Icons of Mykonos



You know it's been a busy itinerary when I haven't even been able to caption my pictures from such a lovely port!  Such a shame!  But better late than never and hopefully you'll still enjoy.

This second time back to Mykonos on this trip, I made sure to go ashore early in the morning to get the morning light for photography... and avoid some of the crowds at the scenic points.  So was able to enjoy the streets with the local residents, watching Mykonos slowly awaken on a beautiful Sunday morning.  I could feel the streets come alive, basking in the bright sunlight, and glisten with joyful energy. 

Mykonos port has two real icons: the windmills and of course Petros the Pelican.  Since one never knows when, where (or if) Petros will appear, I set out for the windmills on this glorious morning:

 

Situated on a low hill, this series of classic windmills  no longer operate, but still guard over the port and town.  One cannot think of Mykonos without these lovely symbols. 

 

 

Captain Johannes made sure we were the first in port this morning, so we had the premiere location closest to the harbor, making for a very easy tender... and gorgeous pictures.



 

 

 

 

If you are a ship lover as I am, there is nothing like seeing "your" ship in such a setting.  It just helps you to feel connected and part of where ever you happen to be.  And when the day is this lovely, one has also to be forgiven for taking a plethora of such pictures!

 

 
So many times when photographing locations such as this, it's tempting to do so in full mid-day light, for the brightest exposure.  However, especially with such bright whites and contrasting colors, consider doing so in morning and evening instead.  It keeps the full depth and range of colors, helping your photographic memories come to life in their best manner.

 

Moving down the hill just a bit, went into the town to enjoy a bit of shopping, but couldn't resist a few more photos along the way:

 

Unfortunately, I wasn't fortunate enough to locate Petros on either of the two days I spent in port, but due to the generosity of a fellow passenger, I can bring him to you nonetheless:

 

You can really see that he knows he's "all that" as he struts down the street.  This picture just seems to say "what do you want?  This is MY town.  And I'm going THAT way!"

 

Sometimes, however, he spies something he needs to do...

 

Guess he's not so different than most cruisers... a morning in port just isn't complete without a visit to a local eatery offering free wifi!  Guess he's checking his Facebook fan page!

 

My shopping complete, I enjoyed the rest of the day in my favorite café, wearing my new "chapeau," as captured by Eric, our cruise director.

 

 

 

There is so much more of Mykonos to explore: the beaches, the villas, and the mystical archaeological site of Delos, but sometimes you just want to enjoy the spirit, the sights, and the playful energy of the Greek Islands that is perfectly epitomized in Mykonos and its residents.  Next time!

 

By the way, if you have been reading this blog throughout my preparations for this trip, and saw me talk about my new camera, I wanted to note that all the pictures (with the exception of Petros) have been taken with the new Sony compact.  I really do love this little camera.  With such a lovely day, I considered breaking out my DLSR, and other than the advantage of a bit wider lens which would have been nice, I was perfectly happy with the flexibility of the Sony.  So you know, the colors have not been enhanced.  The only editing I did on any of these photos was a bit of cropping to straighten the horizon.  No polarizing lenses, no color adjustments. 

 

Yes, it really is that beautiful there!

 

Talking Turkey!

It’s impossible to emphasize enough that many times, cruise schedules change.  Sometimes it’s weather, or a passenger’s medical needs, or mechanical or even political environment or safety in port.  The cruise lines reserve the right to change the itinerary as needed to protect their passengers, crew and ship, but not all changes are equally positive.  What is always necessary is to be flexible and go with the flow.  Trust me, the lines would rather get into a planned port than deal with grumpy passengers.  Even if a sea day is substituted, and there is increased onboard revenue as a result, they really do want to get you to that port.  Sometimes it’s just not possible.

Weather intruded on this sailing for me, preventing us from getting into Santorini.  A highlight port for most passengers, it’s also a tender port with almost no dock facilities or permanent, sheltered moorings.  As a consequence, when adverse winds cause the harbor master to limit the ships to one (the largest, of course) in dock and one (the smallest with shallowest draft) to the mooring, then the others (in this case 6 ships) have to find alternatives. 

Some lines opted to stay at sea.  Reasonable in the situation, and not unexpected.  But not Azamara Club Cruises!  With her small size and focus on the itinerary at all times, Captain Johannes opted instead to take us to Bodrum, Turkey. 

