Cyprus remains one of the most popular destinations on the Lebanese tourists’ wish lists. According to the latest figures released by the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO), Lebanese arrivals to Cyprus grew 34 per cent in 2010 compared to 2009, with 20.664 tourists making it to the island last year as compared to 15,431 in 2009. Further, analysis of the figures showed the average length of stay of a typical Lebanese tourist is 4.2 days and average spending is €526 (AED 2,800).

With its reputation as a sunny all-weather Mediterranean island already firmly established, Cyprus is now revitalising its product in the wake of major tourism investments, propelling the country into a new era of prosperity. Known as Aphrodite’s island of love, Cyprus has been experiencing steady increases in tourist numbers throughout its peak six-month period of May to October.

Cyprus’ fabled beaches are legendary among sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts. Recently, they were voted among the world’s best by Trip Advisor – the reputed travel website. According to the CTO, Ayia Napa’s beaches were ranked first and Protara’s beaches third among all the beaches of Europe.

Last year saw some 258,000 tourists flocking to the Mediterranean island in May, marking an increase of 4.7 per cent over the same month in the previous year. Likewise, June experienced a 5.5 per cent increase with 275,300 tourists reaching the island.

Speaking on Cyprus’ attractions for tourists, Vassilis Theocharides, Director Cyprus Tourism Organisation CTO, Middle East, commented: “Cyprus can be summed up as a short-haul destination from most parts of the wider Middle East, which not only offers fantastic beaches, stunning nature, culture and history but is also very safe and welcoming. We have noticed a marked increase in incentive trips to Cyprus from the Middle East and India.

“This is due to the competitive off-season rates that Cyprus hotels are offering and the high level of professional DMC’s in Cyprus. We also noticed a growing popular trend for ‘marriage tourism’ from Lebanon, where conducting civil marriages in Cyprus is becoming increasingly popular,” Theocharides added.