http://www.travelarticlesexpress.com/ Articles at Travel Articles Express en-us http://www.travelarticlesexpress.com/travel/europes-best-water-parks.html http://www.travelarticlesexpress.com/travel/europes-best-water-parks.html Sun, 24 Jan 2010 18:15:17 -0600
1. Fasouri Watermania Water Park, Cyprus: When it comes to family fun in Cyprus, Fasouri Watermania Water Park is a popular spot. The rides and attractions are all created to fall into age-appropriate categories. Some of the more popular rides are the Cross Over Pools, The Black Hole and Extreme Black Hole Slides and the Kamikazi Slide. In 2007, Fasouri Watermania captured the World Travel Awards for being the best water park.

2. Ayia Napa's Water World, Cyprus: Waterworld Waterpark opened its doors to the public in 1996. It is a total family experience where fun is ensured. The attractions are based on ancient Greek mythology. One of the attractions, the Aeolos Whirlwind, will take you to the mystical land of Calypso. Visitors will enjoy testing their skills against the Minotaur in the Minotaur's Labyrinth. This is one of the few water parks in Europe that can boast over 20 awards and certifications.

3. Paphos Aphrodite Water Park, Cyprus: At Paphos, special areas for young children allow parents to enjoy a soak while knowing that their children are safe and having fun. The Family Rafting experience is one for all members of the family. After an exciting trip in a dingy, riders will find themselves deposited into a pool at the end of the ride. Attractions are separated into groups, namely for thrills, for fun and for kids. The island's sunshine and great all year round weather in Cyprus makes going to the water parks great fun in the sun.

4. Aqualand, Costa Adeje, Tenerife: The Tenerife-located Aqualand is reputed to be the best of all the Aqualand Water Parks to be found in Europe. The park's dolphin shows at the dolphinarium are spectacular and enjoyed by all. The water park features the following attractions: the Tornado, the Twister and the Kamikaze. The Mini Park with its Pirate Galleon and Castle are designed for children.

5. Aquasur, Gran Canaria: For the brave at heart and the not so brave, Aquasur water park is the place. The biggest water park on the island, Aquasur has enough rides and entertainment to hold everyone's interest. The thrilling Anaconda slide will delight with its spiraling route. Like most water parks, there is also the heart-stopping, but fun-filled Kamikaze ride.

Three Popular European Holiday Destinations

Some European destinations are particularly appealing to holidaymakers. Three such locations are Cyprus, Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Each island has much more than great climate going for it.

Cyprus is blessed with in excess of 300 days of sunshine yearly. Visitors have beautiful sandy beaches to choose from, including Fig Tree Bay and Ayia Napa. Aside from the beaches, holidaymakers will still find lots to excite them on the island.

A trip to Cyprus is enhanced by visits to the Tomb of the Kings, Kykko Monastery and the Curium Amphitheatre. If possible try to visit to Lefkara, known as the lace village. Here tourists can purchase handmade lace of the finest quality. Golfers are finding Cyprus to be an ideal holiday spot. The island boasts three championship golf courses.

There is no doubting Tenerife's magnetism. An estimated five million tourist go there annually. The unique natural environment and lifeforms add to the island's charm. So special are Tenerife's flora and fauna, almost 50 percent is legally protected.

Gran Canaria also offers much more than sunshine and fantastic beaches. This second largest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is known for its diverse landscape and climate. The interesting mix has led to the island being called a miniature continent. Approximately one-third of Gran Canaria has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

With fantastic water parks and everything else holidaymakers need, the islands are meant for fun. The laid back atmosphere also makes them ideal vacation spots for the retired. ]]> http://www.travelarticlesexpress.com/travel/2010-cyprus-holidays-limassol.html http://www.travelarticlesexpress.com/travel/2010-cyprus-holidays-limassol.html Sun, 29 Nov 2009 23:02:59 -0600
Limassol is the second largest populated city in Cyprus, and the largest in geographical size. Its population of 176,000 is, by many city standards, barely a blip on the radar. But its relatively small population is perhaps its most alluring attribute. It is large enough to be considered an urban destination, but small and close-knit enough to provide a warm welcome to visitors.

