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Do not wander into areas close to the “Green Line”, which is patrolled by UN peacekeepers and by the Turkish and Greek Cypriot security forces. Crossing the line anywhere other than at the official Ledra Street checkpoint in Nicosia, either by accident or on purpose, is dangerous and may result in imprisonment. If you do cross, you must return by 5pm the same day.

Britain’s sovereign bases in the south, at Akrotiri (Episkopi) and Deryneia, are also used by US forces and are likely to be on heightened alert in these security-conscious times. Do not intrude on military installations. The same applies to Turkish Army personnel, equipment and installations in the occupied North.

As well as avoiding taking photographs of military installations, vehicles and army personnel (including UN soldiers on the “Green Line”), it is best not to take photographs at airports or government buildings, especially in the North.

Cyprus has some of the hottest weather in Europe, and it is easy to get sunburnt any time from early April until late October. Young children are especially vulnerable. Sunhats, a high-factor sunscreen and sunblock are essential.

Although mosquitoes in Cyprus do not carry disease they can be a pest in summer. Most hotel rooms do not have plug-in deterrent dispensers, but these can be bought in all local stores. Repellent containing “deet” or citronella oil keeps them at bay outdoors after dark, but wear long sleeves and long trousers to reduce the risk of being bitten.

Cyprus has its share of sleaze, with so-called “cabarets” featuring topless pole-dancers in Larnaca, Nicosia, Agia Napa and, especially, Limassol. Drinks are over-priced (sometimes by several noughts added to the bill), the atmosphere can be intimidating and credit card fraud is not uncommon.

The events of 1974, when the island was divided between the Turkish and the Greek Cypriots, are still remembered with bitterness. In both the south and the North, local people vehemently argue the justice of their cause. Politics and recent history are subjects that are best avoided.

The Cypriot take on “international” cuisine is not always entirely successful. However much you may be craving your home cuisine, it is advisable to avoid restaurants that seem to try too hard to cater to every possible taste – and make too much use of the microwave oven. Local restaurants are always a better bet, for taste and hygiene.

In the 1990s Agia Napa’s rise to fame as a clubbers’ paradise prompted fears of increased drug use by the party crowd, and a crack-down by Cypriot police. Penalties for possession of any type of drugs are severe and Cypriot club owners are encouraged to turn in people seen using.

Cyprus is keen to keep its image squeaky clean and efforts have been made to turn down the volume at clubs late at night (and early morning) in Agia Napa. However, those seeking peace and quiet may well prefer one of the less party-oriented resorts.