North Cyprus ● General Information

Located at the crossroads of three continents, Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, situated 40 miles south of Turkey. North Cyprus has a population of about 240,000 and an area of 3,355km², with 240 miles of coastline.

Climate

North Cyprus enjoys a very pleasant climate, with warm, dry summers and mild winters, and an average of 300 days of sunshine. In August, the hottest month, mean temperatures range from 21°C to 36°C and in the coldest months of January and february, the average temerature is around 10°C, with a winter average of six hours daily sunshine and only moderate rain, making it an ideal year-round destination.

Time

North Cyprus is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

Language

The official language is Turkish, but English is also widely spoken and used as a second language.

Telephone

The international dialing code is 0090 392.
Public telephones are available and telephone cards can be purchased from any Telecommunications Office.


Emergencies

Ambulance 112, Fire 199, Police 155, Forest Service 177.

Electric Current Voltage

Power is supplied at 220/240V AC, 50 Hz and wall fittings are the UK square three-pin type.

Currency-Cheques-Credit Cards

The local currency is the Turkish Lira (Türk Lirasi, TL) but banks, larger hotels and some restaurants also accept UK Pound Sterling, US Dollars and Euros. Travellers' cheques and major credit cards are widely accepted and there are no currency restrictions on entry to or departure from North Cyprus.

Medical and Health Services

The Central State Hospital is in Lefkoşa and there are other smaller state hospitals in Girne, Gazimağusa, Güzelyurt and Lefke. There are also clinics in smaller towns and some villages. Health services are on duty 24 hours a day. Visitors can obtain free emergency treatment at state hospitals, but treatment at private clinics or hospitals is subject to a consultancy and/or treatment fee.

Public Holidays

New Year's day (1 January), Children's Day (23 April), Labour Day (1 May), Youth and Sports Day 919 May), Peace and Freedom Day (20 July), Victory Day (30 August), Turkish Republic Day (29 October) and North Cyprus Republic Day (15 November).

Passport and Visas

No visa is required for British or EU citizens wishing to visit North Cyprus. The only requirement is a valid passport at the time of travel to North Cyprus.

Diplomatic Representation

There is a British Government Representative in North Cyprus.