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Located just 174 miles east of Greece and 47 miles south of Turkey, the stunning Mediterranean isle of Cyprus has long been influenced by both of these ancient cultures. Greek culture has been here since antiquity and is seen strongly in the Republic of Cyprus, which covers the large southern portion of the island (the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus – which is not recognized by the UN – makes up its northernmost third). The impact of Greek culture can easily be seen in the art, the history, and the food of this charming land.

A quick motorcoach ride brings you to your destination. There is perhaps no village more beautifully representative of the culture and history of Cyprus than Omodos. Tucked into the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, Omodos is built around an ancient monastery and is at the center of the country's winemaking region. Bring your camera and some comfortable shoes for this half-day walking tour of Omodos, with plenty of time to explore its cobblestone streets on your own as well.

The Monastery of the Holy Cross was first founded thousands of years ago as a small chapel built over a small cave where a mysterious burning cross was found. The village grew around this ancient chapel, and when Saint Helen visited here in 327 A.D., she presented the monastery with a valuable Christian artifact: a section of the rope that supposedly bound Jesus to the cross. Many other religious artifacts followed, and the monastery today contains the remains of 26 saints! The monastery also houses museums displaying Byzantine icons and regional folk art.

Stroll through the shops surrounding the village's main plaza for souvenirs of your day, and stop for locally made Halloumi cheese and wine at a tavern. The friendly villagers are always happy to point you in the right direction and give you some tidbits of local lore!

When you hop aboard your motorcoach for the short, scenic ride back to port, you will enjoy the views of citrus groves and vineyards and a glimpse of the massive, medieval Kolossi Castle, which was originally built in the 13th century and was rebuilt about 200 years later. Return to the ship with fantastic photos and memories of this charming Cypriot village.