Often overshadowed by the more well-known Greek islands, Cyprus offers the visitor discovery, adventure and possibility. Your trip can be slow and relaxing or fast-paced and frenetic. The soulful villages dotting the coast offer a lesson in mindfulness. Time just slows. Antiquities appear in unusual places, calling to the passer-by to stop and reflect. White beaches and azure blue waters beckon to relax and unwind. Then, for those who are searching for excitement, Cyprus delivers.

On The Road From Larnaca To Limassol

To find your version of the perfect vacation in Cyprus on your own terms, consider renting a car. If you are comfortable driving on the left, set out on four wheels to explore the island. Cyprus is considered one of the safest places to visit and, for the most part, the drivers obey the rules of the road.

Heading southwest from Larnaca, the city housing the main airport on the island, towards Limassol, the Stavrovouni Monastery is only a twenty-minute detour off of the road. Although females are prohibited from entering, it is still worth a trip. Stavrovouni, meaning ‘Mountain of the Cross’ is 668 meters above sea level and is said to be home to a piece of the Holy Cross. Suspended on the edge of a rocky cliff and blending into its surroundings, it offers breathtaking views of Larnaca and the surrounding area. For males who are allowed to enter, the inside of Stavrovouni is decorated in a rich array of artwork.

Take a short detour up winding roads and you will come across the village of Lefkara. Locals will tell you that their lace is famous because Leonardo da Vinci purchased lace in this village in the late 1400s to use in the Duomo di Milano. Sure enough, the village is populated by lace shops and local women can be found basking in the sun while crafting new lace items. It is a glimpse into a past way of life.

Limassol

The Stavrovouni Monastery is a Greek Orthodox monastery which stands on the top of the mountain, called Stavrovouni, image eFesenko

Getting lost exploring the narrow cobblestone streets of Old Town Limassol, where generational shopkeepers conduct business much the way their grandparents did, was an enchanting experience. Arrive early to watch black-clad older women shop at the local market and greet their neighbours, while the older men gather for coffee and gossip. The area is bustling with cafes, restaurants, and shops. It is a popular place for locals and visitors alike. Limassol has recently made significant renovations to the area by adding a much-enjoyed walking area along the beach, a new fish market, and a shopping mall. Upscale boutique shopping is also available such as First Boutique (IakovouTompazi 1, Limassol) and CONELLE Boutique (Arch. Makarios III Avenue 184, Limassol).

If you are exhausted from all the walking and shopping, sit at an outdoor café with the locals and try some traditional Cypriot coffee. Like other Mediterranean countries, Cypriot coffee is brewed in a small copper pot that has a long handle. It’s basically a mixture of coffee, water and sugar (if desired). Angel’s Cup (Kanari 20, Limassol) makes an exceptional cup of coffee and offers delicious bakery items as well.

Limassol is the gastronomic capital of Cyprus, and there is a wide variety of top-quality restaurants that offer mouth-watering cuisine. Meze Taverna (209 AgiouAndreou St), a family-run, sit-down restaurant serves traditional Greek meze; Pier One Café Restobar in the marina with stunning views and an ambience that evokes the feeling of a super yacht; Kipriakon also in the marina provides traditional Cypriot cuisine with a modern twist all while dining among boho-inspired décor.

Historical architecture such as the Limassol Castle and various monuments can be found scattered throughout Old Town Limassol, making it one of the island’s richest areas for exploration. It is rumoured that casinos will soon be available for those inclined toward gambling, so go now before the charm of the city is lost.

There are many choices of accommodations in Limassol, but Sir Paul Hotel (5, IfigeneiasStr, Limassol 3036; +357 25 755454), an upscale boutique hotel located in the heart of the historic town, offers the visitor a charming stay. The stone building dates back to the 18th century and was used as a Town Hall. From its olive tree centrepiece to its stone arches and marble staircase, the ambience of Sir Paul Hotel did not disappoint. Even the history of the hotel is astonishing – the building was part of the owner, Natali Martini’s inheritance, and she named it as a tribute to her great-grandfather, Sir Paul Pavlides, who was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1955.

Nightlife abounds on the opposite end of Limassol. Guaba Beach Bar (Amathountos 7) is one of the most popular nightspots. Well-known DJs frequent this outdoor, ocean-view club making for a lively dance-filled night.

