With the turbulence in all the worlds? financial markets and the hangovers from the sub prime mortgage disaster still fresh in everyone's mind, it is hardly surprising that the property (real estate) market in Cyprus has shown a dip in recent months, along with almost all other western countries. But being one of the top tourist destinations in Europe, I think the market will survive better than most.

Everyone wants a dream holiday home in the sun and there are few better places than Cyprus, especially when it comes to winter and summer destinations. Even in mid winter the average maximum temperature is 16 degrees, giving a welcome respite to visitors from the cold of northern Europe.

There are still many bargains to be had and it is not hard to find a nice, ready to move into apartment for sale for between sixty and seventy thousand euros ( about 50,000 UK pounds or 100,000 USD), complete with communal pool. Beautiful Cyprus villas can be purchased for the price of a small terrace in a regional English town.

Cyprus off plan developments offer some particularly good deals, with value for money projects being built inland away from the major resorts, therefore maximising your money. Many are in or nearby attractive traditional villages where you are certain to get a warm welcome from the friendly inhabitants. Buyers generally get more property for their money, with good size rooms and plenty of extras included in the price such as; double glazing, air conditioning (or at least provision for), fitted kitchen, marble floors and staircase and solar heating panel.

Golf property in Cyprus is another favourite with frontline villas and luxurious apartments and penthouses commanding top prices around the first class golf courses and resorts. If you include access to private or communal swimming pools, what else could anyone possibly need?

Becoming more popular for those that have decided to take the plunge and buy a property in Cyprus, are 3 or 4 day Inspection trips or tours, where you will be escorted by bilingual experts to visit everything in your own price range. Many are subsidised by local developers and agents or offer refunds on flights and hotels once the buyer puts pen to paper and signs the contract.

Getting to Cyprus is very easy now as many regional UK airports have flights direct to either Paphos and Larnaca airport, although it has to be said they are not the cheapest tickets around, so you would do well to avoid the peak holiday season.