Some people think that Cyprus is a nice and idyllic little island in the Mediterranean Sea. While this might be correct for some parts of Cyprus, the island has certainly entered the 21st century with a bang. Believe me, I did some research on Cyprus, especially since I am getting married quite soon (I know exciting times!). It’s a great place for people who are in a relationship, looking for a relationship, getting married, or already married (or people who just want to let their hair down!).
Cyprus is not the largest island, but it has many different facets. An area in Cyprus has drawn attention, especially from party people, in recent years. Ayia Napa, a resort in the southeast of the island. For years, very popular as a family destination, it has slowly but surely attracted younger tourists, who want to relax on the sandy beaches during the day (getting over their hangovers) and have fun during the long nights.
Yes, Ibiza ‘eats your heart’! Ayia Napas is catching up and has, for now, established a relatively stable party scene.
Party Scene – One of the main indicators that Ayia Napa is becoming a well-established party spot is the growing club scene. The list of clubs is getting longer, and their reputation comes to light. One of the main clubs in Ayia Napa (not to be missed) is the “Castle Club”. It is not only the biggest club in Ayia Napa, but also in the whole of Cyprus. The club nearly recreates itself every year (which keeps people coming back for more each time) and offers a great night out for all. And if I say “any” I mean it, because it has 3 music rooms (each with a different style), an outdoor terrace, a VIP lounge and a total of 14 bars with 9 DJ’s. Other famous clubs include “black and white”, which is just an R&B club, “Club Ice”, famous for its club nights, such as Twice as Nice and Foam Parties (very popular with good British tourists).
Also, if you haven’t had enough of dancing, drinking and general flirting after a night out in the clubs above, there is always “Club Aqua”, a very popular club for those ‘really’ late nights! Girls don’t worry about staying late in Ayia Napa, it counts as a very safe place to be. Interestingly, although alcohol flows strongly in clubs, bars and anywhere in the city, people still seem to behave and stick to general etiquette.
Once you wake up (with a really, really bad hangover), you can stagger over to Nissi Beach, where the fun continues, with great bars and blaring music. Or you could just stretch out on the sand for a bit, listen to your iPod, and try to get some sun and regenerate for the next wave of late-night action. For sports enthusiasts (or anyone who wants to look really sexy on a jet ski, if that’s possible) there are plenty of water sports facilities on Nissi Beach. As a general rule, it could be said that the party never stops in Ayia Napa.
Prices: Okay, honestly, if you’re looking for cheap fun, Ayia Napa can’t keep up with Ibiza prices. However, in recent years the competition between bars and clubs has grown significantly, which means a price war in drink prices. Nights out can still end up being more expensive than a night out in the old UK. But I suppose, for 340 days of sunshine, sandy beaches and some of the best clubs in Europe, you’ll be happy to pay the extra penny. And who knows, with more tourists arriving on the island each year, the competition will grow, which could push prices even higher.
The other point that might be a bit more expensive is that it is almost double the travel time from the UK to Cyprus (4hrs 30mins) compared to the UK to Ibiza (2hrs 30mins). Flights can be a bit more expensive, but you may always be able to get a cheap flight from Easy Jet or Ryanair. The travel time also means it might not be suitable for a short weekend trip – you’ll need to have at least one extended weekend for it to really count.
Accommodation: If you are one of the families who are brave and crazy about Ayia Napa parties, because of the amazing beaches, local cuisine and sunshine, but don’t really want to get in touch with the partygoers (or their hangovers), then a villa might be just the thing for you. There are countless villas in Cyprus with swimming pools, allowing you to spend your vacation in privacy and enjoy a dip in the water in plenty of sunshine.
Villas are also great for young people looking to party (sorry families!) – “Why” are you asking? This is because most villas sleep a minimum of four people and are charged weekly. This means that it could be cheaper than booking in one of the Hotels or Resorts. Therefore, less money spent on accommodation equals more money for booze and parties. Also, if you had enough partying at those clubs, you could have a private pool party at your villa!
If you’re thinking of a party holiday this summer, I’d definitely say Ayia Napa should be on your list (even if you’re a huge Ibiza fan!). Start your investigation!