ANCIENT CYPRUS

Cyprus is an island that has been inhabited for over 9,000 years, from the Neolithic Stone Age to the civilised 21st century, mankind has walked this fertile land. Early settlers most probably came from nearby countries, with Turkey only 40 miles away the journey would not have been difficult. Artefacts found in Neolithic settlements have clear links with similar finds on the mainland and there are many villages of the period dotted across the island.

During the Chalcolithic period (3900-2600BC) copper was discovered and found to be a durable and exportable commodity. It was during this time that the trade routes, which were to be so important in future centuries, were established. With the Early and Middle Bronze Ages came the development of the first real towns and commercial centres, and due to trade, cultural relations with neighbouring countries improved. There was a steady influx of immigrants from nearby lands among them the Myceneans who developed trading cities around the island, such as Enkomi in the north and Paphos in the south. They brought with them Greek cultural methods and started producing decorative pottery not just for the home market but also for export.

The Iron Age coincided with a slowing down in commercial growth and a dispersal of the peoples. Those that continued to live on Cyprus carried on their traditions until they were given a boost by the arrival of the Phoenicians. Links with the Orient were made, the economy grew and religion started to change. Worship of the Mycenean Horned God was replaced by the cult of Astarte, Goddess of Fertility. She in time was replaced by Aphrodite, always considered to be a native of Cyprus. In the following centuries, the island came under the domination of many foreign powers mostly from the Near East. Dues were paid to Assyria, Egypt and Persia. It was during the control by the Persian Empire that many of the city-kingdoms were permitted to mint their own coinage.

During the Classical Period (475-325BC) the Cypriot people attempted to rebel against Persian rule but were for the most part defeated. It was not until the arrival of Evagoras who claimed the Kingdom of Salamis that the yoke of Persia was thrown off. However, Evagoras successfully developed good trading relations with Persia and Salamis became a powerful commercial city.

Prosperity through trade continued to grow throughout the Hellenistic and Roman periods until the decline in fortunes of the Roman Empire. It was not to recover until Constantine the Great pulled the Western Empire together under Christian rule and thus Cyprus became part of Byzantium.

CYPRUS IN THE MIDDLE AGES

As a commercial centre Cyprus was important enough for the Emperor Justinian to have it classified as a province of the Empire and it continued to grow wealthy.

In the 7th C AD marauding Islamic hordes plundered many of the cities, sacking, looting and burning as they went. Many beautiful Christian buildings were destroyed and whole townships abandoned. The raids lasted for over two hundred years and the Cypriot people were obliged to pay taxes to whichever Caliph was in power, and to Constantinople. This injustice continued until the Byzantine Emperor defeated the Arabs and made the island secure once again.

The last Byzantine ruler of the island was the self-styled Emperor of Cyprus Isaac Comnenus who had usurped power from Constantinople during the chaos that followed the fall of Jerusalem to Saladin in 1187. After eight years of despotic rule, he made a grave political error by attempting to capture Berengaria of Navarre when her ship was driven onto the shores near Limassol during a storm. As a foreign princess, she should have been offered courtesy, instead of which she received only insults. Her future husband Richard I king of England came to her rescue, snatched the island from the usurper, sent Isaac into exile and married his bride in Limassol castle in May 1191.

Delighted as he was to find a treasury full of gold, Richard had no use for the island and sold it to the Knights Templar. Then with his newfound and much-needed wealth he continued on his third crusade to retake Jerusalem. It was not long before the Templars discovered that the Cypriot people were not prepared to put up with another regime of harsh rule and went into hostile rebellion. With their resources already stretched by the crusade, the Templars requested that king Richard relieve them of the island. As some small recompense for the loss of Jerusalem, Richard handed the island over to Guy of Lusignan and thus began 300 years of French rule.

Initially being ruled by a dynasty from France was no more beneficial to the Cypriot people than the previous rule. It introduced a feudal system that gave power to the barons who had supported Guy during his battles in the Holy Land. However some local laws and customs were retained and gradually peace among the people was restored. Guy was never crowned as king of Cyprus, it was his brother Amalric who succeeded him in 1194 who was granted the Crown of Cyprus by the Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV in 1197.

Tenaciously, the Kings of Cyprus continued to hold on to the title of King of Jerusalem long after all hope of regaining that Kingdom was lost, and they were crowned (in absentia) in the great Cathedral of St. Nicholas in Famagusta.

The Orthodox religion was oppressed and the number of Orthodox Bishops was reduced. Though not totally forbidden the faith was pushed out into the less wealthy areas and the revenues amassed by the Orthodox Church were re-allocated to the Church of Rome.

Religious suppression angered the endemic Cypriots who mistrusted their new overlords, and the continuing contrast in lifestyles with the building of flamboyant abbeys and churches demonstrated the increasing divide between the two distinctly differing peoples. However over the next three centuries, this was to change and ultimately Cyprus and her people derived great benefit from the period of French rule.

Although there were times when foreign powers cast envious eyes on the realm of Cyprus resulting in attempts to take the island, there were also periods of great peace. There were enlightened rulers such as Hugh III, who encouraged the widespread interest in cultural reform and promotion of the arts. His court was known throughout Europe for its brilliance and his reign was spent mostly in the country not journeying about other countries of the Mediterranean, a fact that endeared him to the Cypriots.

However the next monarchs were not so lucky and their reigns were marred by interfamily feuds. Relative calm was restored by Hugh IV, who though somewhat an intolerant monarch, was a man who loved beautiful things and it was during his rule that the final additions to Bellapais Abbey were made.

In 1359 Peter I came to the throne and started his rule well. However after only seven years his reign started to decline; his trusted advisers died and he was at the mercy of the barons who undermined him and his evil Queen, Eleanor. She eventually succeeded in having him assassinated and became co-regent with her brothers in law until her infant king Peter II attained his majority. During the coronation of Peter II, a long-brewing feud between Venetian and Genoese nobles erupted and developed into full-scale war. The Genoese landed in force in 1373 and plundered many of the cities, churches and abbeys. They took and held Famagusta and captured James the Constable, who had been one of the co-regents, and held him prisoner.

The hapless young king was completely controlled by his mother who succeeded in having her other co-regent Prince John, murdered. Peter II died without issue, James still imprisoned by the Genoese became heir and managed to raise the ransom for his release. He reorganised the kingdom and was succeed by his son Janus. The country was once more prospering when in 1426 Egypt invaded and the island was controlled by a foreign power.

The next sixty years saw a sad decline in the monarchy as French rule came to an end. The last Lusignan monarch was James II who succeeded in driving the Genoese out of Famagusta with financial help from Venice. He married a Venetian, Catherine Cornaro and died in somewhat suspicious circumstances leaving his widow to rule. His posthumous son died at a year old and Catherine ruled for thirteen years until the persuasive powers of her native Venice became too much for her and she abdicated the throne in 1489.

For the next eighty years, Cyprus became a Venetian stronghold. The towns, cities and coastal fortifications were strengthened against the growing might of the Ottoman Empire. All their efforts to make the island safe against further invasions were in vain when the Ottoman forces landed at Larnaca in 1570 and rapidly took Nicosia in a swiftly savage siege. Kyrenia gave in without a shot being fired, leaving the last major city Famagusta to be conquered. The taking of Famagusta took ten long months, during which the Ottoman forces suffered tremendous losses at the hands of the small but brave force within the city walls led by Marc Antonio Bragadino. Courage and bravery were insufficient when the city ran out of supplies and Bragadino was forced to surrender.

OTTOMAN RULE IN CYPRUS

With the total island now conquered, the new Ottoman rulers made changes that the Orthodox Cypriots welcomed. The churches were handed back to their former owners, Catholics, long hated by the Orthodox faith were expelled and many of the Catholic churches became mosques.

The population of the island was increased by settlement from the mainland of Turks who were promised gifts of land by the Sultan. However there were still taxes to be paid and financially the people did not find themselves much better off. Corruption in Government was rife, poverty and famine wreaked havoc, and a great plague in the mid 17th century decimated the population.

Taxes were reduced and the Ottoman authority appointed the Orthodox Archbishop as the representative of the people. Thus tax collecting was put into the hands of the church, a system that worked for a short while until greed got the upper hand, once again reducing the peasants to penury.

The Russian Empire was slowly chipping away at its common borders with Ottoman possessions and the British Government was asked for help in stopping further incursions. A deal was brokered between the Sultan and Benjamin Disraeli which permitted control of Cyprus by the British Government which in turn would continue to pay taxes to the Sultan. It was expedient for Britain to control the island because the Suez canal had opened in 1869 and it was feared Russia would try to take it and command the newly opened trade route.

CYPRUS IN THE 1900'S

The British undertook many reforms that benefited the island, new roads and bridges were built, water pipelines for the villages, and crop irrigation were installed, a railway was constructed to link Famagusta, Nicosia and Guzelyurt. With the outbreak of the first world war, Turkey joined forces with Germany and Cyprus was annexed to the British Crown. In 1915 Britain offered the island to Greece if they would agree to fight with the Allies. Greece declined the offer. In 1925 the island became a crown colony under the control of a governor.

Enosis, (union with Greece) which would have been automatic if Greece had accepted the offer of the island in 1915 became of great importance. There were riots in 1931 and Government house was burnt to the ground. With the onset of the second world war, Cypriots both Turkish and Greek fought in the British armed forces. At the end of the war the call for Enosis was renewed. In 1950 Archbishop Makarios called for a vote of the people on the subject of enosis and over 95 percent voted in favour. The British were not prepared to relinquish the island at the time and the battle for self rule was led by the EOKA rebel leader George Grivas with the blessing of Makarios.

Despite the request for Enosis being outlawed and Makarios being sent into exile, Greece applied to the United Nations for the right to self-government, the Turkish Cypriot minority were not taken into account as they were not considered of any importance. An eventual solution was reached and the London Accord that granted the island its independence was signed in 1959, with the Republic of Cyprus becoming an actuality in 1960.

EOKA (Ethniki Organosis Kyprion Agoniston)

EOKA [Ethniki Organosis Kyprion Agoniston - National Organization of Cypriot Fighters] started a guerrilla campaign against British colonial rule aimed at self-determination and union with Greece (Enosis)on 01 April 1955. The campaign, which started when the first EOKA bombs exploded at 00.30 hours on 1st of April 1955, lasted until 1959 and caused the death of more Greek Cypriot civilians than the total of British killed. It created civil strife and mistrust between the two Cypriot communities. Tension increased in early 1957, when EOKA attacked Turkish police and auxiliaries. EOKA received direct support from Greece in money, arms, organization and propaganda. Greek-speaking Cypriots were awed by EOKA terrorists and subject to bombardment by Athens radio. Under a 1959 compromise settlement known as Zurich-London agreements, Cyprus became an independent Republic in 1960. Since then, April 1 is a national holiday. It was celebrated in memorial services in Churches and gatherings in cities and villages in the free part of Cyprus.

EOKA-B emerged twice, in 1963 and 1974, in collaboration and cooperation with Greece, to attack the Turkish Cypriots, one of the two co-founding partners of the Republic of Cyprus, with the aim of uniting the Island with Greece. Between 1969 and 1971, several groups embarked on a renewed terrorist campaign for enosis. Grivas returned clandestinely to Cyprus sometime in the late summer or early fall of 1971 and set up a new guerilla organization, the national Organizaiton of Cypriot Fighters (Ethniki Organosis Kyprion Agonistm B-EOKA B). Most members of the terrorist movement held regular jobs in the Greek Cypriot community; half were police officials and members of the National Guard.

There was also considerable evidence of support of EOKA B activities by the Greek junta, whose hostility to Makarios became increasingly apparent during the early 1970s. The junta was believed to be involved in several attempts on the life of President Makarios. In March 1970, Makarios narrowly escaped death when his helicopter was shot down. Makarios walked away from the crash, but his pilot was killed. Former minister of the interior Polykarpos Georkajis, in contact with local right-wing groups and the junta in Athens, was thought to be implicated, and was assassinated shortly afterward. A paramilitary presidential guard loyal to Makarios, called the Tactical Police Reserve, was organized in 1972. Consisting of fewer than 1,000 men, the Tactical Police Reserve succeeded in arresting large numbers of EOKA B guerrillas. In a further attempt to bring subversive forces under control, Makarios dismissed many National Guard and police officers suspected of EOKA B activity.

Since this time the island has remained divided. On the 15th November 1983 The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was founded. It is a fully democratic state and with exception of a few border incidents, internal peace has been established.

PEACE ON THE ISLAND

UN-led talks on the status of Cyprus resumed in December 1999 to prepare the ground for meaningful negotiations leading to a comprehensive settlement. Efforts to reunite the island under a federal structure continue, however, under the auspices of the United Nations. As Cyprus planned to join the European Community in May 2004, there were renewed negotiations about the status of the Island. In December 2003, the borders between the two parts of Cyprus were partly opened, numerous Greek Cypriots visited the north, and labour migration of Turkish Cypriots to the south, especially Nicosia began.

A referendum on the Annan Plan, a United Nations proposal for reunification was placed before both communities in April, 2004. The plan was rejected by the Greek Cypriots while approved by the Turkish Cypriots but required the approval of both sides to succeed.

Proposal of the Annan Plan: The Annan Plan had undergone five revisions in order to reach its final version. The 5th revision of the Annan Plan proposed the creation of the United Cyprus Republic, covering the island of Cyprus in its entirety except for the British Sovereign Base Areas. This new country was to be a federation of two constituent states – the Greek Cypriot State and the Turkish Cypriot State – joined together by a federal government apparatus.

This federal level, purported to be loosely based on the Swiss federal model, would have incorporated the following elements:

• A collective Presidential Council, made up of six voting members, allocated according to population (per present levels, four Greek Cypriots and two Turkish Cypriots), and selected and voted in by parliament. An additional three non-voting members would be assigned 2:1.

• A President and Vice President, chosen by the Presidential Council from among its members, one from each community, to alternate in their functions every 20 months during the council's five-year term of office.

• A bicameral legislature:

• A Senate (upper house), with 48 members, divided 24:24 between the two communities.

• A Chamber of Deputies (lower house), with 48 members, divided in proportion to the two communities' populations (with no fewer than 12 for the smaller community).

• A Supreme Court composed of equal numbers of Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot judges, plus three foreign judges; to be appointed by the Presidential Council.

The plan included a federal constitution, constitutions for each constituent state, a string of constitutional and federal laws, and a proposal for a United Cyprus Republic flag and a national anthem. It also provided for a Reconciliation Commission to bring the two communities closer together and resolve outstanding disputes from the past. It would also have established a limited right to return between the territories of the two communities, and it would have allowed both Greece and Turkey to maintain a permanent military presence on the island, albeit with large, phased reductions in troop numbers.

In February, 2008, the election of a new president in the Republic of Cyprus brought a new boost to the peace process, and a final settlement of "The Cyprus Problem" looked closer than it had for a long time. Soon afterwards, the Lokmaci/Ledra Street crossing in central Nicosia was opened to much jubilation, forty years after its closing. In July of that year, the two presidents issued a joint statement committing themselves to a solution of the Cyprus problem. A further statement in December of 2009 indicated hopes of a settlement by the end of 2010.

Things slowed down for a while at the start of 2010 because of elections in Northern Cyprus, and in April a new leader was elected. Although a known hard liner, the new leader, Mr Ergolu, assured the United Nations that the talks would continue, which they have done.

In the Autumn of 2010, a further crossing point was opened between Yesilirmak (Limnitis) and Kato Pyrgos in the far west of the island. There is also a strong movement from both sides of the divide to open further crossings south of Lefke, and east of Nicosia. Since the new set of talks started in 2008, the two leaders have had 88 meetings up till the end of November 2010. Movement, however, has been painfully slow, with both sides blaming the other and there being selective leeks to the press to prove their case.

2013: Current president of the Republic of Cyprus, Nicos Anastasiades has taken the position. 2015: Mustafa Akinci, the current president of Northern Cyprus hold office in April for a five-year term. Both leaders have positive expectations towards Cyprus problem solution and collaboration on brining unity to the island.

Cyprus belongs to the warmest zones of the Mediterranean Sea. Mediterranean climate with crystal clear sea, hot dry summers and mild winters make it an ideal holiday destination in the world. The island is a friendly vacation place for all sun lovers because Cyprus has approximately 320 sunny days annually for the entire year.

Climatically Cyprus is one of the healthiest regions of the world. What you can experience is beautiful sunrises and sunsets on Cyprus island, vacation in Cyprus is possible in every season.

North Cyprus enjoys a climate with long warm and dry summers from mid May to mid October and mild wet winters from December to February. Autumn and Spring seasons in Northern Cyprus are short and relatively dry with occasional winds.M

Weather in coastal parts of North Cyprus such as Kyrenia and Famagusta is much milder compared to inland, due to the sea breeze and humidity of the Mediterranean. The sea temperature itself never falls below below 16º C in January and February, reaching it’s maximum of 27º C during the month of August.

Summers

During summer weather in North Cyprus, which starts from mid-May and lasts till mid-September the sun shines on an average 11 hours a day, and during this time the temperatures can reach up to 40º C! The skies remain clear and cloudless with low humidity between 40 - 60 %, making high temperatures easy to bear.

Winters

North Cyprus winters are mild and occasionally wet due to small depressions prevailing during the winter months with 60 % of rain falling between December and February. Frost and snow are almost unknown in North Cyprus, although night temperatures can fall to low levels in winter, specially during the month of January.

Cyprus belongs to the warmest zones of the Mediterranean Sea. Mediterranean climate with crystal clear sea, hot dry summers and mild winters make it an ideal holiday destination in the world. The island is a friendly vacation place for all sun lovers because Cyprus has approximately 320 sunny days annually for the entire year.

Cypriots will not feel offended if visitors don’t necessarily understand basic rituals on visiting someone's house for example, but you will gain more respect by having made some effort. When meeting someone it’s usual to shake hands, smile and look them in the eye then later say a separate goodbye to each guest. Remove shoes before entering a house or mosque as people used to sit on carpets on the floor. Take a small gift of cakes or sweets and, if flowers, don’t take funeral lilies. On a brief visit you may be offered tea or coffee and offered ‘macun’, preserved fruit. If someone suggests reading coffee grains at the bottom of your coffee cup, turn the cup upside down onto the saucer to be read. Tavli, like backgammon, is the usual game played in coffee houses.

Museums and art galleries are good places to gain an insight to a culture as are local festivals. Festivals are ideal events to enjoy real local culture first hand. Folk dancing depicting the story of everyday life, the girls more sedate than the boys showing off their skills. The blue eye (nazar boncuk), seen hanging in doorways, on clothes, in cars and jewellery is to ward off evil looks and spirits. Handicrafts include Lefkara lace work, from the Venetians era, for bedspreads and tablecloths etc. Weave a wicker basket with bamboo or knit (weave) a wicket tray ‘sesta’ from dyed straw, reeds and grasses, easily confused terms but articles from either make a great gift. Good buys are Kilims, small colourful rugs, silk pictures and brooches. Festivals are also ideal times to try Turkish Cypriot food. Its mix of Mediterranean, Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine dishes and take-away conjures up a whole new meaning.

Traditions and Customs

Cypriots are very proud of their cultural heritage, which stretches back more than 9000 years. However, you'll probably find that Cyprus today is more concerned with the events of the last 20 years than those of a millennium ago. The north of the island is busy re-creating itself in the image of Turkey, changing names to Turkish and embracing the life and culture of its northern neighbour.

The traditions and customs of a culture can best be observed in ceremonies and on special occasions. Between the Turkish Cypriot community, some of these are wedding ceremonies, feast days (Ramazan), birth, children starting school, etc. Another important characteristic of the Turkish Cypriots is their hospitality. In the past, the importance of the guest was relative to their social status and their age. Serving the guests usually started with coffee or sherbets, especially those of honey, rose and carob. Fruit paste serving was also of importance.

Cypriot culture is also reflected in the rich folk art of the island. Age-old crafts, handed down from one generation to another, are faithfully carried on to this day by skilful hands and nimble fingers, fashioning handicrafts, both decorative and useful, that would grace any home.

Carnival is one of the best known Cypriot and throughout the year there are also exhibitions, concerts, drama and folk festivals.

Whatever the present-day situation may be, Cyprus is littered with reminders of the island's history. Many villages specialize in a particular art form, and as you travel around Cyprus you'll see pottery, silver and copperware, basket weaving, tapestry and Lefkara's famous lacework.

Turkish Cypriot Family

Between Turkish Cypriots, family life is very important, so they spend most of their free time with family gatherings, picnics, barbeques and weddings. The Turkish Cypriot family structure is that of the ex tender family which consists of three generations of people living close to eacother. The influence of the family on individuals is immeasurable. Although the island has undergone many social changes in recent times, the traditional family structure in Cyprus remains the same. Turkish Cypriot families are patriarchal and male dominance is the norm. Men are expected to provide for the family while women are responsible for housework and childcare. If men do assist with household chores it is viewed as a bonus.

Religious festivals are another important family event. Long lost cousins and distant family members gather together to eat, drink and laugh together. Children are treated to new clothes for these festivals and receive large gifts of money to spend as they wish. Food is the main focus of family gatherings at Bayram and everyone contributes by cooking savouries and desserts to share with one another. In fact the kitchen table is the heart of the family home in North Cyprus. People in Cyprus enjoy eating together and there is never a shortage of food in the home. Women usually cook more than the necessary amount of food in case an unexpected member of the family or a friend visit.

Festivals

North Cyprus is becoming a generous host to many cultural events. The island has started to host many cultural events over the past few years. They are generally held at historical sites such as Bellapais abbey, Kyrenia castle, Salamis Ampitheatre and Othello's Tower, such events have always attracted wide interest and you can come across cultural activities almost every weekend making it possible for visitors to experience such culture.

During the spring months of April and May Bellapais Abbey plays host to an array of celebrated musicians all over the world.

Another city beginning to make a name for hosting music activities in Famagusta. It is possible to listen to many mucisians courtesy of Famagusta municipality's annual music festival. Apart from the packed festival programme there are individual events to entertain music lovers.

Hamam

Ottoman Turks built many public baths in major towns on the island. There are separate baths for men and women. After entering the hamam wrapped in a towel you go to a large heated headstone in the middle where one perspires and is rubbed down by a bath attendant. This method of bathing is supposed to be refreshing and many of the old marble baths are architecturally interesting.

North Cyprus Folk Dancing

From the beginning of establishment of Northern Cyprus folk dancing has been performed by locals, municipalities, states as an important symbol of our national culture, identity, and history.

People

The Turkish Cypriot people are renowned for their generous hospitality and are welcoming to an unexpected degree. Following Koranic tenets and their naturally friendly instincts, The Cypriot Turks area is most gracious and generous host. The people are friendly, helpful and will invite the visitor into their home, not just for a cup of tea, or coffee, but will also share whatever food they may have.

They have a courtesy rarely found elsewhere and delight in the company of new-found friends. Even the poorest peasant in a remote Karpaz village feels bound to honour his/her guest in the best possible manner. Hospitality of Turkish Cypriots taken to such lengths that a foreign guest often feels s/he is suffering from an overdose of it after being plied with food and drinks for hours, and being unable to refuse anything, in order not to hurt his host’s feelings.

More than anything, Turkish Cypriots are warm hearted, fun loving people with a real sense of family loyalty. Don’t be surprised if the hotel courtesy bus picks up children on their way home from school or a woman returning from shopping, carrying heavy bags. It is the kind of old fashioned courtesy that is now sadly lacking in the developed western world. Polite and helpful, Turkish Cypriots want you to enjoy your stay.

Historical life goes back to the seventh millennium BC. Throughout these years Cyprus has had foreign people on her soil, passing by or settling, leaving parts of their culture behind. Despite this the Turkish Cypriots have their own identity and will fiercely point out that they are not from the mainland (Turkey). They have a laid back attitude to life which makes for a most relaxing holiday. Visitors do not have to worry about being over-charged. This goes as far as the waiters who do not stand holding their hands out for a tip. During shopping or enjoying a meal, you are made to feel particularly welcome. It is quite common for a shopkeeper to offer you a coffee or cold drink. Etiquette says that it is not polite to leave before the coffee cup gets cold.

Evil Eye

The evil eye is a common belief among Mediterranean people. It is widely believed that if one person gives another a hateful look, he or she may die or become ill from its negative effects. The strength behind the evil look is the evil eye. It is also believed that the evil eye doesn’t only affect humans, but animals, plants and homes, so the blue beads are used for protection.

This amulet against evil eye is very typical in North Cyprus. You can find it all over Turkey and North Cyprus: women use it as bracelets, earrings or necklaces; Turkish people use it hung in their house, office and their car, also babies have it hung in their cloths. It should be mainly blue and look like an eye. There are very different sizes but the shape is usually round. The Turkish name for this amulet that protects one from the evil eye is nazar boncuk. But what is behind this turkish superstition? Once upon a time there was a rock by the sea that even with the force of a hundred men and a lot of dynamite couldn't be moved or cracked. There was also a man in this town by the sea, who was known to carry the evil eye (Nazar). After much effort and endeavor, the town people brought the man to the rock, and the man, upon looking at the rock said, "My God ! What a big rock !" The instant he said it, there was a rip, roar and crack, and instantly the immense and impossible rock was found to be cracked in two.

The force of the evil eye (nazar) is a widely accepted and feared element in Turkish and Turkish Cypriot daily life. So the idea is to protect yourself, your house, your office and loved ones.The Nazar amulet can be seen dangling from the bumpers of taxi cabs, pinned to the clothes of babies, built into the foundation of modern office buildings and guarding the doorways of kebap houses. If you want to use it in your house you should hang it in the entrance of the house, so any visitor will see it. If you want to wear, the most common one is a small amulet that can be hung on your cloth, or from your bag. Also you will find bracelets, earrings or necklaces in different forms and shapes to be used.

Turkish people believe that with the evil eye amulet you will be protected and all the bad energy will be directed to the amulet and it will brake. No bad energy will reach you since you are protected with the amulet of nazar boncuk. The protection of the Nazar is used for anything new or likely to attract praise. The belief is that even well-intentioned compliments include a conscious or unconscious dose of envy and resentment. The bead reflects the evil intent back to the onlooker. It somewhat resembles an eye and it is said the typical blue colour is a factor in protecting the user.

The economy of is dominated by the services sector (69% of GDP in 2007), which includes the public sector, trade, tourism and education. Industry (light manufacturing) contributes 22% of GDP and agriculture 9%. The economy operates on a free-market basis, with a significant portion of administration costs funded by Turkey. The TRNC uses the Turkish Lira as its currency, which links its economic situation to the Turkish economy.

In the four years between 2003 and 2006, the Turkish Cypriot economy recorded growth rates averaging around 13.4 percent per annum. This growth was fuelled by the relative stability of the Turkish Lira, a large construction boom, the expansion of Turkish Cypriot universities -- which cater mainly to Turkish and other international students -- and the employment of more than 4,000 Turkish Cypriots in the government-controlled area.

However, since 2007, the economy in the north ground to a halt and went into recession, with real growth rates of 1.5 percent in 2007 and minus 1.9 percent in 2008. Construction activity, which boomed in 2005 and 2006, came to a bust in 2007 and 2008, while tourism and agriculture went reverse. The Turkish Lira is the main currency, although Pounds Sterling and Euros are widely used. As of 2013, the GDP per capita of Northern Cyprus was $15,302, and the GDP was estimated to be at $4.273 billion in 2014. The economy grew by an estimated 3.70% in 2014 and 2.8% in 2013, meaning that Northern Cyprus is growing faster than the Republic of Cyprus. Northern Cyprus has seen economic growth and declining unemployment throughout the 2010s; the unemployment rate in 2014 was at 8.3%. The inflation rate in June 2015 was at 3.18%.

Most businesses in the north are family-run and tend to be very small. Manufacturing is limited mainly to food and beverages, furniture and fixtures, construction materials, metal and non-metal products, textiles and clothing. Unemployment in 2009 was estimated at 9.8% and the total workforce was reported at 92,000 people. With hundreds of miles of coastline, medieval castles and antiquities, tourism is a major potential growth industry. Tertiary education is also one of the strongest sectors in the north. There are currently six universities attended primarily by students from Turkey. According to the "State Planning Organization," over 40,000 students, of which over 80 percent are foreign, registered for the 2007-2008 academic year.

The economy operates on a free-market basis, although it continues to be handicapped by the political isolation of Turkish Cypriots, the lack of private and public investment, high freight costs, and shortages of skilled labor. Despite these constraints, the Turkish Cypriot economy turned in an impressive performance from 2003 to 2006, with estimated growth rates of 13.2% in 2006, 13.5% in 2005, 15.4% in 2004, and 11.4% in 2003. This growth was fueled largely by a construction boom, which ended abruptly amid renewed controversy over the legitimacy of property titles in the north, following a much-publicized court case in which the United Kingdom Court of Appeal on January 19, 2010 affirmed an earlier ruling by the European Court of Justice.

Embargo and Turkey's role

Because of its international status and the embargo on its ports, the TRNC is heavily dependent on Turkish military and economic support. All TRNC exports and imports have to take place via Turkey, unless they are produced locally, from materials sourced in the area (or imported via one of the island's recognised ports) when they may be exported via one of the legal ports.

The continuing Cyprus problem adversely affects the economic development of the TRNC. The Republic of Cyprus, as the internationally recognised authority, has declared airports and ports in the area not under its effective control, closed. All UN and EU member countries respect the closure of those ports and airports according to the declaration of the Republic of Cyprus. The Turkish community argues that the Republic of Cyprus has used its international standing to handicap economic relations between TRNC and the rest of the world.

Exports and imports

In 2014, the exports of Northern Cyprus were at $130 million, with an increase of 11.9% from 2013, and the imports were at $1.51 billion, with an increase of 3.6% from 2013. The main trading partner is Turkey, as of 2014, 64.7% of Turkish Cypriot imports are from and 58.5% of Turkish Cypriot exports are to Turkey. Middle Eastern countries are the destination of 30.3% of Turkish Cypriot exports and their share in the exports of Northern Cyprus has greatly increased, being at only 17.8% at 2006. The share of exports to the European Union has greatly decreased from 15.0% in 2006 and as of 2014, stood at 6.2%, while imports from the EU were 15.5% of all imports.

The agricultural sector is the source of the vast majority of exported goods. In 2013, 32.4% of exported products were raw agricultural products and 50.8% were processed agricultural products. 8.7% of the exports was minerals, 3.0% clothing and 5.1% other industrial products. Raw citrus by itself constituted 19.1% of all exports. The most important exported products, in order of the revenue they produce, are dairy products, citrus, rakı, scrap, citrus concentrate, chicken and potatoes.