Limassol has a great deal to offer the holidaymaker. It is most widely known as a port city. It is, in fact, the biggest port in the Mediterranean trade route. A world class marina is currently in progress, in keeping with Limassol's close ties to the sea, travel and trade. It is hoped that the new marina will attract boating enthusiasts from around Europe. It will be a centre not just for sailing and yachting, but for playing, eating and vacationing as well.

Tourists who don't necessarily appreciate the city's marine history will certainly find other things to do. Limassol is also known for its colourful festivals. The annual Limassol Festival is a ten day affair dating back to ancient paganism. The modern version has lost some of its pagan religious connotations and has become more of a celebration of culture. The event is characterised by colourful costumes, masks and parades. It might be compared to the Mardi Gras festival of New Orleans.

Limassol's other famous festival is the annual Wine Festival. Some of its origins have faded with time, becoming largely a mix of history and lore. Some Cyprus historians regard it as a modern version of lively celebrations of worship for the ancient god of wine, Dionysus. The Wine Festival also pays a nod to Aphrodite, the well known and regarded goddess of love. The Wine Festival of the 21st century embraces appreciation for fine Mediterranean wine. It's also a chance to enjoy merrymaking just for the fun of it.

Visitors to Limassol who prefer sightseeing to revelry can enjoy any number of historical and cultural sites. The city's coastal front is a sight to behold, with tree-lined walkways for a stroll along the ocean. It's dotted with shops and a mix of modern and ancient architectured buildings.

The medieval castle of Limassol dates back to 1000 A.D. It was built during the Byzantine era. The castle now houses a museum full of artefacts. Knowledgeable docents give tourists a full picture of the castle's history and its contribution to ancient society.

Limassol is also home to the Cyprus University of Technology. CUT is a relative newcomer to the city. It was established in 2004, but accepted its first group of students just in the 2007-2008 school year. Its primary focus is trades and technology. Its founders envisioned an institution that would complement the University of Cyprus located in the capital city of Nicosia.

The new university was a much anticipated addition to Limassol. Students have been warmly welcomed by locals. It draws pupils from all over the Mediterranean and even international locations.

Limassol boasts accommodation from four and five star hotels to economy bungalows. Tourists don't necessarily have to break the bank account to enjoy all that Cyprus' prominent port city has to offer, and it's worth having a look on-line to see what you think of Limassol as a possible holiday destination for 2010. ]]> http://www.travelarticlesexpress.com/travel/more-than-just-the-beach-2010-cyprus-holidays.html http://www.travelarticlesexpress.com/travel/more-than-just-the-beach-2010-cyprus-holidays.html Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:44:04 -0500
The beaches tend to attract like groups. For example, Coral Bay is a haven for families. The horse shaped inlet bordered by limestone cliffs is truly the classic sandy beach. With its safe swimming and Blue Flag reputation, parents are quite comfortable watching their children swim and play. Coral Bay offers lots of water sports and family friendly activities. Younger children can enjoy the inflatables while their older siblings revel in the diving and water skiing activities.

Further down the shore, about a mile east of Ayia Napa, Konnos Bay and Cape Greco await those who want a little quieter environment. The sunsets are breathtaking, and the water is astonishingly clear. You won't need snorkeling equipment to see some fascinating sea life, especially the starfish that abound. Cape Greco is studded with sea caves. Any one of the many boat tours are worth the trip for a close up experience. If water sports are your thing, you'll find them all at Konnos Bay and Cape Greco. You can also rent a speedboat to do your own sightseeing. For the more adventuresome, jet skis are also on tap.

In the north, Cyprus has miles of scenic coastline, unspoiled beaches and secluded bays and inlets. The natural beauty of the island and particularly the northern coast is truly breathtaking. With the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean on one side and the peaks of the fabled Five Finger mountains on the other side, it's hard to imagine that tourists will not want to return again and again.

