Larnaca is convenient because it stands in the middle of the island, and every side of Cyprus is equally reachable from it. In a day you can get to Paphos with Kourion in the west, to Troodos and Nicosia in the centre, to Kyrenia, Famagusta and Salamis in the north. No other town gives such a fan: from the coast of Paphos the northern shore is three times further.

The town itself also supplies material. The church of Saint Lazarus was built in the ninth century over the tomb of the man who, by tradition, lived a second life here after being raised and became the first bishop of Kition. On the salt lake at the edge of town flamingos winter — from November to March they are visible from the road — and on its shore stands the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, one of the revered shrines of Islam.

Practical notes. Full-day trips run ten to twelve hours, and lunch is not always part of the programme, so check. A passport is needed for trips to the north. The salt lake dries to a white crust in summer and the flamingos leave, so there is only sense in coming for them in winter. Churches require covered clothing, and shoes come off at the entrance to the mosque.