Cyprus

Cyprus has something to offer every holidaymaker. Its stunning coastline has lots of fantastic beaches and resorts for those who want little more than a week of sun, sea and sand. For history buffs, the island is also full of ancient relics and interesting ruins.
The pace of life is slow, the food is cheap and delicious and the weather's superb for most of the year. No wonder it's a favourite holiday destination for the Brits.

Beaches in Cyprus
There are some truly wonderful beaches around one of the main resorts, Paphos. In fact, six of them have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag, namely Pachyammos, Vrysoudia A, Vrysoudia B, Alykes, Municipal Bath and Farros. They're all good, family friendly beaches with lots of watersports, and plenty of nearby cafes and restaurants when you fancy some lunch. Nearby Coral Bay is also attractive.
Dassoudi is the main beach in Limassol where you'll find changing rooms, a snack bar, a restaurant, a car park and again, lots of water sports.
Ayia Napa, probably the most famous resort on the island, has a lovely fine sand beach where you can try water-skiing, wind-surfing, sailing, kayaking and parasailing or hire pedalos, motor boats and speed-boats.

Sightseeing in Cyprus
Many different civilisations left their mark on Cyprus, so there's a wealth of superb historical sights. There are frescoed Byzantine churches in the Troodos mountains which are on the World Heritage list and the third century Tombs of the Kings and Roman mosaics near Paphos are certainly worth a visit.
Elsewhere, visit the ancient temples of Kition near Larnaca and the impressive castle and ancient city of Kourion near Limassol.
The capital, Lefkosia (previously Nicosia), is also very interesting. You can learn about Cypriot history at the fantastic Cyprus Museum and marvel at some more frescoes at St John's Cathedral.

Shopping in Cyprus
There are handicraft centres in most major towns. Popular souvenirs include leather goods, ceramics, lace, jewellery, spectacles and home-made honey and sweets. are all good buys.
Or you could relive drunken holiday nights back home in the UK by purchasing a couple bottles of the favourite local tipple, ouzo, the Filfar orange liquer or Cpyriot brandy.Eating out in Cyprus
Cypriot food has Middle Eastern, Turkish and Greek influences and without doubt, the best way to truly get a taste of island cuisine is to order a fish or meat meze. The local cheese, halloumi, is delicious grilled. Fish is excellent and is served grilled, fried, plain or spicy. Also sample grilled lamb or chicken known as souvla, or sausages called shieftlalies.
Traditional coffee shops are dotted all over the island. The waterfront in Paphos is a lovely spot for a romantic dinner. In the major resorts, the big hotels and several seafront cafes and restaurants will have more of an international menu, so you'll be able to find some good old English grub if you're pining for it.

Nightlife in Cyprus
If you're after top DJs and thumping beats then there's only one Cypriot destination for you - Ayia Napa on the east coast. The resort received a bad press for a few years but they've really cleaned up their act and the focus these is purely on wonderful music and pulsating clubs. Many are drawn to this resort because of its profusion of English-style restaurants, cafes and Irish pubs.
Larnaca's seafront and promenade is also a hotbed of action, following by Limassol and Paphos. There's everything from tavernas, cafes, bars and discos. If you want a complete alternative, head to Nicosia which boasts more cosmopolitan surroundings.

Family activities in Cyprus
Cyprus is a great family destination and, above all else, family is very important to Cypriots and children are welcome in cafes and restaurants at all hours. The beaches and watersports should keep most children happy, but if not, there's an aquarium in Paphos.
In Ayia Napa, there's a go-kart centre, a dolphin marine park, a bowling alley, a mini golf club and the Waterworld Park.

Day trips in Cyprus
It's definitely worth exploring the Troodos mountains during your stay. They're high enough to be capped with snow during winter and there are some breathtaking views and lovely walks too. Head for Platres surrounded by pine forests, villages, waterfalls and jaw-dropping vantage points.
From Larnaca and Limassol, boat trips can be arranged from the marina. The Zenobia shipwreck is a popular excursion among divers. From Paphos, book a trip to the Yeronisos islands for the chance to gawp at beautiful coastlines and sea caves, as well as enjoy a swim in a secluded bay.