Protaras: The Jewel of Cyprus' East Coast

• HelloΓειά σας
  [Yia sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;
  [Milate Agglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!ΥΓΕΙΑ!
  [Yeia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε έναν γιατρό!
  [Kaleste enan giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eimai arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Voreite na meiosete tin timi?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (deka)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyefma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dyo]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Επτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 9Εννέα
  [Ennea]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένας/η...
  [Pou ine enas/i...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Voreite na mou deksete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για ....)
  [Ena isitirio (ya ....)]

Protaras, located on the eastern coast of Cyprus, is believed to have been settled since ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited during the Late Bronze Age. The proximity to the ancient city of Salamis indicates that Protaras may have played a role in the trade and cultural exchanges that flourished in the region.

During the Byzantine period, Protaras was part of the greater district of Famagusta. The presence of several ancient churches, such as the Church of Profitis Elias, points to the religious and cultural significance of the area. In the medieval era, Protaras came under the influence of the Frankish Kingdom of Cyprus, which left its mark on the architecture and local customs.

The Ottoman Empire took control of Cyprus in 1571, leading to significant changes in the administration and social structure of the region. Protaras, like much of Cyprus, experienced a period of relative isolation and decline. However, the local population adapted to the new rulers by integrating aspects of Ottoman culture and governance into their daily lives.

In 1878, Cyprus was leased to the British Empire, marking the beginning of a new era for Protaras. Under British rule, the area saw infrastructure improvements, such as the construction of roads and communication lines. The British also promoted the development of tourism, recognizing the natural beauty and potential of Protaras' coastline.

The modern development of Protaras as a tourist destination began in the late 20th century. The region transformed from a quiet, agricultural community into a bustling resort town. With its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, Protaras quickly became one of the most popular destinations in Cyprus for both local and international visitors.

Protaras is known for its rich cultural traditions and vibrant festivals. The annual Protaras Summer Film Festival and the local celebrations of Easter and the Kataklysmos (Festival of the Flood) are highlights that attract visitors from around the world. These events showcase the unique blend of ancient customs and modern influences that define Protaras' cultural identity.

Protaras is located on the eastern coast of Cyprus, approximately 68 kilometers from Larnaca International Airport. The easiest way to reach Protaras is by flying into Larnaca Airport, which is well-connected with major cities across Europe and the Middle East. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use shuttle services to reach Protaras. The drive takes about an hour.

Protaras is a compact town, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, public buses are available and connect Protaras with other towns and cities in Cyprus. Taxis are also widely available and relatively affordable. If you prefer more flexibility, car rental services are plentiful, allowing you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Bicycles and scooters are popular options for getting around town.

The official currency of Cyprus is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout Protaras, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. Currency exchange services can be found in banks and exchange bureaus.

Protaras is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the European emergency number. Protaras has medical facilities and pharmacies where you can access healthcare services and medications. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The local police station is available to assist with any security concerns.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing in public places. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A simple 'Yia sou' (Hello) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Cypriot dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Protaras like a local, visit the local markets and tavernas where you can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Cypriot cuisine. Engage with locals, who are known for their hospitality and warmth. Don’t miss out on exploring the stunning beaches and hidden coves. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to the famous sea caves and the Blue Lagoon. Also, attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the local culture.