Travel Trade Cyprus, August 2016, Issue 42

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AUGUST 2016 - ISSUE 42

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09 MINI REPORT

HERMES AIRPORTS: 10 YEARS IN CYPRUS

PAPHOS REDEFINES ITS IMAGE

12 COBALT TAKES OFF

10 Airports

13 Accommodation

15 Views & Insights


MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS

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RECORD-BREAKING JUNE ARRIVALS

MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Rita Kasziba JOURNALISTS Memnon Arestis Ellen Petty CONTRIBUTORS Ana Mladenovic Dominique Christou SALES & SALES SUPPORT Maria Demetriadou Magda Christou Raluca Apostolescu

Ayia Napa

DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi 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@traveltradeweekly.travel 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

The Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) regarded this year’s June as possibly the most successful June in terms of arrivals in the history of the island’s tourism industry, and the second best month following July 2015.

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he Statistical Service announced a 22.6 percent increase in tourist volumes compared to the same period in 2015, with a total of 413,114 visitors. Striking surges have been recorded from the UK, up 21.1 percent, Russia, up 41.6 percent, the neighbouring countries of Israel and Greece, up 59 percent and 29.7 percent, respectively, as well as Ukraine which achieved a 40.5 percent rise. Total arrivals for the first half of the year stood at 1.25 million, a 21.2 percent increase over first semester of 2015.

WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES Representative for North, South & Central America, and the Caribbean: Neil Strickland GlobeTM Tel: +19542969515 neil@globetm.com

MORE RETURN TRIPS BY CYPRUS RESIDENTS

Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735 kuka@rmamedia.com

Nicosia

Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456 david@simpson-media.com

EXCHANGE RATES

as of

29.07.2016

COUNTRY

CURRENCY

1EUR=

US (USD)

Dollar

1.11

UK (GBP)

Pound

0.84

Switzerland (CHF) Franc

1.09

Japan (JPY)

114.72

2

Yen

The Statistical Service of the country has documented a slight year-onyear increase in the volume of arrivals of island-based travellers in June.

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n accordance to the findings of the Passengers Survey, there was a 5.8 percent rise, with 100,764 locals returning home from abroad, in comparison to 95,920 during June 2015. A minor increase of 1.1 percent was recorded in outbound journeys to Greece, with 39,296 Cyprus-based travellers visiting the country, while an impressive 20.5 percent boom was registered in return trips from the UK with the figure climbing to 21,530.

AUGUST 2016


MONTHLY NEWS

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President Recognises Sector’s Importance

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ver the 80 years of the entity’s operation, Cyprus Hotel Association (CHA)’s members have played a largely important role in supporting the tourism industry by taking risks and investing in the sector, thus, contributing to the island’s positioning as a high-quality destination for travellers. This was voiced by Nicos Anastasiades, president, Cyprus, who was speaking at CHA’s annual general meeting. “It is not accidental that this is expected to be a record year for Cyprus’ tourism sector. […] The current indications are particularly encouraging. For the period between January and April, visitor arrivals have improved 21.9 percent compared to 2015, all major markets are registering increases, and revenues [for the first three months of the year] have surged 18.7 percent,” Anastasiades elaborated.

CTO Informs Tourists of Prices

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n line with its mission to keep consumers and travellers updated, Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) compiled a list with actual prices for products offered at a total of 157 different food and beverage outlets across the island. The businesses included in the catalogue, as well as the prices mentioned, are approved by the organisation. Additionally, through a dedicated Vacation Guide CTO’s website enables tourists and locals to be informed of their rights and obligations while holidaying.

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MONTHLY NEWS

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CTO Addresses BREXIT

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London

yprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) recently held a meeting in order to discuss the latest developments regarding the UK’s BREXIT referendum, and the new geopolitical happenings in the area. The tourism body, which is scheduled to visit the UK to conduct meetings with strategic partners in the market, along with the participants of the event, recognised that tourist arrivals to Cyprus are not expected to be affected this year, however, the purchasing power of British visitors has been already evident due to the fall of Sterling.

