Ever since 1980, the major growth sector in Cyprus has been the Tourism industry. This is because the government has always paid special attention to the tourism business since Cyprus gained its independence from the British in 1960. It is estimated that Cyprus plays host country to over 2 million tourists every year. 90% of this comes from Europe. Cyprus earns about $1.9 billion in foreign exchange through the tourist business. This is 20% of the GDP. The accommodation services in Cyprus account for ver 85,000 beds in establishments ranging from five star hotels to apartments, villas, and rented houses located on the coastline or in the mountains.
As of today there are over 600 tourist establishments working in Cyprus. This does not include the 445 licensed travel agents working out of 160 branches, 2940 licensed entertainment and catering services, 265 licensed tourist guides, all of which are comprised of the massive Tourism Sector in Cyprus. With over 4 decades of experience, the Cyprus tourism industry is now a mature mechanism that has grown past the teething stage. This means that the tourism sector is well aware of the increasing competition from other locations in the world and is aware of the highly education traveler of today and is taking the necessary steps to make sure that is being done to stay ahead of the game.
At the heart of this initiative is the aim of the government to reposition and redfine the Cyprus image to make it seem more and more a quality tourist destination that will be attractive to the modern traveler who is better educated in terms of the options available. This is why you will find that even the smallest of establishments operating under a tourist license will be offering the highest quality it can.
The best news for any tourist is that Cyprus is one of those few spots on the planet that seemed to be made for other people to visit. Whether it be the pine covered forests, old villages, medieval castles, azure beaches, trekking, skiing, or water-sports. All the year round, Cyprus is always in prime condition to offer something to everyone.
Tourism in Cyprus