Location

Situated in the Eastern Mediterranean, the island of Cyprus enjoys warm, dry summers. During WIT conferences in May, daytime air and sea temperatures should be warm with cooler evenings. Inland, the Troodos Mountains provide a backdrop to pretty, traditional villages and on the coast, lively towns offer museums, archaeological sites, Cypriot architecture and shopping. Cyprus is popular for its coastline and good weather and has excellent beaches including Phinikoudes, popular for its long beach with many cafes and restaurants along the waterfront, and Kapparis beach, a more secluded and unspoilt sandy beach. Cyprus is easily accessible by car or bus, and the short distance from one end of the island to the other makes it easy to visit Cyprus’ many attractions.

 Places to visit

Limassol Lemsos

Close to the conference venue at the St Raphael Resort, Limassol is the second largest town on Cyprus and offers historical sites, sandy beaches and a bustling town centre, popular with shoppers, within a short distance of one another. Nearby, the medieval Kolossi castle and archaeological site of Kourion offer spectacular views of the coast and a wealth of historic remains. The narrow streets of the old town contain traditional buildings and small shops, especially along St Andrews Street. The town also hosts a famous annual wine festival, popular with both locals and visitors to the island.

Paphos Pafos

The stunning architecture and well-preserved archaeological remains in Paphos led to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Attractions include the town’s harbour and Venetian castle, renowned ancient Greek mosaics, numerous Byzantine churches which can be found to the UNESCO World Heritage list and the Paphos Odeon, a Greco-Roman theatre with outdoor performances throughout the summer. Close to Paphos, the quaint town of Polis and traditional fishing village of Latsi overlook the clear waters of Chrysochous Bay, and are popular with visitors to the traditional waterfront tavernas, and the nearby Baths of Aphrodite (The island of Cyprus was renown in Greek mythology as the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite).

Nicosia Lefkosia

The capital city and administrative centre of the Republic of Cyprus, Nicosia was originally fortified with impressive walls and gates, most of which remain today, as does much of the towns traditional Ottoman architecture. In addition, there are many museums dedicated to the islands history.

Larnaca

The area around Larnaca is scattered with interesting sites and places to visit. These include Choirokitia - Cyprus’ oldest Neolithic settlement, Stavrovouni Monastery, Larnaca Salt Lake and the commended Larnaca District Archaeological Museum which contains many examples of traditional Mediterranean artwork.

Protaras

East of Larnaca, the area of Protaras is popular for its expansive beaches, with small islands dotted along the coastline. The remains of the Greco-Roman city of Lefkolla and Byzantine church of Profitis Ilias, carved into red limestone cliffs, offer views of the coastline.