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Northern Cyprus Information |
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Information 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. 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-commercial haven. There is virtually no crime to speak of, and this country is reminiscent of UK standards long last, where hospitality, politeness and the general enjoyment of life are the daily norm.
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 north of Egypt. Owing to the location of Norhtern 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 340 days of sunshine annually, and the lowest sea temperature is rarely below 63 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 households items can be bought in North Cyprus at about the same price as Europe. Most international makes and models are available (Whirpool, 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 the Europe. There is not rates system at present, or community tax. The main costs are electricity (approx. £15 monthly per house), water (£5 monthly) and an annual council tax is less than £50. Central heating is rare in N Cyprus but 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.
Consumer Markets
There is a wide selection of consumer goods of good quality. In addition to locally produced goods almost all foreign brands are available on the market. It can be estimated that the cost of foodstuffs generally is about half of the price in UK, with items such as local brandy, retailing at around £1.20 sterling per bottle.
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.
Employment
There is no acute unemployment problem in the TRNC, and the number of registered unemployed has declined steadily since 1978. The official working week is 40 hours in the winter and 36 in the summer.
Transport
Ercan 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.
About Cyprus
Cyprus is the legendary birthplace of the goddess of beauty, love, and passion, the beautiful Aphrodite. Cyprus is the 3rd largest island in the Mediterranean after Sardinia and Sicily, located 65 Km from Turkeys southern coast. Cyprus mixes European culture with ancient enchantment, warly welcoming you to a world of amazing beaches, mountain peaks, vineyards studded with olive trees and ancient ruins shrouded in the past.... |
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