Away Days Archives - SNN Sports

Drama, Decisions & Deciders: Scottish Football Managers in the Spotlight!

With a crucial Champions League showdown looming, Brendan Rodgers has issued a rallying cry to his Celtic squad—go bold or go home! The Hoops boss is urging his side to seize the moment in Germany, where they must overturn a 2-1 deficit against Bayern Munich to keep their European dream alive. Meanwhile, Bayern’s own Vincent Kompany is playing it cool, suggesting that his side’s 0-0 draw with Bayer Leverkusen was the perfect defensive test ahead of Celtic’s visit. But could Jota shake things up? The Portuguese winger has surely staked his claim for a starting spot after a dazzling performance in Celtic’s 3-0 win over Dundee United. Speaking of Dundee United, Jim Goodwin insists that Will Ferry and Kevin Holt were merely rested against Celtic and should be back in action next week. Nothing to see here, folks—just a precaution! Over at Rangers, Philippe Clement is facing the heat. His side’s shock Scottish Cup exit to Queen’s Park has left fans fuming, and his decision to hook Bailey Rice at half-time didn’t go unnoticed. The 18-year-old was dropped for failing to “break the lines” with his passing, but Clement insists he still believes in the youngster. With pressure mounting, Clement is standing firm, refusing to walk away from what he calls the “toughest period” of his career. Elsewhere in Scottish football, Hibs’ new shot-stopper Jordan Smith has been left “blown away” by the standard of the game, while Aberdeen boss Jimmy Thelin has showered praise on the travelling Dons support after their gritty win at Dundee. And let’s not forget the SWPL drama—Glasgow City’s Leanne Ross has been grilling refereeing chief Willie Collum over some questionable decisions. With all these talking points, Scottish football is delivering non-stop drama on and off the pitch!

February 16, 2025

Celtic Away Day Guide: GNK Dinamo Zagreb

For the Celtic faithful heading to Zagreb on 10 December, here’s a guide on where to stay, eat, and soak up the atmosphere before the big match against GNK Dinamo Zagreb. This city offers a blend of history, local flavours, and lively culture, so there’s plenty to enjoy alongside the football! A Snapshot of GNK Dinamo Zagreb and Stadion Maksimir Founded in 1945, GNK Dinamo Zagreb is Croatia’s most successful club, winning numerous league titles and regularly appearing in European competitions. They play at Stadion Maksimir, an iconic 35,000-seat venue known for its loud and intense atmosphere. Dinamo’s ultras, the Bad Blue Boys, are particularly passionate, creating an energy that can be both impressive and intimidating for visiting fans. Expect a lively setting with high security, especially in the away section. Where to Stay Hotel Esplanade Zagreb This historic hotel, near Zagreb’s main train station, is one of the city’s grandest places to stay. Built in 1925, it blends Art Deco style with modern luxury, making it perfect if you’re looking to indulge and stay close to top attractions. Canopy by Hilton Zagreb A stylish choice that mixes local flair with modern comfort, Canopy by Hilton is centrally located and offers a trendy, relaxed atmosphere with a focus on Croatian decor and food. Great for fans looking for both comfort and local charm. Hostel Shappy For budget-conscious fans, Hostel Shappy is located right in the heart of the city, providing affordable and lively accommodation with a welcoming vibe for travellers and fans alike. Top Spots to Eat and Drink La Štruk Located near Zagreb’s main square, La Štruk serves traditional Croatian strukli—a local speciality of cheese-filled dough baked to perfection. It’s a must-try and a convenient, hearty meal before or after the match. Craft Room Popular among locals and visitors alike, Craft Room is a cosy pub offering a great selection of Croatian craft beers and pub-style bites. Perfect for a casual pre-match drink. Mali Bar If you’re in the mood for something more modern, Mali Bar provides a creative take on Croatian cuisine, with seasonal dishes and small plates. This trendy spot is ideal for fans looking to sample Croatian flavours in a lively atmosphere. Vinodol For those wanting a proper sit-down meal, Vinodol serves classic Mediterranean and Croatian dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Known for its delicious meat and seafood options, it’s a favourite for those wanting a more refined pre-game meal. Things to Do in Zagreb Explore Gornji Grad (Upper Town) Wander through the historic cobbled streets of Gornji Grad, where you’ll find landmarks like St. Mark’s Church with its iconic tiled roof. The area also has charming cafes and some of the best views of the city. Check Out Dolac Market Zagreb’s central market is bustling with local vendors selling fresh produce, cheeses, and traditional foods. It’s a great spot to get a feel for Zagreb’s everyday life and maybe pick up a snack for later. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships This quirky museum, filled with mementos and stories from around the world, is a unique experience. It’s a popular stop in Zagreb, offering an unusual and often humorous take on human connections. Matchday Essentials Tickets: Check with Celtic’s official site for details on away tickets, as Stadion Maksimir usually fills up quickly for European fixtures. Getting There: Stadion Maksimir is around 3km from the city centre. Trams 4, 7, and 11 will take you close to the stadium, and they run frequently on matchdays. Aim to arrive early, as the trams can get busy. Stadium Tips: The home fans are known for their spirited support, so be mindful when travelling to and from the game. Away fans have designated sections, so follow directions from security and stay together for a smooth experience. With great food, lively culture, and intense football passion, Zagreb promises an unforgettable away day for Celtic fans.

