Has anyone ever needed a vacation more than in 2020?! Travel plans have been shelved globally due to the Covid-19 pandemic, ironically, at a time where EVERYONE could do with that break from reality. Find out why the Leonardo Plaza Cypria Maris Hotel and Spa in Cyprus is THE destination to escape the lockdown life. The only catch… you definitely will not want to leave! The Doors to travel have flung wide open in recent weeks, so why not make the most of it and enjoy some last-minute fun in the sun?
Hospitality Of The Highest Order
We arrived late night/early morning (2 am Sunday Morning). However, this did not stop the warmest of greetings. Such a relaxed atmosphere was very welcoming. For most people, this was the first country they had ventured to since the pandemic hit hard, so being put at ease regarding the whole situation was so important. The hospitality we were met with was a feature that did not lapse throughout an incredible stay. A stay which we even extended as we couldn’t bring ourselves to leave just yet!
We were immediately put at ease with the hotel’s covid-19 protocol. The hotel really emphasises guest safety as a top priority. Sanitation stations situated all over the hotel served as a great relief in these horrible times. It was so nice to see a smiling face again, as we all know there has not been too much to smile about this year.
As if the hospitality wasn’t enough, the atrium to the hotel is breathtaking enough.
Whatever you need and no matter what time of day, the amazing staff at reception will bend over backwards to help you out. Fancy a day trip to see what Paphos has to offer or a restaurant in town for a change of scenery? Their knowledgeable and friendly staff will do everything they can to help and nothing was too much to ask.
Facilities
So, hospitality is not all that Leonardo Plaza boasts… oh no. The array of bars and restaurants is great. The hotel has a lunch buffet, garden and dinner buffet plus two a la carte restaurants to choose from- Asian and traditional Greek. A heads-up… book your a la carte restaurants on arrival or as soon as possible as they are VERY popular and fill up fast. The food was great anywhere we ate. There was something for everyone with a great choice which differed each night.
I see sushi 
Couldn’t resist
There is a choice of; indoor and outdoor pools, a spa with treatments available, gym with state of the art machines and even a swim-up bar pool.
During the evenings the hotel area rather than poolside is the place to be. Live entertainment every night, a lobby bar in the beautiful reception area and their own on-site night club with resident DJ.
And that’s not all… find out how to get access to the executive lounge later in the article!
The Rooms
The hotel offers a range of different rooms to suit all. From rooms with views looking over the Troodos mountains to panoramic sea views where the sunsets are hard to beat anywhere in the world. The rooms range from standard double all the way up to the presidential suite with its own swimming pool. I am a sucker for a sunset, so it had to be a room with a panoramic sea view!
On top of this, all of the hotel rooms have a balcony to sit and enjoy a glass of something cold while watching the sunset over the horizon. Those who have a bungalow room with swim-up pool right to their porch have only a 30-second walk to the beach for amazing views.
There is an option to upgrade to the deluxe double rooms, situated on the 6th floor. Not only are you guaranteed a great view, but they also come with their own particular perks. Deluxe rooms get you platinum wristbands and allow a number of additional extras. These range from personal sunbed booking around the pool or gardens and all-inclusive drinks upgrade package. This includes premium imported spirits and access to the incredible ‘Executive Lounge’.
Not one for an all-inclusive package? No worries, Leonardo Plaza Cypria Maris offers B&B, half board and full board options as well. You can also pay for use of the restaurants without being all-inclusive as well.
The Hotel Executive Lounge
This little gem is exclusive for platinum wristbands and boy is it worth the upgrade! From help-yourself drinks to incredible snacks and mini-meals throughout the day. It is an amazing spot to take lunch and admire the views of the mountains. With it being exclusive to platinum residents and accessible only by key-card, it is a great place to get away from it all and just sit back and relax.
The Views To Cure The Blues
The views from the hotel really sell itself. Even after watching a beautiful Cypriot sunset from the comfort of your balcony, the beauty doesn’t end there. The grounds are lit up after sunset showcasing a different beauty altogether. Why not take a stroll down the jetty at the beach and take in the aura of the tranquil, picturesque setting and take in the view. Take a look for yourselves.
The Location
Paphos airport is situated just 15-20 km away. So no lengthy transfer after landing. The hotel is perfectly situated right on the beach, with water sports available daily. Not one for watersports? Why not take part in the daily water aerobics or yoga sessions at sunset? The harbour and town centre, with access to a number of bars, restaurants and archaeological heritage sites are just a few km across a beautiful coastline. Don’t fancy the walk? 6-8 Euros in a taxi will get you there in no time.
A 5-minute walk from the hotel brings you to the beautiful St Nicolas church situated at Cyprus’ ‘sunset point’. An adorable little chapel just off the beach overlooking the sea is a wonderful way to start the day.
The Hotel Staff
Smiles are everywhere. From bar staff to cleaning maids, everyone will go out of their way to greet you and put a smile on your face. A particular thank you has to go out to Michelle and Andrie in management who went above and beyond to make my stay incredible. We really miss everyone and would love to head back again in the future!
Booking This Incredible Hotel
As a fully licenced independent travel agent, let me take the stress out of booking your next trip. I would be happy to help you book this incredible destination, with help along the way in regards to passenger locator forms, covid testing and other requirements that have put people off travel for so long. Do not let this be an excuse to not live your life!
So what are you waiting for? Drop me a Whatsapp message on 07817324172 now and get an amazing deal and get away from these Covid blues!
Find out how and why booking with an independent travel agent will save you time and money
Blog post in collaboration with Leonardo Plaza Cypria Maris hotel. All images are my own and a big thank you to all staff at this wonderful hotel.
My name is Ryan Cook and I am the founder of Travel With Cooky. I am a travel enthusiast sharing my top travel tips and destination reviews helping you to travel more for less.