In August 2004, new EU rules allowed goods produced or substantially transformed in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots to be sold duty-free to consumers in the government-controlled area and through that area to the rest of the EU. To qualify, goods must also meet EU sanitary/phytosanitary requirements. Animal products are excluded from this arrangement. In 2005, Turkish Cypriot authorities adopted a new regulation "mirroring" the EU rules and allowing certain goods produced in the government-controlled areas to be sold in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots. (However, suppliers cannot legally transport imported products over the green line in either direction.) Despite these efforts, direct trade between the two communities remains limited (comprising only 0.09% of the Greek Cypriot community's trade, and 11.8% of the Turkish Cypriot community's trade in February 2009).

Banking

Since the North Cyprus became and achieved a huge growth of econmy since 1983, the banking system has changed inevitably. All types of bank services are provided in Northern Cyprus and they are flexible enough to satisfy the continually diversifying needs of the business community. In recent years banks in North Cyprus have expanded their activities beyond traditional banking and their services include insurance, leasing, hire purchase finance, factoring, mutual fund management, investment and consulting as well as custody and asset management services. They have also developed new products and services through electronic means or electronic access (online banking), using alternative distribution channels such as the internet, call centers, etc. Most of the banks are supplied with English speaking employees, the best chance to master language obstacle is in the foreign exchange section of the bank.

Banking in North Cyprus can seem quite difficult at first but once you see your options you will be more relaxed. Most expatriates seem to like HSBC due to their familiarity with it and brand name recognition. But there are other options that are just as reliable and trustworthy. Just remember to apply the same amount of skepticism here as you would else where . After all this is Northern Cyprus and things are more laid back but that still does not mean that you should bank your life savings at Uncle Toms First Mutual Bank.

Currently, there are 24 commercial banks plus a Development Bank operating in Northern Cyprus. The number of branches with the origin of Turkey is 7 and the total deposit is around $6.5 billion as of 2009 . International companies such as HSBC, ING, Garanti Bank, TEB, Isbank, Ziraat, Halk Bank, Groupoma, AXA and many others are ready to provide banking and insurance services for your investments.

Tourism

The tourism sector of Northern Cyprus has seen high levels of constant growth. 1.23 million tourists visited Northern Cyprus in 2013, 920,000 of these being from Turkey. The number of tourists had doubled since 2006, which saw 570,000 tourists. The revenue from tourism was at $616 million, up from $390 million in 2009 and $288 million in 2004. The economy of North Cyprus has witnessed a rapid growth during the past few years; predominantly thanks to tourism sector. Even though the key sector of economy is agriculture and manufactoring, their shares in the GDP decrease (agricalture 10,6%, manufactoring 11,6% in 2003). Tourism has taken the priority and its share in the GDP increases from year to year. Along with tourism, the construction trade has reflourished and now employs 17,5% of working population; more than tourism itself which comprise 11,4% of working population (according to statistics from 2003).

In February 2014, after a hiatus of nearly two years, the leaders of the two communities resumed formal discussions under UN auspices aimed at reuniting the divided island. The talks are ongoing. The entire island entered the EU on 1 May 2004, although the EU acquis - the body of common rights and obligations - applies only to the areas under the internationally recognized government, and is suspended in the areas administered by Turkish Cypriots. However, individual Turkish Cypriots able to document their eligibility for Republic of Cyprus citizenship legally enjoy the same rights accorded to other citizens of European Union states. Turkish Cypriot independent Mustafa Akinci swept to victory in presidential elections on 26 April 2015, clinching 60.5 percent of the vote over incumbent conservative Dervis Eroglu. Akinci had pledged to push for a peace deal with Greek Cypriots.

Water project

The Northern Cyprus Water Supply Project (Turkish: KKTC Su Temin Projesi) is an international water diversion project designed to supply water for drinking and irrigationfrom southern Turkey to Northern Cyprus via pipeline under Mediterranean Sea. As such, the project is unique in the world.

The project, known as Peace Water, is being promoted as the “project of the century” by the Turkish government. The project was officially initiated in March 2011 with the construction of Alakopru Dam in Anamur. The line is 80 kilometers (50 miles) long and runs 250 meters (275 yards) below sea level. It is expected to deliver about 20 billion gallons of water annually to Cyprus.

Cyprus is short of surface water and groundwater due to inadequate rainfall. The project aims economy of Northern Cyprus_7.jpgto supply Northern Cyprus with water from Turkey for a timespan of 50 years. Of the 75 million m³ water, 37.76 million m³ (50.3%) will be used for drinking purposes and the remaining part (49.7%) will be allocated for irrigation. Following the realization of the project, irrigated farming at an area of 4,824 ha (11,920 acres) in Mesaoria Plains, one of largest plains of the island, will help improve the standard of living in the region.

The total investment cost of the project is budgeted at 782TL million (approx. US$432 million) consisting of 45.6TL million (approx. US$25.2 million) for structures in Turkey, 630TL million (approx. US$348 million) for the undersea pipeline and 26.9TL million (approx. US$14.9 million) for the structures in Northern Cyprus.

The Northern Cyprus Water Supply Project for transporting water to Cyprus was to be completed in September 2014. The realization of the project took place on October 8, 2015 with the arrival of first waters in Northern Cyprus pumped from Turkey.

Currency

Northern Cyprus uses the Turkish Lira (TL) currency. There are many currency exchange offices in all of the major towns, all of which will change Sterling to Turkish Lira. You can also exchange money at one of the many banks in Northern Cyprus. Most banks have English speaking staff who are happy to help with exchanging money or opening up a bank account. It is often better to wait until you get to North Cyprus to change your money into Lira, as the exchange rates tend to be much better than those in the UK. You can check the current exchange rates on sites such as http://monexcyprus.com/ In the main town of Kyrenia there is a branch of the HSBC bank, this is popular with English tourists and expats. As with all banks a ticket system is used to be severed by the cashier. On arrival you take a ticket from the machine near the door and wait to be called. Other banks in Northern Cyprus include; Iktisatbank, Creditwest, Turk Bank and Is Bank. Accounts can be opened in Lira or sterling and a time deposit accounts pay a high rate of interest per month. The banks operate summer and winter working hours. Please be aware that summer hours are usually 8.00am -1.00pm and winter hours usually 8.30am-3.30pm. Cash machines are widely used and some ATM machines give you the option of withdrawing Lira, Euros and Dollars, however check with your bank before your holiday regarding foreign use charges and to ensure that your card is activated for use abroad. Most businesses will also happily accept payments in main foreign currencies such as Euro, Sterling Pound, US Dollars, and Cyprus Pounds.

Cash

Also please be advised that some banks will not accept cash that does not have a stamp from the Turkish Central Bank. They actually will accept it if you have an account with them but if you are a tourist its better to use the money changers or exchange houses. If you need to use the bank in order to make a deposit at the bank then swapping the money at a local exchange shop is your best bet. Another option that the bank may offer you is to photocopy every bill and then if found to be fake later they will contact you. Not really the best option. This is especially the case with US dollars and this extra security is instituted since most banks (branches) in North Cyprus do not have the proper equipment to identify said counterfeit bills. Exchanging all hard currencies in banks, exchange offices and in hotels, is possible. Many banks in North Cyprus have ATM'S (automatic teller machine), enabling you to draw foreign currency while you stay in North Cyprus . The currency of Northern Cyprus is New Turkish Lira (YTL).

Cards

Almost all cards are accepted in North Cyprus . Visa, MasterCard, and Discover cards are welcome at almost every shop and restaurant in Northern Cyprus and can be used in many ATMs to withdraw money (although bank charges may apply). However, as of late American Express cards have seemed to become pretty useless in North Cyprus . Only one or two banks have a deal with American express and as such only shops or restaurants that have that swipe machine will accept an American Express Card. Atleks Onder is one of the few shops that does accept this card. Only please note that the swipe machine is not at the main checkout register. If the checkout clerk does not know please ask them to try the one near the perfume/electronics section (it is on the right on your way out, by the carts). Applying for a card is a pretty hassle free process although depending on what type of card you apply for it can take up to a month for it to be delivered. In most cases these cards are sent here from Turkey . Locals can register with their ID cards but if you a foreigner you will need to present your passport when applying for an account. Please do not rely entirely on your credit cards as some establishments still do not have the facilities to accept them. Bring some cash with you. Crime rate in North Cyprus is almost at zero level. If money or other belongings are stolen, the case is most commonly related to tourists.

Cheques

If you feel uncomfortable carrying large amounts of cash, then euro cheques and traveller cheques are accepted and easily exchanged in banks, exchange bureaux and hotels across North Cyprus . Cheque books are recommended to bring if you want to buy a property in North Cyprus.

List of Banks

• Central Bank of Northern Cyprus

• Akdeniz Garanti Bank

• Asbank

• Cyprus Economy Bank

• Cyprus Turkish Co-operative Central Bank - Optimum Card

• First Merchant Bank

• Kıbrıs Finansbank

• Kıbrıs Vakıflar Bankası

• Limasol Türk Kooperatif Bankası

• Renfrew Security Bank

• Şekerbank Kıbrıs

• Turkish Bank Group

• Universal Bank

• TC Ziraat Bankası - Cyprus branches

Insurance Companies

• AkFinans Insurance

• Can Sigorta - local insurance company

• Şeker Sigorta - Kıbrıs

Accountancy Firms

• Buba & Co. Independent Accountants & Auditors

• Tatar & Co. Chartered Accountants

Foreign Exchange Bureaus

• Sergeant Mustafa's Exchange Bureau

Other Financial Institutions

• Giro Investment

Loans and Mortgage Plans for Property in Cyprus

Nowadays, many home buyers, even the ones who do not have difficulty with funds, understand all the benefits of credit plans. Low interest rate in North Cyprus, make credit plans attractive to anyone. The popularity of mortgages for property in North Cyprus is determined by the easy process of purchasing property in credit terms, the lack of any formalities related to the provision of documents, favorable credit conditions, as well as favorable interest rates on loans. In our experience, many home buyers in North Cyprus, purchase property using credit plans, however they become owners of the property straight after registration of the contract and not after the credit is paid off. For a foreign citizen, receiving a bank loan in North Cyprus is quiet a complicated process, therefore developers, with a view of attracting foreign buyers, offer flexible payment plans and credit loans.

Foreign citizens are very active property buyers in North Cyprus, therefore even those construction companies who do not have sufficient funds to provide credit for the customer, take loans in the banks and supply credit plans for the buyers. Credit for 10-15 years can be obtained in North Cyprus only using valid passport and down payment for the property. Property, that is being purchased using credit plan is transferred into buyer’s name immediately after signing the contract. The conditions of the CREDIT PLAN IN NORTH CYPRUS is written on the contract of sale. Acquired property becomes security guarantee for the loan.

Obtaining full ownership of the property (receiving title deeds in owner’s name) can be done only after full repayment of the loan. It should be noted that, despite the duration of the credit plan in North Cyprus, the buyer is the owner and is entitled to rent or sell property even if with outstanding credit. Moreover, with proper management of the acquired property, if it will be used for rental, not only does it cover all the costs of the loan, but also brings profit.

Since the loan in North Cyprus is provided directly by the developers, then the credit terms conditions offered are different. Terms of the acquisition of real estate loans vary depending on the project, payment terms and the market situation, but they share the following rules:

- To obtain a loan only valid passport is needed

- A down payment for the property ranges from 10% to 50%

- The interest rate varies from 5% to 13% per annum, depending on the builder

It is not hard to obtain a loan in Cyprus from the development company. You can arrange the purchase of property in Northern Cyprus with a credit plan, not even coming to the island for processing the transaction.

North Cyprus mortgages: buying off-plan

The vast majority of North Cyprus villa and apartment purchases are of new-build properties, where you can customise your new place in the sun to your own tastes and requirements. This also offers advantages when financing your property purchase in North Cyprus, since payments are staggered in instalments through the construction period, and you do not need to find the full costs all at once. Furthermore, there is the very real chance that your property will have increased in value over the 12-18 months it takes to build, so your money is working hard alongside your builders!

Releasing equity and re-mortgaging in the UK

Many buyers choose to release equity from their existing UK property to fund their property purchase in North Cyprus, and take advantage of UK mortgage rate deals. The steady rises in UK property prices over the last ten years has enabled many to re-mortgage their UK house and release enough equity to buy their North Cyprus property outright. This has several advantages, not least of which is that your UK mortgage enjoys all the protection of UK financial law, and the benefits of the UK’s relatively stable interest rates. Also, your mortgage is secured on your UK property, not on your North Cyprus property.

Kindergartens

Cyprus is not only a popular holiday destination but also an excellent place for students, where they can achieve high quality education in Northern Cyprus at affordable rates. In almost every city of Northern Cyprus there is a large selection of kindergartens, schools and universities, where education is conducted in foreign languages, both English and Turkish. In most schools in North Cyprus a child can start learning without the knowledge of a foreign language and universities prior to the start of the education offer semiannual or annual courses of language learning, whether it is Turkish or English or even both.

In kindergartens in North Cyprus the child will be treated with warmth and care, regardless of whether it is public or private institution. Kids, in addition to the mother tongue spoken, will learn Turkish and /or English. Rates for private preschools vary depending on how much time the child spends in kindergarten; many kindergartens offer six day care where children can be left on Saturday for an additional fee.

Northern Cyprus has both English and Turkish kindergartens in all the areas. Children that attand English schools still have a chance to learn Turkish as they are in the same class with local children which speak Turkish. All Turkish kindergartens have a classes of English. Prices for kindergartens starting from 600TL if you have full time attandance.

The educational system in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (T.R.N.C.) can be broadly defined in five parts.

Pre-school education, primary education and secondary education, higher education, and informal education.

Pre-School Education:

Pre-school education is provided by kindergatens and creches for the children between the ages of 4 and 6.

Happy Child (Kyrenia)

Tirtil (Kyrenia)

Porter Reading Centre (Karaoglanoglu)

Colorland (Zeytinlik)

Lefkosa Montesori Okulu (Nicosia)

GAU Group of Schools Nursery (Karaoglanoglu)

Cesar Resort Kindergaten (Iskele)

Kamuboglu Preschool (Dogankoy)

Primary Education:

Primary education is provided at two stages. First stage (elementary school) is designed for the 7-12 age-group which lasts for five years and is free and compulsory. Second stage (secondary-junior) lasting for three years is intended for the 13-15 age group which is again free and compulsory.

K-12 Schools

Dilekkaya Ilkokulu

Eastern Mediterranean Crèche

Eastern Mediterranean Primary School

Güzelyurt Kurtuluş Ilkokulu

Levent Nursery

Levent Primary School

Lefke Istiklal Primary School

British Academy Cyprus

Secondary Education:

It is designed for the 16-18 age-group and has a three year programme of instruction. It is provided by high schools known as Lyceés and vocational schools. The technical and vocational schools are comprised of commercial lyceés, technical training schools, agricultural vocational school, the school of nursing and mid-wifery, and the tourism and hotel management and catering school.

Junior High Schools (Ortaokul)

The American College, Kyrenia

The American Future College, Nicosia

Esentepe Ortaokulu, Kyrenia

Şehit Turgut Ortaokulu, Güzelyurt

Senior High Schools (Lise & Kolej)

Eastern Mediterranean College, Famagusta

Gazi Lisesi, Lefke

Levent College, Nicosia

Near East College, Nicosia

Türk Maarif Koleji (TMK), Nicosia

Vocational Technical & Arts High Schools

Atatürk Meslek Lisesi, Nicosia

Cengiz Topel Technical School, Lefke

Karpas Vocational Lise, Meslek Lisesi, Karpas

Nicosia Anadolu Fine Arts High School, Nicosia

Practical Technical High School for Ladies, Lefke

Sedat Simavi Industrial Vocational Lycee, Nicosia

Higher Education:

Provided by 11 different universities.

Girne American University (Girne Amerikan Universitesi)

Girne American University was founded in 1985 as an independent, non-profit institution of higher education. From its establishment, the university has focused on providing access to an American-based higher education to the widest possible group of young learners. In charting its course for the next century, GAU will continue to be guided by this special mission. To serve its objective, GAU uses a wide range of strategies. It fosters a variety of instructional approaches, encourages scholarship, engages in collaborative community services and empowers its constituents to become responsible citizens in an interdependent, pluralistic, global community.

Eastern Mediterranean University(Dogu Akdeniz Universitesi)

Established in 1979, Eastern Mediterranean University offers programs fully recognized by Council of Higher Education in Turkey. Having completed its physical infrastructure, the campus spreads over an area of around 9000 sq. m. Eastern Mediterranean University 's visions are developing and growing further into one of the leading academic institutions in the eastern Mediterranean, Middle East, and North African regions.

Cyprus International University (Uluslararasi Kibris Universitesi)

Cyprus International University (CIU) was established in 1997. It is a modern, innovative institution providing its students a center of excellent international distinction. With all its academic and social activities, the University's prime commitment is to provide educational facilities to satisfy the needs of a modern technological society. Thus, whilst these needs are broadly provided, CIU has developed a deliberate policy of making its courses practical and relevant.

Near East University (Yakin Dogu Universitesi)

As being the European University Association and International Association of Universities member, NEU was founded in 1988. The main objective of this institution is to give students a sound education and bring them up as confident and responsible individuals with creative and inquisitive minds. Today Near East University consists of a select student population from eighteen different countries; hence its international identity. NEU with its ample educational facilities and academically highly qualified staff from 12 different countries is the only institution of higher education in Nicosia the capital city of North Cyprus rendering quality education.

Middle East Technical University(Orta Dogu Teknik Universitesi), Northern Cyprus Campus (Kuzey Kibris Kampusu)

METU was invited by the Turkish and Turkish Cypriot states to establish an international campus on Northern Cyprus to serve not only the Turkish students but also the international community. METU Northern Cyprus Campus (NCC) is a major investment project financed by the state and it enjoys the full academic and administrative support of METU. With its excellent facilities, exceptionally qualified faculty, and highest international standards in teaching, research and community service, METU NCC offers internationally accepted degree programs in engineering and economic and administrative sciences. The language of instruction on the Campus is English. From the very outset, METU NCC, following in the footsteps of its mother institution, the Middle East Technical University in Ankara , Turkey , aims at becoming a select higher education institution of international character. METU Northern Cyprus Campus admitted students to one undergraduate program in 2003-2004, and to six undergraduate programs in 2004-2005. Students attending these programs spent their freshmen year on METU Ankara Campus and have moved to METU Northern Cyprus Campus at the beginning of the 2005-2006 academic year. METU NCC started offering two new programs In 2007-2008 Academic year; Psychology and Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering. METU Northern Cyprus Campus became fully operational by September 2005 and accepted students to a total of eight undergraduate programs. By 2015, METU Northern Cyprus Campus will be offering a full spectrum of degree programs and will have reached an enrollment of 6,000 students. METU Northern Cyprus Campus is built on an area of 30 sq. km, approximately 50 km west of Lefkoşa ( Nicosia ) and 6 km north of Güzelyurt (Morphou), a charming town with a population of 12,000. Today, METU NCC is an excellent campus with its high-tech infrastructure, very modern education buildings and laboratories, the Cultural and Convention Center, Administration - Library - Computer Center Complex, Cafeteria, Shopping Center, Student Association Rooms, Dormitories, Staff Housing, Fitness-Wellness Club, Post Office, Book Store Health & Counseling Center, Indoors Sports Complex, and an outdoor swimming pool. The Campus is designed with all the necessary provisions to accommodate physically handicapped students to achieve their full potential.

Other Universities

European University of Lefke

University of Mediterranean Karpasia

British University of Nicosia

Istanbul Technical University

University of Kyrenia

Scholarships

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Ministry of National Education and Sports awards scholarships for international students based on their academic performance.

Full Scholarship - Tuition Fee + Dormitory Fee + Allowance (200 $*12 months) + Stationary Aid (120 Turkish Liras/Semester)

Partial Scholarship - Allowance (200 $*12 months) + Stationary aid (120 Turkish Liras/Semester)

Application Condition - Students studying or accepted to study in an undergraduate or graduate program in a university in TRNC may apply for the scholarship. Applications are accepted at the beginning of each semester; in September and in February.

Necessary documents that should be submitted are:

• Application Form (filled and signed)

• 2 photographs

• Copy of the passport

• For undergraduate students – Student certificate

• For Graduate students – Photocopies of degrees or diplomas already obtained together with an officially certified translation of those diplomas or degrees which are not in Turkish or in English

• Transcripts of academic records

Application Forms can be obtained from the universities.

Student Accommodation in North Cyprus

There are many buildings on the university campuses which are allocated for accommodation most of them within walking distance of the classroom buildings and the Student Centers. Most of the dormitories designed to house one, two, three or four persons in various rooms which the rooms are normally equiped with bed, desk, chairs, bookshelves, lounge chairs, wardrobe, mini refrigerator, toilet, shower and many of them with air conditioner or central heating.

Dormitory fees normally include electricity, water, cleaning, and other similar expenses. For more information about the universities dormitories please visit their web site.

Other private accommodation is also available off-campus. There are some residentials in the cities near to that specific universities. The property rent prices differ from range to range. However, the property owners are very friendly and hospitable just like the hospitability of the local people.

Cypriot cuisine has been influenced by different cultures throuhout history. Therefore there isn’ t any dish, which we would call ‘ Cypriot ’ only. However with little variations from their originals Cypriots have developed quite tasty dishes. Each dish has a peculiar taste and cooking and presentation reflects the character of the people of Cyprus. ‘ Molehiya ’ Arab in origin, has developed completely, appealing to Cypriot taste both in preparation, taste and presentation. Some dishes even vary from region to region in name, preparation and taste. Northern Cyprus is fascinating and appealing to people who eat well and enjoy eating.

A great variety of vegetable dishes, grills, pastry, fish, soups, kebabs, lahmacun, pides are to name but a few. A big list of mezes, sweets, cakes, eaten either as starters or as afters can be named. In addition to local cuisine Chinese, Italian, French and Indian foods are well represented in various restaurants.

Cyprus food will start arriving on the table soon after you sit down; this means that there is a set menu and those will be the "meze" starters. Most of the appetizers grow and are made in North Cyprus. Expect to receive up to fifteen small dishes of Northern Cyprus food including the delicious yoghurt, rice stuffed vegetables, black-eyed beans, hummous (purée of chicken peas and sesame paste) and nor (white cheese). Remember that this is only the beginning of a Turkish meal. Cypriots are great meat eaters, they use lambs and chicken in their cooking. All the meat is locally reared. There is no import licence issued for fresh meat. As they are Muslim, pork's not issued in some place, but you can find pork in all restaurants, especially in our restaurant in North Cyprus hotel.

Local dishes are delicious, particularly the "meze". This is a specialty of Cyprus and consists of a large number of cold and hot hors d'oeuvres such as different salads, meats, vegetable, and fish dishes. It is taken either as an appetiser or a main course. Other typical dishes are: "Yalancı Dolma" (vine leaves stuffed with rice, onions, and tomatoes); "Sish Kebab" (marinated lamb, skewered and grilled over charcoal; "Musakka" (layers of mince, potatoes, and aubergines baked in the oven with cheese topping).

Popular seafood dishes include calamari, cuttlefish, red mullet parpouni, sea bass lavraki, and gilt-head bream (chipura/tsipoura). Octopus, due to its robust nature, is made into a stiffado (stew) with red wine, carrots, tomatoes, and onions. Calamari is either cut into rings and fried in batter or is stuffed whole with rice, cumin, cloves, sometimes adding mint to the stuffing, and then baked or grilled.

Cuttlefish (soupies) may be cooked like calamari or like octopus in red wine with onions. It is sometimes prepared with spinach, but without adding garden peas, which are a popular accompaniment for cuttlefish in Turkey, specially in west and south coast, some parts of Greece and Italy. Calamari, octopus, and cuttlefish commonly feature in meze, a spread of small dishes served as an appetizer or a meal.

If you know the food of Turkey, then you know Cyprus food, but there are one or two things that you won't find in Turkey. Probably the most famous of Cypriot culinary specialities is hellim cheese. This full-fat soft cheese is made from whole goats milk, salt, mint and is typically served with salads.

Another speciality is molohiya, a green leafy vegetable, which grows only in Cyprus and on the banks of the Nile. It is usually cooked with chicken or meat and is deliciously wholesome.

Another interesting vegetable unknown outside Cyprus is kolokas, a root vegetable which when cooked (again with lamb or chicken) has the texture of potato, but has a much sweeter taste.

In addition to the usual Turkish kebabs, there are two, which are only to be found in Cyprus. One is kup kebab. This involves wrapping lamb or goat, potatoes and herbs in foil. The wrap is then cooked for hours in a clay oven. The other is sheftali kebabs which are small, spicy, sausage-like lumps of meat that are skewered and cooked over hot charcoal.

Desserts and Pastries

An old Turkish saying advises one to "eat sweetly and speak sweetly". Sweets and desserts have always been an important and distinctive element of Turkish Cipriots' cuisine. Altogether there are about 25-30 basic recipes for desserts known but with the addition of local variations the number becomes enormous. For example:

Turunc Macunu- (bitter oranges in syrup). Macun is old - fashioned, nationally loved sweet of Cyprus. Because of the sweetness it served with a glass of water.

Ceviz Macunu - (green walnuts in syrup), one of the favorite sweets in Cyprus which one can not find it easily in shops.

Katmer - Katmer is a sort of dessert pide, wafer thin pastry dusted with sugar and cream.

Zeytinli - Village bread with black olive, mint and onion.

Hellimi - Almost same with Zeytinli, the only difference is instead of olive, Halloumi cheese is used.

Hellimli Borek - Fried pastry with helloumi cheese served with honey.

Lokma - These golden, light bubbles that are bathed with thick honey (or syrup if preferred) as they emerge from the crackling cauldron of hot oil and served immediately.

Sammali - (Yoghurt, Almond and Semolina Cake)

Pirohu - (Turkish Ravioli with cheese)

Ekmek Kadayifi - is one of the popular sweets in Cyprus which looks like a syrup-soaked sponge.

Drinks

Zivania Cyprus Whisky - Zivania is a very strong, domestic made alcohol often referred to as fire water. It is made from the left-over after wine making is finished. The kazan, a cooper pot, is filled with fermented mess of grape remains and water. A fire is made and the pot is places on top. A condenser is attached to the kazan with tubes and in turn the tubes lead to bottle. The water in the condenser is continually replaced to keep cool, a bucketful out and another in.

Other Drinks - The national drink of Northern Cyprus is Brandy Sour and makes a delicious aperitif. It consists of generous helping of local brandy with bitters, lemon squash( usually home made) and soda. Raki is the Turkish equivalent of Pernod. Known as 'lion's milk' the aniseed sprit turns cloudy when diluted with water. It makes a good accompaniment to fish meze.

Turkish Coffee - A delicacy of the ottoman upper classes - Turkish coffee - is now enjoyed by all tourists on North Cyprus holidays. The secret of Turkish Coffee is to use good coffee beans and create froth on the top. In North Cyprus Hotels is Turkish coffee served in a small cups in four different ways - sade without sugar, az sekerli with a little sugar, orta sekerli with medium sugar and sekerli with lots of sugar.

Visa and Other Permits

At the present time, only Turkey maintains a formal embassy in the TRNC, while the TRNC has an embassy and consulates in Turkey. In various other countries, the TRNC has unofficial representative offices. Turkey represents the TRNC's interests in countries without such offices. In North Nicosia (the Turkish Cypriot administered northern half), both the British High Commissioner to Cyprus and the United StatesAmbassador to Cyprus have their formal residences, though since these residences had been in use since before 1963, it is not indicative of formal recognition of the TRNC by the United Kingdom or United States. In the same situation are the representative offices maintained by Australia, France, Germany, South Korea and the European Union.

United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany and Australia have representation offices in Northern Nicosia. As well, Northern Cyprus has a number of representations in other countries with various status.

Turkey is the only country which recognises Northern Cyprus and has an embassy in North Nicosia. Northern Cyprus has an embassy in Ankara.

Visa Information for Visitors

It’s very easy to visit Northern Cyprus: easy and free to get a visa and easy to get a flight! North Cyprus has an open door policy to visitors from almost all the countries of the world, in keeping with the wonderfully welcoming personality of the Turkish Cypriot culture and the international atmosphere of the TRNC. All citizens of Britain, the rest of Europe, Australia, Canada, Iceland, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Norway, New Zealand, Azerbaijan, South Korea, Singapore, Switzerland and USA do not require an advance visa to visit North Cyprus. Citizens from these countries can arrive at the border of North Cyprus, either from Ercan Airport via Turkey, Kyrenia (Girne) port by ship again via Turkey, or at the border with the South of Cyprus by car and gain an automatic 90 day visitor visa for a holiday or property viewing visit.

The only exception to this general rule is that citizens of Armenia and Nigeria do need an advance visa and should consult either the TRNC Representative or the Turkish Embassy prior to departure. This flexible approach to entry visas makes it possible for citizens of many non-Schengen countries to both visit and buy property in North Cyprus, even if they are not able to easily visit the Republic of (South) Cyprus.

If you are travelling for a visit, holiday or property viewing trip to North Cyprus you will need to arrive either via Turkey (to Ercan Airport in North Cyprus) or via South Cyprus (via Larnaca Airport in the Republic of Cyprus, crossing the border easily to the TRNC). North Cyprus 90 day visas are completely free of charge. Generally you will be issued with a slip of white paper with a 90 day stamp and this can be attached to your passport with a paperclip. You need to keep this during your stay and show it as you leave. At Ercan Airport in North Cyprus the immigration officer will often stamp passports unless you actively ask for the white paper visa instead. You would be advised to ask for the white paper insert rather than having your passport stamped if you are intending to travel regularly to the south (Republic) of Cyprus.

Can the nationals of all countries enter North Cyprus via the Republic of Cyprus and Larnaca Airport?

Citizens of Europe as well as most former Commonwealth countries (except South Africa) and the USA can easily enter the Republic of Cyprus, which is part of the European Union, without an advance visa. Visitors can land at Larnaca Airport which has a huge range of international and low cost flights from the UK, Europe, the Middle East and many other destinations. In addition, travellers with an existing Schengen Visa for South Cyprus can land at Larnaca International Airport and then cross the border very easily to North Cyprus where they will obtain their automatic 90 day visa. However, if your passport is NOT one of those mentioned, or you do not have a Schengen Visa, you must either apply for an advance Schengen visa at the Republic of Cyprus Embassy in your country of origin OR enter via North Cyprus via Turkey. It is generally much easier to obtain an advance visa for Turkey than for the European south of Cyprus if your passport is non-Schengen and if you fall into this category, you may prefer to arrive via Turkey by either ship or by air to Ercan Airport. It is for this reason that many nationalities prefer to both take their holidays and buy property in North rather than South Cyprus. Please note it is the Turkish Embassies and the TRNC Trade and Tourism Offices which deal with visa issues for North Cyprus and not the Cyprus Embassies.

