GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT CYPRUS

Area :	9,251 sq Km. The third largest island in the Meditterranean, Cyprus streaches 150 miles(240 Km) from the West coast to its eastermost tip and 60 miles (96 km) from North to South.
Population :	The population of Cyprus is approximately 760.000
Languages :	Greek, most people can speak English, also hotel staff can speak French, German and Russian.
Visa :	Not required for US or Commonwealth citizens for stays under 3 months.
Currency :	Cyprus Pound (1 CYP= 100 Cents) Exchange Rates For US : UK : DM :
Weights :	Kg
Measures :	Metric Units
Power Supply :	240V A C throughout the island, Sockets outlets and sockets of flat 3 pin type are used.

The Country Cyprus's landscape is one of infinite contrasts, from its fertile central plain to the cool vine-clad foothills; the majesty of the cedar valley in which wild indigenous moufflon roam; mile after mile of sandy shores with secluded beaches to seek out, and hundreds of villages to expore each with its own tradition and charm. There are six major towns Nicosia, the capital situated inland in the middle of the Mesaoria plain, and the 5 coastal towns of Limassol, Larnaca, Pafos, Kyrenia, and Famagusta. The latter two, in the north nad east respectively, have been under Turkish occupation since 1974 and are inaccessible to visitors. Nicosia has been the capital of Cyprus for 1000 years since the 10th century. The origins of Nicosia date from the Bronze Age and it has had a tumultuous history. The Mycenaeans brought their civilisation here, establishing the first Greek roots, thousands of years ago. Many others passed through, including Phoenician, Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians, Romans, Crusaders, Venetians, Ottomans and the British. The disciples of Christ walked this land. The splendour of Byzantium, founded by Constantine The Great at Constantinople, encompassed the island of Cyprus. The Lusignans made Nicosia a magnificent city with a Royal Palace and about fifty churches. The climate of Cyprus never fails to delight her visitors and every season has a charm and beauty of its own. In summer, sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters beckon swimmers and provide the perfect conditions for sailing, skiing and all watersports under the sun. Yet a complete contrast awaits in the cool, pine covered mountains of Troodos, with delightful hill resorts. As the land mellows in autumn there is a wonderful clarity of air on those balmy days, still warmed by the brilliant Cyprus sun. The sea temperature is still high after the long hot summer and for some this is the best season of all The Cyprus winter is short and mild, with average daytime temperatures around 16 C. This season brings some much-needed rain to the land, but most of its days are bright and sunny. And there is a short snow season on the mountains from January to March, with fun to be had by all ages from tobogganers to serious skiers. During winter one is able to bask on a sandy beach and within an hour embark on a skiing adventure in the Troodos mountains. In springtime, the island takes on an enchanting beauty. The countryside is set ablaze as glorious wild flowers and fragrant blossoms burst into life to delight the eye with their stunning colours. Bright poppies, yellow daisies and pastel anemonies present their myriad colours in the fields. Meanwhile prickly broom and rockroses decorate the hillsides, peonies start appearing on the mountains, and everywhere the heady scent of orange blossom pervades the air. In fact with 1500 different species of flowers, Cyprus is a paradise for nature lovers. As the days lengthen and the sun gathers strength. Cyprus enters an idyllic season for walks, leisurely picnics and the fascinating contemplation of nature, not forgetting, of course, swimming and sunbathing.

FLYING TIMES Cities         Hours London 5 Amsterdan, Paris, Stockhuolm 4 1/2 Frankfurt, Berlin 4 Moscow, Rome 3 1/2 Bahrain 2 1/2 Athens 1 1/2

QUICK INFORMATION - TIPS

Driving is on the left side of the road. "Lefkaritika" is the local embroidery. "Commandaria" is the local sweet fortified. "Halloumi" is the local cheese. "Koulouri" is the typical sesame bread, excellent with grean olives. More than 30 airlines connect Cyprus directly with most European and Middle East countries. On Sundays petrol stations are open on a rotation basis. Most petrol stations provide twenty-four hours service either by attendance service or by pay-terminals. Handshake is usual.

Centrally located banks offer special afternoon facilities for tourists. Cyprus is a member of the Commonwealth. Avoid Shorts and wear suitable clothing when you are visiting churches and Monasteries. A Greek Drama in an ancient theater is a memorable experience. Between 13:00-16:00 hrs is siesta-time in summer.(May-Sept) Do not forget your sunglasses while in Cyprus. They are indispensable due to the intense brightness of our sunshine.