Can you imagine if Cancun went dark for 50 years? Well, that’s exactly what happened to a once-popular Mediterranean resort town. Unless you’ve been completely out of touch, you probably know there are some places you just can’t visit easily. North Korea is one, but did you know there’s a former vacation hotspot that’s been off-limits for decades?
In 1974, Varosha in Northern Cyprus was invaded by Turkish military forces, causing locals and tourists to flee. No one could have predicted that this bustling resort town, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious resorts, would be closed off for 50 years. That’s why it’s big news that Varosha is reopening after such a long time.
This isn’t your typical ghost town. While it’s not unusual for popular vacation spots to make a comeback, like Acapulco, sitting idle for 50 years raises a lot of questions. Recently, Cyprus has become a popular destination for travelers, but many might not know that the island has two sides. The main part of Cyprus is open and welcoming, but the northeastern side is recognized by Turkey as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, while the UN considers it a territory under Turkish occupation. This makes the situation complicated, even with the reopening.
Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is the last European capital to be divided by walls, highlighting the complexity of the situation. Northern Cyprus is moving forward with the reopening. Turkish Cypriot Prime Minister Unal Ustel announced plans to reopen the entire town of Varosha, despite concerns.
Reopening a town that’s been abandoned for 50 years is no small feat. It’s not like flipping a switch. Safety is a major concern, and the city isn’t fully ready for tourists yet. However, there are reports of $10 billion in funds for a massive makeover. The goal is to transform Varosha into the ‘Las Vegas of the Mediterranean,’ but there’s a long way to go. Right now, it might feel more like the ‘Cuba of the Mediterranean,’ with classic 1970s cars still on display.
If you visit now, you’ll see thousands of empty homes, shops, hotels, entertainment venues, theaters, and banks. Varosha is in the early stages of a comeback, but it’s far from the Mediterranean paradise you might imagine. However, if you’re interested in history, abandoned places, and political complexities, Varosha offers a unique experience. Since 2020, over 1.8 million people have visited for tours, which can be booked for $38 from Famagusta.
So, would you visit Varosha now? It’s a tough question. If you’re looking for a traditional beach vacation, it’s not the place for you. But if you’re intrigued by history and the idea of a city frozen in time, slowly coming back to life, Varosha could be a fascinating destination.