About Northern Cyprus

What is the time difference between the UK and Cyprus?
Cyprus is +2 hours ahead of British GMT.

How do I get to Northern Cyprus?
There are daily scheduled flights from major UK airports (including Heathrow, Stansted and Manchester) and other European destinations to Ercan Airport in Northern Cyprus. Similarly there are daily scheduled flights to Larnaca and Paphos International airports in Southern Cyprus (many car hire companies offer transfer services from the South to the North for an additional fee).

What is the local currency?
Turkish Lira (YTL), however the British Pound (GBP), Euro (EUR), and the US dollar (USD) are widely accepted in most places. Credit cards are becoming more widely accepted throughout Northern Cyprus, however you should check before use as commission charges can be high.

Are there are any visa requirements?
A valid passport is required and upon arrival you will be granted with a 3 month visa. Should you decide to stay for longer you will need to extend your visa or apply for residency within the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

Do we need to make a Will when the property is completed?
Yes, you must have a Will drawn up in Northern Cyprus (Wills drawn up in the UK will not be accepted). This can be done on completion of your property.

Can we use our own UK solicitor?
No. You must employ the services of a solicitor based in Northern Cyprus. Please contact us for further information.

Can I drive with a British license?
Yes, and as per UK driving regulations people in Northern Cyprus drive on the left. You can drive with your British license for 3 months, after which you will need to apply for a TRNC license.

Is Northern Cyprus safe?
With very little crime, Northern Cyprus is considered extremely safe for all age groups.

Can I bring my pet?
Yes. As long you obtain the correct documentation from your vet in your country of origin. There is also a quarantine period on the island for all animals brought into the country so please consult with your vet for more information.

What are the Medical facilities like?
The main state hospital is in Nicosia and there are other smaller ones in Kyrenia, Famagusta, Guzelyurt, and Lefke. There are also clinics in smaller towns and some villages. Private medical care is widely available and there are several companies that provide private health insurance.

Where are the best beaches?
Northern Cyprus has numerous sandy beaches, however Golden Beach located in the Karpaz region is world famous. The 7km long stretch of beach is truly breathtaking.

What is the climate like?
Northern 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 temperature is around 10°C, with a winter average of 6 hours daily sunshine and only moderate rain, making it an ideal year round destination.

What is the Postal service like?
The postal service in Northern Cyprus is reasonably fast and efficient. Please note that to receive mail from overseas, letters and parcels must be addressed "Mersin 10 - Turkey" at the bottom of the address.

What are the Telephone and Internet services like?
Local mobile "pay as you go" services are widely available through service providers such as Turkcell and Telsim. Wireless Internet and 3G services are also rapidly expanding and there are many local providers to choose from depending on usage levels. ADSL is also available in most areas.

What time do the shops open?
Shops generally open from 8am to 1pm and 3.30pm to 6.30pm in summer. In winter, hours are similar without closing at lunch-time.

What is the food like?
Cypriot cuisine owes its heritage to a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. 'Meze' is not to be missed and it consists of a wide variety of delicious hot and cold dishes (comprising salads, meats, vegetables, fish and more!). Meze is served as an appetiser or as a main course.