A little overview of Rome

As Italians would say, all roads end in Rome. We would say that all the roads start in Rome as well, and one would better put comfortable shoes on if visiting. Rome is all about everything wonderful, from delicious cuisine, history and tradition, a great nightlife to stunning art and fashion.

All by yourself in Rome? If so then you will notice that Italians are nothing like the characters in Godfather movie, but rather they are friendly, fun and, let’s admit it, beautiful. A family trip to Rome or a solo trip can be both educational and entertaining. Romance is all around and if you’re with the loved one, be prepared for extra butterflies in your stomach.
The history of Rome began three thousand years ago, but archeologists discovered 13,000 year old traces of civilization. Rome’s tumultuous and legendary history gave birth to some of the most beautiful monuments and pieces of art. The Pantheon, or the temple of all gods, is the oldest best preserved building in the world. Its architecture has been a source of inspiration for monuments all around the world.
And speaking of large buildings, you wouldn’t want to miss the Colosseum. This was the largest amphitheatre in ancient Rome, with a capacity of 50, 000 people. Here is where the legendary gladiator fights took place. Romans are also known for their amazing public baths and systems of canalization. Visiting a public bath, such as The Bath of Diocletian, was a social “must do” as one could bath, have a massage, eat, relax in hot water or have a cold bath, not to mention enjoy the ancient equivalent of a jacuzzi.
The baths were divided by social status; this is the place where great historical decisions were taken and where the latest rumors around town were being spread. Circus Maximus (Latin for large arena) is where celebrations took place and games were played. Although some of the ancient monuments are not perfectly conserved, they could make one feel like they’re living in another era. The death of Roman Empire seems to be a legend. From this perspective, it’s interesting to take a look at The Catacombs of Rome. Since the Romans believed in life after death, cremating was out of the question. The Catacombs were underground burial places, an ingenuous solution to celebrate eternity. 
When traveling anywhere in Italy you cannot miss, simply cannot miss the Vatican: the smallest independent state in the world, the capital of Catholic Church and the Pope’s residence. A collection of beautiful museums, basilicas, monuments and paintings by Boticelli, Michelangelo or Benini will delight all your senses.
Since sightseeing is exhausting, make sure you eat well, and there is no way not to eat well in Rome. Italian food is fabulous, and good food can only come along with good wine. A typical roman meal begins with bruschetta (full of garlic), followed by the eternal Italian pasta. Be sure not to miss spaghetti alla carbonara, bucatini all’amatriciana, bucatini cacio e pepe or gnocchi alla romana. Rome is the home of the pizza as well, so it would be a pity not to try it since you are already there. You can also freshen up with  “grattachecca,” the typical Roman crushed-ice drink.
Wine cellars are widespread and so are the market places, such as Campo Dei Fiori. Historical café shops are combining traditional drinks with modern technology; famous café’s to be seen are Caffè Greco, Babington’s Tearooms, Caffè Rosati and Caffè Canova.
Rome is full of seasonal events; it’s most prestigious arts festival, RomaEuropa, runs from September to November and features music, dance and theatre with an ethnic edge.
At Christmas and Easter, pilgrims flood into the Vatican to attend Papal masses in St Peter’s square. Yet there are other various religious events around the town. On 9 March, for example, devout drivers head to the church of Santa Francesca Roma in the Foro Romano to have their cars blessed on behalf of this saint, who was said to have the gift of bilocation (being in two places at once).
Spring arrives early in Rome, bringing masses of blooms. Azaleas are praised; when they bloom (end of march), 3, 000 vases of them are arranged in Spanish Steps. Shopping is a “must have” in Italy, the capital of fashion. And naturally there are fashion boulevards: Via Condotti, Via Borgognona, Piazza di Spagna and Via Frattina.
Last, but not least, the nightlife! Young Italians meet in Campo Dei Fiori, then gather in numerous bars around the square. Rome is also an endless recourse of nightclubs, some of which are extremely popular: Gilda, Goa, Ex Magazinni. We recommend Black Out Rock Club for live music fans. 
Of course, Rome wasn’t built in a day. And, at the end of any day, there’s still something new to be discovered. There’s just something about Rome.

