Proudly LGBTQ+ Experts and Welcoming to All Travelers
Cyprus is a destination that seamlessly blends fascinating history with breathtaking landscapes, making it a perennial favorite for travelers seeking a unique mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure. This captivating island’s journey through time has shaped its modern identity, adding layers of richness to its appeal.
Here at Out Of Office, we truly understand the world you live in, and the world you want to explore. Our attention to detail, exceptional service and deep understanding of both luxury travel and LGBTQ+ travel make us a fantastic choice for those looking for a travel experience where exclusivity meets inclusivity.
Why is Cyprus a popular luxury travel destination?
Granted independence from Britain in 1960, Cyprus carries a poignant history, marked by the ongoing division between its Turkish minority and Greek Cypriot majority. The events of 1974, when Turkish forces took control of around a third of the island, led to its division, a characteristic that remains today. Despite these complexities, Cyprus is a beacon of cultural unity, offering visitors a chance to experience a dual narrative, reflected in its architecture, traditions, and cuisines.
For travelers, Cyprus is much more than its history. Its Mediterranean climate ensures year-round sunshine, perfect for enjoying its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Beyond the coast, Cyprus boasts dramatic mountain ranges, verdant vineyards, and ancient ruins, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Tombs of the Kings and Paphos Archaeological Park. Nature enthusiasts will revel in exploring the Troodos Mountains, with their hiking trails and Byzantine monasteries.
Culinary delights are another of Cyprus’s irresistible attractions. The island’s fusion of Greek and Turkish influences results in a gastronomic paradise, with dishes such as halloumi cheese, mezze platters, and freshly caught seafood taking center stage. Pair these flavors with local wines, produced from vineyards that date back to ancient times.
For those seeking a vibrant yet tranquil getaway, Cyprus is an ideal choice. Whether you’re soaking up the sun in Ayia Napa, uncovering historical treasures in Nicosia, or indulging in the luxurious spas of Limassol, this destination offers an experience tailored to every kind of traveler. With its warm hospitality, rich traditions, and diverse landscapes, Cyprus is truly a land of endless discovery.
Travel Information for Cyprus
General Information
Many cultural and culinary traditions have influenced Cyprus. It’s the native home of halloumi and the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite. It’s also a major wine producing island. There are many historical buildings to explore, such as the 12th century BC temple honouring Aphrodite, Byzantine churches and remnants of the Venetian empire.
The Greeks began to arrive in Cyprus in around 1200 BC. Spectacular burial sites indicate that a sophisticated civilisation had emerged on the island by the late Iron Age. Cyprus is, needless to say, a big draw for history buffs. It’s also a great place in unwind the sun, eat great food and admire the dramatic landscapes.
Wine lovers will do well here. It’s a major wine producing area. You can explore the vineyards and attend wine tasting sessions. When you’re ready to explore the nightlife you’ll find plenty of places to go – there are even a couple of gay bars.
Cyprus LGBTQ+ Rights
Cyprus has made notable progress in LGBTQ+ rights over the past decade, aligning with broader European trends towards equality. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1998, and in 2015, Cyprus introduced civil unions, granting same-sex couples many of the rights afforded to married heterosexual couples. However, same-sex marriage and adoption rights for LGBTQ+ individuals remain unavailable, reflecting ongoing gaps in full equality.
Anti-discrimination protections are robust, covering sexual orientation and gender identity in areas such as employment, education, and public services. However, societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals can vary significantly across the island, with urban areas like Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca generally being more accepting than rural regions, where traditional values still dominate.
Cyprus is home to a small but active LGBTQ+ community, with advocacy groups such as ACCEPT – LGBT Cyprus working to promote awareness, challenge stigma, and advocate for further legal reforms. Events like the annual Cyprus Pride Parade in Nicosia are growing in size and visibility, reflecting increased societal acceptance and support.
For LGBTQ+ travelers, Cyprus offers a mix of historic sites, stunning Mediterranean beaches, and a growing selection of queer-friendly spaces, particularly in its larger cities. While progress is ongoing, the island’s legal advancements and developing LGBTQ+ scene make it an increasingly appealing destination for queer visitors.
What Everyone Does In Cyprus
Explore Cyprus’ capital city, Nicosia. Check out the Cyprus Museum, the Selimie Cami mosque and the Ledras shopping district.
What Some People Do In Cyprus
Visit Kato Paphos Archaeological Park. It was inhabited from prehistoric times until the Middle Ages. You’ll find a diverse array of ancient Greek and Roman ruins – including Roman villas the intact mosaic floors.
What No One Else Does In Cyprus
Take a trip to The Shipwreck Museum and see the only preserved ship from the ancient Greek world, the Kyrenia Ship. It sank in around 300 BC, during the lifetime of Alexander The Great.
Getting to Cyprus
You can get direct flights to Cyprus year round from most major European cities. As Cyprus is only an island there are less direct flights. Travellers from the Americas will need to fly to a European capital to get a connecting flight to Cyprus.