Day 6–11: Chilling in Cyprus

Weather Update: Sunny with expected showers | Highs: 19°C

Elevation Above Sea Level: 220 metres

I'm taking a few days off before travelling to Greece. My original plan was to head to Israel and Jordan. Still, new visa rules—requiring an ETA (Electronic Transfer Authority) for 25 Israeli Shekels—meant I couldn’t secure a visa in time. With that plan cancelled my next stops are now Greece and Albania.

A Pause in the Journey

There’s something truly refreshing about pausing the relentless pace of travel. In Cyprus, the island is gradually buzzing with more activity as budget airlines like EasyJet, Ryanair, and Wizz Air resume flights later this month. Over the past week, I’ve noticed an influx of European travellers escaping the winter chill.

Every day, I wander into town, catch up on the local football scene at a spot called Cheers (with a cold beer in hand), and enjoy the friendly vibe along Ledra Street near the border. My host, Julia, always adds a little extra charm by offering popcorn, and today, I even had a fascinating chat with two travellers from Vienna who had escaped their winter for some sunshine.

Under the Starry Sky

From the rooftop lounge, the view never disappoints. Last night, I gazed up at the moon and the glowing planet Venus, and for a moment, I was completely mesmerized by the night sky. Moments like these remind me why a good camera is essential—even if it adds to the 8 kg of personal effects I carry.

Culinary Adventures and Local Flavours

The local pastry shop has become a favourite stop. Last night, I tried squid for the first time—a delightfully hearty dish, with generously sized pieces that didn’t leave you wanting more. Though rain dampened the evening, today the sun has returned, lifting the spirits of locals and travellers alike.

On my wanderings, I met a fascinating traveller from Wellington, Nina. Having been away for a year, she nearly lost hope of connecting with a fellow Kiwi until she overheard me talking with my son in Whangarei—a reminder of how small the world can feel when you’re far from home.

Hostel Life and Evening Reflections

The hostel is a revolving door of faces, with new people arriving as others depart. I’ve grown fond of Cyprus during this time of year: chilly mornings that warm by midday, much like the weather in Nepal, and friendly locals always ready to lend a hand. Last night, after a comforting chicken curry dinner and a lively football match, the hostel’s communal noise—sparked by a few snorers—led me to the rooftop. I dragged some cushions onto the lounge beds and slept under the stars until the early hours before retreating to my room to tinker on my computer.

Pastry Shop:

Breakfast the following morning was a mixed experience. The Pandora Special featured toast with grilled halloumi, bacon, and two undercooked fried eggs topped with a mild mustard spread that left something to be desired. However, the bakery’s other offerings were delightful and conveniently just steps away from the hostel.

Departure to New Horizons

After breakfast, I walked just over 1.5 km to the bus station. A short trip to Larnaca costs only 4 Euros (roughly 7.53 NZD), with an additional 2.40 Euros (about 4.52 NZD) for the bus from Larnaca to the airport. Larnaca—a vibrant Mediterranean tourist city—offers a distinct vibe compared to Nicosia. While its castle piqued my interest, I can’t help but feel a deeper connection to the charm of Nicosia.

My flight leaves at 5 pm, arriving in Athens around 6:45 pm, followed by a brief 40–50-minute journey from the airport to my next stop, Bedway Athens Hostel.

This journey is more than just travel—it’s a discovery of diverse cultures and a continuous exchange of stories. Each day, whether filled with quiet moments or unexpected encounters, weaves together a tapestry of memories from around the world. I’m excited to see what awaits as I continue exploring, both in Europe and beyond