The Azamara Captains are empowered to make decisions like this on their own, without needing permission from Miami.  Of course, they advise on major changes, as coordination has to happen to arrange shuttle services, excursions and the like, along with ensuring proper navigation is undertaken for safety, but the decision is the Captain’s.  And Captain Johannes made a great decision about Bodrum.

Before arrival, I didn’t know much about this port.  It’s just beginning to appear on more specialty itineraries, such as the luxury lines as well as those based more in Europe, such as MSC and Costa.  But it is definitely growing in popularity and I hope becomes a staple for more lines, especially Azamara. 

Turkey is really still emerging as a destination of choice for cruisers.  While most understand the appeal of Istanbul, especially if they've already visited, or have heard about Ephesus, other Turkish ports are still virtually unknown and unexplored for most cruisers.  It's a perfect opportunity for a line such as Azamara to shine in their Quest and Journey (sorry, couldn't resist) to be focused on itineraries, with longer stays, more overnights and night touring. 

Anchoring in another part of the bay, it is clear this is a very appealing port.  The fort high on the hill is the first center of attention, of course, but the many sailing boats in the bay also attract attention, as do the attractive homes.  It is obvious this is a fairly prosperous port.

 

Transportation to the center of town was accomplished via small ferries from the ship.  An easy transfer, it was lovely to see the fort and bay from the water as you approach.

 

Entering the harbor, my breath was taken away by the multitudes of truly beautiful, handcrafted sailing yachts.  Hundreds of them lined up in harbor, awaiting their next charter.  Many are available for rent, including all necessary crew and provisions, for as little as $100/person per day for a 10-passenger vessel.  What a bargain and great way to see the area!  Many cruisers I know absolutely love the water, and would adore a few days pre- or post-cruise on a vessel like this exploring the small ports in the area.  I know I would!

Because we literally were informed of the change less than 24 hours prior to arrival, and I had no time to research other options, I opted for one of the two ship’s excursions, a 2-hour tour to the Castle of the Knights of St. Peter (aka Bodrum Castle), dating from the 15^th Century.  I’m glad I did!

Another example of the Crusader influence in the region, attempting to protect pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem but also commerce and projecting religious/political influence, this castle in wonderful condition is also home to a Museum of Underwater Archaeology and other cultural exhibits. 

Climbing into the Fort, one is given an imposing view of the town and surrounding waters.  Quite the strategic  location!  During the tour, one is brought through many of the areas, with terrific scenic overlooks, and you can even walk the ramparts on your own time.

Enclosed within the walls is an exhibit of ancient amphorae,  along with some lovely wood sculptures in front of this striking church/mosque (notice the dual styles, a result of changing religious influences at various times in the history of this region). 

 

 

As an avid diver, interested in all things underwater and knowing a bit about the underwater archaeology going in this region, I was especially interested in the Underwater Archaeology Museum.  The name may be a bit overreaching, as there is but one true exhibit, the Glass Ship, which was discovered in nearby waters, excavated and preserved, along with the glass amphorae and other containers aboard, but it was still a stunning exhibit. 

 

 

If you have visited the Vasa Museum in Stockholm, this will have a familiar, albeit much more ancient feeling to you.  Similar preservation and reconstruction methods were used, and it is awesome to be able to get so close to such an ancient vessel remarkably preserved.  To the right are examples of fragile glass containers which were part of the cargo of the trade vessel. They are so fragile and susceptible to light degradation the room in which they're contained is almost dark, as is the ship's room as well.  Simply amazing!

 
 Then it was on to the town.  What a lively, upscale area!  If you’re looking for high-quality leather goods, particularly purses or shoes, this is your town.  Bright shops, clean and open, invited visitors inside.  It is Turkey, so brush up your bargaining skills, but I did see a lot of happy passengers with bulging bags of purchases as they returned “home” to the Journey. 

I browsed for a bit, but being in more an exploratory mode today, decided to “explore” the local cuisine instead.  Found an appealing café, ordered all local and fresh, and had a wonderful afternoon with local beer, fresh grilled calamari, and a decadent chocolate soufflé (more like a lava cake in its presentation) that the Brits at the adjacent table attempted to steal from me it looked, smelled (and subsequently tasted) so good! 

