Cyprus; the third largest island in the Mediterranean and a place steeped in natural beauty and mythology. It's the birthplace of Aphrodite and the home to Neolithic dwellings and Bronze Age tombs. Every year it welcomes around three million tourists with open arms and introduces them to the friendly Cypriot way of life, making Cyprus the 40th most popular tourist destination in the world. Maybe you are one of the people who has fallen in love with the island and every year you join the millions of tourists who enjoy its naturally diverse landscape. If so you may think you know everything there is to know about the island, but we've found eight little-known facts that may surprise you...

Natalie from the popular baking blog Hello Cuppies is no stranger to the Italian lifestyle. She took a break to the dazzlingly beautiful island of Sicily, but now she has opted for a more rural escape and took to the rolling hills of Tuscany. The commune of Altopascio in the province of Lucca offers a highly desirable getaway, with striking scenery and a cultural history dating as far back as the ancient Romans. In fact, it gained popularity because of the hostel Spedale where pilgrims stayed, who travelled on the Via Francigena, a pilgrimage starting in the English cathedral city and leading to Rome. But, today it has slowly become an ideal place for an escape to the rural Italian countryside. Natalie gives her tips for an exciting villa escape...

Unspoiled landscapes are matched by neo-classical architectural castles and historic villages, and the size of Slovenia means that a lot can be seen in a relatively short time.

 It doesn’t matter if you have an in-depth knowledge of Ancient Greek Gods, or a mild interest in the film adaptations of their stores, the fact is these myths are deeply rooted in the history of many countries throughout Europe and the world. Names like Heracles, Zeus and Aphrodite are all characters within Greek mythology, whose names are now commonplace in modern society and you could be enjoying a similar lifestyle to them as you sup beautifully crafted wine and lay back enjoying these luxurious properties, all located in countries with ties to Ancient Greek mythology... 

The Philippines is an alluring paradise, which gently calls to the adventurer in all of us, the gently swaying palm trees, exotic critters scurrying around the islands and turquoise waters, just asking to be swam in. What could be better than a tropical utopia, home to 7000 islands ready to discover? with snorkelling, spelunking kiteboarding or even canoeing there’s something for the adrenaline junkie in all of us, or if you prefer a leisurely walk around the island, soaking up some rays, then this is definitely the place for you. If you’re still not convinced take a look at these spectacular images, that’ll have you hurrying to the airport and boarding the next plane to the Philippines.