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As Wendy and I arrived in the peaceful village of Büyükkonuk , a stream of aromatic smoke greeted us before anything else. Rising from a traditional clay incense burner called a buhurdanlık , filled with burning olive leaves, the scent was earthy and comforting. Known locally as tütünmek , this age-old practice is a Cypriot ritual of protection and welcome, believed to cleanse visitors from negative energy. A buhurdanlık typically consists of a heat-resistant container designed to safely burn aromatic materials and it set the tone perfectly for what the Eco Day Festival  is all about: tradition, warmth, and a genuine connection to heritage. Held twice a year in May and October , the Büyükkonuk Eco Day Festival is a celebration of everything that makes rural North Cyprus special. We visited today 11 of May, and what unfolded was a sensory tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavours that brought village life vividly to life. Just around the corner, we met a woman who absolutely lit up the moment with her welcoming smile as we approached. Standing at her stall, she was making traditional gosleme pancake on a large round griddle her movements were very well practiced, and pride in here skill. She looked up, beamed at us, and proudly told us she’d been making this since she was a young girl, taught by her mother, and her mother before her. It was clear this wasn’t just something she did it was part of who she was. Craftsmanship on Full Display One of our favourite encounters was with a potter shaping fresh clay into delicate vases. Dressed in traditional Cypriot attire, he worked beside his efforts of rows and colourful handmade cups and ceramics for sale. Every item told a story, and every vendor was eager to share theirs. Further along, a stall of rugged leather bags caught our eye. Handmade from natural hides and stitched with character, each one felt like a nod to the region’s nomadic past. We also came across “Fatti Abanın Yeri” a wonderful stall where an elderly woman quietly wove traditional Cypriot reed bags  by hand. Her movements were gentle, practiced, and full of meaning. It was clear this wasn’t just craftwork it was heritage, passed down through the generations. A Feast for the Senses And then there was the food. Long tables overflowed with the golden glint of honey Karpaz Balları jars wild honey from the Karpaz region. Nearby, punnets of plump, ripe strawberries tempted every passer by. Local women in bright floral dresses served up hellim (fried halloumi) , freshly baked breads, olive oil , and colourful jars of preserved fruits. We couldn’t resist a hot cone of grilled corn on the cob from a stand marked MISIR , the Turkish word for corn. Every bite, every scent it all celebrated the land and the people who farm it. Music, Community… and TikTok The heart of the festival pulsed with music. A choir filled the air with folk songs, backed by musicians on traditional string instruments. Children danced, families clapped, and the energy was contagious. Among the seated guests for the main stage attraction of the festival in the front row was President Ersin Tatar  himself. While the performances were full of life and heritage, we couldn’t help but notice the president looking a bit… distracted. At one point, he appeared to be scrolling through TikTok . Even heads of state need a little entertainment, right? 😄 A Stop at Agios Afksentios Church As we walked towards the end of the village, we eventually reached the far edge of Büyükkonuk where the beautiful Agios Afksentios Church  quietly stood. This stone-built church is a piece of living history. Believed to date back centuries, it features vaulted ceilings, arched stone walls, and serene recesses that glow in the filtered light. Inside, icons of saints were displayed on wooden easels, adding reverence and stillness to an otherwise lively day. In 2014, a full restoration funded by the European Union  and supported by the UNDP  helped bring this landmark back to life. The project was a collaborative effort between Greek and Turkish Cypriots a testament to unity, culture, and shared legacy. It now stands not only as a place of worship but as a beacon of cooperation and respect. A Living Village Büyükkonuk  has long been at the forefront of eco-tourism in Northern Cyprus and this festival is proof. It wasn’t a tourist trap. It wasn’t staged. It was real: real crafts, real people, real pride. As the day came to a close, we left with a jar of honey, a handmade cup, and smiles that stayed with us longer than the journey home. More than souvenirs, we took with us a deep appreciation for the quiet beauty of village life and the richness of Cypriot tradition. Why You Should Go Whether you’re living in Cyprus or just visiting, the Büyükkonuk Eco Day Festival  is a must-see. Go with an open heart, an empty stomach, and a little room in your bag for something handcrafted. And if you’re lucky, you might just leave with something even better a story worth retelling.