Read Greek Islands Tips to Help Make Your Vacation More Enjoyable

It is always more exciting to spend the holidays in a destination where the sun is shining most times of the year. In this kind of location you have no reason to worry about raging storms or endless snowfall. Your dishes are not limited to traditional holiday turkey or muffins. Plus, you will not get stuck with games that are really boring. When you travel to another country or to an island destination, there is an endless list of fun activities that you can engage in. You can go swimming, strolling, join water sports, or visit museums. The nightlife is entirely different with the fact that you are interacting with a new group of people.

 

There are thousands of magnificent locations that you can travel to whenever you feel like taking a break. Perhaps one of the most breathtaking is Greece, which is composed of exotic islands and rich history. It has high mountains, hillsides that are full of olive groves, green forests, ancient cities, modern towns, and pristine beaches. The Greek Islands exude a sense of serenity and beauty that is rarely found in other tourist destinations. But the tranquility of the islands in the morning does not mean that its nightlife is equally still. The evening life of Greece is active, with hundreds of nightclubs located all throughout the Greek Islands. If you want to know where to find the most active nightlife, you can check out Greek Islands tips.

 

There are many sources from where you can get Greek Islands tips. You can find these in travel magazines and brochures. There are a lot of sites over the web that provides travel tips and guides. One of these websites is Hellasclub, which is an online travel guide for people that are interested in a Greek island getaway. Aside from Greek Islands tips, you can also find hotel information for the Greek Islands at Hellasclub. This kind of info is very beneficial, especially with your search for an accommodation within the country.

 

Greece is using the Euro, a currency unit that is used by several European countries. You can obtain this currency at any bank within the country. Make sure that you have your dollars exchanged with Euro, when you travel to Greece. Airports, some hotels, travel agencies, and railroad stations may also provide currency exchange services. Other Greek Islands tips include visiting the country at the perfect month of the year, and traffic rules. The greatest months to travel to Greece is from May to October. During these months, the temperature can range from 21 degrees Celsius to 33 degrees Celsius. Like the traffic rule of other European countries, you have to drive on the road’s right-hand side. What is more, the wearing of safety belts is required.

 

If you want to submit hotel information for the Greek Islands, you can do this at Hellasclub. The website encourages entrepreneurs to add their business online. If you have something to talk about regarding the Greek island that you are living at or you want to send images, you can also submit these at Hellasclub. Other than pictures and articles, you can also send Greek Islands tips.

 

Enjoy Your Cheap Holiday Deals To Florence

Cheap holiday deals to Florence are going to include some nice accommodations in some of the finest hotels in the area. You are going to experience the culture, see the heritage and view some of the finest artworks. No one can leave Florence without experiencing some of the fantastic nightlife as well. The area is populated with fun and exciting people who are friendly and invite you to some fine entertaining areas around Florence. Beside the nightlife, you will enjoy the historical sites, restaurants, shopping and of course, the beautiful weather that Florence is known for all year long.

The San Miniato al Monte is a sight everyone needs to see. It is a breathtaking view of beauty. The architecture of this building is just amazing and it has managed to hold up well for the years. It is a must see when you plan you cheap holiday deals to Florence. Then there is the museum and palace called Giardino di Boboli. The gardens are beautiful and leave you in awe before you even enter the palace. Another place to visit is the Battistero. The dome is amazing, as is the entire building. You will enjoy your time visiting this sight in Florence.

Cheap holiday deals to Florence and beautiful sight is what makes your vacation special. The Giardino Torrigiani gardens are breathtaking. The tour is something everyone enjoys. It is a nice relaxing time because you see so many beautiful colors and smell so many different scents. At the Campanile di Giotto, you have four different levels to see the area. You can see different levels of the city as you work you way to the top. Florence is a truly magnificent place to spend your vacation. If you are into more about the history, you will find the museums very intriguing.

If your cheap holiday deals to Florence include getting married, you have to think about the Vincigliata. Vincigliata is a place where many people go to say their vows, then honeymoon in the area and enjoy the sights. If you would like to see where Michelangelo is buried, you can visit the Museo dell’Opera di Santa Croce. You have to remember this is a catholic church and you have to be quiet when you enter. This is a place everyone looks forward to seeing when they visit Florence. You are going to enjoy your time spent in the beautiful city in Italy.

Many people go to Florence because it is a larger city with more attractions and things to do. You can easily spend a couple of weeks here if you find the best cheap holiday deals to Florence. The restaurants serve only the best cuisine and you can find many places to enjoy a real Italian pizza. You will find the nightlife enjoyable with dancing, music and live entertainment. Everyone treats you with open arms and the people are always willing to help you if you need anything. You will enjoy a trip to Florence and want to return many times.

