Cyprus lifestyle

Nicosia has some good shops, the Old quarter of the city being excellent for handmade goods, jewellery, silver, leather and pottery. The pedestrianised area boasts designer shops, pavement cafés and restaurants. Limassol is good for shopping with St. Andrews street offering souvenirs and craft shops. You can pick up some good buys including handmade Lefkara lace, pottery, copper and metalware, gold and silver jewellery, leather goods, Cyprus delight, shoes and spectacles.

Make sure you sample Kelftiko (lamb baked in a clay oven with herbs & spices), Shieftalia (traditionally made sausages with herbs), Koupepia (stuffed vine leaves), Halloumi (mild & salty goats cheese), Feta (cheese), Tahini (ground sesame seed dip), Baklava (sweet pastry with nuts, syrup & honey) and the island's fresh fish. You'll find tavernas are everywhere in Cyprus, serving local specialities and 'meze' (many small dishes). There are many restaurants serving local and international cuisine as well as numerous cafés and bars.

Visit Paphos 'Bar street' which has lively bars offering music, dancing and karaoke. More relaxed bars can be found in the harbour area. Limassol's Old Town provides restaurants and bars for a relaxed evening and its tourist area has a number of livelier bars and a few clubs. Protaras is family-orientated with karaoke, entertainment and quizzes. Ayia Napa is the main spot for night-life catering for all tastes. The centre has many bars and clubs featuring music, DJs and live acts during the summer months.