If I travel to North Cyprus via Turkey, do I need an advance visa for Turkey?

If you are flying to Northern Cyprus via Turkey EITHER on an airline like Pegasus which merely touches down (but you do not disembark) OR an airline like Turkish Airlines where you transit in an airport such as Istanbul, but do not leave the airport, you do NOT need an advance visa for Turkey. However, if you are going to exit an airport, change airports or stay the night in Turkey on the way, you will need a visa for Turkey. Many nationalities can obtain a Turkey visa upon arrival, by paying a small fee. These visas are generally easy to obtain. Please check with your travel agent or your nearest Turkish Embassy for the exact details of your eligibility for an automatic visa upon arrival for Turkey as the rules vary for different nationalities.

Does a North Cyprus 90 day visitor visa enable me to work in the TRNC?

You will need a work visa to work in the North of Cyprus. The right to work in North Cyprus is not automatically given to visitors. This applies even to European Citizens, as North Cyprus does not come under the European Union rules at present.

Neither the 90 day automatic visitor visa or a residency visa (or property ownership) entitle you to work or earn money in Northern Cyprus; however it is possible to obtain a work visa. If you are planning to get a job or set up a business in North Cyprus, you need a TRNC work visa and we suggest that you consult one of our NCI recommended lawyers, or another lawyer of your choice, for details of how to go about this.

I wish to buy a villa or apartment and relocate to North Cyprus – is it easy to apply for residency?

There are nationals from all over the world living in multi-cultural TRNC and it is extremely easy to apply for Residency once you have an address in North Cyprus. If you are buying a home in the TRNC, just speak to your North Cyprus lawyer during the property purchase process about submitting your application for Residency. Please note, you do not need a Residency visa if you are only planning to spend up to 90 days at a time in your North Cyprus property. However, if you wish to spend many periods longer than 90 days, you can apply easily for residency of the TRNC. You will need to prove once a year that you have enough money in a local TRNC bank account to support yourself (and your family if relevant), and also have a simple blood test to eliminate the presence of any serious illnesses. The ease of application for residency is another reason why many international visitors choose the north part of Cyprus for their second home, or for relocation.

Residence permit

To obtain residence permit, the first port of call is the local police station’s immigration department – in Kyrenia this is near the Wednesday market. You will need to produce to the police the following documents:

• Passport original and photocopy.

• If you have the title deeds to property in your name, the title deeds (original) and photocopy. If you have purchased a property under Contract of Sale, but have not yet received the title deeds to the property, the Contract of Sale (original) and photocopy. If you are living in rented accommodation the Tenancy Agreement (original) and photocopy.

• A letter from your local village chief (Muhtar as they are known in Turkish) to say that you reside in his village. This letter is called Ikametgah Belgesi in Turkish. You can usually find your Muhtar in the centre of the village where you live near to the local municipality (belediye) building or the post office.

• Bank documents showing that you have a TRNC bank account which has sufficient funds or a regular income to enable you to support yourself in the TRNC without working. • 2 passport photographs

• 7.50 TL stamps (Damga Pulu in Turkish) (the amount required is constantly changing, so you should take a selection of stamps with you in case further stamps are required).

The police will then refer you to the Lefkosa State Hospital, or now there are certain clinics which are licensed to carry out this work, for a health test. The test will check for infectious diseases such as HIV, hepatitis and TB. After you have had the health test, you will collect the results and take them unopened to the immigration office in Lefkosa for the residency permit to be stamped in your passport. The immigration office is called the ‘Muhaceret Dairesi’ in Turkish.

It is important to note that the residency permit only entitles you to live in the TRNC. It does not entitle you to work or to set up a business in the TRNC. To do these things you will need either a work permit or a permit to set up a business.

The residency permit is valid for a period of 1 year. It must be renewed every year by following the same procedure (except for the hospital check).

Children under the age of 18 years do not require residency permits. This is only applicable to adults. Therefore, families moving to the TRNC only need to apply for residency for the adult members of the family. Non-citizens who give birth to a child in the TRNC, will need to notify the embassy or consulate of their country of origin of the birth of the child and once this has been done and a letter to this effect has been obtained from the embassy or consulate, they will need to apply to the District Office (Kaymakamlik) in the area in which the they live to register the child’s birth.

Becoming a citizen of the TRNC is more complex. Citizenship is granted to all persons whose mother or father is a Turkish Cypriot or to those married to a Turkish Cypriot. At the moment, there is a new law in Parliament to allow foreign nationals to become citizens of the TRNC after 10 years of residence in the TRNC. The current cost is approximately £150 for your first application and then a small renewal fee in subsequent years.

For annual renewal

• Under 60’s still need blood tests and x-rays ( For over 60’s read section below )

• Take your registration booklet+ up to date versions of the documents listed above

• Photocopy of the last residence stamp in your passport

• No passport photos are needed

• No revenue stamps are needed.

Work Permit

Work permits are initially for either six months or one year. Once a year has been completed, then 2 year permits are available. Permits, as at 1st February 2016 cost either 160TL for 6 months or 346TL/year or 692TL for 2 years. Work permits are issued for working at a specific company and location. Only one permit is allowed.

Before a permit can be issued, all taxes have to have been paid by the company to the Sosyal Sigorta (Health Insurance Dept) and Ihtiyat Sandigi (Pensions/Provident Fund) and not merely deducted from the employee. The rates, based upon gross monthly income, currently are: Ihtiyat Sandigi-11% paid by employer, 9% paid by employee. Sosyal Sigorta-5% paid by employee.

The first thing the employee needs to do is obtain,from the Police’s immigration department, a copy of their ‘ins & outs’. The form they issue requires a post office stamp (approx. 20TL).

If a foreigner has a kocan in their name, no bond is required, otherwise a bond of 750 Euros is required. This is usually arranged by the company. The money remains in the company’s bank account but is ‘blocked’ by the bank. It does not have to be in a special account, but merely one in Euros. It can earn interest for the company. Annually, a letter, from the bank to the ‘Social Security Department’, confirming that they have blocked the money is needed. This letter will be sent to the company’s accountants. The company can negotiate how much the bank charges, but it can be up to 700TL. If an employee leaves their employment within a year, the money still remains blocked until the year has finished.

The company’s accountants deal with the government. They will supply the employee with a form for obtaining a blood test and x-ray. The hospital will issue a pink booklet, which they must stamp; it also confirms that the employee is entitled to free medical care. The health check costs 135TL. The pink hospital booklet needs to be given to the accountants along with the employee’s passport. Both will be returned, along with a work permit stamped into the passport.

It is not possible to have both a work permit and temporary resident status. If you have already been issued with one or the other, the one not required must be cancelled. Temporary residency payments are not refundable, if a work permit is subsequently applied for. If someone has been a resident for a number of years, then obtains a work permit, the years they had previously built up become void. The Government is currently reconsidering this situation. Other points to bear in mind:

a) A spouse’s residency permit must be dated the same as her married partner’s work permit.

b) If you have a work permit, then become "not employed", a residency permit must be obtained. There are a limited number of days allowed to obtain this and our advice is to action this within 14 days. The cost of a residency permit as of 1st February 2016 is 477TL

c) A work permit is still required for people over 65 years old. No Sigorta payments are needed, instead private medical insurance is compulsory. Some banks offer this as part of a discounted package along with the Euro bond.

d) If a company is caught employing someone without a work permit, the employee faces potential deportation. Furthermoreboth the employee and the employer face a fine of 5 x the legal minimum wage.(Currently 6,500TL each).

Typical Annual Costs (TL) for this service are as follows:

• Work permit - 260

• Medical - 135

• Accounting fees - 252

• Bank bond letter - 300 to 700 (this can usually be negotiated)

Business Permits/Models:

a) Companies owned by foreigners must have limited liability.

b) Companies can be 100% foreign owned, except for certain types of businesses. This is where the rules of the ‘Union’ (this is the business federation and not a trade union) prohibit or restrict such ownership. The company’s accountants need to check the rules before forming the company.

c) A maximum of 49% foreign share holding is allowed for such companies as: Estate agents, property owning companies (regardless of their main activity)

d) Foreigners are not allowed to have any ownership of companies involved in businesses like Hospitals, Transport, Banks.

The company’s or individual’s bank needs to hold a bond for 15,000TL per foreign shareholder, to be held against unpaid tax. The money remains in the company’s bank account but is ‘blocked’ by the bank. It does not have to be a special account, but merely a deposit account in TL. It can earn interest for the company. Annually, a letter from the bank confirming that they have blocked the money is sent to the company’s accountants. This letter will be charged for, but the amount is negotiable.

Initially the business permit is for 1 year. However, after that year’s business has successfully been completed, a 2 year permit is available. Before business permits can be renewed, confirmation from the tax authorities is required, that the following have been paid: company tax, personal tax, employee tax and accounts have been filed. It is advisable to use an accountant who is close to the tax authorities. Rates as at 1st February 2016 are as follows:

• 946TL for 6 months

• 1,905TL for one year

• 3,796TL for 2 years

Off-Shore non-TRNC trading Companies

It is possible to own an off-shore company. The rules aren’t complicated, but need to be followed and can vary according to the nature of the enterprise. An accountant is required and will give specific advice. However, it must be remembered that the company only trades overseas, with no transactions involving the TRNC, beyond the statutory requirements of:

• Employing a Turkish Cypriot resident for a few hours/week paying at least the legal minimum hourly rate.

• Filing accounts monthly, these can be undertaken by any competent person.

• Filing annual accounts via the company’s accountants, in the same way as any other company.

• The shareholders are paid through dividend income, which has a 2% tax liability.

• No work or business permit is needed.

The private healthcare sector in North Cyprus is one which you should feel comfortable about if you are considering relocating to live here.

Should you ever need treatment for any number of ailments or illnesses, or require emergency treatment such as surgery, then there are excellent and well equipped facilities to deal with pretty much every eventuality.

Expatriates who reside in North Cyprus can of course take out their own health insurance, and this may be advisable. Health insurance is available through many of the insurance companies and agents operating in North Cyprus which can offer a range of policies to suit your requirements, usually through the larger health insurance companies in Turkey. It is also possible to obtain health insurance direct via large international companies such as BUPA for example.

Expatriates should take the time to weigh up the cost of health insurance versus one off payments for any medical issues which may require treatment and/or hospital stays. Prices for treatments at private clinics in North Cyprus are still affordable for most, and are certainly cheaper than those in the UK and the majority of Europe. However, the NHS in the UK for example is still an option for the first 12 months after you move to TRNC, and for those who keep a residential address in Britain, but waiting times may be prohibitive, and therefore treatment in North Cyprus perhaps becomes a more sensible option.

Private clinics are usually located in the major cities and towns, with Lefkoşa, Famagusta and Kyrenia being home to the majority of private clinics and hospitals.

There are plenty of them too, and with many specialists in various fields of healthcare, it’s an impressive sector. The island is also gaining a good reputation abroad for such specialist areas as fertility treatment, eye laser surgery and cosmetic surgery as well as dentistry.

Sometimes facilities at private hospitals and clinics are also used by private practioners. For example, you may find yourself visiting an independent eye clinic, and if further treatment is required – for instance laser surgery – you may attend one of the private hospitals which your eye doctor rents for his surgery requirements. This saves him the cost of importing all the necessary equipment which the private hospital may already have, and all he needs to do is pay them a fee for its usage.

Some private hospitals are able to offer expatriates a membership system, whereby you have the option of choosing from certain levels of yearly membership, which then entitles patients to a reduced rate on treatments and surgeries. One such hospital is the Cyprus Life Hospital in Lefkoşa which runs a membership scheme through the British Residents Society. If you’re a member of the BRS the you’re entitled to join the hospital’s scheme.

Another hospital offering a similar independent membership scheme, with the added bonus of regular free check ups, is the Kyrenia Medical Centre at the Kamiloğlu Hospital in Kyrenia. Prices too are really quite impressive at the time of writing, beginning at around £100 for an annual membership. Affordable even if you are fortunate enough not to require medical treatment throughout the whole year!

There are plenty of other hospitals offering the same service around the island, so it’s worth looking around the area you have relocated to, to see what options are open to you. Of great benefit, most offer a 24 hour emergency service for members, and have a private ambulance to transfer patients should it be required at any time of day or night.

You should also be impressed with the facilities and modern technology used in North Cyprus, as despite the embargoes placed upon it, it seems to do very well in obtaining state of the art equipment and all the mod cons for healthcare! Private hospitals and clinics all have very comfortable rooms, most having shower rooms, TV and even mini bars (non-alcoholic of course!), and they all have plenty of room for visiting relatives and friends. Rooms are also kept extremely well cleaned by a seemingly endless stream of hospital operatives.

All of the hospitals and clinics we have come across are able to deal with a long list of medical areas and ailments, in fact too many to mention all of them here! However, you will find most that deal with surgical situations have radiology departments, intensive care units and outpatient clinics, but can also deal with other areas such as dermatology, dietary and physiotherapy for example. All in all it is very comforting to know and considering that most of the surgeons and doctors within private practices have trained in Turkey and Europe you should be totally at ease with the quality and standards of care in North Cyprus.

There are lots of other healthcare options available too, with alternative medicine starting to make inroads on the island, and the ease with which you can buy prescription medication over the counter at pharmacies, making the choices for healthcare more appealing and certainly less concerning for people looking at relocating to North Cyprus.

North Cyprus operates a fairly modern state run healthcare system. It has 4 general hospitals in Kyrenia, Lefkoşa, Güzelyurt and Famagusta – they are all well-equipped hospitals with modern facilities and equipment, as well as accident and emergency departments. The service and care the hospitals offer is at times a welcome break from the slow and sometimes mediocre healthcare systems in the rest of Europe, and the hospitals on the island are more than capable of dealing with any number of illnesses and emergency situations. You will often find that people’s experiences of treatment are positive and that they are full of praise for the hospital staff’s speed and professionalism.

North Cyprus is at present not a member of the EU, and therefore the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will not be valid at any medical facility here, whether state or private.

If you require emergency treatment in North Cyprus then you will never be refused at a state hospital, often with no cost to yourself. However, this is not an ideal situation for an already under funded healthcare system, but nevertheless this is the way the system works at present.

If you do require a hospital stay however, then you will be charged by the hospital and rates are calculated on a daily basis. It is also worth noting that a patient is basically reliant on visitors and family and/or appointed carers to provide them with general care, such as cleaning and replenishment of clothing as this is not provided by the state hospital system in Northern Cyprus. Nowadays a private company is sub-contracted to perform all non-medical tasks such as cleaning, washing of hospital bedding and also security.

If you are working in North Cyprus and have a valid work permit, you will be paying into the state system by way of social security and pension contributions, thus entitling you to free healthcare by the state. You will be provided with a medical card, requiring re-certifying every 6 months at your local social security office, and this will entitle you to completely free medical care at all state run hospitals. It is also worth noting that a medical card can be used at high street pharmacies to obtain lower prices for certain prescription medicines.

State hospitals also provide services such as blood donation, although the system of supplying and obtaining blood is a sometimes stressful situation. Each state run hospital keeps a supply of blood readily available for emergency purposes; however there is a larger blood bank which holds the main supply at the Lefkoşa hospital. If blood is required for a scheduled operation or for long term treatment then you are required to return the blood via donations from yourself and perhaps your friends and family to balance the amount you took. It is therefore very obvious that hospitals require a constant source of donated blood and rely heavily on donations.

Lefkoşa hospital is also an important centre for Thalassemia sufferers – this is a genetic blood disease prevalent in the Mediterranean – who need to attend for regular blood transfusions.

All in all the state run hospital system is adequate, pretty modern, but at the same time it needs further investment to be able to cope with the natural increase in population. Some would still say that it is more than equivalent to current European standards, and from our own experiences we would tend to agree.

Useful contact numbers

Ambulance – 112

Kyrenia Hospital – +90 392 815 2266

Lefkoşa Hospital – +90 392 228 5441

Famagusta Hospital – +90 392 366 2876

Güzelyurt Hospital – +90 392 714 2125

Health Care Advice from 8am to 11pm – +90 (0)392 815 4929 or +90 (0)542 886 2955

Buses and minibuses in Northern Cyprus cover the routes between all major towns and larger villages, but they do not go to many of the main tourist attractions. That is why a car rental is recommended. They are a varied mix of old and newer privately owned vehicles. Each bus route is leased privately from the North Cyprus government. Being of different sizes they are most commonly white mini buses or bigger colourful old fashioned ones. The destination is usually shown in the front windscreen. Locally they are known as kombos (from Turkish dolmus). It originally signifies the bus when fully loaded by commuters. Either stand at a bus stop or you can simply flag the vehicle down anywhere along the main road. The buses in TRNC do not follow fixed schedule. However, bus departures are frequent (every 20-30 minutes) between large and smaller towns during the weekdays and weekends. After 7 pm the service is not that frequent. The prices generally vary between 3 TL and 6 TL.

There is mostly interurban and rural type of bus service in Northern Cyprus. The interurban buses link major towns, the rural buses connect smaller villages to their nearest towns. Although there are public buses in North Nicosia, they tend to mainly service the suburbs outside the Old City. Buses leave from near Kyrenia Gate. In Kyrenia there exists the collective way of transport that is carried out on the main road. For reaching the areas around Kyrenia, however, car hire or taking a taxi is a better bet.

LOREM IPSUM.

Buses from Nicosia to:

Famagusta (every 20 min; 1 hr)

Kyrenia (several hourly, departing when full; 30 min)

Güzelyurt (every 30 min; 45 min)

Iskele (5-6 daily; 50 min)

Buses from Güzelyurt to:

Lefke (every 30 min; 30 min)

Buses from Kyrenia to:

Famagusta (hourly, 1hr 30 min)

Güzelyurt (several daily, 1 hr)

Nicosia (every 15 min; 30 min journey when there is no traffic)

Daily out-and-back minibus services run for most villages between Bahçeli in the east and Tepebasi on the Kormakiti peninsula, but usefully frequent schedules only Çatalköy, Ozanköy, Beylerbeyi and Lapta.

Buses from Famagusta to

Kyrenia (every 30 min, 1hr 10 min)

Nicosia (every 30 min, 1hr)

Yenierenköy (several daily except Sunday; ask locals, 1hr 15 min)

Ercan-Girne Shuttle Service - Ercan Departure Times

08:10

09:30

11:00

12:00

13:30

14:30

16:30

18:30

20:00

21:30

23:30

Ercan-Girne Shuttle Service - Girne Departure Times

04:50

07:15

09:00

09:45

11:15

12:15

13:30

15:00

16:15

18:30

20:00

Taxis

Taxis dont always sport meters, so agree on the fare with the driver beforehand. As a rough guide, expect to pay around 20TL for a ride around any of the towns. A taxi ride from North Nicosia to Kyrenia will cost around 50TL, and from North Nicosia to Famagusta, 100TL.

Tourist Taxis

The ‘tourist’ taxis that await you near the Turkish Cypriot checkpoint at the Ledra Palace Hotel in North Nicosia will take you anywhere you want to go around Northern Cyprus. A round-trip day tour to Kyrenia, Famagusta, Bellapais (Beylerbeyi), Buffavento Castle and St Hilarion Castle costs around €30 to €50. (Although euros are not in general use in the North, most people will accept them if you have no other currency; Turkish taxis at crossing points will always quote their prices in British pounds.)

Car Rentals

Renting a car in North Cyprus is easy and cheap (between UK £10 to £15 per day. Car rental services are widely available in the main towns, and petrol is cheap. A current driving licence [with your passport] is all that is needed. Traffic drives on the left, as in Britain. The speed limit in urban areas is 30 mph. Traffic in North Cyprus circulates on the left, as in Britain, and the traffic signs are international, with good dual carriageways connections between major towns.

Some companies to rent a car:

http://www.sunrentacar.com/

http://www.birdrentacar.com/site/

http://www.darknblue.com/

http://www.baspinar-rentals.com/

http://cypruschariot.com/

http://www.triprentacar.com/

Buying a car

So, you’ve finally relocated to Northern Cyprus and you want to get around and need some independence – i.e., you want to look around for that ideal form of transport, the car!

Buying a car here is actually really quite easy, and there are heaps of car dealerships for both brand new and second hand vehicles. We will offer some tips and advice on how to get the best deal, what to expect within the cost of buying a car, and what you need to do to keep it legally on the road!

If you fancy getting an idea of prices before venturing out to look at the thing in all its metal glory, then it’s a great idea to get a copy of the Alım Satım Magazine (Buying & Selling) which you can find in supermarkets and newsagents. It has hundreds of cars, mostly advertised by the dealerships themselves, as well as some private sales too. If you know the type of car you want then you will know straight away whether it’s affordable for you. If you are not sure, then again the magazine will give you a good idea of what you can expect to pay.

From time to time you may also find someone selling their vehicle in the classified ads section of theCyprus Today newspaper, and also it’s sometimes worth checking the web forums to see if someone is flogging their motor on the cheap!

Other things to think about are the running costs of a vehicle too. Road tax here is based on the weight of the car, which is aimed at trying to reduce the amount of juggernaut Hummers and other big off-road vehicles that have become a popular purchase in the last few years! Insurance is available either as a standard third party policy, which will only cover costs to a certain limit should you have an accident, or there is also fully comprehensive which is calculated based on car type and purchase price.

The engine size is not really taken into account it would seem, although the smaller the engine the cheaper to run and less polluting from an owner’s point of view! Just to note that MOTs are not required for newly registered cars, (unless it’s a commercial van for example which needs an MOT each year). MOTs are only required after a car has been registered for around 4 years (no matter how old it is!) – so that’s a great bonus. This is the same for emissions tests as well which are only required at the time of an MOT.

It’s also worth noting at this juncture that the cost of both brand new and second hand cars in North Cyprus are pretty expensive compared to what you would be expected to pay in the majority of European countries. Again, because of the status of North Cyprus, the embargoes against it and the fact that it is an island of course, the import costs of bringing cars onto the island are high, so this is then passed on to the consumer unfortunately. As an example for you to keep in mind, think of a small car such as the popular Suzuki Swift (there are hundreds of them here!), at around 2 years old when imported here it will set you back the same price as a brand new model in the UK.

When you are looking around make sure you visit a few dealerships. The main ones tend to be in theLefkoşa area along or around the main airport road. After you reach the main roundabout after coming down the mountain from Kyrenia you will see the roads to the right and left are packed with dealerships. As you approach the roundabout there is the big Opel dealership, and all along the road to the left you will find dealerships for Mercedes, Fiat, Renault and Toyota for example, all mingled together with second hand dealers as well.

If you’re looking for more of a bargain basement vehicle that may have seen some better days but is still in reasonable condition, then try the road off to the right by the Fiat dealership. Here you can often find some good deals on older vehicles which are more than likely to have been made in Turkey, such as Renault, Tofaş and Fiat. All the costs of running these types of cars are much cheaper due to the availability of spare parts and low tax costs. All along this road you will also find plenty of dealerships – both new and second hand – including the Ford dealership called Çangar which also sells BMWs if your budget stretches that far.

Our main advice is that it’s sensible to shop around. There are some dealerships in Kyrenia and alsoFamagusta, but they do tend to be a little more expensive for some reason, so it’s always better to take a trip into Lefkoşa as this is where the car fraternity appears to congregate! The majority of second hand dealerships seem to mainly offer cars from the Japanese market. This could be because they have plenty of nearly new car auctions there and their cars are easy to purchase over the Internet and get shipped here – plus the steering wheels in Japanese imports are on the correct side for Cyprus, ie., the right hand side! One particular car service company has a relative working in Japan, so it’s an even easier process for them to get their cars to North Cyprus!

When you have finally chosen a car that you like and it suits your needs perfectly, then you can haggle with the dealer a little bit, but you would be surprised how little flexibility in price there is! From our own experiences here at Essential Cyprus there is not much you can get thrown in for free to add some incentive to get you to buy a car! However, prices do come ‘on the road’ which includes a year’s road tax, the car transferred into your name, number plates registered and put on and the car will have already had the import duty paid on it. If you’re lucky the dealer might just throw in a key-ring and an air freshener for you! If you’re a first time car buyer, just watch out for some sharp practices that can occasionally occur and ensure that the price you are quoted includes all of the above ‘on the road’ elements before you agree to buy.

Some dealerships will do you a deal for your old car should you own one already, and in particular if you have brought from them previously and are taking your first purchase back to them to change it for a new one – they may give you a few hundred pounds more than if you were a new customer for example.

So, once you have the keys to your new or second-hand car and all the paperwork has been done and you’ve remembered to get some temporary insurance cover in the form of a cover note, you can drive your new toy home!

All that you need do now is remember to have all the requirements in place to run it legally here in North Cyprus, with the obvious insurance documentation, service schedule and emissions tests, MOT and Road Tax. We shall save all that for other articles in the future though! In the meantime, if you need to know more about obtaining a TRNC driving license please click the link provided.

New car dealers:

• Akin Oto Galeri:

Okullar Yolu No: 79 Nicosia

Tel: +90 3922278134

• Renault: Dr. Fazil Küçük Bulvari

Din Sitesi Karsisi Hamitköy

Ercantan Ltd.

Tel: +90392 2253333

www.ercantan.com

• Tofas

Dr. Fazil Küçük Bulvari

No 21 Lefkosa

Tel: +90329 2252300

www.levent.com

• Artesa Ltd (Volkswagen):

Gönyeli Kavsagi

Tel: +90 392 2231830

• Toros (OPEL)

Dr. Fazil Küçük Bulvari

Tel: +90 392 22 38911

Fax:+90 392 22 38909

• Changar Motors (Kyrenia)

http://www.bmw.cc/ncy/en/

How to get to Northern Cyprus

North Cyprus can be reached by air and by sea. You may choose the most convenient way for you. Although there are no direct flights to the TRNC, traveling to the northern part of the North Cyprus is very easy. Cyprus Turkish Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Onur Air and Atlas Jet provide scheduled flights to the TRNC from all international airports worldwide via Turkey. As mentioned above, all the aircrafts flying to Turkish Republic of North Cyprus are to touch down in Turkey. It will take you approximately an hour to get from Turkey to North Cyprus.

If you travel by sea, the voyage to Northern Cyprus may take you from 2.5 to 10 hours. Ferry-boats and sea-buses operate regularly between North Cyprus Kyrenia and Famagusta toTurkey. Sea-busses are faster and travel between the island and Turkey almost every day. Northern Cyprus Ferry boats can take more passengers and cargo, but go slower. A trip by a ferry boat can take up to 4-10 hours.

Driving of left side

Drivers from the United Kingdom will feel especially comfortable in North Cyprus because traffic here also travels on the left side of the road. And like most many countries throughout the world, a seatbelt law is enforced and children under the age of five are not permitted to ride in the front seat of a car. Drunk driving laws are also very strict here and are stringently enforced.

Speed limits are often posted in both kilometers per hour or miles per hour. On the highway the speed limit is usually 100 kph (60 mph), with a minimum speed of 65 kph (40 mph) that may be also enforced. On smaller back roads the speed limit is generally 60 kph (37 mph).

Throughout North Cyprus highways are rated according to their quality. "A" roads are the highest in quality and are often four-lanes and divided. "B" roads are also major roads but they are often just two lanes and not divided. "E" and "F" roads, on the other hand, are usually narrow two-lane roads or single-lane roads with sharp edges and restricted visibility. These roads should probably be avoided if possible while driving a North Cyprus car hire. The various road grades are usually indicated both on road maps as well as on highway signs.

North Cyprus offers visitors an abundance of places to eat; from the simplest of tavernas to international style restaurants, the choice is stunning. But all share the traditional Cypriot values of fresh ingredients, friendly staff and good value. No holiday to Northern Cyprus would be complete without at least one meal in Kyrenia Harbour but don't neglect some of the smaller restaurants to be found in the villages or the back streets of Kyrenia and along the coast. An evening meal in Bellapais Village, under the floodlit majesty of Bellapais Abbey.

Efendi Restaurant

Cuisines: Europenean and Mediterranean

Description :”Efendi restaurant cuisine is an art. We have developed a menu using only the best local and imported ingredients, so we can provide an imaginative and exceptional taste sensation. Enjoy your meal in a beautiful setting with unequaled service.“

Good for: Business meetings, Special Occasion Dining, Groups, Romantic, Bar Scene, Child-friendly

Address: 11 Kamil Pasa Sokak, Kyrenia, Cyprus +90 533 8679677

Silver Rocks

Cuisines : seafood, Eoropean, Turkish, Internatioal, British

Description: SilverRocks Restaurant has an attractive at most here and offers high quality service. The menu has a wide voriety of food ranging from starters, salads, pasta dishes, red meat and sea food dishes. The place is situated at the sea side that give SilverRocks a natural beauty. The Bar of SilverRocks Restaurant has all kinds of drinks including quality Turkish wines. There is an other attraction of the Restaurant that a sea water swimming pool so you can enjoy your time at the beautiful spot with the special snack menu for the day time. Reservations for special occasions, dinner parties, birthdays and engagement parties... can also be made. Try the special snack lunch. Suitable for an enjoyable meal during the summer months. An experienced taste for nouelty and variety... “

Good for: Groups, Romantic, View, Child-friendly

Address: Lapta, Kyrenia, Cyprus +90 392 821 8922

Bella Moon

Cuisines: Turkish

Description: Bella Moon is situated in the heart of Kyrenia. The restaurant has a good reputation and caters for every taste. This is a great area to dine out and with local restaurants being rated amongst the best in the region (see The Rough Guide) why not try The Bella Moon Restaurant. Relaxed atmosphere with professional friendly service, great food. Special place to be.

Good for: Groups, Romantic, Special Occasion Dining

Address: Bellapaise, Kyrenia, Cyprus +90 392 815 4311

No 14

Cuisines: Europenean

Description: “By entering from outside through the gate, we just went WOW! Its like walking into another universe - fantastic scenery around a beautifully illuminated pool. Not to mention the calm atmosphere and the service minded staff. This is truly a unique hidden gem inside the Turkish Quarter. Not to mention the food, very nice both the starters as well as the main course - a huge experience from A to Z. “

Good for: Groups, Romantic, Special Occasion Dining

Adress: 14, Yazicizade Sokak, Kyrenia, Cyprus +90 (0)542 8592072

The Ambiance

Cuisines: Europenean, Turkish, French, Mediterranean

Description: The Ambiance has the perfect setting with a lovely atmosphere. The well-trained staff are able to provide the excellent service and superb food you would expect from a 5 star venue, but at a very reasonable price! The tables in the summer season are placed on the wood decking terrace that is over the rock pools and it’s fantastic to watch the sunset. Open for swimming, Sunbathing, Lunch, Dinner and Bar.

