Limassol
WHY LIMASSOL?
Limassol, or to give it its correct name, Lemesos is like other towns on the southern coast that were refashioned by the building boom of the late 1970s following the invasion of Cyprus in 1974.
Limassol was required to replace Famagusta as the islands main port and take on most of the tourist trade; Limassol has now outgrown its original limits and is now the nation's second biggest city after Nicosia.
In addition to a healthy tourist market Limassol has been an important commercial centre for companies from all over the world who wish to base their operations here. Its geographical location and generous tax breaks continue to attract many industries. As a result you will meet people from almost every nation here, making this a truly cosmopolitan city. Limassol has year around activity for both tourists and the local population, it has such variety of choice for everyone and the numbers of different restaurants offering food from all over the world make for some interesting eating experiences.
Night life is available year around and safety in the streets unsurpassed; crime rate is just 6% of that in the UK). Cultural life is rich and many events are organised by the town's Municipality every month Those wishing to make Limassol their permanent home have ample opportunity to work here and a choice of eight International schools teaching the English Curriculum up to A-Level are available, so it is not just for those wishing to retire, Limassol is establishing itself as a choice of destination for the young too.
The Old town has a fantastic choice of restaurants and tavernas tucked away in its narrow streets and slowly many of the old buildings are being restored to their former glory and opening as more "trendy" cafes and bars. There is a thriving café society as Limassolians in their droves go to the old town and city centre to socialise.
A major project for the tourist industry in Limassol is the completion of the coastal road improvements. Now nearing completion the promenade stretches for 3kms with a safe walkway adjacent to the beach and a dedicated cycle path, add to this the leisurely walk through the shady Dasoudi woods and the walkway from the tourist area out towards the ancient Amathous area and Limassol can boast over 10kms of promenade, ideal for those who wish to take a walk or cycle, with many excellent beaches and beachside tavernas, fish restaurants and hotels on route it is unique. The impressive Curium beach is only a 15 minute drive away and Lady's mile just ten minutes. The Limassol region is spoiled for choices when it comes to beaches!
Summer sports, sea activities and cruises are readily available. The shops are numerous and well stocked with many designer shops and boutiques in the city centre. Medical care is excellent, and its cinemas are screening films simultaneously with the cinemas of Europe and the USA. The variety of restaurants, tavernas, cafeterias and bars is great. The Cyprus "meze" is the food specialty of the town.
Situated in a strategic position, Limassol is located in the centre of the island and is an ideal base for exploring the rest of Cyprus. Its residents benefit from being the same distance from both of the airports on the island and in close proximity to the remaining cities in Cyprus. Nicosia, Pafos, Famagusta and the Troodos region are all only about an hour or less away.
Entry of Cyprus into the European Union and the resolution of the long standing Cyprus problem are further indicators of the worth added to property - property prices are expected to rise much higher.
Villages and Troodos
Surrounding Limassol are dozens of villages that offer a quieter retreat from the bustle of the city, and those higher up towards Troodos are cooler during the summer months.
Just a short drive north of Limassol and you will arrive at Lania, the artists village, where amongst its narrow cobbled streets you will find some charming buildings with carved wooden doors and courtyards, you will also be able to look around some of the small galleries. A little closer to Limassol are the villages of Apsiou and Apesia where you can still buy a traditional village house at reasonable prices. If these are too quite for you then the larger village of Pano Platres may suit you, with architecture that seems to blend in with the natural surroundings, this mountain resort was once the destination for Kings and Governors. It has several good hotels and the nearby fisheries ensure a good supply of fresh trout.
To the west of Limassol there are three areas worth exploring where prices are lower and it is easy to commute into Limassol if you need to. Kolossi is growing in popularity as are the villages of Erimi and Episkopi. All are close to ancient Curium and just a short distance to the beautiful Curium beach. Further out and heading north you will find the quieter villages of Vouni and Pachna which offer a much quieter way of life. Positioned in between Limassol and Pafos is the picturesque village of Pissouri which seems to offer everything one is looking for, it is at a high enough altitude to avoid the humidity in the summer and having spectacular views out towards Episkopi Bay. A short drive brings you to Pissouri Bay and a small tourist area of tavernas restaurants and bars.
To the east of Limassol there are several villages of note and well worth considering. Just on the outskirts of the city you will find Yermasoyia a beautiful village close by the large Yermasoyia Dam and just a five minute drive from the heart of Limassol. Further out you will find Agios Tychonas, Parakklesia and Pyrgos, all very popular with foreigners looking to buy property as a permanent residence or holiday home, these offer the village lifestyle with the attractions of Limassol within easy reach. Another five minutes out and you will find Moni and Monagroulli, again, excellent villages for those looking to invest in property and only a five minute drive to the closest beaches.
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