Last day

In Paphos. We started by going to "the market" in the old town, which was a disappointment - and definitely not a market as I understand them to be, but a collection of bazaar-style tourist shops. Thankfully we didn't stay too long. We then went to the Tomb of the Kings - a large, and well-preserved necropolis, and another UNESCO world heritage site. It was interesting, though fiercely hot. After a cool drink, we walked back via the catacombs. We had time for a swim and a rest before an early evening meal (we haven't eaten lunch in all our time in Cyprus - maybe due to the large breakfasts, or just the heat..), which turned out to be much better than expected. Then it was time to leave.

I really enjoyed my holidays in Cyprus and I am extremely grateful that I am in a position to do this, have the health, and the wealth to afford it, and friends to share it with. There were however a few question marks for me. This is not really the type of holiday I would choose if I were on my own, and I realise that with a group, there has to be a compromise and I accept it. Also, seeing how parched the landscape is and talking to local people who all mentioned the lack of rain and the fact that the water resources are extremely low, I really worry about the impact of tourism on a place like this. Yes, it brings money, but shouldn't this water be used for the local agriculture? We saw posh hotels with watered lawns and I was outraged, but there I was, a tourist... 

I spent quite a bit of time phoning and worrying about Lucie as well - since her hospitalisation she has not been doing too well, mentally. I absolutely don't resent it and really appreciate the fact that she wants to speak to me when she has things weighing on her mind, but it was also a feature of these holidays. 

Lastly, walking helps thinking and I have probably done too much of that for my own good...