Once the island’s administrative centre, Larnaka retains its elegant, colonial charm. The famous mile-long, seafront promenade is lined with palm trees, stretching from a luxury yacht marina at one end to an ancient medieval fortress at the other end.

The heart of the town is Kition – an ancient city-kingdom and birthplace of the philosopher Zeno. The streets are full of colour: blue jacaranda trees, purple bou-gainvillea and scarlet hibiscus. Away from the beach and the bustling centre with its modern cafes and tavernas, things are more quiet and refned. On the edge of the town is Salt Lake – an international stopover for thousands of beautiful flamingos and other migrant birds.

And not far away on a rocky peak, 750 metres up from sea level, is Stavrovouni Monastery. Founded in the fourth century by Saint Helena, mother of Constantine the Great, its monks are still famous for their iconic painting. The marina at Larnaka is soon to be extended, with hundreds of new berths. And one of the biggest golf and country clubs on the island is being built at Tersefanou, just fifteen minutes from the international airport.