If you’ve been keeping an eye on Northern Cyprus, you’ve likely noticed the transformation unfolding in Bafra and now, things are about to get even more exciting. A major new golf complex led by the renowned Limak Group is currently under construction, and it's already generating buzz across the island and beyond. But this isn’t just great news for golfers it’s a game-changing moment for property owners and investors, especially those located nearby at resorts like Thalassa Beach Resort. Here’s why this project could significantly boost the value of properties in Bafra and why now might be the smartest time to explore the opportunity. Limak Cyprus Golf Hotel: An 18-Hole Masterpiece in Progress At the heart of this development is the upcoming Cyprus Limak Golf Hotel, featuring a full 18-hole championship golf course, luxury guest accommodations, and sophisticated architectural design. This isn’t your average course it’s designed to offer an ultra-premium experience that blends scenic coastal views with cutting-edge leisure, retail, and hospitality amenities. From concrete-strong design to curvilinear architectural flourishes, every inch of the resort is being planned to attract high-value tourism and real estate interest including from the growing number of golf enthusiasts across Europe and the Middle East. Bafra: North Cyprus’ Fastest Growing Tourist Zone Designated a tourism development zone since 2006, Bafra has already welcomed several 5-star hotels and luxury resorts, with plans for even more expansion. The government’s roadmap includes: Additional hotel projects A marina A nature reserve And now, this golf complex to crown it all The region is evolving into a full-fledged golf and wellness destination, which is expected to create rising demand for premium properties nearby especially beachfront units like our 3-bedroom penthouse below at Thalassa Beach Resort, located just minutes away. Why This Golf Course Matters for Property Owners Historically, golf developments have had a positive impact on real estate values in nearby areas. They bring: High-spending tourism International attention Long-term rental demand Increased infrastructure and services For owners at Thalassa Beach Resort, this means stronger capital growth, higher rental yields, and greater interest from overseas buyers and investors. Our penthouse already offers resort-style living, a rooftop jacuzzi, ocean views, and private beach access but now, with an international-standard golf course coming to the neighbourhood, it’s positioned to benefit directly from the rising tide. Live Where Others Come to Escape Bafra is still one of North Cyprus’ best-kept secrets but not for long. With its laid-back coastal charm, luxury resorts, and now a landmark golf development in motion, the area is set to become a go-to destination for golfing holidays, wellness retreats, and second-home seekers. Want to see what it’s like to live next door to the future of Cypriot tourism? Visit the Penthouse Website: www.BeachfrontPenthouseCyprus.com You’ll find: Full details about the 3-bedroom property A gallery of sunset views, rooftop lounging, and modern interiors Direct contact if you're interested in viewing or learning more Ready to invest ahead of the curve? Don’t wait until the fairways are filled and the market catches on. Now is the time to tee up your next move in Bafra.

