Page 21 - ACTAdirectorynew

CYPRUS
a major tourist centre
Special interest tourism
Cyprus has shown remarkable flexibility and adaptability in meeting the changing pattern of the shift from passive to active tourism and successfully competes for special interest tourism, for scholars who come to see and study archaeological treasures, or to look into rare species of flora and fauna or study the unique features of the geology of the island. Special routes for cyclists in the hilly areas have been made enhancing the field of pastimes and options.
Sports Tourism
Due to its excellent climate conditions Cyprus is ideal for sports tourism and for hosting soccer teams, athletes of field and track events and others for training and exercise. This latter aspect operates most succesfully in connection with practising of athletes from various countries for international and regional events. Strategic plans are promoted which will further improve facilities for sports tourism including a number of golf courses for which there is lively interest from golfers all over the world.
Cruises
The cruise business is now an important segment of the Cyprus tourist product adding significantly to its enrichment and diversification. The island is becoming more popular as springboard for tourists who wish to cruise and visit neighbouring countries like Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Israel and Greece.
Outgoing Tourism
Cypriots are frequent travellers mainly to Europe and other nearer destinations, while the last few years have witnessed a growing tra c to destinations to the Far East, as well as to the Americas. Growing popularity by the locals is also noted for excursions on cruise ships in the mediterranean, which also serve foreign visitors to the island. Cypriots are among the top travellers of the Mediterrannean.
19