Cyprus – A Gourmet's Paradise

Although fiercely fought over for years, Cyprus's split heritage of Greek and Turkish influences have blended seamlessly into its cuisine. But Cyprus has also been occupied by many other nations during its turbulent history, so the influence of Armenian, Syrian, French and even Italian cooking have had a role in creating a varied mix of flavours that are now accepted to be 'typically Cypriot'.

Meat plays a big part in Cypriot cooking, and vegetarians will find that it seems to dominate most menus. But Cypriot restaurants are beginning to think of vegetarians, and the island's crops of fresh fruit and vegetables, pulses and grains are plentiful and have that amzing local freshness. Salads feature heavily in Cypriot cooking, so there should be a happy selection for everyone, no matter what your preferences. Because of Cyprus's hot climate, tomatoes, aubergines and avocados are grown across the island and are found in many dishes.

The concept of Cypriot dining is very different from the traditional three-course meal. Here, the idea is to sample lots of dishes and share them between friends, echoing the Mediterranean idea of communal dining. Known as Meze, diners are supplied with a seemingly continuous supply of small plates with dips like taramasalata and tahini supplied with plenty of fresh breads. Olives are frequently included as are vine leaves stuffed with rice and meat and the famous souvla. Souvla are chunks of meat threaded onto a spit and grilled over charcoal. Meze dining is an excellent way to sample a wide variety of Cypriot cuisine, but the island is also famous for its casseroles and stews as well.

Cyprus is one of the most popular destinations in the Mediterranean and as such there is a huge variety of villas in Cyprus to choose from. Luxurious yet maintaining a typically Mediterranean feel, these quality villas offer guests the chance to try their hand at a little Cypriot cuisine of their own. Although there are lots of convenience stores that sell the typical European selection of goods and food essentials, the best way to buy food in Cyprus is to visit the busy markets that form the centre of every town and village. It is also an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in Cypriot culture and to learn about local traditions and the people who live and work in the area you are staying. Many people speak english in the south of the island (thanks to a strong British connection), so there are rarely any problems with making yourself understood.

Although meat is a strong feature of Cypriot cooking, sea food is also well represented with regular catches of fish and shellfish coming ashore each day from local fishing fleets. Eating out is still very cost effective, although Cyprus villas offer you the chance of keeping costs even lower while experiencing the full range of flavours and produce that Cyprus has to offer.

Cyprus holidays are as popular as ever, and excellent transport facilities and international airports at strategic locations on the island make transfers to most of the popular resorts very easy. With holiday villas, expanses of beautiful beaches, no shortage of history, modern and ancient and a rich culture complete with an astonishing array of gastronomic influences, Cyprus is the ideal destination for food lovers.

The choices of holidays in Cyprus are wide and varied with villas in Cyprus being just one of the options. Hotels of different types are all over this fascinating island, as are holiday apartments, local guest houses and specialist resort accommodation.