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There is a great deal packed into a small space on the island of Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean. Not only does it abound with good beaches and holiday resorts, but its relatively tiny landmass is riddled with the relics of ancient history, from the beehive huts of primitive man to classical Greek and Roman ruins, and everything imaginable in-between. A thousand years is but a blip in time in the long history of Cyprus, but it was that long ago that the city of Nicosia (also known as Lefkosia) became its capital. Today Nicosia is unique in Europe because it is divided by the 'green line' that bisects the whole island, dividing north from south. The line, which serves as a United Nations peacekeeping buffer, was drawn in 1974, when the Turks invaded and took over the north. Most of the tourism development since then has taken place in the southern Government-controlled sector, and the political divide, even in Nicosia itself, has not dampened the island's appeal as a holiday Mecca. The charms of Cyprus are many and varied. For a start the weather is sunny and dry for most of the year, and the encircling sea is blue, clear and enticing. There are modern luxury hotels in the coastal resort towns, historic restored city precincts to explore, tavernas and nightlife aplenty. Cyprus has remote picturesque mountain villages and monasteries, beautiful churches, Crusader castles and fascinating museums. The local people are extremely welcoming of tourists, happy to share with them their innate love of life and camaraderie. In Cyprus it is possible to mingle with crowds, or seek isolation off the beaten track as the mood takes, even in peak holiday season. For this reason the island is also a favoured destination for honeymooners, a
reputation enhanced by the fact that legend has it that Cyprus was where Aphrodite, Greek goddess of love, rose from the sea. Cyprus Travel Facts: Time: GMT +2 (GMT +3 from the last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: Electrical current is 240 volts, 50Hz. The UK-style three square-pin plugs are used.
Money: The currency is the Cyprus pound (CYP), which is divided into 100 cents. Major credit cards are accepted at most establishments. Money and travellers cheques can be exchanged at banks; it is best to take them in Pounds Sterling. Banks are closed on weekends. There are ATMs spread throughout the island, operating 24 hours a day.
Language: The majority of Cypriots speak Greek, and a small percentage speak Turkish. The Greek Cypriot dialect differs from mainland Greece. English, German and French are spoken in tourist areas.
Entry requirements for UK nationals: British nationals must have a valid passport. For holders of passports endorsed British Citizen or British Overseas Territories Citizen, a visa is not required for a stay of 90 days, provided the visit is for tourist purposes only. In all other cases a visa is required, and passports must be valid at least three months beyond the period of intended stay. However, it is advised to hold a passport valid for six months beyond period of intended stay.
Passport/Visa Note: Travellers should hold an onward or return ticket as well as sufficient funds for period of intended stay in Cyprus. It is also advisable to have a hotel reservation. Nationalities that require a visa are recommended that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay. Travellers should note that foreigners entering Cyprus north of the UN-patrolled 'green line' are deemed by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to have entered illegally, and can be fined when crossing to the south (EU). Policies and procedures are subject to sudden change and visitors should check on the current situation before departing for Cyprus. The partial lifting of restrictions on crossing the 'green line' allows Cypriots to cross in both directions at designated crossing points. It is possible to travel to the north of Cyprus from the south by crossing at several checkpoints, including the Ledra Palace checkpoint.
Health: No vaccinations are required. Samples taken from poultry in north Cyprus on 29 January 2006 have tested positive for avian influenza, but the risk to travellers is believed to be low. Visitors should avoid all situations that would bring them into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds. Health services on Cyprus are of a good standard. UK citizens should bring with them a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which enables them to receive free emergency medical treatment. Medical fees are reasonable in Cyprus, but supplies are expensive. Medical insurance is advised.
Tipping: A 10% service charge is levied in hotels and restaurants so a tip is not obligatory, but small change is always welcome. Taxi drivers, porters etc, appreciate a small tip.
Safety: The terrorist threat is low, and crime against tourists is rare.
Communications: The international access code for Cyprus is +357. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Mobile phone operators use GSM networks and have roaming agreements with most international operators, but not the United States. There are public phones in all towns and villages and can be used for domestic and international calls. Phone cards can be purchased from shops, banks and post offices. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts. |
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