Cyprus is renowned for its hot weather, rich cultural background and diverse range of activities, making it the perfect place for a family-friendly holiday.

There is plenty to keep both adults and children occupied, including excellent beaches, a variety of sightseeing opportunities and many water parks and restaurants.

A trip to Cyprus would not be complete without spending a lot of time down by the beach topping up your tan – and the island does not disappoint in this area, with numerous sandy stretches of shoreline overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Coral Bay Beach is particularly popular, having obtained a Blue Flag certification in terms of quality, safety and conservation efforts.

Close to Coral Bay is perhaps Cyprus’ most well-known seaside spot, Aphrodite’s Beach.

Greek myth suggests that this is where the goddess of love rose from the foamy waters close to a stone named Aphrodite’s Rock.

Whether you believe the legend or not, this is a fabulous place to sit by the shore and soak up the sun’s rays while enjoying the stunning scenery, including the waves crashing against the large white rocks that stick out from the sea.

For an educational day trip, a visit to the Cyprus Museum is a great way of learning more about the island, with the institution boasting one of the best collections of archaeological finds in the region.

This includes three limestone lions and two sphinxes with distinct Egyptian features that were uncovered in the Tamassos necropolis.

Tourists can also see the statues of Emperor Septimus Severus and the famed Aphrodite of Soli, which is often used on promotional tourism posters for Cyprus.

One of the most impressive exhibits is a display of terracotta figures found in 1929, which depict a number of warriors and chariots, with references to fertility and the underworld.

For a more action-packed day out that will no doubt keep the children happy, try visiting one of Cyprus’ amazing water parks.

The largest on the island is Fasouri Watermania, with the attraction boasting a massive selection of fun-filled rides and water-based activities.

Try out Europe’s biggest wave pool or have a go on the Kamikaze Slide, paddle boats or the long lazy river ride, all of which will occupy the kids through the morning and afternoon.

If you are feeling hungry, Fasouri Watermania has a number of options, including Pirates’ Cove Restaurant, with diners able to select from a menu of pizzas, burgers and gourmet cold sandwiches.

However, if you are looking for a place to eat out in the evening, there are several high-quality venues to explore in Cyprus.

St Georges Tavern in Paphos is excellent if you like fresh, organic food, with all dishes made from ingredients grown specifically in the owner’s allotment and grounds.

You can enjoy the fruits of a large herb garden, wine produced from locally-sourced grapes and dishes prepared using a meat-smoking cabin, making this one eating experience you will remember for a long time.

The menu consists of a selection of authentic meals, including kleftico – oven-baked lamb – and a fantastic meze, which is a collection of small dishes served as a starter.

Paphos is also where the Windmill Restaurant is located, with this popular family-owned business being a favourite among tourists and locals alike.

With great hospitality, a wide choice of traditional Greek fare and a homely setting, it is a must for families hoping to enjoy an evening out.

La Geria in Lanzarote is one of the island’s most intriguing tourist attractions, with the unique agricultural landscape being used to grow wine.

When thinking about vineyards, most people will conjure up images of luscious fields and colourful foliage; however, the vineyards of La Geria utilise a cultivating technique that is used solely in Lanzarote.

During the 1730s, around one-third of the island was covered in ash following a series of volcanic eruptions that also destroyed most of the crops at the time, such as cereal.

This meant the farmers who stayed in Lanzarote instead of choosing to emigrate to America had to come up with a way of growing produce in the ash that was present on a large portion of the land.

Fortunately, this ashy substance had a number of features that enabled the workers to formulate a process for making wine that proved very successful.

The granules of volcanic rock, called picon, could be used as a porous mulch as it was able to absorb moisture from the surrounding air and distribute it in the ground.

This not only prevented evaporation, but also overcame a problem farmers in the region had suffered over the years with all crops – a lack of rainfall.

Known as ‘enarenado’, this form of dry cultivation is used solely in Lanzarote, making the landscape a fascinating stop on any tour of the island.

In order to protect the vines from strong winds, each one is planted individually, with a small semi-circular wall named a zoco built around them.

These walls are made from volcanic stone, forming an added layer of defence against adverse weather conditions.

Each vine is also planted at a depth of 1 to 1.5 metres in order to ensure they are fully grounded when winds are high.

This spectacular agricultural landscape is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Lanzarote and provides some excellent photo opportunities.

Due to the nature of this viniculture, it is fairly labour intensive, with each vine needing to be planted manually, while each grape is handpicked come harvest season.

Around three-quarters of the crop in La Geria is Malvasia grape, resulting in a sweet wine that was once a favoured tipple of European aristocracy. Nowadays, the island is still famous for its dessert wines.

The remaining 25 per cent of the vineyards cultivate Diego, Muscatel and Pedro Ximenez grapes.

If you are keen to actually taste some of the local wines, there are a number of bodegas – small grocery stores – that line the main bumpy road in La Geria.

Here, you can find a vast selection of red, white and rose variants, enabling you to plan your own mini sampling tour fairly easily.

Those keen to learn more about the history of wine-making in Lanzarote should visit the Canary Islands’ oldest bodega, the El Grifo winery in Masdache.

Founded in 1775, it has a wine museum that extensively details the island’s long tradition in vineyards and agricultural pursuits.

Tourists can view authentic old presses, alembics, laboratory instruments, bottling tools, pumps and filters, as well as other farming equipment used during the production process.

Looking for wine to take home with you? There is also a sales room in the museum where you can find a large choice of some of Lanzarote’s best wines.

The entire region of India is a treat for all senses as every traveller to this land will readily agree.

