A short history of North Cyprus
Present-day Cyprus is for centuries influenced by cultures from the neighbouring regions: Since 715 BC Assyria, Persia, Macedon, Egypt, the Roman Empire and the East Roman Empire rule the country, only interrupted by a form of independence between 410 and 333 BC. The crusaders conquer Cyprus in 1191 and found the independent feudal Kingdom of Cyprus. During that time the island is mainly populated by Greeks. In 1489 Cyprus is ceded by the Venetian Republic. The island is conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1571. From that moment on Turks immigrate in the island. The Ottomans apply the millet system to the island, which allows religious authorities to govern their own non-muslim minorities. This system reinforces the position of the Orthodox Church and the cohesion of the ethnic Greek population. The United Kingdom leases the island from the Ottoman Empire in 1878 and brings it unders British administration. It remains under Ottoman suzerainty. In 1914 Cyprus is fully annexed by the United Kingdom. Britian grants Cyprus in 1925 the status of crown colony, named Crown Colony of Cyprus. In the colony a growing movement exists that favours unification with Greece. Since 1955 the pro-unification EOKA organization rebels against the British rule. The island becomes independent in 1960 as the Republic of Cyprus on the basis of a presidential-parliamentary democratic constitution that involves power sharing between the majority Greek Cypriot community and the minority Turkish Cypriot community. Archbishop Makarios III becomes the first president, which he remains until 1974. Shortly after the founding of the republic, serious differences arise between the two communities about the implementation and interpretation of the constitution.

In 1963 Makarios advances a series of constitutional amendments designed to eliminate some of the special provisions for the Turkish minority. This prompts widespread intercommunal fighting in 1963, after which Turkish Cypriots cease to participate in government. UN peacekeepers are deployed on the island in 1964. Following another outbreak of intercommunal violence in 1967-68, a Turkish Cypriot provisional administration is formed. After a coup in 1974 by Nikos Sampson, supported by the Greek military government, Turkey invades the northern part. This leads to the formation of a seperate state of Northern Cyprus. When Cyprus becomes independent, the country becomes a presidential parliamentary democracy, based on division of power between the Greek and Turkish populations. Since 1963 the Turkish parties boycot the all-cypriotic government. After a coup in Cyprus in 1974, Turkey invades the northern part and establishes the seperate state of Turkish Federal State of Cyprus. Turkish Cyprus becomes a parliamentary presidential republic. The independence is only recognized by Turkey and de facto it is a Turkish protectorate. Rauf Denktaş of the Ulusal Birlik Partisi (National Unity Party, UBP) is elected as the first president, and later re-elected at all presidential elections. The country is renamed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in 1983. Since 1992 Derviş Eroglu, prime minister since 1985, dominates in the UBP dominates in the UBP, while Denktaş is supported by the Demokrat Partisi (Democratic Party, DP). In 1993 the DP forms a coalition with the social-democratic Toplumcu Kurtuluş Partisi (Communal Liberation Party, TKP), sending the UBP in the opposition. Hakki Atun of the DP becomes prime minister. Eroglu returns to the premiership in 1996 in a coalition of UBP and DP. After the elections of 1998 the UBP forms a coalition with the TKP. This coalition is terminated in 2001 by the UBP. Eroglu becomes prime minister in a coalition with the DP. The elections of 2003 lead to a strong position of the parties that are in favour of a peaceful solution with the Greek Cypriotic community. This leads to a coalition of the socialist Cumhuriyetçi Türk Partisi (Republican Turkish Party, CTP) and the DP under prime minister Mehmet Ali Talat of the CTP. The relation with the rest of Cyprus plays an important role in

Geography and climate
The climate of the island is of an extreme Mediterranean type with very hot dry summers and relatively cold winters. Most of the rainfall is concentrated between December and January. The climate of the coastal parts is less extreme than farther inland, due to the fact that the effect of the sea on atmospheric humidities is always present there. The sea temperature itself never falls below 16°C. (January and February); in August it can rise to 28 °C. Spring and autumn are short, typified by changeable weather, with occasional heavy storms battering the coast in spring and a westerly wind, called "meltem" carrying the influence of Atlantic depressions to this far eastern end of the Mediterranean.


From mid-May to mid-September the sun shines on a daily average of around 11 hours. Temperatures can reach 40°C. On the Mesaoria Plain, although lower on the coasts, a north-westerly breeze called "Poyraz" prevails. The skies are cloudless with a low humidity, 40 - 60, thus the high temperatures are easier to bear. The hot, dry, dust-laden sirocco wind blowing from Africa also finds its way to the island. Short-lived stormy conditions resulting from fairly frequent small depressions prevail throughout the winter, with 60 of rain falling between December and February. The Northern Range receives around 550 mm of rain per year, whereas the Mesaoria Plain receives only around 300-400 mm. Frost and snow are almost unknown in Northern Cyprus, although night temperatures can fall to very low levels in winter and it will occasionally snow on the peaks of the Kyrenia Range.


