Ayia Napa and More

A holiday to Cyprus; this phrase comes with mixed views in recent years. Most people see it as a 'party island' now with the focus being on the town Ayia Napa which now rivals that of Ibiza or Malaga. People may think turning a once rather religious town - with a monastery and church nearby - into a party central destination is wrong but with the 21st century comes some changes Cyprus has had to make to keep tourism alive on the Island.

From personal experience Ayia Napa is the best destination for letting your hair down and having some fun. There is something for everyone. There are water sports, bars that sit on Nissi beach that provide a mixture of music, foam parties and English DJs. Then on the other hand there are churches and museums to visit. There are traditional Greek taverna’s for food and bars open just as late as the pay for entry clubs so everyone can have a good time. The bars also offer one free drink per person with entry so you don't have to tighten your purse strings in Cyprus.

The hospitality in Cyprus is renowned and never allows for an empty glass, as most offer a complimentary coffee or Zivania at the end of the meal. If you are looking for sun, sea, sand and fun, Ayia Napa has to be your destination. Whether you are going with family or friends you will find something to suit you. If you are travelling with children there is one of the best ‘Luna Parks’ – or fun fairs – on the island as well as the brilliant WaterWorld which never fails to keep children interested for an entire day.

There are a mix of people, young and old, tourists and locals in Ayia Napa. It is close to other nightlife hotspots such as Protaras and Larnaca which both have excellent open bars, taverna’s and ice cream parlours. The most famous being Haagen dazs in Larnaca which has excellent deserts. They in turn also have great beaches and in Larnaca there is also a shisha bar that has become very popular in recent years. With a little bit more of a drive you can reach Limassol and Paphos. Paphos has a good nightlife and the hotspot has to be ‘Bubbles’ which is a bar run by a London born Cypriot who co-owns one of the best Greek Taverna’s in Gants Hill – ‘Apollonia’. Limassol has a slightly higher class feel to it in the clubs but ‘Rumours’ is recommended highly as it has some excellent British DJs as well as themed nights.

Cyprus is now becoming one of the best family destinations as it has so much to offer, don’t let the party atmosphere worry you – JOIN IN. There is so much more than partying, eating, tanning and having fun but who would want anything else? Take a note out of the local’s book, sit back, relax with a Greek coffee and enjoy the surroundings. You’ll be happier for it.

Here are some of my photos from Napa 2011:

Sunbathing on Nissi

On the beach with my cousin, Nissi Beach

At a bar in Napa town centre

Having fun in the clubs

In Club Sin - amazing music!