Paphos

The Tombs of the Kings is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Paphos

DJ appearances at day_night parties at Guaba Beach Bar in Limassol

Lefkaritika or Lefkara is known for its lace. Pictured, traditional embroidery at Pano Lefkara, Larnaca District, image by kirill_makarov

Traditional handmade lace umbrellas in local souvenir shop in Lefkara, image by InnaFelker

Meandering slowly from Limassol westerly to Paphos affords some of the most breathtaking views on the island. Located just outside the city, on a cliff, you will find a remarkable archaeological site known as the Ancient Kourion. An earthquake in 365 AD devastated the complex. What remains is an open-air Greco-Roman amphitheatre, the intricate mosaic floors of an extensive villa, bathhouses and a stadium. The Kourion is still in use, with performers showcasing their talent during the warm weather season. Imagine watching an ancient Greek play performed under the stars with the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea with a bottle of wine in hand. It promises to be an evening you will not soon forget.

Continuing on the drive, you will come upon Aphrodite’s Rock– the mythical birthplace of the Greek goddess of love and beauty. The stunning rock formation can be found along the shore just off of the road from Limassol to Paphos. Cliff jumping, as well as swimming, is prohibited as the sea is usually rough in the area. However, I was able to enjoy a breathtaking view from the top.

Further along the drive is the Tombs of the Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the burial place used for local nobility from the 4th century onwards. You can get lost wandering the maze of caves and sandstone chambers.

If lunch is needed on the drive, Muse Café Kitchen Bar (Mousallas, Paphos), located at the top of a hill, provides a large outdoor seating area with views of the city and harbour. Additionally, Oniro by the Sea (GlykouNerou St, Paphos) is a restaurant located in the middle of basically nowhere, and the only sound you hear is the soothing sound of the waves crashing below. Suite 48 Grill & Lounge Bar (Poseidonos Ave 48, Paphos) has generous outdoor space with day beds, an outdoor bar, a playground for kids and views of the sea. They play live music here during the summertime.

Continuing along the route, you will pass the town of Paphos. If diving is on your agenda, the crystal-blue waters of the Sea Caves of Peyia is a popular scuba diving spot. The spectacular natural caves can only be entered by sea, via swimming or boat. Not far from the caves is Edro III, a cargo shipwreck that only dates back to 2011. It’s an excellent place for a photo opp.

At the end of a long day of driving and walking, Louis Ivi Mare (CY 8210, Poseidonos Ave 12, Paphos), a luxury seafront hotel offers a welcome refuge with two pools and a pool bar.

Troodos Mountains

Crystal-blue waters at the Sea Caves on the Coral Bay coastline, by Roman Evgenev

Ancient Venetian Bridge in Troodos Mountains, image by Chursina Viktoriia

A decorated street of restaurants in Old Town Limassol

Cyprus

If you are interested in breathing in cool and clean mountain air, wandering through the Troodos Mountains is the perfect option. Driving from Paphos to the capital city of Nicosia, there are several stunning scenic spots, quaint churches and monasteries to explore. There are ten UNESCO-listed monasteries scattered throughout this region. In the mountains, you will find skiing, nature trails, walking paths and cycling lanes. For those seeking libations and culinary delights, there are various winery routes and traditional tavernas which give you the chance to mingle with the locals and to taste the region’s speciality dishes. A favourite stop is Cyprus Taste Tours (www.cyprustastetours.com), which offers a highly-rated afternoon of wine exploration.

Nicosia

Swimmers taking a dip at Agioi Anargyroi Dive Site in Ayia Napa

Nissi Beach, the most popular beach in Ayia Napa, image by Vladimir Sazonov

Pirate ship and fishing boats in harbor of Ayia Napa, image by Vladimir Sazonov

Nicosia is the world’s last divided capital. A UN buffer zone, the Green Line, divides the North and South of the island in two: the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the Republic of Cyprus. Talking with older Greek Cypriots reveal that the division also divided their hearts when they lost the upper part of their island. This is a topic to tread carefully with the locals.

On the Greek side of this divide, sixteenth-century walls surround the heartbeat of Nicosia, the old city. Alive with vibrant street life, centuries-old restaurants, cafes sprawled into the sidewalks, mosques, churches and colonial buildings. Within these walls is also the island’s largest museum, the Cyprus Museum, which houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of Cypriot antiquities.

