The Mediterranean island of Cyprus is only a short flight away from the Arab world but while you will find much here that is familiar, the country is also refreshingly different in so many ways.According to an ancient Greek legend, Cyprus is the island of Aprodite, the island of Aprodite, the goddess of love and beauty. Today, visitors from all over the world come to taste the romance of modern-day Cyprus, a place which combines a rich and varied natural landscape with busy, modern towns.

Larnaca is the first town that most visitors to Cyprus see since the bigger of the island's two international airports is located there. The modern town lies on the ruins of Kition which was the birthplace of famous philosopher Zeno, founder of the Stotic school. It is also the location of one of Islam's holiest shrines, the Tekke of Hala Sultan, built in memory of Umm Haram, allegedly a relative of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). Standing in lush greenery beside the salt lake, it is the most famous of the island's mosques and regular services are held there for the Muslim community of Cyprus. Larnaka is also famed for its attractive palm tree-lined promenade.

Lefkosia, the capital of Cyprus, is a fascinating blend of old and new, ancient and modern. You can shop for anything you wish in the most fashionable boutiques and well-stocked department stores on one of Lafkosia's commercial streets and then take a step a step back in time as you wander around the picturesque pedestrians-only traditional neighborhood which stands within the impressive Venetian walls. The acclaimed and highly popular Cyprus Museum is located in the capital and you should not miss an opportunity to see its treasures. If visiting Cyprus on business, you may attend the International Conference Centre, one of the island's top conference venues.

Lemesos is a popular seaside town with a long and fscinating history. On either side lie the ruins of ancient kingdoms, while in the town itself stands the medieval castle where King Richard The Lionheart of England is said to have married Berengaria of Navarre. Another castle, close to village of Kolossi, is where the crusading Knights had their headquarters. Not far from here is the Akrotiri Salt Lake which is visited by millions of migratory birds every year. Lemesos itself is a bustling, cosmopolitan town which welcomes thousands of tourists from all over the world.

Pafos is the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite and visitors may stop beside the large rock- Aphrodite's Rock - that marks the spot and admire the panoramic view across the blue Mediterranean. A little further along the coast are the remains of the Goddess' earliest sanctuary, and not far away the Baths of Aphodite. Pafos is steeped in history and no visit to Cyprus is complete without a visit to its famous ancient mosaics or the mysterious Tombs of the Kings. Though the smallest of the island's tourist-oriented towns, it is also the location of Cyprus' second International Airport.

Golden sandy beaches gently embrace the eastern corner of the island. The popular holiday resorts of Agia Napa, Paralimini and Protaras have been called a veritable paradise for anyone who loves the sea. The charming scenery includes the tiny fishing harbour of Agia Napa, a marine museum, colourful shops and some impressive windmills. Take your pick from one of the many traditional tavernans dotted around the area that specialize in fresh fish caught by colourful fishing vessels.

The mountain villages of Cyprus are like another world, and yet they are so close to the seaside resorts that you can travel from one to the other in a matter of minutes. The pine -wooded hillsides have a charm of their own, not to mention the attractive scenery and especially in summer, a welcome cool & relaxing atmosphere. Walk in the forests and you might even catch a glimpse among the pines, of the indigenous moufflon, the inspiration for Cyprus Airways' insignia. See the quaint, tiny villages and taste the special crop or fruit for which each is rightly famous. Should you visit in winter months, the snow covered Troodos Mountains are at their most beautiful and provide a special treat for ski enthusiasts.

Cyprus is a unique destination - familiar enough to ensure that you will feel at home and at the same time different enough for you to feel that you've traveled to a completely new world. Give it a try !