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North Cyprus Guide

Covering an area of some 300 kilometres sq. Northern Cyprus is one of the largest Eastern Mediterranean islands, enjoying a climate of long hot summers and short mild winters.

This beautiful untouched island has a mixture of wooded mountains, crusader castles and a magnificent coastline.

Combine the Countries natural beauty , lovely climate, friendliness of the people and the slower pace of living, it is understandable that those who live or visit here know it as the unspoiled jewel of the Mediterranean. 
 
The crime rate is extremely low. Like the U.K. driving is on the left hand side of the road.
 
Dating back to the 12th century the British have had interests in the island, and still to the present day British is adopted by the Northern Cypriot Government.  This makes an easier and smoother transition for, a warm welcome to British visitors or residents, as English is widely spoken.  It is unofficially the second language of the island.
 
The Turkish North of Cyprus is far less developed than the Greek South and as a result property and land prices are generally much lower.  This may change in the future, possibly in the near future, depending upon the arrangements of any future settlement between the two parts of the island.  Although prices will increase substantially, strict building guidelines are in place to stop over development.  Outside the towns only two story buildings are allowed and a maximum build area of 20% will be granted. The North has in comparison to the South, suffered (or benefited some might argue) from a lack of international recognition and support over the years, and has to a large degree remained a relative backwater in terms of overall financial development and support influences.
 
It is true however, that in more recent times the Turkish Government has provided fairly substantial financial support, particularly to the infrastructure with help to build good class roads between the Towns and Cities of Kyrenia (Girne), Nicosia (Lefkosa) and Famagusta (Gazi Magusa).
 
The EU has awarded 260 million euros and America 300 million Dollars to the Turkish Cypriots for endorsing the UN reunification plan for The Island, which was thrown out by The Greek Cypriots.
 
Gerneral Information about North Cyprus

Climate
With over 300 days of sunshine each year Northern Cyprus is known for it’s long hot summers with temperatures rising to over 30 C and short mild winters dropping to 16 C.

Major Towns
Lefkosa “Nicosia” is the Capital of the TRNC and the main business and administration centre.  Other towns include the countries principle part Magosa “Famagusta” the touristic town and archaeological interest area.  Girne “Kyrenia” another tourist area with the old port and Guzelyurt “Morphou” for the citrus plantations.

Shoppping
Most well known brands of clothing and electrical goods are imported onto the island and can be found readily available in the local shops in the main towns.
A wide variety of local produce can be purchased from the supermarkets and local stores.
The low cost wine and spirits are particularly popular amongst foreign visitors such as the local Cyprus Brandy at approx. £1.25 per bottle.
Most goods are subject to (KDV) which is the UK equivalent to (VAT)
Please note that in summer most shops and banks close for a few hours in the afternoon

Airport
The main airport is Ercan which has recently been upgraded to take commercial international flights and is approximately 30 minutes by road to the Town of Kyrenia.

Ferries
There are scheduled ferry boat services from Gazimagusa (Famagusta) to Mersin, situated on the Southern coast of Turkey.  In addition daily services via sea bus run from Girne (Kyrenia) to Tasucu in Turkey.

Currency
The Turkish Lira (TL), which has been in circulation since 1974, is the legal tender.  The official rates for TL are adjusted daily according to changes in international monetry markets.  Generally speaking all foreign currencies are acceptable at trading/tourist outlets and Sterling is widely used and often preferred.

Bills and Taxes  

There is no income tax here for retired foreigners.  There is a minimal property tax of approx. £10-£15 per annum.
 
Water costs approx. £10/month
 
Electric approx. £20-£30/month

Border Crossing
There are no longer restrictions on border crossings for EU (European Union) citizens in Cyprus.  Citizens are free to cross and spend as much time as they wish on either side of the border by providing their ID cards or passports at crossing points at any time of the day (24 hrs).  Vehicles can cross at Metehan (Kermia) border gate in Lefkosa (Nicosia), Beyarmunden (Pile) at Dhekelia and Akyar near Gazimagusa (Famagusta).  There is also a border at the Ledra Palace, Nicosia which is for foot crossing only.  Please note you cannot take a hire car from the North to the South, the Greek authorities will not allow it, but you can from the South to the North.

Car Hire
A British or international driving licence is necessary.  Most hire cars are less than 12 months old.  Book your holiday car with Tropicana Rent A Car

Public Transportation
There is no train service on the Island.  A good, inexpensive network of buses and mini buses  operates between all the main Towns across Northern Cyprus.  Taxi’s are in abundent supply and rates are very good.  There is no overcharging here, they are all fair.

Time
Local time is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Electricity
Is the same as the U.K. 240/415volts a.c. 50Hzs.  The plugs are exactly the same as the U.K.

Emergency Phone Numbers:
POLICE . 155      
AMBULANCE. 112      
FIRE. 199     
FOREST FIRE. 177

 
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