SEPTEMBER 2014
ISSUE 19
EFFORTS TO REVIVE PAPHOS OLD TOWN ATUM DEVELOPMENTS ANNOUNCED THAT IT HAS STARTED THE PERMISSION PROCESS FOR ITS EDEN CITY REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT IN GEROSKIPOU.
04 CTO CONFIRMS 30 NEW TOURIST GUIDES
10 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE NICOSIA MONTHLY NEWS TRAVEL AGENTS NAUTICAL TOURISM BOARDS AIR ACCOMMODATION TRAVEL CHANNELS INTERNATIONAL IN FOCUS TRAVEL TALK RENDEZVOUS NEWS & EVENTS
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AMBITIOUS PROJECT COMMENCING IN PAPHOS
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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba
Top Kinisis Expects Profit Top Kinisis Travel announced that the group’s turnover for the six months ending June 30 is expected to show a decrease compared to the corresponding period of 2013.
PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB DEVELOPER / IT Soteris Constantinou 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@traveltradecyprus.travel PRINTED IN CYPRUS Cyprint Plc P.O. Box 58300, CY-3732, Limassol, Cyprus Tel: +357 25 720035, Fax: +357 25 720123 Email: info@cyprint.com.cy
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his is due to discontinuation of operations of the company’s subsidiary Kinisis Travel & Tours USA, as well as the termination of operations with low or negative contribution. Despite this, the results for the period spanning January 1 and June 30 are expected to show a material positive variance with respect to the same period of 2013, mainly due to the reduction of operating expenses. According to a statement by Top Kinisis Travel, due to the seasonality of the group’s operations, turnover for the second half of the year will be higher than that of the first, and the company will post profits at year end.
Ryanair: Passenger Numbers Soar EXCHANGE RATES
Accurate as of
27/08/2014 COUNTRY
CURRENCY
1EUR=
US (USD)
1.32
UK (GBP)
0.80
Switzerland (CHF)
1.21
Japan (JPY)
136.99
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ver 8.3 million travellers opted for Ryanair’s services in June, resulting in an additional 400,000 travellers over 2013. The five percent rise in passenger figures boosted load factor by four percentage points to 88 percent, and pushed year-to-date annual traffic to 82.7 million, up three percent. “Ryanair traffic grew by 400,000 to 8.3 million customers in June, thanks to our lower fares and our improving customer experience, including our great new website, allocated seating, a free second small carry-on bag and portable electronic devices use on all flights,” noted Kenny Jacobs, chief marketing officer, Ryanair, adding that the low-cost carrier continues to deliver much more than just low fares to its customers.
PICTURE OF THE MONTH
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SEPTEMBER 2014
NICOSIA MONTHLY NEWS
Cycling Event Held in Nicosia
Nicosia Municipal Theatre to be Restored
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he Cabinet approved the start of renovation works to the capital’s municipal theatre in a bid to rescue the facility. The main goal is to restart operations, using the space to host musical and other events, and overall transform it into a culture hall. The governmental body authorised the ministry of education and culture to undertake the necessary steps, in consultation with Nicosia Municipality, and to prepare studies to determine the exact cost of restoration of the theatre. Following the news, Nicosia Chamber of Commerce and Industry announced that this project will assist in the cultural and economic development of the city and will enhance the attractiveness of the tourism product through cultural initiatives.
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ike shop Cyclo, in association with the Cyprus Cycling Federation, organised the second edition of the CYCLO Cup race in late July, right in the heart of Nicosia. The event, which was held under the auspices of Nicosia Municipality, offered a pleasant sporting afternoon to many of the island’s best bikers, while attendees had the opportunity to enjoy the spectacle, music and drinks. Cyclo is a new bicycle shop based in the capital city, run by Marios Athanasiades, Michalis Karatzis and Nicodemos Protopapas, three young enthusiasts with a lot of experience in the field of cycling.
Bike Sharing Back on Track
Nicosia Municipal Theatre
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he Intermunicipal Bicycle Company of Nicosia (DEPL) announced the relaunch of the bike sharing initiative under the management of BrainBox, which is also the supplier. The project was originally put into action in 2011, but the economic crisis has had a serious impact on its viability and resultantly local authorities suspended it in order to achieve its upgrade, better maintenance of bicycles and efficient management, according to Marios Demetriades, minister, communication and works, Cyprus. Michalis Anastasiades, president, DEPL, said that the first phase was to see the launch of 14 stations with a total of 140 bikes, while the next two phases will include the reopening of a further 13 stations with 80 bicycles this month. Nicosia is looking forward to an integrated mobility plan of the urban area, which will consist of bus lanes in central boulevards and integrated networks for pedestrians and cyclists, revealed Demetriades.
SEPTEMBER 2014
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MONTHLY NEWS
Cyprus Museum and Kourion Site Awarded Two of Cyprus’ archaeological sites were recognised by TripAdvisor.
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he Department of Antiquities announced that the Cyprus Museum and the Archaeological Site of Kourion have been awarded the Certificate of Excellence 2014 by the travel organisation TripAdvisor, which is used daily by millions of travellers around the world. According to a relevant statement, the recognition is particularly important for the Department of Antiquities since it is based entirely on the travel experiences and quality reviews of visitors, and it is also a good advertisement, since every body awarded is promoted through social networking pages.
Efforts to Revive Paphos Old Town
Kourion Amphitheatre
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Discovering Limassol’s Beaches
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arious events held in Paphos old town throughout June by the society Friends of Old Paphos were hailed a great success, with hundreds of local and foreign visitors entertained alike. The programme included exhibitions for the protection of the sea, creations from recycled clothes and materials, games and activities for children, puppetry, photography exhibitions, music, face-painting, as well as rides on the municipality’s city train.