Promoting the Agro-side of Cyprus

Lefkara

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n an attempt to meet modern tourist demands and enrich the local leisure experience, Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) and Cyprus Agrotourism Company (CAC) have joined forces to promote the island’s agrotourism sector, with support from the European Union and rural inhabitants. According to a CTO announcement, today’s travellers seek authentic experiences, based on the knowledge and customs connected to staying in a traditional accommodation establishment. CTO uses the term “lifeseeing”, to describe the shift from the tourist’s role as a spectator, to a more active and participatory visitor. Boasting over 100 guesthouses in more than 50 villages, Aphrodite’s island can provide visitors with agro-living experiences all year round.

AUGUST 2016


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MONTHLY NEWS

Longer Lifeguard Hours In Ayia Napa

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s of July 01, lifeguard duty in Ayia Napa was extended by one hour, effective until Au-

gust 31. Lifeguards in the area will be on duty from the morning until late af-

ternoon in order to guarantee ideal safety measures during peak hours. The aim of the extended hours is to ensure that all beach visitors are under a watchful eye to avoid any unfortunate events during the busy season.

ACTA to Host Technology Summit

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he Association of Cyprus Travel Agents (ACTA) is gearing up to stage the international technology conference of tourism Digi.travel Tourism, on October 19. The event will present the latest developments in the field to managers of various tourism businesses, and will also analyse the issues of direct interest for travel agencies, hoteliers and other industry professionals. Dinos Kakkouras, president, ACTA, noted that it is to the benefit of all professionals to utilise modern ways in order to expand their horizons.

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MONTHLY NEWS

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CTO Promotes Conference Tourism

Cyprus

CTO stand at Meetings Show

CTO Fosters Israeli and French Ties

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yprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) hosted three meetings with representatives of the Israeli and French embassies, as well as Troodos Tourism Board. Annita Demetriades, deputy director general, CTO and Yael Ravia-Zadok, ambassador to Cyprus, Israel, discussed ways of expanding relations between Cyprus and Israel by developing packages focussed on the highlights of the countries along with niche segments, such as agro and nautical tourism. During the meeting with Theo Siproudhis, attaché, economics and finance, embassy of France, Cyprus, Demetriades addressed the possibilities offered by the island’s relaxing nature, and suggested the further improvement of air links between the European state and the island.

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n an effort to promote Cyprus as a conference tourism destination, Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) took part in the recently-held Meetings Show, in London. The three-day event, which attracted some 3,000 visitors, allowed the tourism body to present the island’s competitive advantage within the sector, and highlight the continuous efforts to upgrade infrastructure and related services with a particular emphasis on the professionalism of those employed within the industry.

Paphos

Paphos Lures Finland

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he Pafos Regional Board of Tourism, in collaboration with hoteliers and Finnish company of Greek and Cypriot products Filos-Gavrielides Foods, carried out a range of promotional activities in four major supermarkets across Helsinki in an effort to attract potential visitors. The initiative provided information on the destination to the targeted audience who had the opportunity to taste various products and learn about Paphos as a tourist destination.

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MONTHLY NEWS

CTO Marks Global Wellness Day

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yprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) supported the Global Wellness Day (GWD) as the main sponsor of the activities co-organised with the Cyprus SPA Association. GWD is celebrated every year on the second Saturday of June, in 83 countries. With the slogan I say Yes (to wellness), GWD aims to show that one day is enough to change a person’s way of thinking and living. During the celebrations of GWD, which took place in Cyprus for the first time in 2016, CTO chose to enrich the occassion by organising the Cyprus in Your Heart Global Wellness Golf Day, combining golf and wellness, at Aphrodite Hills Resorts.

New Map of Cyprus Out

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elas has launched the new series of its Cyprus map collection in both English and Russian. Already in their 18th edition, Selas Road Maps of Cyprus are some of the most popular charts circulating locally and in European markets. The revised documents include all the changes in road networks and hundreds of new points of interest all over the island, such as museums, archaeological sites, public services, accommodation establishments, picnic areas, beaches and a plethora of tourist information.

