Cyprus Welcomes Visitors Despite The World’s Omicron Spread
According to operator Hermes Airports on Sunday, despite the widespread, global cancelations of international flights, operations at Larnaca and Paphos airports in Cyprus continued as normal. It has recently been reported that around 6,300 flights were canceled by airlines around the world over the Christmas weekend, due to concerns over the spread of the Omicron variant. On top of this, many airline staff, including pilots, was currently in quarantine.
No cancellations in Cyprus
So far, the wave of flight cancelations has not affected Cyprus or passenger traffic, according to CNA. There have been no cancellations as yet and no delays in flights to and from Larnaca and Paphos airports over Christmas.
In fact, CNA reports that there has been a huge rise of 253.4 percent recorded among Cypriots traveling overseas in November 2021.
Why should you visit Cyprus?
Besides the fact that airports and flights are operating normally in Cyprus, what makes this island nation a good choice for a vacation? For one thing, the island is surrounded by gorgeous beaches, but Cyprus is far more than just a sun and sand destination.
The south and north of the island are split between two different communities, making it a unique destination for cultural trips. However, while different, the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot societies are also incredibly similar. Both have a strong belief in traditional family life, along with a rich history in both food cultures and folk customs. Wherever you travel in Cyprus, you will find the same warm Cypriot hospitality.
The climate of Cyprus
Cyprus enjoys a warm, Mediterranean climate with beaches suitable for everyone. Visitors can choose from packed, family-friendly spots, or wilder, less-traveled beaches, along with every possible water sport to enjoy. Whether you like scuba diving or snorkeling, surfing, kite surfing or windsurfing, this is the ideal location.
However, the interior of the island, with its meadows and valleys of wildflowers and vineyards, or pine-clad mountains, is perfect for hiking and biking. In winter, there is even an opportunity for skiing.
Explore the rich history of Cyprus
Cyprus has a rich historic past, where evidence can be found of Neolithic dwellings, Phoenician and Bronze Age tombs, Roman mosaics and the remains of formerly powerful city kingdoms. The island also boasts castles perched on mountain tops and Byzantine churches with beautiful frescoes, throughout the island’s landscapes.
Meanwhile, a visit to the beautiful cities of Cyprus reveals the architecture of the Lusignan, Venetian and Ottoman periods. However, there is still plenty of choice for anyone seeking retail therapy or looking for a delicious Cypriot meal.
Dining in Cyprus
Spain may have its tapas, but Cyprus offers meze, a similar taste trend to help introduce visitors to the local cuisine. The restaurants serve a feast of small dishes, offering creamy hummus, afelia (pork cooked in red wine), kebabs, and much, much more.
Cuisine in Cyprus has been heavily influenced by Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern food cultures, making for a delicious blend, including the favorite sheftalia kebabs, Turkish haloumi, or grilled sausages encased in caul fat.
As for the desserts, always make sure you leave some room for the delicious sweet treats, flavored with rose water, almonds and pistachios, as well as wonderfully sticky baklava and warming and delicious rice puddings.
Can you travel to Cyprus right now?
US travelers should bear in mind that the State Department has issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Cyprus. However, this is only a recommendation and if travelers are fully vaccinated, travel is reasonably safe.
According to the US Embassy in Cyprus, all airline passengers aged two years or older, regardless of their vaccination status, must provide a negative COVID-19 viral test taken within one calendar day of travel.
Reportedly, both the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus have varying restrictions to help curb the spread of the virus. You can check out details here on the government website.
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