Cyprus

Cyprus enjoys an intense Mediterranean climate with long dry summers from mid-May to mid-October, with hot sun and clear blue skies, and mild winters from December to February, separated by very short spring and autumn seasons. The sea breezes and create a pleasant atmosphere in coastal areas. Winters are mild with some rain and snow in the Troodos Mountains (around Christmas). Even in December and January there is an average of six hours of bright sunshine a day.

The Famagusta District if on the island's east coast and was once the main port of Cyprus and a very popular tourist resort with the best beaches on the island. After the Turkish invasion of 1974, the areas of Ayia Napa and Protaras were redeveloped to become one of the largest resort areas on the island. These areas have now become a big draw for sun seekers and watersports enthusiasts. Ayia Napa, only a 15 minute drive from our apartment, is best known for its colourful shops, clubs, restaurants, and bars but not so long ago it was just a small fishing village. It still has a small fishing fleet and harbour, surrounded by Tavernas specialising in fresh fish cuisine.

There are quieter places too. Cape Greko, is a promontory jutting out into the sea, where you can experience the most amazing sunsets and is worth a visit just to appreciate the sheer tranquillity and brilliant azure of a crystal clear sea, which is incredibly warm in the summer/autumn.

Going west, one can view the recently uncovered ancient tombs of Macronissos or if you travel slightly inland, you will see many ancient village churches, dating from the 13th century. The craft of basketmaking carries on at Liopetri, and just east of the village of Xylofagou is the picturesque inlet of Potamos, home to a small fleet of fishing boats, where you can have a quiet lunch and cold beer whilst watching the fishermen mend their nets before setting sail for the evening.