The Coronavirus | Cyprus

This document contains the latest information about the protocols, preventative measures and changes adopted on Cyprus in response to the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

At the eastern edge of the Mediterranean Sea, from sumptuous coastline to mountainous interior, Cyprus is an island steeped in contrasts: lively resorts to monastic serenity, cacophonous street life to ageless village silence, Greek temple to Byzantine hermitage, Neolithic dwelling to luxury hotel. Cyprus is an island for all seasons: with its short, mild winter and mountain snow, the glorious swathes of spring-time flora, the deep, burnishing heat of summer, and the mellow warmth of the island’s long autumn.

The island is Sunvil's birthplace and we have been offering holidays here since 1970. Our knowledge of the less-beaten paths is unrivalled.

Since lockdown was announced, and before, we have been closely monitoring government guidance, regional policies and have maintained a continuous dialogue with our colleagues on Cyprus. Below we have highlighted the facts and guidelines relating to accommodation, shops and services. It is important to note that guidelines are being updated daily and you should contact us should you have any specific questions or concerns.

This document was updated on Sunday 05 July. 

Arrivals

Cyprus will open its borders to UK travellers on 01 August. All visitors will be required to complete the Cyprus Flight Pass questionnaire and undergo a test for the Coronavirus (Covid-19) 72 hours prior to departure. A negative test result will need to be presented on arrival.

Accommodation

A series of protocols have been adopted by hospitality establishments across the island to safeguard all. These measures include:

• The adoption of a 2m social distancing policy. Indoors this distancing is increased to 3m for non family groups/travel bubbles. Where physical distancing is not possible it is mandatory to wear of a face mask is mandatory i.e. in a lift
• Enhanced cleaning throughout any hospitality establishment
• The mandatory use of face masks and gloves by accommodation personnel, except for restaurant staff serving outside (due to the heat)
• The frequent airing of indoor spaces
• The provision of antibacterial gel in public areas such as at entrances, receptions, lounges, public toilets, lifts etc.
• Contactless payments encouraged

Sunvil's team will advise any measures specific to your hotel of choice upon confirmation and with our travel documentation.

Swimming pools and wellness facilities

Outdoor swimming pools are permitted to open providing an enhanced cleaning policy of the pool surroundings and furniture is adopted. 

Sunbeds are required to be spaced at a distance of at least 2m, with only guests travelling together permitted within this bubble. Umbrellas are required to be spaced at a distance of at least 4m.

Transfers and car hire

Sunvil and our local partners have adopted the following measures when transferring our guests:

• The use of face masks is compulsory for all occupants within transfer vehicles.
• Transfer vehicles must be cleaned and aired regularly
• All touch points disinfected after every journey
  
  
• Hire cars will be deep-cleaned prior to all rentals

Services

Restaurants and cafe-bars are permitted to offer seating inside and outdoors. The minimum distance allowed between tables is 2sqm outdoors and 3sqm indoors, and no more than 10 people are allowed at one table.

Social distancing (2m) is required in all public outdoor spaces including parks, gardens and the beach.

Shops are open and operating with limited capacity. You may be required to wait a few minutes before entering, as we have been doing so in the UK. The use of face masks is mandatory inside the premises unless social distancing measures (3m) can be adhered.

Archaeological sites

Archaeological sites will operate with applicable social distancing measures in place i.e. 3m indoors and 2m outdoors. All touch points will be disinfected regularly.

Sunvil's support

Sunvil’s destination specialists know Cyprus inside out. The team consisting of Claire, Courtney, Jackie, Jordan, Justin, Karolina, Mark and Stella, are supported in-country by our local representative. We operate a 24-hour emergency telephone number and are also on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Other useful links

• A country by country overview can be found at reopen.europa.eu/en
• Foreign and Commonwealth Office advice for Cyprus