Good for: Romantic, Business meetings, Child-friendly, View, Groups, Special Occasion Dining

Adress: 20, Parasut Sokak, Karaoglanoglu, Kyrenia +90 392 822 2849

The Terrace

Cuisines: Turkish

Description: We definitely cannot describe ourselves as a fine dining restaurant but we guarantee a welcoming and friendly service with fresh cooking and a relaxed atmosphere. Have a great meal in a lovely warm and cosy atmosphere!! A good variation of dishes from both the lunch and main menu,. A good selection of wines and spirits and I was over the moon to find my favored tipple prosecco available!!

Good for: Groups, Child-friendly

Adress: Sehit Cemil Akin Sok No. 45, Karakum, Kyrenia, Cyprus +90 533 841 0550

The Kyrenia Tavern

Cuisines: Turkish, Europenean

Description: If you like it authentic and rustic this is the spot for you. Serving simple and tasty Cypriot favourites: meze, moussaka and kleftiko (clay-pot cooked lamb), usually prepared daily. The evening begins with the family welcoming you and the food is traditional and amazing as always. Local cuisine cooked with a passion in their home... literally. It is also fresh, diverse and food comes to you as soon as it is cooked. The chef literally comes to your table and slides it straight off the pan onto your plate. Atmosphere: homely, intimate (we were in a room with only four tables) with classical music in the background. Cost: it is basically a set menu and it cost us about 20-30 euros for each person.

Good for: Groups, Child-friendly

Adress: Turkmen Sokak 2, Kyrenia, Cyprus +90 392 815 2799

Grida Balik Fish Restaurant

Cuisines:Seafood, Turkish

Description: Grida fish restaurant; sea food with a varied menu, you must firstis a family business offering healthy and tasty products.restaurants_of_ North_Cyprus_Grida_Balik_Fish_Restaurant.jpg From customer: “They care! Menu is great, it's super clean, lovely ambience, and for the best part I should mention beautiful character of lovely couple as owner and chef. Their hospitality is not forgettable! And since it's Cyprus, you should ask them if you don't want to get your fish over well done :D

Good for:Child-friendly, Groups

Address: Beşparmaklar Cd. No:8/A Çatalköy, Uğur Mumcu Bulvarı, Ozanköy +90 542 863 068

Ikimiz Restaurant

Cuisines: Turkish

Description: Ikimiz Restaurant is located in the old Turkish quarter of Kyrenia and has a beautiful large garden filled with fragrant flowersrestaurants_of_ North_Cyprus_Ikmiz_Restaurant.jpgand trees illuminated by dim light from handmade ‘courgette’ lights which makes for a romantic and homely feel. The garden alone consists of 9 tables of various sizes and styles, each with their own serene and romantic surroundings. Inside however has a cosy feel decorated again with handmade paintings and art work. Every Friday night the clay oven is brought alive with the traditional Turkish Kleftiko kebab. This is meat and potatoes slow cooked in a handmade clay oven.

Good for: Groups, Special Occasion Dining, Child-friendly

Address: Meseli Sokak No. 22 | Turk Mahallesi, Kyrenia, Cyprus +9 0392 8151589

Jashan's Indian Restaurant North Cyprus

Cuisines: Indian, European

Description: It is really special so that the whole family can enjoy eating out together. restaurants_of_ North_Cyprus_Jashan.jpg Jashan's has Three fully trained and experienced chefs. One specialises in European cuisine, one in Curries and One in Tandoori. They have a wide range of Turkish, French and Italian wines to accompany your meal. They also do the children's favourites (chips and beans with everything) to help create your perfect evening.

Good for: Groups, Special Occasion Dining, Child-friendly

Address: Karaoglanoglu Main Road, Kyrenia 617, Cyprus +90 392 822 2027

Niazi's Restaurant

Cuisines: Turkish, Mediterranean, Barbeque

Description:This wonderful restaurant is a must for holiday makers, the bright and traditional yet modern restaurant offers its diners a wonderful atmosphere and excellent food. In the summer months you have a choice to dine on the decked patio area in front of the restaurant or within the indoor restaurant with very welcoming air conditioning. There is a very large excellent choice of dishes available from beautiful salads, fresh chicken dishes, tender steaks to the full kebab. The trade mark of Niazis is the open fire grill based in the middle of the restaurant where the meze and full kebabs are cooked, which can be interesting to watch.

Good for: Groups, Special Occasion Dining

Address: Kordonboyu Caddesi No :22, Kyrenia, Cyprus +90 392 815 2160

Ezic Peanuts

Cuisines: Seafood, Mediterranean, Turkish, Grill

Description: Ezic Peanuts is a popular place for those who seek refuge in an enjoyable taste and since 2005 it has had its own regular customers. Ezic Peanuts is right beside the Kyrenia port and as it shares the calm atmosphere of the old port, it offers a perfect spot for those seeking refuge after work or during daytime. Ezic Peanuts is an indispensable place as it offers an opportunity to have a meal by the sea for reasonable prices.

Good for: Groups, Special Occasion Dining, Child-friendly, Romantic

Address: Karakız Sk, No:26, Girne +90 392 815 06 92

Archway Restaurant

Cuisines: Mediterranean, Turkish

Description: Archway Restaurant is in the Zeytinlik village of Girne and offers you the traditional delicacies of Cyprus. In the hotel styled according to traditional Cyprus appearance, you will be welcomed by a smiling staff ready to assist you. Just enjoy the taste of unique Cyprus delicacies in your special VIP room, lounging in the wide and spacious terraces looking onto a perfect sea view. We are inviting you a special experience that you will never forget with various grilled fish, tasty kebab and appetizers... Archway Restaurant is only 15 minutes to Girne center and offers you a great option to make the most of your nights...With its authentic atmosphere, Archway promises to give you a night of delicacies that will be burned to your memory forever. The village is Templos and thought to be named after Templar Knights who once resided here.

Good for: Groups, Special Occasion Dining, Romantic

Address: Dereboyu Street | No: 5 Zeytinlik, Kyrenia, Cyprus +39 28160353

Hurdeniz Fish Restaurant

Cuisines: Seafood, Mediterranean, Turkish, Greek

Description: If you want to taste fish , this the place. Order fish mezes , different seafood served cold and hot , and fresh main fish dishes Great service and ambience.Make sure you book before , especially at weekends. Dining options: Outdoor Seating, Seating, Takeout, Waitstaff .

Good for: Groups, Business meetings

Address: Karaoğlanoğlu Cd, Girne, main road, +90 392 816 1233

Cafe George

Cuisines: British, Turkish, Pub

Description: George Cafe is an ideal place in Girne, North Cyprus to spend an evening with friends over a glass of beer, especially on weekends. As any good cafe, The Cafe George offers its guests to taste a wide selection of good beer, nice meals and best Turkish Coffee along with European Cuisine.The pub also has all sports channels along with lots of screens to view - staff is fantastic and very welcoming .

Good for: Groups

Address: Ziya Rizki Cd, Kyrenia, (Kyrenian harbour)

Shayna Beach Club

Cuisines: Seafood, Turkish

Description: Shayna Beach Club & Restaurant could not have a better location. At the glittering bay in Catalkoy, right next to the sea, lies the cosy restaurant adjacent to the sandy beach. It is a clean and beautiful cove, sheltered from the wind and it is a family friendly place where you can spend a whole day whilst having good visibility over your children on the beach. The food is both tasty and affordable, and you can enjoy it in a beautiful environment.

Good for: Groups, Child-friendly, Special Occasion Dining

Address:Dr Fazil Kucuk Sokak,Çatalköy Kyrenia +90 533 839 0200

Ezic Premier

Cuisines: Mediterranean, Turkish, Barbecue, Grill, Contemporary

Description: Due to the temptation of delicious food of the local and world cuisines presented with a unique view and charming decoration, Ezic Premier is a dynamic mixture. Ezic Premier embraces the fabulous view of the Mediterranean offered by the crests of Girne, and it is a great host for different choices thanks to its halls prepared in various concepts.

Good for:Families with children

Address:Bahar Sk. No: 16 / Kyrenia, Kyrenia, +90 392 444 8888

Bellpais Garden Restaurant

Cuisines: Turkish

Description: From one of the customers - “Beautiful setting, excellent staff, we were warmly greeted as we parked our car, and was told that dining was now in the gardens, we were given a wonderful welcome by their excellent staff, all who were polite,and friendly and certainly know how to look after people, we were shown our table and myself and my female cousin were both given flowers.Excellent menu and wine list...everything thing we ate was 1st class , compliments to their wonderful Chef...we have dined here before, but it was the first time for my cousins, and they were overwhelmed by the Beauty,service and food...Well done to you all”

Good for: Special Occasion Dining, Romantic

Address: Crusader Road P.Box 7 Bellapais +90 392-815 60 66

Chinese House

Cuisines: Chinese, Japanese

Description: Chinese House is a wellknown and most popular authentic Chinese Restaurant in Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus . We serve contemporary Hong Kong style Contonese Cuisine and Szechuan Cuisine using only the freshest of ingredients. These are the lighest among all major regional cuisines in China, which means light in salt and oil in take. In addition to Chinese menu, we offer fresh, high quality seafood for Sushi lowers. We offer great dining enjoyment for reasonable prices.

Good for: Special Occasion Dining, Romantic, Groups, Business meetings

Address: Naci Talat Caddesi | Karaoglanoglu, Kyrenia, (main road) 90 392 815 21 30

Anchor Restaurant

Cuisines: Mediterranean, Seafood, Barbecue, Grill

Description: With its central location and the beautiful Mediterranean view, The Anchor A la Carte Restaurant offers you a unique dining experience right in the heart of Kyrenia. For a healthy snack at lunch time, for a special evening for two, for a few drinks accompanied by the goergous Mediterranean Sunset or for a traditional Cypriot Tavern Night experience with live music entertainment, The Anchor awaits its guests on the Dome Hotel's pier.

Good for: Scenic view, Local cuisine

Address: Kordonboyu Street, Kyrenia, ( near Kyrenia Harbour)

Harbour Balikci Fish Restaurant

Cuisines: Mediterranean, Asian, Turkish, Greek

Description: We are located in the hearth of old harbour . You can find freshest sea food , steaks,kebabs,mezzes and tradational tastes for compatitive prices. Moreover, enjoy the atmosphere of night life in a good company. Nice sea breath, good food, nice service, what can be better. Dining options: Late Night, Dinner, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Groups, Business meetings, Special Occasion Dining

Address: Girne Yatlimani, Kyrenia, (Kyrenian Harbour)

Liman Restaurant & Bar

Cuisines: Eropean, Turkish

Description: Stylish design, nice service, amazing sea view. The restaurant is part of Liman Hotel and Casino. The location of restaurant is perfect as it is easy to find and it is facing the sea. All the staff is very proffessional, food is delicious, the atmosphere is awesome.

Good for: Groups, Business meetings, Special Occasion Dining

Address: Jumblatt Cad., 37, Kyrenia, Cyprus +90 392 815 2001

Levant Restaurant

Cuisines: Mediterranean, European

Description: This charming restaurant, nestled in the Kyrenia range in the picturesque village of Karaman (Karmi), provides a peaceful setting for lunch, dinner or just a cool drink on a hot day. It features Mediterranean influenced European food in a casual fine dining atmosphere. The food is excellent; the staff is friendly; the setting idyllic.

Good for: Families with children, Special Occasion Dining, Romantic, Group

Address: center of Karaman village (Karmi) +90 392 822 2559

Green Hill BBQ

Cuisines: Turkish, BBQ

Description: Green Hill restaurant is perfect place for family or group dinners. You can sit inside enjoy nice mountain view and nature outside. You can make the BBQ by yourself as you have the brazier in the middle of the table, or if it is outside near the table. There is children's playground outside. The food is delicious,the staff is friendly. If you want to spend good time on the nature or just have nice BBQ, this place is for you. It is something unique you can experienced on Northern Cyprus.

Good for: Families with children, Special Occasion Dining, Group

Address: Arapkoy, main road +90 533 864 7401

Bollywoods Restaurant and Bar

Cuisines: Mexican, Indian, European

Description: “We regularly visited the old restaurant, The new venue has been redecorated to high standard, bright and airy and as ever, a very warm welcome from Hussein and his staff. Food and service was excellent. looking forward to dining in the garden area next year.Well worth a visit. ”

Good for: Special Occasion Dining, Groups, Business meetings,Child-friendly

Address: Main Road | Opposite Cratos Hotel, Catalkoy, +90 533 848 2010

Kibet Steak House

Cuisines: European

Description: Kib-et Steak House is a facility operating under the Kib-Et Limited Company, using only the quality meat products produced by the company. Our high quality products and services have soon become a brand with style in North Cyprus. Expert butchers select only the most qualitative lamb, veal and beef that are offered to our customers in the Steakhouse Restaurants.

Good for: Group, Child-friendly, business lunch

Address: İskenderun Caddesi Karakum – Girne +9 0533 835 0030

Sandal

Cuisines: Seafood

Description: From the customer: We felt this was the best of the harbour restaurants that we tried. Good swordfish steak and excellent twice cooked chips was typical. Good service and of course the great location makes up for real finesse. Dining options: Dinner, Late Night, Lunch, Outdoor Seating, Reservations

Good for:Group, Child-friendly, business lunch

Address: Kordonboyu Caddesi, No:90, Kyrenia, +90 392 815 8900

Roof Terrace At The Hideaway

Cuisines: International, Barbecue, Europenean, Turkish

Description: We recommend you dine on the hotel’s al-fresco roof top terrace with breathtaking views to take advantage of the extensive menu of wonderful dishes, which will suit every pocket! With stunning views over the Northern Cyprus Mediterranean coastline, The Hideaway Club Hotel boasts a large 22 metre, freshwater pool with plenty of sun-loungers and parasols on the attractive pool terrace. The first class waiter service makes it the ideal place to laze in the sun, take in the stunning views and be pampered.

Good for: Business meetings, Special Occasion Dining, Groups, Romantic

Address: Sehit suleyman recep sokak | Edremit, Kyrenia, +90 542 855 0771

Whiskey joe's Bar Kyrenia

Cuisines: British, Pub, Seafood, European

Description: Restaurant/bar serving fresh homemade english food. Live sports all shown and music/karaoke . From owners: the food is all freshly prepared, wholesome and competitively priced which is what we endeavour to provide. We keep the wood burner on during the winter nights and it really keeps the whole bar area warm on those cold nights providing a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

Good for:Families with children, Bar scene

Address: Aga Cafer Pasa Camii Sokak No7, +90 533 858 2183

L'Artisan

Cuisines: French, British, Cafe

Description: If you are looking for a beautiful box of hand selected homemade chocolates, beautifully presented, as a nice gift for someone, then this is the place to go. The chocolates are delicious. Velvety, smooth coffee. A lovely, relaxed atmosphere. Friendly, helpful proprietor and staff. The cakes - Fresh ingredients, light texture, very interesting variety. it is apparently a popular place for breakfast. Very nice cafe decorated in the french style. The verandah is glassed in so should be usable during the winter. Friendly owners.

Good for: Families with children, breakfast, groups

Address: 24 Kurtulus Caddesi | Behind the Hotel Pia Bella, +90 392 815 0467

Benoz

Cuisines: Mediterranean, Turkish, Greek

Description: Everything home made and totally delicious...fresh organic aubergine from the garden along with the salad that was picked in front of us. Super fresh çaçık and humous and excellent home chips and the best crisp homemade borek ever. Kebabs juicy too. Dining options: Dinner, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Families with children, groups

Address: Alagadi, Gözübüyük +90 533 863 3823

Buffavento Restaurant

Cuisines: Turkish

Description: From the customer: We were taken to this restaurant by friends & we're not disappointed by the food or the stunning views of the Five Finger Mountains. On arrival we were met by the friendly staff & traditional decor & seating, we had mixed meat meze with the traditional bread. The meat on the lamb chops fell off the bone & the chicken was so tender & succulent as was the kebab meat. It can get a little cooler being so high up but the staff offer you a blanket for comfort. All in all a good experience & good value for money I would definitely visit there again when in Kyrenia.

Good for: Business meetings, Special Occasion Dining, Groups, Romantic, Child-friendly

Address: Girne Magusa Dag Yolu, Besparmak Zirvesi +90 533 864 53 88

Saint Tropez

Cuisines: French

Description: Saint Tropez is one of the most popular and successful restaurants in North Cyprus. It has been serving classic French cuisine since 1992. The quality of its food is matched only by the exemplary service at this beautifully-appointed restaurant. Whether a regular diner or a visitor, you know you will always receive special treatment at Saint Tropez.

Good for: Special Occasion Dining, Groups, Romantic

Address: 100 Karaoglanoglu Caddesi, Alsancak - Karavas, (main road) +90 533 851 1847

Calamari

Cuisines: Mediterranean, European, Turkish

Description: A very good restaurant in Lapta enjoying a stunning setting with sea views. Delicious food, very tender steaks beautifully cooked, along with generous helpings of fresh vegetables. Service is very good and attentive. Extraordinary, elegant and enjoyable!

Good for: Special Occasion Dining, Groups, Business meetings,Child-friendly

Address: Fevzi Cakmail Cd, Lapta, +90 392-821-3666

Punjab Restaurant Lapta

Cuisines: Indian

Description: Located near the Celebrity Hotel at Lapta, the Pubjab is hidden from the road behind a row of beautiful Palm trees. The Restaurant is a modern glass fronted building with a large terrace at the front which can accommodate 80 people for dining outside throughout the summer months. Riaz and his team will offer you a delicious range of Indian dishes and large range of European food, to cater for all tastes, they also have a children's menu. The Punjab specialises in Indian cuisine and their Tandoori dishes are outstanding. There are three fully trained chefs, one for each type of dish, all of whom are experts in field. So whether you choose Indian, Tandoori or European you are assured top quality food. Special Events - Sunday Roast On a Sunday you can enjoy a full 'Sunday Roast' with all the usual accompaniments. This is very popular, therefore it is better to book a table to avoid disappointment. Dance Night Throughout the summer, on at least one night week, you can enjoy live music and dance the night away, after you have dined.

Good for: Families with children

Address: Fevzi Cakmak caddesi Lapta +9 0392 821 3131

Yorgo Kasap Restaurant

Cuisines: Mediterranean, European, Indian, Turkish

Description: «Service is perfect, the medzes are perfect, main course is more than perfect. The salad is deserve to be mentioned seperately. I will recommend everyone who will visit the island. Oh, by the way, have i told about the homemade...»

Good for: Groups, Business meetings

Address:St George Square | Korucam, Kormakitis +90 392 724 2060

ManiPeni Pizza

Cuisines: European, Pizza

Description: It is tastefully decorated in the American diner style, and has indoor and decked outdoor seating. They offer an eat-in, takeaway and delivery service within the Kyrenia region. There is an extensive menu, with lots to choose from, including their speciality pizzas, salads and a new Jack Daniels menu. Pizzas range from the traditional Margherita, to their speciality meatball, chicken tenders or full house.There are various sides to choose from such as their speciality buffalo wings, chicken dippers, potato shells or fried mozzarella. Also available are various salads, Chicago sub sandwiches (hot or cold selection) as well as a special Jack Daniels marinated chicken menu.

Good for: Groups, Business meetings, child-friendly

Address: New Harbour Road, Kyrenia 90 392 815 0757-58

Kybele Restaurant & Bar

Cuisines: Mediterranean,Turkish

Description: Kybele Restaurant is one of most famous place in Kyrineia at North Cyprus..Located at the historical area at the Bellapais Monastery. So clean and staff is lovely...served so delicious Mediterranean foods. Very Romantic Place with nice decoration, nice outdoor landscaping and bar. Kybele Restaurant has very nice city and sea views. Best of restaurant for special nights...It's such a Romantic Place....

Good for: Special Occasion Dining, Romantic

Address: Grounds of Bellapais Abbey, Bellapais 00371, +90 392 815 7531

I Belli

Cuisines: Italian, Seafood,Vegetarian, Pizza

Description: Truly Italian food, expertly cooked and served with panache. It’s a contemporary approach to the classical flavour of their homeland, with an emphasis on simple, quality ingredients and home- made breads and pasta. he modern surroundings are softened by colourful handmade ceramics from the famous producers Vietri. Caterina designs everything, from the simplest serving dish to a giant tiled picture which adorns the balcony. Customers may also purchase items. Upstairs there’s a new idea, the Lemon Room which seats up to 14, is available for private hire, although in some ways, it seems a shame to cut oneself off from the lively atmosphere of the main restaurant. The downstairs seating area has sliding doors which reveal extra space to the rear, to be opened on extra busy occasions or to accommodate occasional live music evenings.

Good for: Groups, Business meetings, Special Occasion Dining, Romantic, Child-friendly

Address: Namık Kemal Cd, Girne +90 533 865 4499

Acapulco Resort

Cuisines: different cuisines of the world

Description: Holidays at Acapulco means eating delicious and healthy food. Our exclusive chefs use Tarsan Farm’s fresh and biological products. These foods are the meat of specially nourished animals, and fruits and vegetables are produced without any chemical additives. Our beach side restaurant and poolside bar offer various types of snacks, drinks and cocktails.

Our Tepe (Hill) Restaurant serve delicious breakfasts, open buffets for lunch and dinner and has its own characteristic atmosphere. It is an ideal place for mild winter nights with beautiful sea and mountain views.

Good for: Groups, Families with children

Address: Acapulco Holiday Resort Catalkoy +90 392 444 68 35

Cratos Premium

Cuisines: different cuisines of the world

Description: The luscious tastes of Paris, different cuisines of the world; All at Cratos Premium. Prepared by our gourmets, the menus of Cratos Premium, which include flavors from all around the world, go beyond satisfying your distinguished tastes. At Cratos Premium's gourmet & fine dining restaurants which serve with different concepts, and at the Susa Patisserie - another novelty to the island - where you can order confectionery to celebrate your special days, epic tastes like you never experienced before are waiting just for you.

THE EDEN, MAIN RESTAURANT

Our international cuisine serves our guests exclusive tastes and light menus at open buffets. Our restaurant also hosts Sunday brunches. Breakfast is served between 07:00-10:00 and dinner between 19:00-21:30. Late breakfast is served between 10:00-10:30.

TERRACE BAR

Serves between 10:00-24:00 on the terrace.

THE NORTH SHIELD PUB

Open 24 hours a day, English Premier League and Turkish Super League matches can be watched at the North Shield Pub.

POOL BAR

Service hours are between 09:00-19:00.

SUSA PATTISERIE

Susa Patisserie brings the unique tastes of the art of patisserie in their freshest form to our guests and all Cypriots. Susa Patisserie is one the many novelties introduced by Cratos Premium to the island Its expert chefs will take you on an incredible taste trip to a world made of birthday cakes, cookies and many more sweet & salty delights. At Susa Patisserie you can also find the products of brands like Lindt, Hacı Bekir and Haagen-Dazs.

SEGAFREDO CAFE

Espresso Expert. From the harvesting of the beans to the coffee in your cup... The supervision of every single process for one ultimate goal: To serve Cratos Premium's distinguished guests “the taste of real Italian espresso” under the Segafredo brand. With its exceptionally high quality, excellent equipment, highly skilled team, seamless service and special menu, Segafredo provides Cyprus with the joy only the real taste of coffee can bring.

Good for: Groups, Business meetings, Families with children, Special Occasion Dining, Romantic,

Address: Çatalköy Girne (main road) +90 392 444 42 42

Merit Park (Hotel & Casino)

Cuisines: different cuisines of the world

Main Restaurant

The Kybele Restaurant, our hotel’s main restaurant, is at your service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with its rich buffet menu and 400-person seating capacity.

Fora Fish Restaurant

Intertwined with Merit Park Hotel’s seaside atmosphere, Fora Fish awaits all epicures for business meals and special occasions and promises fish lovers unique delicacies presented with its flawless service. Fora Fish offers various appetizers, seasonal fresh fish, and unmatched flavors with its flawless approach to service. À-la-carte menu. (Reservations required. Subject to additional charges.) From 8:00 pm. to 1:00 am. on Fridays and Saturdays, you may enjoy a fish banquet accompanied by live music.

Sherwood Lobby Bar

At the Sherwood Lobby Bar, you may enjoy an unmatched scenic view of the Mediterranean as you take your afternoon tea with piano music accompaniment, or dance off your weariness to the groove of music from around the world as you have a drink at night.

Beach&Bar Cafe

BEACH BAR: Soak in the view of Cyprus’s marvelous sunset as you sip your drink. 10:00 am.-6:00 pm. All domestic alcoholic drinks and soft drinks are free of charge (Summer Season)

POOL BAR: Hang out at the bar by the poolside in the evenings. 10:00 am.-12:00 am. All domestic alcoholic drinks and soft drinks are free of charge (Summer Season)

Good for: Groups, Business meetings, Families with children, Special Occasion Dining, Romantic

Address: Kervansaray Mevkii Karaoğlanoğlu +90 392 650 25 00

Merit Crystal Cove Hotel & Casino

Cuisines: different cuisines of the world

Description: Five-star service that will have you experiencing Merit’s hospitality and world delicacies to suit your taste are waiting for you to enjoy them.

Crystal Restaurant

The Crystal Restaurant, which serves an open buffet, is on the same floor as the lobby. The Crystal Restaurant, offering options for a wide range of palates ranging from diet food to natural delicacies, the freshest fruits, and organic vegetables, is an unmatched location to enjoy the view of the blue waters of the Mediterranean. Special evenings with gourmet delicacies selected from world cuisines are held on certain days of the week at Crystal Restaurant.

Hasir & Lambusa Restaurant

Located right along the water on our beach, Hasır Restaurant serves a rustic breakfast in the morning. The rustic breakfast is perfect for anyone who wants to savor a real village-style breakfast, offering homemade jams from organic fruits, sun-dried tomatoes, honey in the comb, delicious cream, and bread fresh out of our own oven.

Ottoman Kebab House

Ottoman Kebab House is the only establishment that gives the true delight of Southeastern-style kebab while also allowing you to make your own kebab. And in its private wine cellar, you may find something special that suits your palate.

You can find here even more: Lobby Aquarium Bar, Sunset Bar, Pool Bar, Beach Bar, Hookan Bar

Good for: Groups, Business meetings, Families with children, Special Occasion Dining, Romantic

Address: Alsancak Mevkii Girne +90 392 650 02 00

Salamis Bay Conty

Cuisines: different cuisines of the world

Description: Enjoy the open buffet in our main restaurant, decorated and furnished elegantly with bright and natural colors. Make a great start to the day with delicious hot and cold breakfasts including pancakes, eggs cooked as desired and fresh fruit juices. Our skilled chefs invite you to taste variety of foods from traditional and international cuisines served in an exquisite style to your liking during lunches and dinners. In addition to grilling and cooking facilities, special themed dinners will peak your palatal delight.

Our hotel offers a selection of flavors from different international cuisines to appeal to palatal delight of all of our guests.

Food: Breakfast, lunch and dinner including flavors from the North Cyprus and international cuisines, and night soup are served in Selçuk Restaurant in buffet format.

Drink: Our all-inclusive holiday guests can use all domestic liquors and non-alcoholic drinks included in the concept between 08:00 – 24:00 free of charge. Imported liquors, freshly squeezed juices, ice cream, all drinks not included in the concept, energy drinks, all bottled drinks, A’la carte menus, 24-hour room service, Turkish coffee are the paid ones. Our guests staying out of all-inclusive concept can buy all drinks with extra fees.Minibar: All-inclusive guests are served 1 unit water daily free of charge. All other minibar drinks are paid.

Restaurants

Selçuk Restaurant ve Room service.

Bars

The Lobby Bar, Club Saluna, Service Bar (at meal times), Vitamin Bar and minibar.

Good for: Groups, Business meetings, Families with children, Special Occasion Dining, Romantic

Address: Gazi Mağusa, +90 392 378 82 00

Rocks Hotel & Casino

Cuisines: different cuisines of the world

La Habanera

Casual elegance, stylish appeal. Open round the clock 24/7, offers Italian and traditional dishes of high quality with most vegetables supplied from our own farm. The "charming" staff take pleasure in creating a relaxed, convivial environment for the enjoyment of serious good food. Live music most nights.

L'Hirondelle

For BUFFET DINNER, Rocks invites you to sumptuous array offreshlymade cold and hot dishes and deserts which will redefine your nation of buffet dining. Known as the best BUFFET BREAKFAST in Cyprus. The freshest ingredients mostlyfrom our own farm are brought together in an exciting display of taste and talent.

Rocks Cafe

Relax and indulge yourself with lovely cakes, pastries and savouries, with a cappucino or earl grey while reading the newspapers. For quick and easy, we offer various omelettes, freshly prepared sandwiches, pizzas and burgers.

Onyx Bar

Most fashionable American style bar restaurant in North Cyprus. Wide selection menu including Mexican specials and international tastes. DJ set on after hours.

Pool bar and restaurant

Beach front, set in 1800 m² of comfortable environment, serving special drinks and liquors with delicious meals and sandwiches to enhance and enjoy your day.

Good for: Groups, Business meetings, Families with children, Special Occasion Dining, Romantic

Address: Kordon Boyu Street Girne +90 392 650 0400

Grand Pasha Hotel & Casino

Cuisines: different cuisines of the world

Description:

“Experience distinct flavours”

Pearl of the Mediterranean at the crossroads of Eastern and Western cultures, North Cyprus has a cuisine that is rich in varieties. Enjoy fantastic flavours prepared by our master chefs at Vrisi and Harissa A la Carte restaurants offering select examples from Mediterranean and World cuisines.

Vrisi Restaurant

A journey full of exquisite flavours awaits you at the Vrisi Restaurant where a generous buffet breakfast and dinner prepared by the experienced Grand Pasha culinary team is served.

Harissa A la Carte Restaurant

Be it a business supper with a chic presentation in an elegant atmosphere, a special celebration or a private dinner, Harissa A la Carte Restaurant is the dining spot of the city with its Mediterranean gourmet cuisine and distinct choices ideal to your taste…

Irish Pub

Enjoy best times of the day in an authentic atmosphere at the Irish Pub.

Pool Bar

Grand Pasha Pool Bar for refreshments at the gazebos by the pool.

