Cyprus Makes National Geographic’s List Of Top Family-Friendly Mediterranean Islands

Cyprus has been named one of the Mediterranean’s most family-friendly islands by National Geographic Traveller, which highlighted its mix of beaches, archaeological sites and protected natural landscapes.

A Family Destination Beyond The Beach

The island was included alongside Majorca, Rhodes, Gozo, Kefalonia, Corsica and Sardinia in a selection of seven Mediterranean destinations recommended for family travel.

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National Geographic identified Paphos as an ideal base for families, citing its combination of beaches, boat trips, ancient Greek and Roman sites and easy access to the coast.

History, Nature And Beach Time

Among the highlights is the UNESCO-listed Tombs of the Kings, where visitors can explore underground chambers carved into rock.

The publication also pointed to Avakas Gorge and Akamas National Forest Park for walking and outdoor activities, while Lara Beach was recognised for its soft sand, clear water and seasonal turtle hatchlings between May and August.

Other Islands On The List

Majorca was recognised for outdoor activities, Rhodes for its villages and watersports, Gozo for its archaeological heritage, Kefalonia for its mountain scenery and coastline, Corsica for its dramatic landscapes, and Sardinia for combining beaches with historical and cultural attractions.

A Broader Trend In Family Travel

According to National Geographic Traveller, the featured destinations offer more than traditional beach holidays, combining outdoor activities, history and cultural experiences for families.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Shein Targets $25 Billion Valuation In Hong Kong IPO As Growth Slows

by News Editor

August 17, 2026

Shein is reportedly targeting a valuation of around $25 billion in its planned Hong Kong IPO, a sharp decline from the nearly $100 billion valuation the online fashion retailer achieved in a 2022 fundraising round.

Two people familiar with the plans said the company was likely to target about $25 billion, while another source put the expected range at $25 billion to $28 billion based on the proposed price band.

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IPO Valuation Falls Sharply

Shein plans to sell up to 8% of its shares in the offering, according to a person familiar with the plans. At a $25 billion valuation, that would translate into an IPO of as much as $2 billion.

The latest target is also below the $30 billion to $40 billion valuation the company was seeking earlier this month as it began meeting with potential investors.

Founded in China in 2012 and now headquartered in Singapore, Shein sells low-cost clothing to consumers in about 160 countries. The company is expected to launch its long-awaited Hong Kong IPO later this week.

Trade Restrictions Weigh On Growth

Shein’s valuation has come under pressure as major markets tighten rules affecting low-cost e-commerce shipments. The European Union, for example, has moved to impose additional fees on cheap parcels from platforms such as Shein and Temu. EU Tightens Rules On Low-Cost E-Commerce Parcels

In the U.S., the removal of an import duty exemption for small packages has also affected the company. Shein reported a $99 million quarterly loss in the first quarter of 2026 as sales growth slowed, while a one-time accounting charge further weighed on its results. Shein Reports First-Quarter Loss Ahead Of IPO

Investors Question Shein’s Growth Prospects

The steep reduction in valuation reflects growing concerns over slower growth, higher trade costs, regulatory pressure and stronger competition across global e-commerce.

Some investors who reviewed Shein’s recent financial statements or attended IPO presentations told Reuters they were skeptical that the company could return to the growth rates that supported its $98.2 billion valuation in 2022. Shein’s Slowing Growth Tests Investor Appetite

A lower IPO valuation could also affect Shein’s existing investors. Under the terms of its IPO filing, the company may have to issue additional shares to certain pre-IPO investors if its valuation falls below agreed thresholds.

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