Standing at the crossroads of three continents, Northern Cyprus has a vibrant history, a perfect climate and the warmest welcome in the Mediterranean. 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. The natural beauty of the island, the lovely climate, the warmth and generosity of the Turkish Cypriot peoples and the abundant selection of fresh foods make Northern Cyprus an unspoilt and non-commercialised haven.
Geography
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus comprises an area of 3,355 square miles and encompasses the northern part of the island, which is the third largest in the Mediterranean. It is situated at the cross-roads of east-west and north-south navigational routes, is only 70 kilometres south of Turkey and 385 kilometres north of Egypt. Owing to the location of Northern Cyprus and its proximity to the rich Middle Eastern countries, it provides an ideal place for foreign investment.
Climate
The climate of Northern Cyprus makes the island one of the healthiest places in the world in which to live, consisting of a long hot summer and a dry short winter. The country enjoys approximately 330 days of sunshine annually, and the lowest sea temperature is rarely below 60 degrees F.
Major Towns
The capital of TRNC is Lefkosa (Nicosia), which is the main administration and business centre. Other towns include Magosa (Famagusta) - the country's principal port, Girne (Kyrenia), a town of touristic importance and archaeological interest, and Güzelyurt (Morphou), which is the centre of the citrus plantations.
Language
Turkish is the official. language and English is the second language, and is widely used and understood in official and commercial circles. There are several first-class Turkish language teachers available, and some British residents avail themselves of their services.
Time
Local time is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
Household items
Most household items can be bought in North Cyprus at about the same price as Europe. Most international makes and models are available (Whirlpool, Kelvinator, Candy, Philips, Beko, Sony etc) Auctions are also held monthly where a vast array of items can be purchased at reasonable prices.
Running costs
Living costs in the TRNC are much cheaper than the UK and most of Europe. There is no rates system at present. The main costs are electricity (approx. £25 monthly per house for a couple), water (£5 monthly) and an annual council tax is less than £60. Central heating is becoming more popular with new build properties and is usually run on gas or oil. Most cookers are run on calor gas and/or electricity.
Currency
The Turkish Lira (TL), which has been in circulation since 1974, is the legal tender. The official rates for the TL are adjusted daily according to changes in international monetary markets. Generally speaking, all foreign currencies are acceptable at trading/tourist outlets. In January 2005, the new Turkish Lira or Yeni Turk Lirasi (YTL) was introduced. The 6 zeros were be dropped making 1,000,000 TL - 1 YTL
Mains Services & Communications
Mains power 240/415 volts AC. 50Hz. Plugs are usually English standard. We do experience many power cuts so surge protectors are an excellent item to bring with you!
Water by mains supply via water tanks and in some properties (in particular with larger gardens) supplemented by wells.
International telephone system plus facsimile and internet Broadband has just been introduced to North Cyprus.
Traffic
As in the UK, traffic circulation is on the left. Road signs are international. There is a large selection of car hire companies with a variety of vehicles at favourable rates, from £10 per day in the winter to £15+ in the peak season.
Transport
The newly refurbished Ercan (pronounced Airjan and approx 25 minutes from Kyrenia) airport handles the bulk of the tourist traffic, whilst Gecitkale serves as a back-up airport. Daily flights from many mainland Turkish cities, as well as flights from the Europe, supply the majority of the visitors to the island. Many people are flying to Larnaca in Southern Cyprus and crossing the border.
Airlines flying to North Cyprus are Cyprus Turkish Airlines, Turkish Airlines and AtlasJet. No visa is required to N. Cyprus and if you prefer not to have your passport stamped when entering the country, you can have a blank piece of paper stamped.
Dining out
There is a huge selection of excellent restaurants in the north, ranging from authentic Cypriot cuisine to Chinese, Indian, Italian and even Thai!
The mild climate, the natural and scenic attractions, the rich antiquities, coupled with the hospitality of the Turkish Cypriots, make N Cyprus an ideal place for tourists. There is none of the pestering of holiday-makers that is so common now in other Mediterranean resorts.