Buffavento Teracce Bar

An ideal atmosphere overlooking to the magnificent harbour view to spend the best moments of summer with your friends or family.

Good for: Groups, Business meetings, Special Occasion Dining, Romantic

Address: Iskenderun Cd. Tarsus SK. Girne +90 392 650 6600

The Arkin Colony Hotel

Cuisines: different cuisines of the world

Description: Our Heritage Lounge is the place to meet during the day or to gather for pre-dinner drinks. A great place to enjoy the buzz of Cypriot life or to go over the days events with friends or family. Our waiters are here to serve you snacks or afternoon tea during the day or bar service at any time. In the short winter shake off the chill of the evening around the log fire.

The Heritage Lounge

On the ground floor is the ideal spot for coffee, tea or a drink from the bar. With an extensive snacks menu and pastries trolley this is just the place to take a short break or meet up with friends.

The Piazza Courtyard

Light snacks and beverages are also available in the Piazza Courtyard with the added ambience of its Ottoman surroundings. Enjoy a break here and feel that you have truly arrived in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Piazza is also available for private functions and may be used with the adjacent Harvey and James entertaining suites for larger events. The Colony is happy to advise on event management with full catering services and entertainment.

The Colony Premier Restaurant

Offers a choice of Continental or full breakfast menus throughout the year. For lunch and dinner, select from our extensive buffet or dine a la carte - don't forget to ask for our wine menu featuring specially selected wines from around the world. The Premier Restaurant is also available for banqueting functions catering to small and large parties.

Vista Terrace Restaurant

Dining under the stars at the Vista Terrace Restaurant is a magical experience. High above the busy evening streets you will see the sun go down as night falls over the mountains. Relax at the end of the day whilst enjoying the finest cuisine in North Cyprus.

Misty Bar

The rooftop Misty Bar serves all types of beverages, including the special cocktail of the day. Snacks are available at all times and our light lunch menu offers a wide choice of hot and cold dishes.

Good for: Groups, Business meetings, Special Occasion Dining, Romantic

Address: Ecevit Cd, Girne +90 392 815 1518

CENTRAL KYRENIA

The Arkin Colony Hotel & Casino

Located in the heart of downtown Kyrenia, the five star Colony Hotel lies between the Kyrenia mountains and the blue Mediterranean Sea. Built in the colonial style of the island's past, The Colony Hotel Cyprus is a haven of tranquility and opulence amidst the bustle of this busy town.

The Colony Hotel just oozes class, from the grand entrance to the elegant rooms, and the effortless way the staff make sure your stay is both comfortable and memorable. This is an international style hotel which caters for all your 5 star holiday needs, from a rooftop swimming pool to a treatment in the spa, entertainment in the lounge to cocktails on the terrace. Just outside the front door is Kyrenia, with all the major sites within easy walking distance.

Every room at the Colony is designed with comfort in mind, from the colonial styled furnishings to carefully designed lighting. All rooms have air conditioning, a proper bathroom, cable TV and a twice daily maid service, you can even enjoy a butler service on request. Leave your shoes out and they'll be shined overnight, or treat your summer clothes to a mid-holiday clean using the laundry service.

For an extra touch of luxury and more space, upgrade to a Club room, or a Suite with its own separate sitting area. Non-smoking rooms are available on request, as are baby-sitting services - just ask reception for details.

Also: Rooftop Swimming Pool with Great Views, Local Beaches within Walking Distance, Delicious Dining Options all Day Long, Five Star Facilities, 24 Hours a Day 5 Star Spa with Chocolate Massages , Straightforward Transfers from Flights to Ercan.

Adress: Ecevit Cd, Girne +90 392 815 1518

http://www.thecolonycyprus.com/

Savoy Ottoman Palace Hotel & Casino

Savoy Ottoman Palace Hotel is like no other hotel in North Cyprus, designed to give every guest a taste of traditional Ottoman hospitality at its best. The Savoy Ottoman Palace glistens and gleams with marble, and the staff make you feel as special as a sultan from the moment you arrive. This a hotel for anyone who wants to stay somewhere unusual but also wants 5 star luxury all the way!

Beach Access & Swimming Pools

Central swimming pool in enclosed courtyard, sun terraces, sun loungers, large adjustable sun umbrellas. Private sandy beach at nearby Escape Beach Club with sun loungers, sun umbrellas, water sports, bar, snack bar & restaurant, lawned area behind.

Accomodation Types

Deluxe hotel rooms, Pasha Suites, Sultan Suites All rooms include: air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms with jacuzzi bath and beauty products, interactive LCD tv, wifi (on request), sea or mountain views, mini bar, telephone with voicemail, safety deposit box, hair dryer. Pasha suites have separate living area, tv in bedroom and living room. Sultan Suites have king size bed, ensuite jacuzzi and ensuite sauna, and caretaker's room adjoining dining area. Non-smoking, connecting, and disabled access rooms available.

Restaurants and Bars

Sarayburnu restaurant serving Ottoman and Lebanese cuisine, Great Ottoman Pub & Bistro, Lobby bar, Turquoise pool bar serving drinks & snacks (summer only), Vitamin bar in spa.

Also: 24hr room service, Laundry and dry cleaning service, Children's playroom, Doctor on call, Business services, Childcare services (on request),Health Club with Turkish Bath,Steam room, sauna, massage service, fitness centre,Vitamin bar, Water sports at beach area include sea bikes, windsurfing, scuba diving, paddle boats, Entertainment includes casino and live music.

Address: Ziya Rızkı Cd, Girne 98010 +90 392 444 3000

http://www.savoyhotel.com.tr/

The Rocks Hotel

Rocks Hotel is an elegant and stylish hotel in the heart of Kyrenia with a superb sea-front position, and excellent restaurants. With the delights of Kyrenia on your doorstep, the Rocks Hotel is idea for a city break in winter or summer. Five star service, elegant architecture, superb seafront location - the Rocks Hotel has it all. Whether you want to relax by the pool, swim in the sea or explore historic Kyrenia town, the Rocks Hotel staff will go that extra mile to make sure your stay is memorable for all the right reasons.

Seafront Swimming Pool and Sea Platforms

Stroll from the refined interiors of the Rocks Hotel out onto the terrace, and you'll instantly start to relax. The elegant curved swimming pool with its ornate bridge and cascading fountain invites you to take a dip, (staff will hand you your towel)) while the designer rattan daybeds beckon you to soak up the sun for a morning.

Just beyond the pool and its swim up bar is the Mediterranean Sea, with views to the far horizon, and comfortable chairs and tables placed in just the right position to catch cool sea breezes in summer. Or swim out to the hotel's platform set in the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

Spacious Rooms with Classic Design

Rocks Hotel doesn't do standard rooms - you come straight in at Deluxe standard! In your elegantly furnished room, you can relax in air-conditioned comfort and watch TV with a drink from the mini bar, perhaps in your complimentary slippers! Your room will also have wifi access that reaches out onto the pretty semi-balcony, perfect for sunshine selfies with a Deluxe Sea View room. Why not treat yourself to a Suite, with a separate living room, a 42" plasma TV, DVD player and a jacuzzi bath.

Relaxing Spa and Health Centre

Pamper yourself with a relaxing massage or revitalizing skin treatment at the Rock's own exclusive spa. Let expert masseurs gently massage away stiff shoulder, necks or feet, or de-stress your entire body with hot stone therapy or a classic Thai full body massage. Clean your skin with a marine algae wrap or try the indulgent chocolate therapy! Relax the Turkish way with a traditional Turkish Bath session, followed by a nice hot cup of tea. Fitness fans can work out in the well-equipped gym with the help of trained instructors

Evening Entertainment and Events

The Rocks Hotel regularly plays host to Turkish and international acts in its casino, and you're welcome to have a try at the tables and slots yourself. In the evenings, head for the Onyx Bar, the hotel's buzzing Open air-style disco with resident DJ and a Mexican flavoured menu that is the perfect accompaniment for a tequila or a cool beer.

Enjoy live music in the hotel's Italian restaurant, venture out into the streets of Kyrenia to discover the vibrant bar scene for yourself.

Address: Kordon Boyu Street Girne +90 392 650 0400

http://www.rockshotel.com/

British Hotel

The British Hotel is the best boutique hotel in the Kyrenia Harbour area, with a friendly welcome and an unbeatable location. At GNC, we highly recommend The British Hotel for those who want to be right in the centre of Kyrenia, staying in a hotel with genuine character. The British Hotel is the pick of the crop of Kyrenia harbour hotels, with views straight across the harbour to the sea beyond, and up to the mountains behind the town. With clean, tidy rooms all with en suite bathroom, this is a quaint, traditional 3 star hotel in Kyrenia where everything is literally on your doorstep.

3 Star Hotel, 5 Star Location

Most tourists who come to Kyrenia enjoy the quaint harbour area, with Kyrenia Castle dating back to venetian times as your backdrop.

Start the day with breakfast on the hotel roof terrace overlooking the fishing boats bobbing in the harbour. A boat trip is a must during your stay.

Step out of the hotel's front door and you're just metres away from a morning coffee and baklava, a tasty lunch, or a delicious dinner. Kyrenia's shops, craft galleries and hidden museums are there for you to explore in the winding medieval streets.

Best of all, you can take in the history of Kyrenia Castle and explore this mighty fortress. Cool off in one of the many rooms within the castle walls.

Balconies with Sea or Mountain Views

The British Hotel is a traditional 'home from home' style hotel with eighteen rooms over four floor, all served by a lift, and all with en-suite bathroom. Rooms are surprisingly contemporary in decor with feature wall wallpapers, and rich purple fabrics. Second and third floor rooms have a balcony or terrace, and the third floor rooms enjoy super views over the harbour or mountains. All rooms have air conditioning, satellite tv and a mini bar.

No Hire Car Required

At the British Hotel, every part of Kyrenia is within walking distance, and that includes excursions and activities. Most scenic boat trips, fishing trips and scuba diving excursions start from the harbour, so you can walk down and join your trip. Equally, walk to any of the major pickup points for inland excursions including day trips to Nicosia, paragliding in the mountains, exploring the Crusader castles or even 4x4 safaris in the Karpas Peninsula. Best of all, you can walk to local restaurants and bars, visit a local beach, or have a flutter at a top Kyrenia casino and not need a taxi home afterwards!

Address: Şht. Erdal Akça Sk, Girne +90 392 815 2240

http://www.britishhotelcyprus.com/

Dome Hotel

A ‘grande dame’ of Cyprus hotels, remembered with nostalgia by the generations of British guests who have stayed here. The Dome has a stately 70 years of history, and has long been the focal point of social life in Kyrenia. Quietly elegant and quaintly charming, at the Dome you're back in an era of respectful service and gentile elegance. Afternoon tea is served in the lounge, a pianist plays gently during cocktail hour, and nobody rushes anywhere.

With its own private seafront area, and Kyrenia's historic harbour just a short walk through town, the Dome Hotel is ideal for those who like to enjoy life at a leisurely pace.

Sun Terraces that Stretch to the Sea

The Dome Hotel enjoys prime position at the end of its own promentary stretching out into the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Sit on your bedroom balcony and soak up the views, or stroll down to the terrace for a drink accompanied by the gentle lapping of waves. Soak up the sun on the upper terraces, or enjoy the sea breezes on the lower terraces right next to the water's edge.

Elegant Rooms with Sea Views

The Dome Hotel gracefully arcs towards the sea, so many rooms have an uninterrupted sea view (the others enjoy mountain views). Throw open the doors and sit on the balcony with a drink from the well-stocked minibar or make yourself a fresh cup of tea or coffee (facilities on request). You'll also find a flat screen LCD satellite TV with BBC channels, a safety deposit box and a hairdryer, as well as air conditioning and complimentary wifi, so you can email the family or share your holiday photos.

Also: Smart Freshwater Swimming Pool and Natural Sea Water Pool, Space to Relax, Inside and Out, Buffet Breakfasts and Delicious Dinners, Walking Distance to Everything, Shorter Transfers from Flights to North Cyprus

Address: Kordon Boyu street, PK6, Nicosia, Kyrenia, Cyprus +90 392 815 24 54;

http://www.dome-cyprus.com/

Pia Bella Hotel

Pia Bella Hotel is a small, friendly and welcoming hotel, with a relaxed family atmosphere. It's 10 minute walking distance to Kyrenia Harbour, Kyrenia Castle. Several shops and beaches nearby. The Hotel has a rear garden with an outdoor swimming pool with a children's section and also a lovely pool bar. A beautiful garden restaurant which serves a la carte menu and also traditional Cypriot cuisine. It prides itself on exceeding its clients' expectations, and because of this it has many repeat guests.

Lush Gardens with Two Swimming Pools

Step out of the hotel and you'll be poolside in just a few steps, shaded by waving palm trees and with plenty of sun loungers to choose from. Choose the larger rectangular pool with separate children's area for lots of sunshine and space, or bask in the quieter atmosphere of the 'curvy' pool accessed through the garden, complete with swim up pool bar, separate children's area and a pool hoist. Pool towels are also provided.

Buffet Breakfast and Dinners Under The Stars

You're never far from a cool drink or a tasty snack at the Pia Bella, either at the pool/garden bar, or the main hotel bar. Start the day with a plateful of buffet breakfast beside the pool, with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice and the sunlight filtering through the trees.

Indulge in a spot of lunch from the garden bar beside the pool, in the shade of the flower-covered pergolas, or on the terrace. Enjoy delicious à la carte dinners at the Mezzanine restaurant, serving Cypriot and Ottoman inspired dishes dinners either inside the cool restaurant, or al fresco under the night sky. If you fancy something different for dinner, the harbourside restaurants of Kyrenia are just a short walk away.

Live Entertainment and Games to Enjoy

The Pia Bella likes guests to have a great time, so they stage regular Cyprus nights and live entertainment during the summer season at the Garden Bar. Kids will enjoy the table tennis, darts, billiards and table football, plus the selection of board games at Cafe Bella. Sports fans of all ages can cheer on their heroes on live Sky Sports relays with drink, or watch the real thing just across the road on a grass football pitch! If you fancy a flutter, the hotel casino is just next door, or for a more relaxing experience, massages are available - just ask reception for details.

Address: İskenderun Caddesi No:14, Kyrenia 9000 +90 392 650 5000

http://www.piabella.com/

Grand Pasha Hotel & Casino

Grand Pasha Hotel is located in the heart of Kyrenia and lies between the Mountains of North Cyprus and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Grand Pasha Hotel & Casino & Spa is a wonderful mix of Western comfort, and Eastern styling, with five star service all the way. The Grand Pasha Hotel aims to recreate the opulence and elegance of a Eastern Pasha's palace with Western contemporary styling and 21st century facilities. A particular favourite with the GNC team, this new hotel is both welcoming and richly decorated. There’s a big emphasis on good customer service; nothing is too much trouble for the friendly staff.

Luxurious Rooms with Well Lit Bathrooms

The standard rooms at the Grand Pasha rooms are beautifully decorated and furnished with sylish fabrics to give a feeling of luxury without clutter or cramping the space. (As GNC team says, you walk in and you think "Yes, I really like this!")

Two Swimming Pools to Enjoy

Start your day with a swim in the outdoor pool of the Grand Pasha or take a refreshing dip anytime. The Pool Bar is open 24 hours for refreshments too. The attractive blue-tiled indoor pool is part of the spa, and the perfect place to have a swim and a quick snooze on the comfortable day beds! If you prefer seaside to poolside, nearby Vuni Palace Beach is just a short stroll away or take the courtesy shuttle service.

Grand Deluxe Relaxing Spa

The hotel's Spa and Wellness centre is the ideal place to unwind with a massage. Expert masseurs offer Bali, deep tissue, sports and orthopaedic massages to suit your needs, whether for de-stressing or just soothing tired sightseeing muscles! You can soak away your stress in the traditional tiled Turkish bath, steam your skin clean in the steam room, and detox in the sauna. Rejuvenate mind and body with a variety of beauty treatments, including reflexology.

International Class Casino

Even if blackjack or roulette are not your thing, a visit to the hotel's casino is an exciting night out. Dine in the casino restaurant and soak up the glitzy atmosphere, or enjoy special shows and live music from international artists. The casino also has the latest slot machines, so you have a flutter for just a few lira.

Address: Address: Iskenderun Cd. Tarsus SK. Girne +90 392 650 6600

http://www.grandpasha.com/en-US/about-grand-pasha

Oscar Resort Hotel

Oscar Resort Hotel in Kyrenia is a firm favourite with families, who return here year after year, Kids enjoy the aquaslides, the 3 swimming pools and the sandy beach at the end of the hotel's lovely gardens, all just a short 'road train' ride from Kyrenia town centre.

Four Star Resort that's Perfect for Families

For a traditional family holiday in the North Cyprus sunshine, with lots for everyone to enjoy, the Oscar Resort Hotel is an ideal choice. Kids will love everything this well-run and popular hotel has to offer, including the sandy beach and shallow waters. With Kyrenia town within walking distance, there's always something new to explore too.

Three Fun Swimming Pools with Aqua Slides

Holidays at the Oscar Resort Hotel centre on spending fun times getting wet! The half Olympic pool invites kids to splash around in their own children's section, while you relax on a sun lounger with a comfy mattress under the shade of a parasol. All the family can take a dip to the swim-up pool bar, or enjoy a snack from the poolside restaurant. Chances are your kids will head straight for the activity pool to whoosh and whoop their way down the two water flumes (aqua slides). They can take on friends and family in a bumper boat in the new wave pool. Afterwards, everyone can enjoy a relaxing bubble in the outdoor Jacuzzi, before heading down through the waving palm trees to the hotel's manmade beach.

More Fun for Kids at Oscars

The Oscar hotel group really does like to keep their younger guests happy during the summer months. Kids have their own kids club, and there are games you can all play together including billiards, darts, table tennis and hard court tennis. They'll also love the road train that runs three times a day into Kyrenia (free of charge and you can't miss it, it's bright yellow!). There's also wifi in the lobby areas (charge applies) so they can play games or catch up with friends at home.

Also: Hotel Rooms and Studio Rooms with Views, Buffet Breakfasts and Outdoor Dining, Spa and Wellness Centre Open Until Midnight, Summer Evening Entertainment You'll All Enjoy, Family Friendly Transfer Times

Address: No:16, Hasan Esat Işık Sk, Girne 4499 +90 392 815 4801

http://www.oscar-resort.com/

Ship Inn Hotel

Conveniently situated just over one mile from Kyrenia, The Ship Inn nestles in a quiet location amongst olive trees with impressive views of the Five Finger mountains. With spacious hotel rooms and garden rooms (villas) to choose from, the Ship Inn offers terrific value for money holidays in this quiet and calm location.

Choose a main hotel room with en-uite at the Ship Inn, and you'll discover a bright, light and airy room with balcony or patio, plus views across the pool or the surrounding countryside. At night the views of St Hilarion castle lit up on the mountainside are amazing. Relax in air-conditioned comfort in front of the satellite TV with a fresh cup of tea or coffee, or a cool drink from the minibar.

The garden rooms at the Ship Inn nestle amongst the rich planting, and are ideal if you want more privacy and easy access to the swimming pool. If you're bringing older kids on holiday, ask the GNC team about interconnecting ground floor garden rooms, so everyone can have their own space and still be together. The Ship Inn also has six two-bedroom villas which are ideal for families, with two bedrooms upstairs, a kitchen a sitting room and two toilets. Airy and spacious with sliding door access to the grounds, these villas are a real home from home. The outside swimming pool at The Ship Inn invites you to spend time lazing on a sunlounger or taking a cooling dip, while the kids splash about in their own separate area in safety. There's lots of space around the pool, so you don't have to squeeze past people with your cool drinks or snacks from the pool bar. You can even browse the internet by the pool using the free wifi - just make sure you're near the pool bar for best reception. (There's wifi in the lobby, restaurant and main bar areas too.)

Address: İstiklal Sk, Karaoğlanoğlu +90 392 815 6701

www.theshipinn.com

Altinkaya Holiday Resort

Altinkaya Holiday Village is a relaxing, family run hotel on the road to Bellapais with spacious hotel rooms set in delightfully lush, well-tended gardens. With great views down the hillside to Kyrenia and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, Altinkaya Holiday Village is a clean, comfortable and friendly place to relax. From the moment you arrive in your private taxi transfer, you're assured of a warm welcome at this popular family-run hotel in North Cyprus. The Altinkaya Holiday Village staff will always be on hand to help you, and their 'can do' attitude ensures your stay will be relaxing, comfortable and hassle-free.

Room to Stretch Out and Relax on Your Holiday

Choose from deluxe rooms in the main hotel, or twin bed studio villas and bungalows (two-level units with gallery bedroom) set in the lush green gardens. The main hotel rooms at the Altinkaya are all on one level and include en suite bathroom, air conditioning, minibar and satellite TV. The studio villas are set in the spacious gardens for your own space in the North Cyprus sun. Set apart from the main hotel, the Residence bungalows are particularly popular with younger families, groups and single holidaymakers. Each bungalow has a separate living area and has small kitchenette with fridge.

Open Buffet Breakfasts and Poolside BBQs

The open buffet breakfast at the Altinkaya Holiday Village is a feast for eyes and tastebuds, and is served in the hotel's Armonia restaurant. In the evening, this a la carte restaurant is renowned for its Turkish Cypriot cuisine, with rooftop dining and great views of the twinkling lights of the coastline below and the stunning Bellapais Abbey.

Entertainment at the Altinkaya Holiday Village

Enjoy live music entertainment during the summer on Thursdays with a BBQ, Free wifi access in the lobby and hotel rooms only.

10 Mins Walk or Free Shuttle Bus into Kyrenia

With a free shuttle bus to Shanya beach club (entrance fee applies) or down into Kyrenia town, you can shop in the medieval streets, explore the mighty castle, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a harbourside café, and be back by the hotel pool in time for a late afternoon cocktail! It’s just a five-minute walk to nearby shops including two supermarkets.

Address: Kurtuluş Caddesi, Ozanköy +90 392 815 5001

http://www.altinkaya-cyprus.com/

East Area

High Life Hotel

High Life is a courteous and friendly family-run establishment. It is in a quiet and peaceful part of the picturesque town of Girne, set in a beautiful landscaped garden. There is a beautiful beach and a spacious swimming pool, with a children's section and a pool bar for drinks and snacks. High Life's location gives our guests access to the crystal clear waters of Karakum beach. A short walk from this cosy beach, you'll find a uniquely shaped rock base just perfect for diving or fishing.

There is an extraordinary indoor-outdoor restaurant, serving authentic Cypriot food, mezes, kebabs, sweets and a bar that offers superb cocktails. There is a pleasant terrace along the sea front where you can enjoy your food and drinks. The High Life complex consists of twin and double bedrooms, all comfortably furnished with private bath/shower, WC, air-conditioning system, hair-dryers, kettles, telephone, satellite TV and mini bar. All rooms are on B.B, H.B, F.B basis. All rooms have balconies with spectacular sea and mountain views. The distance between the High Life complex and Girne town centre, is approximately 2 miles.

Address: Akdeniz Sokak No: 25, Karakum, Girne +90 533 871 7273

http://www.highlifecyprus.com/

Cratos Premium Hotel

Cratos Premium Hotel glitters like a new jewel in Catalkoy, just east of Kyrenia town, a five star hotel that treats you like a celebrity from the moment you arrive. With every facility you need for a glamorous week in the sun, the Cratos Premium defines a new standard in luxury North Cyprus hotels. You can't help feel like a star when you drive under the archway, past the lion statue and leaping fountains to this most luxurious of North Cyprus hotels. Nothing about the Cratos Premium Hotel is subtle or understated; this hotel is about luxury, indulgence and having the best time of your life!

A New Definition of Standard Rooms

As you'd expect, even the Standard Room at the Cratos Premium Hotel are anything but standard. Every designer-styled room has a bathroom with proper bath, wifi, central air conditioning and a 32" HD plasma tv with over 60 channels. So, you can lie back and watch favourite movies in your complimentary bathrobe with a drink from the minibar, or a snack from room services and really chill out! If you want to upgrade, Superior Rooms have more space, Suites have a separate bedroom and living room, and the Presidential Suite is, well, presidential in size!

Swim in the Pools, Relax by the Sea

At the Cratos Premium Hotel, stretch out in the large outdoor swimming pool or sunbathe on the poolside terraces. There is a separate children's outdoor swimming pool, and a heated indoor pool for winter breaks in North Cyprus. Head down to the seafront to Port Cratos, a specially built beach area exclusive to the hotel with a superb white sandy beach and lagoon. The beach is perfect for a cooling dip after some serious lazing about on sunloungers or just a little gentle paddling. Port Cratos is much more than a hotel beach, it's a destination in its own right, with its own bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

Superb Spa and Luxurious Treatments

After all that activity, you deserve some serious pampering. The Bali-inspired spa offers the finest eastern massages including Indian, Nepalese, Thai and Shiatsu massages, plus specialist massages such as anti-cellulite and hot stone massages. The spa includes a traditional hammam or Turkish bath, sauna, steam room, and treatments on offer include special therapies and facials. You can even hire a private spa area with sauna, Turkish bath, steam bath, massage room and tv! There is a well-equipped a fitness centre with gym equipment and personal trainers available, plus yoga, pilates and aerobics classes.

Address: Sınır Sk, Ozanköy Bld./Girne/Kıbrıs +90 392 444 42 42

http://www.cratospremium.com/

Bella View Boutique Hotel

Bella View Hotel in Bellapais is a charming boutique hotel that feels more like a country house than a hotel! With magnificent views from the swimming pool and terraces down the mountainside to the coast beyond, and a ‘no children under 16’ policy, the Bella View Hotel truly is a very special place.

Designed as a private villa before becoming a boutique hotel, it feels like staying in someone's very elegant home, from the stately home feel of the lobby with its oil painting and wrought iron staircase, to the welcoming sitting room. With courteous and genuine service to match the elegant décor, this is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the everyday, yet with every modern convenience, including WiFi in the lobby area. This hotel is ideal for couples looking for a romantic retreat or getaway, as this is an over 16's only hotel.

Also: Elegant Bedrooms with Luxury Furnishings, Wonderful Views of Sea and Mountains, Spa-Style Salt Water Swimming Pool, Relaxed Dining at the Bella View, Walking Distance of Bellapais, Easy Access to Kyrenia, Walk in the Mountains, Swim in the Sea

Address: Bellapais Yolu No:2 Ozankoy, Girne +90 392 816 1155

http://www.bellaview.net/

The Olive Tree Hotel

The elegant Olive Tree Hotel is a great place in a beach area of Kyrenia .North_Cyprus_Hotels_Olive_tree.jpg The a la carte restaurant serves Turkish dishes. Guests can relax in the snack bar serving refreshing drinks. For business guests Olive Tree Hotel offers a business center and a photocopier, while leisure travelers can enjoy currency exchange, a hairdresser and a safe deposit box.

Guests can find a library, an indoor heated pool and a tennis court and make use of shiatsu massage and a sauna on the premises. Guests can go in for billiards, darts and table tennis at the hotel. 25 minutes away from Abbaye de la Paix, Bellapais Monastery and Girne Castle. Just 25 minutes from Ercan airport.

Facilities – Hairdresser, Television with Cable, Mini-Bar, Air Conditioning, Snack Bar, Shops in Hotel, 24-Hour Front Desk, Safety Deposit Box

Activities: Volleyball, Outdoor Swimming Pool, Indoor Swimming Pool, Kids Club, Tennis, Basketball court, Children's Swimming Pool, Fitness Centre, Sauna, Tennis Court, Library, Billiards, Children's Playground, Massage

Address: İsmet İnönü Caddesi No 89/A Catalköy Girne, Kyrenia +90 392 824 42 00

http://hotelolivetree.com/

Bellapais Monestery Village

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Bellapais Monastery Village offers 4 star comforts with 5 star views and service, and many guest come back year after year. Soak up the sunshine beside the swimming pool, or simply enjoy the views down to the clear blue Mediterranean Sea below. Then, enjoy dining under the stars on the terrace with the lights of Kyrenia below spread like a jewelled carpet - magnificent!

Bellapais Monastery Village - East Kyrenia

In beautiful village of Bellapais. 30 mins transfer time from Ercan Airport, 2 miles from Kyrenia town centre, delightful mountainside location.

Beach Access and Swimming Pool

Two swimming pools, one larger square pool and shallow circular pool, sun terrace, sun loungers, sun parasols. Indoor swimming pool. 10 mins drive to local beaches in and around Kyrenia town.

Accomodation Types

16 hotel rooms, 2 suites, 45 villa bungalows (2 storeys) All rooms include: air conditioning, private balcony or terrace, ensuite bathroom with WC and shower, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities, mini bar, small in-room safe, and direct dial telephone. Suites also feature jacuzzi bath.

Restaurants and Bars

A la carte restaurant with dining terrace and superb views of the coastline, pool bar serving drinks and snacks, lobby bar, roof bar.

http://www.bellapaismonasteryvillage.com/

Bellapais Gardens Hotel

Bellapais Gardens Hotel is a boutique style accommodation offering 17 bungalows meeting the highest standards. Colourful gardens of this North Cyprus boutique hotel and charming views of the Mediterranean will make you feel relaxed. All rooms at Bellapais Gardens Hotel are decorated with exposed wooden beams, neutral colours, and wooden furniture. All rooms have a TV, a minibar, and an en suite bathroom. Guests can enjoy a variety of local Cypriot and international dishes at the restaurant, which features a cosy fireplace.

Address: Bellapais, Kyrenia +90 392-815 60 66 / 815 76 68

http://www.bellapaisgardens.com/

Villa Meadow

Villa Meadow is self-catering type of accommodation located in the quiet village of Ozankoy, only 10 minutes away from Kyrenia centre. Being perfect option for those seeking for more privacy during their North Cyprus holiday, these great rental villa with three bedrooms will welcome parties up to 6 people. You can at the same time enjoy all the services offered in the residence of this villa site and enjoy tranquillity and privacy in your own villa. Beaches, restaurants & supermarket can be reached within a few minutes drive.

Villa Bella View specifications

This private villa with a shared swimming pool at the site and landscaped gardens features three bedrooms so can accommodate a party of up to six people. There are two double bedrooms on the first floor and one twin bedroom on the ground floor. Lounge area is attached to an open-plan kitchen. Two lovely balconies can be found downstairs and upstairs with fantastic panoramic views. Villa Meadow has private garden area and BBQ facilities. Meadow is equipped with wireless Internet that is included into the price.

The shared 12m x 6m pool is located right in the middle of the villas' site; the depth varies from 1m to 2m. There are 3 bathrooms with overhead showers.