A ferry ride back to the ship, and have to say although not planned, it was a day way above average, especially as it was unexpected.  Azamara did an exceptional job of putting things together on the fly for us, arranging excursions, logistics, etc., and it was as seamless as if it had been planned all along.

In fact, if I were planning itineraries for Azamara, if it is logistically practical, I believe I would substitute Bodrum for Paphos, for example.  I know Cypress does make geographic sense going to or from Israel, but Bodrum is just a much nicer experience I feel.  More to offer, much different, and more appealing.  Are you listening, Azamara?  (Hint, hint!)

I was definitely disappointed not to have returned to Santorini, as I’d brought my DSLR and professional-level lenses and filters to do some serious photographic work ashore, but I’ll make it back another day.  The disappointment was certainly exceeded by experiencing a totally new port for me in Bodrum.  Well done, Azamara!

Next up, it’s pictures from Mykonos!  More images, less words – a perfect way to end a Wednesday, don’t you think?

And Now Back to Live From Azamara Journey!

So sorry all that the Live From posts have been slow in coming.  Between preparing for sister brand Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas opening for sales yesterday, and a very busy itinerary, it’s been difficult to keep up.  But let me cover several ports very quickly, with lots of pictures, then we can be all caught up!

Going to back track a bit to before the first visit to Mykonos.  I still owe you some pictures from Paphos, Cypress.  Wrote to you about the lovely internet café there, but didn’t talk much about the cute little port town.

There’s a lot of typical, regional history in Paphos (Fortresses, churches, etc.), but this is mostly a resort town.  The harbor area is guarded over by this little pillbox fortress, and the crescent-moon harbor is rimmed by cafes offering absolutely fresh seafood and other regional specialties.  Darling town, great for strolling, and exploring further inland if time permits (and one is not desperately trying to upload videos of the first AzaMazing evening!).  Would happily return, though it’s not a “highlight” type of port which one books a particular cruise solely to see.

However, the next two ports we visited do qualify as ones which belong on your “to do” cruise list. 

First up was Rhodes.  This amazing island is dominated by the Knights of St. John’s fortress on water’s edge in Rhodes Town.  One can very happily spend the entire day wandering these streets filled with shops, cafes, courtyard gardens and historical buildings and museums.  Likely you’d leave feeling you hadn’t seen it all, even in a full day.  This walled town, ringed by cool, shaded gardens with plenty of trees and grass, really envelopes you into a feeling of the time.  The many entrance gates give you a different experience, whether entering via one of the sea gates or over the inland moat, but all provide a sense of significance, and you realize this city was not one to be taken lightly when in its heyday. 

Upon entering, the stone streets (be sure to wear thick soled shoes – ladies, this is not the day for thin sandals), you walk along the ancient homes, business and more “official” buildings, with Byzantine churches, mosques, and even a Temple of Aphrodite inside the walls. many still operating similarly to how they did in antiquity, such as the gold smiths.  You might stumble upon a boutique hotel in the inner city, or find a café tucked into a traditional inner courtyard which once was ringed by private homes.  But where ever you go, the enormity and solidity of this town cannot be denied.

But Rhodes is far more than just Rhodes Town.  There are some lovely temples just outside, such as the Temple of Apollo and Athena.  Well, okay, the temples are truly ruins, but the views are absolutely fantastic! 

You’re probably wondering why I’m not referring to the Colossus of Rhodes, as that’s what most people associate with the Island.  However, unless you are a history buff, you may not realize that, while it was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, it has been lost in history.  Formerly standing imposingly over the harbor as a warning, it is presumed destroyed… or perhaps put into the foundations of the Palace of the Knights of St. John. 

Speaking of the Knights, these are the “authorized” successors to the discredited Templars when the Templars were disbanded by the Pope.  The Knights of St. John were given some of the Templar wealth, and used it in part to fortify Rhodes.  As a medical military order (as conflicting as that sounds), the Hospital of the Knights is one of the most imposing buildings.

 

Rhodes as an island has much more to offer than just Rhodes Town if you wish to wander.  Fishing, hiking, biking, 4-weel drive excursions are popular, as is a trip to Lindos about 40 miles from the port.  This adorable hill town boasts a hilltop Acropolis (be prepared for a relatively short, but very steep climb), along with narrow, winding streets climbing up and down this hill (notice repeated emphasis on hill – yes, you have to go up in addition to down here, so be ready) town. 

