Cyprus ranked 1st in Europe for the cleanest swimming waters

Picture this: Swimming in THE cleanest, highest quality waters, surrounded by beautiful scenery… Sounds dreamy? We thought so.

According to the European Environment Agency’s rankings for the 2020 swim season, Cyprus received a perfect score of 100% for ‘excellent’ water quality.

On average, 83.7% of the swimming waters in the EU are “excellent”.

A total of one hundred and twelve bathing spots were tested around the island between May 1 and October 31 last year.

Cyprus beat Austria, Greece and Malta, which came in second, third and fourth.

“There’s a direct correlation between bathing water quality and tourism and as a result, the excellent results are very important not only for the health of bathers and the environment, but also for the economy of Cyprus,” Environment Minister Costas Kadis said.

Curfew in Cyprus to be lifted on June 10

Last week, Cypriot Health Minister Constantinos Ioannou announced a further easing of Covid-19 restrictions, citing improved epidemiological data and the progress of the vaccination program.

As of June 10, Cyprus will scrap the night curfew.

However, Ioannou cautioned against people letting their guard down by not sticking to social distancing and mask-wearing.

As as of June 1st, all restrictions on indoor seating in bars and restaurants will be lifted, while indoor spaces including places of worship, theatres and cinemas, will be permitted to operate at 50% capacity.

Moreover, household gatherings will be limited to 20 people, including children and those who live in the house.

The announced measures will be valid until June 31.

Greece among countries with cleanest swimming waters in Europe