Varosha is the ghost town of Cyprus. Walking through here was unsettling for me especially with the discussion before hand. Something that sunk in for me was how they have no photographs of family, weddings, or special events after the invasion. The no picture signs and military presence gave the place an unwelcoming feel. Generations passed down these houses and it was all gone in an instant. After today, I understand why it is such a hard topic for Greek Cypriots, especially in only a short time of 50 years since the invasion.

Famgusta is also on the Turkish side of Cyprus. I felt less welcomed by the people of Turkey than I did on the Greek side. It was strange how in the middle of the ruins there were shops and commercialized areas. The Othello castle was in this area. The castle was originally built in the crusades to protect Famgusta from the mid evil town. Around the town there were shops and lots of fake designer items. When we left I felt different and understood more where the people of Cyprus were coming from. I understand more about their history and culture from these site visits.

Dimitra has been very informative about the agriculture and vegetation in Cyprus. I did not know Cyprus had 1,649 native plants, and 50 of them are different types of orchards! My favorite plant she mentioned was the Jacaranda trees. These trees are purple and very vibrant. They came to Cyprus when the people of Cyprus traveled from Africa and brought them back with them. Now, they are considered a Cyprus plant. On the way to Varosha, Dimitri told us about her friend who was supposed to get married on the day of the invasion. This was heartbreaking and eye opening.