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new tourist guide of the series Discovering Cyprus has been presented by Andreas Papadopoulos, showcasing 33 beaches and points of interest along Limassol’s coastline. It is the second book of the series, which follows a similar publication on the coastal attractions of Ayia Napa and Protaras. Speaking during the book’s presentation, Marios Demetriades, minister of communication and works, Cyprus, said that Limassol boasts an excellent tourist infrastructure. “It certainly constitutes a valuable resource for foreign and Cypriot visitors to Limassol, garnering all information on access and services offered at the beaches of the province, featuring the appropriate air and ground photos, while being available in three luxurious versions in Greek, English and Russian,” he added.
Discovering Cyprus Guide
SEPTEMBER 2014
MONTHLY NEWS Swedish Mission Excavates in Larnaca
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he Department of Antiquities announced the completion of this year’s excavations at Hala Sultan Tekke, the famous mosque in Larnaca. The work lasted five weeks and took place during May and June by a team from the University of
Gothenburg, Sweden, under the direction of professor Peter Fischer. The excavations revealed hitherto unknown parts of the ancient city, dating to the late Bronze Age (14th – 12th century BC), while it is estimated
that the city occupied an area of 25 – 50ha. With the aim of identifying buried architectural remains advance technological detection methods have been used, such as underground radar and magnetometer equipment.
High Quality Tourism from Russia
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peaking at the Cyprus – Russian Festival, Nicos Anastasiades, president, Cyprus, emphasised that in the past months there has been on increased flow of high-quality travellers from Russia, a fact that the government will pursue further. He also said, “The relationship between our two countries has a prosperous future and the government will make every effort to create even more powerful ties and practical cooperation between the two nations.” Commenting on the festival’s role, Anastasiades ermes Airports underlined has launched that for more thethan #CyprusAeropolis a decade now prothe Cyprus-Russian ject, a new Festival initiative attracts that creates thousands a dynamic of people and and integrated has espresence tablished on itselfmajor as ansocial important media networks, event in the including culturalYouTube, life of Cyprus Facebook, as anTwitter annualand celebration Instagram.of the stable #CyprusAeropolis and longstanding has been friendly created bondsasbetween a digitalthe community two countries. of the island’s airports where Hermes Airports can share with the public its latest news, extensive audio-visual coverage of its events, promotional campaigns, airline offers, various contests and much more. Through its increased presence on the online portals, the airport operator aims to establish an authentic, friendly and interactive relationship with passengers from all over the globe. The name, #CyprusAeropolis, reinforces the idea of an airports community that connects people, services and companies.
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Cyprus-Russian Festival
SEPTEMBER 2014
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MONTHLY NEWS Focussing on Cultural Heritage
Hala Sultan Tekke Granted TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence
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Hala Sultan Tekke
he Department of Antiquities has launched a dedicated publication concerning the proceedings of the international workshop, Protecting the Cultural Heritage of Cyprus: Joining efforts in preventing the illicit trafficking of cultural heritage. Organised by the Department of Antiquities in collaboration with the Church of Cyprus and the Cyprus American Archaeological Research Institute, the workshop had dealt with the issue of the illicit trafficking of cultural goods and highlighted the value of the common efforts of numerous organisations and experts in combating of the worldwide problem.
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ripAdvisor, one of the most prominent user-generated travel websites, has presented its Certificate of Excellence to Hala Sultan Tekke, in the coastal town of Larnaca. Due to the results being drawn from visitors’ experiences of the attraction, and TripAdvisor’s policy of advertising the winners through social media, the award is regarded as a significantly favourable advocacy of both the mosque, and of Cypriot cultural heritage in general. The Department of Antiquities, Ministry of Communications and Works, Cyprus, attributes this success to its continuous endeavours to refurbish the country’s museums and historical monuments, in spite of current economic strains.
Exhibits at Cyprus Archaeological Museum
Marios Demetriades, minister, communications and works, Cyprus, commented, “In recent years we have had some very positive developments which have been the result of close cooperation and mutual respect and understanding between countries and tireless efforts of government organisations, the Church of Cyprus and private institutions and individuals. One of the most important developments has been the largest repatriation to date of Cypriot antiquities which were brought back from Munich, Germany.”
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Two New Beaches Inaugurated in Larnaca
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Ormidia Beach
he region of Larnaca, which already enjoys a variety of award-winning beaches with clean, safe waters and public amenities, has added two new organised coastal areas to
its list. The first beach in the Softades area of Kiti was officially opened this summer, as it has been upgraded with public conveniences and amenities, making it more accessible, especially to families. The second site, Armenou, located in Ormidia was previously closed off to the public as it fell under the administration of UK Sovereign Base Areas. Under a new agreement that allows the land to be developed, the community has taken the opportunity to upgrade the beach and surrounding area and create its first organised beach. The beach features toilets, showers, sunloungers and umbrellas, as well as an outdoor café, disabled ramp, beach volley courts, sports fields, green spaces, night lighting and parking for 400 cars.
SEPTEMBER 2014
TRAVEL AGENTS MONTHLY NEWS ClubstoHire and TUI Extend Golf Offering with Cyprus
Orthodoxou Travel & Tours Supports Volleyball Championships
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rthodoxou Travel & Tours played a major role in the successful organisation of this year’s Beach Volleyball U21 World Championships as the event’s official travel agent. The travel company, which has been part of the Cyp-
riot tourism scene since 1995, assisted in the coordination of the event, which ran between July 23 – 27 in Larnaca. Held in memory of Cyprus’ late president, Glafkos Klerides, the championship was one of the main events in the International Volleyball Association’s calendar.
