Cyprus

Cyprus is this weird mix of Greek and Turkish culture sitting in the Mediterranean. It’s divided into two sides with a UN buffer zone down the middle. The south is the Greek side and where most tourists go. The north is Turkish and less developed. Both are worth seeing.

The south has better beaches and infrastructure. Paphos on the west coast has ancient ruins and mosaics everywhere. The Tombs of the Kings are impressive. Beaches are rocky but clean. Limassol is the party city with clubs and a nice waterfront. Ayia Napa used to be all British party kids but it’s calmed down a bit. Nissi Beach is beautiful but packed.

Larnaca is more chill and has the best budget flights in. The salt lake with flamingos in winter is cool. Troodos Mountains in the middle are great for hiking and mountain villages. Way cooler up there in summer. You can ski in winter which feels weird on a Mediterranean island.

The north is different. Nicosia is the divided capital and you can walk between sides. The old town on the Turkish side is more authentic and cheaper. Kyrenia has a beautiful harbor and crusader castle. Beaches up north are emptier. It’s worth crossing over for a few days.

Getting around needs a car. Buses exist but they’re limited. Roads are good and driving is easy. British style so left side of the road. Rent a car in the south and you can drive north no problem now.

Money is simple in the south. It’s euros and cards work everywhere. North uses Turkish lira and is way cheaper. Bring cash for the north. Food is great everywhere. Meze meals, halloumi, souvlaki.

Best time is April to June or September to October. Summer is too hot and crowded.