On our recent trip to Cyprus we stayed at the Elysium Beach Resort, Paphos. Being early May, Cyprus was only 2 weeks into its summer - later than usual following much rain. We saw evidence: full lakes and reservoirs on the island from the air as our plane approached the airport. We finally landed, the plane door opened and we were greeted by a heatwave from outside. A warm welcome from Cyprus in what seems like a light-year away from the cold misery of Gatwick. A taxi driver greeted us outside the airport and whisked us off on the 30 minute journey to the hotel.

We'd seen pictures of the Elysium in brochures but the visual realisation was another matter. A grand square with a fountain lead to an impressive façade and entrance via a draw-bridge. The exterior, rendered in reddish earth-tones make this building unique amongst the faceless 60s and 70s grey box-like hotels abounding in Paphos. We found out later that the design of the hotel was based on references to the nearby 'TOMB OF KINGS' -an historical site of great importance. Well-mannered and efficient staff saw to our baggage and we entered the vast space of the entrance hall.

Throughout our week's holiday, the Elysium surprised us and exceeded our expectations on almost every front. We were pleased with our room {normally, I am hard to please and fussy about hotel rooms}. The west-facing sea view from our room {see photo} was ideal for shooting the ever-changing sunsets from the balcony. As was the semi-circular terrace looking out over the many and varied pool options, designed and landscaped intelligently. The in-house Aveda Health Spa was the real gem of the hotel and Vanessa and I loved the relaxation room and expert massage facilities.

We hired a jeep for a couple of days to enable us to reach Lara Beach, a very quiet area north of Paphos. Here we saw white extended Land Rovers full of TURTLE SPOTTERS on guided tours. These people appeared serious and took up a position in a hut over the beach with binoculars. The area around Lara is famous as a haven for sea turtles. Although over the 3 days we visited - we saw none.

In conclusion, we loved Lara Beach and the ice-cold Keo beers in the friendly Tavernas around the Paphos area. But most of all we loved the Elysium. A world-class resort, we came away feeling invigorated, pampered and at-ease with things. Mission accomplished: a successful holiday. It was one of those rare {or unique} occasions where the holiday brochure actually UNDERSTATED its promises. We'll be back…

Stan Smith, May 2003