For many travellers, a visit to Northern Cyprus feels like stepping back in time. This region, which is controlled by Turkey, is a world away from the busy resorts, malls, and familiar international chains that can be found in the south. Instead, visitors will find remote villages and a slower pace of life. This sense of suspended animation can be traced back to the Turkish invasion of 1974, which led to the north becoming isolated from the rest of the world and self-proclaimed as a republic, recognized only by Turkey. Northern Cyprus stretches from the Karpass Peninsula to Morphou Bay, Cape Kormakitis, and its westernmost point, the Kokkina exclave. The southernmost point of Northern Cyprus is the village of Louroujina. This region is separated from the rest of the island by a buffer zone controlled by the United Nations, which also divides Nicosia, the largest city on the island and the capital of both north and south Cyprus. Despite its isolated status, Northern Cyprus has a lot to offer travellers. Its two prettiest towns, Girne and Gazimağusa, are located here, as well as half of the capital city. The region is home to three of the island's mightiest Crusader castles (St Hilarion, Buffavento and Kantara) and the island's most important archaeological site at Salamis. The Kyrenia Mountains, in particular, are a hiker's paradise, and many of the region's beaches are relatively untouched by high-rise resorts. Additionally, a visit to Northern Cyprus provides the unique opportunity to experience two very different cultures: the Orthodox Greek Cypriot and the Muslim Turkish Cypriot worlds. The north can also feel more affordable than the south, as it is not part of the Eurozone. Its tourist infrastructure is not as well-developed yet.

The imposing Mount Pelée towers over the island of Martinique with a menacing gaze. The volcano is going through a quiet phase, but it is still active, and as recently as 1902 had a violent eruption that destroyed the city of Saint-Pierre. Visitors today can hike up to the summit and marvel at the views on a clear day.

Every year, in June, several countries compete to elect the best animation film, in several categories. At this festival, which often paves the way to the Oscars and the Palms for animated movies, you can enjoy premieres and benefit from open air showings on the Pâquier lawn.

Larnaca is where East meets West, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of the world and a fascinating blend of the many civilizations that shaped its history. This quiet seafront city, situated on the southeastern coast of Cyprus, near the island’s main airport, is a perfect starting point from which to explore Cyprus and its endless possibilities. Villages offering agrotourism, beautiful beaches, sports and recreation options, cultural events, religious tourism and authentic Cyprus taverns are just some of the choices in and around town. Welcome to Larnaca, the gateway to Cyprus. See the Old Town and enjoy the sun and sea at the seafront. Here, there are many clubs, lounges and bars. The ruins of Kition, founded by Noah’s grandchild Kittim, and the 17th-century fort are certainly worth seeing. After Mecca and Medina, the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, built in honour of the prophet Mohammed’s relative is one of the Muslims’ most important destinations for pilgrimages. A most-fascinating site is Choirokoitia, a settlement from the earliest period of the Stone Age.