 

Wanting something different on this island which maintains and exudes not just friendliness but an almost mystical appeal?  Local tour operators, such as Georgiadis Tours, are actively creating new and different options, from just a couple hours to full day options, aimed at both the cruise passenger and those who are taking a land-based holiday on the island.

I was fortunate enough to spend the day with George Georgiadis touring the island and getting to know the lovely vendors and understanding the appeal.  One of the highlights of the day, other than his infectiously happy personality, was a visit to a local, traditional ceramics store, Bonis Ceramics.  Before you roll your eyes, know this isn’t the norm.  This is a shop where your first stop is down in the basement where, with the assistance of two experienced potters, you get to throw your own pot on a pottery wheel!  Think of that scene in “Ghost” or back to your childhood art’s class and the fun of getting your hands in clay and making something.  I dare you not to smile just thinking of it.  Now doesn’t that sound fun?

Your own piece is shipped to you after it is fired, and of course there is the shop upstairs with true, traditional and locally-produced designs (not made in Taiwan, China, India, etc.) at reasonable prices.  You even get to paint your own plate in one of many designs in whatever colors you want.  I love it!  This is the type of creativity that cruise lines should be offering more of, but which if you are willing to go a bit independent and work with a reputable operator such as George, you can enjoy and give you an entirely different experience in a classic island.  Combine that with an incredible lunch overlooking a resort on an isolated bay, and you have had a unique day.

Or something I regretfully didn’t get the opportunity to experience, how about a Greek cooking class? 

I want to encourage you to think beyond the “classics” at times in port.  Don’t be afraid to look for more options, especially if you’re returning to a region where you’ve visited previously.  An island such as Rhodes really deserves a true multi-day holiday, but if that’s not your style and you prefer cruising, this island is one where, if you return more than once, you’ll continue to find new options to explore and enjoy with just a little effort.  These “experiential” options are becoming more the way people want to travel, even when cruising, and I love to be able to find and work with vendors such as these which provide options to my clients.

All in all, it was a really lovely day and I cannot wait for another return visit, perhaps to one of the fantastic hotels (a Small Luxury Hotel of the World, the Rodos Park, is just on the edge of Old Town in a perfect location) as this island intrigues me and is already calling me back for a longer repeat visit.

Rhodes is once again back on most lines’ itineraries, at least a few times a year, as was witnessed by the fact we were the 7^th ship in port this day.  However, even with all that, never felt crowded, other than the fact we were docked a bit out of town from the modern cruise ship terminals.  But Azamara did offer shuttles of course, so all was well and easily maneuvered. 

I was going to include Bodrum in this post, but I think it needs a post of its own, along with the images from Mykonos… so stay tuned!  More to come today!

Quantum of the Seas Open For Booking!

Quantum is Open! 

It is now official, the Quantum of the Seas is open for sale through April, 2015!

Pricing for solo occupancy cabins, Category SB (Balcony) and SI (Inside) are as follows - Remember, no single supplement on these:

• 7 Nt Bahamas: $1,599/NA
• 8 Nt E. Caribbean: $1,659/$1,359
• 9 Nt E. Caribbean: $1,639/$1,299
• 10 Nt E. Caribbean: $1,709/$1,439
• 11 Nt E. Caribbean: $1,839/$1,569
• 12 Nt S. Caribbean: $2,169/$1,749

For double occupancy cabins, pricing begins as follows for Inside (Virtual Balcony), Oceanview and Unobstructed Balcony cabins (Suite pricing available by request):

• 7 Nt Bahamas: $1,149/$1,199/$1,279
• 8 Nt E. Caribbean:  $949/$999/$1,099
• 9 Nt E Caribbean: $1,049/$1,159/$1,309
• 10 Nt E. Caribbean: $1,149/$1,199/$1,369
• 11 Nt E. Caribbean: $1,249/$1,339/$1,469
• 12 Nt S. Caribbean: $1,399/$1,549/$1,729

The itineraries are generally as follows:

• 7 Nt Bahamas: Pt. Canaveral, Nassau, CoCo Cay
• 8 Nt E. Caribbean: San Juan, Samana (Dominican Republic), Labadee

