The North of the island is truly unspoilt and has a rich history going back almost 9000 years.  Whether you want to unwind by lying on the beautiful sun drenched beaches or by the side  of the pool or whether you want to go and explore and see the amazing historical ruins,  monasteries or castles, you will always find something to do here in North Cyprus.

 The Cypriot people are renowned for their hospitality and warm welcome. With its delicious  local cuisine, its natural untainted beauty and its resorts free from the noise and crowds,  this is a truly unique destination. Located in the Mediterranean , just 40 miles off the Southern coast of Turkey, the islands strategic position has meant that Cyprus was a stepping stone between the East and West. The historical cross roads of the ancient world.

Northern Cyprus useful Information

The TRNC comprises an area of 3,355 km square miles .It is 70 kilometres south of turkey and 385 kilometres North of Egypt.Poulation of 208,886

Major towns

The Capital of Northern Cyprus is Lefkosa (Nicosia) which is the main business centre. With its border to the South –controlled Greek side. Other towns include Famagusta which is the principal port.Girne (Kyrenia) which is the country touristic industry. With its historic yacht harbour and archaeological interests.

Climate

In Cyprus, where the typical Mediterranean climates are dominant, summers are hot and dry and the winters generally rainy and warm. Approximately 330 days of sunshine annually and the lowest sea tempeture is rarely below 65 degress.In the summer the average temperature is over 30 oc ( 90F) and in the coldest months its around 10 oc (50F)

Time

The local time is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the clocks change on the same day as the U.K

Language

Although Turkish is the official language, English is widely used and understood. There are several first class teachers available.

Banking in the TRNC

 All types of banking services are provided by many of the banks, such as Turk Bankasi which  have branches in London UK.Their are a number of HSBC in and around kyrenia and Nicosia,  you can also use your cash/credit cards in ATM machines to withdraw cash in the local  currency.
 Credit Cards, Access, MasterCard, euro cards, Visa, Diner’s Club are acceptable in larger  hotels, restaurants and shops; sometimes a surcharge is added if credit cards are used.
 Turkish and Turkish Cypriot banks operate and they are open from Monday to Friday  (except Public Holidays) between 08.00-12.00/14.00-16.00 hours.

Currency

The Turkish Lira has been circulation since 1974
The official rates for TL are adjusted daily according to changes in International Monetary Markets.

Postal Service

There is one main Post office In Kyrenia, Postage Stamps are available for a normal letter size at a cost of 50 pence.
Telegrams can only be sent form the main post office and it is very important to put the senders name and address on the back of the envelopes. Do not use and glue or cello tape to seal letters being sent.

Medical and Emergency

Hospitals are situated in Lefkosa, Famagusta and kyrenia.There are many doctors’ surgeries in these areas as well.
Dental treatment is of good standard, most dentists abide the govermements scale of fees.

Emergency Phone Numbers

Medical Assistance 112
Fire service 199
Police 155
Water 152118
Electricity 188
Telephone 161

Transportation

A valid British Driving Licence is recognised in the TRNC, for a limited period as is an International Driving Licence .Anyone owing a car in the TRNC is required to own a TRNC driving licence with a year, if this is not obtained and an accident does occur the car insurance will become void.

Passport/Visa

You can be admitted to Northern Cyprus with any Passport, three month visas are given. In order to extend an application is submitted at the immigration office.