Pictured left to right outside the new store are: Paul Hardwick, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents Director of Retail; Emma Bailey, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents; Tutti Taylor, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents; Councillor Candy Vaughan, Mayor of Eastbourne; Trevor Ridler, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents Business Development Manager; and Shirley Waters, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents..
Although I have visited Cyprus before it never fails to surprise me as an island full of ancient wonder and warmer climes, my recent trip to Paphos proved it to be an unforgettable destination. From the seamless flight with EasyJet Holidays from Luton, to the luxurious stay at the Anemi Suites, every moment of my trip was filled with adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
Nestled in the heart of Paphos, the Anemi Suites offered a boutique apartment experience that exceeded my expectations. The hotel’s ambience was chic and comfortable, with spacious suites that provided a perfect retreat after a day of exploration. One of the highlights was the rooftop bar – sipping an espresso martini while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean was an experience I’ll never forget. The hotel’s spa was another haven of relaxation, offering a range of treatments that left me feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
Breakfast at Anemi Suites was a feast for the senses, with a wide variety of delicious options to start the day right, including fresh eggs, fruit and tasty juices. The friendly staff added a personal touch to my stay, always ready with a smile and helpful tips for exploring the area. The hotel’s location was perfect, just a short walk from the bustling Harbour and iconic Paphos castle, where traditional Greek restaurants and seafood eateries line the waterfront.
My adventures took me to some of Cyprus’s most iconic historical and natural sites. The archaeological site of Kourion was a journey back in time, with its impressive Greco-Roman ruins and stunning views of the coastline. The nearby Kolossi Castle offered a glimpse into the island’s medieval past, standing tall as a testament to Cyprus’ rich history.
Limassol, with its vibrant city life and beautiful seafront, was a delightful mix of the old and new. The Rock of Aphrodite, a place steeped in mythology, was a mesmerizing sight – legend has it that the goddess of love and beauty herself emerged from the sea at this very spot.
One of the highlights of my trip was the boat tour to the Blue Lagoon from Latchi. The crystal-clear waters and serene environment made it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling. The beauty of the Blue Lagoon is truly unparalleled, and it was my favourite tour by far.
To explore the coast, I hired an e-bike for around 30 euros per day and cycled from Paphos to Coral Bay. The route was super safe along the coastal boardwalk and offered breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Cycling along the coast was not only fun but also an excellent way to soak in the natural beauty of Cyprus – there were plenty of pit stops for water and ice creams too.
Another unforgettable experience was the sunset cruise onboard Wave Dancer 1. Watching the sun dip below the horizon while at sea was magical. The BBQ dinner was delicious and the entertainment, featuring talented singers and performers, kept everyone entertained throughout our evening on the water.
For evening dining near the hotel, The Lodge was incredible, serving South African-inspired surf and turf - their steak was the tastiest I’ve ever had. For more traditional Greek cuisine and seafood, the restaurants by the Harbour were wonderful, offering authentic dishes with a view of the sea. You truly are spoilt for choice in Cyprus with some tavernas serving a tasty three course meal for around 12.50 euros!
I also had the opportunity to tour two of the island’s most exclusive five-star hotels courtesy of Thanos Hotels and Resorts. First up the Annabelle, a firm favourite with many of my customers – this hotel offers timeless elegance and luxurious comfort, perfect for those seeking a serene beachfront getaway. Next door the sister property, Almyra, boasts chic contemporary design catering to both families and couples alike looking for a stylish retreat – it is clear to see why guests return year on year. Both hotels radiated luxury and comfort, and I can’t recommend them highly enough for those seeking a stay in Cyprus. I was also treated to lunch at the Annabelle and enjoyed a wonderful Mediterranean meal at the seafront restaurant – the carbonara was out of this world!
A handy travel tip I can offer is that there is no need to pack travel adaptors! The hotels in Cyprus have UK plug sockets, which means more space in your luggage for souvenirs!
My time in Paphos was a perfect blend of historical exploration, relaxation, and thrilling adventures. Whether it’s the ancient ruins, the pristine beaches, or the exceptional hospitality, Cyprus offers something for every traveller. I can’t wait to return to this Mediterranean paradise and create even more memories in the future.
You can find Tracey at our Thorpe branch.