The chief rain-bearing air currents reach the island from the south-west, so that precipitation and atmospheric humidity is at its greatest on the western and south-western sides of the Southern Range. Eastwards, precipitation and humidity are reduced by the partial rain-shadow effect of the Southern Range, a similar effect is also caused by the Northern Range which cut off the humidity associated with proximity to the sea from much of the northern Mesaoria Plain. Eastwards of the Northern Range, towards the bays of the Karpaz Peninsula, where the land narrows and the effect of sea influence increases accordingly, humidity increases progressively towards the end of the peninsula.

Most of the rivers are simply winter torrents, only flowing after heavy rain, the rivers running out of the Northern and Southern Ranges rarely flowing all the year round. During the wet winter months Cyprus is a green island. However, by the time June arrives the landscape at the lower levels assumes the brown, parched aspect which characterises its summer face. The forests and the vineyards in the mountains, plus the strips of irrigated vegetation in the valleys remain green.

VISAS, PERMITS AND LICENSES
Northern Cyprus is adopting a policy of attracting foreigners to live and work here and there is also great encouragement to invest in businesses, especially within the tourism sector. This includes companies such as travel agencies, transport companies, hotels, bars, restaurants and leisure activities. All foreigners coming to live and/or work in the TRNC must apply for certain permits.

Why North Cyprus
North Cyprus is located in the Eastern Mediterranean just south of its closest neighbour Turkey. The Turkish call Cyprus the Green Island, a reasonable rainfall during the winter months ensures that nature is fully restored during the spring months. Cyprus in spring is green and lush with abundant varieties of orchids and many other wild flowers. The summer months are long and hot, with beautiful blue skies and warm pleasant evenings. Add to this the fine Cypriot cuisine and the friendly hospitality of the Turkish Cypriot community and its no wonder that so many people who visit, return quickly to make it their new home in the sun.

Over the past couple of years the amount of investment in North Cyprus has increased significantly. Since North Cyprus voted "Yes" to the Annan plan in 2004 the EU have provided grants and will continue to invest heavily in the forthcoming years into infrastructure redevelopment. This year sees new power stations coming on line and more spent on road improvements and pavements.

New hotels are being built including 5 star hotels that offer levels of luxury and comfort that would be hard to find anywhere on the Mediterranean. With regular new openings of high quality restaurants and new shops and offices appearing daily its easy to see why now is the time to invest in North Cyprus.

People wishing to purchase a holiday home in North Cyprus or looking to move to North Cyprus and make their permanent home here are of course attracted by the climate where they can expect up to 340 days sunshine a year. And easy access to the U.K, Europe and other worldwide destinations is also of particular importance.

With Ercan airport now fully renovated, regenerated, and open and with EU passport holders free to cross the green line and make use of the airports and ports on the South side of the island, North Cyprus has never been more accessible.

Further reasons why investment property in North Cyprus is so popular and why North Cyprus is such a haven for those seeking out their dream life and their ideal home are because North Cyprus has managed to retain its unique and unrivalled charm and beauty.

North Cyprus is not over developed, it is not a commercial country full of factories and manufacturing plants, it is a safe, quiet, beautiful and un-spoilt place to relax and enjoy life.

It is true to say that retired people who come to live in Northern Cyprus enjoy a much higher standard of living than their UK counterparts for example, with pensions having a much higher purchasing power, and with the reassuring knowledge that one is living in a safe environment. But it is not just an island for retirees, younger people and families find a haven that affords them a safer and healthier environment in which to live and raise children. Familiar goods and services are easily available, supermarkets stock popular British brands and another bonus is you will discover that you drive on the left in North Cyprus too.

Buying a car in Northern Cyprus
Cars are more expensive in North Cyprus than UK
Buying a car on the island is almost prohibitively expensive. While public transport in the form of buses and shared taxis are not very good or affordable in the TRNC, it is still a requirement for many people to have a car of their own - and so time and again people look at ways of getting round the cost of buying a car on the island such as importing one from the UK, registering one in the south or even renting long term.

But none of these ideas work particularly well or is a cheaper alternative to buying a car in northern cyprus than any other alternatives. The only and basic reasıon is there is such a huge tax on the import of motor vehicles.

Bringing Pets to North Cyprus
Pets can be brought into North Cyprus from Europe with little hassle. The Ministry of Agriculture requires a certificate from a European vet stating that your animal is free of major diseases. Quarantine is approximately 4 weeks at the Lefkosa kennels.
For advice contact Margaret Ray chairperson of Kyrenia Animal Rescue on 00 90 533 863 1950

How to Move to Cyprus North
Moving to live in North Cyprus is more complicated because North Cyprus technically doesn't exist! It is a nation (or de facto state) isolated by the international community but one that has finally said; I don’t care and I am getting on with it!

