bodies of FAB Central Europe, which includes Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Hungary, Slovakia and Slovenia, and BLUE MED FAB, which comprises Cyprus, Greece, Italy and Malta. This was aimed at enhancing co-ordination on the policies adopted for improving air navigation services and air traffic management in Europe. The arrangement concluded between FAB Central Europe and BLUE MED FAB aims to facilitate air traffic management developments at a regional level as envisaged in the Single European Sky programme advocated by the European Commission.
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Stelios Haji-Ioannou handing out snacks to nursery children
small group of teachers and young children from a public nursery school in Kaimakli, Nicosia sent a fun, creative and warming thank you video to Stelios HajiIoannou, founder, easyJet and his philanthropic foundation. The 30-second video which was created for the foundation shows the children in their classroom gratefully thanking Haji-Ioannou for a donation he made to the school and for snacks handed out to the children. “I had to help our people, regardless of nationality or background and donating food is the best way to do this,” said Haji-Ioannou.
JANUARY 2015
RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: In a bid to facilitate the future growth of Dubai’s aviation industry, Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central (DWC) is awaiting an expansion in order to accommodate 200 million passengers a year. How is that in line with Emirates’ growth and how is it going to boost the airline’s targets? ASMA AL RAHMA: We welcome the expansion plans for DWC and will continue to work closely with Dubai Airports and all stakeholders on our current
Q & A with Asma Al Rahma COUNTRY MANAGER, CYPRUS, EMIRATES
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EMIRATES PLAYS A KEY ROLE IN DEVELOPING LINKS BETWEEN ITS 38 EUROPEAN DESTINATIONS
ASMA AL RAHMA: Emirates plays a key role in further developing natural business links between its 38 European destinations and key markets in the Middle East, Far East, Australasia, West Asia and Indian Ocean. The financial year ending March 31, 2014, marked an unprecedented level of investment across the Emirates Group, continued expansion of its global footprint across the six continents and the achievement of new capacity milestones. Revenue generated from across Europe increased by 16 percent to AED23.4 billion (EUR5.12 billion), reflecting new destinations as well as increased frequency and capacity to these regions.
ASMA AL RAHMA: There is no secret to the airline’s success. Until March 31, 2014, the airline successfully managed to increase competitive pressure across all markets to record a profit of AED3.3 billion (EUR723 million), an increase of 43 percent over 2013’s results, and a healthy profit margin of 3.9 percent. We know that to be a sustainable and profitable business, we have to keep adding value to our stakeholders, our customers, partners and employees. To do this, we need efficient new aircraft, quality products and services, and cutting-edge facilities. Every dirham invested has been carefully considered against short- and long-term goals – be it enhancing our capabilities, improving our product, or expanding our business footprint. TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: During the 2013/14 fiscal year Emirates received 24 new aircraft, including 16 A380s, six Boeing 777-300ERs and two Boeing 777Fs, bringing its total fleet count to 217 and remains the world’s largest operator of the Boeing 777 and A380. What are we to expect this year in terms of aircraft and network expansion?
and future operational requirements. The decision on whether, and when, to move Emirates from Dubai International to DWC is one for the government to make. We have no plans to run a split hub operation. TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: In the past months, Emirates has been significantly growing its European network. How important a market is Europe for the airline?
year-on-year, Emirates marked another profitable year. How does the airline stay ahead of competition? What is the secret to its successful path of nearly 30 years?
WITH A 30-YEAR-LONG HISTORY, EMIRATES IS STILL GROWING STRONG AND REGISTERS UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH YEAR AFTER YEAR. ASMA AL RAHMA, COUNTRY MANAGER, CYPRUS, EMIRATES, EXPLAINS WHY THIS IS THE CASE AND ELABORATES ON THE CARRIER’S FUTURE PLANS.
ASMA AL RAHMA: In 2014, Emirates announced eight new destinations, namely Kiev, Taipei, Boston, Abuja, Chicago, Oslo, Brussels and Budapest, in this order. New Airbus A380 destinations have been introduced or planned […]. For this calendar year, Emirates expects to receive 27 aircraft, which 13 will be A380s, 12 will be Boeing 777300ERs and two B777-F aircraft.
TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: Having carried a record 44.5 million passengers until March 31, 2014, up 13 percent JANUARY 2015
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MONTHLY NEWS INTERNATIONAL / IN FOCUS London Marriott Hotel Kensington Redefines Meetings Space
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ollowing a grand renovation, London Marriott Hotel Kensington has relaunched its meeting and events spaces with versatile facilities that suit the needs of today’s travellers. Featuring a modern design and the latest wireless technology, the hotel’s nine interchangeable rooms can host a total of 235 delegates over two floors. The renovations bring secure Internet connectivity, wireless enabled projectors, alongside other cutting-edge features. The space is designed to inspire social and collaborative meetings where delegates can enjoy interactive features such as the ability to write on walls and breakout tables to allow creative thinking.
TripAdvisor Enables Instant Bookings
London Marriott Hotel Kensington, meeting space
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ripAdvisor has announced that 31 hotel connectivity providers have already achieved premium certification by offering TripConnect instant booking to independent hotels and bed and breakfast lodges. Initial commitment to TripConnect has been strong, with premium partners extending their existing TripConnect certification to allow independent hotels to participate in the instant booking on the site. This new development builds on the TripAdvisor-wide initiative to introduce instant booking in an effort to make it easier for travellers who want to make a hotel reservation without leaving the TripAdvisor site.
Who are you? I am Eirini Zinouli, golf sales and marketing manager at Eléa Golf Club situated at the heart of Eléa Estate. The course incorporates numerous natural features and boasts stunning views of the Mediterranean. The 18-hole course is supported by The Eléa Golf Academy alongside the clubhouse. When did you join the industry and why? I joined the golf industry four and a half years ago when I first started working at Eléa Golf Club. The world of golf and tourism attracted me since the beginning, while dealing with golfers from all over the world and promoting Eléa and Cyprus as a golf destination, makes me feel creative and proud.
NAME:
Eirini Zinouli
POSITION:
Golf sales and marketing manager
COMPANY:
Eléa Golf Club
LOCATION:
Geroskipou, Paphos
WEBSITE:
www.eleaestate.com
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What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? Discovering the real meaning of hospitality behind a pleased visitor’s smile when he says, “Goodbye, thank you for everything, I had a fantastic golf experience,” and you feel that he would love to come back again soon. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? I would like to visit a destination with rich history and beautiful nature, like Greece. Why is Cyprus an ideal destination to visit? With the warmest of winters, a choice of four local championship golf courses, good tourism infrastructure and a unique history and culture, the island has become a destination of choice for golfers across the globe […]. JANUARY 2015
INTERNATIONAL / IN FOCUS MONTHLY NEWS Belgrade Welcomes Allure Caramel Hotel by Karisma
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Allure Caramel Hotel by Carisma
arisma Hotels & Resorts has debuted Allure Caramel Hotel by Karisma, in Belgrade, its first European property and the brand’s third city hotel. Ruben Becerra, vice president, corporate affairs and business development, Karisma Hotels & Resorts, stated, “We are confident that the hotel’s location in Belgrade […] and unique intrinsic appeals, coupled with Karisma’s […] commitment to delivering top services and amenities, will make for a successful expansion of Allure Hotels into Europe.” Formerly known as the historic Hotel Admiral Club Belgrade, the property offers luxurious facilities and premium food and beverage outlets, and is centrally located, near the city’s bohemian quarter.
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Aeroflot Transports Ski Equipment for Free
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eroflot now provides a free extra piece of baggage for passengers carrying one set of ski equipment under 23kg. The set includes one baggage piece holding a pair of skis or a snowboard, plus a pair of ski poles, and the second baggage piece with ski or snowboard boots. The offer is valid until March 31, and excludes flights SU3000 – 4999 operated by Aeroflot’s partner companies. The Russian carrier has launched the initiative in line with its commitment to promote healthy lifestyle and support travellers heading for ski holidays during autumn and winter.