November 10, 2024

Our Ultimate Groundhopper’s Guide to Scottish Football Stadiums

Our Ultimate Groundhopper’s Guide to Scottish Football Stadiums Scotland is home to a treasure trove of football grounds, each with its own character, history, and traditions. From the colossal Celtic Park in Glasgow to the picturesque and compact Gayfield Park in Arbroath, the Scottish football landscape offers an experience for every kind of groundhopper. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just starting your groundhopping journey, this guide will take you from the Highlands to the Lowlands, through our pick of 17 of the 42 SPFL clubs and their stadiums, offering tips, quirks, and the best each ground has to offer. Glasgow’s Football Giants: The City’s Crown Jewels Celtic Park (Celtic FC) Capacity: 60,411 Experience: The atmosphere at “Paradise” is legendary, especially on big European nights or during the Old Firm derbies. Steeped in history, this is a pilgrimage site for football lovers worldwide. Top Tip: Arrive early to explore the Celtic Way Ibrox Stadium (Rangers FC) Capacity: 50,817 Experience: Known for its iconic red-brick facade and deafening support, Ibrox is a ground where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. Top Tip: Visit the Bill Struth Main Stand to admire its unique architecture and pay homage to Rangers’ storied history. Firhill Stadium (Partick Thistle FC) Capacity: 10,102 Experience: The “Jags” bring their own charm to the Scottish game, with Firhill offering an authentic and friendly vibe. Top Tip: Grab a pint in the surrounding pubs – the local Partick crowd makes for great company. Edinburgh’s Historic Heart Tynecastle Park (Heart of Midlothian FC) Capacity: 20,099 Experience: A cauldron-like atmosphere awaits at Tynecastle, where fans sit close to the pitch, creating an intimate yet intense experience. Top Tip: Check out the famous Roseburn Stand for stunning views of the action, and make sure to join the locals for a pre-match singalong. Easter Road (Hibernian FC) Capacity: 20,421 Experience: Known for its passionate supporters and community feel, Easter Road offers one of the best atmospheres in Scotland, particularly during the Edinburgh derby. Top Tip: Make time for a post-match pint on Easter Road itself, where the streets are lined with welcoming pubs. A Highland Fling: The Northern Grounds Pittodrie Stadium (Aberdeen FC) Capacity: 20,866 Experience: One of the oldest stadiums in Scotland, Pittodrie is home to the famous “Red Shed,” where Dons fans show their colours with fervour. Top Tip: Experience the sea breeze from the North Sea – it adds a unique element to watching football up north. Caledonian Stadium (Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC) Capacity: 7,512 Experience: Set on the Moray Firth, this stadium offers breathtaking views of the water and distant mountains, making it a peaceful yet unique matchday experience. Top Tip: Bring a warm coat – Highland weather can be unforgiving, even in spring! Victoria Park (Ross County FC) Capacity: 6,541 Experience: Known as the “Staggies,” Ross County play in one of Scotland’s most intimate stadiums, making it easy to connect with the passionate locals. Top