There are various reasons why one should really consider holidaying in the Cypriot countryside, surrounded by the beauty of nature and a wealth of traditional culture.

The first reason may be the enjoyment of a different kind of holiday in Cyprus, off the beaten track in peace and tranquillity. Cyprus is still a country where it is easy to be in the countryside in the early morning and hear a cock crowing or a donkey braying, take lunch in the shade of a tree with the smell of jasmine or wild thyme in the air, and go for a long walk in the pine-scented forest. Watching how the local bread and halloumi cheese are made and experiencing rural living at first hand are the great joys of life that many of us have either forgotten or never had.

And when the sun goes down, one can just lie back in the cool breeze and enjoy Cyprus’s magical evening, gazing at one of the starriest skies one will ever see, lulled by the gentle sounds of the night crickets.

A second reason why one should visit Cyprus these days is its cuisine. One can try a little bit of everything by ordering ‘mezedes’ and wash all these small morsels of different food down with one of the local beers or wines. The sweet Commandaria wine is one of the oldest in the world, and if one is brave enough, having a shot of zivania, which is almost pure alcohol, is a great ending to a delightful meal.

A third reason to catch the daily Emirates flight to Larnaca is that Cyprus is perfect at any time of the year. Blessed with an abundance of sunshine and warm temperatures even in January and February, Cyprus is a great place to enjoy the winter sun while avoiding the summer crowds. With rugged coasts and mountains peaks, sunny vineyards and cool pine forests, flat expanses of wheat fields and lush citrus orchards, the island has something for everyone whether one likes to drive around, ramble on countryside footpaths or cycle from village to village.

For those who enjoy discovering little known historical treasures, Cyprus has a wonderful spectrum of spectacular Greek temples, opulent Byzantine churches and ancient artefacts that are the remnants of civilisations going back 10,000 years.

And one final reason to top it all is Emirates’ latest offer valid until 28 February 2010. With just e299 per person, Emirates, in collaboration with EC Travel Services, is offering a three-night stay at the stunning five-star Intercontinental Aphrodite Hills Resort in Cyprus. The package includes the Emirates daily flight to Larnaca and three nights’ accommodation in a double room on bed and buffet breakfast basis and including taxes.

Further information and bookings for this package can be made at the local travel agents or directly with EC Travel Services on telephone 2132 3232.