HOLIDAY ROMANCE
VIBE
Cyprus is the birthplace of goddess of love Aphrodite – and it doesn’t take long to fall head over heels for the Asimina Suites Hotel.
The adults-only resort (16-plus), part of the Constantinou Bros group, is a classy establishment that provides a relaxing stay thanks to its idyllic vibes and impeccable customer service.
The friendly staff greet each guest with a glass of champagne and canapes on arrival before ensuring a luxury stay. It’s easy to forget about the stresses of modern life when you’re lying on a padded sun lounger under a palm tree and enjoying an ice-cold drink in glorious sunshine.
Constantinou Bros deliver on their promise of providing “traditional, genuine hospitality”.
There’s a reason why they have so many repeat bookings.
STYLE
The Asimina – with its marble bathrooms, sea-view balconies and spacious suites – offers everything you’d expect from a five-star hotel.
The all-suite property has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a tennis court, access to the largest beach in Paphos, a sizable gym and a spa offering a selection of treatments.
There are yoga and aqua classes, complimentary gin tastings and cocktail-making lessons. The Asimina even has a sauna reserved for nudists... if that’s what you’re into.
Bed and breakfast, half-board, full-board and deluxe all-inclusive packages are available. The Asimina is perfect for couples of all ages, especially those wanting to find a peaceful adults-only hotel during the school summer holidays.
Couples with little ones can stay at the four-star Athena Beach Hotel, a huge resort just down the beach from the Asimina. Constantinou Bros also boast the nearby Pioneer Beach and the Athena Royal Beach hotels. Both are four-star, adults-only establishments.
All hotels offer entertainment, with the Athena Royal hosting a traditional folklore show during my stay.
FOOD AND DRINK
The Asimina has two a la carte restaurants, including the Kymata overlooking the gorgeous Cypriot coast, plus a buffet.
Booking a table at the Kymata at sunset is an absolute must, as is enjoying a lush threecourse meal. I went for the roasted asparagus with feta, chilli and garlic salmon and the best red velvet cake I’ve ever tasted.
The Kymata was also on hand to serve gyros the following lunchtime, a go-to dish for anyone visiting
Cyprus. Loukoumades – doughnuts covered in a sauce of your choice – is another delicacy to devour. I kept going back for more, but thankfully my shorts were elasticated.
WHILE YOU’RE
THERE
The heart of Paphos is a short drive or leisurely walk away from the Asimina.
The city was named as European Capital of Culture in 2017 and was the last year’s European Capital of Smart Tourism due to significant investment from the local government.
Paphos has become one of Europe’s most fashionable tourism hotspots thanks to its delightful Old Town, which boasts a thrilling nightlife, countless restaurants and chic shops.
One of the Old Town’s most charming spots is The Place, an arts and crafts hub selling locally-sourced produce and hand-made keepsakes. Make sure to leave plenty of space in your checked luggage for presents!
Local restaurant Honey is another
essential visit due to its mouthwatering gourmet cuisine designed by the charismatic and intriguing chef Mr Riccos. It’s worth picking his brains if you get the chance.
I started with two soft-shell crabs before enjoying a succulent slab of pork belly and a side of tender vegetables.
The surprisingly sweet chardonnay recommended by house sommelier
Panayiotis also went down a treat.
A DAY OUT
Paphos’ main tourist attraction is the archaeological park, which contains relics from 400C through to the Middle Ages.
Most of the remains date back to the Roman period, including the stunning mosaic floors of villas. Many of these mosaics, which depict scenes from Greek Mythology, are still being excavated.
Holidaymakers can also take a day trip into the mountains to visit one of Cyprus’ superb wineries.
Oenou Yi-ktima Vassiliades, just outside the picturesque village of Omodos, produces some of the country’s finest drinks, including the traditional dessert wine commandaria and the explosive spirit zivania.
It’s also worth spending some time in Omodos and enjoying a meze at Stou Kir Yianni, a lively restaurant which serves perfected pork crackling.
Meanwhile, animal lovers will enjoy saying hello to the village’s huge cat community.
It’s time to whisk(ers) your other half away to the Asimina Suites.
‘‘
The delightful Old Town has restaurants, a thrilling nightlife and chic shops