Address: Ozankoy, Kyrenia

Malpas Hotel

Malpas Hotel is one of our most popular North Cyprus 5 star holiday hotels. Book your holiday at this curvaceous hotel in Kyrenia with Go North Cyprus and enjoy a luxurious stay for the very best rates available. This popular five star hotel is beautiful both inside and out thanks to its hillside setting with the mountain behind and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea below. Set above the coastline, the main building curves around the hillside so every room and suite in the main hotel enjoys a superb mountain or sea view, while the mini villas and bungalows set in the lovely gardens enjoy superb sea views.

5* Hotel with Magnificent Views

This popular five star hotel is beautiful both inside and out thanks to its hillside setting with the mountain behind and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea below. Set above the coastline, the main building curves around the hillside so every room and suite in the main hotel enjoys a superb mountain or sea view, while the mini villas and bungalows set in the lovely gardens enjoy superb sea views.

Large Pool and Private Seaside Pier

It's hard to resist the large swimming pool at the Malpas Hotel, with its spacious sun terraces, sun loungers, parasols and the tempting clink of ice in glasses from the poolside bar! The pool has two circular sections divided by a pretty bridge, so you never feel crowded whether you swim or not. So, why not enjoy a morning by the pool, then an afternoon at the hotel's exclusive Cornaro Beach Club, free for hotel guests. Catch the frequent shuttle bus down to the Club to swim in the sea, stroll along the private jetty, or just lie back on a canopied daybed to the relaxing sound of waves lapping the shore. Enjoy the thrill of water sports, or the tasty snacks and drinks available at the beach front restaurant and bar.

Also: Delicious Dining Day and Night, Beach Parties and Casino Nights, Sparkling Spa and Wellness Centre, Easy Transfers from Ercan Airport

Address: Cesur Sokak No:4 Kyrenia, (Ozankoy) +90 392 650 3000

http://www.malpashotel.com/

Acapulco Beach Club Hotel

Acapulco Holiday Resort Hotel is located on a golden sandy beach with shallow crystal clear waters and is one of the best selling 5 star hotels in Kyrenia. Acapulco has unique natural beauties and rich flora and fauna that makes it one of the most beautiful holiday villages in North Cyprus. Acapulco Holiday Resort Hotel offers a balanced mixture of Cyprus tradition with Western comforts. The resort's fabulous pool features waterfalls, a sunken bar and being next to the beach, guests can easily participate in the many water sports offered by our experienced staff... Acapulco Beach Club & Resort Hotel offers the best indoor facilities for holidaymakers coming during Winter to North Cyprus.

The Best Beach in North Cyprus

If you love golden sands, warm seas, Canoeing, Pedal boats (High Season only) or just soaking up the sun, the Acapulco Hotel’s stunning sandy beach will be your home all holiday long! Just meters from every hotel room, the 1km long beach has something for everyone, with sun loungers and shady parasols, a popular beach bar, and soft sand just waiting to be made into sand castles.

Gorgeous Gardens and a Superb Swimming Pool

Stroll to the beach through lush gardens full of flowers and natural shade, or head for the three swimming pools complete with , slides and aquapark features that kids adore. Watch the young ones swoosh down the water from your vantage point on a poolside lounger. Take the little ones for a splash in the shallow pool area, or take a swim in glorious sunshine in the adults only pool (pool towels are provided). After all that exercise, you'll have earned a cool refreshing drink in the pool's sunken bar.

Also: Turkish Cypriot Cuisine Fresh from the Hotel’s Own Organic Farm, Relaxing Spa and Sun-soaked Sports, Water slides for the Kids, Evening Entertainment under the Stars, Hotel Room or Bungalow - Your Choice

Address: Catalkoy, Kyrenia, Turkish Republich of Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia +90 392 650 4500

http://www.acapulco-cyprus.com/

Korineum Golf Resort Hotel

Korineum Golf Resort Hotel is literally just a chip shot from the international 18-hole golf course at the Korineum Club, set above the coast and with lovely views down to the sea. Golf fans can enjoy luxury accommodation and world-class golf, while their families can enjoy the swimming pool, private sandy beach, the spa and the excellent restaurant! At the Korineun Golf Resort Hotel, you and your family can stay in spacious apartment style rooms with easy access to a swimming pool, a spa, a private beach, restaurants, bars - and the international standard 18 hole golf course. Located on a hillside with lovely views down to the sea, the Korineum is a peaceful, tranquil place to enjoy time on the tees and time with the family too.

A Golf Course to Savour

For golf fans, the course at the Korineum Golf and Beach Resort offers so much more than 18 skill-testing holes! Set amongst a forest of umbrella pines, carob trees and olive trees, there is a stunning vista around every corner, and views way beyond the fairways to the sea beyond and the mountains behind. It's a stunning setting for this dynamic 6,232 metre, 72 par course with challenging bunkers and water hazards set amongst the hilltop. Trolley hire or buggy hire is available, as is golf club hire and soft spike shoe hire, plus expert tuition from the resident golf pro to help you improve your game. Best of all, hotel guests get a discount on all green fees, and the good value golf packages offer substantial savings on three or five rounds. There is also a smaller Academy Golf Course and a large driving range to practice your swings.

Address: Esentepe, Girne (Kyrenia) +90 392 600 1500

Lovely Swimming Pool Set Amongst the Pines

The Korineum Golf and Beach Resort really does combine the best of both worlds, with excellent onsite facilities for all the family to enjoy. The sparkling clean swimming pool has both shade and sun, so you can swim in comfort even in the hottest parts of the day, and the Sandals poolside bar is open all day for cool drinks, snacks and lunches. The kids have their own separate shallow pool to splash around in, plus a small park area with swings and slides to swoosh down.

Also: Private Beach Area Free to Hotel Guests, Tasty Dining Options at the Clubhouse, Tennis, Spa and Wellness Centre. Address: Esentepe, Girne (Kyrenia) +90 392 600 1500

http://www.korineumgolf.com/

Alkan Holiday Village

Alkan Holiday Village is the only hotel in the Esentepe area and is 35 minutes away from Ercan Airport, 20 minutes away from Kyrenia centre and only 10 minutes away from the newly opened 18-Hole Esentepe Golf Course. Because of its location, Alkan Hotel is the nearest hotel near Esentepe Golf Course. Alkan Holiday Village comprises of 18 self catering bungalows. Accommodation is comfortably furnished and all bungalows have air conditioning, shower and toilet, heating, TV, fridge, gas cooking, kettle, cooking equipment, mini bar and telephone. Alkan Hotel is set in Esentepe in acres of cultivated gardens with a fresh water swimming pool with an attached babies pool. The Turtle Beach Restaurant on the complex provides excellent food and a speciality of Cypriot vegeterian cuisine which is expertly prepared by Alkan's mother with her homegrown organic produce. The comfortable restaurant has a bar, complete with a roaring log fire in the cooler months.

Alkan Hotel Facilities

18 bungalows, 100 metres away from the sea, Clean bungalows with a double and single bed upstairs and sofa bed downstairs, Freshwater swimming pool with an attached babies pool, Excellent food and a speciality of Cypriot vegeterian cuisine using only homegrown organic produce, Restaurant serving fresh fish and delicious Turkish dishes, with a roaring log fire in cooler months, Daily Turkish style breakfast.

Address: Esentepe, +90 392 823 6280

http://www.alkanholidayvillage.com/

Elexus Hotel Resort Spa

Located in a tranquil area, along the stunning coastline, Elexus Hotel Resort & Spa in Kyrenia, North Cyprus is a new imposing 5 star luxury hotel surrounded by beautiful scenery and magnificent views of the sea. The hotel provides outstanding facilities, luxurious accommodation, invigorating spa facilities, restaurants offering a combination of world's leading flavours and authentic Turkish cuisine in a quality and chic décor.

With 5 swimming pools and an aqua park, the hotel is a water paradise. The hotel offers multitude of facilities and activities for couples and honeymooners. Families can enjoy an active, fun-filled family holiday here. When the sun goes down, a fun-filled line-up of entertainment awaits.

The hotel offers Ultra Extended Full Board concept which includes a rich variety of food and beverage service as free of charge during breakfast, late breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea buffet, dinner and late dinner. In the mini club area, buffet meal for children, ice cream, cakes and soft drinks are offered as free of charge.

Elexus Hotel Accommodation Details

The hotel boasts 650 stylish guest rooms. The Rooms include:

Standard rooms with sea or land view options, a king size bed or two single beds, shower or bath and balcony. The capacity for the room is from 1 to 3 people. Family Rooms with sea or land view options. It consists of two separate bedrooms, one with a double bed and one with two single beds. Minimum 3 adults, maximum 4 adults + 1 child capacity.

Deluxe Rooms with sea, land or garden view, features a double bed.

Executive Suite features sea view, a double bed, dressing room and a comfortable sitting area. Superior Suite features sea view, a double bed, a comfortable and spacious sitting area, dressing room, double bathroom, Jacuzzi and double balcony.

Restaurants & Bars

Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet meals are included in the Ultra Extended Full Board concept. All local and imported alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served in the main restaurant for lunch and dinner are included in the concept. Complimentary water is available throughout the hotel. In addition to rich buffet meals, guests can benefit from complimentary offers from 8 show kitchens, world cuisine days, healthy buffet and delicious afternoon tea. The Code Beach Club, bars, snack restaurant, coffee corner and patisserie are chargeable. The Code Beach Club does not provide service in the winter period. In the mini club area, buffet meal for children, ice cream, cakes and soft drinks are offered as free of charge.

Address: Çatalköy mevkii, Kuzey Kıbrıs Türk Cumhuriyeti.+90 (392) 650 10 00

http://www.elexushotel.com/

Famagusta Area

Kaya Artemis Resort Hotel

Walking into the Kaya Artemis is like walking back in time - to ancient Greece! An extraordinary 5 star luxury hotel that combines amazing architecture with every luxury facility you'll need, a North Cyprus holiday at the Kaya Artemis is an awesome experience!

The Kaya Artemis Resort Hotel really is unique: a giant replica of the ancient Temple of Artemis with a five star hotel inside and the Mediterranean Sea at its feet! Move from the classical architecture of columns and statues through the revolving doors into an ultra modern interior, with glass lifts zooming up and down to whisk guests to their rooms above. It's this eye-popping blend of replica ancient and high tech modern that makes this luxury hotel in North Cyprus so popular with international visitors who like the best of beach and bling in one place.

Private Beach with Luxury Facilities

From the mighty columns of the temple, it's a short stroll through the gardens to the private beach, the real star of this hotel's location. This is a beach designed for serious relaxation, with the usual sun loungers and parasol, plus cool beach 'cabins' with canvas roofs, luxurious day beds and soft white drapes that float gently in the sea breezes. With soft yellow sand, gently sloping into the sea, this is a perfect place for kids to play and parents to paddle.

Also: Large Swimming Pool with Temple View, Spacious Rooms with Bath and Shower, Bountiful Buffets and Destination Dining, Full Board Plus at the Kaya Artemis, Hera Spa

Address: Bafra Turizm Bölgesi, İskele, +90 392 630 6000

http://www.kayahotels.com/

Long Beach Resort Hotel

Beach lovers will adore the Long Beach Resort, with its pretty villas and bungalows set along a lovely golden sandy beach. This is one of the few beach hotels in North Cyprus where you can sleep with the beach literally just outside your door - and not spend a fortune to do so! Arranged more like an Asian beach resort hotel than a Mediterranean holiday village, the Long Beach Resort combines the sheer enjoyment of sleeping near the sea with excellent hotel facilities, all in one affordable package. You can choose to laze by the pool, swim in the sea, or enjoy lunch in the restaurant overlooking the sea, all within a few yards of your cool and comfortable accommodation. Best of all, book a beachfront villa and you can literally step out of your door and onto the sands.

Spacious Mini Villas Beside the Sea

Each mini villa has air-conditioning, a nicely tiled bathroom with shower, satellite TV, a mini kitchenette and a fridge. Some villas are right on the beach, others set back in the gardens, but all have a small patio with chairs so you can sit out and enjoy the views wherever your villa faces! With separate bedrooms and great views, these low-rise villas offer great value accommodation in an unbeatable beach location.

Also: Superb Sandy Beach on Famagusta Bay, Safe Swimming Pools and Sun Terraces, Buffet Breakfasts and Dinners, A Great Location for a Family Beach Holiday, Take a 5 minute taxi ride into the fishing port of Bogaz, with its fish restaurants, and bars.

Address: Salamis Road 5000 Famagusta Gazimağusa +90 392 378 9000 +44 1484 413252

Salamis Bay Conti Hotel

The 5 star Salamis Bay Conti Resort Hotel overlooks its own private sandy golden beach and the Mediterranean Sea beyond. This all-inclusive resort offers complete relaxation beside the sea, a great entertainment programme, and easy access to some of biggest and best beaches in North Cyprus. The Salamis Bay Conti Resort Hotel makes the most of its near-perfect location. Most hotel rooms gaze out across the sparkling Mediterranean Sea for beautiful sunset and dramatic sunrises from your hotel balcony. Stroll down past the feature swimming pool and take your place on the golden sands. Relax on a sun lounger with the waves almost lapping at your toes. Kids will love paddling in the shallows and building sandcastles, or exploring the rocky reef just offshore. Teenagers will love the beach volleyball matches.

Curvaceous Lagoon Style Swimming Pool

The curving design of the Salamis Bay Conti Resort Hotel swimming pool gives everyone space to soak up the sunshine. Sheltered by palm trees and with one end separated from the other by an infinity wall of water, it's as much fun to sit in as it is to swim. The hotel's pool and beach towel service ensures you never have to lie on a soggy towel. The hotel's spa has a lovely indoor pool to enjoy, and kids will enjoy the outdoor pool's water slides.

Lots to Entertain the Kids

Families will love the Salamis Bay Conti Resort Hotel; there's a children's club for ages 4-12, a children's playground, and the fun of lazy days together on the beach or by the pool. The whole family can join in with a game of tennis, table tennis, volleyball, billiards, table football or a parent’s v kids darts match!

Take the free shuttle bus into Famagusta, a 10 minute drive to this magnificent walled city where the kids can let their imagination run riot on the mighty battlements. Or take a walk (or taxi) along the coast to the ruins of ancient Salamis, once a thriving Roman port. Kids can clamber amongst the ruins of the forum, explore a vast gymnasium and the most awesome of all, and discover real Roman toilets!

Also: Your Choice of Smart Hotel Room or Spacious Villa, All Inclusive, Entertainment for All Ages, Spa and Wellness Experiences.

Address: Famagusta +90 392 378 8200

Palm Beach Hotel

The newly renovated Arkin Palm Beach Hotel earns every one of its five stars for its position on the golden sands of Famagusta Bay. Relax under sun umbrellas on the private sandy beach, or swim in summertime comfort in the pool shaded by tall waving palm trees, all just a short stroll from the fascinating city of Famagusta. Walk the pristine soft sands of the beach for 10 minutes north to explore the ancient city of Famagusta, with its mighty Venetian walls and impressive towers. Or, gaze into history at the former celebrity hotspots now untouched in the border 'buffer' zone of Maras. You will even have a chance to witness the caretta Turtles swimming too.

Smart, Contemporary Rooms with Sea Views

The clean, crisp decor of your Sea View club room at the Arkin Palm Beach Hotel invites you straight away to throw open the curtains and soak up those sea views, or choose a Land View room to overlook the gardens. For more space, upgrade to a Junior Suite, with uninterrupted 180 degree views over the sea - stunning.

Also: Inviting Bars, Gourmet Lunches and Sophisticated Dining, Entertaining Evenings, Relaxing Spa and Wellness Centre

Address: Nadir Yolu, Deve Limanı, Famagusta, North Cyprus +90 (0) 392 366 2000

http://www.arkinpalmbeach.com/

Noah's Ark Deluxe Hotel

Noah`s Ark Deluxe Hotel & Casino is a large complex close to Famagusta, with 1,600 square metres of golden sands along the crystal clear, sparkling blue Mediterranean Sea. You can't fail to relax in this paradise. If on the other hand you want to stay active you can enjoy the beach water sports, tennis courts or the FIFA standard football pitch. With a professional animation team, you can be sure to keep your days filled. Then there's always the open-air cinema to finish off your day.

Also on offer are a health spa, hairdresser, gym, games room, hot tub and steam bath, for those who prefer a more relaxed holidays.

Facilities: Private Sandy Beach, Outdoor Swimming pool, Kids Club, Football, Tennis, Mini Golf, Water Sports, Boccia, Aqua Park, Indoor Swimming pool, Spa Centre, Turkish Bath, Sauna, Steam Room, Doctor On call, Car park, Massage Rooms

Address: +90 392 630 30 00 Bafra Turizm Bölgesi, Bafra

http://www.noahsark.com.tr/

West Kyrenia

Hideaway Club Hotel

The Hideaway Club is a family run luxury boutique hotel in the foothills of the Kyrenia Mountains with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Light airy suites have a balcony overlooking the sea or a private terrace and are beautifully appointed with locally made furnishings, wrought iron and wood.

The 4 star Hideaway Club combines the best of Cypriot hospitality and atmosphere with stunning views down the foothills to the sea beyond. It's a view you'll appreciate even more over your cooked breakfast, delivered to your room or suite and served on your own private balcony or terrace! This is just part of the excellent service at the Hideaway, an excellent choice for those seeking a boutique hotel in an "upmarket" location with a relaxed ambience.

Relaxing Rooms with Cypriot Styling

From the moment you walk into your bright, light and spotlessly clean room, you know you're somewhere lovely. Cool white curtains flutter in the breeze from your sliding patio doors. Your airy room is furnished with locally made wrought iron fitting that perfectly combine elegance and craftsmanship.

Sit and soak up the scenery on your balcony or terrace, browse a book from the hotel’s library. Help yourself to a cool drink from your mini bar, stocked on request with your favourite drinks and snacks. All rooms have air conditioning, en-suite bathroom, satellite TV, mini bar, safety deposit box and tea and coffee making facilities. Wifi is available in some rooms check with reception.

Also: Special Choice of Rooms and Suites, Large Freshwater Swimming Pool with Waiter Service, Rooftop Dining and Ottoman Inspired Menus, Rooftop Dining and Ottoman Inspired Menus.

Address: Edremit, Kyrenia, North Cyprus Tel: +90-542-855-0771

http://www.hideawayclub.com/

Fairmont Holiday Village

The Fairmont Holiday Village is a friendly and welcoming resort open to all. With modern and comfortable villa bungalows in a beautiful setting and true Cypriot hospitality, a Fairmont villa offers good value, ‘designer’ accommodation for your holiday in Cyprus.

With curving arches, and domed roofs, the mini villas at the Fairmont Holiday Village are unlike anything else in North Cyprus. Don't be fooled by the word 'bungalow': these are smart terraced villas designed with minimalist interiors and fittings. Each of the 18 villas has both mountain and sea views from its own terraced area, including views of St Hilarion castle, perfect for couples who enjoy modern living and stunning mountain landscapes.

Designer interiors, all mod cons

Inside, these chic North Cyprus villas are light, airy, and spacious, with plenty of space to relax in. With the living space on the ground floor and a gallery bedroom area above, the open plan design avoids any dark corners or wasted spaces. Each villa is beautifully appointed with tiled bathrooms and large windows in the bedroom, plus trendy rattan furniture and a sofa in the living area below. You’ll have all the necessities of a villa holiday, including LCD satellite TV, a fridge, air conditioning and that most vital of 21st century holiday essentials, WiFi.

Great looking swimming pool and sun-drenched terraces

The unusual curved shape of the central swimming pool perfectly matches the sweeping lines of the villas. This is one good-looking pool, and with no raised sides, it flows effortlessly into the terraces surrounding it. There is a round children's pool that kids will enjoy splashing around in, while you relax on a sunlounger in the 330+ days of sunshine North Cyprus enjoys each year.

Also: Breakfast just as you like it, Family-run, attentive service, Just 1km to the nearest beaches, Easy Access from Kyrenia Bypass

Address: Edremit, Girne, (+90)5338297645-5338297646

http://fairmontcyprus.com/

Merit Park Hotel

Set on a small cliff above the sea with superb views from all rooms, the Merit Park Hotel is every inch a five star luxury hotel, from the fine restaurants to the renowned spa and wellness centre. Book the exceptional value Ultra All Inclusive deal and leave your cash at home!

5 Star Hotel & Wellness Spa

If you're looking for a luxury North Cyprus holiday hotel right by the sea, the Merit Park Hotel is a great choice. Set on a natural hill, and with a design inspired by Kyrenia Castle, this impressive hotel overlooks the stunning endless Mediterranean blue seas. Cross the bridge over the swimming pool, stroll down through the immaculate lawn gardens and discover the floral delights of North Cyprus. You will access to the decking and jetty area by lift that will take you to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea beyond. Claim your sun lounger, stretch out, soak up the sun and enjoy all day snacks and drinks from the hotel beach bar. Or swim in the clear Mediterranean Sea below accessed by sturdy ladders from the decking.

Great Choice Of Restaurants And Bars

Enjoy a generous breakfast in the Kybele buffet restaurant, which also serves tasty lunches and delicious dinners to enjoy inside or on the terrace. For dining to the gentle lapping of the waves, the Fora fish restaurant on the pier serves fresh fish and seafood, with live music at the weekends. The Aisha Lebanon restaurant has won praise from visitors and local alike for its lovely Lebanese menu. And if you're still hungry, there's always room service running from 01:30 am to 7 am!

There's also the Beach Club Bar, Sunset Bar, Sherwood lobby bar and Pool Bar to enjoy, from early to late in the night. On the Merit Park all-inclusive tariff, all local alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are free.

A Swimming Pool For Swimmers

The Merit Park Hotel pool is great for a proper swim. Stretching the entire length of the hotel, this sparkling clean swimming pool has a children's pool area at one end and a bridge over the middle for easy access to the seafront areas. With terraces that runs alongside the pool, and a pool bar serving irresistible snacks, you'll want to come back to enjoy this lovely pool day after day. There's also a small indoor pool ideal for a dip during North Cyprus winter breaks.

Entertainment For All Ages

Children are warmly welcomed at the Merit Park Hotel, and they'll love the games and activities put on by the hotel's mini club (for ages 4-12 years). With a dedicated play area and a hotel pony club, rest assured they're having a great time without you! There are also family games to play together including tennis, table tennis, darts and billiards, as well as the fun of splashing about in the children's pool or paddling in the sea.

All the family can also enjoy the evening entertainment featuring Performers from Turkey, and amazing shows by international performers from acrobats to fire eaters. The hotel's casino itself is strictly adults only, so dress up and try your luck at the tables or on the latest slots.

Spa and Wellness Centre With Massage Services

No five star hotel in North Cyprus would be complete without a spa, and the Merit Park Hotel is no exception. Enjoy a relaxing morning in the Turkish bath, sauna, steam room or gym. If you fancy a winter break enjoy the heated indoor pool. Treat yourself to a beauty treatment or book a relaxing classic or exotic massage.

Address: KERVANSARAY MEVKII KARAOGLANOGLU +90 392 650 2500

http://www.merithotels.com/

Ada Beach Hotel

The Ada Hotel is ideal for those looking for a clean, comfortable seafront hotel on their North Cyprus holiday. Enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea from every room and extensive terraces where you can bask in the warm sunshine. With stunning sea views from every bedroom, the Ada Beach Hotel is perfect for those who love to be right beside the sea. Most rooms have a balcony so you can relax and soak up the view anytime of the day, or sip a drink from the mini bar and watch the sunsets. The view is equally special from the various sun decks, and wherever you choose to relax, you can hear the waves! With stunning sea views from every bedroom, the Ada Beach Hotel is perfect for those who love to be right beside the sea. Most rooms have a balcony so you can relax and soak up the view anytime of the day, or sip a drink from the mini bar and watch the sunsets. The view is equally special from the various sun decks, and wherever you choose to relax, you can hear the waves!

Also: Spacious, Comfortable Rooms, Swimming Pool and Sun-Soaked Terraces, Seafront Decking with Uninterrupted Sea Views, Private Sandy Beach with Shallow Water for Kids, Beach side Dining Under the Stars, Secluded Location, Close to Kyrenia

Address: Ada Beach Hotel, Karavas, Alsancak +90 392 821 8237

http://www.adahotelcyprus.com/

Bare Hill Holiday Village

Set in citrus tree filled gardens just outside Alsancak village, the Bare Hill Holiday Village is ideal for relaxing holidays in the sun. With great views up to the Five Finger mountains behind at this budget North Cyprus hotel, you'll enjoy more view for your money at Bare Hill.

The Bare Hill Holiday Village welcomes you with true Cypriot hospitality. It's location is fantastic for those who prefer not to drive, just a short few minutes’ walk into the charming village of Alsancak with its local restaurants, bars, shops and two supermarkets markets. So you can stock your bungalow fridge with those holiday necessities and tasty local ingredients to assemble your own meals.

Spacious Studios and Duplex bungalows

With different styles of bungalows to choose from, you can decide how much space you'd like. Duplex bungalows, with a galleried bedroom above or one level studios complete with en-suite and a lounge with TV, plus that North Cyprus summer holiday essential, air conditioning. There's also a small kitchen with hob, fridge, with basic kitchen wares that your can make your own delicious meals with ingredients bought from the local village - or just stock the fridge with local beer, wines and tasty nibbles! Relax and watch the sunsets from your own private balcony or terrace.

Sunny Central Swimming Pool

All the bungalows overlook the clean rectangular pool with its separate children's section, and with a poolside shower, toilets and changing rooms, there's no need to go back to your room to change. The kids can splash in the shallow section of the pool or enjoy the hotel's small playground, while you can pick up a book from the hotel lobby library and lie back on a sun lounger for some serious R&R!

Address: Address: Karaoğlanoğlu Caddesi 43, Alsancak +90 392 821 2609

Villa Club Holiday Village

Villa Club Holiday Village is a peaceful family-run group of self-catering villas and studios set in 10 acres of orange and lemon trees. At the Villa Club Holiday Village, you can relax by the pool while the kids meet new friends in the central swimming pool. There are two great beaches within walking distance, plus excellent local restaurants serving field-fresh food and local-caught fish. Villa Club and your hosts Mustafa and Alison pride themselves on the fact that most guests are there on return visits.

Beach Access & Swimming Pools

Central courtyard swimming pool, sun terrace, sun loungers, sun parasols. Two local beaches, one just 350metres walk, with water sports including scuba diving and waterskiing.

Facilities

Satellite TV showing English football, Gardens with fountain and 24 types of fruit including oranges and lemons which guests are welcome to pick, Bird watching in grounds, Seven local restaurants within 10 minutes walk, two local supermarkets, local bars, local casino, Reading room with English books.

Adress: 6 Ecevit Caddesi P.K. 386 Yeşiltepe - Girne +90 392 821 8400

http://www.villa-club.com/

LOREM IPSUM

Denizkizi & Denizkizi Royal Hotel

Denizkizi resort hotels offer you two exceptional value hotels, the 3 star Denizkizi Hotel and its 4 star neighbour, the Denizkizi Royal. Book a holiday in one and you can enjoy the facilities of both, including the beautiful gardens, swimming pool and the sandy beach in its own pretty little cove.

Delightful Beach in a Pretty, Sheltered Cove

North Cyprus may have over 70 beaches, but few of them are as pretty, or as sheltered, as the sandy beach at DenizKizi. (Turkish word for "Mermaid") Wander down through the pretty gardens from the hotels and spend your days beside the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Stretch out on a lounger under a shady parasol on the beach or the sand-free terrace above, splash about in the shallow, warm waters, or grab a cool drink or lunchtime snack from the seafront restaurant. It's very relaxed, very friendly and with free beach towel service, you won't need to take any beach sand back to your room either!

Seaside Swimming Pool

Just behind the beach is the freshwater swimming pool, with elegant arched colonnades and waving palm trees to provide shade. There's also a separate children's section at one end, plus showers and changing rooms, and you can even enjoy the stunning mountain and sea views from your poolside lounger.

Two Hotels, One Great Holiday

Whether you stay at the three star Denizkizi or the four star Denizkizi Royal, every hotel room has the essentials, including air conditioning, en-suite bathroom, minibar, room safe, electronic locks. Tea and coffee making facilities are also available in your room. The rooms at the Denizkizi Royal are larger and all of them have sea views but we'll let you we will let you into a secret chose one of the fabulous corner deluxe rooms in the original Denizkizi. These rooms have a fresh, modern feel complemented by full height sliding hear resistant glass doors leading to the balcony, with 'see-through' glass railings for a better view of either the sea or the mountain

Also: Fitness and Wellness Centre, Water- sports on You Doorstep, Stress-Free Transfers from Ercan Airport

Address: Alsancak, Kyrenia, +90392 821 2676

www.denizkizi.com

Merit Crystal Cove Hotel

Merit Crystal Cove Hotel is one of the most striking hotels in Northern Cyprus, with both sea and mountain views, and an exceptional quality of service at this top North Cyprus hotel. The Merit Crystal Cove Hotel sets the standard for other North Cyprus 5 star hotels, with a winning combination of a modern hotel with good old fashioned 'attention to detail' customer service. Nothing is too much trouble for the staff at this international hotel. Set right on the water's edge, with its own secluded sandy cove, and with lots of activities, live events and spectacular buffet dining to enjoy, the Merit Crystal Cove Hotel is 5 star in every way.

Stunning Beach Location

At the Merit Crystal Cove Hotel, the sparkling Mediterranean Sea is just at the end of the hotel’s immaculate gardens. Stroll down to the immaculate lawn terraces set above the beach complete with day beds in shady pergolas, or the most comfortable luxury hammocks you'll ever snooze in.

Secluded, Private Sandy Cove

Dig your toes into the soft sand of the hotel's own private beach shielded from winds and tides and under the protective gaze of the lifeguard during the summer. There's sun loungers to stretch out on, a beach towel service, shallow safe waters to swim or paddle in, and a range of watersports if you fancy some serious fun on the sea. The beach bar will serve you cooling drinks and superb snacks all day long too.

Stylish Swimming Pool

Our GNC team loves the swimming pool at the Merit Crystal Cove Hotel, with its rich planting and curved design that makes it feel as if you're swimming in a garden! With lots of sun loungers and a large separate terraced area for dining, the Merit pool is a lovely area to spend time in.

All Inclusive Dining That Really Is All Inclusive

It sometimes feels like all inclusive hotel deals in North Cyprus exclude more than they include - not so at the Merit Crystal Cove Hotel. During high season they offer Ultra All Inclusive. Impeccable culinary tastes that will have you experiencing Merits Turkish and International flavours that will have you experiencing Merit's hospitality.

