Everyone has their own bucket list. With so many plans being made, it’s always nice to share the thrill and excitement with loved ones.

Why not let a friend tag along in your next life-changing adventure?

First things first—you must know where you’re headed. If you’re looking for the unexpected, then Cyprus has a lot to give.

The Republic of Cyrus is located in the east of the Mediterranean. Hunter-gatherers were the first settlers in the country back in 10,000 BC. Mycenaean Greeks established their nation in Cyprus during the Bronze Age.

But it was the Roman Empire that ruled over the land for hundreds of years from the Crusades to the Venetian Rule.

In a much later time, the British Colony and Turkish invaders made Cyprus their own. Only in August 1960 was Cyprus able to declare their independence. The country has another story to tell if one dares to see beyond.

WHAT’S NEW AT THE OLD TOWN

The first stop for travellers is the coastal town of Limassol. Bordered by the cities of Amathus and Kourion, Limassol is considered as the second largest metropolis next to Nicosia. You can roam around town by riding a bicycle or a scooter.

Learn more about the history of Cyprus when you visit the Limassol Castle at the Old Town. The medieval structure was constructed in 1193, under the order of Guy de Lusignan. It served as a royal palace and a prison cell in its early years. Now it is called The Cyprus Medieval Museum, home of historical artefacts from the Early Christian Era to the Ottoman Empire.

Near the Limassol Castle, you will come across modern lifestyle districts at the Anexartisias Street and the Saripolou Square. These stops are ideal for travellers who want to shop or experience the nightlife in town.

There are so many things to cross off your list. Dine in at the Columbia Steakhouse, have a drink at 7 Seas Night Club, sip a coffee at Plaza Café, and enjoy a sumptuous Italian cuisine at La Boca Restaurant—all located in the Columbia Plaza at the Old Town.

For an upgraded experience, Limassol Marina has a coastal front located in the old port. Have a gastronomic meal paired with wine and cocktails at the Crystal Marina Lounge, chill out with a cup of Italian coffee at Café Nero, delight yourself with a fresh seafood meal at Pyxida Fish Tavern, do your work out at Sanctum Spa & Fitness or go on a yacht cruise at the Mediterranean.

LIFE’S A BEACH

What is a vacation without the beach? The ideal way to seize the day is unwinding in a paradise-like destination. Cyprus has variety of beach destinations waiting for you.
Protaras is a must-visit resort. It has the Fig Tree Bay Beach, ranked as the third best beach in Europe by TripAdvisor back in 2011. It offers water activities like parasailing, water-skiing, and windsurfing.

Get that tan you’ve always wanted at Konnos Beach. Despite its waveless state, the beach remains to be a picturesque site. Diving sites are popular at the Green Bay, Malama Bay, and the Cyclops Bay—all located within the Protaras area.

There’s another gem that you need to see. Kyrenia is dubbed as the “Jewel of Cyprus” for its historical sites and lifestyle destinations. A lot of restaurants and bars are found along Kyrenia Harbour. Kyrenia Castle offers a different perspective as it houses the Shipwreck Museum, Church of St. George and the Tomb of Sadik Pasha.

JUST BOOK IT

Larnaca Marina is no stranger to hotels such as Princess Beach Hotel, Golden Bay Beach Hotel, and Flamingo Beach Hotel. Cypriot cuisine is best tried at restaurants like Cambanella’s, Vlachos Tavern, To Sieradiko and Art Café 1900.

More prominent landmarks should be on your list. The Church of Saint Lazarus houses the tomb of the late biblical figure. An Armenian Genocide Memorial complex also stands to this day to commemorate the heroes of the tragic event.

JOURNEY TO THE PAST

Kourion is famous for its Greco-Roman theater excavated during the years of 1935 to 1950. Reconstructed and maintained by the Cyprus Department of Antiquities, the theater is open to visitors who want to sit and relish the historical significance of the place.

Tourists can also roam around the House of Eustolios, the Episcopal Precinct, the House of Gladiators, the House of Achilles and the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates. These sites are located next to the theater.

The Paphos Archaeological Park features the Houses of Dionysos, Theseus, Aion and Orpheus. Other must-sees in the area are the Hellenistic Roman Theatre and Roman Villas. All have preserved and well-maintained mosaic floors. One can also stroll along the ruins of Amathus, Cyprus’ oldest and largest kingdom.

Lying between the cities of Protaras and Ayia Napa, Cape Greco is a treat for adventure seekers. Legends believe that the area is the home of the Ayia Napa sea monster. The Natural Park of Cape Greco offers hiking, biking, spelunking, scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing, cliff jumping, bird watching, and picnicking—just some of the activities that might be in your bucket list.

With a look into the history of Cyprus through the country’s spectacular spots, you get to picture a place so full of stories and discoveries. This is the kind of experience you need to share with
a friend.