Okay, so we all have wishes and hopes and dreams, right? Well here are some of mine. "3 Random Reasons Why I REALLY Want To Go To..." is a new segment on The Drifter Journals wherein I share with you one of the many places I have always wanted to explore and 3 reasons why I feel a trip there is warranted. First up: The Republic of Cyprus During a trip through the Mediterranean, there were many things that stood out in my mind, bustling fishing ports and seaside villas. But of everything I saw, it was the islands of the Mediterranean Coast that really captured my heart. Being an islander, there was something very familiar with the blazing sun, rolling surf and vibrant beach culture. At the same time, however, there was also a very distinctive edge to the islands of the Mediterranean that differed greatly from the Pacific island vibe. These were islands steeped in centuries of history, and yet they were modern, classy, hip and stylish. One of the islands that always stood out to me, but that I didn't get a chance to visit at that time, was the island of Cyprus, officially known as The Republic of Cyprus. Here are just three random reason why this is a place I've always wanted to visit: A Blend of Satisfying and Traditional Dishes Food is such an integral part of my travels, and from what I've heard, Cyprus does not disappoint in this department! Apparently due to its location as a crossroads of cultures, the local cuisine of Cyprus incorporates ingredients from all around the Eastern Mediterranean. Many dishes are cooked with a fine blend of ingredients such as tomatoes, olive oil, local herbs and spices. Each dish is said to have its own unique and distinct flavor. One very satisfying and yet traditional Cypriot presentation is something called a Meze. This is a feast that combines up to 30 small dishes of everything. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Paphos Although the modern day city of Paphos has about 33,000 residents and is growing rapidly into a developed tourist area, it's the deep history of the city that makes this place a drawcard for me. Going back into several thousands of years here unravels layers and layers of history with temples, villas, palaces, theaters, fortresses and tombs all pieced together like a beautiful mosaic. It's no wonder then that Paphos has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dive Spots With Crystal Blue Water The crystal blue waters surrounding the island of Cyprus make this place seem like a diver's paradise, and apparently that is one of the most popular activities to do there. Although the waters off the coast of Akamas National Park are known to be home to some of the most exciting diving spots in the area, there are other sites, such as The Blue Lagoon and The Garden of Eden, that are supposedly worth exploring as well. The waters around Cyprus are extremely safe to dive in, since the tides and currents there are almost nonexistent. Even the temperature of the sea is warm and pleasant all year round. For all intents and purposes, Cyprus sounds like the perfect place to soak up the underwater sites. And there it is, just 3 random reasons why I REALLY want to go to Cyprus! Of course, this is just one of the many places that are on my hot list of places I've got to see at least once, so please keep following along to see where else on my travel map has been pinned for future drifter exploration!
3 Comments
Kerry Berger
3/9/2014 02:05:15 pm
You should definitely go to Cyprus. It is fantastic. I spent time on both the Greek side of Cyprus and I crossed over into the Turkish northern part of the country. Two cultures divided by a "Green Line" with UN Troops. Fantastic cuisine on both sides. If I had the financial resources, I'd retire in Cyprus.
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SUBSCRIBEABOUT MEI'm JR. I come from a long line of adventurers, some were nomadic explorers of the sea and others wandering cultivators of the earth. Ultimately, this legacy of drifters has deeply affected my view of travel. Read more...
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