Northern Cyprus is a place full of magic; fully fulfilling the title of “Pearl of the Mediterranean”. It is a rich, colorful tapestry of unspoiled natural beauty, ranging from sparkling, crystal clear waters and golden beaches to fields carpeted with spring wildflowers and the pine-clad heights of the Besparmak Mountains.

For centuries, Cyprus has been influenced by the cultures of many different nations, resulting in an island with a rich and diverse historical and architectural heritage. From Soli and Vouni in the west, the Moorish Ahmet Pasha Mosque in Lefkosa to Salamis and the site of Apostolos Andreas in the east, there is much to reflect 9,000 years of civilization.

Accommodation:

A wide range of accommodation is offered, ranging from 5-star hotels, Hotel-Bungalows and Hotel-Apartments to

Camping and independent apartments and villas.

COST LINE:

The beaches of Northern Cyprus are among the cleanest and safest in the Mediterranean. The average water temperature is 24°C between May and October. The summer season enlivens the Hotel Beaches by offering an excellent service to its clients in terms of eating and drinking facilities, without forgetting the provision of umbrellas and sun loungers. Some of these beaches will also offer activities such as water skiing, banana rides, jet-skiing. windsurfing and diving.

TRAFFIC:

Drive on the left. Traffic and road signs are international. The maximum speed is 100 km/h. Vehicles entering Northern Cyprus must be insured on arrival.

CAR RENTAL:

This service is available in all major cities and large hotels. A British or international driving license is required. Rental cars have red number plates.

PHONE:

The international telephone code for Northern Cyprus is 00 90 392 followed by the local Cypriot number. There are public phone booths available and (phone cards can be purchased at the Telecommunications office.

MAIL:

The outgoing postal system is reliable. Incoming mail must have “Mersin¬10, Turkey” and not “Northern Cyprus” at the end of the address. The history of the postal service in Northern Cyprus will definitely be of interest to all philatelists.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT:

A good and cheap network of buses and minibuses operates between the main cities, plus there are Dolmus (Shared Taxis) that operate on the same routes. Taxis are widely available and are metered, however there are standard prices for standard journeys.

TOURIST INFORMATION:

Tourist information offices are available in all major cities. Tour guides. Hotel receptionists, taxi drivers and locals are also good sources of information.

RESTAURANTS:

There is a great selection of restaurants, ranging from the humble Corbaci (Soup House), serving authentic ethnic cuisine, to modern French, Chinese and Indian restaurants. Prices vary accordingly. There are also a number of excellent Cypriot cuisine restaurants offering very good value for money.

BARS:

A wide range is available to suit all tastes, serving local beers, raki, brandy and of course imported alcohol. A must is the National cocktail, a Brandy Sour.