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Multi-Million Euro Deal In Paphos: Old American Academy Transformed Into British-Owned Educational Institution

In a significant development for Cyprus’ educational landscape, the historic American Academy in Paphos has been sold and will be transformed into a British-owned educational institution. This multi-million euro deal marks a pivotal moment for the local education sector, promising to elevate the standards and reputation of Paphos as a hub for high-quality international education.

The American Academy, a landmark institution in Paphos, has long been revered for its commitment to academic excellence and community service. Its transformation under British ownership is set to introduce a new era of educational innovation and international collaboration. The acquisition by British interests underscores the growing appeal of Cyprus as a destination for international education investment, driven by its strategic location, favourable climate, and robust educational framework.

The new British educational institution will benefit from substantial investments aimed at upgrading and expanding the existing infrastructure. These enhancements will include state-of-the-art classrooms, modern science laboratories, advanced sports facilities, and comprehensive digital learning environments. The focus will be on creating a holistic educational experience that combines academic rigour with extracurricular development, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the globalised world.

The institution will offer a diverse curriculum designed to meet international standards, providing students with opportunities to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB), A-Levels, and other globally recognised qualifications. This curriculum will not only attract local students but also appeal to the expatriate community and international students seeking high-quality education in a supportive and multicultural environment.

One of the key aspects of this transformation is the emphasis on fostering strong ties between the educational institution and the local community. The British owners are committed to maintaining the legacy of the American Academy by continuing its tradition of community engagement and social responsibility. This includes partnerships with local businesses, cultural organisations, and government bodies to promote educational initiatives and community development projects.

The investment in the Paphos educational sector is expected to have a broader economic impact, generating employment opportunities for local educators, administrative staff, and support services. It will also attract families and professionals to the region, boosting the local economy and contributing to the socio-economic development of Paphos.

Furthermore, the presence of a high-calibre British educational institution in Paphos will enhance the city’s reputation as a centre for academic excellence and innovation. It will draw international attention, positioning Paphos as a competitive destination for educational tourism. This is particularly significant in the context of the global education market, where parents and students are increasingly seeking schools that offer a blend of rigorous academics, cultural exposure, and holistic development.

The transformation of the American Academy into a British-owned institution reflects the broader trends of globalisation and international collaboration in education. It signifies a commitment to providing students with a world-class education that equips them with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Cyprus Hits Historic Tourism Peak As Overtourism Risks Mount

Record-Breaking Performance In Tourism

Cyprus’ tourism sector achieved unprecedented success in 2025 with record-breaking arrivals and revenues. According to Eurobank analyst Konstantinos Vrachimis, the island’s performance was underpinned by solid real income growth and enhanced market diversification.

Robust Growth In Arrivals And Revenues

Total tourist arrivals reached 4.5 million in 2025, rising 12.2% from 4 million in 2024, with momentum sustained through the final quarter. Tourism receipts for the January–November period climbed to €3.6 billion, marking a 15.3% year-on-year increase that exceeded inflation. The improvement was not driven by volume alone. Average expenditure per visitor increased by 4.6%, while daily spending rose by 9.2%, indicating stronger purchasing power and higher-value tourism activity.

Economic Impact And Diversification Of Source Markets

The stronger performance translated into tangible gains for the broader services economy, lifting real tourism-related income and overall sector turnover. Demand patterns are also shifting. While the United Kingdom remains Cyprus’ largest source market, its relative share has moderated as arrivals from Israel, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Austria, and Poland have expanded. This gradual diversification reduces dependency on a single market and strengthens resilience against external shocks.

Enhanced Air Connectivity And Seasonal Dynamics

Air connectivity has improved markedly in 2025, with flight volumes expanding substantially compared to 2019. This expansion is driven by increased airline capacity, enhanced route coverage, and more frequent flights, supporting demand during shoulder seasons and reducing overreliance on peak-month flows. Seasonal patterns remain prominent, with arrivals building through the spring and peaking in summer, thereby bolstering employment, fiscal receipts, and corporate earnings across hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.

Structural Risks And Future Considerations

Despite strong headline figures, structural challenges remain. The European Commission’s EU Tourism Dashboard highlights tourism intensity, seasonality, and market concentration as key risk indicators. Cyprus records a high ratio of overnight stays relative to its resident population, signalling potential overtourism pressures. Continued reliance on a limited group of origin markets also exposes the sector to geopolitical uncertainty and sudden demand swings. Seasonal peaks place additional strain on infrastructure, housing availability, labour supply, and natural resources, particularly water.

Strategic Investment And Market Resilience

Vrachimis concludes that sustained growth will depend on targeted investment, product upgrading, and continued market diversification. Strengthening year-round offerings, improving infrastructure capacity, and promoting higher-value experiences can help balance demand while preserving long-term competitiveness. These measures are essential not only to manage overtourism risks but also to ensure tourism remains a stable pillar of Cyprus’ economic development.

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