Cyprus is an island nation in the Mediterranean and the Southeasternmost member of the European Union (EU). Although it is indisputably European, its closest neighbors geographically are Turkey (the Anatolian peninsula is only 50 nautical miles north), Syria, Lebanon, and Egypt. Due to its unique status, it sits at the crossroads of Europe and Western Asia.

It is also one of the most ethnically diverse states in Europe, home to Cypriots of Greek, Turkish, Armenian, Maronite, and Latin origin. Although the ethnic Greek population forms an overwhelming majority – over 78% of the island – the cultural contributions of minority groups are evident, whether it’s the local folklore, cuisine, or customs.

Greek Blue Dome Church Agios Nikolaos In Protaras Town, Facing The Eastern Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus, Southern Europe

As a tourist destination, Cyprus boasts a scenic Mediterranean coastline, untouched nature, and a fascinating History. From Ayia Napa, in the East, to Paphos out West, it offers a plethora of sandy beaches, heavenly turquoise-water bays, and marine parks, all interspersed with quaint fishing villages and lively urban developments.

During the health crisis, international arrivals dropped to a historical low of 663,000, a 79.57% decline from 2019. Similarly to other EU member states, the Republic of Cyprus enacted some of the strictest anti-tourism measures in their attempt to keep Covid variants from being imported, including banning entry to most non-EU nationals.

For tourism purposes, there are only two official entry points into the Republic of Cyprus: the airports in Larnaca (LCA) and Paphos (PFO). The third airport, Ercan (ECN), is controlled by TRNC authorities. Foreigners landing first in Ercan will be denied entry to the Republic of Cyprus when attempting to cross from North to South.