This remains true even today, although many of what were once the most popular resorts on the northern and eastern shores are still under Turkish occupation. The fact that 37 per cent of the total area of the island has been effectively deprived of its independence, has not taken away its attractive landscape, pleasant climate, nor its rich historical and cultural heritage. Driving a little way inland from the coast, you reach the pine forests. In winter, you are only an hour from the ski slopes of the Troudos mountains. Springtime arrives with a burst of kaleidoscopic colours.
Summer brings sunshine and endless blue skies.
The western part of Cyprus is still unspoilt, despite the depredations of tourists and soldiers. There lies Paphos, the island's capital in Roman times. It is reputedly the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Venus of Roman mythology. Sheltered from the north by the Troudos range, it has the most appealing year-round climate. Among its beaches, the most splendid is the aptly-named Coral Bay.