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Cyprus |
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For those Cyprus devotees who know and love the island this introduction may have little to offer other than as a reminder of just what the island is all about. For those not yet familiar with Cyprus, the best (and often used) adjectives that would top the list when writing copy such as this, would undoubtedly include 'sun-kissed','sharply contrasting','unhurried', 'irresistible', 'fascinating' and such like.
This is not to suggest that the island is perfect. Like any venue it has its 'warts and all' negative points but, on balance, we suggest that many thousands of visitors have been delighted for every one that has encountered any failings. The people themselves, at the root of Cyprus's famous hospitality, are a fascinating blend of Roman, Byzantine, Greek and British influenced characteristics and traits.
The Cypriots, however, are proud of their individuality and warmth of character.
They will welcome strangers into their homes and lives much quicker than those from the countries which influenced Cyprus over the years. The heady mix of Mediterranean weather and cuisine, a low cost of living, and the ease with which one can communicate, makes Cyprus such a favorite among the West Europeans, particularly the British. |
In many parts of Cyprus you will find a life style little changed from centuries ago, when the pace of life was slower and simple pleasures were gained from an equally simple life.
Wherever you travel in Cyprus you will not be far from blossoms, fruit and the sights and sounds of the Mediterranean.
Cyprus has made sure it caters for more sophisticated demands with widespread facilities for fishing, golf, cycling, sailing/yachting, swimming, nature treks, and water sports.
There can be few more pleasurable experiences than sitting in the open air on a balmy Cyprus night enjoying a full scale 'meze' in the company of Greek friends.
Eat, drink and be merry, indeed.
Although Greek is the national language of Cyprus, English is spoken almost everywhere with the exception of some remote villages.
Just bathe in a certain spot when Aphrodite's rocks stand out of the sea and legend says you will live five years longer.
According to Homer Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of love and beauty, was born from the soft sea foam near Paphos.
In Paphos itself, take a trip back through Christianity at the St. Paul Pillar and St.Solomon Catacombs Enjoy the picturesque harbour and castle.
What to Pack
General information and suggestions on what to wear and do, according to season. |
April - May
Days are pleasantly warm, but temperatures may fall a bit at night.
Medium-weight and summer apparel: Light woollies or long sleeved cotton for the evenings.
Excellent season for those who prefer to enjoy nature, as the countryside is green and flowers are in blossom.
June - July - August
Warmest months of summer
Very light weight summer clothing.
Ideal for swimming and all beach/water activities.
September - October
Warm days, cool October evenings.
Light weight apparel for the day and medium-weight for the evenings in October.
Swimming and water-sports are still at their best.
November
Pleasantly warm days
Medium-weight apparel. Light Woollies.
Ideal weather for autumn travel. Lunches in the open-air still a delight. Sunbathing and even swimming can still be enjoyed, as well as most outdoor sports.
December - January
Winter time for Cypriots...
Autumn for our foreign visitors! It may rain occasionally yet the promise of glorious sunshine is still there.
Winter clothing; not heavy coats though!
Outdoor activities and excursions can be enjoyed.
February
The possibility of exceptionally warm days. Almond trees in bloom, occasional rain, and mild day time temperatures are the harbingers of spring. It can be quite cold however in the evenings.
Winter apparel.
Conditions are ideal for snow skiing on Troodos Mountains.
March
Moderating weather with nature at its best.
Winter apparel with medium-weight wear.
Most outdoor activities can be enjoyed, and March is an excellent period for long country walks. |
Languages |
Greek is the official language. English is widely spoken. French and German are also spoken within the tourism industry. |
| Electric Current - Voltage |
The supply in Cyprus is 240 volts, a.c. 50Hz. Sockets are usually 13 amp, square-pin in most buildings.
More than one low current rating appliance may be operated from the same supply point, by using an adaptor (i.e. radios, electric clocks etc.).
The use of adaptors for operating high current rating appliances is not recommended (i.e. electric heaters, toasters, irons etc.).
Many hotels provide adaptors upon request from the Reception.
Adaptors can be purchased from electric stores, supermarkets, grocery shops, etc., at approximately C£1,50.
Socket extensions can also be used (recommended instead of adaptors) and they can be purchased from electric stores and large supermarkets |
| Driving in Cyprus |
Driving in Cyprus is most advisable as regular transport service is not available to all remote areas where many places of interest are to be found.
Fairly good surfaced roads complying with international traffic requirements link the towns and the various villages.
Four lane motorways connect the capital, Lefkosia with the coastal towns of Lemesos, Larnaka and one part of Pafos.
Minor roads and forest roads are still largely unsurfaced but in good to fair condition. Appropriate care should be taken when using these roads, especially during wet weather.
Visitors wishing to bring their car to Cyprus can do so, for a period up to 3 months provided the car has a valid registration license of its country of origin. The period may be extended accordingly, provided the person is considered a visitor by the Department of Customs & Excise.
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