Cyprus

• 2.Asia

Cyprus is a nice and relaxing country and a good beach destination. I visited the city of Larnaca and the island's top beach resort, Ayia Napa. The general vibe was similar to that of Greek beaches but with a livelier atmosphere. Pretty cool.

Larnaca has a nice promenade that comes alive at night with live music, restaurants, cafes, shops and people enjoying themselves. The Larnaca Salt Lake, which dries up in Summer, is an interesting geographical feature that used to provide one of the country's main exports in older times.

In Larnaca you'll also find the Church of Saint Lazarus which was built over the reputed second tomb of biblical figure Lazarus of Bethany (who had fled to Cyprus to escape persecution after being resurrected by Jesus, and went on to live there for another thirty years, as the story goes). You can also visit the tomb of Saint Lazarus, located under the church.

Ayia Napa has very good beaches with fine white sand, warm blue waters and all the amenities you need: water sports facilities, cool beach bars, beach chairs and umbrellas, etc. There are many available options with Nissi beach (more crowded but livlier) and Konnos Bay Beach (secluded and more scenic) being some of the best in the area. Other good options include Makronissos, Sandy Bay, Landa and Pantachou beaches. A quick trip to nearby Cape Greco features some scenic landscapes. Ayia Napa also presents many ways to have fun at night from cool clubs with good music to countless dining options, a theme park, shops, cafes and more.

The road from Larnaca to Ayia Napa passes through Dhekelia Sovereign Base Area, one of two British overseas territories located on Cyprus island, which is kind of interesting (the other one is Akrotiri SBA, located to the East); both include British military bases and installations. There are no controls or formalities for crossing.

Another interesting fact - Cyprus is the only EU member which is geographically located in Asia.

Food is good with local delicacy grilled halloumi cheese being my favorite; I had it with almost every meal while on the island. Local versions of halva were also very good, as were the island's olives, figs and the sweet commandaria wine.

Additional info:
- country entry on Wikipedia
- country profile on Wikivoyage

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