Oh it feels good to be back on this picturesque island. I am welcomed with bright sunny skies, mild temperatures and a coastline full of beaches and views of the endless horizon. Returning to the same city I was in last time; here are my second impressions of Paphos Cyprus.
Promenade
What was under construction on my last visit two years ago, is now complete. A coastal promenade that stretches for miles and miles in either direction from Venus Beach. I am thrilled that this investment was seen to fruition and to witness it being used by so many is wonderful.
The paved walkway stretches left, right up to the Paphos fortress and harbour, and right as far as I can walk it. All along the route are covered seating areas, benches, garbage cans and little information boards about the flora and fauna. This is where I find myself gravitating to each and every morning, to begin my day.
Cats
I don’t remember this many cats from my last visit, but am I ever full of joy to see so many. Most are looking very healthy and they are all fed and watered by tourists and locals. The ones along the promenade are especially friendly and seem like family groups.
Off Season
It is definitely the off season in the winter months. Many shops, restaurants, cafes and such are closed up tight. There are virtually no loungers anywhere along the beaches, except for a handful at the municipal beach.
There is a lot of construction happening and a few more abandoned buildings than I remember. These together with many things closed, gives the impression that Paphos is perhaps losing its luster. I cannot make a judgement, as I don’t visit during the peak season when all is crowded, hot and busy.
Expensive
Just as expensive as my last visit, I won’t be eating out while I am here. The restaurant prices and even cafés are beyond my budget. Groceries at the Lidl store are reasonable though. The archaeological sites are especially affordable which means I can visit these again on this trip.
Accommodation is very expensive here. If I ever do return to Cyprus after this trip, it might just be the Turkish side that I explore. I have heard that prices there are much more affordable for almost everything.
I’m thrilled to be back. Currently Cyprus is still non-Schengen, which means even though it is part of the EU, I can visit a country like Italy for a full 90 days and then come here for another 90. If it joins Schengen in the near future, which I hear is on the table, I won’t be coming back. Well not to the EU side anyways. For now, I will soak up the sunshine, bask in the views and sink my toes into that fluffy soft sand.