Carnival – the "fun Ships" of the Cruising Industry

Why Carnival is termed the ‘Fun Ships’ of the cruising industry? Here are the special features of carnival that make Carnival truly special and a cut above the rest.

• Carnival cuisine is full of wonderful choices. Breakfast, lunch or dinner all the popular items are available in Carnival. Carnival offers casual dining and fine dining. It also offers reservations-only supper club and spa menu. Carnival cuisine is supported by 24-hour stateroom service. Midnight buffet, European style-café and sushi bar are the added attractions of Carnival cuisine.

• Carnival cruise presents its passengers an amazing Array of fun filled activities. Once you are on board you will really be excited to find the great ways that Carnival offers to spend your days at the sea. Carnival’s daytime activities include meet and greet at the atrium, meet friends in the lounges, take a gamble at the casino, relax at Carnival spa, tour the art gallery and shop at the Carnival fun shops. At Carnival Internet café you are in constant touch with the happenings.

• Nightlife at Carnival is fantastic and fabulous. Casinos at Carnival are the lucky attractions of Carnival nightlife. Carnival has an interesting list of casinos, games and tournaments to choose from. You can select your favorite game from its tempting list that includes slot machines, black jack, roulette, craps and Texas Holdem. Carnival presents Mega Cash, the world’s largest cruise ship jackpot. Poker tournaments of Carnival are yet another interesting way to spend your nights at sea.

• Carnival spa is a fantastic way to relax. All your stress just sails away here. Carnival spa includes everything from soothing massages to loofah treatments. Carnival spa offers all the effective ways-massages, body wraps, facial treatments, loofah treatments, steam rooms, water therapies and thermal suites-to relax your body and mind and bring peace to your soul. At carnival spa you can rejuvenate yourself with hot stones and aromatherapy. Get refreshed with defoliants. With all these attractive alternatives you will simply love the Carnival Spa.

• Carnival pays special attention to the kids’ ages 2-11. Carnival makes sure that the young have their own space at the ship and it offers a whole lot of interesting ways to keep them engaged and entertained. Games, crayons, paint and pool – Carnival has everything that kids love. Kids would just love the board games, reading and story time, finger painting, dance parties, talent shows, music and game consoles available at Carnival. Even outdoor fun activities are there for the young kids. Carnival offers babysitting services as well during the night so that you can enjoy your nightlife at Carnival thoroughly.

Adult or young, one will find Carnival a fun place to sail along. From Casinos for the adults to engaging Camp for the kids Carnival has surefire ways to fill one’s time with fun, fun and more fun. Carnival is truly worthy to be termed “the fun ships” of the cruising industry.

Chris De La Rosa and his family are avid cruisers who can be found on some of the biggest and most glamorous cruise ships sailing the Caribbean seas.To learn more about Carnival, Fun ships, please visit CruiseCrownPrincess.com. Where you get access to various crusie videos, pictures and reviews.

Top 10 Beaches in Tenerife

Tenerife is a Spanish island located on the Atlantic side of Spain, and is the largest of island in the Canary Island chain. Tourism is the number one industry and millions visit Tenerife each year. It is a favorite with Europeans with the UK and Germany leading the pack, and Switzerland, Austria, France, Italy, and all of Scandinavia following.

Tenerife is known for its fantastic beaches; the following are the 10 best beaches in Tenerife.

Torviscas and Fañabé

These two beaches actually join together to become one. They are connected by a long promenade that runs along a beautiful azure beach. Located along the coast of Costa Adeje these two beaches have relatively calm waters and are great for families on vacation.

El Bullullo (La Orotava)

This is a clean, very nice man-made beach that is located east of Puerto de la Cruz. There is a nice place to get drinks here and the waves are great.

Playa San Marcos

This beach is located west of Puerto de la Cruz and is a small fishing village. This is a black sand beach that is usually peaceful without many people during the weekdays. Weekends tend to be a little crowded. Apartment and Condo rentals are available and there is a full compliment of tourist services.

Playa Del Roque (Taganana)

This is a dark sand beach with beautiful clear waters and is a favorite of sun worshipers, surfers, and photographers.

