What's On Cyprus

There are loads of beach bars in Cyprus, and then there’s Nissi Bay Beach Bar … it's the kind of place that instantly reminds you why Ayia Napa became one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic summer destinations back in the early 90’s.  Sitting directly opposite the Nissi, aka the island, on the white sands of Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa, this legendary hotspot blends tropical beach-club energy with unmistakable Cypriot summer madness.  And honestly, the moment I first stepped onto the sand with a cocktail in my hand and the bassline from the DJ booth rolling across the bay, I understood exactly why this place is so unique.

An eatery of the highest esteem, I love the crazy paved terrace, shaded by tall mature trees, that twinkle delightfully as the sun sets, the crazy colourful tables and chairs, almost kindergarden'ish, little alcoves of comfy seating, hammocks set up high in the trees, whilst down a tier, skirting the rocks, a pathway leading to the almost private beach on the left, that'll have mellow music and waiter service and there's plenty of sunbeds, all with a view to die for, a sea of serenity at Sirena Bay ...

This is where they excel, specialising in over 20 different choices of kebabs.  Gyros here is a choice of 4 meats, pork, chicken from Greece, beef and lamb from the UK, each cut into thin slices, layered and seasoned, and set onto big skewers ready to be imported.  Vangelis said, "I spend a little extra, but I get the very best" ... I asked "do you then add a little more seasoning" and he said "there's really no need", tbh, the beef Gyro was probably the best I've ever tasted ...

To Steki tou Boss, in the heart of Paralimni is an authentic Cypriot Taverna, offering that 'Home from Home' feeling! Inside the décor, in one part designer influenced bespoke wooden tables and chairs made really comfy, patchwork high stools up at the bar, blended with cafe-style seating, lots of wood, village artefacts everywhere, plants and really cool lighting. The menu is a tick list of what's in the kitchen so you create your own meze, 3 of those, 2 of these, none of them etc ... just brilliant .... Highly recommended ... Click on the article for a Map and More ...

Since they opened, this pub, come restaurant, has really gained an excellent reputation, firstly for their delicious food, passionately cooked by George, and equally for their traditional Cypriot Hospitality, Entertainment, and welcoming atmosphere.  On the menu, you'll get British all-the-way food ..

Naturally I had to ask why Mambo’s, I joked, nothing to do with Nando’s?, he smiled and said "maybe" … explaining “if anything, we wanted to bring a new concept to the area, with a hint of a Mediterranean fusion with South America” … But I love the name, the décor very cool, the little touches here and there tells you know they mean business.  There’s a lovely long terrace on the sunny mornings side of the road, and indoors spacious for your parties … or those chilli winter nights …

Recently, Koulla invited me to try their fish platter on their weekly Cyprus Night with a traditional Cypriot dance group ... I'm so glad I went there hungry because the fish platter was big ... Their Greek dancing just awesome, traditional, right down to the famous glass tower dance, this guy is amazing, and when they get everyone up to join in its totally unique because of this perfect location, outside, with the little church as a backdrop and all of harbour approach is your dance floor with many passer-byes stopping to see what's on ... brilliant! btw it every Wednesday night, regulations permitting

It's on the corner of the entrance to Bar street, and btw, it's one of the oldest bars in Napa!  Hosts Andreas and Karina, are completely 'down to earth' and absolutely love their pub and have continued it's 30 year tradition by being one of the only bars that stay open all year.  Joining the crew recently Kevin of Three Lions Pub fame is bringing the pub grub menu to another level.  Naturally it's a favourite with locals and long stay workers and of course they look after everyone that wants to join them, tbh, it's one big happy family here, and quite unique!

Literally on the quay, so you can paddle your toes in the sea and feed the fish, make use of the free Wifi as you sip your coffee, an ice cold beer, afternoon G'n'T or fresh Strawberry Daiquiri and arguably the best Margaritas you'll ever taste ... then savour the freshest Fish Meze on the harbour ... it really is a cut above the rest with panoramic views that stretch to Cape Greco especially at sunset, it's an explosion of colours ...

It's where Tranquillity & Energy Unite, Tulum Beach Bar effortlessly bridges the gap between relaxation and excitement.  As the weekdays roll in, the atmosphere transforms into a sanctuary of calm.  Whitewashed wooden furniture and flowing curtains create an ambiance that beckons you to escape the chaos of daily life.  But hold on, for when the weekend sun rises, Tulum flips its script.  Enter a world where the best local DJs spin Techno melodies that resonate through the air.  The contrast is nothing short of astonishing.