If you are really looking for something off the beaten track, Cyprus may surprise you. While the island has miles and miles of beach around its perimeter, travelling inland brings you to ski country. Yes, snow skiing country. Cyprus' central interior is extremely rugged and mountainous. The Troodor mountain range offers excellent skiing during the winter. But the wonder of Cyprus is that you can snow ski and get in some beach time in the same day. Moreover, the central plains area is one of the last undiscovered travel destinations in the Mediterranean.

For the adventurous tourist the hiking trails winding through the rugged terrain are worth the trip. The rural areas that tour guides generally do not put on their schedule brings visitors in touch with traditional Cypriot life in remote villages along the way. Cyprus, since its earliest history, has been inhabited by Romans, Egyptians, Persians, Venetians, Ottomans and Brits. Each of them imparted cultural values that remain a part of the island today. Cultural artefacts from these civilizations can be found throughout the island. Castles and abbey ruins among other things are found particularly in the north. It is this diversity that fascinates tourists and makes Cyprus such an attractive destination.

Biking sarafis are also a popular event for the whole family. Like hiking trails, bike trails take tourists along some fairly wild countryside, though it is not at all dangerous. It is a fabulous way for visitors to enjoy the stunning scenery along the way.

Cyprus can also be a mecca for food lovers who are willing to venture from the more touristy establishments. Cyprus cuisine is heavily influenced by Turkish cuisine, but the type and variety of food offerings appeal to all palates. European, Mediterranean and international cuisine can be found throughout the island. Prices tend to be extremely reasonable compared to prices in other places. Vacationers often rave about the bargains that are available. This applies to lodgings as well as food.

If you have already been on holiday to Cyprus look out for cheap Cyprus flights - you may want to return to see everything you missed the first time around. If you have not yet made Cyprus a holiday destination, put it on your list of places to go. You won't be sorry. Whether you are looking for a family excursion or an out of the way place with more adventurous possibilities, you'll surely find it in Cyprus for a 2010 holiday. ]]> http://www.travelarticlesexpress.com/travel/holidaymakers-say-no-to-hotels-in-cyprus.html http://www.travelarticlesexpress.com/travel/holidaymakers-say-no-to-hotels-in-cyprus.html Sun, 16 Aug 2009 04:28:42 -0500
In fact statistics indicate that less than half - only 48 per cent - of visitors to Cyprus actually stay in hotels. Information from the Cyprus Statistical Service reveals that less than half the tourists stayed in 5-star hotels or any other grade hotel.

Alternative Accommodation in Cyprus

Some popular rooming options for visitors to the country include the following:

o Staying with relatives and friends: Some holidaymakers opt to stay with friends or relatives while visiting Cyprus. There are many benefits from going this route apart from the monetary savings. Friends and relatives have an ear to what's happening in Cyprus and help make a holiday more memorable. And after booking flights to Cyprus a friend picking you up is a lot cheaper than a taxi!

Splitting the cost of food and even transportation makes this a popular cost-saving method for the thrifty vacationer. Guests can offer to reciprocate so that the host can stay with them when they go on holiday.

o Apartments: These can be self-contained, or hired help comes along with the rental. They generally cost less than hotels. If apartments are rented by a group, everyone pays less.

o House swapping: This involves swapping houses, whether residential or vacation homes, with others in various countries or regions. This is normally free, and guests only cover food and small incidentals. Finding people to swap houses with is possible through word-of-mouth or websites dedicated to this.

o Self-catering villas: Tourists can save money by staying at villas if they are willing to take care of their own needs. Since visitors do not have anyone cooking for them, the cost of these villas and apartments is much less than traditional hotels.

With the recession hitting the USA and affecting almost every corner of the globe, people are looking at cutting costs. Vacations to other countries have taken a downward turn especially in the US. Savvy tourists have turned to cheaper accommodation to make their holidays happen.

The list of alternative and cheaper accommodation above offers some of the options available to tourists - they are attractive alternatives because, unlike hotels, they typically don't increase rates based on number of occupants.

