The Cyprus Hospitality Awards event in Limassol celebrated excellence in tourism and hospitality, highlighting the island’s commitment to gastronomic excellence and the rich tradition of “kopiaste.” The Deputy Ministry of Tourism, along with the Cyprus Hospitality Association, honored individuals and businesses dedicated to upholding the values of hospitality and showcasing the best of Cypriot culture.
What is the Cyprus Hospitality Awards event about?
The Cyprus Hospitality Awards is an event organized by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism and the Cyprus Hospitality Association to honor and recognize the exceptional talent and dedication in Cyprus’s tourism and hospitality sectors. It celebrates the island’s rich culture, the tradition of “kopiaste,” and its commitment to gastronomic excellence, including the renowned Commandaria wine.
A Grand Night in Limassol
It was a night to remember in Limassol as the Cyprus Hospitality Awards graced the city, bringing together the most exceptional talents in tourism and hospitality. The event, organized by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism and the Cyprus Hospitality Association, recognized the hard work and dedication of individuals and businesses that stand out in their commitment to excellence.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis proudly addressed the gathering, acknowledging the ongoing initiatives aimed at bringing Cypriot gastronomy to the international forefront. The evening wasn’t just about the awards; it was a reflection of Cyprus’s rich culture and the unchanging value of hospitality that has been a hallmark of the island since antiquity.
The Spirit of “Kopiaste”
The word “kopiaste” perfectly encapsulates the Cypriot tradition of inviting strangers to share in the wealth of the local table with love – a practice deeply rooted in the island’s heritage. Koumis highlighted that this ethos has now become integral to Cyprus’s tourism, with the Cyprus Hospitality Awards serving as a platform to celebrate this enduring tradition.
The awards also shone a spotlight on the island’s gastronomic achievements, with Deputy Minister Koumis celebrating the national teams of Cyprus for their commendable performance at the Culinary Olympics. Winning two silver and two bronze medals signified the dynamism and potential of Cypriot cuisine on the world stage.
A Year of Gastronomy and Commandaria
2024 promises to be a significant year for Cyprus, marking the 800th anniversary of Commandaria wine receiving the first prize at the prestigious ‘La Bataille des Vins’. This historical milestone will be commemorated by proclaiming 2024 as the “Year of Gastronomy and Commandaria,” with planned promotions to elevate the profile of this cherished beverage and Cypriot gastronomy overall.
The Deputy Ministry of Tourism is set on a mission to bring recognition to Cypriot gastronomy and the unique qualities of local wines, including the age-old Commandaria, which embodies the essence of Cypriot culture and history.
Honouring Authentic Hospitality
Polys Kallis, the president of the Cyprus Hospitality Association, emphasized the transformative power of authentic hospitality in creating memorable experiences for travelers. He spoke of how genuine hospitality can forge lasting connections, build trust, and encourage exploration, ultimately cementing the reputation of Cyprus as a leading destination for genuine warmth and welcome.
The association also proposed the establishment of an Annual Day of Cypriot Hospitality, reinforcing their commitment to the industry. As the awards ceremony concluded, it celebrated not only the winners but the very spirit of Cypriot hospitality that continues to draw people from all corners of the globe to this sun-kissed island.
What is the significance of the Cyprus Hospitality Awards event?
The Cyprus Hospitality Awards event is significant as it honors and recognizes the exceptional talent and dedication in Cyprus’s tourism and hospitality sectors. It celebrates the island’s rich culture, tradition of “kopiaste,” and commitment to gastronomic excellence, including the renowned Commandaria wine.
What is the tradition of “kopiaste” in Cyprus?
The tradition of “kopiaste” in Cyprus involves inviting strangers to share in the wealth of the local table with love, a practice deeply rooted in the island’s heritage. This ethos has become integral to Cyprus’s tourism, with the Cyprus Hospitality Awards serving as a platform to celebrate this enduring tradition.
What is planned for the 2024 “Year of Gastronomy and Commandaria” in Cyprus?
In 2024, Cyprus will commemorate the 800th anniversary of Commandaria wine receiving the first prize at the prestigious ‘La Bataille des Vins’ by proclaiming it as the “Year of Gastronomy and Commandaria.” Planned promotions will aim to elevate the profile of Commandaria wine and Cypriot gastronomy overall, showcasing the unique qualities of local wines and the essence of Cypriot culture and history.
How does the Cyprus Hospitality Association emphasize authentic hospitality in the tourism industry?
The Cyprus Hospitality Association emphasizes the transformative power of authentic hospitality in creating memorable experiences for travelers. President Polys Kallis spoke of how genuine hospitality can forge lasting connections, build trust, and encourage exploration, ultimately cementing the reputation of Cyprus as a leading destination for genuine warmth and welcome. The association has also proposed the establishment of an Annual Day of Cypriot Hospitality to further reinforce their commitment to the industry.
