Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Cyprus / Limassol
 |  | Travel Reviews : Limassol |
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| | | | Wishing away winter
When you ask about winter destinations people often suggest Cyprus for its year-round sunshine and beautiful beaches.
Sitting on the balcony of my lovely room at the five-star Hawaii Grand in Cyprus, sipping a coffee in the warm sun with the Mediterranean twinkling away in front of me I couldn't help feeling rather smug.
I might have spared a thought or two for those still in London - after a few text messages telling me how cold and wet it was there - but I soon slipped back into smugness.
And staying at the rather gorgeous Hawaii Grand merely added to my no-doubts irritating sense of wellbeing. The five-star hotel aims to please - and manager Demetris Tsangaras has passed his enthusiasm and professionalism onto his multi-cultural members of staff.
Every staff member I ran across went out of their way to ensure my stay was fantastic - little touches like a welcoming hot towel, a fruit basket, roses, complimentary bottle of Cypriot red and a fresh carnation on your freshly-made bed every day make all the difference in the world.
The buffet breakfasts were a lovely start to the day and as the hotel shop over the way sold English newspapers I had time to catch up on lots of day-old tabloid tales.
During the day I spent most of my time lolling on a comfortable sun-lounger in the shade of palm trees looking out over the gently rippling sea. There was so much I could be doing at the hotel - I could have lessons in water-skiing, jet-skiing, windsurfing or diving (and probably much more) but somehow I never seemed to get off the sun-lounger. It was just what I needed - a truly relaxing time with absolutely no need to do anything other than daydream, snooze, eat and read.
As I slipped towards total relaxation I met up with the manager for a drink and was very glad I did. He told me that the hotel was planning to introduce 16 new treatment rooms and 10 suites with Jacuzzis - for the many people who longed to escape the stresses of modern living.
To celebrate this I enjoyed a superb treatment, a Sanshui Aroma Spa aimed at pleasing all five senses, at the hotel's soon-to-be expanded Wellness Centre. It included a consultation to decide on which essential oils to use, a bamboo detox peeling massage, a shower treatment and another Vitarome body massage to restore the body's harmony.
Along with the soothing music, dim lights and lovely-smelling oils, the masseuse made sure it was a comforting environment.
In fact it was so comforting and relaxing I was virtually comatose at the end. I just had the energy to dress and then make it back to my room before falling into a deep sleep.
And so my days passed - but even a sluggard like me felt I had to make some effort to see a bit more of Cyprus so on midday Saturday I caught bus 30 from just out side the hotel to make the trek into Limassol - on the search for Cypriot food and a bit of culture.
The 40-minute bus ride emphasised just how entrenched British tourists and institutions are here - the route was lined with English and Irish-style pubs and restaurants. And if that wasn't enough, there are all kinds of chain restaurants like Pizza Express to choose from too.
I got off near to the Old Town, surely my best bet for finding Cypriot food and culture.
Once you're off the main drag you definitely find the culture with an ancient mosque, the Lemesos Castle and Cyprus Mediaeval Museum, oodles of little alleyways and bustling markets.
Standing on the castle's ramparts, I could imagine how the various defenders must have felt as they saw the enemies' sails approaching. It brought the island's vivid and often bloody history to life, as did the many weapons and suites of armour housed in the museum.
Away from the castle there is a lot of touristy tat on sale, but there are also gorgeous shops selling lace goods, silver and lots of local handicrafts.
There are some lovely restaurants around the castle - offering some traditional Cypriot (meze and fish) food.
However I made the mistake of wandering off through the streets - mesmerised by the amounts of tat on sale - and drawn in by the sheer kitschness of some of the goods, When I realised how hungry I was, I looked around and couldn't see anything but British-style pub grub and fast food. Luckily I spotted an entrance to a lovely little courtyard restaurant - with trees, a goldfish aquarium and an aviary of singing birds.
Sadly the closest thing I could find to typical Cypriot food was a grilled halloumi roll.
Laden with my purchases I made my way back to the Hawaii Grand on the slow-moving and extremely popular bus.
