One Road- Ariann Mieka

I couldn’t ask for a better way to bring in my 30 th birthday than a trip to Cyprus. I always try to celebrate another year of life by doing something special and since 30 is a landmark birthday I wanted to do something big to commemorate the milestone! I didn’t know anything about this island but I fell in love and got excited about the different landscapes, a new favorite local wine called Commandaria and the ever-present reminder of their multifaceted history. Most of the people we encountered were friendly except for the few older rude ladies who gave Verse discerning looks. (Had they never seen a Rastafarian before and more importantly did they miss the day in school when they spoke about not staring at people?) All in all it was a wonderful trip and the next time I visit I have to go over to the Turkish side of the island. I must say a huge thank you to Verse for accompanying me and making the trip extra special! Here are a few images that I took around Cy...

“Have I ever told you the Meze story?” This shall be the opening line for many years to come, as I will most definitely retell this hilarious story till I am old and gray. Driving back to Lemesos after a fun visit to Aphrodite’s beach , Verse and I stopped in the old town. We wandered about a bit, checking out stores and an art gallery. Verse at this point was very hungry and really wanted to get a very small snack before going home. This small snack was meant to hold us until we went out to dinner later. Hurriedly (and hungrily), he chose a place to eat and ordered two vegetarian Mezes from the chalkboard menu at the entrance. The owner of the restaurant looked very confused and asked in broken English, “You want two vegetarian Mezes?” Verse replied yes as we sat down in the empty restaurant. At this point I had the urge to ask the man what exactly the Meze was as I vaguely remember reading about it in my lonely planet guidebook but because of his limited Engli...

Our second day in Cyprus happened to be a very special day and the very reason for our trip. It was my 30th birthday and I woke up feeling very excited and blessed! The night before, Verse took me out to dinner to bring in the special occasion. The waiter (even after serving me the wine I ordered) guessed that I was 15. I’m sure you’re thinking the same thing I was...“What’s the legal drinking age in Cyprus if he’s happily serving a 15 year old wine?” Following the suggestion of the friendly front desk staff about where to go after dinner, we drove past the tourist strip and made a beeline for the ‘old town’ where the locals hung out. Walking into the town felt like we stepped back in time. The buildings were old and full of charm and the streets were a narrow maze. We walked about enjoying the atmosphere and after checking out a few places we settled on a very lively bar and lounge.  I love to dance and even though they were playing a very different musical selection...

Archaeological sites are dotted throughout Cyprus making the island a treasure for history enthusiasts. On the way back from the beach on our first evening, we passed the Amathounta archaeological site and decided to stop. Unfortunately the main area was closed so we couldn’t get any info on this ancient city. That didn’t stop the ever-adventurous Verse, as he encouraged me to hike up a nearby trail where we discovered a network of tracks that showcased amazing views and other intriguing ruins that were also a part of the site.  Here a few pictures from our visit.  Chilling on the stone slabs Gorgeous Wildflowers growing everywhere Spectacular Views Always up to something Be careful where you step. I wonder what this was?  Interesting details and carvings found on the stone Brilliant sunset on our first evening in Cyprus Blessed to have these adventures