The transformation in North Cyprus in the past few years since the Turkish Cypriots and international community members took the initiative to kick start the economy, bring in tourists and promote the location as an incredibly beautiful and largely unspoiled gem has been intense and dramatic.

Many of the same rules apply to a move to North Cyprus as they do to south Cyprus the rules relating to finances, selling property, finding accommodation and leaving a get out clause. But the rules of immigration are different. Those with EU passports can gain entry but can only remain in North Cyprus for a maximum of 90 days before they have to apply for temporary residence. Anyone who fails to apply within the 90 days must leave the island (going to the South does not count) and re-enter 24 hours later or face daily fines.

Melting Pot of Civilisations
The Persians first adopted Cyprus as a base for their wars with Greece i n the 6th Century BC, lasting until 333 BC when Alexander the Great brought the Persian Empire to a sudden end. The Ptolemies of Egypt ruled for the next 250 years - a glorious period punctuated by Romes invasion of the island in 48 BC. But, Roman rule only lasted a few years, as Julius Caesar bestowed the island to his lover, Cleopatra, the last of the Ptolemies as a gift of love. Only following her death was Emperor Augustus able to return Cyprus to the fold of the Roman Empire.
Between the 1st and 10th Centuries, multiple communities emerged on the island, with Muslim and Byzantine settlers coexisting in relative harmony - that is, until 965 AD, when the Byzantines took full control of the island after defeating the Muslim Caliphate's Egyptian fleet.
Byzantine rule lasted until the 12th Century, when King Richard the Lion-Heart handed the island to Guy de Lusignan, a member of French Medieval Royalty, to finance his expeditions. The Lusignans, inhabited the island for 300 years, from the 12th Century until 1489, when the Venetians captured the island and bestowed upon it the impressive Girne Castle, as well as the celebrated architecture of Gazimağusa (Famagusta) and Lefkoşa (Nicosia), which are all well worth a visit.

Attractive tax regime
As Northern Cyprus is outside the EU and not signed up to the terms and conditions of the EU Savings Tax Directive it is possible and legal, (depending on your own personal circumstances), to offshore all your money legitimately and only pay absolutely minimal tax on the money you remit to North Cyprus. There are financial advisers who specialise in international and offshore finance who can help you arrange your affairs legally and tax effectively so that you can ensure you save maximum tax when living in North Cyprus

Traditional Food of Northern Cyprus
Cyprus has been an island invaded and inhabited by many different nations and people throughout its history and as a result Cypriot cuisine owes a great deal to the external influences that have directly affected it.
Unsurprisingly most of the traditional food and drink in North Cyprus nowadays is very similar to mainland Turkish cuisine though more modern European influences are now beginning to become apparent as are Asian influences and you can find traces of tradition from as far away as the Balkans to Northern Africa in the food and drink of Northern Cyprus today.

Republic of Cyprus:
Mother Nature has been particularly kind to Southern Cyprus and the region has some of the best beaches in the entire Mediterranean. Its geographic location means an almost perfect climate and the intriguing culture is a blend of centuries of tradition. Today Southern Cyprus attracts millions of visitors every year and historic ties with the UK make it a firm favourite with British holidaymakers.
The main resort towns are strung out along the southern coast; each boasting a unique list of selling points. Ayia Napa is perhaps the best known of all and retains pole position as the island's party capital. The once-sleepy fishing village now draws garage devotees from across Europe, giving Ibiza a run for its money as the continent's hedonist HQ. Ayia Napa's sudden rise to fame has relegated Limassol to second place, although both resorts keep most people awake well past their bedtimes.

For anyone looking for a more relaxing break the smaller resort towns of Coral Bay and Protaras are perennial favourites; offering families help with the kids and an environment that allows you to do as much (or as little) as you like. If you are hoping for a glimpse of island life before the tourist boom there are a number of coastal villages such as Polis, Pissouri and Peyia that remain pleasingly out of touch with the pressures of the modern age. Lanarca's charms are more prosaic but this busy city retains elements of Levantine charm.

The harbour town of Paphos is an enticing blend of the old and the new; with luxury resorts butting up against ancient ruins. Paphos serves as the gateway to some of the most beautiful stretches of coastline on the island as well as some of the least developed countryside (such as the untouched Akamas Peninsula to the north). It's also a great spot for history buffs and the nearby ruined city of Amathus is one of the region's unmissable cultural treasure troves.

