I went on a few detachments to RAF Akrotiri.
The first time the whole island was open and we used to go to Kyrenia and Famagusta for the best beaches. Paphos and Ayia Napa were nothing more than working fishing villages. In the last week we were there the Turks invaded and that was that.
Second time there had been a lot of work done at Paphos and Ayia Napa to keep the tourists coming. Rumour had it that they even brought sand in to make the beaches something like. Paphos even got an airport!
Third time they were much as I expect them to be now - loads of hotels and pubs.
My favourite place is Limassol. Once you are out past the old port it has beaches and loads of bars, bistros and restaurants. It also has St Pantelemon winery and the world famous Keo brewery and distillery - bring a bottle, fill it up, pay at the door.
If you are visiting from Paphos take the road through Episkopi and the orange groves - you will never forget the smell.
Nicosia is OK, but nothing to get too excited about. Larnaca is a dump, and if you want the fright of your life take the bus up to Troodos. They all have a statue of the Virgin Mary on the dashboard and it is a good idea to touch her feet, bless yourself and say a prayer!