The resorts of Cyprus have long become home for many Russian tourists. Guests from the east had time to try out a variety of hotels and places of rest, located on the very coast or in the depths of the island, in large cities and modest villages. Now it is easy for them to answer the question which is better, Larnaca or Paphos. Let's try and figure out what is behind the famous Cypriot resorts, what level of relaxation they offer, and how they will delight new guests who have reached the blessed shores of Cyprus.
Larnaca or Paphos - where are the cooler beaches?
Since Larnaca is not considered a cult resort in Cyprus, there is no reason to expect any special impressions from its beaches. On the other hand, many of them have the so-called Blue Flags, which testifies to the cleanliness of the beach areas and the sea, thoughtfulness, and the organization of safe recreation for tourists.
All places are equipped, even those that are located at some distance from the center of resort life. Rest by the sea is free, you can use your own umbrellas and sun loungers, or rent for a nominal fee. What is important, the territory is not so large, especially in comparison with other Cypriot resorts, but there are beaches targeted at different categories of vacationers: "Finikoudes" - children's beach; “Yanates” - for snorkelling lovers; "Faros" - for a quiet family vacation; "Mackenzie" - for active, fun-loving youth.
Everyone can choose a beach according to their interests in Larnaca and the surrounding area. Paphos in the list of Cypriot cities lacks stars from the sky, but it does not lag behind, it is a typical resort, with all the trappings of a good, high-quality vacation. The hotel range is represented by hotels, hotels, complexes with different levels of star rating.
The beaches of Paphos are sandy and rocky, in some places the shores are rocky, which makes it difficult to enter the sea. One of the best beaches in the resort is located in Coral Bay, the second adored by tourists is located in Lara Bay. It is also distinguished by the fact that there is a nature reserve nearby, the main inhabitants of which are sea green turtles.
Diving in the resorts of Cyprus
Larnaca, according to Cypriot concepts, is considered a relatively small resort, while on its territory you can find 7 diving training centers and schools. Most of them aim to show tourists the main underwater treasure Zenobia, a cargo ferry that sank over 40 years ago. Over the decades, the ship has turned into a beautiful artificial reef, which has become a home for hundreds of seabed dwellers and representatives of underwater fauna.
Ferry diving is not for beginners as it is quite challenging. But, if you try, you can go through several levels of training, get certificates and still see a fantastic underwater spectacle.
Paphos in terms of diving is in no way inferior to Larnaca, there are a sufficient number of various diving centers, where scuba diving training starts from scratch. Those with little experience can take courses and receive certificates of the next level. In addition to training, local divers offer many points for assimilating theory into practice. Near the coast, you can find many beautiful and interesting underwater corners.
Shopping in the resorts of Cyprus
Small in size Larnaca has prepared excellent shopping for its guests; there are several streets for buying souvenirs, gifts, fashionable clothes, jewelry. Popular souvenirs are handmade ceramics, silver items, author's, but not very expensive. In the neighboring village of Lefkara, skilled craftswomen live, weaving exquisite linen lace, however, such beauty costs a lot of money.
Souvenirs in Paphos, in principle, are the same as in all other resorts in Cyprus. From edible tasty gifts to relatives, tourists prefer to buy olive oil, olives themselves, Cypriot wines, including the island's brand - the dessert wine "Commandaria". Among the "inedible" souvenirs, one can note models of ships and sailing ships, dolls in national Cypriot clothes, silver and lace. The statuette of the beautiful goddess Aphrodite is called the most "authentic" gift, since it appeared from the foam of the sea off the coast of Paphos.
The most primitive comparison of the two Cypriot resorts allows you to see the similarities and differences.
Larnaca will be chosen by those tourists who:
- you need a quiet rest, away from people;
- do not find fault with the color of the sand too much, but they are scrupulous about its purity;
- dream of seeing the main underwater object of Cyprus and love diving;
- love silver jewelry, handicrafts.
The famous Cyprus resort of Paphos is suitable for travelers who:
- dream of a classic quality vacation;
- they love not quite ordinary beach landscapes, do not be afraid to swim near the rocks;
- ready to learn diving skills and explore the depths of the sea;
- are not going to leave the island without delicious souvenirs and a bottle of dessert wine.