Just time for a stroll along the beach and out onto the pier to watch the sunset and then off to another glorious (and in typical Grand Hawaii tradition) Japanese teppanyaki-style dinner served outside.
So yes, Cyprus is an ideal destination to get away from the looming grey and rainy days and get some winter sun. Especially in a lovely, luxurious resort like the Hawaii Grand.
And nothing makes you enjoy the sunshine, sea and spa break more than knowing that everyone else is stressing out in a cold and rainy UK.
- Sky Holidays offers seven nights B&B accommodation at the five-star Hawaii Grand Hotel & Resort from £379pp. The prices are based on two sharing a standard room and includes return flights with Helios Airways and return taxi transfers. To book contact Sky Holidays on 0871 226 8704 or visit skyhols.com.
- For the Hawaii Grand Hotel & Resort visit hawaiigrand.com or call
00 357 2 5 634333.
Travel guide: Limassol
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| | Destination Guide : Limassol |
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| | | Idyllic location |  | Why go on holiday to Limassol?
Limassol (renamed Lemesos) is Cyprus's second-largest city and the country's most popular tourist destination. Sandwiched between the mountains and the sparkling Mediterranean, it's not difficult to see why.
How much does it cost?
A seven-night half board package in a good hotel costs around £600 (high season). Self-catering packages are available from £380 per week. Direct flights from the UK cost from £150. All prices may vary subject to availability.
When should I go?
July and August are peak season, but Limassol enjoys pleasant weather from May until October. The loveliest weather is in April to May and September to October when temperatures average 70-80F (22-30C).
In June, July and August it can reach more than 90F (35C) while in December and January temperatures drop to 50F (10C). The annual Carnival is held in February when masked revellers invade the streets with music, parades and dancing.
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| | | Step back into the past |  | What should I do when I'm there?
Most tourists head for the main attraction - the well-restored castle where Richard the Lionheart got married in 1191. Within the castle you'll find the Medieval Museum which is worth a visit.
A short distance from Limassol lies the Kourion archaeological site. The outstanding attraction is an ancient Greco-Roman theatre where you can take in a play or concert. Nearby is the medieval fortress of Kolossi Castle.
Where can I chill out?
It's worth making time for the newly-restored hammam. Around £6 will buy you a steam and sauna or a massage. All sessions are mixed, male and female. While you're in the old town visit the artisans' shops, mosque and Medieval Museum.
What should I see outside the town?
A trip into the Troodos mountains is ideal if you want to experience secluded monasteries, pine forests and small winemaking villages. A great place to walk in the summer. In the winter, this area is a popular skiing venue.
Kykkos Monastery is open to visitors and has a museum containing a number of priceless icons. The winegrowing area of Omodos is interesting while the Socrates Traditional House is a popular spot - a 500-year-old house with a huge cellar and distillery.
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| | | Warm welcome for families | | Where's good for nightlife?
Limassol boasts some lovely restaurants with very reasonable prices. Phylacton Arcade is a nice spot to sit and have a drink, but if you want to party till dawn and beyond, head 60km up the coast to Ayia Napa, the clubbers' paradise.
What's the food like?
The island's mixed cultural heritage is highlighted by Cypriot cuisine. Dishes show the strong Middle Eastern influences of Turkey as well as elements from more traditional Greek cooking.
Try a meat or fish meze, a feast made up of about 20 different appetiser-sized dishes, or halloumi, the local cheese that is typically served grilled. Cypriot wine is excellent and Turkish coffee extremely strong.
What should I buy?
Shopaholics will find plenty to occupy them in the brace of new stores in modern Limassol. Bottles of ouzo, the local spirit, and regional wines make welcome gifts.
Most villages specialise in some type of craft, whether it be pottery, silverware, basket-weaving or the famous lace from Lefkara. These products can also be found at the Handicraft Centre in Lefkosia.
What is there for children to do?
Children are well catered-for in most resort hotels, with children's pools, games rooms and watersports programmes. Family is important to Cypriots and children are welcome in cafes and restaurants at all hours.