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MONTHLY NEWS

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afos Regional Board of Tourism is implementing various actions to market the region as a highlydesired tourist destination. A fresh and modern approach is undertaken in regards to upgrading printed materials that promote Paphos as the European Capital of Culture 2017. In parallel, a user-friendly 3D electronic map is on its way, providing island dwellers with invaluable information in a visually and design-wise attractive way. Further initiatives include redesigning the official website, the distribution of a paper promotional bag and the preparation of a short film showcasing the highlights of the region. The overall aim is to reposition Aphrodite’s city of birth as a year-round tourist hotspot.

Aphrodite’s Rock

Paphos Redefines Its Image

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icosia Municipality aims to improve its pedestrian areas within the city’s historic centre and has already prepared a complete plan with a series of proposals and measures. The main goals of the initiative include the alleviation of traffic jams by keeping a large volume of vehicles outside the city walls, the encouragement of parking outside the centre, the purchase and distribution of 13 minibuses, the use of other means of transport, as well as the improvement of the capital’s image through more frequent cleanings.

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Nicosia

Nicosia Improves Its Centre

AUGUST 2016


MINI REPORT

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Hermes Airports: 10 Years in Cyprus Hermes Airports celebrated a decade of successful operation of Larnaka International Airport and Pafos International Airport.

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ver the 10-year period, the company has played a catalyst role in enhancing the operational capability of the island’s airfields, significantly contributing to the improvement of the Cypriot tourism product and the country’s attractiveness in general. As a result, Cyprus is now connected with dozens of destinations via more than 70 airlines, positioning the two airports as vital elements to the national economy.

HERE IS TO THE NEXT 10 The anniversary event in Larnaca, which also included a concert by Cyprus Youth Symphony Orchestra, saw a number of airlines picking up awards in recognition of their notable contribution to passenger traffic growth at the two airfields. As Nicos Shacolas, founder, Hermes Airports, reminded, over the past decade, the company has faced various challenges, yet, the management and employees’ determination to attain objectives and carry out missions, have helped overcome all obstacles. The celebrations concluded with a gala dinner, which was attended by distinguished guests from the political and business scene of Cyprus, as well as representatives of the various organisations and companies operating in the airports of the island.

LARNACA TERMINAL RENAMED To commemorate the occasion, Nikos Anastasiades, president, Cyprus, unveiled a plaque bearing the new name of the Larnaca terminal: Larnaka International Airport – Glafcos Clerides. Praising the greatness of the historic politician and former president of the state, Anastasiades also congratulated Hermes Airports on the company’s achievements over the past years at the island’s two main entry points. Thanking the government and the shareholder companies of the consortium for the continued support, Panagiotis Hadjipantelis, chairman, Hermes Airports, deemed Larnaca and Paphos airports the evidence of a successful cooperation between the public and the private sector; an ambitious project that has over the years proven to be crucial for the country.

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MONTHLY NEWS AIRPORTS Hermes Assists Travellers with Disabilities

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CTO Expresses Worries over Airport Strike

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ermes Airports was highly commended as the best European airport in providing services for people with disabilities at Larnaka International Airport – Glafcos Clerides. The distinction was highlighted during Airports Council International’s 12th European general assembly in Athens. The airfield was recognised with the Accessible Airport Award and was also honoured for its positive experience offered to travellers with special needs. Eleni Kaloyirou, CEO, Hermes Airports, reaffirmed the company’s strong commitment to continuous improvements.

he industrial action taken by workers of ground handling companies at Pafos International Airport has left a negative impression on foreign visitors to the island, according to Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO). Respecting the right of every employee to express their demand, the tourism body urged all concerned parties to exhaust all conciliation efforts and avoid posing problems to the country’s all-important tourism industry.

Pafos International Airport

Larnaka International Airport

Service Improvements at Cypriot Airports

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hree fundamental tourism bodies in Cyprus have reached an agreement regarding the improvement of the conditions that tourists experience at the international airports. The Association of Cyprus Tourist Enterprises, the Association of Cyprus Travel Agents and the Cyprus Hotel Association have praised the mediation proposal forwarded by Zeta Emilianidou, labour, welfare and social insurance minister, Cyprus, in adopting a responsible attitude which will contribute to the further enhancement of the island’s image. Essentially, travellers that reach the hubs for the first time should be offered the best-possible first impression upon their arrival.