The Troodos Mountains form the island's rugged backbone and provide a perfect antidote to the searing summer sun and crowded coastal strip. In the winter you can ski on the slopes of Mount Olympus and still be back on the beach by dusk for a quick dip. Rustic vistas of resin-scented forests and tiny Orthodox churches tucked away in quiet groves await those prepared to stray from the beaten track. Descending into the dusty plains below will take you to the capital city of Nicosia; divided by the Green Line, which serves as one of the island's more unusual tourist attractions. Heading southeast takes you to industrious Paralimni and then back to Ayia Napa for another night on the town.

North Cyprus has a unique romantic appeal attracting people who want a taste of Cypriot life before the arrival of the charter flights. The jewel in the crown is undoubtedly Kyrenia whose horseshoe-shaped bay and dramatic sunsets draw tourists like moths to a flame. Throw in a few crusader castles, a generous helping of crumbling classical architecture, the odd medieval walled town, and a dash Middle Eastern exoticism; leave to simmer in the warn Levantine sun and you've got a dish that's irresistible to most. The last decade has seen a tenfold increase in visitors to this part of the island and with direct flights looking likely this seems set to increase; so get there before it's gone.

Northern Cyprus owes much of its charm to the absence of concrete that has blighted great stretches of the south coast. Cyprus may be one island, but it is home to two nations. The Green Line that divides the Greek South from the Turkish North remains intact after three decades of communal confrontation and rancour and despite joining the EU this looks set to continue. The international community has refused to recognise the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus as a valid state and consequently the only way to get there is to fly via mainland Turkey. In the past this has hindered tourism and while the North languished in the touristic doldrums, the South flourished.

However, the irony is that the success of the South has ruined large areas of the island; turning once sleepy coastal villages into a garish neon wildernesses of cheap bars and tacky clubs. Lax construction laws spurred on a building frenzy and much of the original lure of the South was buried under a cloud of concrete dust. Although this has done little to dent Cyprus' popularity as a package holiday destination; the South is no longer synonymous is either relaxation or culture. However, the North has been happy to take up the slack and has become increasingly popular with those in the know'. However, with the ringing of cash registers now competing with the call to prayer, it's unlikely that this gem will remain undiscovered for long.

Time in Northern Cyprus
Local time in North Cyprus is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Summertime is used and the clocks change on the same day as in the UK. Time in terms of when things get done is a bit more relaxed than in most European countries. There is what has become known throughout the world as island time and the mañana (tomorrow) attitude is quite prevalent in North Cyprus. So expect things to get done at a more gradual pace. Appointments are generally kept but might be a bit delayed.

THE ISLAND CULTURE
People never forget the genuine hospitality and relaxed approach of the Turkish Cypriot people. Relatively unspoilt by the modern world, Northern Cyprus still retains an innocence and authentic aura of times long gone, with ancient civilisations and an incredible history, visible in daily life.

Northern Cyprus is some 3,350 square miles in size. The distinctive variety in the character of its geography can be seen from the white North Cyprus sandy beaches of the Karpaz or pan handle, to the Besparmak mountain range cutting between Kyrenia and Lefkosa. The landscape of North Cyprus is a heady mix of Olive and Citrus groves, contrasted by green and rocky mountain sides and the spectacular Mediterranean coast line.

The history of Northern Cyprus and the forces who waged war upon war for this small island in the Mediterranean, dates as far back as the Assyrian, Egyptian, Persian and Byzantine dynasties. Britain's relations with the island dates as far back as the reign of King Richard the Lion Heart, who used the island of Cyprus as a way point for his crusades in the Middle East. This influence dates back to the twelfth century and has remained considerable since those times.

Fabulous antiquities from the North Cyprus, Kyrenia old harbour and its grand Kyrenia castle over looking the Mediterranean to the Turkish coast, to the story book castle of St Hilarion, which became Walt Disney's inspiration for Snow Whites fairy tale castle and immortalised in the present day Disney logo, are apparent throughout this wonderful country.

The Turkish republic of Northern Cyprus is increasingly becoming a popular holiday destination. With its wonderful climate, low cost of living, picturesque scenery and a welcoming local population, Northern Cyprus is also becoming a much sought after place to live.

HEALTH CARE
Along with the growth in other sectors, medical facilities have improved greatly in Northern Cyprus. The modernisation of hospitals is a slow but gradual process. Impressive modern technology from both Europe and America is reaching the T.R.N.C. (Turkish Republic Northern Cyprus). However, even with these positive steps there is still a precautionary approach to medical insurance, with many people acquiring private health insurance from international sources.

Hospitals are situated in Nicosia, Famagusta and Kyrenia. There are many private doctors' surgeries in these areas of North Cyprus as well. The main hospital that handles the bulk of cases is located in Northern Cyprus Nicosia.

