Wednesday 25 May: AYIOS PHILON to SALAMIS (50 miles)

It has been too windy for turtles. We gather that they don't come ashore unless it is calm so our turtle hunt has been in vain. We will have to make do with the tracks we have seen in the sand leading to the nests dug at the back of the beach and the small terrapin that they have put in the fountain at Oasis. We say our farewells to Cavid who has looked after us so well. We are pleased that we had an extra unexpected day at Karpaz. We first stop at Ayios Thrysos, an ancient Church by the sea with numerous colourful icons. Then we head up the hill to Sipahi, home to 130 Greeks who decided to stay behind despite partition. We had heard that every Wednesday the UN deliver supplies to them and sure enough, incredibly, as we arrive we meet a group of UN lorries laden with goods. We visit Ayia Trias, the site of a 5th century Basilica with 3 aisled structures with columns, baptistry, fonts and impressive mosaics that we can still walk on. There is even an unusual mosaic of two pairs of sandals facing in opposite directions.

We then join the main road again which becomes increasingly busy as we head straight into the strong south westerly wind towards Salamis. Progress is slow and arduous and we refuel with Coca Cola on two occasions. Our destination of the Salamis Bay Conti Hotel is a concrete monstrosity on the horizon. The reception area is like the departure lounge of an airport and I have counted over 360 rooms just in the main block (Oasis had 8!) We are even given wrist bands to wear to show that we are half board not all inclusive. Our room however is large, spotless and has a small balcony facing the sea. Once again we are transported into another world and we explore nervously. After the usual beer we find a sunbed on the small beach and grab the last rays of the afternoon sunshine. We have just discovered there is a dress code for supper, thank goodness for Simon's zip on trousers.

Infact there are shorts and flip flops present in the dining room so all is not lost. We get a table outside and then eat for Great Britain, buffet style of course so plates groaning. Well we have cycled 50 miles and didn't have lunch. The food is actually very tasty and an incredible feat of organisation to feed the 5000!