AUGUST 2016


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MONTHLY NEWS AIRPORTS

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assengers now have the opportunity to virtually tour Athens International Airport (AIA) on Google Street View and explore the airfield’s indoor maps. Through Street View’s 360-degree imagery of high resolution and aesthetic images, travellers can navigate through various facilities, while the indoor maps allow them to locate places of interest, such as check-in counters, departure gates, shops or other outlets. “One significant particularity the airport has, is the very limited time available for passengers in relation to the variety of offered services and products,” commented George Demetriades, director, IT and technology business unit, AIA, adding that this special element dictates the communication and promotion of services and products in new ways.

Athens International Airport

Athens Hub on Street View Now

BlueAir Receives Award

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ermes Airports awarded Blue Air for the highest percentage growth in 2015. Blue Air has been present in Cyprus since 2008, and in January 2015, the airline also decided to establish a base in Larnaca. Tudor Constantinescu, chief commercial officer, Blue Air, said, “We would like to express our gratitude to our partners at Hermes Airports and Orthodoxou Group. Moreover, we would like to thank all our Cypriot passengers, who have made our operations at Larnaca a real success.’

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MONTHLY NEWS AIR

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COBALT Takes Off

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OBALT, the new airline of Cyprus, held its London launch event at London Hilton Paddington, on June 21, a week after the airline was awarded its operating license by the Air Transport Licensing Authority of Cyprus. According to Gregory Diacou, chairman, COLBAT, the carrier will fulfill its pledge to build a strong regional hub in Larnaca, with scheduled flights to a wide range of cities in Greece, the UK, Ireland and continental Europe. "For too long, Cyprus has been without a national carrier. A strong home airline is a vital part of our national infrastructure,“ commented Diacou.

Constanta

Blue Air Links Larnaca to Constanta

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ontinuing its expansion on the island, Blue Air has launched a new route from Larnaca to Constanta, via Athens. Operating twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays with a stop in the Greek capital, the new itinerary complements the airline’s existing four-weekly service to Bucharest. Since debuting in Cyprus in 2008, the Romanian carrier has introduced flights from Larnaca to Athens, Thessaloniki and Bucharest, while London joined the network in April.

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MONTHLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION

St Raphael Resort Enhances Guest Experience

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aking vacations even more fulfilling and enjoyable, Limassol’s St Raphael Resort has introduced a range of new offerings for this season. In addition to the property’s already ultra all-inclusive package, guests can also enjoy dinner during the Tuesday and Thursday outdoor theme nights, adding some extra fun to the evening hours. With barbecue being the first option, followed by a night dedicated to Italian cuisine, both programmes are enhanced with live cooking and a la minute menus. In addition to this, throughout this month, the resort is hosting a beach party with a DJ setting the mood once a week, while youngsters can enjoy bouncy castles.

Aldiana Boosts Culinary Credentials

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Aldiana Cyprus

ight world-famous Michelin-starred chefs converged in Aldiana Cyprus to present their skills and share their creations with the hotel’s customers. Harald Wohlfahrt, Kolja Kleeberg, Jörg Sackmann, Tanja Grandits, Oliver Hoffinger and Renato Manzi were invited to the property to join this year’s Gourmet Festival, where they gave guests the chance to improve their cooking skills at the Better Burger session and also helped them combine meals with the best wine option. The event culminated in an evening with live cooking stations and a gala dinner labelled Dining under Stars.

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MONTHLY NEWS MARITIME

Posidonia

Cyprus Participated in Posidonia

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yprus once again took part in the biennial international shipping exhibition Posidonia, in Greece, with a national stand that brought together representatives from across the country. With the Merchant Shipping Department of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works as the coordinator, attendees at the event included Cyprus Ports Authority, Cyprus Shipping Chamber and Cyprus Tourism Organisation. All in all, Posidonia saw over 22,000 shipping industry professionals who met, networked and did business with more than 1,800 exhibitors from 90 countries, at Athens Metropolitan Expo.

