Prior to the 1960s, Benidorm was a small village. Today it stands out for its hotel industry, beaches and skyscrapers, built as a result of its tourist-oriented economy. Now it is one of the most important holiday resorts in Spain. Due to the unique skyline formed by its numerous tall hotels and apartment buildings it is sometimes referred to as the “Manhattan of Spain” or “Beniyork”, which is unlike any other on the Costa Blanca (White Coast). According to the Urban Age project, Benidorm has the most high-rise buildings per capita in the world. Benidorm is surrounded by one of the most impressive mountains of the Costa Blanca, the 1406 m tall Puig Campana.

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Cyprus is an ideal place for sport lovers. In winter you can both ski in the mountains of Troodos and also swim in the waves of the sea. There are golf courses, tennis courts and you can enjoy plenty of water sports here.

Cyprus coast by Anton S.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 into two independent parts – the northern Turkish and Southern Greek, the boundary leads even through the center of the capital city of Lefkosia (Nicosia). Reserve at least one day for a visit to the Turkish part of Cyprus – architecture buffs will appreciate the Gothic cathedral converted into mosque.

If you would have the opportunity to attend famous local outdoor wedding with a reception, often involving the whole village, breaking the pomegranate – a symbol of fertility, singing and dancing until dawn.

Cyprus has lots of archaeological sites and an enormous number of monuments from the times of biblical apostles Paul and Barnabas, Romans, Ottomans, Crusaders. You should try easy hiking into the Troodos mountains and Akamas gorge.

Cyprus also boasts several UNESCO Heritage sites, such as Paphos, Troodos Churches with wall paintings and Chirokoitia.

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