Cyprus is among the most searched destinations as Britons consider their holiday options, but UK tour operators will not send customers until the Foreign Office lifts its travel guidance to avoid non-essential travel to Cyprus, a top tourism professional said on Monday.

A total of 38,226 tourist arrivals were recorded in April 2021, compared to zero arrivals recorded in April 2020, a period during which measures were implemented to prevent the spread of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) in Cyprus, the Statistical Service of Cyprus announced on Monday. According to these measures, there was a ban of entry to the Republic on several categories of persons, including tourists. Arrivals from Russia were the main source of tourism in April 2021.

In total 15,338 residents of Cyprus returned from a trip abroad in April 2021, compared to 4,000 in the corresponding month last year, recording an increase of 283.5%, according to data released Monday by the Statistical Service of Cyprus. Compared to April 2019 there was a 86.9% decrease.

The Cyprus business and professional climate, which had deteriorated in March 2021, has strengthened significantly in April of this year, according to a report by the University of Cyprus Economic Research Centre.

Cyprus Casinos reopened to customers for the first time in six months as the island unlocks from Covid-19 restrictions.

Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades has called on the new parliament after elections as well as industry leaders to support an ambitious €4.4 billion economic stimulus plan, saying it will lead the country into a new era.

Use of the internet by older Cypriots is at similar levels as the EU average, with 58% of the 65 to 74-year age group saying they had gone online, close to the EU27 average of 61%, according to Eurostat on Monday.

The more people getting vaccinated the lower the number of cases and hospitalisations, the health ministry said on Sunday citing the latest epidemiological data.

Revenue of up to €70 million is expected from the launch of cruises by Jewel of the Seas of Royal Caribbean from Limassol port starting July 10.

Hotels across the island are opening their doors this week, offering discounts to Cypriots, following the easing of lockdown that banned hotel stays for residents.