Welcome to Cyprus
“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Cyprus.”
Those are some of the words you're likely to hear as your plane descends on this island paradise in the Mediterranean Sea. Looking out your window at the glorious blue sky and crystal clear water, you'll see the runway fast approaching and you'll think you're landing in Eden.
Well...it's not Eden, but it's about as close as you can get.
Cyprus is the third-largest of the Mediterranean islands, located west of Syria, and one of the area's hottest tourist destinations. With its near perfect weather and breathtaking views, it’s no wonder why. More than 2 million visitors grace the island annually. That makes it the 40th most popular destination worldwide.
The island nation has two airports, Larnaca to the south and Paphos to the west. A third airport, known as Ercan, sits in the northern section of the island still governed by Turkey. Though tourists tend to not use Ercan, it is beginning to gain some popularity with tourists arriving from cities in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
By far the most popular of the airports is Larnaca. But should you chose Paphos instead you'll experience a smaller airport with only two terminals, serviced by Cyprus Airways, Air Holland, and Aeroflot, among others. This smaller airport offers a less hectic experience while still leaving you within driving distance of the islands sights and sounds.
Car hire Paphos airport is readily available through several rental agencies. Argus Carhire, Sixt, Holiday Autos, and 121 car hire all have a presence at the airport. Arrangements can be made through your travel agent or the individual agency of your choice.
With car keys in hand you'll be off to explore the splendour that is Cyprus. Drive to the coast to see the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, known as Aphrodite's Rock. Take a picnic lunch and make an afternoon of it, enjoying the warm sunshine and refreshing water.
There are dozens of museums, historical sites, restaurants, cultural exhibits, and miles and miles of coastline for you to explore. There are day trips as well, like the Vouni Panayia Winery, quietly nestled in the hills outside of town. This is a working winery owned and run by a local family. The grounds include the winery, a restaurant, and the cellars stocked full with hundreds of thousands of bottles.
Venture away from Paphos and head south to Larnaca. Perhaps a day or two driving the southern coast of the island, visiting all the towns and villages along the way. Just make sure you get your car hire from the Paphos airport back on time. You wouldn't want to be stuck paying for another day.