Dental Treatment: is of a high standard in North Cyprus, as many dentists are trained in either the UK or America. Ask for the scale of charges first, though.

Eye Tests: Professional eye tests are available locally. Spectacles are 1/3 of the price in the UK. Contact lenses are generally more expensive. However, please note that they do not perform eye tests at most local North Cyprus shops. As a result you have to get your prescription before going to the store to make your classes.

Pharmacies: There are also many pharmacies in each of the districts and cities of Northern Cyprus. In said hospitals you will find most medicines from abroad. Also for you convince there are on call pharmacies for your after hour pharmaceutical needs. There are also on call pharmacies that work during the holidays of Northern Cyprus. Please take note of said holidays and plan accordingly.

North Cyprus Cuisine
The culture of a place is always reflected in its kitchen, and Northern Cyprus is no exception. Cypriot cooking, like its people, is unique. Eating out is popular amongst locals and the choice of cuisine reflects this, combining many wonderful tastes from the Mediterranean, Turkey and the Middle East. In larger towns, a range of international restaurants also offer dishes from around the world.

A typical Turkish Cypriot restaurant meal consists of meze, kebabs (lamb or chicken) or fish, followed by fruit and coffee. Meze is a selection of hot and cold appetizers - the Turkish Cypriot equivalent of Tapas #8211; such as kofte (meatballs), hummus dips, mint yogurt, hellim (goat's milk cheese). A Turkish Cypriot speciality is the şeftali kebab (peach kebab), made with minced meat, chopped onion and spices, wrapped in lamb fat and grilled. Other mouth-watering dishes include marinated fish and squid - and for dessert, lokma (small doughnuts in syrup), Ekmek Kadayif with Cream (Turkish Cypriot bread pudding) or baklava, as well as freshly-picked fruit such as sweet melon, oranges and figs. Wash your meal down with a glass of rakı (alcoholic aniseed drink), or there are also many good wines, beers and spirits, including the famous brandy sour drink a cocktail made with brandy, lemon juice and angostura bitters. If you have room, you may want to finish off with a fix of thick Turkish coffee or tea.

Cypriot home cooking is delicious, but is only found in a handful of restaurants in North Cyprus, so do look out for them. Traditional cuisine makes fine use of the abundant fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs and spices in North Cyprus that can be bought and enjoyed in the many farmers markets and food festivals, as well as the shops and supermarkets #8211; which means Turkish Cypriot cuisine is also packed with vegetarian dishes such as yalancı dolma (stuffed vine leaves with rice, onions and tomatoes), stuffed peppers and tomatoes, melt in the mouth aubergine meals, sigara börek (fried white-cheese rolled in pastry), bulgur koftesi (cracked wheat balls) and home made baked beans. Fresh herbs such as wild thyme, calamint, fennel, oregano and sage flourish in the mountains, ready for picking in June.

Handicrafts north cyprus cyprusa2z info
Lefkara embroidery is an old Cypriot tradition dating back to the Venetian period, where beautiful and intricate items such as bed covers, table cloths, doilies and head-scarves were weaved using drawn and counted thread embroidery on lace. It is said that on a visit to Cyprus, Leonardo da Vinci was so impressed by the Lefkara adaptation of Venetian embroidery that he took some of the embroidery bearing the "potamos" design back to Italy to drape on the altar in the Milan Cathedral. Today, this design is known as the Leonardo da Vinci designs.

Carpet weaving is another age-old Cypriot tradition and is mostly found in the Gazimağusa region. Kilims (small floor rugs) with colourful designs and patterns make ideal souvenirs or gifts, whilst wicker basket weaving is another Cypriot art form that is popular with locals and tourists.

Wildlife cyprusa2z info
North Cyprus is still relatively undiscovered so wildlife flourishes, with some 250 species of birds touching down on the island every year on the passage from East to West. There is also an abundance of lizards, wild donkeys and butterflies, including 19 endemic species, that is, those which are unique to the region, such as the strangely-shaped festoon and Cleopatra butterflies adorned with the colours of sunshine. They are all part of a rich natural heritage on an island of contrasts that spans from the top of Mount Selvili's 3000 feet to the gentle slopes of the coastal waters, where the famous loggerhead turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.

The warm climate in North Cyprus also means visitors can enjoy beautiful flowers all year-round, making it a veritable botanic haven. In the autumn and winter golden-yellow oleanders swathe the hills, whilst multi-coloured anemones and crocuses appear before Christmas. But it is in late winter and spring that the island blooms into a rhapsody of colour with the orchid family and cherry-red poppies taking centre stage.

Geography cyprusa2z info
Located at the cross-roads of three continents, Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, situated 40 miles south of Turkey at its nearest coastal point. It is smaller than Sicily and Sardinia and larger than Corsica and Crete. North Cyprus comprises a total area of 1357 square miles, with over half of the Island's 240 miles of coastline.

