Why? The minute I stepped off the plane for the very first time, something wrapped itself around me. There's a sense of timelessness about Cyprus which takes a hold of you and won't let you go. I ended up there by chance with my husband Ken for a holiday nine years ago. After four years of repeat visits we bought a little place in Paphos, on the west coast of the island. It's bliss.

The best thing: The harbour. It's quaint and pretty and has a smattering of fish taverns, cafés and shopping bazaars. A short walk away is Tea for Two, where they do chips with cheese-and-pineapple toasties. You are always aware of the British connection on the island. Our military base is still there and they even drive on the left.

My ideal day: I'd stroll down to the beach and swim and sunbathe until it got too hot. Then I'd go up to the tavern, on stilts above the beach, and sit for a couple of hours sipping lemon and lime drinks with plenty of ice. Then I'd go home, shower, change and hop into the Jeep to Turtle Beach, where the turtles lay their eggs.

My advice: If you are looking for rowdy nightlife, you'll be disappointed. But if you appreciate landscapes and beautiful views, Paphos is the place. It's a family resort with a lazy pace of life.

Getting there: Air-Flights (0800 0918181) has flights between London Gatwick and Paphos, Cyprus, from £139 return.

· Josephine Cox has just published her 28th novel, Jinnie (Headline, £17.99). This month sees two reading events - World Book Day 2002 on Thursday March 14 and Bedtime Reading Week, March 11-17.