Far from being known around the world only for its classy wine, Cyprus is a destination that offers a memorable action-packed holiday.
This island, which measures 9,250 square kilometres and lies in the north-eastern corner of the Mediterranean Sea, is located 96 kilometres west of the Syrian coast, 75 kilometres from the Turkish and 325 kilometres north of the Egyptian coast.
It has a mighty, rich and a turbulent history and relics still exist on the island that boasts three UNESCO World heritage sites.
Nicosia, the island’s capital since the 10th century has been inhabited for over 4,500 years. Historically, two main communities have lived together — Greeks from the Greek Orthodox community and Turkish Muslims.
But sadly, Nicosia was torn apart by bloody inter-communal violence in 1963, and that resulted in the birth of state of Turkish-controlled North Cyprus. Greeks control the other half of the original Cyprus.
Consequently, following the unilateral declaration of independence (UDI) the northern part of the city — Northern Nicosia — became the official capital of the tearaway state called the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus with its own infrastructure and political administration.
The international community says this is occupied Cypriot territory and has refused to recognise it.
Since then, there has been no love lost between Turkish and Greek Cypriots.
After the troubles, the two communities — which used to live together in harmony — moved away to their respective states.
A Green Line divides Nicosia and the two states.
If you are looking for a beach where you can sink your feet into the warm sand and sparkling Mediterranean waters, then this is the place.
Cyprus boasts an expansive coastline — a variety of beaches ranging from lively resorts, secluded bays, rock coves and of course, sandy beaches.
I soon realised that Cyprus is more than just beach resorts for a lazy holiday.
It is multi-dimensional, just like its history, and has a compelling lifestyle, culture and a stunning landscape.
Being an island, one cannot miss a myriad of activities featuring water sports.
There is a chance to discover the magic of the underwater world by snorkelling or diving, windsurfing and sailing.
Coastal cruising and deep-water fishing add value to the vacation.
Visit the water park for a thrilling experience. Pump up your adrenaline with bungee-jumping and add extra sensation to your holiday.
Among the beaches with record crowds are Phinikoudes Beach, ranked as the top attraction; Konnos Beach known for its stunning scenery and the small Agia Thekla Beach. Fig Tree Beach is also very popular.
All of them boast the coveted Blue Flag for cleanliness and safety. The east coast is well-known for its white sandy beaches with turquoise waters, deep water bays and rocky outcrops perfect for snorkelling and diving. The grey sand beaches on the south coast are ideal for long walks or jogging while the western coast beckons those who want to spend time in the tranquility of secluded coves.
Nicosia has built a reputation as the island’s financial capital and the main hub of global business. It is the heart and soul of modern-day Cyprus. It has historic and archaeological sites and is divided in to old and new city.
The old city, surrounded by a three-mile wall, was built by the Venetians around 1570. The wall has three gates — Paphos Gate, Famagusta Gate and Kyrenia Gate — which opens into the Turkish-occupied Nicosia as well as eleven heart-shaped symmetric bastions.
The Famagusta Gate, with its two halls and passageway is Nicosia’s cultural centre, is worth a visit. The UN mans the controlled entrance to buffer zone at The Paphos Gate.
I found the narrow streets of the old city a fascinating experience to look around. The city’s Ledra Street, which was closed down during the political troubles following the 1974 Turkish invasion, was turned into a buffer zone between the two states.
It has been reopened and you can wander its whole length at your leisure. There are many attractions in Nicosia, particularly the restored Büyük Han or the Great Inn in the old town which is a 16th century Ottoman inn with shops and cafes. The Cyprus Handicraft Centre is worth a visit. Here you can buy Cypriot handicrafts.
The site of the Electric Generating Plant is now the Municipal Arts Centre for Contemporary Art.
There are many museums in Nicosia — The Leventus Municipal Museum has exhibits dating back from 2000BC. The Cyprus Museum is the richest and best archaeological museum on the island.
The Byzantine Art Museum in the Archbishop’s Palace houses the largest collection of Cyprus icons from the 5th to 19th centuries.
Cyprus Jewellers Museum, the Museum of The History of Cyprus Coinage, Cyprus Postal Museum are all worth a visit.
You can take in a 360-degree view of Nicosia at the Ledra Museum Observatory from the 11th floor of the Shakolas Building on Ledra Street.
A visit to Nicosia is incomplete without a shopping trip. There is plenty on offer along Arch Makarios Avenue in the Old City.
Cypriot food is heavily influenced by Greek, Turkish and Middle East cuisines. Walk down any street and you cannot miss kebab shops. Cypriot taverns are popular and offer local Greek and Turkish dishes.
There are many Indian, Mexican, Chinese, Italian and Japanese restaurants throughout Cyprus. Judging by the European and United States standards, Cyprus is relatively crime-free.
Cypriots speak Greek and Turkish depending on their origin. English is also spoken.
