Cyprus

Typically Mediterranean in climate, but with a unique history as a crossroads between Europe and the Middle East, Cyprus today is a country divided along religious and national lines, but a great value holiday destination non-the-less.

Lefkosia is split in two by the the Green Line, with the Turkish sector to the north. The old town, inside the 16th-century Venetian walls, is the most interesting part. The Leventis Municipal museum is fascinating, the Dragoman Hadzigeorgakis is in a gorgeous 15th century mansion, the Byzantine museum is loaded, and the Famagusta Gate is beautifully preserved.

The centre of North Nicosia is Atatürk Square, and the well-preserved Kyrenia Gate is a stone’s throw away. The Turkish museum is inside a 17th-century monastery, the Selimiye mosque dates from the 13th century. The Büyük Hammam is the city's largest Turkish baths.

Larnaca (south) is a relaxed resort with its wide seafront promenade of palm trees and excellent tourist infra-structure. The town’s 17th century fort houses the Larnaca Medieval museum, nearby are the Pierides Foundation and Archaeological museums. Angeloktisti Church in Kiti has rare 6th century Byzantine mosaics.

Limassol is a major port, an important tourist resort and wine industry centre. Apart from extensive hotels, horde of nightspots, taverns and restaurants, it boasts Curium, one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Cyprus.