I've had my fair share of luxury travel experiences, from staying at celebrity-loved hotels to spending one night on the Orient Express of the 21st century.
09.02.2024 - 20:18 / forbes.com
Northern Cyprus is a curious place for locals and travelers alike. It’s not quite Turkiye but the northern—or some might say some might day the Turkish—half of Cyprus offers visitors all the best parts of Turkiye with offers visitors some of the best parts of Turkish culture with the added bonus of great year-round weather and legal casinos.
The Kaya Palazzo Resort & Casino, Kyrenia is a standout example of the infamous Turkish hospitality combined with the luxury and excitement that comes with a hotel-casino. It’s a veritable Las Vegas in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea—and it’s only an hour's flight from Istanbul.
In order to get a better feel for the Northern Cyprus hotel scene, we spoke to Mustafa Kirtas, Sales Supervisor, Kaya Palazzo Resort & Casino, Kyrenia, who left his native Turkiye to work in hospitality in Northern Cyprus and hasn’t looked back.
Here’s what he had to say about living and working in the lesser-known vacation destination in the Mediterranean:
What sets the Kaya Palazzo Resort & Casino, Kyrenia apart from other hotels in the neighborhood?
“Kaya Palazzo Resort & Casino, Kyrenia stands out from other hotels in the area with its inspiration from the Palace of Versailles in France. Noteworthy features include its waterfront location, elegant design, luxurious accommodations, swim-up rooms, and exclusive services,” explains Mustafa Kirtas, Sales Supervisor, Kaya Palazzo Resort & Casino, Kyrenia.
“The hotel's distinctive elements extend to its private restaurants, spa facilities, and entertainment options. The rooms, reflecting the palace's grace and unique designs, offer guests a singular experience with the expansive gardens and detailed architectural elements.”
What are your personal favorite things about working in Northern Cyprus?
“My main reason for working in Northern Cyprus is the presence of hotels in the tourism sector offering services throughout the year,” says Kirtas. “The region's nearly 300 days of sunny and mild climate, cultural diversity, and untouched natural beauty contribute to the appeal. The safe and tranquil lifestyle, closely connected to nature, is another factor in my preference for living here.”
Is there a specific room or suite that is the most requested? What makes it so special?
“In our hotel, all suite rooms feature a Jacuzzi in the bedroom, particularly favored by honeymoon couples. Especially during the summer, our Swim Up rooms with private pools are highly sought after,” he explains. “The most prominent room is our Royal Spa Suite Swim Up, boasting a hamam, steam room, massage room, private garden, direct sea view, and dressing room.”
The personality of a hotel is so important. What would you say is the personality of the Kaya Palazzo
I've had my fair share of luxury travel experiences, from staying at celebrity-loved hotels to spending one night on the Orient Express of the 21st century.
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Sarah Faith is a content and values writer at activist travel company, Responsible Travel.
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