Cyprus

I’m thinking about Cyprus this week, since a friend of mine is going on a cultural exchange program there in just a few days. I’m excited for her, because I’ve had a little taste of what she’s in for. She’ll be staying near Limassol and, if she’s anything like me, her stay won’t be anywhere near long enough.

I found the Greek Cypriot people to be so warm and friendly, so kind and giving, and they have such a great sense of humour, that I could have easily stayed a year. I felt so at home there and it wasn’t just down to the Mediterranean sunshine.




I fell in love with the golden sand beaches and the warm, salty water, so clear you could see forever.






Because the water is so gorgeous, you had a hard time getting me out of it at all. The snorkelling and scuba diving there are first rate. Visibility is forever and the creatures are so beautiful, with a wide variety of flora and fauna placing themselves on display. I easily spent full days under the surface of the ocean, exploring. The experience was absolutely amazing – breathtaking!







But if scuba’s not your thing (and how could it not be? It’s so incredible!), there is plenty to do on the surface of the ocean: jet ski, paragliding, swimming, sailing, etc. You will never be bored in Cyprus.




I hope my friend has the opportunity to see Capo Greco.


It is a picturesque (with 30-some varieties of orchids), protected national park and is famous for its sea caves. The scenery is spectacular – stunning cliffs dropping down to crystal blue sea.

A word of advice when you go to Capo Greco: always carry a bottle of water with you, as the sun can take it out of you before you know it, and be careful not to step on the tiny but beautiful lizards that make their homes in the rocks.


There are some beautiful places of worship on the island and they are well worth seeing, as I’m sure my friend will. Out of respect for the faith of the Cypriot people, it is expected that visitors to any place of worship will show the courtesy of not wearing bathing suits or skimpy hot pants and strappy sun tops inside the church (it is expected that you will cover up with long pants and long sleeved shirt), and will obtain permission before taking flash photographs, as the flash can, over time, ruin artefacts and murals.



If you have the opportunity to attend a worship service, that’s even better. Greek Orthodox is the predominant faith throughout the non-Turkish part of the island. According to the Acts of the Apostles it was founded by Barnabas, Paul, and Mark (45 A.D.). The presence and the contribution of the Orthodox Church are significant to the historical, cultural and social life of Cyprus and the Church’s presence is felt throughout the culture, which is, I’m sure, one of the reasons why these people are so generous and loving.


Like I said, I’m envious of my friend and I’m cheering her on all the way. I hope she falls in love with Cyprus like I did.