Also: Five Restaurants to choose from, Five Bars to choose from,Light & Airy Bedrooms And Luxury Bathrooms, Spa and Wellness Centre with Snow Room, Entertainment for all ages, Stress-Free Transfers From Ercan Airport

Adress: Alsancak Mevkii +90 392 650 02 00

http://www.merithotels.com/

Riverside Garden Resort

Riverside Garden Resort is situated in the delightful countryside, set on the gentle slopes of the mountains behind Kyrenia, and only about a 10 minute drive from the nearest beach. There are many facilities here to keep you occupied, and some holidaymakers may choose never to leave the village with so much to enjoy. For its size, there is a wider range of attractions than you might expect, and the overall impression of the village is that it is well run and is well maintained. The Aqua park is great fun for the children, whilst in the grounds the main pool area is more relaxing and restful.

Luxury New Hotel Rooms

The new rooms at the Riverside Garden Resort are large, nicely furnished and have everything you'd expect from a new hotel in North Cyprus . You'll find efficient air-conditioning, satellite TV, mini bar, and those two holiday essentials, a kettle and WiFi! Your en-suite bathroom has an amazing hydro-massage shower that'll make you want to sing with excitement in the mornings, and a balcony that invites you to sit and relax in the sunshine.

Comfortable Garden Villas

Wander through the gardens to discover your own private one-bedroom villa tucked amongst the shrubs. Open the door into a clean, air-conditioned lounge/sitting room, with your own private balcony or terrace, and en-suite bath or shower. Some villas are all on one level, while other are duplex, with the bedroom in a galleried area above. Villas don't have WiFi but the lobby area does, so just pop across to the main hotel check your emails or post your pictures home.

Also: Delicious Dinners, Full English Breakfasts and Great Poolside Snacks, Three Swimming Pools Including One Adults Only, Plenty for Kids to Enjoy, Village Location with Easy Beach Access

Adress: Salhane Sk, Alsancak +90 392 8218906

http://www.riversideholidayvillage.com/

Almond Holiday Village

Set on the gentle slopes of the Kyrenia mountains at Alsancak, this family-run three star hotel offers villas and spacious hotel rooms, lovely views to the mountains behind, and an unbeatably warm welcome to all their guests, young and old alike.

Secluded Villas and Bungalows Set In Shady Gardens

Set in the well-tended stunning gardens, your spotlessly clean private villa or bungalow will have everything you need, including a terraces, air conditioning, bathroom with shower and either a private sun terrace or balcony. The stand-alone Two bedroom cottages at the Almond Holiday are perfect for families and friends.

The semi-detached cottages offer more space and easy access from the pool area via a little bridge, making them easily accessible to those with mobility issues. The traditional style villas are set over two floors, with a lounge downstairs and a mezzanine sleeping area. The Almond also offer a One two bedroom Disabled friendly villa that is located close to all the amenities.

The hotel rooms are nicely appointed with air conditioning, ensuite bathroom and Juliet balcony. These are located in the main building.

Also: Cypriot Artifacts dotted around Pretty Gardens,Sparkling Clean Swimming Pool, Restaurant Experience Dining, Mountain Setting with Easy Access to the Sea

Address: 1 Bademli Sokak, Alsancak, Kyrenia +90 392 821 28 86

http://almond-holidays.com/

Rose Gardens Holiday Village

From the moment you arrive, the Rose Garden Holiday Village invites you to leave your worries behind and simply relax in the fragrant gardens. Leave your unpacking until later, and take time to sit on your private terrace and soak up the scents and the magnificent mountains views.

Each basic bungalow (villa) is simply furnished but cosy and comfortable, with air-conditioning, a shower and WC, a lounge area where you can relax and watch TV and a galleried bedroom area above. The kitchen has everything you need to create snacks or even cooked dinners, or just stock up the fridge freezer with your favourite snacks, drinks and Cypriot delicacies.

Peaceful Villas in Lovely Gardens

From the moment you arrive, the Rose Garden Holiday Village invites you to leave your worries behind and simply relax in the fragrant gardens. Leave your unpacking until later, and take time to sit on your private terrace and soak up the scents and the magnificent mountains views. Each basic bungalow (villa) is simply furnished but cosy and comfortable, with air-conditioning, a shower and wc, a lounge area where you can relax and watch tv and a galleried bedroom area above. The kitchen has everything you need to create snacks or even cooked dinners, or just stock up the fridge freezer with your favourite snacks, drinks and Cypriot delicacies. New hotel rooms will be opening soon - ask the team for the latest details.

Also: Al Fresco Breakfasts and Poolside Snacks, Family-Run, Family Atmosphere, Easy Access to Local Beach, Relaxing Location, Relaxing Transfers

Address: Kılıçarslan Sk, Lapta +90 392 821 8927

http://www.rose-gardens.com/

Manolya Hotel

The Manolya Hotel is a little gem; a family-run hotel nestling between sea and mountains, with a seafront swimming pool, easy access to the sea below and a well-regarded PADI scuba dive school based at the hotel. For those who prefer just to sun themselves and chill out, the Manolya Hotel's sun terraces by the sea and quiet location near Lapta will help you relax the moment you arrive.

Comfortable Rooms with Mountain or Sea Views

The Manolya Hotel rooms have lovely views across the pool area to the sea beyond, or inland to the Five Finger Mountains. Your room will be clean, comfortably furnished, with air conditioning for those hot summer days and satellite tv and well stocked mini bar for relaxing evenings 'in'. There's also wifi access (chargeable), so you can post your holiday photos of your first scuba lesson or your walk in the mountains!

Family rooms are exceptionally good value, since each has a separate sitting area and a mini kitchenette, ideal for families with young children.

Also: Two Hotel Restaurants, and Lots More Nearby, Seaside Swimming Without the Salt, Scuba Diving On Your Doorstep

Adress: 6 Fevzi Çakmak Cad. Lapta-Girne (Kyrenia) (+90) 392-8218498

http://www.manolyahotel.com/

LA Hotel & Resort

The LA Hotel nestles between the mountains and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, and the star attraction at this good value family hotel is definitely the beach. A lovely arch of golden sand with waving palm trees behind and plenty of sunloungers, you can spend all day here either soaking up the sun, swimming in the sea or the freshwater swimming pool, enjoying lunch at the restaurant or bubbling away in the jacuzzi! It's a perfect little beach resort.

Family Friendly Rooms With sea, pool or mountain views

Choose either a standard or family room that sleeps up to five, for good value accommodation without the 'extras' that most families never use, and plenty of space for the family. Every clean, airy room has all the holiday essentials: satellite tv, air conditioning, a balcony to enjoy either sea, mountain or pool views, mini bar and an en-suite bathroom with both a shower and a bath, a rarity in most North Cyprus hotels.

Choice of Three Great Swimming Pools

The LA Hotel has three fabulous swimming pools. The largest of the pools is the central courtyard swimming pool, the infinity-style of the pool is set next to the private LA Hotel & sandy beach.

The indoor swimming pool is heated during the winter months.

Lots To Do for Families

The LA Hotel offer live music in the summer months. If you fancy venturing outside the hotel, the local restaurants and bars of coastal Lapta are a short stroll along the road, offering a taste of Turkish Cypriot cuisine and live music in local tavernas.

Address: Lapta - Kyrenia + 90 (392) 821 89 81

http://www.la-hotel-cyprus.com/

Lapida Garden Hotel

Great value holidays in North Cyprus don't have to involve big hotels in built up areas! The Lapida Garden Hotel is a quiet and peaceful hotel tucked just within the village, with the sea below and the mountains above. From the moment you arrive, you'll be welcomed by Fethi, his family and his friendly and polite staff, to a hotel that in our opinion is 3 star Cypriot hospitality at its very best. We love the atmosphere here and we're sure you will too.

Lush Gardens and Sparkling Swimming Pool

The Lapida Garden Hotel certainly lives up to its name, as you wander to the swimming pool through gardens rich with flowers and shaded by citrus trees. Swim in the immaculately clean pool while the kids splash in their own separate pool. Laze away your days on the sun-drenched terraces or in a hammock in the shade of a tree.

Clean, Well-Kept Rooms in Simple Style

The Lapida Garden Hotel only has eleven rooms, each spotlessly clean with an en-suite bathroom and views out across the garden to the mountains, and a side view of the sea too. Each room is clean, and light, with air-conditioning, mini bar and a daily maid service. The hotel is also decorated with antiques and items of ironwork made by the owner, so there's always something to catch your eye or engage your interest. Whether you want to chill out on the shady terrace with a drink from the bar, sit back with a book from the lobby library, or use the wifi to send pictures home, there's always a quiet place to relax at the hotel.

Easy Access to Local Beaches

The Lapida Garden Hotel is just a short distance from local beaches including the popular Sunset Beach. Stroll down towards the sparkling Mediterranean Sea to discover small local restaurants overlooking the sea, or the bustling bars and cafes along the coastal road. Or, catch the local bus (dolmus) into Kyrenia for a 30 minute ride along to coast ending at the historic harbour area.

Adress: Şehit İbrahim Nidai Caddesi, Lapta +90 533 862 1500

Hotel Sempati

Hotel Sempati is a comfortable family-run hotel which offers friendly service together with high standards. The hotel is situated 10 miles west of Kyrenia in a particularly tranquil area with a wonderful mountain backdrop and spectacular views of the Mediterranean sea. Sempati Hotel is situated in Lapta, 20 minutes from Kyrenia town centre. Hotel Sempati offers an ideal setting for those seeking a peaceful relaxing holiday. You can go by frequent local minibus (dolmush) from the front of the hotel into Kyrenia which takes about 20-25 minutes and only costs 50 pence per person each way.

Sea Views or Mountain Views from Every Hotel Room

The Sempati Hotel is built in a curve, so every single room in the main hotel has a view over the pool area and gardens to the sea beyond. With pretty balconies and cool tiled or wood floors, your room is always clean, light, airy and cool, especially with air conditioning. All rooms have the comforts you'd expect in a three star holiday hotel, including en-suite bathroom, mini bar, satellite TV, a safety deposit box for your passports and other papers, and tea and coffee making facilities for a cuppa whenever you fancy one! If you fancy treating yourself to a Suite, these have a separate lounge area and up to three balconies (yes, three).

Appealing Large Sheltered Freshwater Swimming Pool

With its smiley face in the tiles, and its position at the heart of the hotel, the swimming pool is an ideal area to relax, meet new friends, have a snack, or sip a cocktail. And, of course, have a cooling dip too! There is a small children's section at one end, and plenty of sunloungers and parasols. Meals are served around the pool in summer too, and with live music and dancing on Wednesday and Saturday nights, the pool area is the place to be from dawn to well past dusk.

New Spacious Rooms in the Gardens

If you fancy the comforts of a hotel but the space of a villa, there are seven poolside rooms with private terrace and garden views, perfect for guests with restricted mobility. The best rooms at the Sempati are the new Superior rooms, more like an apartment than a hotel room, with a large balcony and lots of space to make your own. The gardens themselves are a mass of greenery, scent and colour, filled with native plants, roses, grape vines, fig trees and exotic plants.

Adress: Ali Ocak Sokak No 7 Lapta Kyrenia 90 392 8212 773

http://www.hotelsempati.com/

Club Simena Hotel

Club Simena is a family-run holiday village set amongst tropical gardens, the ideal location for a family holiday in Northern Cyprus. Kids will love meeting new friends in the large swimming pool and racing them down the aqua slides, while you can just lie back and enjoy magnificent views of the Besparmak Mountains. Club Simena features spacious Villas in shady gardens.

At the family-run Club Simena, it's all about space, with large, roomy studios, single storey and duplex villas that offer you more room for your money. Set around a sparkling clean swimming pool, the pretty whitewashed villas enjoy a high level of privacy thanks to clever planting of flowering shrubs and palm trees.

All accommodation at Club Simena has en-suite shower and WC, satellite TV, air conditioning, a balcony or terrace, a fridge. Free WiFi is available throughout so you can stay connected.

And talking of connected, two single storey villas (bungalows) can be interconnected to create a larger family space if required.

Also: Mountains Views and Rural Setting, Large Freshwater Swimming Pool and Separate Aquapark, Outdoor Dining with Garden Views, Enjoy a Day at the Beach Club, Just 12 miles straight in to Kyrenia

Address: Karsiyaka, Kyrenia + 90 392 825 24 76

http://www.clubsimena-hotel.com

The centre of the casino world in North Cyprus is most certainly Kyrenia, it being the most popular destination for holidaymakers and visitors on the island too. Casinos on the island can certainly satisfy most peoples’ gambling tastes, but at the same time many boast excellent additional on-site facilities for those who also enjoy a relaxation break, providing luxury accommodation, spa packages and dining excellence for example. A lot of the casinos are open 24 hours a day, but we would advise you to check with regard to this as some do still open around midday and are only open until the early hours of the morning.

There are a fantastic array of gambling options with table games like American and French roulette, Las Vegas craps and Black Jack. Poker, chemin-de-fer, punto banco, baccarat and keno are also played, and some casinos are allowed to offer games such as chug-a-lug, wheel of fortune, rummy and backgammon on which participants can bet. Even if you have never played any of these games you can watch others play so that you can understand the rules and then have a little flutter yourselves, although if you are not that adventurous some even have bingo!

One of the main attractions for those with just a few pounds in their pocket is that the whole occasion is one of excitement, you can enjoy others’ successes and losses at the casino without having to get too financially involved – oh and free alcoholic drinks and food are often on offer too, and a relaxed dress code is permissible!

Many of the casinos have the highest technologies available in gaming and are more often than not run by large gaming companies which have locations and operations all over the world. They are also generally located within and are affiliated to hotels, making the experience a complete package for many of the visiting gamblers as they can spend time in the casino whilst their wives and partners can have a pampering holiday break with spa treatments, shopping and can also dine at one of the many restaurants and bars within the hotel premises or just laze by the pool or beach club for example.

Central Kyrenia

Colony Sporting Club

For those who seek entertainment and a little excitement during their stay why not visit the Colony Casino, which is located in in the heart of downtown Kyrenia,in the five star The Colony Hotel . The popular and rather stately 5 star Colony Hotel is home to its own Sporting Club, offering a luxurious gaming experience with all the trimmings and over 100 slots.

With a range of the latest jackpot slot machines and all the major table games including roulette, blackjack, stud poker and Punto Banco, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Touch bet roulette screens are available for those who would like to bet without the bustle! Elegantly appointed and arranged over two floors joined by a sweeping marble staircase the Colony Casino would not be out of place in London, Cannes or Monte Carlo.

Tel – +90 (0)392 8151320

www.colonysportingclub.com

Grand Pasha Casino

Grand Pasha Casino is an affiliate of Pasha Group, which operates at international level. Having started delivering services in 2013, Grand Pasha Casino features a comfortable and pleasant gaming atmosphere in the heart of Kyrenia with its extraordinary modern architecture, it’s A la Carte Restaurant where you will experience special flavours of Turkish and World cuisines, its specially designed VIP lounge and sincere service concept.

Alternative Entertainment in Kyrenia

Grand Pasha Casino brings alternative entertainment at your service in Kyrenia, with its ballroom where famous artists and bands perform, banquet events are organized with spectacular shows to ensure experiencing unforgettable evenings.

VIP

Our VIP lounge, designed specially for high-limit games, presents a comfortable environment for its guests. Increase your chances of winning through lotteries during weekdays four times a day.

Enjoy live games with 7 American Roulette and Card Game Tables featuring 15 different games and qualified croupiers. ake your chance with latest technology Novomatic roulettes which, can get connected to live game roulette tables. You can make huge wins in 5 different progressive games; Novomatic Marilyn Jackpot, Spielo Hot & Wild, Mega Jack, Williams Volcano, Egt Mystery and play the game you wish from the extensive selection featured in all our machines. TITO system is used in our slot lounge where our machines are constantly renewed so as to provide you with outstanding services. TITO enables you to move easily in the lounge without having to wait for attendants.

Dates of high reward Roulette and Casino poker tournaments can be seen in activity program.

Tel - +90 (392) 650 66 30

http://www.grandpasha.com/

Dome Hotel & Casino

This hotel is the oldest hotel in Kyrenia and benefits from its location right next to the old harbour. It has undergone a facelift in recent years in all areas, and its casino now boasts 120 different slot machines and 12 table games including American Roulette, Blackjack and Stud Poker.

Opening Times: Open daily from 12:00pm until 6:00am (until 7:00am Fridays and Saturdays)

Gaming Currency: USD$ or Turkish Lira

Games to play: 100 Jackpot Slots/Video Machines; Live table games: 4 American Roulette, 4 Super Stud Poker, 4 Blackjack.

Facilities: Dome Hotel, UK Horse & Dog Race Betting Service, Restaurants, Bar, Entertainment.

Remarks: Situated within the Dome Hotel in the heart of Kyrenia and has been in operation for twenty-three years.

Tel – +90 (0)392 815 2772.

www.dome-cyprus.com

Liman Casino

Liman Hotel and Casino is located in the heart of the picturesque town of Kyrenia, which is 20 kilometers from the airport Lefkosa. The Casino Liman is an exclusive establishment of VIP – class. Only in our casino you are waited for an unforgettable pastime in the atmosphere of luxury with the highest level of service. Each guest will have an individual approach and an absolute privacy. Our main aim is your comfort and security. Only in Liman you will get an infinite pleasure from a game and a real enjoyment from our hospitality.

Live Game

İn the main hall and VIP room are 5 tables for American Roulette and 13 card tables is available.North_Cyprus _Liman_Casino.jpg All our tables are offered the opportunity to play higher limits.

American Roulette - $ 1000 on progressive.

Black Jack - Max $ 5000.

Carribean Poker - No Limit, $ 200,000 up to a maximum payment.

Super Poker - No Limit, $ 200,000 up to a maximum payment.

Texas Holdem Poker - No Limit, $ 200,000 up to a maximum payment.

Tel – +90 (0)392 815 2001

http://www.casinoliman.com/

Rocks Hotel & Casino

This 5 star hotel is right in the centre of Kyrenia facing the beautiful Mediterranean Sea, it’s close to the old harbour and offers the height of luxury and opulence and is extremely popular. It features around 173 slot games and a total of 20 table games including Blackjack, American Roulette,Texas Hold'em, Poker, Trio Card Poker, Russian Three Card Poker, Poker Tournaments also there is a Race & Sportsbook there.

Tel – +90 (0)392 8152238.

www.rockshotel.com

Viola Hill

This is currently the newest kid on the block and it’s attached to the brand new, spectacular 5 Star Savoy Ottoman Hotel, which is situated toward the western end of the high street in Kyrenia. As you would expect from this high tech gambling venue, it features 160 slots and around 20 table games, and you can even become a member of its Players Club.

Tel – +90 (0)392 8160910.

www.savoyhotel.com.tr

East of Kyrenia

Acapulco Casino

The huge 5 Star Acapulco Beach Club & Resort Hotel located at the far end of Çatalköy has its own in-house casino; it’s hugely popular with holidaymakers. The Acapulco Casino features 85 slot machines and 12 table games as well as providing all you could wish for in terms of additional luxury facilities.

Tel – +90 (0)392 8244110

www.acapulco-cyprus.com

Galaxy Casino

Linked to the Oscar Resort, which is just east of the new harbour area and a popular family holiday destination with amazing amenities, the Galaxy Casino has 160 gaming machines and offers 8 different table games including American Roulette, Blackjack, and Poker.

Tel – +90(0)392 8154801.

www.oscar-resort.com

Malpas Casino

Located in the foothills of Çatalköy, the Malpas Casino is attached to the new 5 Star Hotel of the same name; it’s operated by the Mystral Casino Group. High tech casino options in a really funky and colourful setting are plentiful with traditional slots as well as table gaming

Tel – +90 (0)392 8244757.

www.malpashotel.com

Viva Casino

Located in Çatalköy and attached to the pleasant Dedeman Olive Tree Hotel, Viva Casino is set in a quieter area, being away from the main road. The Viva Casino has around 100 slot machines and 13 tables.

Tel – +90 (0) 392 8244200.

www.dedeman.com

Zodiak Casino

This casino attached to the Pia Bella Hotel has only been open since 2008, and you can’t miss it as it’s located on the new harbour roundabout and is all ablaze with flashing lights (!) – it has around 12 tables and various slot machines. This casino is popular with holidaymakers who stay at this well known 3 star hotel

Tel – +90 (0)392 8155321.

www.casinozodiak.com

West of Kyrenia

Celebrity Casino

Situated on the Lapta Strip and part of the Celebrity Hotel Group again, this is one of the oldest casino operations around. Popular with the holiday and expat crowd it hosts 120 different slot games and 11 table games including American Roulette and Blackjack.

Tel – +90 (0)392 821 8751.

//www.sunshine.co.uk/hotels/Celebrity_Hotel-17578.html

Jasmine Court Casino

Another popular family holiday destination is the 5 star Jasmine Court Hotel just east of Kyrenia and off the main road, its casino offers 500 slots and forty different table games, making it the largest casino in North Cyprus and apparently the rest of Europe too. Jasmine Court Hotel&Casino is at your disposal with poker, bingo, electronic roulette and multigame options in addition to hundreds of newest and state of the art technology slot machines and live game tables that include the most popular roulette and card games.

Jasmine Court Hotel & Casino aims at offering the highest level of quality services to you with its special VIP game area within our casino in addition to restaurant, bar and cafes serving our valued customers, and is one of the biggest and most elite casinos of Cyprus, Europe and Middle East, and ensures a high quality service and entertainment area with its highly competent employees who are experts in their own fields with international experience.

Tel – +90 (0)392 8151450.

http://www.jasmine.com.tr/

Mercure Casino

Another new 5 star hotel, the Accor Mercure Casino & Wellness Resort located in Kervansery, opened its casino in 2007 and it’s run by the Merit Casino Holdings Group. The Mercure Casino boasts the newest in gambling technology and again is very popular with visitors and holidaymakers as it has around 110 slots and 20 tables.

Tel – +90 (0)392 6502500.

http://mercure-cyprus-casino-hotels-wellness-resort.cyprushotel.net/en/

Merit Crystal Cove Casino

The Merit Crystal Cove Hotel and Resort is one of the older 5 star hotels, but it’s certainly not old in the gambling casino venue stakes and is actually one of the front runners in terms of its popularity as it has a huge casino. The Merit Casino in Alsancak is run by the Merit Casino Holdings Group and at the moment it has around 26 tables and 200 slots.

The number-one place for winning and international excitement!

Merit Casinos is a group of casinos held by Voyager Cyprus, a Net Holding enterprise. Not only are we the only organization in Northern Cyprus offering a wide range of gaming services (out of Girne and Lefkoşa), we also pride ourselves on our skilled employees who hold international experience in their respective fields and provide a high-quality gaming environment and service.

The World Poker Tour poker tournament introduced to the island by Merit Hotels four years ago was a massive breakthrough in promoting Northern Cyprus worldwide. With its pristine natural beauty, coastline drenched in sun year round, golden sandy beaches, and splendid history, Northern Cyprus is one of the most important centers of tourism in the Mediterranean, and Merit has opened a new channel for tourism, the country’s powerhouse industry, with Texas Hold ‘Em.

The World Poker Tour is held in a country that caters to the large audience of games of chance. The tournament offers alluring prizes to fans of the game while also giving them the chance for a five-star vacation, thereby providing a significant contribution to the international promotion of Northern Cyprus.

Merit Crystal Cove Hotel & Casino continues to host its tournaments of the mathematically, psychologically, and strategically involved Texas Hold‘Em Poker, which is also known as the “thinking man’s game.

Tel +90 (0)392 8218773

http://www.merithotels.com/ www.meritcasinos.com

Merit Park Casino

The casino promises unforgettable nights in its spacious 2,248-square-meter area. Go ahead and dive into this bright and colorful world! As our guests listen to the relaxing melodies of live music in the luxury design of the casino, they may enjoy the international dishes served there as well.

As our guests listen to the relaxing melodies of live music in the luxury design of the casino, they may enjoy the international dishes served there as well.

Tel - +90 392 650 25 00

http://www.merithotels.com/en

Famagusta Area

Salamis Bay Conti Hotel

Equipped with the latest machines and gaming with the latest technology, we bet playing games in dazzling Salamis Casino glory very much alacaksınız.so model luxury car fleet of Mercedes, you carry on Salamis Casino's unique environment. Salamis Casino ancient Salamis Ruins carrying breeze, sculpture and private and spacious architecture consists of relief, free buffet and A la Carte in tasarlandı.b guests with restaurants to offer a comfortable gaming environment that hosts a pleasant atmosphere, 1 VIP lounges, kullanıldıgg the latest technology 135 slot machines and 16 live game tables, Texas Hold'em Poker tables, which is connected to all machine Salamis big winning jackpot systems Casino, returning the head of the high-limit and with a wide variety of gaming options gamers.

Live games : American Roulette, Super Stud Poker, Texas Holdem Poker, Blackjack

Machine games : Cash Fever, Gaminator, Poker, Roulette,Atronic Games, Bingo, Mega Jack, Horse Racing & Betting,Slot Mechines

Tel +90 (0)392 3788200

www.salamisbayconti.com

Palm Beach Hotel and Casino

This is again a 5 star beach fronted hotel complex offering a wide range of gaming options with roulette and blackjack amongst others, as well as slot machines.

With over 100 modern, exciting slots throughout the casino, there is a game for everyone! Video, mechanical, single-token, multi-token, progressive jackpot, bonus games, you name it, we have it!

Novomatic MultiGame Gaminator V+, Bally QuickHit SingleGame, Novomatic TouchScreen SingleGame, Aristocrat SingleGame Bingo, Williams 5 reel SingleGame, Casino Technology MultiGame MegaJack and many more!

Players can enjoy the best games on offer in a relaxed and spacious Live Table area under the chanedliered dome of the main floor. Our experienced and friendly croupiers and dealers offer Roulette, Punto Banco, Blackjack, and Poker in their many forms and varieties.

Russian Poker - One of the most interesting forms of poker around, Russian Poker gives the player the best chance of making that game-winning hand. Multiple card changes and a sixth card ensure that there is never a reason to fold.

Roulette - The epitomy of quality gaming, American roulette tables grace the live game floor.With classic wheels and spacious tables, our courteous croupiers ensure the fun never stops.

Black Jack - Enjoy the classic game of Blackjack with friends or one on one with the Bank. 3 to 2 Blackjack payouts, insurance and helpful dealers help to make this game one of the most popular attractions in the casino.

Three card poker - For those who like to play fast, this game of poker delivers. 1 dealer, 6 players, 3 cards, unlimited fun.

Punto Blanco The Punto Banco table gives you the opportunity to eat the bank or e the bank. Play one on one or with up to 8 more players for an unforgettable experience of excitement at the turn of every card.

Stud Poker Ante up for a classic game of poker. Up to 6 players take on the bank for fantastic payouts. Get a Royal Flush or 4 of a kind and win big!

Luck Poker A game for the true gambler, Luck poker is a poker game where you can win with just one card! Buy up to three cards to beat the bank, the best 3 card hand takes it all.

Tel : +90 (0)392 3662000

http://www.arkinpalmbeachcasino.com/

Kaya Artemis Resort

Located in Bafra, this 5 star resort is located around 30 minutes from Famagusta and is one of the newest hotels in the area. It also has one of the biggest casinos at 3000 m² built Las Vegas style with every gaming option possible! The hotel has 726 rooms as well, so even though it’s a little out of the way you can always book a room and stay overnight if needs be.

Equipped with the latest technology machines and games, Artemis Casino stands out with its grandness. Guests are offered a distinct experience at the spacious bar decorated with diamonds coming down from the sky, VIP lounge Artemis Royal designed for higher bets, Sirius A la Carte Restaurant offering dishes from Turkish-Cypriot and world cuisines.

Live Game/Slot Game

Artemis Casino offers guests the latest technology LCD screen European Roulette, Blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, Baccarat, Novamatic, Mega Jack, Aristocrat video poker, aristocrat video bingo, IGT reel slot atronic video slot.

Get ready for more excitement with the Video Slot, Video Poker, Video Bingo, Multi Games and Reel Slot machines which are guaranteed to raise your adrenaline.

European Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat and Caribbean Stud Poker, live game tables and latest technology slot machines at the Artemis Royal, the largest VIP lounge in the North Cyprus, promise guests top entertainment.

Tel : +90 (0)392 6306000

http://www.kayahotels.com/en/hotels/artemis-casino/

Lefkoşa Area

City Royal Hotel

This hotel has been around for a long time and is a trusted faithful with the business visitor who fancies a flutter – the City Royal Hotel has both a gaming floor and an arcade with plenty of electronic casino games.An international casino, City Royal Hotel & Casino at your service to make your stay a wonderful evening and have fun. Perhaps, you find jackpot tonight.

Game Room

Our room game, American Roulette, Black Jack, Poker, Punto Banco and our traditional game, you'll have a good time. Game room and our Casino is open from 5:00 in the morning every day 15:00 AM.

Games Arcade

In the games Arcade, the Popular Slot Machines, Video bets, there are bingo and electronic roulette games. The game was back and Jackpot Bar is open from 11:00 to 05:00 every day.

Tel – +90 (0)392 2287621

www.city-royal.com

Saray Hotel

Saray Hotel is another stalwart in the heart of Lefkoşa, it has been in operation since 1962 would you believe. Again another favourite businessman haunt, this venue could also be a weekend retreat from which you could take in the sights and sounds of Lefkoşa for instance, it boasts a great view from the hotel roof restaurant – oh and there’s gambling as well with the all the popular gaming options available of course.

Tel + 90 (0)392 228 5350.

Golden Tulip Nicosia Hotel & Casino

Golden Tulip Nicosia Hotel & Casino is loceted only 15 minutes away from the aiport in one of the most prestigious street of Nicosia. The hotel offers 134 rooms divided in standard rooms, corner rooms, suites and a King suite. Free services for the guests such as parking, valet service, daily newspaper, free wireless internet, fitness center, sauna and swimmong pool. A 1300 square meters pool side area suitable for wedding, summer parties and cocktails. Winter weddings in the banquet saloon for up to 250 persones. A rich breakfast is served in the Grenada restaurant. Polanco Restuarant & Bar has both an open anc covered area. The Pasillo Lobby Bar open 24 hours has a smart ambiance and relaxing music . Our casino on a 4000 square meters surface has 7 days live dance show, 2 restaurants and bars. The health club 'Club Blanca' has a 250 suare meters swimmong pool, 2 saunas, 2 massage rooms with staff originating from Bali, bathrobes and slippers for a realxing moment Pasha Casino is the finest casino in Northern Cyprus where quality and service can be experienced with high limited gaming tables and the newest slot machines. Other hotel facilities are Tulipano Lounge, Lobby Bar, SPA & Welness Center, massage rooms, Turkish bath, sauna, coiffeur, boutique and jewelery store.