Join the locals for lunch and savour the fresh fish at Pyxida Fish Tavern (5 Menandrou, 1066 Nicosia), a restored 1930s house. Additionally, Fanous (7C Solonos Street, Nicosia) is a delicious eatery option in Nicosia. The contemporary Arab restaurant is decorated with pillows and throws and hosts belly dancing performances.

For the travellers who love to shop, Stasikratous Street, as well as on Makarios Avenue, will provide you hours of upscale boutique shopping. For women’s clothing, try Bojo Boutique (Promitheos 2, Nicosia).

If the walking and shopping have exhausted you, why not try an unusual treat, a spa package at Hammam Omerye, located in a restored 14th-century Turkish bathhouse.

To pamper yourself even more, sleep at the charming 3 Rooms Boutique Hotel, located in the heart of Nicosia’s Old Town.

Ayia Napa

Louis Ivi Mare

Pepper Bar

Located on the southeast coast of Cyprus, Ayia Napa has a reputation for being the hippest place on the island. Known for its water sports and nightlife, hedonist-seeking crowds have come to this city from all over Europe. The city has responded with party-till-dawn nightclubs, long stretches of cultivated beaches and energizing beach activities.

However, there is another side to Ayia Napa, which includes the natural beauty found at Cape Greco National Forest Park. This national park has numerous trails and cycling paths, sitting areas, cliffs and sea views. The blue waters at AgioiAnargyroi Dive Site (non-divers are welcome as well) is a secret spot where the locals go to escape the crowds.

Most visitors to this region are in search of beaches and nightlife. You won’t find a town full of archaeological sites; however, the Venetian-era Ayia Napa Monastery is the anchor of the main square and worth a visit.

If Instagram photos are your thing, visit The Bridge of Loved Ones at sunset. Legend has it that if you kiss your loved one on this beautiful natural bridge and make a wish while standing in the middle of the arch, it is guaranteed to come true. It has become a tradition for newlyweds and couples to come here. Wedding ceremonies have even been held on this bridge!

While there is an endless option of places to visit, Nissi Beach provides perfect spots for people watching. The beach stretches 500 meters and hosts a number of water activities and beach parties.

If you need something to eat, the Cypriot cuisine at En-YevoTavernaki (DionysiouSolomou 16 Famagusta, Ayia Napa 5330); the pizza at Quadro Italian Restaurant (OdosKryouNerou, 7, Ayia Napa 5330); and the unique dishes at Fiji Polynesian Cuisine (Makarios Avenue 23, Ayia Napa 5340) won’t disappoint.

The Liquid Café N Bar (KryouNerou 8, Ayia Napa), Pepper Bar Lounge (Makariou 12, Ayia Napa 5343) and Jello(ArchiepieskopouMakariou III, Ayia Napa) are quite popular and offer a lively action-packed nightlife adventure!

To end your road trip around Cyprus, try Cape Serenity Resort ( E307, Protaras), an adults-only luxury hotel located within Cavo Greco natural park.

New Zealand is among a handful of countries that have so far managed to keep its rates of COVID-19 infections and deaths relatively low. To date, the country has only recorded 1,154 confirmed cases and 21 deaths. However, their success in managing the pandemic has come at a cost for the country’s economy, which relies heavily on overseas tourism.

With its borders currently closed to everyone but citizens, and international flights grounded for the foreseeable future, it’s clear that Aotearoa (the Māori name for New Zealand) won’t be opening up to international visitors anytime soon. However, the idea of “travel bubbles” is something the New Zealand government is actively looking into. These proposed bubbles would include trans-Tasman activity, along with selected markets, such as Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan, who have so far been as successful as New Zealand in dealing with the virus.

According to Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive, Stephen England-Hall, “New Zealand, like Singapore, has made great progress in combating COVID-19. Creating travel bubbles with other nations will support tourism recovery, but only if it can be done safely for both nations. Our government is currently investigating options for what safe travel zones might be possible and how this travel may be undertaken safely.”