Cyprus has been divided into two autonomous states since 1974. This came about by virtue of the linguistic and cultural differences, and as a result of communal friction which lasted for 11 years (see history). Greek Cypriots are situated in the southern and the Turkish Cypriots in the northern part of Cyprus. A boundary known as the "Green Line" runs through Lefkoşa (Nicosia), the capital of both South and North Cyprus, separating the two states. At present there are five border crossings, offering 24 hour unrestricted access for EU citizens to pass across.


Geographical Highlights
The geography of North Cyprus is characterized by a unique blend of beaches, plains and mountains. The long northern coastline is backed by The Kyrenia or Beşparmak (Five Finger) mountain range, forming a startling backdrop with its wooded slopes and magnificent jagged limestone peaks, the highest of which is Mount Selvili at 3357 ft. The lower hills and lowlands are alive with lush greenery, rare species of birds and butterflies, and a natural diversity of flowers that is unmatched in the Mediterranean, with an estimated 19 endemic plant species. Sandy beaches and rocky coves await discovery along the shore.

To the east of the island, the Five Finger mountain range loses height as it extends along the narrow peninsula known as Karpaz or "Panhandl", a spectacular finger-shaped region of rolling hills and unspoilt sandy bays which points to Syria. To the south of the Five Finger range lie the plains of Mesaoria and the capital city Lefkoşa. Other major centres are Güzelyurt in the west, the resort town of Girne on the northern coast, and the second resort town of Gazimağusa in the east.

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

North Cyprus Tourism
The mild climate, the natural and scenic attractions, the rich antiquities, coupled with the hospitality of the Turkish Cypriots; make North Cyprus an ideal place for tourists. There is none of the pestering of holiday-makers that is so common now in other Mediterranean resorts. Since tourism has been singled out as a vital sector for the future development economy of the TRNC, the Government has approved a bill which contains a wide range of incentives for investors

Electrical Mains and Telecommunications in North Cyprus
The electricity supply is 220/240v AC 50HZ, with a standard UK 3-pin plug.
Water by mains supply via water tanks and in some properties (in particular with larger gardens) supplemented by wells. To dial from TRNC to UK dial 00 44 and omit the first 0 of the UK code. To dial from UK to TRNC dial 00 90 392 then the area code, followed by the number required. N.B. Northern Cyprus is 2 hours ahead of GMT. Broadband has just been introduced to North Cyprus.

North Cyprus Guide to Yachts Formalities
(Formalities for Private Yacht Owners) You can enter The TRNC Yacht port if you get preliminary permission or when you enter Kyrenia water. Kyrenia marina address: Kordon Boyu Cad. Vakiflar Ishani Kyrenia Marina Tel: 90392 8153587
Fax:903928152316
Radio VCH16
Harbour Master: Numan Ormanci - Gokhan Guler
Key Master : Hamit Topal

Entering formalities to Kyrenia Marina for yacht owners:
Get in touch before entering the marina
After casting anchor passengers must complete the immigration and customs procedures.
If you are carrying any animals or pets the Veterinary office will be notified in order to start quarantine procedure.
The facilities given at Kyrenia Marine:

Electricity water
Laundry washing drying
Left luggage office
Captain services
Ship washing
Ship technical service
Technical Rules:

Minimum fee is applied up to 7 meters
20 meters (L.O.A) ship -Yacht fees.
Catamaran ships / Yacht (more than 5 meter fee.)
Fees are paid at TRNC central Banks effective buying rate on the day of payment
The fees tariff may change under some circumstances
The ships that have a TRNC flag are eligible for a 10 reduction on binding fees.
For all of these services and facilities the prices are determined in US Dollars annually. For further information you should get in touch with the Marina.

Guide to North Cyprus Phones Internet
Internet Access in Northern Cyprus
E-mail services are available from the many Internet Cafés in Kyrenia. Broadband is now widely used for personal and business use. For more information, please contact info@extendbroadband.com

Mobile phones in TRNC
Mobile phones are available on long term rental or pay-as-you-go. Currently there are two GSM operators with networks up and running in Northern Cyprus. These are Telsim and KKTC Cell which is in an extension of Turkcell. Both of these companies are based in Turkey and are Turkish companies. Visitors to the North Cyprus Island will be glad to know that these two companies have alliances with other companies worldwide and as long as you have roaming service with the company in your country of residence you will most likely be able to use your Mobile phone in North Cyprus. Please note that if you are a CDMA user there are currently no companies that operate CDMA networks in Northern Cyprus.

