north cyprus
“A Corner Of Earth Touched By Heaven"
The island of Cyprus is one of the most magical places in the world and North Cyprus is part of this landscape, full of mystery and Mediterranean fragrance. A journey to this most Mediterranean paradise will reward you with glimpses of historical sites which have witnessed a 10,000 year history, an impressive cultural heritage and different glorious treasures of the material world at every season of the year.
Gothic structures such as the Bellapais Abbey, the most wonderful example of Eastern Mediterranean art and workmanship, the St. Sophia Cathedral (Selimiye Mosque), the Cathedral of St. Nicholas (Lala Mustafa Paşa Mosque), the city kingdoms of the classical period such as Salamis and Soli, the three fairytale castles of Five-finger mountain range, the medieval citadel of Famagusta, recognized as a world heritage site and walled city of Nicosia are just a few of the magical stops on this historic journey.
The natural beauty of the island, the lovely climate, the warmth and generosity of the Turkish Cypriot people and the abundant selection of fresh foods make Northern Cyprus an unspoilt and non-commercialised haven.
There is virtually no crime to speak of, and this country is reminiscent of UK standards long lost, where hospitality, politeness and the general enjoyment of life are the daily norm.
Northern Cyprus enjoys a typical Eastern Mediterranean climate with long hot summers and short mild winters. The northern coastline, which borders the Girne (Kyrenia) mountain range, is accepted as one of the most beautiful areas in the world in which to live. Also, it is host to the Caretta and the Green Turtles.
What you need to know
Climate
The climate of North Cyprus is typically Mediterranean with long dry summers and short, rainy winters. The average annual temperature is 19ºC (66ºF). The temperature in midsummer can soar over 40ºC (105ºF) with the warmest sea temperature in the Mediterranean, averaging 21ºC (75ºF) . The winter weather is very mild and there is an average annual rainfall of 500 mm.
Language
Time
Currency
Since 2005 the official currency of the TRNC has been Turkish New Lira. Symbol: YTL (Yeni Türk Lirası). Banknotes: 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 1 YTL. Coins: 1 YTL; 50, 25, 10, 5, 1 Ykr (new kuruş).
FOREIGN EXCHANGE
Eurocheques, travellers’ cheques, and foreign currencies are usually accepted or exchanged in banks or exchange offices. You may also use most of the credit cards to pay in the hotels, supermarkets, etc.
Emergency services
Ambulance 112, Fire 199, Police 155, Forest Fire 177.
Passport & visas
No visa is required for British or EU (European Union) citizens wishing to visit North Cyprus. The only requirement is a valid passport at the time of travel to North Cyprus. If you prefer not to have your passport stamped on arrival, you can ask at passport control for a separate piece of paper, which will be stamped instead. The only nationalities which require visas for North Cyprus are Nigerians and Armenians.
Public holidays
New Year`s Day (1 January), Children`s & Sovereignty Day (23 April), Labour Day (1 May), Youth and Sports Day (19 May), Peace and Freedom Day (20 July), Victory Day (30 August), Turkish Republic Day (29 October), North Cyprus Republic Day (15 November). The dates of religious festivals vary from year to year.
BORDER CROSSING
There are no longer any restrictions on border crossings for EU citizens in Cyprus, as of 2003. EU citizens are free to cross and spend as much time as they wish on either side of the border any time of the day (24 hrs). At present, there are seven crossing points where pedestrians can cross at the Ledra Palace and Lokmaci border gates are in Lefkoşa (Nicosia), whilst those who intend to cross by vehicle can use the Metehan (Kermia) border gate in Lefkoşa, Beyarmudu (Pile) near the British Sovereign bases at Dhekelia and the Akyar border gates near Gazimağusa (Famagusta) on the Larnaca-Famagusta road, Bostanci near Guzelyurt and Yesilirmak west of Lefke.
Telephone
Car Rentals
Visitors to North Cyprus can drive using a valid international driving license or a valid British driving license for an initial 12 month period. Car rental is relatively inexpensive and is widely available through tour operators, hotels or car hire companies across North Cyprus. Visitors are advised to check when booking as both left and right hand drive cars are available for hire. Please note driving is on the left, as in the UK, and all North Cyprus rental cars carry a distinctive red licence plate. If you arrive at Larnaca airport in South Cyprus, you can hire a car and drive across the border, but you will need to purchase extra insurance at the border. Please note that it is not currently possible to drive a car hired in North Cyprus to the South of the island.
