Corfu is an island of contrasts. Its slopes are covered in majestic pines stretching above the silver leafed olive trees, rugged coasts with intimate coves open out into long sandy beaches. Corfu is a place where the cultures from east, west and Greece intermingle offering their best to the island. There are many local delicacies such as kum kuat liqure, nouboulo (cured pork sausage) and other spiced meats, and caramelised peanuts are just a few. Indeed, it can be said that there is nothing that the Corfiots enjoy more than a good meal  and a glass or two of wine shared in good company. All along the coast there are many picturesque resorts among them Kassiopi, a traditional fishing village with its own ancient ruined castle where Nero had stayed and the pretty hamlet of Ayios Stephanos with its string of tiny tavernas on the beach front.Although Corfu has a well organised tourist infra-structure, the traditional way of life is never far away and always in the hearts of the local people.