Travel Smart, Save Big! Your Ultimate Budget Travel Guide To Cyprus

The Cradle Of Modern Civilisation

Across the Top 10 Middle Eastern countries with the exception of Cyprus (a largely Christian) country, the Adhan rings out across the city, first thing in the morning from around 4.30 AM. The Adhan, is a melodic beacon calling the faithful to prayer. Its haunting beauty pierces the stillness of the dawn or the cacophony of urban life in the Middle East, reminding all who hear it of a higher purpose. As the muezzin's voice soars from the minaret, carrying ancient Arabic phrases, time seems to slow to a glacial pace. The call begins with the stirring declaration "Allahu Akbar" - God is the Greatest. These words float on the air, touching the hearts of believers and piquing the curiosity of travellers and explorers in the region. The Adhan's cadence rises and falls, its phrases a spiritual lifeline connecting the past to the present and earthly realm to the divine.

For Muslims in the Middle East and elsewhere, this sonorous invitation to worship is a moment of reflection amidst daily chaos typical of cities like Cairo. It's a musical reminder of their faith, punctuating the day with pauses for spiritual connection. To non-Muslim ears, it's an evocative soundtrack of diverse communities, an audible representation of cultural richness in our shared spaces. As the final notes fade, a hush descends. The faithful turn towards Mecca, ready to heed this timeless call to prayer, while the rest of the world continues its relentless pace, touched for a moment by something transcendent.

With the Adhan in the background, imagine wandering through the bustling souks of Marrakech, savouring the rich flavours of Lebanese mezze, and marvelling at the ancient ruins of Petra—all without breaking the bank. The Middle-East, a region steeped in history and culture, offers an array of experiences that can be enjoyed on a budget. But how can you make the most of your trip without emptying your wallet? This guide will show you how to explore the Middle-East’s treasures affordably, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

Top 10 Middle-East Destinations

1. Egypt

2. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

3. Morocco

4. Tunisia

5. Jordan

6. Bahrain

7. Oman

8. Iran

9. Lebanon

10. Cyprus

Find Cheap Flights to the Egypt - CLICK HERE

• Compare and Book Early: Use flight comparison websites to find the best deals on cheap flights. Booking your flight at least two months in advance can save you a significant amount.

• Flexible Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, you can often find cheaper flights. Mid-week flights tend to be less expensive than weekend ones.

• Off-Peak Travel: Traveling during the off-peak season (March to April and October to November) can result in cheaper airline tickets and fewer crowds.

Budget Hotels and Holiday Lets - CLICK HERE

• Affordable Stays: Look for budget-friendly accommodations like Holiday Inn & Suites Al Jubail and Coral Jubail Hotel. These offer comfortable stays without the hefty price tag.

• Holiday Rentals: Rental websites provide a range of options from cozy apartments to spacious villas. Staying in a holiday rental can also save you money on meals if you opt for self-catering.

Cheap Car Rentals - CLICK HERE

• Comparison Shopping: Comparison websites allow you to compare prices from various car rental companies. Look for deals that include insurance and unlimited mileage.

• Economy Cars: Opt for smaller, economy cars which are cheaper to rent and more fuel-efficient.

• Book in Advance: Just like flights, booking your car rental in advance can secure you the best rates.

Eat Out Like A Local

• Local Eateries: Enjoy authentic Middle-Eastern cuisine at local spots like Hashem in Amman or Allo Beirut in Dubai. These places offer delicious meals at a fraction of the cost of touristy restaurants.

• Street Food: Don’t miss out on the region’s famous street food. Try falafel, shawarma, and manakeesh from local vendors.

• Daily Specials: Many restaurants offer daily specials or set menus that provide great value for money.

Places of Interest

• Petra, Jordan: An ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, a must-see for any visitor.

• Dubai, UAE: Explore the modern marvels of Burj Khalifa and the traditional markets of Deira.

• Cairo, Egypt: Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum.

• Istanbul, Turkey: A city that straddles two continents, rich in history and culture.

• Beirut, Lebanon: Known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine.

The Best Time to Visit?

• Off-Peak Season: March to April and October to November are the best times to visit if you’re looking to save money. The weather is still pleasant, and you’ll find fewer tourists and lower prices on flights and accommodations.

• Peak Season: December to February offers the best weather but comes with higher prices and larger crowds. If you plan to visit during this time, book well in advance to secure the best deals.

