Enriching cultural experiences may not be the first thing we look for when exploring new destinations – but attitudes towards exactly what we do want when travelling are rapidly evolving. Over-crowded tourist hotspots and attractions are no longer going to be able to operate in the levels they used to. Sightseeing will always be a part of any leisure trip, but when we do this through the eyes of a local, we can avoid long queues and find lesser-seen destinations.
Book to stay in one of our self catering villas and go around on your pace! Should you choose to explore coves and sunbath every day or choose to drive along the sandy – rocky coastline? All at your vacation schedule. Your spring, summer, autumn and winter escape awaits!
Spending time in one location and really exploring it requires a bit more planning, but the rewards are also amplified. Many people have holidays, so it’s easy to see why longer breaks will be on the agenda.
Look at it this way, how many locals are you likely to meet in popular tourist attractions during peak season? The answer is relatively few, if any at all.
When you give yourself more time in a new place, you can avoid the crowds, too. Why not explore Nicosia at a leisurely pace, for example, and head to higher ground in the outskirts of the city, instead of rushing straight into the centre? You’ll still get a view of the Laiki Gitonia; without other tourists bugging to take pictures of them posing here and there around the old town. Those in the know will be able to pick out the perfect spot, and thankfully in the age of online communication, you can find these spots too.
Locals will also know when to visit popular landmarks if those are still on your agenda. We’ve seen pictures of empty landmarks; it is still possible to find quiet times to visit attractions. Another way of making the most of your time away is by taking advantage of slow travel.
Road trips have always been a popular way of seeing destinations at your own pace. You get to pick out the specific places you want to visit, even if they are a bit further away from wherever you set up your base. Again, an invaluable resource will be the insider knowledge of someone who drives these routes every day. Locals will also have had additional time to find even more hidden gems during lockdown restrictions due to coronavirus – with domestic travel being the only way most people have been able to get away from it all.
Cities near and outside the main districts as well as villages are hidden treasures for the connection with the historical and cultural heritage of the island! Visit the Politiko village just 15 minutes from Nicosia to explore the Tamassos archaeological site. Cypriot hospitality would be found in communication of the inhabitants to you like a “kopiaste” (=your welcome) with coffee and handmade sweets, made of local fruits;
Venturing beyond city centres also has a financial benefit for everyone. Travellers already know that prices are significantly cheaper away from tourist hotspots, and local shops and markets will be able to offer you local produce that is unique to the area.
Ultimately the biggest upside is the sheer fun and excitement of embracing new experiences and creating lifelong memories. We all know travel is a feel good activity when done right – doing it the local way is even better.
Choose your accommodation with Cyprus villas 4 all and stroll around the island at your pace.
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