We all headed to Paphos this morning (George, Carol, Wendy, Ricos, Vera and I). On the drive, our first stop was the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. They were two rocks just off a beach. Its known as Petra tou Romiou, “Stone of the Greek.” Aphro means foam/froth, so it is said she came from the froth. It was an absolutely gorgeous day, and lovely day for a visit. Lovers come to the rock to propose, proclaim their love and I assume wed. On the beach you could see where people took stones and arranged them in the shape of a heart. So romantic.

Our next stop was a pottery shop where we all bought some unique pieces. One of the clay throwers gave us a demonstration and made a goblet and another shape. His speed and technique were impressive. We got lucky and he was willing to give us a discount for paying cash, so we felt like it was a bargain.

Then onto Paphos. Its a coastal city on the southwest side of the island. Archaeologists report that the site of Paphos has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. It was a centre of the cult of Aphrodite and of pre-Hellenic fertility deities. We parked by the beach, had a quick drink at a cafe, then four of us entered the Pathos archeological site. The mosaics at this site were the best I’ve ever seen. We visited five houses. Dionysos (god of wine), dated back to 2nd century AD. Aion (4th century BC)’, Theseus (2nd century AD), Orpheus (3rd century AD), and the house of four seasons. Two of the houses were covered, but for others they were outside in the sun. We were amazed that we could walk on some of the mosaics. Not the ornate ones, but still we felt as if we were doing something wrong. We saw the amphitheater, a beautiful lighthouse, a castle and lots of flowers.

After our visit , we found Ricos and Vera and headed to the hotel to check in. We stayed at a five star hotel, the Elysium, and it is beautiful. We had lunch, then went our separate ways. Wendy and I explored the hotel grounds, the pool (lovely but too cool to swim) and realized we are right next to the Tomb of the Kings. George and Carol walked into town and found the Mastiha, while Vera took a nap. I had a massage, and boy did I need it. The massage therapist was very good. When i went to pay, I wasn’t allowed to. This was Ricos and Vera’s treat…their generosity is just amazing. when i saw them i tried to give them some money, but they wouldn’t take it. I couldn’t thank them enough. Wendy finally got to take her bath.

We all met for dinner at 8:00, in the hotel Italian restaurant. It was delicious, and the staff and atmosphere peaceful and private. What a wonderful way to end the day.

I will post photos tomorrow after we visit a winery, head to a small village, Omodos, and then dinner with Mikella and Angelo.