Taking Taxis From Airport Arrivals

• For your personal safety, it is recommended to proceed to the airport’s taxi rank for a transfer to your destination. Taxis at the airport’s rank are typically authorized or licensed by the airport and carry insurance cover for passenger safety during transit. It’s important to resist the temptation to accept rides from individuals soliciting inside airport Arrivals, who offers a “cheap” alternative which helps the passenger beat queues at the official airport taxi rank, unless it’s a pre-booked service. Very often, such unsolicited drivers might overcharge you and they may lack proper insurance cover for your protection.

Traveling to the Middle-East on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. By following these tips, you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage, savour its delicious cuisine, and explore its stunning sights and sounds without breaking the bank. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Middle-Eastern adventure!

10. Cyprus

Naturally Beautiful

The earliest human settlements in Cyprus date back to around 10,000 BC. From 3900 BC to the modern era, Cyprus went through numerous changes and hosted many civilisations including the Romans, Byzantines, Greek, Ottomans and so forth - all of which influenced its long and interesting historical culture. Cyprus, with its Greek influence, ancient artefacts, including Roman ruins, monasteries, medieval churches, and beautiful beaches framed on all sides by the Mediterranean. Cyprus also boats stunning landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine. It is also one of the few places in the world, where a traveller can snowboard or ski in the morning and then hurry over to Limassol or Larnaca for a sunny soak on the beach in the afternoon! And guess what? You can experience all of this without breaking the bank! Let’s dive into how you can enjoy Cyprus on a budget.

Find Cheap Flights to Cyprus - CLICK HERE

• Use Flight Comparison Websites: Comparison websites are your best friends. They compare prices across multiple airlines to find you the best deals on cheap flights.

• Book in Advance: The earlier you book, the better the deals. Aim to book your flights at least three months in advance.

• Flexible Dates: If you can be flexible with your travel dates, you can often find cheaper flights. Mid-week flights are usually less expensive than weekend ones.

• Sign Up for Alerts: Many travel websites offer price alerts. Sign up to get notified when cheap airline tickets to Cyprus become available.

Budget Hotels and Holiday Lets - CLICK HERE

• Stay in Hostels: Hostels are a great way to save money and meet fellow travellers. Look for highly-rated options in cities like Nicosia and Paphos.

• Book Holiday Apartments: Rental websites offer affordable holiday lets. You can find entire apartments for the price of a hotel room.

• Check for Deals: Always check for last-minute deals on booking websites. You might find a luxury hotel at a budget price.

• Stay Outside Tourist Areas: Accommodation in less touristy areas is often cheaper. Plus, you get to experience the local culture more authentically.

Cheap Car Rentals - CLICK HERE

• Compare Prices: Use comparison websites to find the best deals on cheap car hire. Companies like Hertz, Avis, and Sixt often have competitive rates.

• Book in Advance: Just like flights, booking your car rental in advance can save you money.

• Look for Discounts: Many car rental companies offer discounts for longer rentals or for booking online.

• Choose Economy Cars: Smaller cars are usually cheaper to rent and more fuel-efficient, saving you money on petrol.

Eat Out Like A Local

• Eat Like a Local: Local tavernas and street food vendors offer delicious meals at a fraction of the price of tourist restaurants.

• Try Meze: Meze is a selection of small dishes, perfect for sharing. It’s a great way to try a variety of Cypriot foods without spending too much.

• Visit Local Markets: Buy fresh produce from local markets and prepare your own meals if you have access to a kitchen.

• Look for Set Menus: Many restaurants offer set menus that include multiple courses for a fixed price, providing great value for money.

Places of Interest

• Ancient Kourion: Explore the ruins of this ancient city, including a well-preserved theatre and stunning mosaics.

• Troodos Mountains: Perfect for hiking and exploring traditional villages. Don’t miss the painted churches, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Larnaca Salt Lake: A beautiful natural attraction, especially stunning when pink flamingos are in residence.

• Ayia Napa Monastery: A peaceful retreat in the heart of the bustling town, offering a glimpse into Cyprus’s religious heritage.

• Paphos Archaeological Park: Home to impressive Roman mosaics and ancient ruins, this site is a must-visit for history buffs.

The Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March to May): The weather is pleasant, and the island is in full bloom. It’s also less crowded and cheaper than the peak summer months.

• Autumn (September to November): The sea is still warm, and the summer crowds have left. This is a great time to find deals on accommodation and flights.

• Winter (December to February): While it’s cooler, Cyprus still enjoys mild winters. This is the cheapest time to visit, and you can enjoy the island without the tourist crowds.

Cyprus offers a wealth of experiences without the hefty price tag. By planning ahead and making smart choices, you can immerse yourself in its rich culture, stunning sights, and delicious cuisine without emptying your wallet. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your budget-friendly Cypriot adventure today!