CYPRUS. Cyprus Duty Free has unveiled a cocktail experience at Larnaca International Airport to mark today’s World Cocktail Day (13 May).
Developed in partnership with Cypriot brands Iris Blue and Ovis, the Cyprus-inspired activation combines bartender-led tastings with a curated menu designed to reflect the flavours, colours and atmosphere of the country.
The line-up features six signature serves – Crimson Drift, Iris Symphony, Blooming Rose, Warm Wave, Aromatic Sensation and Eternal Journey – created using locally produced Ovis whiskey and Iris Blue botanical gin.
The cocktails incorporate local ingredients such as rose cordial, Cypriot honey syrup, citrus, herbs and floral notes, offering travellers a distinctly local tasting experience within the airport environment.
The initiative forms part of Cyprus Duty Free’s broader sense of place strategy and its Kypriaka platform, which aims to embed Cypriot culture and hospitality into the passenger journey.
Central to the concept is the tradition of filoxenia (φιλοξενία), reflecting the island’s culture of warmth, welcome and hospitality.
Cyprus Duty Free Marketing Manager Katerina Panayiotova said: “This experience was about capturing the feeling of Cyprus and bringing that into the passenger journey in a warm, authentic and memorable way. The name of each cocktail was inspired by the first sip when we tried them.”
“Through Kypriaka, we want travellers to experience the hospitality, flavours and emotional connection that make Cyprus special from the moment they enter the airport.
“From locally crafted spirits to in-store ingredients inspired by the island itself, every detail was created to give passengers a genuine taste of Cyprus before they travel.”
Cyprus Duty Free noted this latest sense of place initiative aligns with its ‘Joy On Your Way’ positioning through experiences inspired by the flavour, hospitality and spirit of Cyprus. ✈