Playa del Médano

This is perhaps the longest, natural sandy beach in Tenerife. There are many good fish restaurants here because this used to be a fishing village. The windsurfing here is great and the waters are usually fairly calm making this a great spot for families with young children.

Las Galletas

This is a charming fishing town that has quaint little inlets that have beaches very kind to beginning surfers. Having been a favorite of Jacques Cousteau and his son for diving, Las Galletas offers a wonderful opportunity to do scuba diving.

Torviscas

This is a golden sand artificial beach located on the Adeje Coast. This beach is a favorite and has many tourist activities and services available. A great beach for a vacation, Torviscas has a great nightlife.

Los Cristianos

This is a popular beach located near the southern airport on Tenerife. There is easy access to the nearby AquaPark Octopus and Tenerife Zoo for the kiddies. Offered for the whole family there are fishing excursions, glass bottom boats, and many eateries and pubs. There is also a great nightlife here. A popular choice for Tenerife holidays.

Los Gigantes

Located in west Tenerife, this is a good beach for sunbathing. There is the small town of Cueva del Polva nearby and also nearby are the imposing and famous Los Gigantes cliffs. This is a Blue Flag beach, which meets the highest quality standards in the European/World travel industry.

Las Gaviotas Beach

This last beach in the Top Ten Beaches of Tenerife is not necessarily a family beach. This beach is a nude beach with a section that is also frequented by gay tourists.

The Advantages of Buying an Almeria Spanish Property for Sale

Spain has a lot of regions, one of which is Andalusia. One of the cities in Andalusia is Almeria, which has preserved its Moorish heritage quite well. Almeria is recognized for its natural beauty. This is because the province has been able to preserve its sceneries and amazing environment even with the development of a few modern establishments. Among these are real estate developments that are suitable for individuals that are looking for permanent residences, second homes, or property investments in the country. Spanish property for sale is great for people, who are looking for ways to take full advantage of the diverse opportunities of Almeria. One of the advantages of purchasing a property in the province is the fact that prices are relatively lower, in comparison with the Spanish cities.

 

There are different reasons why you need to buy an Almeria property for sale. Spain, especially in Almeria, is filled with long stretches of beach and sand. When it comes to Almeria, its coast is considered as its greatest asset. This is because thousands of tourists flock to the city each year to soak in the sun and waters of Costa de Almeria. The eastern part of the province presents Cabo de Gata. This is one of the most splendid beaches within Almeria. The best thing about the beaches here is that these are always pristine and quiet.

 

When you want to have the chance to enjoy all the leisure activities in Almeria; purchase a Spanish property for sale. The evenings in the city are entertaining, what with the scatter of music bars, discos, and nightclubs. Almeria club music differs from contemporary music, to the more wholesome family entertainment. Most of the clubs are located within the center of the city. If you want a late-night dinner with your friends, you can check out seafood restaurants and Tapas bars. While you can go clubbing during the night, there are plenty of activities to engage in during the morning. These include shopping for wool or wooden handcrafts, pottery, and going to museums, art galleries, and exhibition rooms. Or else, you can explore the most stunning landmark of the province, which is Alcazaba.

 

One of the most common reasons why there are more and more people purchasing Almeria property for sale. Spain experiences a great weather condition all throughout the year. This goes especially in Almeria, which has long hours of yearly sunshine. The climate of the province is subtropical Mediterranean, with mostly warm and dry days. When it comes to the dishes in Almeria, the locals use spices and olive oil with their foods. Among the most commonly used spices here are garlic, paprika, chili, ginger, and turmeric. The usual dishes are comprised of the “trigo”, which fennel and wheat; meat seasoned with spices; wheat paste; and vegetables and chickpeas.

 

There hundreds more interesting things that you will discover about Almeria. A weekend visit to this beautiful province is not enough to explore all the wonders that it has to offer. In order for you to fully understand and take in the beauty of Almeria, buy a Spanish property for sale. The best method to search for the most appropriate property is online, where there are lots of real estate agencies ready to cater to your needs. There are real estate companies on the Internet that specializes on property sale in Almeria.

 

6 Things Foreign Study Students Should Do When in Buenos Aires

If you’re attending a language school in the city of Buenos Aires, Argentina, congratulations, you have made a great selection for a total immersion foreign language study experience. Buenos Aires is a large modern city of approximately 3 million people and is referred to as the “Paris of South America” for its intimate elegance and European architectural influences. A top destination for foreign study abroad students internationally, Buenos Aires is a city of great sights and once in a lifetime experiences.