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Shipping Grows Strong in Cyprus

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he fifth edition of Mare Forum Conference was organised in Cyprus in June, creating the right environment for brainstorming and sharing knowledge and expertise among participants. Subjects discussed included the country’s position in the world as well as regional shipping geopolitics, global trade patterns and the opportunities and challenges the island faces as a global shipping centre. Speaking at the event, Marios Demetriades, transport, communications and works minister, Cyprus, said, “As part of our efforts to enhance Cyprus’ competitiveness, we have procured a study for the shipping industry in cooperation with the private sector. The study proposes measures that would strengthen the Cyprus merchant fleet and shipping cluster.”

CSM Receives Visitors from the Adopt a Ship Campaign

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olumbia Shipmanagement Cyprus (CSM) welcomed teachers from the Adopt a Ship 2015 - 2016 campaign to the company’s offices. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the year-long educational programme, run by Cyprus Shipping Chamber in co-operation with Cyprus Marine Environment Protection Association (CYMEPA), aims to establish a link between ships and schools by partnering local tutoring establishments with shipping companies. The day got underway with welcomes from Michael Ierides, secretary general, CYMEPA, Andreas Hadjipetrou, managing director, CSM, and Phivos Vakis, chief financial officer, CSM.

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AUGUST 2016


VIEWS & INSIGHTS

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ANGELOS LOIZOU CHAIRMAN, CYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATION

SPEAKING AT CYPRUS HOTEL ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING WHICH MARKED THE ENTITY’S 80TH ANNIVERSARY, ANGELOS LOIZOU, CHAIRMAN, CYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATION (CTO), ANALYSED THE TIES BETWEEN THE TWO AUTHORITIES WHICH LED TO A SUCCESSFUL COLLABORATION.

efits for the country. After the financial crisis of 2013, our common effort for recovery was painful but persistent. In 2014, with coordinated actions and joint promotional activities, we managed to win back the island’s credibility and our foreign partners. We achieved to deter the 13-year-long fall in tourist arrivals and reverse the performance, resulting in a year-on-year boost of 1.5 percent with 2.44 million visitors. In 2015, this trend continued with 2.66 million arrivals and a year-on-year increase of 8.9 percent which is pointing to a successful path this year too. In the first quarter of the year, we had a spectacular growth of 21.9 percent, compared to 2015. All of our partners have contributed to this collective and universal effort, always with a steadfast commitment

to the common goal of recovery. We expect to strengthen CTO’s and Cyprus Hotel Association’s historical ties and continue along the same path for even greater achievements that would lead to even more potential for progress at all levels, including economic stability, bigger investments and [new] opportunities for all Cypriots. This year is forecasted to be the most successful tourist season in the country’s history with record arrivals and receipts, in a year when European tourist [arrivals] are estimated to be reduced by approximately 25 percent. CTO is not complacent; we will reconfigure our policies and our role within the new tourism strategy to be more effective in our work. We are convinced that we are on the right path and that we will have even greater growth.

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n its 46 years of operation, CTO has had a long-established cooperation with Cyprus Hotel Association with which it is connected by common objectives and common pathways. The two authorities have worked methodically together when after August 1974 Cyprus’ tourism sector lost more than 70 percent of its bed capacity and most of its touristic areas. Moreover, in 2014, we have worked together to lay the foundations for the industry’s and the economy’s recovery and we have taken decisions, following which we are now able to speak about tourism achievements with multiple benAUGUST 2016

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MONTHLY NEWS ATTRACTIONS Marina Roof Bar Relaunched

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Aphrodite Hills Takes Home Another Honour

A Aphrodite Hills Golf Course

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arina Roof Bar is a popular spot this summer. The latest addition to Limassol Marina’s nightlife scene promises to stand out by offering various cocktails and a diverse menu. Located on top of TGI Fridays, Marina Roof Bar provides a selection of drinks and late night tunes by DJ Aristos Vattis along with views of the waterfront destination.

phrodite Hills Golf Course has been recognised for its services by TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence. Designed by acclaimed architect Cabell Robinson, the golf course boasts stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea in an exquisite setting among natural vegetation. With its exotic and challenging nature, coupled with high levels of services, the facility has earned five-star reviews from visitors from all over the world. “We thank all our guests who added their great reviews and photos after their experience at Aphrodite Hills Golf Course,” said Chryso Iasonos, golf marketing executive, Aphrodite Hills Golf Resort.

