Of all the exquisite islands in the Mediterranean, Cyprus sometimes gets lost in the shuffle. It all depends on your circle of reference of course. Suffice to say however that as a result of civil strife, the incessant and tiresome tug of war between Greece and Turkey and close proximity to Syria and Lebanon, the shaky sovereign nation suffers from a slight identity crisis and bad international PR.

All of this disappears with the tides however when you visit the island republic. So forget politics. All you need to know is that Cyprus attracts well over two million tourists a year for very good reasons. The former British colony and now member of the Commonwealth is a gem and has it all, from heritage architecture to beach resorts, traditional culture and legendary nightlife.

Ayia Napa

Ayia Napa, like so many destinations throughout Cyprus, is a study in contrasts. On the one hand, the modern resort on the extreme east end of the south coast of Cyprus is a hotbed of club head culture, with Ibiza-like party cred on the island. On the other hand however, the home of the Cypriot-centric Ayia Napa Festival and Thalassa Museum still bears a likeness to the sleepy, traditional coastal village it once was. That is before the windsurfers and Grime and House DJs came to town. Still, even if you come to Ayia Napa just for the pristine Blue Flag beaches, you won’t be sorry.

Kyrenia

A little political backstory on Kyrenia. Though the international community considers the north coast town part of the Republic of Cyprus, Kyrenia has been under Turkish control since the 1974 invasion. This tale of course, is a familiar one throughout the island. Kyrenia is a worthwhile destination regardless, with a history that dates back to the Trojan War. The most notable landmark in the town of close to 30,000 people is a 16th century Venetian castle.

Larnaca

With a population well over 70,000 people, Larnaca is a vital commercial port and holiday destination on the southeast coast of Cyprus. With myriad festivals, superb restaurants and a scenic waterfront, the town is a lively place. Perhaps most remarkable is a set of ancient ruins that date back to the 13th century BC and the scenery and biodiversity of Larnaca Salt Lake.

Limassol

Second in size to the capital city of Nicosia, Limassol is a busy city of over 175,000 people on the south coast of Cyprus. Principal attractions include museums and a wide array of spectacular archaeological sites. Worthwhile points of interest include a medieval castle, Folk Art Museum and Limassol Marina.

Paphos

Perhaps the best compliment one can give the coastal city of Paphos is this: UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indeed, the entire west coast city of over 50,000 people is on the notable international heritage list. With history that dates back to the Neolithic period, the traditional birthplace and home of the cult of Aphrodite is peerless. Visit the Tombs of the Kings above all else.

Paralimni

The southeast Cyprus town of Paralimni is a popular home for people in the employ of the hospitality sector in both Ayia Napa and Protaras. Nonetheless, the town of over 11,000 people has some notable charm. Try to score tickets to watch a Cypriot First Division football match with local favorite Enosis Neon Paralimni FC.

Polis

The small northwest coast town of Polis has a beautiful location on Chrysochous Bay. General recreation and water sports, in addition to the Akamas peninsula and Baths of Aphrodite, provide a plethora of tourist allure.

Protaras

A first-rate tourist resort in Paralimni Municipality that rode the proverbial coattails of Ayia Napa’s tourism success, Protaras has a beautiful beach in Fig Tree Bay and is a short hop from gorgeous Cape Greco. All in all, a decent choice for a tranquil family vacation in Cyprus.

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