cyprus

Famed for its springtime wild flower bloom, the island boasts two mountain ranges (and winter skiing) with a flat plain in between. Cyprus offers natural spaces, bays and inlets around the coast, medieval castles, ancient cities and a bustling night life - there is literally something for everyone in Cyprus.

Since 1964, the north and south parts of the island have operated as two republics with Turkish Cypriots controlling the north and Greek Cypriots in the south. However, recently under UN and European guidance, the two regions are negotiating to re-unite the divided island.

The temperate Cyprus climate is an obvious attraction for those coming from more northern climes. Its location in the eastern Mediterranean is accented by hot, dry summers and cool winters. While you can still enjoy the beach during the winter months, most visitors head to the mountains for some winter skiing during the later part of the season.

Around the island, regional variations in topography and urbanisation make for delightful sightseeing and each area tends to attract different types of visitors. In the region of Paphos, west of the Troódos Mountains, visitors will find a laid-back atmosphere in villages like Latchi and Aghia Marina, while beautiful Coral Bay is a beach-lover's paradise. Limassol, to the south of the island is an often underrated city where night life and beach life flourish. The main tourist region and by far the most active area of Cyprus is the south east coast. The country's international airport is located near Larnaca and the lively resort cities of Protaras, Ayia Napa and Pernera all offer golden sand, turquoise water, abundant nightlife, fine dining and plentiful shops.

As a Mediterranean holiday destination, Cyprus delivers the liveliest atmosphere of the Mediterranean islands. Its unique culture has created an almost constant programme of events. Fiestas, festivals, carnivals, and traditional events cover an almost endless array themes and tastes including religious festivals and holidays, music festivals, flower and agricultural events, national days and anniversaries.

The south east of the island is the most popular resort area, possibly contributing to Ayia Napa's reputation as a party-goer's hotspot. The many nightclubs and varied restaurants do much to add to the fun atmosphere. The area is also home to some of Cyprus' most famous beaches. Nissi Bay is one of the most popular beach resort areas with shallow Mediterranean water and white sandy beaches. Further along the coast is Makronisos Beach, which tends to be more family oriented and often quieter than the other beaches in this area.

If you are after a relaxing holiday in a more secluded and less built up area, look no further than the Paphos region in western Cyprus. Paphos itself is a bit more bustling than the rest of the region, and offers fine dining, cafés, shopping, and city life with a laid-back character. You might stop in the popular resort of Coral Bay to enjoy the two sheltered white sand beaches set between limestone headlands. A bit further afield, the former backpacker's resort of Polis offers a chance to see the quiet charm of 'real' Cypriots going about their daily lives. For some authentic cooking and hospitality, visit Latchi and for a peaceful retreat, stay in the conveniently situated Aghia Marina. For nature lovers, the mountains of Troódos are close by the resort at Argaka.

Though most are attracted by the beaches of Cyprus, there are a lot of things to see and do while you are on the island.

• Visit the archaeological sites that span 10,000 years of human history
• Take in some of the cultural festivals throughout the summer and autumn
• Arrive in spring to see the vivid colours of Cyprus' wild flowers
• Scuba diving - with many wrecks to explore near the coast
• Go hiking in the mountains
• Enjoy the many fiestas and festivals throughout the year