WHY I LOVE CYPRUS
Singer songwriter and former member of boyband Blue, Antony Costa opens up about the magic Cyprus holds over him
MOST recognisable as one quarter of chart-topping pop band Blue, Antony Costa lived in Cyprus for several years as a child, and still has a strong family connection to the island.
‘My dad and Bapou (my grandad) are from a little place called Morphou and my Yiayia (my nan) is from Famagusta, which is on the east coast, close to Ayia Napa,’ he says.
‘When I was growing up I used to run down to the beach every day after school with my sister. We just lived a childhood dream that a beautiful country like Cyprus can give.’
Now living in north London, Antony, 38, still visits the island every year, and has now introduced his own children to the sunshine and culture of his youth.
‘The atmosphere is beautiful,’ he says. ‘Cyprus is not just about the sun and the food, it’s the people that make the country what it is. Cypriots pride themselves on a warm welcome and their hospitality, which you will find all over the island.
‘My favourite place has to be Protara, on the east coast. It has the whole package: beaches, great restaurants and warm, sparkling seas.’
And now he’s looking forward to returning when travel restrictions ease. ‘As soon as the opportunity arises, I can’t wait to get back out there, see my grandparents and soak up the sun,’ he says. ‘A warm summer evening, a traditional kabab in fresh pita and a Greek Keo beer is the perfect combination.’