Michael On The Move: Exploring Cyprus

For the first edition of Michael On The Move, I have chosen a country close to my heart (many of my early summer holidays were spent here). This country is located in the Mediterranean, it’s the third largest island in the sea, and saw its highest temperature on record in 2020 at 46.2℃. With a population of under a million and over four million tourists visiting the island in 2024, this country is certainly not off the beaten path. In fact, I’d guess many of you have been or if not, at least heard of it. Of course, I am talking about Cyprus!

This former British Colony is full of history which is one of the many reasons I used to love travelling here. From UNESCO world heritage sites like Nea Paphos Archaeological Park (ruins of a Hellenistic and Roman city), to remnants of a more modern, bloody past, like monuments in tribute to the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, the country certainly has a lot to give for history buffs like me. This is an unsurprising fact given that the country has been conquered by many different empires, ranging from the Brits to the Romans to the Venetians before finally gaining independence in 1960. There are still signs of the conquest today with Britian still holding two military bases on the island. And I have heard  that in one of these bases, there is a lovely carvery restaurant, so even when being 2,000km from home, we can still enjoy home comforts.

With over 100 animals in the park including 60 camels, some of my fondest memories as a child were built here

One of the highlights of my trips to Cyprus is a visit to The Camel Park. Located just 15 minutes or so from Larnaca Airport, this place was a staple of my childhood. With over 100 animals in the park including 60 camels, some of my fondest memories as a child were built here. I vividly remember riding the camels around the park as well as feeding them snacks. This place is truly a must-visit if you are flying into Larnaca. And it is not just me who thinks this! Many famous people have come to the park including Peter Andre (there is a funny video of him online climbing through the windows of a toilet at the park to save his son who locked himself in). I think the park is honestly a fantastic experience and perfect if you have younger siblings or if you are going with a group of friends, just don’t go during a hot day as there is no shade whatsoever and you will burn to death!

In Cyprus, you are never far from the sea and with temperatures averaging between 30 and 34℃ in the summer, it is always the perfect time for the beach

Obviously, the best thing about being on an island is being surrounded by the sea. This is a stark contrast from where we are in Coventry, being practically in the centre of the country. In Cyprus, you are never far from the sea and with temperatures averaging between 30 and 34℃ in the summer, it is always the perfect time for the beach. If it is your first time in Cyprus, I’d recommend a trip to the Blue Lagoon. Best accessible by boat from the Latchi harbour, this lagoon is renowned for its warm crystalline waters with clear views of the seabed and the marine life in the waters. Some tours even offer food, drink and even a water slide! It’s a great way to spend your day and explore some of the clearest waters on the island.

For the best prices and the least touristy dishes, it is best to head into a local village rather than stay in one of the more touristy cities

If you are a big foodie, then Cyprus is also the place for you. Tantalise your tastebuds with a Meze. This is a selection of Cypriot cuisines including souvlaki (pieces of chicken or pork cooked on a bbq grill), lamb chops, a variety of salads and cheese and so much more. When booking a Meze, be sure to shop around as prices and the amount and type of dishes served vary depending on the restaurant. For the best prices and the least touristy dishes, it is best to head into a local village rather than stay in one of the more touristy cities. Here, you can still experience some Cypriot classics that are well known to us back home as well as a few dishes like liver and snails which you may not get in a touristy restaurant.

So, whether you are a history buff or like a fun day out or even just want to try local food, Cyprus can fulfil your desires. Going there so many times during my childhood has certainly made me fond of the place and I feel as though it became my second home. I love going back time after time to visit my favourite restaurants, chill at the beach all day and go out at night. Cyprus truly has everything you need for a good Mediterranean holiday. I hope you will visit this island and see why I believe it is such a great holiday destination.