Annabelle

The English have always known about Cyprus, but Americans have been slow to catch on — distance is a factor, of course, and the Mediterranean islands strain their limited knowledge of geography. And in decades past, they may not have been missing much; the island was lacking a bit in the hip factor that today's global nomads are after.

It is impossible to ignore Cyprus anymore, though, and Americans had better get used to finding it on the map. Paphos, on the south-west coast, is enjoying a hospitality renaissance, with a surfeit of glamorous resort hotels, and the ranks of old men in black socks and sandals are notably thinner. Travelers of all nationalities have been flocking to the glamorous Anassa, and now they have discovered its sister hotel, the more youthful and vibrant Annabelle.

Youthful and vibrant doesn't mean raucous and loud, though — the Annabelle is all stately elegance and classic charm, at least compared to the Starck-designed boutiques currently springing out of the ground all over the globe. This is a luxury resort all the way, with two swimming pools, four restaurants, and four bars, including the Byzantine Bar, the center of the Annabelle's nightlife.

The rooms and suites are — space, that most crucial of amenities, is in plentiful supply, as are all modern conveniences, from satellite TV to 24-hour room service. Most of the rooms have stunning Mediterranean views, and many come with private pools or Jacuzzis on their sea-facing terraces. There's nothing here to write to Wallpaper* about, just comfortable and understated design, with the focus on the views.

Local activities are legion but an abridged selection would include a trip to the Andromeda Spa, a game of tennis, and a scuba or waterski lesson. Those who prefer culture to sport will find plenty to do in Paphos, with a bustling town market and a seemingly endless supply of Roman tombs. The nightlife is notable as well — there is plenty to do in Paphos after dark, in or out of the hotel. Americans mark your maps; Cyprus is the little dot shaped like the Big Dipper (or a sort of stretched-out United States) over there by Turkey. Yes, that's a country.

How to get there:
Annabelle hotel is approximately a 20-minute drive from Paphos International Airport (PFO).