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yprus is set to further cement its reputation as an up-and-coming golf destination, following ClubstoHire and TUI Deutschland’s agreement which allows the German travel operator to extend its golfing packages with high-end clubs on offer to its customers. Under the terms of the deal, the Dublin-based rental company, which supplied 40,000 sets of clubs in 2013, made its sets available at eight key locations in the Mediterranean, including Aphrodite Hills in Cyprus.
Tony Judge and Gerry McKernan, founders, ClubstoHire
“A core target for us is delivering a premium experience for our travelling golf clients and the service that ClubstoHire offers is perfect for those going abroad,” said Mario Schomann, head of golf, TUI Deutschland, adding that the service makes golf travel far more convenient. Apart from Cyprus, Faro, Malaga, Palma, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Belek and Marrakech are competing for the attention of golf fans.
SEPTEMBER 2014
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MONTHLY NEWS Zenobia Wreck under the Spotlight
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a S h 104 bia, n t Zeno aded wi cks whe u lo r r t s e a h w nd n ers a sunk o ge to she n voya e maid yprus in ? C 0 198 June
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yprus’ most popular wreck dive site, Zenobia, was recently celebrated with a host of activities under the umbrella of the first Zenobia Week, held in July. The event highlighted why Zenobia ranks as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world, as well as producing photographic images of the wreck through a competition. As it sank on its maiden voyage, the ship is known as The Titanic of the Mediterranean, and is hailed as the largest wreck in the Mediterranean at 174m long, 28m wide, and 21m high. Zenobia is now an amazing reef, home to hundreds of marine life species such as giant tuna, local barracuda, kingfish, jacks, trigger fish, moray eels, stingrays, turtles and octopuses.
Zenobia Wreck
Larnaca Boosts Sporting Image
Cyprus Airways up for Sale
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ports fans flocked to Larnaca this summer to enjoy a series of major sporting events that relied on the city’s most appealing assets, the sand and the sea. Beach Volleyball U21 World Championships took place for the second time on the sands of the Foinikoudes promenade, and welcomed a total of 128 athletes from 61 countries, who took part in over 200 games. Moreover, following the success of 2013’s King of the Kite kitesurfing championships, the second competition was also held this year in Mazotos, featuring freestyle and freeride races, along with a special guest from the arena of international kitesurfing. Lastly, the 1st Cyprus SUP CUP, organised by KiteMed, launched in July with the first race, and will revisit Larnaca on October 5.
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yprus’ national carrier, Cyprus Airways announced that, in collaboration with its major shareholder, the government of the republic of Cyprus, it is seeking to sell shares, assets or both to a private investor. Commenting on the second phase of the procedure, Marios Demetriades, minister, communication and works, Cyprus, said that the government has examined the proposals of the companies which had already expressed their interest in the airline, and in partnership with a consulting firm, will then proceed accordingly.
SEPTEMBER 2014
NAUTICAL MONTHLY NEWS Thomson Cruises Awards CSM with Five-year Contract
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yprus-based COLUMBIA Shipmanagement (CSM) has been appointed to Thomson Cruises and Island Cruises, part of UK holiday company TUI UK & Ireland, technical management partner for its three
owned cruise ships. CSM won the five-year contract after a thorough tender process involving several of the industry’s leading ship management companies. The deal, which will begin in November
and concerns vessels Thomson Celebration, Thomson Dream and Island Escape, will be structured in a different and innovative way that brings ship owners and managers closer together in a more collaborative partnership.
Limassol Marina to Boost Economy
Nicos Anastasiades (right)
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imassol Marina is a development project in the true sense of the word, attested Nicos Anastasiades, president, Cyprus, during the launch of the marina’s commercial area. He added that the trading part of the marina, with restaurants and shops, will become a magnet for locals and tourists alike, while he noted that apart from its nautical and business districts, the project includes a large number of residential units of high architectural quality that have attracted the interest of several foreign buyers, through which Cyprus will receive much-needed foreign capital. “From the commencement of construction works and until the final completion, more than 1,000 people will have been employed inside and outside the marina. Limassol Marina will continue to directly or indirectly employ around 800 workers for its operational needs and peripheral services,” Anastasiades concluded.
SEPTEMBER 2014
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MONTHLY NEWS TOURISM BOARDS
Positive Outlook for Congress Tourism
As part of its strategic objective to promote conference tourism on the island, Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) participated in a specialised international event.
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t CONFEC Blue, which was held between June 12 – 14 in Alicante, Spain, Cyprus was represented by Annita Demetriadou, director of tourism, strategy and research, CTO, and Nicoletta Paphitis, tourism officer, CTO. At this year’s event foreign conference and incentive travel organisers as well as pharmaceutical companies showed a particular interest in launching their new products in Cyprus and holding events in the country. During meetings with various attendees, the CTO representatives showcased new developments and investments in Cyprus, CTO’s grant schemes, as well as the potential of the destination as a conference and incentive tourism hub.
Limassol Municipal Market: Driving Interest for Tourists
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imassol Tourism Board, in collaboration with Limassol Municipality, held a business breakfast at the city’s municipal market in a bid to have the recently refurbished site included in various tour operators’ programmes. Limassol Municipal MarLimassol Tourism Board’s Tour ket features stands for selling traditional items, fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, bread, herbs and teas, wines, works of art, flowers and more. This riot of colours and smells should attract domestic and foreign tourists alike who wish to shop and soak in the local character of the area. The event was attended by tours, conferences and incentive trips organisers and tour guides, who explored the site and were informed about future additions and upgrades at the market, including traditional pottery and painting workshops.