Moeraki, Otago, image by Miles Holden, Tourism New Zealand

But until that time, a major focus for Tourism New Zealand will be on promoting domestic travel.Before COVID-19, domestic tourism accounted for 60% of tourism’s $40.9 billion contribution to the New Zealand economy. “We know that domestic tourism alone will not fill the void of international visitors, but with our borders closed for the time being our activity alongside that of the regional tourism organisations and our partners like Air New Zealand we will give it a good shot,” explained England-Hall.

Only a few days ago, the country launched a new campaign to inspire New Zealanders to get out and do something new, like a New Zealand road trip. “Now is the perfect time for Kiwis to make their ‘NZ must do’ bucket list items a reality. We’ve all got things we’ve always wanted to see and do. This campaign shares those moments and gets people thinking, why wait?” said England-Hall.

However, England-Hall was quick to point out that Tourism New Zealand is also still working hard to ensure the country remains top of mind for when it’s safe to welcome back international visitors. “We are continuing to promote New Zealand to international visitors and are working hard on our international restart plans. Even though people can’t travel to New Zealand at the moment, it’s important to encourage them to dream and to even start planning their New Zealand holidays.”

Until such time as travel bubbles are realised, there are plenty of ways for Singaporeans to get a taste of New Zealand without having to leave the city-state. “New Zealand is known for its ingenuity, and the world-famous Kiwi company, AJ Hackett, are offering avatar bungy jumps live through a camera attached to the jumper. While you can’t beat experiencing New Zealand in person, or the thrill of doing a bungy jump yourself, these types of virtual experiences will form a part of how people experience New Zealand in the future,” said England-Hall.

Mackenzie Basin, Canterbury, image by Miles Holden, Tourism New Zealand

For those craving a classic New Zealand adrenaline rush, the AJ Hackett Tower on SilosoBeach, Sentosa is Singapore’s first and only bungy tower and stands 50m above the ground. Thrill-seekers can choose to drop, swoop, and scream on the Giant Swing or challenge themselves on the Bungy Jump. The site also features a Skybridge, a 40m walkway with see-through sections, and a Sunset Deck, which is a great lookout point over the beach.

There’s also a host of cafes and restaurants in Singapore offering a taste of New Zealand. For instance, Baker & Cook, which is helmed by Kiwi Dean Brettschneider, is revered for its meat pies and flat white coffees, both of which are synonyms with the country. There’s also Wakanui Grill, a New Zealand steak and lamb restaurant located in the West Tower of Marina One, and Moa Tiki New Zealand Bar & Grill, which is dedicated to bringing the best of New Zealand wines and beer to Singapore. From fine Pinot Noirs to premium speciality craft beers, they’ve got everything covered.

Te Puia, Rotorua, image by Fraser Clements, Tourism New Zealand

While the future of tourism around the world remains uncertain, one thing we do know is that New Zealand and Singapore enjoy a close and longstanding relationship. The fresh air, open space, and natural beauty of Aotearoa are major attractions for urban-dwelling Singaporeans, with holiday arrivals reaching 42,382 in the year ending November 2019. Outside of Australia, if there is any country in the world with whom New Zealand should look at reconnecting with first, Singapore will no doubt be high on the list.

The once quiet beach strip of Johor gazing at the South China Sea is the Lion City’s classic favourite getaway

For Singaporeans, a quick road trip into Malaysia’s southern state – Johor, is the islanders’ definition of a weekend getaway. There are a million things that connect Singapore and Malaysia, from their intertwined history to their physical proximity. Culture, cuisine and family are commonalities across the peninsula. Sharing a coastal border with two bridges connecting the two countries, a drive into the ‘green’ Johor promises adventure, relaxation and quick access to natural beauty.

Back in the late ‘70s, Desaru – a 15+ kilometre strip of beach on Johor’s east coast, then about two to three hours’ drive from Johor Bahru, was a sleepy outpost blessed with strong waves and an excellent beach. Facilities were below par, but thanks to word-of-mouth, people from Johor and Singapore started to visit this strip for the weekend, enjoying a swim in the warm waters and barbequing under the shade of trees. Picnics, music, the sizzle of the satay and the waves kept the parties going. Soon a couple of basic resorts and upmarket golf courses opened up and the fate of Desaru was sealed. It was going to be Johor’s top destination. During the ‘80s, quite a few of my lazy beach days have been witnessed by the golden sands of Desaru. As the decade sped forward, Desaru however stood on the sidelines, stagnant in development and maintenance, considered old and boring.

