Cyprus

We arrived yesterday - rather later than planned due to strike action at Larnaca airport.  We breakfasted at Wetherspoons in Birmingham Airport and I noted that they are offering Eggs Benedict so opted to try that.  It was absolutely fabulous - as good as The Wolsely and rather better than many I have tried over the years.  Two muffin halves perfectly toasted, luscious juicy thickly sliced ham folded over each muffin half and then softly poached eggs covered with creamy Hollandaise sauce.  If I have a criticism it is that the accompanying rocket could have done with a bit of dressing - but that is the worst I can say.

We arrived at our hotel just after dark - we are staying at the St Raphael Resort Hotel in Limassol - and as the transfer coach stopped a porter came out with a trolley luggage and took our cases away.  Registration took only a few minutes and we were shown to our room and taught how to operate everything.  I am seriously impressed with both the hotel and the service levels.  The public rooms are quite spectacular with some wonderful art and our bedroom is spacious and comfortably appointed.  The little balcony we have looks out on to Limassol and the sea from the east so we should get nice sunshine this afternoon whilst enjoying a preprandial brandy sour.

Dinner last night was excellent, it is always a buffet but the theme changes daily so we should not get bored.  Last night I had some hoummus, olives and Greek salad as a starter.  Lovely roast lamb which had been rolled in mint with a sort of courgette casserole was the main and I ignored the quite delicious looking puddings for a plate of the local cheese.  I have never before had feta as an after dinner cheese - but I will have it again.  It went very well with the last of the wine.

This morning's breakfast buffet received Onslow's full approval.  The full gamut of bacon, eggs and sausages were available for him whilst I enjoyed a dish of gloriously thick yoghurt with fresh fruit salad followed by some toast with apricot conserve.

A wander around the leisure suite shows that there is an excellent gym, three pools, a spa, sauna and jacuzzi and I can even get a haircut or a pedicure.

All in all, much posher than we are used to!