Cyprus

Cyprus, the “birthplace of Aphrodite,” is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, covering an area of 3,572 square miles. While the country’s culture has strong Greek and Western European ties — in the resort towns of Paphos, Ayia Napa and Limassol in particular, you’ll feel the British influence — Cyprus is geographically much closer to Turkey and Syria, giving it just a touch of the Middle East. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, Cyprus is a great option, with its pristine beaches, varied nightlife and beautiful weather. But there’s more to Cyprus than its beaches and world-class resorts — the island also has numerous historical sites, beautiful mountain scenery and authentic Cypriot cuisine that you can sample at a local taverna.