A Traveller’s Guide to Cyprus

One of the best destinations for a Summer holiday, and for a romantic trip in 2013, Cyprus is also one of the more unique countries in the Mediterranean. Formerly a British colony, the island of Cyprus is now divided between its Northern, Turkish region, and its Greek region to the South - most tourists head for the South, where you can find historic cities like Nicosia, as well as regions such as Famagusta, Limassol and Paphos that are famous for their beaches and countryside attractions.

Cyprus Plug Outlets

When visiting Cyprus, it’s worth making a stop off at Nicosia, it’s largest city, and the only city in Europe that’s still officially divided between two different states - the Turkish North, and the Greek South. While tensions are still there, visitors can obtain visas to move between the two parts of the city, which itself is home to great architecture, ancient Venetian walls, and a thriving food and drink culture.

Other ways to see Cyprus include staying in the Famagusta region - this is home to some of Cyprus’s best beaches and places to explore in foot, which includes the Cape Greco sea caves and nature reserves. British tourists traditionally descend on the Famagusta resort of Agia Napa every year, which rivals Ibiza for clubbing popularity, and is one of the more inexpensive places to go for a partying holiday.

However, if clubbing’s not quite your thing, you can also seek some peace and quiet in Cyprus’s Troodos Mountains, where you can resorts, miles of virtually untouched land, and historic villages like Kakopetria. Ancient Kourin is also worth visiting for its preserved ampitheatre, as is Ancient Salamis. The Agia Mavri winery, which is near to the Troodos Mountains, is similarly recommended if you want to go on a tasting tour. Longer stays in Cyprus can be particularly enjoyable if you take the time to camp and explore its quiet inland areas, which is particularly the case if you head to the South of the island for a week or two.

Exploring the Western coast of Cyprus means taking in Akamas’ many walking and cycling paths, as well as its small villages and traditional way of life. Cypriot food includes traditional taverna dishes of the kind you’d find in Greece and the Greek Islands, as well as strong coffee and diverse local produce. For more ambitious travellers, consider hiking some of the long distance walking path that runs from Larnaka right up to Budapest in Hungary.

Cyprus is also ideal for a quick romantic getaway - the island has a wide range of boutique hotels and resorts to spend time in, with some of the best including the Thelassa Boutique Hotel and the Londa Hotel in Limassol City; these, and other resorts and hotels in Cyprusprovide you with access to beaches and private pools, as well as free wi fi, luxury meals, jacuzzis, and perennial warm weather.