Learning about the culture of this beautiful and gracious city is a key part to understanding some of the more intimate nuances present within Argentine Spanish. For the first-time foreign study student, the list of activities and historical sites to see may at first appear overwhelming. The following seven activities will go a long way in ensuring that your first visit to the Capital Federal is a truly fulfilling experience that touches on the best of what Buenos Aires and Argentine culture has to offer.

1. LEARN TO DANCE THE TANGO – Argentina and Buenos Aires are famous as the home of the sultry dance known as the tango. There are tango performances daily in the city, tango-themed restaurants, even private or group tango lessons so you can experience this Latin special folk dance for yourself. Each year on the 11th of December, the city holds its annual Tango day when the roots of the dance are celebrated by residents. The Tango is intimately Buenos Aires and its cadence is worth experiencing during any upcoming visit.

2. VISIT MUSEUMS – Many fine museums are located in the city. The Argentina National Museum of History celebrates the history of Argentina, particularly items related to the May Revolution and to the Argentine War of Independence. The Metropolitan National Cathedral is the main Catholic church in the city, originally constructed in 1753. A separate mausoleum contains the tomb of Jose de San Martin, Argentina’s greatest hero. The National Museum of Fine Arts contains one of the most substantial art collections in the entire continent. Currently on display is the renown 20th Century Latin American Art showcase, the Malba-Costantini Collection.

3. BOTANICAL GARDENS AND ZOO – Containing over 5,500 species of vegetables and almost 70,000 square meters of vegetation designed by French landscape architect Carlos Thays. Several garden styles, including a recreation of the garden of Pliny the Younger, a Japanese Garden and a symmetrical French designed garden are all available for viewing. Nearby Buenos Aires Zoo contains over 2,500 species of animals. The mission statement of the Buenos Aires Zoo is to encourage patrons not only to learn about the specific species represented in the enclave, but to view and understand man’s wider role as a custodian of the environment.

4. DINING & NIGHTLIFE – The Plaza de Mayo is an ideal place to start a restaurant tour of Buenos Aires. Situated among the old trees and architecture of Avendina de May, many bars, coffeehouses and restaurants lie to the west of the plaza waiting to be explored. Dozens of fine restaurants allow for dining equivalent to the ambiance you would see in most European capitols. Among them, the Cabana Las Lilas, a premier Argentine steakhouse located in the neighborhood of Puerto Madero. Their cuisine includes the presence of tender and succulent Argentine beef as well as a variety of native and ethnic dishes available for order. Like Paris, Buenos Aires has a large and thriving nightlife scene. The Casablanca, within the neighborhood of San Telmo, is a great Tango nightspot and should not be missed.

5. VISIT THE OPERA – The Opera house in Buenos Aires, the Teatro Colon, is one of the most famous in the world. The performances by the singers are second to none. Be sure you schedule time to spend an evening viewing one of there performances. The opera house was built in the 1908 after twenty years of construction by famed architect Fancesco Tamburini, and has been providing unparalleled music ever since. The quality of the music and the performances here compare favorably with those from the finest European opera houses.

6. ENJOY AN AFTERNOON OF SPORTS – Argentineans take their sports very seriously. Soccer is a sport played by children and adults alike and by those in every segment of society. While no one pretends to think that playing soccer will teach you the Spanish language, spending a Sunday afternoon with a group of friends playing an impromptu game will certainly give you a better understanding of the culture of Argentina as well as a grasp of the more “flavoral” words that make up the Argentine dialect.

Travel to Buenos Aires is a once in a lifetime event. Good food, intoxicating sights and sounds and a vibrant nightlife are just a few of the many benefits that await the foreign Spanish student in Argentina. With an extremely favorable 3:1 exchange rate between the US Dollar and the Argentine Peso, there has never been a more favorable time for foreign study students to make the trip, what are you waiting for?

Planning a snowboarding trip in Europe

FIRST OF ALL DON’T FORGET THAT YOU NEED TO HAVE A PASSPORT! That is maybe the most important thing when going out of the country.