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CTO Confirms 30 New Tourist Guides
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yprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) recently held a ceremony where 30 new tourist guides were awarded their graduation diplomas after completing a 14-month programme of extensive knowledge, training and education. A significant number of graduates are Russian-speaking and this is expected to alleviate the shortage of guides, which is particarly important given the significant increase in visitors from Russia. Andros Papageorgiou, president, executive committee, Guides School, thanked The University of Cyprus for its contribution to the educational syllabus of the faculty as well as the Cyprus Certification Company, stressing that CTO’s guides school is the first to have applied the relevant European standards. New Guides
SEPTEMBER 2014
TOURISM BOARDS MONTHLY NEWS Famagusta Region Performs Well
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peaking at Famagusta Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s annual general meeting, Yiorgos Lakkotrypis, minister, energy, commerce, industry and tourism, Cyprus, highlighted that the tourism sector is a top priority since it contributes much to the national GDP. He observed that statistics are encouraging, with tourist arrivals increasing by 3.5 percent between January – May, compared with 2013, while for the summer months very high occupancies were recorded in hotels of the Famagusta district. Important infrastructure projects are in the pipeline for the region, Lakkotrypis said, referring to the creation of a golf course, the soon-to-be-launched artificial reef which is to boost diving tourism, and the construction of a marina, all in Ayia Napa.
Ayia Napa to Host New Park
Paphos Needs a Boost
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afos Regional Board of Tourism held its annual general meeting which was attended by Angelos Loizou, chairman, Cyprus Tourism Organisation, as well as George Leptos, former president, Pafos Regional Board of Tourism, who underlined that the authority’s goal is to develop tourism in the region through the qualitative improvement of product and service offerings. The various participants concluded that Paphos needs to be established as an international quality destination, and this can be achieved with additional flights to Pafos International Airport and various infrastructure projects which include upgrading of the region’s harbours and installation of an anchorage in Paphos port to be able to receive cruise ships.
Angelos Loizou (right)
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he Ayia Napa Municipality will soon proceed in creating a dried plant and cactuses park. The facility, which will be called The Mediterranean Dried Plant and Cactus Park of Ayia Napa, will be created as an extension to the sculpture park area, which is located at the intersection of Cape Greco and Kriou Nerou avenues. Meanwhile, the municipality decided to establish the Succulents and Cacti Club which will help in the creation and completion of the park, and invited all interested fans to register with the cultural department of the municipality.
SEPTEMBER 2014
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MONTHLY NEWS AIR More Flights to Cyprus
Larnaka International Airport
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s a result of concerted efforts, Hermes Airports has drawn up a number of agreements with various airlines for the operation of new routes and increased frequencies to and from the international airports of the island. Spanish low-cost carrier, Vueling Airlines, inaugurated its new twice-weekly service between Larnaca and Barcelona on June 28, following hot on the heels of the introduction of Wizz Air’s Larnaca - Vilnius flights. In response to the growing demand, British Airways has been operating more services between Cyprus and the UK during the summer season, while Edelweiss Air decided to retain the Larnaca - Zurich route for the winter season as well. As of October 26, Ryanair is expected to renew its routes to the island linking Paphos with Rome-Ciampino, Brussels- Charleroi, Kaunas, Manchester, London-Stansted, Thessaloniki, Athens and Chania, while Austrian NIKI is set to commence operations between Paphos and Vienna in March 2015. In addition, Hermes Airports is also in negotiation with two German companies, Germanwings and Germania to persuade them to add Cyprus to their route map.
Gulf Air Promotes New Route
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ulf Air exhibited its newly relaunched itinerary to Athens, to 10 distinguished Bahrain- and Kuwait-based travel agents. The airline has established a schedule of four weekly flights to its new European destination. The guests took part in a four-day trip to the city, to signify the inauguration of the airline’s new route. In addition to this, the agents were able to explore the Greek capital’s most wellknown historical and tourist attractions. Bahrain’s national carrier carried out the flight on its Airbus A320-ER, which was exclusively designed for the company. The new aircraft boasts full flat-bed seats, and also features Gulf Air’s latest amusement technologies.
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SEPTEMBER 2014
AIR MONTHLY NEWS AEGEAN Airlines Receives CSR Award
Blue Air: Thrice Weekly Flights to Cyprus
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EGEAN Airlines has been honoured with the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Award by the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) in recognition of the company’s long-standing commitment to corporate social responsibility initiatives. The distinction acknowledges in particular the airline’s strategic decision to systematically invest in corporate responsibility. In this context, AEGEAN Airlines this year implemented a series of actions aimed at highlighting Greece’s cultural heritage, developing tourism, supporting education, promoting and reinforcing sports, adopting eco-friendly practices, and supporting vulnerable groups in society.
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omanian airline, Blue Air has announced its new schedule for the winter season. Effective between October 27 and March 28, 2015, the low-cost carrier will operate three weekly services between Larnaca and Bucharest on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, providing passengers with flexible and affordable access to Romania and beyond. From the capital city, travellers can continue their journey to various key leisure and business destinations across Europe, including London, Paris, Brussels, Madrid, Stuttgart and Rome, to name but a few. The airline’s exclusive representative in Cyprus, Orthodoxou Aviation is already accepting bookings.
