Tag: Cyprus

Brides and grooms are seeking more exotic locations to tie the knot these days and with a UK wedding costing an average 20,000, its no wonder that couples are heading overseas for a more affordable and tropical alternative.

According to reports destination weddings in 2012 are on the increase and popular spots for romantic nuptials include the Caribbean, Mexico, Cyprus, and Greece.

Favourite Caribbean wedding destinations include Jamaica with its luxurious resorts and beautiful beaches and mountains; the Bahamas with its stunning pink sand beaches; and the island of Antigua that has a beach for every day of the year and breathtaking coral reefs.

Aside from the obvious reasons, more couples are choosing destination weddings in 2012 because of the financial benefits. The cost of UK weddings is rising but if couples go abroad to say I Do, they can save themselves a considerable amount of money thanks to all inclusive wedding packages and smaller guest lists.

Caribbean weddings, for example, cost an average 6,000 and brides and grooms are be able to enjoy tailor-made packages, beachfront accommodation, intimate ceremonies and even a free honeymoon.

Caribbean hotels and resorts offer experienced wedding coordinators and advisors who are on hand to arrange all of the details, from the marriage licence and officiant, to the photographer, music, wedding cake and flowers.

Mexico is also a popular destination, with the Mexican Caribbean being the most coveted spot for weddings and Cancun weddings being among the favourites due to the areas spectacular natural scenery. There are many luxury hotels and resorts in Cancun to choose from and after the wedding celebrations, couples can continue their own with a romantic honeymoon in Cancun where they can go scuba diving, visit the ancient archaeological sites, hike through lush rainforests, or relax on pristine beaches.

Many couples getting married abroad in 2012 are also choosing Mediterranean islands such as Cyprus and Greece. Both of these countries offer beautiful landscapes, an array of deluxe hotels and resorts, cultural delights, and romantic settings for ceremonies, such as cliff-side vows, romantic I dos in quaint chapels or nuptials at sunset on a secluded beach.

Recent surveys have revealed that 26 per cent of couples in the UK have chosen weddings abroad in the last five years compared to 20 per cent in the 1990s, and this figure is expected to increase over the next few years.

The Famagusta area of Cyprus covers a large part of the Islands East coast and includes the town of Paralimni. Originally the town of Famagusta itself would have lain at the heart of the district but alas it now lies in total dereliction. In fact it has been labeled a ghost town and not without good reason. In 1974 Turkey invaded Northern Cyprus and Famagusta town was where they halted that invasion. The once proud holiday resort portion of the town now lies partly enclosed within the buffer zone between the North and South. This area is patrolled by a United Nations peace keeping force and the larger part of Famagusta resort is now totally inaccessible. Tourist can however visit the Turkish side of the Island and see for themselves the crumbling ruins of this once prestigious holiday resort.

Close to the border with northern Cyprus is the village of Kapparis which at one time was the last stop on the main coastal road to Famagusta town. Over the years kapparis has grown into a thriving resort with bars, restaurants and supermarkets lining the main street. There has also been huge property development in the resort recently which in turn has led to an influx of holiday home buyers most of who are British. In fact Kapparis has earned itself the nickname “little Britain” in light of the many Brits who have settled there. It is also one of the few holiday resorts on the Islands West coast that stays open all year round. So if you love genuine fish and chips or a Chinese take away Kapparis is the ideal place to take your Cyprus holidays.

About two miles down the road is one of Famagusta’s gems, a sleepy little holiday resort called Pernera which nestles against the coast just below a small hill. You would be surprised how many people don’t even know that it’s there and pass straight by on the main road. The resort has plenty of great places to eat and it really is a great family resort. It’s got plenty to offer without being too brash which is probably why those who have discovered it return year after year. The safe sandy bays are perfect for bathing and the clear blue Mediterranean waters make them great for snorkeling. Most of the bars provide evening entertainment and there are some real nice restaurants that won’t charge you the earth either. If you are in the mood for finger food the Southern fried chicken is worth a visit and there’s even a pizza hut too.

Right next door to Pernera is her big sister Protaras with it’s long strip and huge beach. There are literally hundreds of bars and restaurants on the resort making it ideal for those who prefer a lively holiday. A visit to the fig tree bay area is highly recommended especially if you enjoy all kinds of water sports such as paracending and water skiing. You can even hire a powerboat by the hour and take to the high seas yourself. The choice of places to eat is nothing short of bewildering with just about every kind of cuisine on offer somewhere including the obligatory Macdonalds. The resort is modern and clean with everything you need in one place making it an ideal family resort.

Twenty minutes drive away is the largest resort in the Famagusta area, Agia Napa the party capital of Cyprus. If you want night life then Agia Napa is the place to be. It’s not just about partying until dawn though because the resort is also great for families and the beaches are magnificent. There’s a bustling harbor too that’s shared by modern pleasure cruisers and traditional fishing boats. If you turn up there early enough you could even buy some sea fresh fish for your dinner. The town itself has plenty to offer in the way of shops and restaurants of every kind. If you are feeling adventurous there is the famous Nissi beach area with it’s bungie jump crane and a whole lot more besides. Don’t forget that Agia Napa also boast one of the best water parks in Europe too where you can scare yourself witless on the giant water slides.

With some great resorts and the main town of Paralimni the Famagusta area of Cyprus has something for everyone. If you fancy a spot of retail therapy Paralimni town is a great place to shop with plenty of boutiques and even a Marks and Spencers. Afterwards you can relax in one of the trendy cafe bars dotted around the pretty town square or quench your thirst with a cool beer in one of the many tavernas. There are several large supermarkets that sell everything from tea bags to furniture and much more besides. Look out for the bakeries that are springing up all over the place. They are open 24 hours and sell all those essential items like bread and milk plus some calorie laden goodies for those with a sweet tooth. Enjoy your holidays and enjoy visiting the Famagusta area of Cyprus.

Kevin Moore lives half the year in Cyprus and writes regular articles about all things Cyprus including holidays and Cyprus property purchase. Check out his web site Cyprus Info Here