Please tell us a bit about your hotel. Paradisos Hills Hotel is a small, stone-built familyrun hotel situated on the outskirts of the beautiful village of Lysos, 50 minutes from Paphos’ airport. The hotel consists of 15 comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms, TVs, telephone, hairdryer, tea and coffee-making facilities. All rooms have spectacular mountain and/or sea views, are temperature-controlled and have free Internet access. What is the story behind Paradisos Hills Hotel? The hotel was the dream of my father, Andreas, who sadly passed away. He spent many nights sleeping beneath the stars under the tree which is located below where the hotel is now. Upon his passing, his seven children made sure his dream became a reality and will go out of their way to show everyone what true Cypriot hospitality is all about. It is run mainly by myself and my sister Niki but all family members help when needed.
NAME:
Soulla Charalambous
POSITION:
Owner/manager
COMPANY:
Paradisos Hills Hotel
LOCATION:
Lysos, Paphos
WEBSITE:
JANUARY 2015
www.paradisoshills.com
What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? We meet very nice, interesting people and we love to ensure that everyone leaves us happy and relaxed, having had a wonderful time with us. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? We would love to go to Rome or Paris. Why is Cyprus an ideal destination to visit? Cyprus is the island of love and Paradisos Hills Hotel is ideal for weddings, baptisms, anniversaries and private conferences.
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NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS
Ayia Napa Hosts Triathlon
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issi Beach hosted the Ayia Napa Sprint Triathlon which was organised by the Cyprus Triathlon Federation and Nireas Triathlon Club. The 86 athletes who took part in the event covered the following distances: 750m swimming, 20km biking and 5km running, and for two hours the exciting races kept the viewers in suspense.
Ayia Napa Sprint Triathlon winners
Successful Training Camp
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rganised by the Cyprus Sailing Federation, Limassol Sailing Center’s training camp, which took place on October 2528, 2014, was completed with total success. The nine young sailors showed great interest throughout the four-day intensive programme,
which covered both theoretical and practical aspects. They also had the opportunity to gain useful information for them to improve their technique, their sporting level in general and to acquire experiences that will assist them in their future careers.
Cyprus Chamber of Fine Arts Celebrates 50th Anniversary
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ommemorating 50 years of operations, the Cyprus Chamber of Fine Arts hosted a pancyprian exhibition at the Larnaca Municipal Art Gallery. The event was officiated by Andreas Louroutziatis, mayor, Larnaca. The Cyprus Chamber of Fine Arts was founded in 1964 and has since been operating as a valuable non-governmental organisation gathering professional artists. The chamber also represents Cyprus in the International Association of Art.
NICOSIA POP UP FESTIVAL Nicosia Until January 15 facebook.com/popupfestival2014 An event featuring a range of educational, cultural, recreational activities.
INTERNATIONAL OPEN RUN HALF MARATHON Pervolia January 25 www.periclis.com.cy Held in memory of Adonis Theocharides and Ioannis Farazis, athletes of the Gymnastic Association Pancypria.
CYPRUS SUNSHINE CUP Lefkara, Lythrodontas, Macheras and Amathus February 26 – March 8 www.cyclingcy.com One of the most famous mountainbike series in the Union Cycliste Internationale calendar.
AGIA NAPA CULTURAL WINTER Ayia Napa Until March 26 www.ayianapa.org.cy Cultural events in Ayia Napa area including music, folklore dances and classical music piano recitals.
Wine Takes Centre Stage
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yprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) established November 2014 as the month of wine and held various events to celebrate the popular beverage. These included trips to wineries along the seven wine routes opened by CTO, a wine fair and a children’s day, where kids learned about the vineyard, its produce and wine.
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The month of wine also included a photographic exhibition and seminars for tourism professionals in hotels, food and beverage outlets, and entertainment venues, featuring information on Cypriot wine; its history, tradition and culture that surround it, as well as ways of serving wine.
VOLKSWAGEN CYPRUS CYCLING TOUR Paphos March 17 – 29 www.cyclingcy.com A three-day road cycling-for-all event that will take place for the fourth consecutive year.
JANUARY 2015