Anantara Desaru Coast Pool Villa Bedroom

Of late, this beautiful coastline has found a new lease on life, with renewed interest from international brands and travellers. Its most significant vote of confidence comes from hospitality giants such as The One&Only Desaru Coast (opening in Mar 2020), Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas and Hard Rock Hotel opening here. This simply translates to a much better experiences for us. Between Anantara, Hard Rock and One&Only, we now have more than 15 new dining experiences! The Senai-Desaru Expressway cuts journey time to over an hour from Johor immigration area. The weekend road trip to Desaru just got more interesting.

Apart from the sexy coastline, a water theme park and many premium golf courses keep the weekend traveller engaged. The Adventure Waterpark challenges kids (and kids at heart) with its massive water-filled rides, including a wave lagoon, a surfing simulator, and a jaw-dropping roller coaster that swirls in a full 360 loop before the drop into the pool. For the 70’s kids, hammocks are strung by the beach, creating quiet havens for the daydreamers. At Els Club Desaru Coast, serious golfers are found in their casual corporates improving their swing.

The brand new Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, opened in late 2019, currently sets the beat for luxury when at Desaru. With just over 100 premium rooms, deluxe sea view rooms, villas and residences, two pools including a beach infinity pool, speciality dining and quick access to the beach – one would be forgiven if they wished to extend their weekend for a few more days. I would have a preference for the one and two-bedroom lagoon pool villas simply because of the private plunge pool and gazebo. When done at the beach, the private pool and deck are my private retreat to continue enjoying the breeze. The Infinity bar with its tapas, shisha and smooth beats complemented with waves rolling in is the way every afternoon ought to be celebrated. The evenings are dedicated to the Observatory Bar with 360 degrees views of the sea. Pampering oneself in luxury in Anantara Desaru is a far better option than a staycation in Singapore.

With spring at its peak, had this been any other year, we would all be planning for our summer breaks. Many amongst us put the June – July months to good use enjoying outdoor activities, the glorious sun and the promise of lazy days ahead. A road trip best captures the freedom of summer. The hypnotic charm of the open country road, leading into new sights at every turn accompanied by our favourite tunes – the road trip has its appeal amongst all age brackets.

This however is not like any other year. This is the year of ‘the pandemic’ that has trapped the whole world in its grip. During this pandemic as everyone avoids flights, domestic and international, road trips are looking like a much safer option than international travel and a much richer alternative to staycations. Let’s add another dimension to our summer plan conundrum – hotels, hospitality zones and restaurants across the globe are probably going to be closed this June. This sadly brings our glorious road trip to a grinding stop – even before we start planning. What now?

Let’s roll the dice and head to autumn and winter. The temperatures do dip an inch as compared to summer and most coastal areas still retain their warmth and accessibility as we head towards winding up this year. Our friends down under are doing spring and summer during Aug-Dec and their continent of a country is all abound road trips.

Here are six ideas for an exceptional road trip this year.

1. An Icelandic Road Trip

The beauty of the glacier-swept region has topped bucket lists for decades, spurring a love for a winter-kissed Nordic escape blessed with icy volcanoes and boiling geysers. As the night sky parts with a curtain of lights, explore the dazzling city of Reykjavik and discover what more Iceland has to offer. www.wtravelmagazine.com/an-icelandic-road-trip/

Iceland is an ideal driving holiday

2. An Andalucían road trip

With its quaint white-washed villages, traditional taverns, and a swish of flamenco – there’s something more in the air in Andalucía than the scent of citrus. Something we had to explore. Beginning our tour in Malaga, a municipality that has emerged as a must-see destination, we were greeted by a historical and culturally rich city long overshadowed by the more popular Costa del Sol hotspots. www.wtravelmagazine.com/an-andalucian-road-trip/

Playa del Cañuelo, Bolonia

3. Road trip Brisbane to Byron Bay

Set off on a memorable ride down Australia’s east coast and experience the best of Brisbane, Gold Coast and Byron Bay. An enviable trip filled with French picnics, cooking classes, hatted restaurants, poolside cocktails and private beaches all teamed up with exclusive accommodation. www.wtravelmagazine.com/road-trip-brisbane-to-byron-bay/