Eléa Golf Club

Eléa Golf Club Honoured by Visitors

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léa Golf Club has been awarded by TripAdvisor with the Certificate of Excellence for the fifth consecutive year. As Heather Leisman, vice president, industry marketing, TripAdvisor, explained, the honour is given to hospitality businesses that have constantly received strong praise and ratings from travellers. “This recognition helps travellers identify and book properties that regularly deliver great service,” added Leisman. “TripAdvisor is proud to play this integral role in helping travellers feel more confident in their booking decisions.”

AUGUST 2016


VIEWS & INSIGHTS

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DINOS LEFKARITIS CHAIRMAN, LARNAKA TOURISM BOARD

SPEAKING AT THE AUTHORITY’S ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, DINOS LEFKARITIS, CHAIRMAN, LARNAKA TOURISM BOARD, ANALYSED WHY THE DESTINATION IS THE PLACE TO BE.

Larnaka

on the island, which constitutes 43 percent of agrotourism accommodations nationwide. The destination is also the first choice in terms of civil marriages performed by foreign visitors. Around 32 percent of the ceremonies carried out in Cyprus take place in Larnaca. Our city is a champion in sports tourism as it has managed to secure a significant share of the segment by hosting over 15 annual events of European and international calibre. Among these are the World Championship Beach Volleyball U19 in July and the World Cup Shooting Games coming in April 2017 which is set to attract participants from 65 countries. Larnaca also holds the largest share of repeat tourists among Cyprus’ coastal towns. Specifically, 60 percent of visi-

tors return again to our city. There is certainly a large variety of some more comparative advantages Larnaca boasts, such as its compact size and the fact that it is the most convenient and inexpensive accommodation base for a tourist who wants to explore the island. We still have a long way to go in order to increase our share [...]. However, Larnaca cannot become a mass tourist destination. It is no coincidence that 75 percent of the arrivals are free independent travellers as opposed to the respective island-wide rate which totals only 36 percent. Utilising the above mentioned possibilities, we can strengthen the existing tourism product of special interests and attract the appropriate specialised niche markets.

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espite its small number of beds, Larnaca received a major boost in tourism in recent years. We are now even at a point of having achieved significant milestones. We have the best diving spot in the world, the famous Zenobia and a positive development is the very recent delimitation of the new artificial reef which will probably be in Oroklini area and is set for completion in 2017. Moreover, Larnaca has the ideal conditions for water sports. Specifically, the Kiti and Pervolia area is ideal for the popular sport of kite surfing and there, travellers can find the only licensed and delineated beach for kite surfing on the island. In addition, experts on sailing repeatedly confirm in their public statements that the Larnaca Bay is among the best in the world for marine regattas. In addition, Larnaca is ranked first among other destinations in Cyprus in regards to its agrotourism offering; the district boasts the largest number of beds AUGUST 2016

Larnaka

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TRAVEL CHANNELS

LIMASSOL MARINA COMMEMORATES ENVIRONMENT DAY

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CSM PARTAKES IN DRAGON BOAT CHALLENGE

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ompeting in the Dragon Boat Challenge for a second year running, Columbia Shipmanagement Cyprus (CSM) came second in the standard boat corporate category. The event took place in May in Limassol with a total of 12 teams competing in two groups. The 200m race saw the company’s team finish in a time of 54:95 seconds, with U.N Blue Berets beating CSM to the post with a time of 51:45 seconds. Completing the top three was KPMG Dragons. Dragon Boat Challenge raised funds to send a Cyprus National Dragon Boat representation to the European Championships in Rome.

