News

Kyperounta Received FIJET’s Prestigious Golden Apple Award in the Presence of International Travel Journalism Leaders

The mountain village of Kyperounta  placed in the international tourism spotlight as it received the prestigious Golden Apple Award from our World Federation.  Located in the heart of the Troodos Mountains, Kyperounta is renowned for its rich history, traditional architecture, scenic landscapes, vineyards, local gastronomy, and warm hospitality.  So, this award represents  Fijet international recognition of the village’s efforts to promote sustainable tourism while safeguarding its traditions and cultural heritage.  But, Kyperounta is more than a picturesque destination. It represents a way of life in which people and nature have learned to coexist, adapt and endure, the destination that deserves to be discovered and appreciated internationally: a place whose value lies not only in its natural beauty, but also in its people, its heritage and its enduring relationship with the environment. The award is more than a distinction. It is an invitation to look at tourism differently.

The Master of Ceremonies Mr. Loucas Hamatsos, made a comprehensive introduction to the event, highlighting its significance and the importance of the FIJET Golden Apple Award.

With absolute pleasure to welcome all in Kyperounta  gathered to celebrate a truly remarkable event  gave Deputy Minister of Culture, Ms. Klea Papaellina.

At his welcoming speech on behalf of the Cyprus Travel Writers & Journalists Society (FIJET-Cyprus), president Philip Nicolaides, expressed their appreciation to FIJET for selecting Kyperounta for this prestigious distinction and emphasized the importance of international cooperation in promoting responsible and sustainable tourism. Hе expressed our sincere thanks to the Deputy Ministry of Tourism—and personally to Deputy Minister Mr. Kostas Koumis—for their comprehensive support and for sponsoring the hosting of the visiting journalists; to the Community Leader Mr. Michalis Hatzimichail; to the region’s tourism stakeholders; to Constantinos Constantinou, Tourism Officer at the Troodos Tourism Board; to Giorgos Michailides, who proposed the award for Kyperounta; to the leadership of the international FIJET; and to everyone who worked to ensure the success of this event.

Mr. Plamen Starev, President of the FIJET Selection and Award Committee, stressed the significance of the Golden Apple Award in recognising destinations that have made outstanding contributions to tourism development. He highlighted the importance of preserving cultural heritage, promoting local traditions, and encouraging sustainable tourism, while commending Kyperounta for its efforts to showcase its unique character and hospitality to the world.

FIJET President Mr. Tijani Haddad shared his views on the importance of tourism as a bridge between nations and cultures. He emphasized the vital role of international cooperation in promoting mutual understanding, strengthening professional ties, and fostering friendship among peoples. His remarks highlighted the power of tourism to bring countries closer together and contribute to a more peaceful and interconnected world.

Kyperounta Community Leader, Mr. Michalis Hatzimichael, proudly received the prestigious Golden Apple Award from Mr. Tijani Haddad.

Mr. Tijani Haddad, President of FIJET, was presented with a commemorative plaque by Mr. Michalis Hatzimichael, Community Leader of Kyperounta, as a token of appreciation and recognition of FIJET’s valuable contribution to international tourism and its ongoing efforts to promote cooperation and friendship among nations. . 

Thе Fijet  presence underlines the significance of the award and highlights the international recognition being accorded to Kyperounta for its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, authentic character, natural beauty, and hospitality. Among those present were Ms Tina Eterovic Cubrilo, V.P., Marijana Rebic, SG, Stefan Baciu, EC Member and President of FIJET Romania, Asma Jerbi Abouda, Secretary FIJET Tunisia, Phivos Nicolaides, President of FIJET Cyprus, George Michaelides, V.P. FIJET Cyprus, Loucas Hamatsos, FIJET Cyprus, Skevi Constantinou, Secretary FIJET Cyprus and many more members and partners.

This award represents  Fijet international recognition of the village’s efforts to promote sustainable tourism while safeguarding its traditions and cultural heritage.  But, Kyperounta is more than a picturesque destination. It represents a way of life in which people and nature have learned to coexist, adapt and endure, as Mr.Hatzimichael said.

The award ceremony was attended by distinguished FIJET officials , which presence underlines the significance of the award and highlights the international recognition being accorded to Kyperounta for its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, authentic character, natural beauty, and hospitality.

The ceremony was  with another major event in the village’s calendar: the annual Apple Festival, which added an extra dimension of colour, vibrancy, and celebration to the occasion. The festival showcased Kyperounta’s rich agricultural tradition and its renowned apple production, attracting locals and visitors alike and making the day even more special and memorable.

The ceremony attracted thousands of local residents and visitors, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere.

Text: Marijana Rebic

Photos: FIJET Archive