Road trip Brisbane to Byron Bay

4. Nine ways to see Switzerland

The Grand Tour of Switzerland; an astounding road trip through the Alps. Sky-bursting alpine peaks, memorable road trips, and sports to take you out of your comfort zone, plus fantastic food and drink: Switzerland is really bursting with life. www.wtravelmagazine.com/9-ways-to-see-switzerland/

The sphinx on the Jungfraujoch (3571m). Inside is the highest railway station in Europe, hence the nickname ‘Top of Europe’, Switzerland Tourism – Ivo Scholz

5. Umbria, Italy’s gourmet treasure trove

Leave Rome its Colosseum and Paris its Eiffel Tower; let Tuscany have its Chianti wines and hordes of visitors. Where I’m going is Italy’s reclusive child, Umbria – Europe’s bona fide slow-food HQ. After collecting my Maserati from Modena, I take a leisurely road-trip through Umbria’s undulating landscape of quilted fields and steepled villages. Umbria is also one of Italy’s most fertile corners, a region of old-fashioned food traditions, where refined ingredients boom. www.wtravelmagazine.com/umbria-italys-gourmet-treasure-trove/

Breakfast view from the conservatory at Castello di Monticelli, near Perugia

Mt Carmel Highway Zion National Park

6. On the road through the American Southwest

From the towering peaks of Zion National Park to the dusty caverns of Antelope Canyon, find out what makes the wild west truly untamed. Fiery red-stone cliffs, dramatic valleys, canyon lands that stretch as far as the eye can see: driving the American Southwest is an adventure straight off the Hollywood movie screen. The region’s distinct topography has long been the backdrop for famed movies like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Beyond the glitz and glam, wide open roads through southern Utah and northern Arizona lead to some of the country’s most iconic sites like Zion National Park, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon. www.wtravelmagazine.com/on-the-road-through-the-american-southwest/

The beauty of the glacier-swept region has topped bucket lists for decades, spurring a love for a winter-kissed Nordic escape blessed with icy volcanoes and boiling geysers. As the night sky parts with a curtain of lights, explore the dazzling city of Reykjavik and discover what more Iceland has to offer.

From the towering peaks of Zion National Park to the dusty caverns of Antelope Canyon, find out what makes the wild west truly untamed.

Fiery red-stone cliffs, dramatic valleys, canyon lands that stretch as far as the eye can see: driving the American Southwest is an adventure straight off the Hollywood movie screen. The region’s distinct topography has long been the backdrop for famed movies like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Beyond the glitz and glam, wide open roads through southern Utah and northern Arizona lead to some of the country’s most iconic sites like Zion National Park, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon. Fall is the most auspicious season to visit the region as crowds dissipate and the blistering summer heat gives way to cooler autumnal conditions. So lace up your hiking boots, hop behind the wheel, and get ready to navigate the Wild West.

The courageous venture into India’s Ladakh rewards any seeker of otherworldly vistas.

If it was a book, India’s main pages allure with the colourful myths of Rajasthan, the sprawling castles of its royal dynasties, and the vibrant cityscapes that adorn the country’s various cities. The lesser-known and far more spectacular spectacles are tucked inside its covers, usually left alone to tease those who go past the first leaves, each of them gurgling with their own stories and wonders.

They are sanctuaries waiting in silence, calling the seekers who wish to traverse earth’s otherworldly dimensions. Among them is Ladakh, a mountainous topography stretching across the northern tip of India, unabashedly kissing the Himalayas. Stories that date back centuries are whispered within monastery walls; these monuments that lay amongst the folds of the mountainous façade, hiding from the world in the midst of age-old rocks and unveiling itself only to the most relentless of adventurers.

The snow-pierced desert mountains seem rigid and forbidding from a distance, with its valleys running in dry black and brown, showing no sign of lush life—that is, until the sun hits its winter-capped apex that creates a gradient of icy blue dangling from its pate, and then slowly transforming into vivid hues of arid sand by its knees. One may call it supernatural: the blend of ice and heat through its geographical skin, a harmony of two elements that make picture-perfect backdrops painted by the creator himself. In its metaphorical state, it is also a region of ironies, a necklace of highs and lows, from the high plains to the deep valleys that comfortably rests in their own spectrum while breathing the same blanket of cold and dry air.