Short-Term Rentals Crackdown: Stek says a Cyprus Audit Office report confirms long-standing concerns: weak supervision of online short-term rental platforms is risking visitor safety and damaging tourism quality, renewing calls for tougher enforcement and a legislative overhaul. Schengen Push: Cyprus’ Schengen accession is set to go before the EU Council in September after the European Commission adopted a “positive assessment” of readiness. Protaras Property Demand: Protaras holiday homes are marketed as a high-demand investment near the beach, with prices starting from €168,000 + VAT and new marina and resort branding boosting appeal. Border-Queue Reality Check (EES): The EU’s Entry/Exit System is already causing up to five-hour border-control queues at some airports, and a new EES-based ETIAS rollout for UK travellers has been delayed to at least 2027. Tourism & Peace Diplomacy: UN Secretary-General António Guterres is expected to visit Cyprus on July 27-28, meeting both leaders and bicommunal bodies—an important signal for the island’s broader stability. Regional Shipping Risk: The Strait of Hormuz remains volatile after renewed US-Iran strikes and claims of shipping disruption, with a Cyprus-flagged container vessel cited in the latest escalation. Sports Spotlight: Cyprus will send 36 athletes to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow starting July 23.