AYIA NAPA
Ayia Napa may only be known to some for its allegedly hedonistic nightlife, but it is also a top destination for watersports enthusiasts. The strong seabreeze makes it a great location for windsurfing, and the area also caters for scuba-diving, swimmers, parascending and boating. Nissi Beach, about a mile from Ayia Napa town is the most popular stretch of sand in the region. Lined with bars, restaurants and hotels, the beach is always lively with music playing and holidaymakers relaxing. There's something there for everyone - watersports, a 50 metre bungee jump and an island within paddling distance! Its not just human sun-lovers who enjoy Nissi Beach though - some friendly pelicans occupy the nearby island. Makronissos is the most popular beach with the locals, but does get very busy at the weekends. About 6 kilometers from the town, it also offers a full complement of watersports. Like the rest of Cyprus, Ayia Napa also abounds with shops and bustling markets. Good buys include leather, clothing, jewellery and CD's - all of which tend to be considerably cheaper than in other countries. The area also has a good amount of shops open 24 hours a day, seven days a week - great for picking up breakfast as you stumble home from a big night out! And when clubbing and sunbathing has become to much, have a quick cultural interlude at Ayia Napa's Venetian-style monastery. The site has existed for thousands of years, and the overall Venetian style has been influenced by the variety of civilizations who at different times resided there. The monastery's walls were erected as protection from marauding pirates, and the fountains in the peaceful courtyard offer a great sense of serenity in an otherwise hectic area.
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