• 9 Nt E. Caribbean: San Juan, St. Thomas, Samana, Labadee
• 10 Nt. E. Caribbean: San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Kitt, St. Maarten
• 11 Nt E. Caribbean: Labadee, San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Kitt, St. Maarten
• 12 Nt S. Caribbean: Labadere, San Juan, St. Maarten, Martinique, Barbados, St. Kitt

Remember that I also am offering up to $150/cabin onboard credit if you book a Quantum of the Seas sailing with my by June 11!  Contact me ASAP at amber@cruiseresource.com to secure your cabin - they are going quickly!  Remember, I must have your legal first and last name as it appears on your passport, date of birth, address, phone number, past passenger number (if you have it), the length of sailing you want, month and type of cabin before I am able to make your booking.

Once I have all the information I need, I will hold your cabin, then contact you back by email to confirm the details and arrange for deposit.  All deposits are fully refundable until the final payment date, 85 days prior to sailing.

Go for it!  This is going to be an amazing ship!

Mykonos.  A spirited, lively town where deliveries are made by scooter.  Shops are filled with interesting items, beyond the typical fare. Shop keepers remember you from years ago.  And life just seems happier.

My office today is Allegro Cafe, just adjacent to the harbor. Lovely view, terrific food and service.  Was recommended here by Elena and Eliza, proprietors of Eliza's, an art shop I came ashore to find today,  and I couldn't have a better location from which to work and write.

 

Mykonos is an island steeped in history, as is the entire region of course, but it just oozes out of its very core.  Nearby Delos Island can provide an archeological and spiritual diversion if you wish, and the nightlife here is legendary, but it is the streets themselves, the beaches and the people which make this such a gem.

Built with a literal labyrinth maze of streets, intended to confound invaders, you may instead find yourself winding in the exact opposite direction from where you thought you were going.  But that's okay, as there's likely something right there you want, too, even if you didn’t at first realize it.  Feeling a bit lost? Find your way to the water and you can easily re-orient yourself again. 

A shopper's delight, with truly fine and surprisingly unique jewelry, clothing and art, along with designer boutiques as well.  But bargain hunters won't be disappointed either.

Like Venice, this is a town in which to intentionally get lost.  See what you find by accident.  Talk with shop keepers.  Get your picture taken with Petros the "Mayor" of Hora (Mykonos Town)... he's a pelican by the way.  Embrace the quirkiness!  This is typical of the spirit of Mykonos!

I was last here about 7 years ago, and the island and its people kept calling me back.  Even though the day I was here I was just getting over a nasty flu, I still remember being completely enchanted.  Nothing has changed with this return visit.

My first order of business once ashore was to find a particular shop. Last time, I was here with my mother and we purchased a lovely lady sculpture. Having left this sculpture with her, today I was on a search to find her replacement for my own home. 

Not quite where I remember, but nothing in Mykonos really ever is, it still didn't take me long to come across the shop by accident. Was as if I were drawn there.  They had renovated, so when peeked inside nothing looked the same. But fortunately the owner asked what I was looking for, and that was all which was needed.  I described the figurine, I remembered the owner's wife's name was Helena, and he said "yes, this is my shop, my name is Yannis."  Of course! 

This time I also got to meet Helena, and their daughter Eliza, after whom the shop is named.  There is now a third generation Helena in Eliza's darling granddaughter as well.

Another lovely lady spoke with me, and is packed up and ready to come home with me, to inspire me, remind me of the crystal blue seas, the joie de vivre which permeates the island, and why, even through memories tinged by fever from so long ago, my eyes sparkle like the sea when I think of this magical island.

While perhaps not quite as picturesque as Santorini, especially Oia, it has its own special charm and beauty.  Photo buffs will find their way to one of the many windmills, either up in the hills, or along the beach, to take memorable pictures of the beautiful vistas.  Sun worshipers will love the beaches.  If you're fortunate to be able to stay into the evening, you can party like the Kardashians (who were here on a private yacht just a couple weeks ago).  Seemingly universal in its appeal, open your heart to Mykonos, and it will open its heart to you, too.

Back again on Sunday, the first port of the next sailing, I will post more pictures then. 

A bit embarrassed... and smug

Sorry I’ve been a bit behind in blogging.  Watch later today and over the weekend for my blogs on Rhodes, Bodrum and Mykonos.  Along with upcoming conversations about food on Azamara Club Cruises, the new more inclusive pricing, specialty restaurants, service, etc. 