Tip: Sample some Highland hospitality and local fare – Victoria Park is famous for its friendly, welcoming vibe. Coastal Gems and Hidden Treasures Gayfield Park (Arbroath FC) Capacity: 6,600 Experience: Gayfield is literally a stone’s throw from the North Sea, making it the closest stadium to the sea in all of Britain. Beware the wind – it’s part of the game here! Top Tip: Try Arbroath’s famous smokies (smoked haddock) at a nearby chippy before or after the match. East End Park (Dunfermline Athletic FC) Capacity: 11,480 Experience: A historic ground in Fife with strong community roots and loyal support. Expect a friendly but lively atmosphere. Top Tip: The club museum offers a fascinating dive into the club’s history, perfect for the football historian. Cappielow Park (Greenock Morton FC) Capacity: 11,589 Experience: With one of the last remaining standing terraces in Scotland, Cappielow is an old-school experience where fans get up close and personal with the action. Top Tip: Cappielow’s pies are legendary among Scottish football fans – don’t miss out! Small but Mighty: Lower League Legends Ochilview Park (Stenhousemuir FC) Capacity: 3,746 Experience: A small yet characterful stadium with views of the Ochil Hills in the distance. Stenhousemuir prides itself on its welcoming local vibe. Top Tip: Enjoy the community feel and catch a glimpse of future talent – lower league Scottish games often showcase upcoming stars. Station Park (Forfar Athletic FC) Capacity: 6,777 Experience: Known for its small-town charm, Station Park is famed for its friendly fans and countryside setting. Top Tip: Sample the famous Forfar Bridie, a local pastry similar to a meat pie, available at the ground. Broadwood Stadium (Clyde FC) Capacity: 8,086 Experience: Although a relatively modern stadium, Broadwood offers fans close proximity to the action with a family-friendly feel. Top Tip: Clyde’s ground is in Cumbernauld, so plan your journey in advance, as it’s a little out of Glasgow’s centre. For the Football Purist Somerset Park (Ayr United FC) Capacity: 10,185 Experience: An old-school stadium with terraces that transport you back to a golden era of Scottish football. The raucous fans add to the excitement, especially on derby days. Top Tip: Visit the Supporters’ Club bar for a pint before the game – Ayr fans are among the friendliest around. Tannadice Park (Dundee United FC) Capacity: 14,223 Experience: Situated right next to Dens Park, Tannadice is compact but fierce, particularly when United face Dundee FC in the “Tayside Derby.” Top Tip: Tannadice’s unique location means you can actually visit two stadiums in one go – Dens Park is just a stone’s throw away. Dens Park (Dundee FC) Capacity: 11,506 Experience: Known for its steep stands, Dens Park offers some of the best sightlines in Scotland. Expect a gritty, hard-fought game whenever Dundee play at home. Top Tip: Sample a local Dundee delicacy, such as a “peh” (pie) – a game-day staple. The Groundhopper’s Dream Scotland’s stadiums are more than just venues – they’re cultural landmarks and places of passionate expression. From grand stadiums packed with tens of thousands of fans to cosy lower-league grounds where you’re practically on