So want to go out and have a ride of your lifetime? Try Europe. It’s amazing there let me tel you that first hand. They have the most amazing slopes I have ever seen. Many of us love to do the sport and we’re always bound to end up getting bored with the U.S. right? Well I did, so we made a plan. Hence -planning a snowboarding trip in Europe-. We looked all over for the perfect place to visit, and this took forever let me tell you that. Everywhere has great locations to give. So we looked to my favorite place in the world, Europe. Don’t’ why but I am in love with this place.

So we looked and we found tons of places to choose from. Now there are so many places in Europe to choose so I’ll Choose the top three, lets review shall we?

1. Chamonix, France.

This is the most relaxing of them all. You can come here to stay a day, and find yourself here for a lifetime. It’s very casual, and much of the normal life things for the french go on here. Not only is it a boarding resort, But it is a village as well, and pretty normal things go on here. Not to mention the Swiss Alps at your side.

So your back from a long day at the slopes and you can’t wait to eat. Walk down to the restaurants that they have to offer, and hey why not go to the pub as well? They have all the basic nightlife backgrounds here. And this is basically where many seasonal people hang out right?

Lastly, You want the most reliable snow spot? just go north to the Col De Balme. They offer the best snow there, and hey its not to far from where you are staying. So go take a look while your there.

2. St. Moritz, Switzerland

This is “a small splash of the Vegas wildlife with the twist of Paris” as they say. It’s true. It is the beauty of Paris, and it has all the wonderful shows and stops as Vegas. So basically Switzerland has the best riding experience that you can come by. They have some of the most popular riding destinations, and they are always busy.

When you are there they have maybe the most awesome views that someone can ask for let me tell you. They stretch out to the vast horizon, and they keep going. I was in love with the sights.

3. Val Gardena Seva, Italy

Wow. This is the most amazing place ever, and I travel a lot. This is like the most amazing places to find a view. Italy is very fond of that. They have the widest terrain that you can ask for and the possibilities are endless. They have to be the top of my list and then you might have to say the same.

* so when you are looking for a place new to go to, try going out there and seeing more of the world. And hey, you can do what you love at the same time, right?

-Happy Boarding-

Property In Cyprus

ABOUT SOUTHERN CYPRUS

Cyprus is a fiercely divided island, with the Turkish contingent in the North and the Greek contingent in the South. A island of immense natural beauty and history, separated by an official United Nations border patrol, ensuring that there is no repeat of the disastrous battles of years gone by. The island is the third largest in the Mediterranean and has changed hands on numerous occasions over the centuries, with religious tensions at what many believe to be the natural border between Islam and Christianity.

While the South is more developed than the North, there is still a magical mythological feel to the landscape, having been touched by the Romans, Crusaders, Franks, Venetians and other conquerors in the years gone by – all leaving a little of the heritage and architecture. The landscape itself offers a sharp contrast between long golden sandy beaches, and rugged landscape, to the mountainous areas inland, offering something for everybody. Of the main cities, Ayia Napa is perhaps the best know, with beautiful beaches which stretch for miles, clear blue sea and a nightlife which takes in wild partying to a quiet stroll in the evening air. While the summer time is the most popular for the southern shores, the island offers a unique blend of winter sports on the inland mountainous areas. An island where you can be soaking up the sun on a golden sandy beach, and within one hour you can be skiing on the crisp white snow on Mount Olympus.

As the tensions between North and South have calmed in recent years, due in the main to the intervention of the United Nations, the number of visitors has increased substantial with property in Southern Cyprus very much sought after by overseas investors.

PROPERTY MARKET

In a country devoid of any period of stability for many years, it is not surprising to learn that economy has been very volatile to say the least. The country is dependant upon agriculture and government employment however as the area continues to enjoy a rare period of stability with the northern neighbours there is more interest from overseas investors. The mixture of culture, history, architecture and weather is a big attraction and tourism is set to become a major part of the future economy.

As a result of overseas interest, also helped by the recent entry to the European Union (and accompanying development grants) , the Southern Cyprus property market is enjoying its most buoyant period in modern times. Over the last few years we have seen Southern Cyprus properties increase in value by an average of 20% per annum, with further above average growth expected (in comparison to European neighbours). While the growth in property prices cannot continue indefinitely at current rates, it appears that the country is well set for both a period or economic stability and growth in overseas investment.