Vibrant visuals, enchanting sounds, charming chaos, fragrant feasts, tantalizing tastes and touch of smooth silk or sticky sandalwood are very much inherent in India. Many a times, the sights and sounds can simply overwhelm an unprepared visitor but the timeless magnetism makes India an unexpected yet welcomed adventure of all time.

Kerala treats

The state where backwater cruises are a must, together with the Ayurveda treatments, presents many simple luxuries treats. The backwater cruise tours are big draw for all travelers who can enjoy unique experience of staying a boat house while immersed in a serene scenic setting. Other stunning sights include numerous waterfalls such as Palaruvi, Thusharagiri among others. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and other national parks, Munnar hill station with beautiful views as well as other interesting sights in Cochin.

Home-stays

In a country with numerous heritage hotels- palaces and historic monuments turned to grand hotels- home-stays with locals will present visitors an authentic experience. Staying with accommodating families who will be prove to be genuine guides of the region visited, with some delicious local food included. Not only is this cost-effective way to travel, it also gives those on tour to enjoy a warm and cozy setting while getting to know their destinations more intimately.

Visiting spice markets

The spicy food of India is often a conversation starter and can be a concern for the uninitiated. While consuming such fiery food may not appeal to all on tour, strolling around spice markets will certainly be an enjoyable experience for all. The hubbub of the busy markets, with colourful food in all shapes and sizes, accompanied by the potent spices traded by seasoned sellers is another facet of lively India. There are spice markets in every major Indian city including one in Delhi’s Khari Baoli. This spice market tour is one distant way of relishing the spices, if one chooses to abstain from the hot tasting dishes.

Cultural Performances

Indian classical music and dance is considered a sacred art, dedicated to the respective Hindu deities. While carnatic music may not be mainstream fare, it is still mesmerizing as music has no boundaries in weaving its magic on all listeners. The classical dance, mastered over years of dedicated practise, will also cast its spell on audience who will be amazed at the expertise of dancers. They remain in full control of facial expressions while keeping to the beat and hand gestures. Their mastery of their talents is as amazing as the entire performances. Such live classical programs are regular events in Chennai and other cities, where culture takes high precedence.

Temple visits

The land of Hinduism, where major pilgrimage sites can be found in all main states of India, it is not uncommon to find temples every region of India. Dedicated to various Hindu deities, temples have varying origins with some existing in early or even before the 10th century BC. Many ancient temples still stand tall and proud beside the younger counterparts. Madurai especially is renowned for the tall temples with vibrant believers and architecture. Temple visits allow travelers to admire the distinct architectures as well as the rituals and prayers that are conducted daily in the sacred walls.

Indian Railway

Said to be the longest railway tracks in the world, with a world renowned segment nicknamed the ‘Toy Train’which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a journey on the Indian trains is a default inclusion in any travel itinerary. Providing lowcost and speedy journey between the various tour attractions, cities and villages, the railway also covers some of the most scenic spots along the way. Many will declare that journey the Nilgiri train to Ooty is the actual destination rather than the hillstation itself. The hilly terrain with superb views of the valleys is a fine example of the views one can enjoy while travelling on the Indian trains. Equally stunning landscape but one of the coastal region is the train trip from Goa to New Delhi. Travelling around India is always a visual adventure- whether one walks, drives, commutes by train or any other available transport.

Elephant Safari

India is the land with the Asian grasslands and its wide landscape allows it to be home to multitude species of flora and fauna, with a number of them on the endangered list. The wildlife enjoy great protection in the various wildlife sanctuaries found all across India. The well-being of the creatures are usually the top priority. To ensure safety of visitors, trekking or walking tours may be prohibited in some of the nature reserves and sanctuaries. Going on an elephant ride has proven to be the best way to view many of the wild creatures up close, without agitating any of the animals. Elephant rides can also be arranged when visiting the royal palaces in Jaipur and Jodhpur. These regal rides are part of the royal experiences that visitors can expect when exploring the land of the Rajput.

Camel Safari

In a diverse landscape that is India, it is not surprising to tour bustling cities, idyllic beaches, lush plantations or the arid desert. Rajasthan, the biggest state of India is home to the Thar desert which borders the magnificent cities of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, to name a few. While treks to the fabulous forts and palaces are fascinating part of any travel plan, the camel safari to the desert, either for a sunset or overnight trip, remains an unsurpassed experience. The gentle ships of the desert allow the rider to enjoy wonderful views, not possible from the ground, while presenting a challenge to remain seated on the humps, especially for the inexperienced visitors.

Mehendi

Traditionally used on the hands of the Indian bride and bridegroom, the mehendi paste is made from the henna powder known for its rich blood-red dye. It is said that the depth of the redness indicates how much the bride loves her husband to be. Elaborate designs beautify the brides’ palms and fingers, The groom usually spots maroon topped fingers as the henna paste is left to cover the finger tips and mounds of the paste left to make dyed spots in circular arrangement on his palms. Now mehendi can be sported on any festive occasions by the ladies and visitors, on tour to any region of India, should have a go at their hands decorated in rich red patterns that are created in free-flow. The temporary dye has a strong smell but not pungent. The deep colour will wear off in days unlike the memory of mehendi covered hands.

Bollywood Movies

The industry that produces majority of movies released worldwide and with glamorous and incredibly good-looking celebrities and talented artistes, is the Mumbai magnet, drawing visitors and starlets looking for their big break. Catching a Bollywood movie on the big screen will certainly bring the larger than life characters, literally larger and more poignant. The most glitzy costumes, with song and dance of revelry and credible acting is something to savor up close. With so much to enjoy and explore, many have gladly agreed that a single tour to India is never enough to experience all that the incredible land has to offer. And repeated travel visits will not in any way, diminish the amazing allure of incredible India.