Aeroflot: 1.9 Million Passengers in a Month
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eroflot carried a total of 1.9 million passengers in May, marking a 13.7 percent growth over the corresponding period in 2013. The rise was aided by a 28.8 percent year-on-year hike in domestic traffic, driven in part by increased operations on high-demand routes, while international volumes rose 2.3 percent as a result of reduced capacity on services to a number of destinations, including Larnaca. Consequently the Russian carrier’s load factor improved marginally 0.6 percentage points to 74.5 percent. Meanwhile, Aeroflot Group registered 2.9 million passengers for the month under review, up 9.5 percent year-on-year, fuelled by a 20.8 percent growth in domestic traffic. Average load factor for the group rose 1.1 percentage points year-on-year to 74.4 percent.
SEPTEMBER 2014
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Theodoros Vassilakis, chairman, AEGEAN Airlines (left) and Nikos Dendias, minister, development and competitiveness, Greece
Wizz Air Boosts Romanian Operations
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izz Air is to further expand its Romanian bases, Cluj-Napoca and Timisoara with the addition of new aircraft and services. Starting from December 20, the low-cost carrier will deploy a fourth aircraft from Cluj-Napoca, subsequently introducing three new services from the hub to Cologne, Geneva, and Malmo, all of which will follow the upcoming launch of the Nuremberg service, effective from October 1. From Timisoara, passengers will benefit from new connections to Munich Memmingen, Turin, Brussels Charleroi, and Frankfurt Hahn, with the first flights taking off from November 1 onwards. Moreover, the carrier will also introduce extra frequencies on a number of popular routes, boosting the Wizz Air operation to 87 routes from seven Romanian airports.
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MONTHLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
AMBITIOUS PROJECT COMMENCING IN PAPHOS Atum Developments, the Hungarian-led enterprise, announced that it has started the permission process with the Cypriot Planning Department for its Eden City real estate development project in Geroskipou.
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he mixed-use development will span approximately 200ha and is planned to be a five-star luxury complex incorporating three main elements; Divina Island, a manmade construction combining hotels, residences, and a marina, The Peninsula, a coastal complex with apartments, restaurants and a shopping centre, and Garden of Eden, a cultural and business district including an Arts Village and the International Cultural and Conference Centre of Cyprus. According to Zsolt Szenasi, CEO, Atum Developments, it is expected that permits will be issued this autumn and construction, which will span 10 years, is set to commence in summer 2015.
Eden City
Cypriot Breakfast to be Served in Hotels
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ithin the context of upgrading the tourism product centering on Cypriot gastronomy, Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) has launched a major initiative to encourage hotels to include a Cypriot breakfast in their offering. Alongside CTO, partners of the Cyprus Destination Partnership are the Cyprus Association for Sustainable Tourism and The Travel Foundation, UK. The initiative is based on a study that was completed in January, which showed that tourists look for authentic flavours offered by the local gastronomy. Among the criteria for participation in the programme is the requirement to train cooks on how to use elements of the Cypriot cuisine for breakfast. Until now three educational seminars have been held in Paphos by chefs appointed for this purpose and the project is already in its pilot phase in the district.
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Annabelle and Almyra Open Teens Club
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nnabelle and Almyra, the five-star luxury properties of Thanos Hotels, have inaugurated their Escape explorer teens club, a project which allows adolescents to interact in an enjoyable yet supervised environment. The initiative is aimed at teenage residents, and includes activities such as snorkelling, swimming, bootcamp training, scuba diving and various other sports. In addition to this, members can choose to get involved with video gaming challenges, water park trips, creative art, paintball, Segway tours, photography, or even movie nights. The meeting space is located in Annabelle’s graffiti-inspired teen rooms, fitted with pool tables, table tennis, air hockey and TVs, where teens can relax in between their schedules.
Kanika Sells Two Properties
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lexander the Great Beach Hotel in Paphos and Kanika International Business Centre in Limassol were recently sold, in two separate multimillion deals, both involving Russian clients of the Limassol-based chartered accountancy firm, Costas Tsielepis & Co. Alexis Tsielepis, director, Costas Tsielepis & Co, which was at the forefront of another recent foreign investment involving Le MĂŠriden Spa & Resort, explained that the newlyrenovated luxury hospitality unit, Alexander the Great Beach Hotel, will continue to be operated by Kanika Hotels through a long-term lease agreement already signed with the new owners. He added that the luxury office complex developed by Kanika Developments will be operated by its new owners, who have plans to maintain and further enhance its operations.
SEPTEMBER 2014
RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: The resort features already more than 10 food and beverage (F&B) outlets catering to a wide variety of cuisines. Tell us a bit about this offering. NICHOLAS KITTIS: We currently offer 14 food and beverage outlets at the resort. The concept of the restaurants is the variety and to be able to offer tastes from around the world locally and internationally, thus making the experience of the guest a memorable one. Another important factor is the pricing levels and dining experience, where a guest can choose from a take-away souvlaki to a fine dining experience.
Q & A with Nicholas Kittis
FOOD AND BEVERAGE DIRECTOR, INTERCONTINENTAL APHRODITE HILLS RESORT HOTEL CYPRUS
TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: What triggered the decision to relocate your second Asian outlet, the Asian Corner which offers mainly Chinese dishes? NICHOLAS KITTIS: In fact, we actually moved the old Asian restaurant to the hotel which will allow us to now operate the restaurant in the winter as well, something which was not possible in the past due to its previous outdoor location.
TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: Which of the outlets are the most popular among your guests and what are the reasons? NICHOLAS KITTIS: Our most popular restaurants are Pithari Taverna and Zimi Trattoria. The tavern is popular due to the fact that most guests wish to experience traditional Cypriot cuisine. For Zimi, its popularity is based on its location which is overlooking the playground, where families can dine and supervise their children, together with its prices and concept which exudes a family atmosphere. TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: The latest F&B addition at InterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort Hotel, Cyprus is the Indian-themed Gate to India. Tell us about the concept of the restaurant. NICHOLAS KITTIS: The concept of the restaurant is outdoors with vibrant colours and many flowers. The idea originated from the fact that the Indian cuisine has always been very popular amongst UK clients, as well as the local market. Studying our clientele and the possibility of opening another restaurant
within the resort, Indian was the most popular choice. Gate to India is a middle- and upper-range restaurant offering authentic flavours, with a selection of dishes from around India. Importantly, I must also note that we have used local products such as halloumi and improvised with the Indian flavours and spices. The kitchen team which is the heart of the restaurant originates from India.
TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: Which segments are you targeting with the new restaurant and how has demand been since Gate to India’s opening? NICHOLAS KITTIS: Demand has been exceptional. The markets are the local tourists who are staying at the resort, the owners of villas on the resort, as well as the local market which is very important to us.
INTERCONTINENTAL APHRODITE HILLS RESORT HOTEL CYPRUS HAS A NEW FINE DINING ALTERNATIVE, WITH GATE TO INDIA PROMISING TO AMAZE GUESTS. NICHOLAS KITTIS, FOOD AND BEVERAGE DIRECTOR, INTERCONTINENTAL APHRODITE HILLS RESORT HOTEL CYPRUS, ELABORATES ON THE RESORT’S INVENTORY.
InterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort Hotel
InterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort Hotel
SEPTEMBER 2014
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WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2014
WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS
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Aphrodite Hills Resort Wins Best Suite Award
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nterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort Hotel has won the World Travel Award in the Leading Suite category for the Presidential Suite Enalia, making this the ninth award since its opening in 2005. The resort is hailed as one of the finest, fully-integrated, luxury resort developments in the world, and the extremely prestigious award is proven to substantially heighten the hotel’s international profile, providing it with a highly-effective advantage in making sales and marketing stand out from the competition. Currently in its 21st year, World Travel Awards began as a means to acknowledge and celebrate excellence.
Hilton Cyprus Triumphs at World Travel Awards
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ilton Cyprus has been recognised as Cyprus’ leading business hotel for the second consecutive time at the European final of World Travel Awards, voted for by travel agents worldwide. Charis Michael, hotel manager, Hilton Cyprus, commented, “I am delighted to see Hilton Cyprus recognised at these well-respected awards [...]. This demonstrates the team’s outstanding commitment to providing Hilton’s world-renowned hospitality to our guests and the quality of the hotel’s facilities.” At the Europe Gala Ceremony, which took place in Athens, Hilton Cyprus was one of 24 Hilton Worldwide properties from the continent to receive an accolade.
Londa Beach Hotel Grabs Prestigious Award
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orld Travel Awards has bestowed two honours on Limassol’s boutique property Londa Beach Hotel, recognising it as both Cyprus’ Leading Boutique Hotel and Cyprus’ Leading Hotel. On receiving the two golden shields, Jochen Niemann, general manager, Londa Beach Hotel, said, “It was a humbling experience knowing that I was representing one of the best hotels in Europe because I would not be there if not for all the hard work of the staff and the appreciation of our guests. Such notable awards like these are a reminder to all in the travel industry that we must always aim to be the best at what we do.”
Columbia Beach Resort Voted Cyprus’s Leading Resort
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olumbia Beach Resort, the luxury five-star hotel in Pissouri Bay Cyprus, has been recognised at this year’s World Travel Awards (WTA), by being named Cyprus’ Leading Resort. This is the fifth time the property has received a WTA award. One of only two hotels in the panoramic Pissouri Bay on the south west coast of Cyprus, Columbia Beach Resort and its sister hotel Columbia Beachotel enjoy an unspoiled location on a 2km Blue Flag beach. Renowned for its cuisine, offering a first class version of the Cyprus meze and Italian Gourmet at its best, the resort also features a highly-regarded spa located at the heart of the property. SEPTEMBER 2014
INTERNATIONAL MONTHLY NEWS AEGEAN Airlines Elected Best Regional Airline in Europe
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EGEAN Airlines has been presented with the Best Regional Airline in Europe title, in the 2014 Skytrax World Airline Awards. The Star Alliance member has been granted this distinction for the fourth consecutive year, and for the fifth time since 2009. During the awards ceremony, Eftichios Vassilakis, vice chairman, Aegean Airlines, observed, “We are well aware of the fact that there is always room for improvement in order to maintain our passengers’ devotion and trust in the future.” The accolades are distributed according to the results of 18.85 million passenger surveys, which originate from more than 160 countries worldwide.
Zissis Pehlevanoudis, vice chairman, AEGEAN Airlines
In focus NAME:
Stavros Kleovoulou
POSITION:
Founder and partner
COMPANY:
OM Destination Management
LOCATION:
Limassol
WEBSITE:
www.omdmc.com
SEPTEMBER 2014
Double-digit Occupancy Growth in Athens
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thens’ hotel sector continues to show strong year-on-year improvements. Based on data compiled by STR Global, in April occupancy levels in the Greek capital city reached 64.9 percent, up 17.3 percent, posting the largest increase in that metric in Europe, and lifting RevPAR by 23.7 percent to EUR59.44. The other top performer of the month proved to be Tel Aviv, achieving double-digit increases in both average daily rate and RevPAR. Overall, the European hotel industry posted mixed results for April, with average occupancy standing at 68.3 percent, up 1.8 percent, and with the northern and southern countries, including Greece, Portugal and Spain, far outperforming Western and Eastern Europe.
