Sometimes it is the trip you plan the least ends up being a true joy.  I originally did not have any intention of visiting Cyprus, but due to a flight connection, I found myself stopping here and figured I’d check out this island that I knew so little about.  Of course being the procrastinator that I am, I did not do as much (read barely any) research on the country as I should have. I booked a hotel for one night in my first destination, Larnaca, just a few days before I arrived plus I contacted the Mestre with local capoeira group based in Nicosia to confirm their class times.  Other than that, I was flying blind. No guide book, no maps in hand, just me and my oversized suitcase invading the island.

Based on some preconceived ideas, I suspected that when visiting Cyprus, I would find an island full of tacky souvenir shops, bright red Brits and beaches overrun with hotels.  Well, even though all of these things were kind of true, I found that I really enjoyed my few days here.  As much as I love the hell out of Beirut, it was nice to have well maintained taxis that did not chase you down in the streets, constant sea breezes to fight off the heat and free internet access nearly everywhere I went. And did I mention 24 hour electricity? But the one thing really stood out for me was the pace of Island Time. Its been quite a while since I chilled out on an island and I have to say it was a nice change of pace.

While here, I got to visit Larnaca, Nicosia (both the Greek and Turkish sides) and Limassol.  I definitely have to plan a second trip to see and do more in those cities and explore Aya Napa, Pafos and more of Northern Cyprus.  Not surprisingly, there’s so much to see!

The beaches of Larnaca were packed on a Tuesday afternoon

Hands down, Cyprus has the best salad selection in all of their restaurants. Its easy to eat healthy here.

**I would like to “thank” Frankfurt International Airport for the delay in this post…a ridiculously inefficient connection process + lack of free or paid WiFi = late post.**