| Cyprus is one of the most popular vacation | | | | Be sure to view some of the beautiful |
| destinations in the Mediterranean Sea, | | | | Byzantine churches of Cyprus. Their colorful |
| attracting nearly two and a half million | | | | paintings and adornments date back thousands |
| tourists a year. Whether tourists are eager | | | | of years. Cyprian museums feature many other |
| to experience the culture of the island or | | | | ancient artifacts from the island nation's |
| just want to relax on a pristine Cyprian | | | | rich history. |
| beach, the island has something for everyone. | | | | |
| | | | Another big reason that Cyprus is such a |
| A former British colony, the Republic of | | | | popular travel destination is its cuisine. |
| Cyprus gained its independence in 1960. Its | | | | Cyprian food is made from some of the |
| nearest neighbors are Turkey, Greece, Israel, | | | | freshest ingredients in the world, based on |
| Lebanon and Syria. It is the crossroads of | | | | culinary traditions almost as ancient as |
| three continents, the Middle East, Africa and | | | | civilization itself. |
| Europe. Historically, many different cultures | | | | |
| have influenced and controlled the island | | | | Imagine fresh Greek herbs and spices |
| nation. | | | | combining with a hint of citrus and a splash |
| | | | of olive oil and throw in some of the flavors |
| The island was the mythical birthplace of the | | | | of Africa and Asia Minor. Sun ripened fresh |
| goddess Aphrodite, which helps to explain the | | | | vegetables will delight the palate of every |
| sheer beauty of the island. Rocky coves, | | | | person that visits Cyprian shores. |
| sandy beaches and some of the best resorts in | | | | |
| the world decorate the Cyprian shores. | | | | Start your dining adventure by ordering a |
| | | | "mezedes" at a Cyprian restaurant. But be |
| There are also championship golf courses and | | | | sure to come hungry, for 20 or more dishes |
| beautiful hiking trails across Cyprus. | | | | will soon be taking you on a culinary trip |
| Snorkeling, windsurfing, scuba diving, | | | | through the flavors of the island. |
| sailing and deep sea fishing are all popular | | | | |
| pastimes. The crystal clear water and | | | | The island is also credited with creating |
| gorgeous weather in Cyprus make it the | | | | halloumi cheese, made with both sheep and |
| perfect destination for a beach holiday. | | | | goat milk. It's unique flavor is delicious |
| | | | with watermelon in the summer. It is also |
| The island nation is as rich with culture as | | | | served battered and fried, as well as |
| it is with natural beauty. A trip to Cyprus | | | | grilled. Enjoy it with some artisan bread and |
| must include a visit to Choirokoitia. It is | | | | cracked green olives. |
| one of the best preserved examples in the | | | | |
| Mediterranean of a settlement from the dawn | | | | Cyprian wine is some of the finest in the |
| of civilization. | | | | world. Ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians |
| | | | coveted wine from Cyprus for its delicious |
| Also, be sure to enjoy the beautiful floors | | | | flavor. Thanks to the sunny weather and |
| of the Roman villas with their mosaic tiles | | | | mountainous landscape, Cyprian grapes make |
| that depict the ancient gods and goddesses. | | | | outstanding and distinctive wine. Be sure to |
| The Tombs of the Kings, carved out of rock | | | | sample some of the local varieties. |
| and Roman amphitheaters that still feature | | | | |
| ancient Greek plays are also popular tourist | | | | For summer 2008 holiday information about |
| destinations. | | | | Cyprus visit yourcyprus. |
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