November 5, 2024

Exploring Celtic Park: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Glasgow’s Legendary Stadium

A Brief History of Celtic Park Celtic Park opened its doors in 1892, just four years after the club’s founding. The original site, however, wasn’t the current location – Celtic Park initially sat a short distance away but was quickly moved to accommodate the club’s rapid growth. Since then, it has become Scotland’s largest football stadium, boasting a capacity of just over 60,000, with a legacy steeped in football history and cultural significance. Over the years, Celtic Park has undergone significant renovations, reflecting the club’s ambition and desire to offer fans a world-class venue. One of the most transformative periods came in the 1990s, when major renovations were completed to expand the stadium’s capacity and modernise its facilities. This update was driven in part by UEFA regulations, which required clubs in European competitions to upgrade their stadiums for fan safety and comfort. During this time, the iconic North Stand was constructed, bringing the stadium to its current capacity. The most recent renovations have focused on enhancing the fan experience, with improved seating, updated facilities, and expanded hospitality options. Celtic Park also prides itself on being accessible, with dedicated sections for disabled supporters and state-of-the-art facilities to ensure all fans feel welcome. Celtic Park is a space where tradition and modernity converge, offering an unforgettable experience for fans and visitors alike. It’s a place of pilgrimage, not just for Celtic fans but for football enthusiasts worldwide, and continues to set the standard for football stadiums across Europe. Celtic Park, affectionately known as “Paradise” by fans, is one of Europe’s most revered football venues and a must-visit for football enthusiasts visiting Glasgow. Nestled in the East End of Glasgow, it’s a beacon of Scottish football history, drawing thousands of fans and tourists eager to experience its electric atmosphere, explore its rich heritage, and walk in the footsteps of Celtic greats. Whether you’re here for a game or a stadium tour, here’s everything you need to know about visiting this iconic ground. Getting to Celtic Park By Public Transport: The stadium is well-connected by public transport. The most straightforward route from Glasgow city centre is by train, with Dalmarnock Station and Bellgrove Station both within a 15-minute walk from the stadium. Services from Glasgow Central Station to Dalmarnock take around 10 minutes, and trains run frequently on matchdays, making it a smooth and efficient option. Alternatively, buses from the city centre, such as the 61, 62, or 240, drop fans off close to the stadium. By Car: For those driving, Celtic Park is accessible via the M8 motorway. There is limited parking near the stadium, and surrounding streets fill up quickly on matchdays. To avoid the hassle, some fans opt to park in the city centre and take a train or bus to the ground. Note that parking restrictions are in place during events, so planning ahead is advised. By Bicycle: For the eco-conscious or those looking to see more of Glasgow, cycling to Celtic Park is a great option. There are cycling paths that connect the stadium with the city centre, and bike racks are available near the entrance. Experiencing Matchday at Celtic Park Attending a Celtic match at Celtic Park is an experience like no other. The roar of the 60,000 fans singing “You’ll Never Walk Alone” is something that reverberates through the stadium and the surrounding area. Fans are passionate, and the atmosphere in Paradise is electrifying, particularly during league-defining games or European nights, where the stadium truly comes alive. For those looking to capture the full Celtic Park experience, key matches against rivals like Rangers are highly sought-after, offering an atmosphere that’s second to none. Best Times to Visit: The Scottish Premiership season runs from August through May, with fixtures every other weekend, typically on Saturdays or Sundays. While any game at Celtic Park is bound to be memorable, attending evening European matches offers an extra sense of magic. For a quieter experience, early weekday games or friendlies offer an equally exciting atmosphere, minus the intense crowds. Getting Tickets for Matches Celtic FC is one of the most popular clubs in the UK, so securing tickets for big matches, especially those against Rangers or during European competitions, can be a challenge. Tickets are available on Celtic’s official website, with priority given to season ticket holders. Membership packages are also available, granting early access to tickets and additional perks. For those unable to grab a ticket directly, hospitality packages offer an upscale matchday experience and are easier to secure, especially for high-demand games. Pricing and Availability: Match ticket prices vary depending on the competition and seating location within the stadium, ranging from £30 to £55 for standard tickets. European games and Old Firm matches tend to be pricier and require early booking. Celtic Park Stadium Tours When there’s no match scheduled, a stadium tour offers a behind-the-scenes look into the heart of Celtic Park. These tours are a brilliant way to experience the club’s rich history and access areas usually off-limits to the public, including the dressing rooms, pitchside, and the famous tunnel that’s seen countless players walk through it over the years. Tour Details: Tours last about an hour and a half, led by knowledgeable guides who are often lifelong fans, offering fascinating insights into the club’s history, from its founding in 1888 to its modern-day successes. Highlights include the Boardroom, where Celtic’s honours are proudly displayed, the dressing room, and pitchside, where you can step into the technical area and view the field from the manager’s perspective. Best Time for Tours: Tours run on non-matchdays, with several slots available daily. The quieter weekdays allow for a more intimate experience, while weekends can be busier with fans from all over the world. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak football season and around holidays, when the club welcomes fans from far and wide. Tips for a Memorable Visit Arrive Early: Matchdays at Celtic Park draw huge crowds. Arriving early lets you soak up the atmosphere,

November 5, 2024

Barcelona Away Day: Your Ultimate Guide for Football Fans with Food, Culture, and Travel Tips