Tourist office
Cyprus Tourist Office, 17 Hanover Street, London, W1S 1YP. Tel. 020 7569 8800.
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| | Fact File : Limassol |
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| | | Limassol | | Did you know?
Richard the Lionheart got married here in 1191.
Language
Greek. Turkish is spoken in North Cyprus. English is widely spoken.
Visas
No visas required for stays of up to three months.
Getting there
Scheduled and charter flights are available direct from London and regional UK airports. Fly to Larnaca and Paphos airports. There are regular boats from Greece, Israel and Turkey.
Flying time from London
Between four hours 30 minutes and five hours.
Getting around
The best way to travel around is by hiring a car or motorbike. It's fairly cheap and easy, with driving on the left and many roadsigns in English. Buses are efficient but the best way to explore locally is to rent a bike.
Currency
Cypriot Pound in the Republic.
Costs
As a rough guide, litre of petrol 45p; moderate restaurant meal £8; bottle of beer 80p; 24-exposure camera film £2.50; four-mile taxi ride about £2.50.
Weather
Cyprus is the sunniest island in the Mediterranean, with an average of 300 days of sunshine each year. April-May and September-October are the most pleasant months to visit, dry with temperatures between 22-30C (70-85F). Summer temperatures can be well above 35C (90F), and it can drop to around 10C (50F) during December and January.
Time difference
Two hours ahead of GMT
International dialling code from the UK
00 357
Voltage
240V, 50Hz AC. Plugs are square three-pin, the same as in the UK.
Opening hours
This laid-back town has relaxed opening hours. Most shops open from 8am-7:30pm, taking a long lunch from 1-4pm and closing at 2pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Religion is important to Cypriots, so few businesses are open on Sundays. However, many cafes, restaurants and clubs are open until 2am or later throughout the week.
Health - Before you go
No jabs necessary. Though tourists are receive free medical attention and treatment for emergencies at the Ambulatory and Emergency Department of Government Hospitals and Institutions, adequate insurance should be purchased to cover in-patient care and any unexpected health costs.
Health - When you are there
Tap water is safe to drink, but over-exposure to the sun can cause sunstroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration, not to mention a nasty sunburn. Take it easy, especially during the first few days. The embassy can recommend a doctor if necessary.
Warnings
Hire cars cannot be taken across the border between the Republic and North Cyprus. It is also advisable, though not necessary, to get Immigration to stamp a separate piece of paper rather than your passport when entering Northern Cyprus, for later ease of passage into the Republic or Greece.
Emergency
The emergency number is 199. British Embassy High Commission, Alexandrou Pallis St, PO Box 1978, Lefkosia. Tel: (00 357) 2 861100.
Customs
Family life and religion are central to the Cypriot way of life. Though Cypriots on both sides of the border are friendly and easy-going, most are fiercely patriotic and passions can rise over the island's partition.
Pets
Cyprus is now included in the PETS Travel Scheme, but be aware that organising the necessary vaccinations and documentation takes some months to set up. See your vet for details.
Tipping
10% service charge is sometimes added to restaurant bills; if not, leave a similar amount. Taxi drivers and hotel porters appreciate a small tip.
Tourist office
Cyprus Tourism Organisation, 213 Regent St, London W1R 8DA. Tel: 020 7569 8800.
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| | Available rental properties in Limassol |
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| |  | | The Old Mill House
Villa rent Limassol Cyprus. Cheap prices. Beautiful tranquil walks, golf, birdwatching, beaches, mountains and much besides.
|  | | Villa Vouno, Pissouri
HUGE WOW FACTOR. Overlooks the Pissouri pine forest with dramatic unobstructed sea views. 3 bedrooms all en’suite with private pool. !FREE USE OF CAR!
|  | | Duplex Villa in Pissouri
2-Bed Duplex Villa in Pissouri, Nr. Paphos. Beautiful location, built in 2005, spacious property with air-con. Large Communal Pool.
|  | | GG's Beach House
Luxury one bedroom house on Governors Beach
|  | | Tonia Beach House
Luxury one bedroom house on Governors Beach
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Holiday Rentals in Limassol |
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