For lovers of things ancient a trip to Cusco in Peru is definitely a must. Cusco acts as a fantastic jumping off point to explore the famous Inca ruins of Manchu Picchu which has quickly become one of the world’s most revered cultural sites. Not only a way station for Manchu Picchu Cuzco also has several wonderful sites and attractions to visit. Perhaps the single greatest tourist commodity that Cusco enjoys is the Peruvian people themselves who are selfless, kind and always provide fantastic hospitality to guests of their city. More things to do in Cuzco include.
Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
Pampa del Castillo at Plazoleta Santo Domingo
The Incas were one of the world’s largest and most well organized empires previous to the arrival of the Spanish upon their lands. No where is this better represented by Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun). An iconic monument for the Incan empire Qoricancha was decorated by more than 700 gold plated walls that allowed sun to reflect off the  temple’s many alters and statues. A massive complex, more than 4,000 priests and their attendants lived at the same time within the comfortable confines of this temple. Not surprisingly the Spanish looted all of the golden plates from the walls, but in modern times still  Qoricancha exists as an example of the intriguing Incan architecture and masonry work. The design techniques of this church became used in several of the Spaniards monuments and churches creating some of the first Andean and Spanish architecture. Qoricancha can be visited from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm daily at a cost of around $3.75 US Dollars.

Cathedral
142 Portal Espinar | Cusco, Peru
Amongst the wonderful buildings of the Plaza de Armas the Cathedral stands out as both one of its tallest and finest architectural displays. Originally constructed in 1550 the Barque design is still an awe inspiring sight. The interior is equally impressive having opulent ceilings, ornate oil paintings and alters made from gold and silver. Filled with wonderful works of art one of the most famous is a painting that depicts the earthquake that shook Cusco back in 1650. Connected to this tale, and also on display in the Cathedral, is Senor de los Temblores which is the crucifix that is said to have stopped the earthquake from destroying the whole city. Other works of art in the Cathedral exemplify both the Andean and Catholic cultural heritages of this region. The Cathedral is open from 10 am to 6 pm with admission costing around $3.75 US.

One of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean, Cyprus is a rich tapestry of ancient art and natural beauty. You can explore Roman tombs and Byzantine art, take a traditional Turkish bath, or visit the largest Ostrich Park in Europe, depending on what mood seizes you. There’s a gothic castle on a hill and a speckling of monasteries, all of which make admirable daytime adventures. But as the sun sinks below the horizon, Cyprus crackles into an indomitable neon light-storm of thumping beats. Here’s an overview of the best places to be and things to do on Cyprus, whether the sun is coming up or sinking down…

Ayia Napa

Ayia Napa is one of the world’s liveliest clubbing destinations, and a popular choice among the 18 – 30 crowd. Clubs like Black N’White, Castle Club and Starsky’s bring the noise for dancing queens, and opportunities to spot reality stars and footballers abound. Organised bar crawls and fantasy boat parties – though not for the faint-hearted – are the order of the day, and when the hangover kicks in, there’s always the massive Waterworld Waterpark to get you rehydrated. If clubbing isn’t your scene, activities range from the enlightening to the bizarre. Explore Ayia Napa’s sea caves on a boat tour, head to the abandoned ghost town of Famagusta, or laze away in the Marrakech Spa accompanied by Moroccan tea and pastry.

Paphos

It’s the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, and there’s plenty to love in the pretty coastal city of Paphos. Historians will cherish the opportunity to explore Kato Paphos Archeological Park, an ancient ruin which includes Roman villas with original mosaic floors and an ancient Odeon carved from limestone blocks, while adventurers can learn to scuba at the Dive Point Diving Centre. Once you’ve worked up a healthy appetite, visit one of the many tavernas in Paphos to sample some freshly prepared Greek cuisine, then relax with a cocktail in Notos Café Bar, and look out over the Harbour as the clubs begin to throb.

Limassol

Cyprus’s second-largest city mixes beach life, activities and a fairly sophisticated night scene. With everything from paintball and off-road driving to archery and go-karting, start with Sayious Adventure Park for an action-packed day out. Animal lovers should visit the donkey sanctuary, where you can help care for the animals, or the Limassol Zoo, where you can see baboons, wallabies and lemurs. As night falls, whether your taste is in trance, rock or jazz, there will be a club to accommodate, or if you’re looking for something a little more mellow, check out Retro, a club for the over 30s, playing the hits of yesteryear.

Of course, outside the main hubs, there are plenty of picturesque spots you can include in your holiday itinerary, from hiking the remote Karpas peninsula to enjoying traditional Cypriot tavernas in villages like Tochni and Kalavasos. Whether you’re more active in the day or at night on holiday, you’ll find something to absorb, entertain and astonish in Cyprus.

Images by lix – and David Evers used under Creative Commons