If you’re heading to Barcelona to experience football at Camp Nou, you’re in for an incredible trip. But it’s not just about the match! Barcelona is packed with culinary treasures, rich culture, and a lively vibe that makes for an unforgettable trip. Here’s your guide on where to eat, what to do, the best times of year to visit, and budget tips for your stay. When to Visit Barcelona Spring (March-May): Ideal for mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists, with temperatures ranging from 15-20°C. Perfect for taking in a game and exploring the city on foot. Autumn (September-November): With cooler temperatures (around 20-25°C) and fewer crowds, autumn is another great season for football fans and offers more affordable accommodation than in peak summer. Winter (December-February): While cooler (10-15°C), winter is a fantastic time to visit if you prefer a more laid-back, crowd-free experience. Football matches are still lively, and the holiday decorations add charm, especially around the Gothic Quarter. Where to Eat Barcelona is a food lover’s paradise, with everything from traditional tapas to avant-garde cuisine. Here are some must-try spots for an authentic Catalan experience: La Boqueria Market – Located on La Rambla, this vibrant market is a feast for the senses. Try tapas from El Quim de la Boqueria or get a fresh juice. Ideal for a quick snack as you explore. Can Culleretes – One of Barcelona’s oldest restaurants, famous for Catalan dishes like suquet de peix (fish stew) and crema catalana. A fantastic spot for fans craving an authentic sit-down meal. Quimet & Quimet – A tiny, legendary bar known for its montaditos (small sandwiches) and extensive wine selection. Try the smoked salmon with yogurt and truffle honey for a unique flavour pairing. Tickets Bar – For a splurge-worthy meal, this creative tapas bar offers inventive dishes designed by one of the world’s top chefs, Albert Adrià. Make sure to book well in advance! Cost of Dining: A casual tapas meal can be around €20-€30 per person, while more upscale experiences can go up to €60 or more per person. Snacks and drinks at the stadium will set you back around €10-€15. Cultural Highlights for Football Fans When you’re not cheering on your team, Barcelona has no shortage of cultural sites to explore: Sagrada Família – Gaudí’s awe-inspiring basilica is an absolute must. It’s a bit pricey (around €26 for entry), but the intricate design and history are well worth it. Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) – Wander through medieval alleyways, visit the impressive Barcelona Cathedral, and take in the atmospheric vibes of this historic neighbourhood. Poble Espanyol – An open-air museum representing Spain’s architectural diversity, Poble Espanyol is a unique experience. It’s close to the Montjuïc area, so you can pair it with a visit to the Magic Fountain. Museu Picasso – If you’re a fan of art, the Picasso Museum offers insight into the artist’s early years. Tickets are around €12-€15 and free on Thursdays after 6 PM. Cost for Cultural Attractions: A day exploring these cultural hotspots can range between €40-€70, depending on entry fees and additional activities. Where to Drink and Catch Pre-Match Buzz Barcelona’s bar scene is second to none, with everything from boisterous pubs to chic cocktail spots: Bar Marsella – Known as Barcelona’s oldest bar, this Gothic Quarter institution serves up absinthe and old-world charm. Great for those looking for something different before or after the game. Fàbrica Moritz – A brewery that combines local craft beer with Catalan tapas, Fàbrica Moritz is a spacious spot with a lively, welcoming vibe. El Raval’s Craft Beer Spots – For craft beer lovers, El Raval neighbourhood has several great bars like Ale & Hop and Garage Beer Co., offering locally brewed options in a relaxed setting. Cost of Drinks: Expect to spend around €5-€7 per drink. If you’re planning a night out, €20-€30 should cover a few rounds. What to Expect on Match Day at Camp Nou Camp Nou is a cathedral of football, and match day here is an experience in itself. Here’s what you need to know: Before the Game: Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere. Fans gather around the stadium and fill the local bars. You can also visit the FC Barcelona Museum if you want a deeper dive into the club’s history (entry is around €25). Inside the Stadium: Prepare for the anthem “Cant del Barça” before kickoff—it’s an unforgettable moment as the entire stadium sings in unison. Spanish fans are passionate but respectful, so expect good-natured chants and cheers. Fan Etiquette: Catalan pride is significant here, so it’s appreciated if fans show respect for the local culture. Also, be cautious when wearing your team’s colours—it’s all part of the fun, but avoid heated discussions and show respect for the Barça tradition. Budget for an Away Day in Barcelona To help plan your budget, here’s an approximate cost breakdown for a day trip vs. a weekend: One-Day Budget (€100-€150) Meals – €30-€50 (a couple of tapas meals and a snack at Camp Nou) Metro Travel – €2.40 per journey, or a €10.50 travel card for 10 trips Stadium Ticket – €40-€90 depending on seat and opponent Extra Snacks/Drinks – €20-€30 for pre-game or post-game drinks Weekend Budget (€300-€400) Accommodation – €100-€150 per night for a mid-range hotel Meals – €60-€100 for tapas, local dining, and drinks Cultural Activities – €50 for one or two museum entries Stadium Ticket – €40-€90 for match entry Metro/Transport – €20 for a weekend travel card Dos and Don’ts in Barcelona DO: Try speaking a little Spanish or Catalan; locals appreciate the effort. Keep belongings secure, especially in crowded areas like La Rambla and near the stadium. Be respectful of the local traditions and avoid overly political conversations—football is serious here, but so is Catalan identity. DON’T: Get too close to street performers without tipping; it’s customary to offer a small coin if you stop to watch. Rely solely on taxis; Barcelona’s metro is fast and far cheaper. Forget