One popular way of cutting costs while holidaying in Cyprus and elsewhere is to share villas and hotel rooms with friends. This results in significant savings as the cost of everything is divided among the guests. These kinds of arrangements work well with close family members, friends or college students. Motor homes as vacation accommodation are also beginning to find favour.

Most of the alternatives to hotels allow tourists to prepare their own meals. By preparing their own meals, tourists will realise substantial savings as well. The decision to prepare meals instead of eating at a hotel is even more important with larger groups.

With these kinds of cost saving methods, tourists will find that their major expense is just the airfare.

Travelling and enjoying your holiday without spending a lot is possible as long as research is done to find the right accommodation. Normally, the hotel is the most expensive component of any holiday. If this cost can be controlled by finding cheaper or free accommodation, holidays are possible even during an economic downturn lasting a couple of years. ]]> http://www.travelarticlesexpress.com/travel/recession-to-hit-summer-cyprus-holidays.html http://www.travelarticlesexpress.com/travel/recession-to-hit-summer-cyprus-holidays.html Wed, 27 May 2009 18:40:15 -0500
And it's disappointing news for the hotels and Cyprus tourist related businesses that have developed over the years to make holidays in Cyprus so popular, and with many businesses assuming continued popularity it could mean some facing closure, or laying some staff off for the 2009 season.

Official figures show that Cyprus started the year off as it is set to continue in 2009 - poorly. A 7 per cent drop in tourist arrivals compared to the previous January.

The biggest drop in holidaymakers was from the traditionally good source of the UK - down over 8 per cent, reflecting the anxiety in the UK over their economy and the reluctance of many consumers to buy big ticket items like cars and holidays just after Christmas at a time of economic uncertainty.

But Cyprus will remain one of the most popular holiday destinations for British holidaymakers this year, unless the Euro strengthens even further against the pound over the summer months and stops people booking last minute Cyprus holidays, and go outside the Eurozone or maybe even take a holiday at home.

But what will new visitors to Cyprus find when they arrive, apart of course from the superb Cyprus weather?

Cyprus has long been known as an excellent destination for holidaymakers. Her golf courses are renowned in Europe as first class, and its beaches are too for those who prefer their holidays in Cyprus to be more beach based than sport.

Cyprus is currently home to three golf courses, with plans to create some more. The Aphrodite Hills Golf Club is a short drive from the Paphos-Limassol motorway and overlooks the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite. The Secret Valley Golf Club is also located near the birthplace of Aphrodite, Petra tou Romiou. The valley's beautifully landscaped gardens help bring out the beauty of the natural rock formations. The Tsada Golf Club is on the grounds of a magnificent 12th century monastery near Tsada village.

For younger tourists taking their first flights to Cyprus Ayia Napa with its famous club scene is a magnet. About a mile east of Ayia Napa, Konnos Bay and Cape Greco await those who want a little quieter environment. The sunsets are breathtaking, and the water is astonishingly clear. You won't need snorkeling equipment to see some fascinating sea life, especially the starfish that abound. Cape Greco is has many sea caves. Any one of the many boat tours are worth the trip for a close up experience. If water sports are your thing, you'll find them all at Konnos Bay and Cape Greco. You can also rent a speedboat to do your own sightseeing. For the more adventurous, jet skis are also available.

For those who want to see some of traditional Cyprus, the hiking trails winding through the rugged terrain are worth the trip. The rural areas that tour guides generally do not put on their schedule brings visitors in touch with traditional Cypriot life in remote villages along the way. Cyprus, since its earliest history, has been inhabited by Romans, Egyptians, Persians, Venetians, Ottomans and Brits. Each of them imparted cultural values that remain a part of the island today. Cultural artifacts from these civilizations can be found throughout the island. Castles and abbey ruins among other things are found particularly in the north. It is this diversity that fascinates tourists and makes Cyprus such an attractive destination, along with the Cyprus weather.

But whatever the reason for visiting Cyprus, with less people visiting, the welcome you receive this year might be even warmer than usual from her people. ]]>