Cyprus

An island unlike any other..

Cyprus enjoys a unique position at the strategic crossroads between Europe, Asia and Africa. Repeatedly invaded throughout its history, exquisite influences and traces of various civilizations are plain to see throughout the island. Situated 65 km from Turkey’s southern coast and neighbouring Syria (97 km), Lebanon (108 km), Egypt (370 km), Israel and Greece, this country with its curious combination of ancient civilization and young economy is truly the last untouched piece of the Mediterranean.

The island's leadership has recognized and sought to utilize the potential power of this small country: its incredible beaches, rural charm, ecological richness and diversity have all been harnessed and put in the hands of an eager and industrious population to great effect. As a result, Cyprus offers the visitor and investor a genuinely satisfying experience. With virtually no crime to speak of, as well as unlimited international investment, Cyprus is an incredible mixture of cultures with busy towns minutes away from idyllic, unspoiled havens. Its unique and rich history combine to reward visitors and investors alike and yet, despite offering all the mod cons wanted by today’s modern traveller, the country retains an unexpected air of another age. Warm hospitality and friendliness are the norm, the pace of life relaxed. Cyprus is a unique blend of its history and offers a distinct alternative to the usual Mediterranean getaway.

You can reach Cyprus by air from all major UK airports. Both Larnaca and Paphos are well served with regular, inexpensive flights. Nicosia is just 45 minutes away from Larnaca airport.

Once here, it is a good idea to hire a car as the public transport system is quite basic and as in the UK, driving is on the left. Road signs are international.

Passports and Visas

General EU conditions apply to Cyprus with no visa required for up to a 90 day stay.

The citizens of Non EU countries are required to have return tickets.

The citizens of United Kingdom, USA, Canada, Mexico, Malta, Japan, Switzerland, Norway, Israel, Australia and New Zealand do not require a visa to enter Cyprus. All other nationals should check their status with regard to visas with the nearest Embassy.

The Euro is now the legal tender of Cyprus, replacing the Cyprus Pound at the beginning of 2008. There are banks and ATMs in every town. EU regulations cover the import and export of currency.

When in Cyprus you can pay with UK sterling, Cyprus pounds, US dollars and euros. Cash is available from an ever-increasing number of ATM machines. Credit cards are widely accepted as are travellers cheques which are also easily exchanged.

Banking in Cyprus has evolved rapidly in recent years. Branches of most major banks can be found in Nicosia, Larnaca and Paphos and the Greek and local banks are well regulated. Opening an account is easy and, due to a massive increase in demand, many banks offer services outside the typical remit of small island bank: insurance, hire purchase finance, investment and consulting as well as asset management services. Internet banking is also the norm.

Tipping

In more expensive restaurants, tipping is customary. Even if a service charge is added to your bill, you're expected to give around 5% to the waiter directly and perhaps the same amount to the maitre d’. Porters expect a euro; in taxis you might like to round up the bill; in other situations, for example, helpful tour guides or the hamam masseur, use your discretion.

Cyprus enjoys a superb climate which makes the island one of the healthiest places in the world in which to live. A long, hot summer and a relatively dry, short winter mean that year-round, outdoor living is entirely possible. Spring and autumn are virtually non-existent. The country enjoys approximately 330 days of sunshine annually, and the lowest sea temperature is rarely below 16°C (61ºF). Hottest in July and August, the temperature easily tops 40°C (105ºF). Winters are mild with some rain and with skiing available in the Trodos Mountains.

Telephones

Country Dialing Codes:
00 + 357

Telecard or coin-operated public telephones are installed at various central locations in towns and villages.

Landline services can be temperamental in Cyprus but mobile coverage is excellent.

You can buy a cheap, local SIM card for your mobile phone to let you use your phone locally without the roaming charges. Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies.

There are several internet service providers in Cyprus offering a variety of options, including broadband. Depending on where you live there are different options available to you. If you are lucky enough to have a land line, you will be able to connect to the Internet using one of the many Internet Service Providers, although you will be constrained by dial up speeds

Power

Mains power 240/415 volts AC. 50Hz. Plugs are usually English standard although it is a good idea to bring an adaptor with you. Power cuts are the norm so it is a good idea to unplug any electrical item when not in use in order to protect them from the inevitable power surges.