If you have topics you’d like me to address while I’m onboard, please feel free to drop me a note on my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cruiseresource, or email me at amber@cruiseresource.com.

And now to tonight’s blog…

I’m going to share a bit of an embarrassing secret.  I’m feeling very satisfied with myself right now.  I shouldn’t admit it, I should be very humble and quiet, but I can’t help it. 

Why?  Because instead of packing right now and rushing around, trying to get all the last details done, final dinner, feeling a bit melancholy after a good cruise that I’m going home and leaving new friends… I’m sitting up in the Sunset Bar, watching the approaching sunset over Mykonos, and chuckling to myself because I booked this as a back-to-back and I get to stay onboard tomorrow whilst everyone else disembarks.

If you’ve ever wondered about back-to-backs and how they work, let me give you a little inside information.

First off, many lines, Azamara Club Cruises included, offer discounts to passengers booking more than one sailing in a row.  Meaning that not only are you getting a better per day return on your airfare, especially important when it’s expensive such as to Asia or Europe, but your cruise fare is also reduced. 

Second, since more and more lines are varying their itineraries, you can put together two very different itineraries in one fell swoop, like I have done here with Greek Islands/Holy Land followed by a Black Sea cruise.  I am only repeating Athens as we are returning to the original embarkation port, and Mykonos, which makes me very happy.  Otherwise, in 21 days, it’s all new, all the time. 

Finally, the cruise lines do everything they can to make it easy for you.  Many times you don’t even have to disembark (even if you do it’s expedited and made quite simple), and if you book early enough, you don’t have to change staterooms.  If you do have to move, the crew helps you with it, so you’re not actually having to pack and unpack again.  I do have to move tomorrow, but it’s just across the elevator lobby, so I will just shuttle back and forth, probably take me all of 20 minutes to be fully settled in the new cabin and the rest of the day is mine, to go ashore if I wish, into Athens, or do as I’m actually going to do and work… Have to do a bit of catching up on these blogs after all before I head to Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine.

There’s no question, for most North Americans, arranging the time off is more difficult when considering back-to-backs.  In today’s meeting of those continuing to the next sailing, I’d say about 90% were from Europe, Australia or similar where they have more vacation time, or those who are retired.  However, if you do have the time, it really is wonderful to be able to put together sailings and get a lot more for relatively little additional cost when it’s all added in.

So forgive me a bit while I celebrate my good fortune to be able to do this in the name of research and education.  I hope ship’s security doesn’t film me skipping down the hallway tonight between the suitcases which have been put out.  It could be quite embarrassing on YouTube…

People Are Good Everywhere!

So often when we travel, we are cautioned to be careful of everyone, to be a bit suspicious of anyone offering kindness or service.  As Americans, we often are too trusting.  However, to go the other way also is the wrong attitude.

Yes, in certain areas, theft is a real concern, and heightened awareness and diligence is necessary.  Rome, Barcelona, Athens, the Paris metro.  But it is also good to be open to the kindness offered.

Yesterday, in Paphos, Cyprus, I was trying to upload the videos from the previous night’s AzaMazing Evening event.  As they were quite large files, I didn’t want to pay from the ship, and I needed a fast connection.  Found a nice internet café, but quickly realized that wasn’t going to be enough, either, especially from my tablet.

Just in case, I’d brought the files on a jump drive, but knew most cafes don’t allow you to use them, as they can infect their computers.  But when I explained what I was doing, and why, they so kindly allowed it.  But even then, the connection wasn’t enough, the files too large, and my time in port too short.  I was in a bind.

The owners offered to copy the files to their hard drive, and continue the uploads into the evening.  I offered a price, and they graciously accepted. 

Without their assistance, I couldn’t have posted the earlier blog so you could see the sights and sounds of the torchlight concert event.

Good internet cafes are hard to find in any port, so I want to give a shout out to Bharti Internet & Call Center.  They are at the opposite end of the main promenade from the tender dock, but a fairly easy walk along the cafes.  Their address is 32 Alkminis Street, opposite Cloi Chinese restaurant just off the promenade.  Please, if you find yourself in Paphos and need internet, seek them out.  They are kind, honest and helpful… and have great rates!