The country has received substantial interest from the British tourist sector, possibly assisted by the historical presence of the British military in the area for many years. Actual tourism numbers have been growing by 50% per annum over the last few years, and while there will be a slow down at some stage, the trend seems set to continue. This increase in visitor numbers is already having an impact on the price of property for sale in Southern Cyprus, as well as influencing growth in the rental sector.

WHY INVEST IN SOUTHERN CYPRUS?

There are a number of factors which make Southern Cyprus an attractive area to invest into, none more so than the beautiful weather which bodes well for the sun seekers. The area boasts some of the best weather conditions in the Mediterranean with approximately 340 days of sunshine annually.

The government of the island have taken a more proactive approach to attracting inward investment, especially since joining the European Union (in 2004) and the benefits associated with this. There are large fiscal incentives for overseas companies and individuals looking to direct funds to the area, not to mention a more e stable economy than seen in modern times.

The area has become a magnet for international banking and the oil industry, adding further weight to an expanding economy. The authorities have also seen a massive increase in tourism to the area, and are keen to encourage this still further, while attempting to retain as much of the original landscape, architecture and culture as possible. The country is also well positioned geographically, being central to three Continents offering further easy access to foreign visitors.

The average price of property in Southern Cyprus is some way below European counterparts such as the UK and Spain, and all properties made available to overseas investors is off-plan with the relevant permits and permissions pre-agreed. The area also offers a strong sell on market, with premium properties in Southern Cyprus in very short supply.

OUTLOOK

Southern Cyprus has seen an amazing change in fortunes over the last twenty years, highlighted by the potentially lucrative inclusion to the European Union. The World Bank has classed Southern Cyprus in the league of countries showing exceptionally high levels of income. Add in a growing economy (more under control than ever before), a flexible work force, political stability and an infrastructure development program gathering more and more pace and you have the potential for a sustained period of economic improvement.

The tax situation of Southern Cyprus is very amenable to the overseas investor with no capital gains tax laws, low legal fees and an easily accessible flow of finance. While the tourism market has grown substantially over the last few years, it is still relatively under developed compared to European partners. The government have shown an interest in attracting overseas investment, which as well as increasing activity in the economy, is also helping to lift the standard of living for all inhabitants.

The traditional dependence on agriculture for employment is slowly being eroded as the banking, services and tourism sectors continue to expand. As the country grows ever closer links with European partners there is an expectation that recent economic growth will continue.

Hilton Head: Guide to entertainment and nightlife

Still got some energy left after a long day of beachcombing, golfing, touring, and shopping at Hilton Head? Then head for one of these venues for some of the best live entertainment on the island:

Jazz Corner

The Village at Wexford

1000 William Hilton Parkway #C1

(843) 842-8620

www.thejazzcorner.com

If you love good jazz, you’re certain to find something to your taste at Jazz Corner. Whether it’s big band, swing, rhythm and blues, or classic jazz, sooner or later you’ll find it here. Local, regional and national jazz artists perform nightly beginning at 7:30. Order from the eclectic American menu or just enjoy drinks and the show.

Electric Piano

27 Park Plaza

(843) 686-3545

www.myspace.com/electricpiano

From twenty-somethings to fifty-somethings, music lovers flock to this interactive piano bar. Conveniently located in Hilton Head’s “Barmuda Triangle” (a collection of restaurants and bars in the Park Plaza area that are all within walking distance of one another), it’s open Wednesday through Saturday from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM, with live entertainment nightly. The musicians take requests, so bring along your list of favorites. Check out the drink specials on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Metropolitan Lounge

22 Office Park Rd., Suite 5

Park Plaza

(843) 785-VINO (8466)

www.metropolitanlounge.com/

Also located in the Triangle, this sophisticated lounge features an urban/European-style Martini bar with more than 80 wines by the glass as well as a long list of martinis and champagnes. Dance to live music on Friday nights, or just relax by the fireplace with a glass of your favorite beverage and listen to live acoustic music on Sunday nights. The Metropolitan is open seven nights a week beginning at 7:00 PM.

Kingfisher Seafood & Steak House

Shelter Cove Harbour

(843) 842-6400

www.kingfisherseafood.com

If your taste runs to fresh seafood and live jazz, blues, and laid-back keyboard music, look no further. Overlooking Shelter Cover Harbour and Broad Creek, the Kingfisher features live music nightly (except Wednesdays) beginning at 6:30 PM with such artists as Terry Grant & All That Jazz and The Earl Williams Band. Check their Web site for performance schedules.

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