Although Cyprus may be small in size, it certainly packs a punch in terms of activities on offer to visitors. Whether you’re after an action-packed surge of adrenaline or prefer to explore quiet, beautiful beaches and stunning slices of history, you’ll find pretty much everything you need here on this little island. Recreational activities have generally centred around Cyprus’ biggest asset, its natural beauty. Caving, paragliding, deep sea fishing and water sports as well as hill walking, mountain biking and quad biking have long been on offer. However, recent increases in international investment have had the dual effect of boosting the options available to the visitor to Cyprus as well as streamlining the quality of those on offer. The true value of the miles of deserted sandy beaches, ancient towns, basilicas, ruins and tombs waiting to be explored has suddenly been recognised by local government and entrepreneurs alike. As such, the beaches are clean, the ruins protected and yet, best of all, prices remain low and the warm hospitality constant. The country’s infrastructure is constantly being improved, with a huge focus on the tourist: a number of new Golf Courses are being built and planned. Action-packed or restful, young or old, whatever your needs, Cyprus really can meet them all.

Exploring Cyprus, once you are away from the main tourist towns in the South, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you had stepped back in time. Seeming to have quite literally sidestepped the frenzy and influences of modern life, villages around the Karpaz ‘pan handle’ are about as picture perfect idyllic as it gets in the Mediterranean. Olive and carob trees, orchards and palms are dotted with wild donkeys and flowers. Ancient ruins crumble quietly in the fields against a backdrop of minarets studding the majestic Trodos Mountain Range.

Influenced by many, many cultures, including the Assyrian, Egyptian, Persian and Byzantine dynasties, Cyprus retains aspects of all and yet has managed to carve out its own identity. In the South, the busy bars and clubs mingle with top class spas and resorts. A bustling arts and music scene, together with great international restaurants and bars, good communication services and beaches to die for make for a Mediterranean hotspot with a palpable buzz in the air.

People often think that Cypriot cuisine is simply Greek. The truth couldn’t be more different. Cypriot cuisine has been influenced by different cultures throughout history and therefore there simply is no such thing as a ‘typical’ Cypriot dish. While the ingredients may be similar, the outcome of a particular delicacy will vary according to where and by whom it is cooked. The many ‘mezes’ or little starters, usually offered before the main meal are quite literally innumerable: fresh mushrooms, aubergine, humous, olives, cracked wheat, grilled cheese, the list is endless, as is the number of ways in which they are prepared and presented. Meat plays a large role in Cypriot cuisine, whether as kebabs, stuffed vegetable dishes, fish or the typical kleftiko (oven, slow-baked lamb or chicken) but there is plenty for the vegetarian. Sweets and desserts play an important role in Cypriot cuisine and are often very, very sweet and sticky but always uniquely delicious. As for what to drink, do as the locals do and enjoy a glass of aniseed-imbued grappa or a brandy sour. Alternatively, local beer or a yoghurt drink, often mixed with mint) are good choices. Cypriot coffee is unique: small and very strong, prepared according taste. A word of warning, though: beware the sludge at the bottom of the cup!

Free or reduced-cost necessary treatment is available to European residents, in most cases on production of a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Health care in Cyprus is of moderate standard, with both government hospitals and private clinics, the latter often operated by English speaking and English or American trained staff. The State Hospitals are reasonably well equipped, with other smaller hospitals around the island. Fees and prices for medications and treatment vary wildly so make sure you have international medical insurance. Most prescription drugs are available over the counter and pharmacies are often well-stocked with a wide range of additional items such as cosmetics, sun care and baby items. Dental and eye services and treatments are of a particularly high standard in Cyprus, with high quality frames and lenses widely and cheaply available.

No inoculations are needed, although mosquitoes can still be an irritation in summer. Help prevent mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and trousers in the evening; use mosquito repellents on exposed areas.

Bottled water is recommended for drinking.

Personal effects

With the right people assisting you, purchasing an overseas property can be an enjoyable and rewarding affair ... one, we at Property Club International are familiar with. If you still have questions having read this section, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

Some of the information in the information sections has been supplied by third parties, and Property Club International and its associated companies cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Professional advice should always be sought at the time of purchase.