29/08/2008 01:50:48

• Climate
Cyprus enjoys long hot, dry summers from June to September and mild winters from November to March. These seasons are separated by a short autumn and spring season (October and April to May, respectively).

The average rainfall, on which agriculture and water supply depend, is about 20 inches (500mm) and occurs mainly in autumn and winter.

Summer temperatures range between an average maximum of 98º F (37º C) and an average minimum of 70º F (21º C). In winter they range between 59º F (15º C) and 41º F (5º C).

• Government
The government of the TRNC is a semi-presidential system made up of a President, as head of state, and a council of ministers, consisting of a Prime Minister and ten other ministers.

The President, who must be of Cypriot parentage, is elected for a five year period. Ministers are appointed by the President with the help of the Prime Minister.

• Language
Turkish is the National language. English & German are widely understood especially within the tourist industry.

• Religion
The majority of Turkish Cypriots are Muslim.

• Capital City
Lefkoşa (Nicosia).

• Area
3,355 sq km (1,295 sq miles), which is roughly 1/3 of the island.

• Population
The population of Northern Cyprus is just over 200,000. This figure includes Turkish settlers and Turkish military.

• Passports and Visas
A valid passport is necessary for entering Northern Cyprus, a visa is granted on entrance this can either be stamped into your passport or granted on a separate sheet of paper (please remember to keep this sheet of paper in your passport whilst in the country).

• Coastline
The beaches of Northern Cyprus are clean and very safe. The average water temperature is 24C between May and October. Sun loungers and beach umbrellas are available on most beaches for a small cost. Some beaches also offer water skiing, banana rides, jet-ski, wind surfing and scuba diving.

• Emergency Numbers
See Numbers

• Traffic
Traffic in Cyprus drives on the left. Road signs are easily understood (the red hexagon with the word "DUR" in it means STOP). Maximum speed is 100km./hr. Drivers are prohibited to drive under the influence of alcohol (the limit is 50 mgr). Seat belts must be worn and motorcyclist must carry a crash helmet (if the motorcycle is over 100cc).

• Car Rental
This service is available in all main towns and some hotels. A European or International Drivers License is required. Rental cars have red number plates and begin with the letter "Z".

• Drugs
It is illegal to import narcoticc to the TRNC.

• Telephone
The code for Northern Cyprus is 00 90 392 followed by the local Cypriot number. Public telephone booths are available and telephone cards can be purchased from the Telecommunications Office.

• Post
Incoming mail must be addressed to “Mersin-10, Turkey” and not “North Cyprus" or "Northern Cyprus”.

• Electricity
220/240 Volts A. A standard three pin British plug is used although a lot of appliances are supplied with two pin plugs.

• Public Transport
Buses and mini-buses (or Dolmuş) operate between all the main towns. These can be flagged down almost anywhere on route and will stop almost anywhere on request. Taxis are also widely available.

• Opening Hours
Shops (Mon-Sat)
Summer: 8:00-13:00 and 16:00-19:00
Winter: 9:00-13:00 and 14:00-18:00

Banks (Mon-Fri)
Summer: 8:00-12:00
Winter: 8:00-12:00 and 14:00-16:00

Public Services
Summer:
Monday, 07:30-14:00 and 15:30-18:00
Tuesday-Friday, 07:30-14:00

Winter
Monday-Friday, 08:00-13:00 and 14:00-17:00

• Currency
The official currency of Northern Cyprus is the Turkish Lira. Euro Cheques, Traveller's Cheques, Euros, Sterling, Cyprus Pounds, Dollars and other major currencies are accepted.

• Public Holidays
1 January, New Year’s Day
23 April, Children’s Day
1 May, Labour Day
19 May, Youth and Sports Day
20 July, Peace and Freedom Day
30 August, Victory Day
29 October, Turkish Republic Day
15 November, Northern Cyprus Republic Day