Rabia Mayet | rabiamayet@radioislam.co.za

13 December 2025

5-minute read

With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Cyprus is one of Europe’s sunniest destinations in the Mediterranean, drawing in visitors with its stunning beaches and romantic coves, as well as medieval castles, Neolithic sites, and ancient Greek ruins. It is also home to numerous mountains with breathtaking views and seasonal adventures, including winter sports. Head anywhere in Cyprus and discover the warm hospitality, famous coffee culture, and fascinating landmarks. One of the most important things to know before visiting Cyprus is that the island is divided into two parts: the Greek Cypriot-controlled south (The Republic of Cyprus) and the Turkish Cypriot-controlled north (Northern Cyprus), and amazingly each part uses its own currency. Unusually, unlike most of Europe, Cyprus doesn’t drive on the right side of the road.

Batool, a South African living in Amsterdam, mentioned that it is best to enter via Southern Cyprus with a Schengen visa or a Cyprus National visa attainable on the SS website or the Cypriot website.

The nicest time of the year to visit the island is from Spring to early summer, around April to June, when it is not too hot and crowded like it usually is in the summer holidays. With a public transport system that is not as developed or reliable as the rest of Europe, navigating public transport can be difficult if you’re not a local, so Batool suggested hiring a car in Southern Cyprus.

Some of the must-see attractions and sightseeing spots in Cyprus Batool recommended are Turkish Nicosia where one can find souvenirs in one of the many markets and visit the historic masjid. While some beaches are stony with lots of shells, Blue Flag beaches are the cleanest and the top choice to enjoy the day at. The beaches at Limassol boast all-inclusive and resorts, Artemis is a perfect swimming beach and Larnaca has a splendid beach promenade and off the coast of Larnaca is one of the most popular diving spots in the world.  , and “The best beaches are at the bottom of the cliffs,” said Batool, so for an added adventure, you can hike down to one, like the remote Zapallo Bay. In Ayia Napa, there are caves that can be explored by guided boat rides where you can also swim in the calm bay. For those interested in history, the UNESCO Heritage Site of Paphos showcases ancient historical sites. The Akamas Peninsula in the North offers stunning views and boasts the Kyrenia Castle, as well as Paphos. Highly recommended are the mountain villages in Southern Cyprus that have a lot of historical ruins and monasteries, and Lefkara Village in Northern Cyprus that holds the tomb of the famous Sufi Sheikh Nazim.

From acceptable to excellent, there are a range of accommodation options in Cyprus, from budget bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels and resorts. However, Batool warns travellers to be wary of “places that seem too ideal in terms of prices” as many people have had unpleasant experiences at such places.

An unusual feature of the island is the rare species of sheep that is only found there. Descended from the wild Asian sheep introduced by the prehistoric Cypriots around 9000-8000 BC, the Cypriot mouflon, can be seen only in this country and nowhere else in the world.

Cyprus has been a significant site in Islamic history since the 7th century, serving as a strategic Mediterranean frontier between Byzantine and Arab forces before its conquest by the Ottoman Empire. During the 649 expedition, Umm Haram, a close companion of the Prophet Muhammad SAW, died near modern-day Larnaca. She was buried there, and her shrine, the Hala Sultan Tekke, remains a major Islamic site. The Ottoman influence is still strong on the island with a presence of Islam in Cyprus. Halal food options are very easily available, especially in Northern Cyprus, and both regions have a variety of masaajid in the cities. While there are not many masaajid in the mountain villages, almost all the coastal areas have visible Muslim places of worship. There is an abundance of fresh produce, seafood and cheeses like the famous Halloumi cheese on the island.

Listen to teh full interview with Ml Ibrahim Daya, Ml Muhammad Kara and Sister Batool here.