Travel blog post: colours of Cyprus

I have just come back from Cyprus and had a great time. I wanted to share a few interesting photos of things that caught my eye while walking around in various places, especially of the rich colours and patterns on buildings and in textiles. Cyprus has a rich history of different cultures all putting their stamp on the island, and of course at present it is still divided in a Greek and a Turkish part. The Greek side is more modern and developed with many large hotels and plenty of activity along the many beaches, while the Turkish side is quieter with less of that going on and more strips of beach all to yourself, though there are lots of villas being built for foreigners wanting their own place in the sun. At times it can be hard to look through all the ugly building developments, noisy bars as well as rubbish left on beaches, which unfortunately you see, but if you venture away from the beaten track you'll soon come across the real beauty and authenticity that Cyprus has to offer - both in the South and the North. A great island all around.

Beautiful colours in this carpet in  the Halan Sultan Tekke mosque, Larnaca, South Cyprus

Some true vintage furniture in Bellapais, Kyrenia, North Cyprus

Glorious bougainvillea growing in an old plastic barrel, Kyrenia, North Cyprus

Various street scenes in Nicosia

fantastic handmade lace in Lefkara, South Cyprus

Rich colours, blue paint and red geranium in Lefkara, South Cyprus

Lace shop in Lefkara, South Cyprus

Striking blue wall at the local museum of Lefkara, South Cyprus

Sunlight and shadows on a beautiful yellow door in Bellapais, North Cyprus

Great selection of carpets in the Halan Sultna Tekke mosque in Larnaca, South Cyprus

Blue, blue blue....in Lefkara, South Cyprus

Bright yellow flower and blue furniture on the beach in Larnaca