Nestled at the northeastern tip of Cyprus, the Karpaz Peninsula National Park  (officially Dipkarpaz Milli Parki ) is a sanctuary of unspoiled beauty, where golden beaches meet wild landscapes and ancient traditions. Often called the "Panhandle of Cyprus," this protected area is a haven for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone seeking serenity far from crowded tourist spots. 🌿 Wildlife Wonders The Famous Wild Donkeys The park’s unofficial mascots are its wild donkeys , descendants of domesticated animals left to roam freely after farming declined. These gentle creatures are a symbol of resilience and charm, often greeting visitors along dusty trails or lounging under olive trees. Sea Turtle Nesting Grounds The pristine beaches of Karpaz, like Golden Beach  and Apricot Beach , serve as critical nesting sites for loggerhead and green sea turtles . Conservation efforts here ensure these ancient mariners return safely each year to lay their eggs—a magical sight if you visit between May and August. 🏖️ Beaches Beyond Imagination Karpaz’s coastline is a masterpiece of nature: Golden Beach : A 4km stretch of untouched sand, perfect for swimming and solitude. Crystal-Clear Waters : Ideal for snorkeling, with vibrant marine life just below the surface. Remote Bays : Discover hidden coves like Kleides (Keys) Islands , accessible only by boat. TripAdvisor travelers rave: “Best beaches ever!” 🚶♂️ Must-Do Activities Hike the Rugged Trails : Explore ancient ruins, Byzantine churches, and wildflower meadows. Photography Safari : Capture donkeys, migratory birds, and jaw-dropping sunsets. Cultural Detours : Visit nearby villages like Dipkarpaz for traditional Cypriot cuisine. Boat Tours : Sail to secluded spots like Kastros for cliffside views and swimming. 🌍 Conservation at Its Core The park doubles as the Wild Donkey Protection Area , safeguarding biodiversity while balancing sustainable tourism. Efforts to protect turtles and restore habitats make it a model for eco-conscious travel. Plan Your Visit Best Time : Spring (March-May) for wildflowers or autumn (September-November) for mild weather. Stay : Eco-friendly guesthouses or beachfront campsites (permit required). Tip : Bring binoculars—the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise! Why Visit? Karpaz Peninsula National Park isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether you’re tracing turtle tracks at dawn, laughing as donkeys photobomb your selfies, or simply breathing in the scent of wild herbs, this corner of North Cyprus reminds us why wild places matter. Pack your sense of adventure, and let Karpaz rewrite your definition of paradise.  🌅

While the amenities at Thalassa Beach Resort offer plenty to keep you entertained, the surrounding area of Çayırova and Bafra also boasts several attractions that are worth exploring. 1. Karpaz Peninsula National Park Located a short drive from the resort, Karpaz Peninsula National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. Famous for its wild donkeys and untouched landscapes, the area offers scenic trails, pristine beaches, and the chance to see the beautiful flora and fauna of North Cyprus. 2. Apostolos Andreas Monastery This historic monastery, located on the Karpaz Peninsula, is an important pilgrimage site and a fascinating place to explore. It’s known for its striking architecture and rich history, and visitors often come here to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and stunning coastal views. 3. Salamis Ancient City For a journey back in time, take a trip to the ancient city of Salamis. Located near Famagusta, about a 45-minute drive from the resort, Salamis was once a thriving Roman city. You can explore the impressive ruins, including the ancient amphitheatre, Roman baths, and a collection of beautiful mosaics. 4. Famagusta Old Town Famagusta is a charming city full of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Wander through its old streets, visit the impressive Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, and take in the sights of the Venetian walls that once protected this historic port city. The city is filled with quaint cafes and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy traditional Cypriot cuisine. 5. Golden Beach If you’re seeking an even more secluded beach experience, Golden Beach on the Karpaz Peninsula is the place to go. Known as one of the most beautiful and untouched beaches in North Cyprus, it’s the perfect spot for a day of swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Mediterranean coast. Local Dining and Entertainment For guests wanting to explore beyond the resort, there are plenty of local dining options and entertainment nearby. The region of Bafra is known for its seafood restaurants, where you can sample freshly caught fish and local delicacies. Many of these restaurants offer picturesque views over the sea, providing the perfect setting for a relaxing meal. Additionally, local markets and cafes provide a taste of authentic Cypriot life, with many opportunities to try traditional dishes like halloumi, souvlaki, and baklava. Conclusion Thalassa Beach Resort and the surrounding area of Çayırova and Bafra provide an ideal blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. From the luxurious amenities within the resort to the historical and natural wonders around North Cyprus, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring ancient ruins, or enjoying a local seafood dinner, Thalassa Beach Resort offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable getaway.