Who are you? OM Destination Management organises conferences, incentives, product launches, special themed and dining events, venue finding and VIP services in Cyprus and Greece, successfully managing over 1,093 events since 1989, with dedication and thoroughness given to every occasion. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? Being an authentic Cypriot, born in the cosmopolitan town of Limassol, I am proud of my country and heritage. I am fascinated by extreme activities and at the same time I enjoy a good glass of local wine and love to plan trips to the most interesting regions. My passion for Cyprus and as the company’s founder, [means] I present our island in my own unique way. Being in the travel industry, I have acquired incredible experiences, loyal friendships and fond memories of unforgettable happenings. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? For a relaxing getaway, I enjoy travelling to the Greek Islands. Why is Cyprus an ideal destination to visit? With the warmest all-year-round Mediterranean climate, Cyprus is the ideal destination for yacht racing, gala dinners by ancient sites, 4x4 challenges and trendy beach events, whether the setting is a glitzy ballroom, a traditional village square, a long golden strip of sandy beach, or an ancient site.
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TRAVEL TALK
ZSOLT SZENASI CEO, Atum Developments.
We started searching for a project in Cyprus one and a half years ago
I firmly believe that COLUMBIA Shipmanagement is the right partner
We are happy to reach the important milestone for our project [Eden City, in Paphos] of commencing the permission process. We started searching for a project in Cyprus one and a half years ago, and since autumn 2013, we have been planning this project with our partner, the Church of Cyprus. We very much appreciate not only their hard work but also the work put in by our international development advisors, engineers and designer companies, as well as our local partners, including Charilaos Apostolides Public, Iacovou Brothers Group, and Cybarco.
“I am delighted to announce our new [technical management] partnership with COLUMBIA Shipmanagement. Over the last 18 months its senior management team has worked closely with my senior operations team, to develop an innovative governance structure that brings shipowners and managers closer together. As a result I firmly believe that COLUMBIA Shipmanagement is the right partner to ensure that we continue to drive the highest operational, safety and environmental standards - a key part of our plans as we enhance the fleet.”
HELEN CARON Managing director, Thomson Cruises and Island Cruises.
The hotel industry has invested more than EUR200 million, [in upgrades]
HARIS LOIZIDES Chairman, Cyprus Hotel Association.
“[In March 2013, when cash liquidity was limited] large tour operators made advanced payments for the value of their contracts with local hotels providing much-needed funding. This enabled hoteliers to make the necessary renovations and extensions. We estimate that through this process, the hotel industry has invested more than EUR200 million, realising important projects of upgrading and adding an additional 3,000 new beds, in a period that no one dared to invest.”
CTO will utilise Cyprus’ monuments to create a tourism route
ANNITA DEMETRIADOU Director of tourism, strategy and research, Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO).
“Within the framework of the European Programme EUHeritage TOUR in which CTO is a partner, [the authority will utilise Cyprus’ monuments included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List] to create a tourism route which will be attractive to new visitors, aimed at collecting experiences and acquiring knowledge through their travels. This is based on the principles of sustainable tourism and competitiveness which is of major importance especially in this time of crisis which is affecting all European countries.”
TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradecyprus.travel
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SEPTEMBER 2014
RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: Following a joint venture agreement between Kanika Hotels & Resorts and Claridge Public, Amathus Beach Hotel Paphos will reopen in 2015 as Olympic Lagoon Resort Paphos. Please tell us about this deal. SPYROS MICHAELIDES: Through the joint venture and agreement with Claridge Public, to transform Amathus Beach Hotel Paphos into the premium all-inclusive Olympic Lagoon Resort Paphos, we will expand this extremely successful concept and product on the market, both locally and internationally. The new joint venture, Olympic Lagoon Hotels, will take over the hotel from October 1. Extensive upgrading and renovation works, [signalling] a multimillion investment, will be undertaken, aiming to upgrade and expand the hotel into its new concept.
Q & A with Spyros Michaelides
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, KANIKA HOTELS
TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: The hotel upon reopening will operate in line with Kanika’s premium all-inclusive concept, similar to the existing Olympic Lagoon Resort Ayia Napa. What more are future guests to expect from both hotels in terms of new offering and services? SPYROS MICHAELIDES: Olympic Lagoon Resort Paphos will offer a successfully tried and tested, differentiated approach to five-star holidays; tailored and dedicated accommodation, facilities and services for families, couples and adults only. A rich variety of dining options, activities, entertainment and different pools for all ages will create a beachfront water wonderland for everyone. All these within a premium allinclusive holiday with a guest-centred dimension. Founded on the belief that life is beautiful and glorious, Olympic Lagoon Resorts is an inspirational journey where you will enjoy wonderful experiences that evoke the greatest and most sensational feelings: love, happiness, excitement, rejuvenation. Located on one of the best beachfront locations in Paphos, with panoramic views across the turquoise Mediterranean Sea to the quaint fishing harbour and the medieval fort, the new five-star Olympic Lagoon Resort Paphos is a fascinating resort offering an upgraded array of its trademark facilities and services. [...] SEPTEMBER 2014
IN THE SPIRIT OF CONTINUED INNOVATION KANIKA HOTELS IS CONSTANTLY LOOKING TO UPGRADE FACILITIES, ENHANCE ITS PRODUCT AND DELIVER A HIGH STANDARD HOLIDAY. SPYROS MICHAELIDES, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, KANIKA HOTELS, COMMENTS ON THE COMPANY’S STRATEGY AND PLANS. TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: Which are the group’s main feeder markets and how have these changed over the past few years? What are your expectations for 2015 for all the hotels? SPYROS MICHAELIDES: Through yearlong collaborations, Kanika Hotels have developed and established solid strategic partnerships with the most important global travel organisers from several feeder markets and most importantly
the UK market. Furthermore, Kanika has a strong positioning in the second most important feeder market, Russia, with a strategic partnership. Feedback from tour operators, as well as from our guests directly, has already confirmed that we have clearly identified what holidaymakers truly appreciate; an extraordinary experience combined with exceptional value on which we base our future strategic plans.
TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: Since 2010 Kanika Hotels & Resorts has invested more than EUR30 million in upgrading and renovating its established hotels. What is in store for the next couple of years in terms of upgrades as well as new acquisitions? SPYROS MICHAELIDES: As a leading family of hotels in Cyprus, Kanika has decades of experience in the hospitality industry and the tourism sector as a whole. Of all the lessons we have learned and applied over the years, one is particularly important, and might even sound like a contradiction; to maintain a good reputation, you have to embrace systematic change. That is why we invest in regular renovation works and expansions that will offer our repeat guests welcome and wonderful surprises every time they return to their favourite Kanika destination. The popularity and market response to our recently re-created Olympic Lagoon Resort in Ayia Napa has surpassed all expectations, which is why we are repeating the Olympic model in Paphos and possibly very soon in other countries. Following the success of the Olympic Lagoon Resort, Kanika Hotels has developed a second hotel concept, an ultraluxury resort concept designed exclusively for couples. It combines sophisticated elegance with the traditional Kanika hospitality aiming to offer a unique hotel ambience through differentiated personalised services and amenities specifically designed for the needs and wants of the couples market. The first hotel is scheduled to be launched in 2016 at a strategic location which Kanika Hotels has already secured in the Paphos area. We could not, however, meet our corporate and social goals without understanding our markets, relating to each other and ensuring that everyone we contact receives what we call the Kanika spirit. S.P.I.R.I.T is an acronym for Service, Professionalism, Innovation, Respect, Integrity and Teamwork. It then is subdivided into actions that Kanika staff members have identified. [...] It took honesty and integrity for our staff to come together and discuss what they felt were the most important aspects of our work. But the exercise bore fruit, and now the Kanika S.P.I.R.I.T underlines our purpose and vision; “To offer the leading hospitality experience in Cyprus, through our innovative facilities and services.”
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NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS
ETC Forum on Market Trends Did you
know. .
iorig was ished in C T l E n b esta s bee nally and ha urope 8 194 oting E ly ever prom ational rn nce? inte si
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t its second gathering to be held on October 27 in San Giuliano Terme, Italy, the European Travel Commission (ETC) Forum on Market Trends 2014 and 2015 aims to analyse travel trends to Europe and European destinations based on IPK World Travel Monitor results. Participation in the event is free of charge for ETC members, while those who register for the forum can also enrol in the 22nd World Travel Monitor Forum also for free. ETC is a non-profit organisation responsible for promoting of Europe as a tourist destination to third markets, as it consists of 33 member national tourism organisations.
Festival of Ancient Greek Drama Hosted by Pafos2017
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ased on the central idea of the Open Air Factory and in line with its multicultural character, the organisation Pafos2017 – European Capital of Culture, in association with the 18th International Festival of Ancient Greek Drama, has integrated all the performances taking place in the city’s ancient odeon in the official programme of Pafos2017. The festival, which took place in July, premiered with Euripides’ Medea, in a joint production of the Croatian National Theatre, the Pandur.Theatres in Slovenia and Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Performances included amongst others, Aristophanes’ Lysistrata by Highway Productions & NPO Lykofos, Greece, as well as Aeschylus’ Oresteia: The Libation Bearers, and The Eumenides by La Istituto Nazionale del Dramma Antico Fondazione, Italy.
WINE FESTIVAL Limassol August 28 – September 7, 2014 (www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy) A regular fixture in the island’s winemaking tradition since 1961.
KYPRIA INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL Nicosia, Larnaca, Limassol and Famagusta, September 3 – October 8, 2014 (www.kypria.org.cy) Launched in 1993, the event became the catalyst for the birth of a unique cultural movement.
16TH PAFOS APHRODITE FESTIVAL Medieval Castle, Paphos, September 5 – 7, 2014 (www.pafc.com.cy) It presents Mozart’s opera Cosi Fan Tutte in co-production with Opera Futura from Verona and Cyprus Symphony Orchestra.
AKAMAS MOUNTAINBIKE CHALLENGE
Cleared Up Beaches in Ayia Napa
A Cleared Beach
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yia Napa Municipality has carried out extensive purification of a number of beaches in its jurisdiction and as of July all visitors to the coastal town can benefit from the unlimited space and comfort as the specific sites will not feature sun beds and umbrellas. Sunbathers at Ziatzi, Mikri Lanta and Loukkos tou Manti, located west of the picturesque harbour; can use the new beaches freely and enjoy the sun and sea, bringing their own equipment with them at no extra charge.
Akamas, Paphos, September 6 – 7, 2014 (www.cyclingcy.com) Open to sport and nature lovers, the challenge highlights Akamas’ natural beauty.
NICOSIA BEER FEST Constanza Moat, Nicosia, September 10 – 14, 2014 (www.visitnicosia.com.cy) A widely popular event in the capital city, which aims to attract locals and tourists alike.
SEPTEMBER 2014