The Straz Center for the Performing Arts opened its doors more than 35 years ago and it is the most distinguished performing arts space south of the Kennedy Center. It hosts the nation’s leading Broadway series and it is known for producing operas along with concerts, performances and events.

Once sleepy fishing villages, the fabulous beaches of fine white sand of Agia Napa and Protaras, and the coastal area of Paralimni with its hundreds of windmills, nowadays buzz with life. This area is known collectively as the Kokkinochoria, “red soil villages,” because of the rich red earth in which Cyprus’ famous potatoes are grown. Culture lovers can explore the medieval churches found in villages like Sotira or go around the folk art museums displaying rural artefacts in Deryneia and Avgorou. Children will love the Marine Life museum or the new Sea Museum, “Thalassa”, in Agia Napa, which has an amazing replica of a 4th-century trading ship which sank off the coast of Kyrenia. Or you could stop at the tiny estuary known by the locals as Potamos and watch the fishing boats haul in their catch in their multi-coloured baskets. Spend the day sunbathing at the beach, swimming in warm turquoise waters or taking a short cruise along the coast. Some of the best snorkelling and diving spots are at Cape Greco, the national forest park, with its secluded coves and rocky outcrops, impressive cliff-top views and sea caves. In the evening, dine at one of the many restaurants, especially the local ones in Paralimni, or jive to the latest sounds at one of the numerous nightclubs.

Adventure Island is a water park that borders Busch Gardens in Tampa. With over 30 acres of water-related activities including water slides, corkscrew slides, a rambling river, and a giant wave pool, Adventure Island has something for everyone, including cabanas to just lounge around in the sun.

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.