LARNACA and NICOSIA, Cyprus: Cyprus is one of the few countries that you can actually experience in a very short amount of time. I've traveled extensively throughout the Greek-side of the island, so that's where we'll explore. Rent a car in Larnaca, where you probably landed if you flew. There are some very inexpensive, albeit rather unofficial, car rental agencies where you'll be able to get a vehicle for as little as 20 or 30 Euros a day. It might not be the latest model BMW, but it'll surely do. Make sure you're comfortable driving on the left side of the road, this used to be the U.K. after all. Oh, and be sure to pick up an English map. Minutes 0-45 While in Larnaca, ask someone which way the beach is. Spend a few minutes taking in the beautiful clear blue water, take a dip, have a Keo (Cyprus' domestic beer) and order some Halloumi (Cyprus' famous squeaky fried cheese). Enjoy it, but don't dilly-dally, there is lots to do. Make your way to the center of Larnaca, find a place called Art Cafe 1900. It's a classy cafe near the beach with a huge selection of beer and great food. The address is 6 Stasinou Street, Larnaca. Minutes 45-108 Once you get on your way, drive west to Kourion. This will be the longest drive of the trip, but it will be mostly along the coast, so enjoy the view. From just about anywhere along the road, you can enjoy a clear view of the Mediterranean. Rumor has it that on the clearest of days, you can see Syria from the eastern coast of the island. After arriving at Kourion, park the car and get ready to be amazed. Kourion is probably one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Cyprus. Settled originally by the Mycenaens, the site reached in current state of grandeur during the Roman period. Walk around the site, visit the ancient houses, and save a few minutes to take in the Roman theater. The theater, which has recently undergone some restoration work, originally sat 2,000 spectators and was the site of numerous gladiatorial battles. The view of the Mediterranean in front of the theater is unparalleled. Sadly, you probably don't have time for much else, but if you're feeling adventurous there's a little village called Athienou right in between Larnaca and Nicosia. You can enjoy some delicious Cypriot coffee in one of its many cafes, gorge on the most delicious pastries on the island, and get a sense of what village-life is like. Also, you may have noticed that I have neglected to mention Nicosia. If you want to visit the capital, you may want to make it a part of your 108 minutes in Turkish Cyprus. There is a lot to do on both the Greek and Turkish sides of Nicosia, but 108 minutes in Greek Cyprus simply isn't enough time to enjoy the city to its fullest. Enjoy your trip! BM
