Cyprus Part 1

My recent trip to Cyprus was fascinating in many ways. I have been to the island twice before but never taken in any of its history which I did this time, however the main purpose of my visit was to view a selection of its hotels. I have not gone into great detail here but if you need further information on any of the properties just let me know and I can elaborate, but please look at the pictures that accompany this journal – as the old saying goes - a picture paints a thousand words…..

My first stop was a huge 568 acre complex called Aphrodite Hills Spa & Golf resort which is a hotel surrounded by a small town full of restaurants and private villas. It also boasts an 18 hole championship golf course as well as a top class spa and fitness centre, and fabulous tennis courts with tuition available. You would need a car though if you were staying on the outskirts of the complex. All of the accommodations I viewed were of very high quality.

I was lucky enough to be treated to a Thermae spa experience there. This is a Greco-Roman way of cleansing and relaxing the body, you go through a sequence of heat rooms which progressively increase in temperature and are moderated by intermittent showers, I must admit I was feeling very good after the 70 minute treatment!

My next stopover was Paphos where I got to see the archaeological park – our guide was very knowledgeable about all matters relating to the site. It was quite mind-blowing to stand over the mosaic floors that had been laid over 6000 years ago and painstakingly restored in their original position.

On to Paphos harbour where I could have chosen from about 20 different restaurants to have lunch but settled for an ice cream as we were due to have lunch at the Elysium Hotel, where the food was exquisite. After lunch we visited another historical site -The Tombs of the Kings - a burial place (although not just for royalty). Again our guide gave a full and interesting brief of what happened all those years ago.

One of the Leading Hotels of the World – The Amathus Beach invited us round to view the hotel and check out some of the rooms available. It certainly did not disappoint, set amidst lush gardens but yet on the beach it offers luxury but with quite a contemporary style.

Later that day we visited the Constantinou Bros Hotels: The Athena Beach hotel: The Athena Royal Beach Hotel (adult only): The Pioneer Beach Hotel and the soon to be available Paphian Bay, which when finished will consist only of deluxe suites. I stayed at the Athena Beach and was very impressed with everything about the place. It is a very popular hotel for people who play bowls and of course I had to have a go. The buffet restaurant catered to every taste and the beef consommé was delicious, so as to sample all the available culinary delights our main course was served in the A La Carte restaurant – I chose a steak flambé which was cooked to perfection. What particularly impressed me about this group of hotels was the staff, always smiling, pleasant, genuine and eager to please.

For more information on this trip check out my next journal - Cyprus Part 2