If you are not sure what system your local phone uses please contact your local service provider for more information. Currently there are companies that operate both GSM 900 and GSM 1800 in Northern Cyprus although GSM 900 has far greater penetration. If your phone does not support these two bands you will not be able to use your phone here, even if your company has an agreement with a North Cyprus company to conduct roaming services. If you have a quad band phone (this is a phone that supports all four scales of GSM, 850, 900, 1800, and 1900) you will be set for service in North Cyprus. Depending on where you live tri band phones can be tricky for not all of them have the same combinations.

Sim Cards
As roaming charges can be quite costly, if you are planning on staying in North Cyprus for a while or intend on making constant use of your phone you might want to by a local sim card. The local sim card will let you use your phone locally without the roaming charges, although you will also have a new phone number while you use the new sim card. Note: The gsm provider from whom you purchased your phone may have locked (branded) your phone. If this is the case you will not be able to swap sim cards unless you unlock the phone.
For up to date information on what is necessary for your roaming needs and the mobile telephony service in Northern Cyprus please click on the following link www.gsmworld.com.

Immigration and Residential Visa requirements
Residence Permit in North Cyprus
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus law states that residence permits can be applied for once you have bought your North Cyprus Home. The British Residents Society can provide you with all relevant information. When you arrive in North Cyprus, you are issued with a 3 month tourist visa. After that you must apply for a residence permit. The procedure is fairly straight forward but initially does require medical checks for HIV, Typhus etc at the hospital in Nicosia. The current cost of the residence permit is approximately £150 for your first application and then a small renewal fee in subsequent years.

The standard procedure for applying for a permit is as follows:
Basically the first step on the road to residency in North Cyprus is applying for the visa as soon as you know you're going to be in the country for more than three months. For every single day you reside in North Cyprus after your three month visitor's visa is up you will incur a fine of around YTL 66 a day (which equates to about GBP 28 per day depending on the fluctuating Lira/Sterling exchange rate), this fine will be incurred unless you have at least applied for your temporary residence visa.

This fine soon adds up and so if you know you will be in North Cyprus for more than three months apply for your temporary residency visa immediately. Those who know that they have come to live in Northern Cyprus for the rest of their days or for at least the foreseeable future cannot apply for permanent residency straight away. They too have to apply and reapply for a temporary visa for up to five years before they can get permanent residency status.

Once you have decided to apply for residency in Northern Cyprus get about 6 or 8 passport photographs and a dozen official stamps (obtainable from the Post Office) and then you will need to visit the local Muhtar (Mayor) in the area of TRNC where you are residing the Muhtar will need to see proof of your residence in the form of a rental or purchase contract as well as bank statements showing that you have sufficient money available to sustain you.

The Muhtar will provide you with a Resident's Certificate after filling in a form with information about you, your parents, and your place of residence in North Cyprus etc. Then you should go to one of a number of licenced clinics in Girne (Kyrenia), Gazimagusa or Lefkoşa (Nicosia) for a blood test. The names of Northern Cyprus clinics accepted by the immigration authorities are available from the immigration offices in Kyrenia and Nicosia. A blood sample will be taken then it's necessary to have a chest x-ray and check-up done in a licenced clinic in North Cyprus and the fees for all of these tests comes to between GBP 100 and GBP 160 per person.

The clinics where the tests are done will provide the applicant with a receipt. With the receipt, Resident's Certificate, proof of address and income, passport, more stamps, pictures and photocopies of all documents in hand the applicant should visit Immigration and apply for residency. Most offices involved in the whole process are only open between 8.30am and 12 noon. A number will be written into the applicant's passport by immigration officials and photocopies of all documents will be taken.

After about 2 weeks all the medical tests will have been completed and the applicant can pick up their results which will be in a sealed envelope. It is very important that you do not open the envelope or break the seal!!! The applicant should then hand deliver these results to Immigration in Lefkoşa and sit back and wait for all police checks to be completed and all medical results to be analysed. An applicant will have to regularly visit immigration in Lefkoşa until checks and tests are finalised and a visa can be granted. The current fee for a temporary residence visa in North Cyprus is YTL 214 but there has been talk that this may be reduced to YTL 130.

If all this sounds like too much hassle and too big a headache there are various individuals and companies based in North Cyprus who can assist for a fee. For example, Louis (based at Pegasus Restaurant) in Karaoglanoglu has helped many ex-pats with work permits, driving licences, business permits and also importing personal effects to the TRNC.

For a Permanent Residence Permit the requirements are as follows:
By law the foreign resident has to have obtained and completed a minimum of five consecutive temporary residence permits before submitting an application, which may then take a further two years before being granted.

The applicant has to have a place to live. Property ownership is required.
The applicant has to have a documented regular income.
The applicant has to be retired.

