Useful Information
Climate
The climate of North Cyprus is long dry summers and short rainy winters.
The average annual temp is 19 degrees (60 farenheight) The temp in midsummer can soar over 40 degrees (105 farenheight) With the warmest sea temperature in the Mediterranean, averaging 21 degrees (75) The winter weather is very mild with an average annual rainfall of 500mm.
Language
Turkish is the main language but English is widely spoken everywhere as most of the schools are English speaking.
Currency
The currency is Turkish lira but all other major currencies are accepted.
Public Holidays
- • 1st January New years day.
- • 23rd April National sovereignity and childrens day.
- • 1st May Workers day, spring day.
- • 19th May Youth and sports day.
- • 20th July Peace and Freedom day.
- • 1st August Communal resistance day.
- • 30th August Victory day.
- • 29th October Turkish republic day.
- • 15th November TRNC day.
Date changes every year:
- • Ramazan Bayram-End of Ramazan - 3 days.
- • Kurban Bayram-Feast of the sacrifice- 4 days.
- • Birth of the prophet Mohammed-1 day.
Shopping
Most of the shops in Northern Cyprus are open Mondays to Saturdays from 8am - 1pm and 3.30pm - 6.30pm during the summer months. In the winter they keep the same hours, but do not close at lunchtime. For typical souvenirs of North Cyprus, shop for embroidery, lacework, sheepskin rugs and hand made basketry.
Education
Educational standards in the TRNC's schools are generally high, and the country currently has five universities. Bi-lingual education is available in many places, from infant through to university level.
Shopping
Well-known imported brands are among the range of consumer goods to be found alongside local items and fresh produce in Northern Cyprus's corner shops and supermarkets. Particularly popular among foreign visitors are the selection of low-cost wines and spirits, such as "Cyprus brandy" at just £1.25 a bottle! Almost all goods and services are subject to Value Added Tax (KDV).
Banking and Currency
Foreign currencies can be changed for Turkish lira at banks and exchange bureaus across the country. Banks offer the chance to open deposit accounts in sterling or other major currencies, and funds may be drawn in the foreign currency or in Turkish lira. Some TRNC banks have branches in Britain and others have transaction arrangements with their UK counterparts.
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 Europe supply the majority of the visitors to the island. In addition to air travel, there is a selection of car and passenger ferries from Turkey to the island, the fastest being two and a half hours from Girne to Tasucu.
Medical
Accident and emergency facilities are available through hospitals across the TRNC. Routine medical or dental care may be provided efficiently by private practitioners, at costs much lower than in the UK. Such healthcare can be obtained through international medical insurers.
Religion
The TRNC is a secular state with a predominantly Muslim population which welcomes Christian communities. Anglican worship takes place regularly in the town-centre St. Andrew's Church in Girne, and in the Nestorian Church of George of the Foreigner in Gazi Magusa. The Roman Catholic Church of Terra Santa is also located in Girne and celebrates Mass on the first and third Sundays of the month.