October 30, 2024

Pafos – The Mediterranean gem putting Cyprus’ new boys on the map

A town on the eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus is playing host to one of this years great European fairytales. Pafos FC are about to take their premier bow in Europe having qualified for the 2024/25 edition of the UEFA’s Conference League. We take a look at how they got there and just what makes Cyprus’ new boys and its home town an ideal awayday. Pafos FC – Who are they? The village of Paphos is 8th largest city in Cyprus and is a popular holidaying destination for British tourists, it would probably one of the last places you’d expect to find a gem of an away day. Pafos themselves are only a relatively new club at just 10 years old, founded in 2014. Pafos FC play their home games at the Stadio Stelios Kyriakides with a small capacity of just under 10,000. In fact, the city itself is only around 36,000 people meaning the whole population would fill just over 2/3 of Hampden. They are managed by ex- PSG, Sevilla and Arsenal assistant Juan Carlos Carcedo. With a squad value of around £20 million they are valued higher than all Scottish clubs outside of the big two. Last season the club won the Cypriot cup slotting them in to Europa League QR1. An 8-2 aggregate defeat saw them drop in to the Conference. A run of games saw them stroll to the league phase, seeing off the likes of CSKA Sofia and Cluj comfortably. This year in the newly revised league phase they will face some tough opposition, with the likes of Astana Lugano and Fiorentina. This year they have successfully broken the status quo of dominance from APOEL Nicosia and even that of recent success of their capital neighbours Omonia. This is a guide to seaside holiday resort turned Cypriot away day. Where to stay? How to get there? Around a 5 hour flight from Glasgow or Edinburgh you will arrive in Paphos which enjoys around 340 days of sunshine a year. Flights are offered by the likes of EasyJet and Jet2. Flights are usually on the steep side for Europe with anything under £150-200 a rarity. Expect to pay a going rate of £300 for a hotel/apartment for the week. You can bookthrough a package holiday or arrange flights and accommodation separately. While there it is highly recommended to hire a car, this can be done at a far cheaper rate compared to other European countries hence why doing so is so popular there. From experience, this unlocks your ability to see far more than you otherwise would have. This will likely only set you back €120 for the week. Paphos and its closely situated neighbouring villages all make an ideal resting point for your away day. Paphos will give you the ideal bustling city feel and many hotels are situated close to the stadium itself which is within Paphos’ old town. My tip however would be to stay in either neighbouring villages. A €2 bus journey from the main bus terminal takes you to Coral Bay or Peyia. Coral Bay features stunning beaches with the highlight being a 10 year old ship wreck enabling some exciting photo opportunities. For a typically Greek Cypriot feel, Peyia offers this with small Tavernas offering some of the best cuisine like that of Moussaka, Gyros and of course Halloumi. While not exactly being as cheap as many eastern European nations like Hungary or Poland. Cyprus is still relatively affordable. A meal will set you back around £20pp and a pint will set you back on average around €4. English is vastly spoken on the Island with all road signs featuring English translations from Greek so don’t sweat if your Greek isn’t up to scratch. Cyprus – What is there to do outside of football… You would be forgiven for coming to the conclusion that due to a mass influx of British tourism that the island would be awashed with Irish bars and €1 pints. While this is very much the case it is well worth highlighting that there is far more to both Paphos and Cyprus than just this. As an ex-commonwealth nation, as you can imagine, Cyprus is steeped in politics both old and new. The island still plays host to two RAF bases within British annexes on the island. In addition to this, the lesser known Turkish sector of the Island cut off after the 1974 invasion is well worth a visit and is situated through the northern half of the capital Nicosia around a two hour drive north of Paphos. Furthermore, within the checkpoint between the Cypriot republic and the Turkish third lies an area known as “no mans land”, or the U.N’s “Green line”, which stretches the entire width of the country, is designed to segregate both sides. Untouched since that day in 1974, the area is as wide as a football pitch in the capital and as sparse as that of 180kms wide. For any history or politics buffs it is well worth experiencing.

October 22, 2024

Away Days