Climate and Beaches
N. Cyprus enjoys a mild climate from November to April with just a few days of rain. From May to October temperatures range from the mid 20°Cs up to the high 30°Cs with little or no rain through the summer. The sea temperature stays as high as 22°C well into November. This mild climate makes the island one of the healthiest places in the world to live.

There are numerous beaches of a high standard dotted along the beautiful coastline spanning both East and West of Kyrenia. The most popular beaches tend to be linked with Hotels where you will find lovely sandy coves which are clean and free of litter, sun beds and other facilities are available for a minimal charge. There are also a number of government run beaches which are also kept to a high standard which can be accessed free of charges whilst still providing more than adequate facilities.


Shipping Import cyprusa2z
We have much experience assisting those customers who wish to import their goods into Northern Cyprus, we work with various shipping companies who will guide you through the whole process from start to finish.

For most people it will be their first time shipping all of their worldly possessions and as such can seem quite a daunting experience, however the companies that we recommend have many years experience in international shipping and will assist you both in the UK and here in Northern Cyprus.

North Cyprus Guide to Electricity and Water
Water
Water is a precious commodity in Northern Cyprus - no different to any country which has a hot climate. In the height of summer most Councils restrict the supply of mains water during daylight hours. Although most Northern Cyprus properties are supplied with 3 ton tanks to facilitate household usage, it is recommended that a larger underground water tank is installed. It is ill advised to drink tap or well water unless it has been analysed. Septic tanks are the usual method of disposal of domestic waste and sewage, soak-aways are also used.

Electricity
In North Cyprus, voltage is 220/240 volts AC. Standard British rectangular 3-pinned plugs at 5 amps or 13 amps are used, but also some 2-pinned plugs exist. In particular most anti-mosquito machines are continental 2-pinned, so an adaptor is required and easy to purchase in Northern Cyprus. Power cuts can occur quite often. Larger hotels, restaurants, companies in North Cyprus and Northern Cyprus holiday villages operate with their own generators. A torch is a useful item to bring! To ensure a regular supply of electricity a household generator can be installed.

Payment for electricity used should be made promptly and, if a property is to be left unoccupied for a period of time, arrangements should be made with the Electricity Board or a friend to have the accounts settled otherwise the supply will be cut off.

Gas
In North Cyprus LPG gas is available by bottle. However, should you require a larger supply for items such as central heating you can have a larger tank installed in the grounds of your villa.

Postal and Telecommunication Services in Northern
The North Cyprus outgoing postal system is reliable. Incoming mail must be suffixed 'Mersin-10, Turkey' and not 'Northern Cyprus'. The history of the postal service in North Cyprus will definitely be of interest to all philatelists.

Stamps can be bought from post offices, many small shops and hotel receptions in Northern Cyprus. Mail sent to Europe should arrive in seven days. You can take mail to the post office or alternatively there are small yellow post boxes, but these are not frequently emptied. Many Northern Cyprus hotels will also post your mail if you leave it at reception.

There are postal deliveries to some local individual addresses but the more reliable method of receipt of mail is to rent a post box (P.O. Box). This facility is available in Kyrenia (Girne), Nicosia (Lefkoşa), Famagusta (Gazi Mağusa), Morphou (Güzelyurt) and a few of the surrounding villages.

North Cyprus Telecommunications
International direct dialling is possible from a private telephone; when making overseas calls one should remember to take time differences into consideration. Cheap rates are 20.00 hrs - 07.00 hrs Monday to Saturday and all day on Sunday.

To dial the U.K. from the TRNC, dial 0044 and omit 0 of the U.K. code.

To dial the TRNC from U.K., dial 0090 (392) or (533) or (542) and then the area code followed by the number required.

Telephone billing and faults repairing information is now available over the phone by dialling 163. By pressing 0090 once you are connected, you can receive the recorded message in English.

North Cyprus LifeStyle
If you are contemplating emigration to North Cyprus with your family, retiring or just changing your lifestyle and moving to Northern Cyprus to look for new opportunities, we have put together some information you may find useful to make your move with ease!

North Cyprus enjoys a typical Eastern Mediterranean climate, unspoilt natural beauty, low living costs and next to no crime. The generosity and warmth of the Turkish Cypriot people will never cease to amaze you!

If there is a subject we have not covered here or within our North Cyprus Guide pages please email us with your question and we will do our best to help you.

Major Towns
The capital of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is Lefkoşa, which is the only divided city in the world shared with Southern Cyprus (Nicosia). The other major towns are Gazi Mağusa (Famagusta), Girne (Kyrenia) and Güzelyurt (Morphou).

Population / Language in North Cyprus
According to the 2006 census estimates 210,047 people live in the TRNC, predominantly made up of Turkish Cypriots. Ethnic groups consist of British, German, Russian, French Greeks, Maronites and others.

The Official language is Turkish although English is widely used.