The Edro III Shipwreck is one of Cyprus’ few coastal shipwrecks visible without getting wet. Nevertheless, divers should also be excited by what lies beneath the surface. Stranded just 20 metres offshore near Pafos’s sea caves since 2011, this 83-metre freighter tilts at an angle, its hull rusting into abstract patterns against the limestone cliffs. The Sierra Leone-flagged vessel ran aground in a storm while transporting plasterboard to Rhodes, its crew rescued by British forces. For divers, the wreck offers a rare shallow exploration (5 metres at its deepest). The propeller remains intact, though a gaping hole in the starboard side reveals corroded forklifts frozen mid-task. Schools of fish dart through the skeletal frame, while scattered debris leads to two nearby reefs: one culminating in a sea cave, the other dropping into an 18-metre gully. Above water, the wreck’s industrial starkness against the Mediterranean blues makes it a magnet for sunset photographers. Local operators run guided dives, but even snorkellers can appreciate the eerie spectacle. With removal deemed impractical, Edro III seems destined to remain Cyprus’ most accessible maritime time capsule.

Once the Roman forum, this square has always been at the centre of local life. It’s still busy, surrounded by old buildings, cafés, and market stalls selling souvenirs and snacks. A good place to pause and take in the mix of history and noise, especially if you grab a cup of coffee and just watch the flow.

Madinat Al Shamal is located in the northern most part of Qatar, just near the tip, where it came into existence in the 1970s, and though, today, it is probably Qatar’s most least populated area, it is surrounded by dilapidated and abandoned fishing villages, and a range of beaches to relax, soak in the sun and enjoy the experience, and year round, visitors flock to the area to enjoy all that Madinat Ash Shamal has to offer.

Well-known events and festivals create a vibrant and colourful atmosphere all over the island. One of the brightest events is the Carnival, taking place in February and March in all towns. The Flower Festival, which occurs every May, celebrates the beauty of spring with a floral exhibition boasting the rich variety of Cyprus’ authentic wild flora. Throughout the year, music, dance and theatre festivals, operas, ancient drama and modern ballets enrich Cyprus cultural calendar. Athletic events such as Regattas, cycling races, the Cyprus Rally, the international Open Marathon, beach volley tournaments and sporting events with competitions in boxing, karate, triathlon, marathon, shooting, rhythmic gymnastics and cycling are just a few of the annual athletic events that take place in every corner of Cyprus.