Larnaca offers something old alongside something new

Larnaca on the southern coast of Cyprus is the resort favoured by the locals. There is plenty to do all year round, whilst February and March are great months to catch the sun without the crowds. Visit the 6th century church built by Angels, Panayia Angeloktisti or for celeb spotting - take a peek at the villa built by Peter Andre for Katie Price.

Larnaca has been described as the Monte Carlo of the East, with a marina full of sleek yachts and long, graceful promenade that is lined with palm trees, restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. Walk to explore the old alleyways and the artisan’s workshops full of pottery and silver, or simply bargain hunt in the trendy boutiques - your money will go further. Visit the museums and archaeological sites before becoming a beach bum. If diving is your thing, don’t forget to check out the Zenobia wreck.

Alternatively drive in the beautiful country side, the district of Larnaca is home to 30 villages! Start by visiting the nearby picturesque village of Oreoklini and take up horse riding, or for something less energetic head for Lefkara and watch the black dressed, village women, making lace. Leonardo da Vinci came along to the village of Lefkara in 1481 and brought back a bit of lace for the altar in Milan’s Cathedral.

Choose to stay at the upscale leisure resort, the Palm Beach Hotel & Bungalows (palmbeachhotel.com. The hotel facilities have recently been renovated and upgraded, and include three swimming pools (one heated indoor), sports including gym, wind surfing, diving tennis and squash, plus horse riding close to the hotel. The restaurants offer exciting cuisine and the bars are a great place to sip your favourite tipple at the end of the day.

If you are looking to tie the knot this year or next, beach weddings can be arranged and include a romantic dinner for two in a gazebo by the sea. To get married here including the paperwork, licences and registrars fee, costs £499, contact wedding specialists Planet Holidays - planet-holidays.co.uk to find out more.

A 7-night stay, departing from 21 February to end of March 2009 (weekly Saturday departures from Gatwick) costs £499 per person (saving £110 per person), based on two adults sharing a room on bed and breakfast, with return flights and taxi transfers. Child price £235, saving £80 per child. For reservations visit olympicholidays.com.