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s part of the World Environment Day festivities, Limassol Marina hosted an Environmental Awareness Day in June. Aiming to bring attention to related issues, the event started with a range of activities at the waterfront destination, such as educational games, live music by Silverline Private School’s choir and TAT-TNABAR band using recycled instruments. Moreover, the day included fundraising initiatives as well as interactive and educational exhibitions. Sponsored by Conercon Energy Solutions, a subsidiary of Lanitis Energy, the event – which was introduced for the first time on the island – created an enjoyable atmosphere within the marina, offering entertainment to visitors and participants.

ELIAS BEACH BACKS ENVIRONMENT DAY

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lias Beach Hotel celebrated the 42nd World Environment Day by raising awareness and educating children while demostration how the property cares for the environment, through an interactive activity at the kids’ club. As part of the hotel’s sustainability efforts to reduce, reuse and recycle, the team created a big banner to promote the day’s theme Go Wild for Life, using a bed sheet which was decorated with stones, sand, leaves and shells.

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aphos’ four golf courses saw two teams of professionals and amateurs put their bodies and minds on the line for the Macmillan Cancer Support by completing the charity’s marathon golfing competition in June. The Longest Day Golf Challenge saw eight individuals completing, for the first time in Cyprus, 72 holes in just a single day to raise money for the charity. By the end of the event, an estimated EUR8,500 was collected, though people kept donating long after the programme was over. The funds will be split between Macmillan Cancer Support and St Michaels Hospice in Paphos.

AUGUST 2016


PHOTO ALBUM

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Ayia Napa offers seatrac device for people with disabilities

Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to.

ElĂŠa Golf Club received TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence

International DJ Armin Van Buuren in Cyprus

AUGUST 2016

Send your photos to editorial@traveltradecyprus.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...

Singer Peter Andre enjoyed his flight to Larnaca with Thomas Cook Airlines

Manchester also welcomed Cobalt

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NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS 17TH PARADISE JAZZ FESTIVAL Pomos August 05 – 06 Paradise Place will play host to a rich programme with four bands and after hours jazz meetings.

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NICOSIA BEER FEST TO RETURN

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rganised the Nicosia Municipality, along with other local companies, this year’s instalment of the Nicosia Beer Fest is scheduled to open on September 02. The six-day event, which will offer guests a wide range of beers from around the world, as well as a variety of dishes, will boast a rich musical and artistic programme featuring renowned performers from Cyprus and Greece. Upon paying a small entrance fee, guests will also receive a pint of beer.

LAVENDER CELEBRATIONS IN PLATRES

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latres welcomed the First National Lavender Festival in June. Held at the community’s cultural centre, the event featured lavender plantation, the inauguration of the Royal Lavender Tea Room & Lavender Exhibition, and a series of seminars focussing on the wellness and beauty benefits of the herb.

FEDDE LE GRAND Limassol August 14 www.guababeachbar.com Beloved by fans around the world, not just for his music but also his performances and personality, Fedde Le Grand is a cornerstone artist in electronic dance music.

FESTIVAL DEDICATED TO BOOK LOVERS

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icosia recently welcomed a first of its kind book and reading festival called Book Journey 2016. The event, which took place in Faneromeni Square, featured more than 20,000 titles and visitors had the chance to buy their favourite volume with prices starting at EUR1. Other activities during the one-day initiative included fairy tale reading for kids, singing, dancing, live music performances and live links with popular radio stations.

WORLD MUSIC DAY EVENT IN AYIA NAPA

SEPTEMBERFEST Nicosia August 29 – September 04 For the sixth consecutive year, the Nicosia Beer Fun Festivals will feature a myriad of concerts by popular singers and bands.

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he Music Conservatory Niki Antoniou Karaiskou ended on a high note, on the World Music Day. The event, which took place at the Municipal Museum Ayia Napa, was part of the Summer Cultural Pentagram of Ayia Napa Municipality, which includes the established Glimpses, the revival of Cyprus Delivery neighbourhoods of Ayia Napa and Musical Sundays with music, dance, crafts exhibitions and other forms of art.

AUGUST 2016


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