+90 392 610 50 50

http://www.goldentulipnicosia.com/en

Merit Lefkosa Casino

Merit Lefkoşa Hotel & Casino holds the distinction of being the first five-star hotel of Northern Cyprus’s capital, Lefkoşa. It opened its doors on October 29, 2008 -notable as the anniversary of the founding of the Turkish Republic- and started welcoming its first guests in its service of the tourism of Northern Cyprus. Rising in the heart of Lefkoşa as an artful edifice synthesizing Ottoman and Byzantine architecture, Merit Lefkoşa Hotel offers a scenic view of all of Lefkoşa from the south and north sides of its 14th floor.

Merit Lefkoşa Casino is also decorated to reflect a synthesis of Byzantine and Ottoman culture. It is the island’s largest casino, and its aim is to allow guests to relax with congenial, high-quality service as they try their luck after a tiring day.A high-quality gaming environment served by capable staff with international experience.

North Cyprus seems to glow from within when the sun sets, and the exciting times begin! If you are in the harbour side town of Kyrenia, take a relaxing walk down the historical Kyrenia harbour, where the view of the huge Venetian castle at the end of road will take your breath away as you sit in a café by the sea accompanied by an ice cold drink. If you are after a wild night out and not ready to go back to your North Cyprus hotel, head to one of islands many nightclubs, where you can dance the night away to the fantastic music. Kyrenia’s nightclubs are fun and friendly. Featuring the best local dj talent, this is where all the real revellers end up in Kyrenia to dance the night away.

Kyrenia bars will serve drinks right through into the night, although it might be an idea to have some meze to soak up at least some of the alcohol in the summer heat. Bars vary from the quiet to the loud and boisterous, some with live music, some with wide screen TV. Just chose which one suits you – many exists side by side so it’s never very far to the next one! If you like to sing you can find a veriety of Karaoke clubs.

Most bars and pubs in Kyrenia have some live music, although be advised that the term “live music” does include dj sets. For real live musicians, head to La Habanera in the Rocks Hotel. From Thursday to Sunday, this venue offers some seriously good jazz, not surprising when the Kyrenia Jazz festivalis fast becoming a must-do diary item for jazz fans.

Harbour Bars

The harbour in Kyrenia is unquestionably the most desirable place to while away an hour, an afternoon or even all night, and the horseshoe shaped harbour is home to a whole host of bars and restaurants.

From any of the bars located around the horseshoe shaped harbour you can sit and view all the comings and goings from one end of the strip to the other. You can sit outside in the summer and people watch, or you can sit inside and listen to the excellent music with some bars having their own house bands and singers to entertain you. It is definitely a good place to be seen and is frequented by ‘the beautiful people’ especially in the summer! The decor in many venues is sophisticated, the staff efficient and the ambience is lively but relaxed.

Another nice spot is Boğaz with various bars located around its pretty little harbour area, where you can watch the sun go down of an evening. Being a city Famagustais obviously also home to numerous bars mostly with a more restaurant or club vibe to them but many are still worth checking out.

Music Venues

There seem to be more and more places to enjoy a night of live music in North Cyprus opening every year, whether you fancy listening to live bands or DJs. Many of these venues are either on a beach in a club or a pub. The harbour bars for example will often have live music on a Friday and Saturday night, with local singers doing sets late into the evening.

Hotels often have their own bars hosting music evenings, with jazz being a popular choice for people to meet up and listen to for a great evening’s entertainment – you will find top quality musicians and you can enjoy their music whilst sipping the odd cocktail! You can often find out about these evenings through the hotels’ websites and in the local press.

For the more traditional music bar venues then try the Old Tunnel Rock Bar in Kyrenia, which doesn’t really get going until around 10pm but which has live music and a traditional bar in a rather dark but definitely atmospheric underground location! Or as above, the Narnia Pub or Cadi Kazani Café Barboth in the heart of Lefkoşa are good. Both are traditional bar venues which also have some great bands playing on weekends and weeknights. Another choice in Lefkoşa is the Arancia Nargile Café Car situated in the Selimiye area of Lefkoşa, which, depending on who’s playing that night, is open until 3am.

Traditional & Sports Pubs

Most of the traditional type pubs will also show sports events such as football and rugby, so we have merged the traditional pubs and sports bars into one section for you!

The most popular pub venues tend to be ones where expats will gather for a Saturday beer and to watch a game of footie. At the time of writing these venues include the Castle Pub in Karaoğlanoğlu near to Kyrenia, where they have the obligatory big screen and serve a regular feast of quality pub grub. Another is the Pine Bay Club just along the same main road to the west of Kyrenia which has the same kind of vibe to it, offering big screen sports events as well as darts and pool.

Alternatively there are various other traditional pubs offering draught beers such as the Crows Nest and Spot Bar in Karaman, the Stroll Inn in Karakum or the Back In Time bar in Kyrenia which is home to darts and pool teams too.

There are obviously many more, but we will let you explore to find them!

Most Popular Night Clubs

Escape Beach Club

If you prefer entertainment on the beach, Escape Beach Club is perfect. With stunning private beaches and an excellent entertainment schedule, Escape Beach Club is just the place to party well into the small hours. When you’ve finished dancing, you can watch the sunrise over the Mediterranean Sea.

Ice - Alsancak, +90 (542) 889 3333 Opened 22:30–5 May- September

Loca - Yavuz Çıkarma Plajı Alsancak, +90 392 821 83 30

Cage Club - Catalkoy, at Cratos hotel and Casino 05338242424

Almahara - Lefkosa +90 533 829 3737

Onyx club - 20 Temmuz Kordonboyu Caddesi, Girne +90 392 650 0400

Mad club - Catalkoy at Cratos Casino

Secret Club - Karaoglanoglu, +905338223242

Tango to Buddha - Uğur Mumcu Bulvarı, Girne

Lion's Garden - Famagusta +905338762795

Hamam

THE ‘HAMAM’ or Turkish baths are a cultural mainstay of Turkish-Cypriot life in the North. Whilst the Romans were probably the first to build bath-houses on the island, after conquering Cyprus in the 16th century it was the Ottoman Turks who built countless public baths across the towns and cities and ensured these were accessible to every citizen.

Unfortunately only two of these ancient baths remain in operation today, both in the island’s capital Nicosia, of which the most famous is the Grand Turkish Baths or the Büyük Hamam.

These impressive baths are built on the site of an old 14th century latin church, St George of Latins. Like so many buildings in the island’s capital, the Ottomans changed this church into something more useful for them. As one of the most frequented Turkish baths open to the public during the Ottoman period its services were extremely important, particularly as there were no bathing facilities in many homes.

Today, the ornate Gothic style arched doorway lies sunken approximately three metres below street level. For hundreds of years new buildings and even whole towns were constructed on the ruins of old ones, and at the Büyük Hamam the raised ground level is particularly dramatic. Further, only this sunken entrance remains of the original church and once through the door you are in a real working bath-house.

If you’d rather stay clothed it is possible to look around the Büyük Hamam for a modest fee and it’s definitely worthwhile as the building is architecturally fascinating. However, for those willing to try out the whole hamam experience it is extremely civilised. In accordance with Turkish-Cypriot culture traditional bath-houses have separate facilities for men and women or, if only one hamam is available, different days or times are allocated.

Upon entering the hamam you undress, and wrapped in a towel you head for the “göbek tashi”, a large heated stone in the centre of the baths. Here you will allow your body temperature to rise over the course of about an hour or so. At this stage you can either opt to wash yourself using the camel hair glove provided or alternatively ask to be rubbed down by an attendant or masseur/masseuse. This is is designed to both massage and exfoliate. You can then retire to another room to cool down.

A full bathing and massage experience at the Büyük Hamam costs less than £15, a bargain compared to the cost of spa treatments in some of the hotels. That said, if you want to enjoy a splash of luxury then opt for one of the five-star spa resorts across the region which boast wellbeing centres with their very own modern Turkish baths.

Located in the tourist hub of Kyrenia, the Spa, Health & Beauty Centre at the five-star Rocks Hotel offers Turkish baths with an enticing selection of massages, wraps and scrubs. A fantastic four-star option is the Oscar resort, a short shuttle ride from Kyrenia, again with its own Turkish baths and an extensive range of treatments including traditional Ottoman and Hammam therapy. For those looking for a pampering retreat away from Kyrenia, the Salamis Bay Conti Resort in Famagusta also boasts its own Spa and Wellness Centre. These fabulous resorts ensure that the hamam tradition remains a customary indulgence across the North.

Indeed, whether you opt for the authenticity of the ancient Büyük Hamam in the city or the luxury of a modern hotel spa, the Turkish baths are a cultural experience not to be missed. You can find Hamam in lots of hotels of North Cyprus.

Buyuk Hamam - Irfan Bey Sokak 9, Nicosia +90(548) 830 0881

Acapulco Hotel - Catalkoy, Kyrenia, +90 392 650 4500

The Rocks Hotel - Kordon Boyu Street Girne +90 392 650 0400

Oscar Resort Hotel - No:16, Hasan Esat Işık Sk, Kyrenia +90 392 815 4801

Savoy Ottoman Palace Hotel - Rızkı Cd, Girne 98010 +90 392 444 3000

Malpas Hotel - Cesur Sokak No:4 Kyrenia, (Ozankoy) +90 392 650 3000

Cratos Premium Hotel - Sınır Sk, Ozanköy Bld./Girne/Kıbrıs +90 392 444 42 42

Turtle Watching

There are two main types of sea-turtles nesting along the coasts of Northern Cyprus: these are: Caretta-Caretta (Sini Kaplumbagasi), and Chelonia-Mydas (Yesil Kaplumbaga).

They both are listed as endangered species and under strict protection. Since 1992, Marine Turtle Research group, in conjunction with the Society for the Protection of Turtles in Northern Cyprus and the Department for Environmental Protection, has been undertaking an annual survey, recording the turtle’s activity during the summer months.

In the company of the team at Alagadi Beach , only 30 minute drive east from Almond Holiday Village, North Cyprus, you can share this unique event. Just before sunset you can join the turtle lovers at “The Goat Shed” at Alagadi. First you are given information about the turtles and the project, and then, when darkness falls, you will be taken down to one of the two Alagadi bays. There you will wait while the students survey the beaches.

As soon as a female has begun to lay, you are, in silence, allowed to approach the nesting place. (No photoflashes are allowed at this important time). After about 50 days the small hatchlings begin to emerge from the surface of their sandy nests. This is another fantastic experience that takes place in some forty nesting beaches around Northern Cyprus.

All are welcome to participate in this event as well to witness up to a hundred of these amazing little creatures, not more than 6-7 cm long, fight their way from the nest down to the sea, is an unforgettable sight. It is sad fact that only one in thousand survive. Even less would survive if it was not for the special conversation project taking place here in North Cyprus concerning this endangered species. The best times to observe the nesting is at the end of June and beginning of July. To observe the hatching is the best during end of August and beginning of September.

Call: +905338725350 (Jun 1st-Sept 30th)

Fishing

Fishing in the Lapta & Kyrenia Harbour has traditionally been a feature of this area. The eastern part of the Kyrenia harbour has remained the area for local and foreign residents to moor their boats while the west side of the harbour gathers many local and tourist fishermen with their rods…Whereas Lapta harbor is a proper working harbor for fisherman and fish suppliers – This harbor also is home to The Almonds own fishing boat.

Apart from Kyrenia, the most developed fisheries of North Cyprus are those of Güzelyurt , Korucam, Famagusta and the Karpaz Peninsula. The villages of Bogaz and Kumyali belong to the main fishing centers of the Karpaz.

The charming coastal village of Bogaz is rich in fish restaurants lining its harbour which make it a truly magnificent feature. There are no restrictions on fishing along coasts in northern Cyprus, which gives you a splendid variety of coasts/coves to explore.

Fishing in the waters of Northern Cyprus has become a fascinating experience with the help of favourable weather conditions of the Mediterranean providing the possibility of being able to go out on the sea for most days of the year. From peacock and rainbow wrasses, blennies and gobies, small parrot fish, mackerels, cods, plaices, sea basses, breams, eels, tunas, swordfish, red soldier fish and two siganids (rabbit fish) which belong to the most abundant commercial fish in Cyprus, North Cyprus coasts offer a very large variety of fish, which exceeds 80 species.

Angling in Reservoirs – According to the revised Fisheries Law Cap. 170 of 1990, the Fisheries Regulations of 1990, Regulation 12, special licenses must be obtained for those interested in angling in dams from the Head Office of Fisheries Department and Marine Research in Lefkosia or from the District Offices of Fisheries Department.

Fishing Trips – The Almond , offers many excursions as well as private charter & daily sailings and fishing trips from the harbour of Lapta and Kyrenia. The more experienced fishermen also have the chance to fish at deep sea. The sailings are available for groups and families wishing to explore the coastline or just relax on the open sea. The season lasts from mid March until the end of November although fishing trips can be arranged all year round weather permitting.

Kyrenia Harbour:

Mobile (Paul) 0533 842 9965

email: paul@circumcyprus.com

Mobile (Emin) 0533 877 9607

email: etongrli@yahoo.com

Website: www.circumcyprus.com

Bogaz -Karpaz fishing tours:LOREM IPSUM

Tel: + 90 392 37 12 558, + 90 392 37 12 559

Fax: + 90 392 37 12 557

Email: bogazhotel@superonline.com

Website: www.bogazhotel.com

Caving

There are several caves in Northern Cyprus that you are free to explore. Hot Cave, north of Agirdag village on the southern slopes of the Five Finger Mountains, is a partially collapsed – entering in not advised. Warm air emanates from the cave, hence the name.

Another natural cave in Girne area is the Guvercinlik Cave near Alevkayasi. Access to the cave involves some fairly difficult climbing. There are three more caves in the Gazi Magusa area. The most stunning cave is Incirli Cave, recently renovated, a hundred meter long passage which contains an amazing collection of stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is opened on Sundays (or by special arrangement with the village muhtar), a small entrance fee is charged.

Gastro Cave between Kuruova and Kaleburnu villages is a man made cave containing three rooms. Finally the ominously named Execution Cave, near Kaleburnu where there is said to be a golden earthenware jar hidden somewhere in the cave.

Go-Karting

The ZET International Karting Circuit and Cemsa Karting Circuit , both exceeding the highest European standards – having the best racing surfaces in the region. Both circuits have structure which is un-matched even in Europe and are situated on the outskirts of Nicosia , only 30 minute drive from Almond Holiday Village.

Summary Karting & Leisure - +90 533 866 6173

Cemsa Karting Club - +90 392 223 62 35

Max Mile Power - +90 392 364 88 89

Paragliding

The flight of a lifetime….After an easy take off involving a few steps down a gentle slope, from 2500ft/750m, you will be treated to spectacular views of the unique scenery of Northern Cyprus.

Whether you want a gentle scenic flight or an adrenaline joy ride, your pilot can tailor your flight to suit you. St Hilarion Castle is on the way to the Paragliding take off site, and you can get wonderful views of the castle as well as treating yourself to Kyrenia under your feet. Your flight will end after a gentle and controlled landing on the Kyrenia Coast. Pickup from The Almond Hotel for free, photos and T-shirts are also available. You do not need training as your pilot will guide you throughout your 2 hour lifetime experience. Contact The Almondsfor more details.

Kyrenia, Yacht Harbor, No 114+90 542 859 43 43

North Cyprus Festivals

The main Festivals are listed below by month. There may also be other festivals/events which are promoted at short notice, so when you have settled into your accommodation, ask at reception or look on their notice boards for any information.

March:

Children’s Festival (Famagusta) – this festival continues throughout march for approximately a month and has many events for children ongoing through the festival.

The Tepebasi Village wild tulip Festival (and some orchid species) found in only a few locations in North Cyprus, the Karpaz region and the village of Tepebasi in Guzelyurt.

The traditional “Avtepe Medosa Tulip Festival is held. Combining a lot of historical and cultural values of the charming village of Karpaz Yenierenköy. The festival is held in cooperation with the Municipality

Eastern Mediterranean International Underwater Photography And Film Festival

April/May:

International Spring Concerts (dates vary) – Organised by the Friends of Music Association of North Cyprus is very popular amongst the “classical music “ lovers. Taking place during April and May every year, held at the Medieval Temple Bellapais Monastery – these concerts should not be missed.

Ozankoy Flower Festival – Normally held towards the beginning of May, It incorporates a book festival, crafts, souvenirs, as well as crafts, painting, photography contests. This great festival also has music concerts, live and dried flower arrangement, flower, fruit and vegetable farming and food & beverage competitions.

HisarKoy Orchid Festival – Held in April by Lapta Council at Hisarkoy – magical for flower lovers.

Silk Festival of Cyprus – held in in early May each year, the festival has Seminars, workshops, crafts and painting exhibitions, slide shows, music concerts, folklore shows and nature tours, the festival continues for 3 days.

Northern Cyprus Bellapais International Music Festival.- An International music festival held every year, bringing together many composers and artists from around the world. It is sited in the historic Bellapais Abbey.

Pekmez (molasses) Festival in Ozankoy takes place every year in May, do not be put off by the title, it actually deals with the ‘Carob’ fruit.

Büyükkonuk Eco-Tourism Festival – held in the village of Büyükkonuk (on route to the Karpaz) This festival deals with local village life and takes into consideration ecology issues. Weather permitting a festival is held in the village every third sunday from May through to October.

June:

Iskele International Folk Dance Festival (lasts about two weeks around mid june)

Gazi Mağusa (Famagusta) International Art & Culture Festival. The festival is located near Salamis Antique Theatre has an international quality with many cultural arts activities. Apart from local artist , Cesaria Evora, Boney M, Monica Molina, Goran Bregovic, Vicente Amigo, Weather Girls, Amelita Baltar Tango Diva, Roby Lakatos, Los Paraguayos, Aswad, Paco Pena and his group, the Bolshoi Ballet, the Compania Aida Gomez , Giora Feidman, Viktorio Tolstoy have appeared here.

Lapta Tourism Festival – Normally held in early june and lasting over 3-4 days, this festival has something for everyone, from visiting dance groups from different countries as well as local talent and products to see & buy. If you are hungry there is a variety of local foods & drinks on sale. It usually starts at about 8:30pm in the cooler part of the day.

June/July:

Güzelyurt Orange Festival – This festival has been organized every year since 1977 by the Guzelyurt Municipality during June and July. During the festival you have the chance to taste the world famous North Cyprus Oranges as well as listening to concerts and watching art events and competitions being performed.

Iskele Festival – Normally takes place in the first week of June and can run for about 10-12 days The festival features dance shows, competitions as well as cultural and sports activities. There is normally a fair and a colourful opening ceremony.

International Bellapais Music Festival – continues

Famagusta International Festival. – This festival has previously hosted groups like Aswad, Los Paraguayos and the Berlin Art Ensemble. It deservedly claims to be the best festival in the Mediterranean . The festival is held between June and July in Famagusta.

July :

Esentepe Apricot Festival

Gönyeli Folk Dance Festival

Alsancak Folk Dance Festival

August:

Mehmetçik Grape & Wine Festival

Yeniboğaziçi Pulya Festival

Golden Grapes Film Festival

The International Cyprus Theatre Festival. – A celebration of theatre running from mid August to the beginning of September, and stages performances in Nicosia, Famagusta and Kyrenia venues, including the theatre at Salamis and the Ataturk Cultural Centre.

September/October:

Miss Pearl of Europe competition – held at various venues in Nicosia

North Cyprus International Music & Theatre Festival – featuring a varied selection of music including: chamber music, symphonic rock, choir, flamenco, tango and recitals, being performed in historic settings such as Bellapais Monastery, Salamis Amphitheatre and Kyrenia Castle.

Kyrenia International Olive Festival – The Municipality of Kyrenia organizes the Olive Festival in the village of Zeytinlik, in order to promote and encourage olive production and also increase tourism potential of Girne. This annual festival normally held at the beginning of October and lasting for abt 10-12 days, features Cypriot and Turkish dancing, costumed parades, flags from around the world and plenty to eat and drink.

International Carob Festival

International “Salsa Jam In Cyprus” Festival – As it’s title suggests this festival invites artists & DJ’s from about 30 countries, and it incorporates stage shows over about 3 days. The last festival culminated in a spectacular feast of music.

October /November:

Büyükkonuk Eco-Tourism Festival – held in the village of Büyükkonuk (on route to the Karpaz) This festival deals with local village life and takes into consideration ecology issues. Weather permitting a festival is held in the village every third sunday from May through to October.

December:

Kyrenia Jazz Festival. – Every December, the Rocks Hotels plays host to the Kyrenia Jazz festival. This festival is growing year by year and now attracts international players to entertain the many jazz fans in Northern Cyprus.

North Cyprus Shopping Guide

Tourists can find a wide range of consumer goods in the shops of North Cyprus. Some of the biggest brands of the world are available in the local supermarkets. Astro and Lemar are the most popular supermarkets in North Cyprus. VAT, ranging between 2 and 20 %, is levied on most of the goods and services. Fresh produce may be purchased from any of the small stores and markets. North Cyprus, in general, has quite a few shops selling imitations of contemporary designer clothes, accessories, and colourful and cute clothes for children. Silver and copper products, wood carvings, basketry, ceramics and handicrafts are also good things to shop for in North Cyprus. Nicosia and Kyrenia are two good shopping destinations that offer a wide range of shops.

Shopping in Kyrenia

The area behind the old harbour in Kyrenia has many shops located in a series of narrow streets. Each of these twisting streets has its own distinct character and tourists can spend hours in this area, shopping for anything from high street fashion and retail therapy to souvenirs and mementos. The high street in Kyrenia begins at the statue of the White Dove and tourists can shop at the fine boutiques, jewellery stores and even grocers outlets here. Liquor and cigarettes are popular purchases as they are relatively cheap, with local brandy retailing at approximately ₤1.10 per bottle. Tourists are advised to keep an eye on their permitted customs allowances while buying liquor and cigarettes. Raki, wine and brandy are some of the specialities of North Cyprus. Kyrenia is famous for fake designer clothing which is of a very high quality, though the clothes cost only a fraction of what they would cost back home. The quality and price does differ from shop to shop and it is advisable that you have a look around before you buy. The open market in Kyrenia is another popular shopping area.

Handicrafts

Bazaar shops in the various towns and villages of North Cyprus are ideal places to pick up Turkish pottery, silk, scarves, cushion covers, tiles and ornaments. Paneri or Sista (basketry items) are of a superior quality and therefore more expensive. Large and strong baskets for clothes are found in the village of Edremit and at North Nicosia as well. Most of the basketry items are made in the remote villages of Gonendere, Gornec and Serdarli.

Lefkara Lace

One of the most interesting things to bring back from Cyprus is embroidered linen. Lefkara lace embroidery is a Cypriot tradition dating back to the Venetian era when women learnt to make intricate and beautiful lace designs with drawn thread. It is said that Leonardo Da Vinci was so enchanted by Lefkara embroidery that he carried back embroidered cloth with the "potamos" (river) design to drape over the altar in the Milan Cathedral. Tablecloths, bedcovers, headscarves and doilies made from Lefkara embroidery are good souvenirs.

Rugs/Kilims

North Cyprus is famous for carpets and small floor rugs (kilims) with vivid designs. Carpet weaving is an age-old tradition and is found predominantly in the region of Gazimağusa. Weaving wicker baskets is another old art form of Cyprus and wicker baskets are popular with both the tourists and the locals.

Jewellery

For those interested in the precious metals, North Cyprus has many gold and silver shops in each of its major towns. The jewellery comes in many sizes, shapes and designs and is sometimes combined with precious stones. Most shops sell by weight, and the prices are very competitive and reasonable.

Golf

Korineum Golf Club

Korineum Golf Resort Hotel is literally just a chip shot from the international 18-hole golf course at the Korineum Club, set above the coast and with lovely views down to the sea. Golf fans can enjoy luxury accommodation and world-class golf, while their families can enjoy the swimming pool, private sandy beach, the spa and the excellent restaurant!

Golfing is a relaxing and competitive sport which is getting more and more popular in North Cyprus by the day. The sunny climate means you can enjoy golf at its best on the amazing golf fields. The weather conditions between November and March is generally cool, ideal for attempting to beat your previous golf records! From May until the end of summer it is best you avoid playing when the sun is at its strongest at midday. September and October are perfect months to perfect your techniques as it searing summer heat has cooled down.

The Korinium Esentepe Golf and Country Club is a golf course situated in the village of Esentepe on the outskirts of Kyrenia. This 18-hole standard gold course is of very high quality and one of the best in the Mediterranean. This golf club includes all the usual things you come to expect at a top of the range gold course: greens, sand bunkers and water hazards. This large 6,600 yard course has been created amongst beautiful and natural greenery with beautiful views of the quiet countryside. The never ending green carpet of grass are watered by the man made reservoirs to keep fresh all year round.

Esentepe Golf Course North Cyprus: facilities

If you are a beginner to golf, why not practise your swing at the 295m x 100m 30 bay driving range? Or if you are not confident enough, perhaps some lessons at the gold academy which also boasts its own three holes, will get you in the swing of things. Take a relaxing break to restore your energy at the 19th hole at the clubhouse with a revitalising drink, or eat a lovely meal at the nearby 200 seat restaurant. If you would like to save all of your energy for the golf, there are golf carts available to take you to your next location.

Planned developments for Korinium Esentepe Golf and Country Club

Future planned developments for this great golf course include villas very near to the gold course so will be able to enjoy golf all day long without having to waste time travelling. Also, a hotel along the golf course is in plan for those who want the ultimate dream golf break in North Cyprus.

Cengiz Topel Golf Course, North Cyprus

What can be better than feeling the refreshing breeze from the sea over your skin as you concentrate on your favourite sport? All this can be yours if you visit the Cengiz Topel Golf Course situated near the Guzelyurt (Omorfo) region. This course boasts two loops of nine holes, with a total par of 70 and pans a distance of a amazing 5,233 yards.

The Cengiz Topel Golf Course aims at everyone, from beginners to the experts. If you believe you are a good golfer and like a good challenge then the seaside holes are for you. It is somewhat different to your typical golf course, as in some areas the greens are taken over by brown (sand and oil) which creates a great surface for putting.

You can visit this golf course everyday of the week, and you are able to hire clubs for your gold round. If you would like a opportunity to get to know the local golfers and play a round of golf with them, it is highly recommended that you visit on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Keep in mind that you must wear golfing shoes whilst on the course and t-shirts and jeans are not allowed. The gold course greens are watered from a local dam, so it does not use up the drinking water resources of North Cyprus.

Scuba Diving / Water Sports

North Cyprus welcomes you to the fascinating and unique underwater world of the Mediterranean. You will find crystal-clear, unpolluted water where the marine life is still undisturbed. Underwater visibility can be more than 30 meters. Down in the deep and warm blue sea you will meet sting rays, amber jacks, scorpions, bream, grouper, cuckoo, wrasse, and now and then a sea turtle.

The underwater terrain is furthermore an ideal place for octopus and moray eel, colourful sponges, corals, as well as treasures from ancient times. You can choose from over twenty diving sites east and west of Kyrenia as well as diving safaris to other places along the coast. These are sites that will give the experienced diver thrills and the warm, crystal-clear water and limited depth provide perfect learning condition for beginner.

You can experience wreck diving including the site where in the 1960’s one of the worlds oldest shipwreck was found – 2 300 years old, dating from the time of Alexander the Great. The excavated hull of the ship, together with its cargo of amphora and millstones is housed in a special museum in Kyrenia Castle.

Amphora Scuba Diving Center

Situated at the Kervansaray beach, is also active at Almond Holiday Village, North Cyprus. Once a week and on request “try-dives “are available at The Almonds for free!!! Also free pickup/delivery from/to The Almond to Amphora Diving Center is available.

Besides scuba diving, several local beaches as well as Escape Beach boast all types of water sports such as Jet-Skiing, Water-skiing, Wind Surfing, Parascending and banana rides.Boat Trips from the harbor of Kyrenia can be organized – private charter & daily sailings as well as the fishing trips…..Please get in touch with Almond Holiday Village for more details.

Nautilus Diving School: +90 392 227 3160

British Scuba Centre: +90 533 868 3165

Scuba Diving Cyprus: +90 0533 865 2317

Kingdom Dive Diving Services & Education: +90 533 855 2277

Amphora Scuba Diving Centre: +90 542 851 4924

Cyprus Underwater Explorers:+90 533 842 5026

Turtle Bay Dive Centre: +90 533 849 6266

Pier Dive Hub: +90 860 0119

Water parks

Acapulco, Oscar and Lapethos Hotels all have great water parks for both residents and non-residents. They have large pools, slides, flumes and even organised daily pool and poolside activities for children in the summer. There is also a dedicated water park in Catalkoy called Octopus Aqua Park which is also popular with its friendly Restaurant & Bar, which makes it a fun place both for children and adults. And last but not least, Lapta Aqua Club is the newest and largest addition to water parks in Kyrenia and can be found by following the signs as you leave Alsancak towards Lapta. Also Elexus hotel preparing big aqua park for children.

Octopus Aqua Park

Address: Besparmak Caddesi, Catalkoy (8 km of Kyrenia)

Tel.: 853 96 74

Open: 8 am – 5 pm daily during summer

Description: Watery and dry apparatus with slides, pool bar and restaurant.

Acapulco Holiday Resort

Address: Catalkoy, Kyrenia via Mersin 10 Turkey

Tel.: + 90392 824 44 10/11 Fax: + 90392 824 44 55

E-mail: info@acapulco-yourcyprusportal.com

This Cyprus hotel complex includes a big swimming pool with 3 slides, children swimming pool and other facilities like catering, changing rooms or sport facilities.

Riverside Holiday Village

Address: Alsancak, Kyrenia, via Mersin 10 Turkey

Tel.:+ 90 392 821 8906 - 07, + 90 392 821 2211 - 12 -13 -14

Fax: + 90 392 821 8908

E-mail: riverside@riversideholidayvillage.com

The complex comprises both indoor and outdoor swimming pool with 4 slides and water chutes that guarantee lots of splashing for children and adults.

Exotic Hotel, Iskele

Address: Bogaz, Iskele, Mersin 10 Turkey

Tel.: + 90 392 3712885-81 - 3713012

Fax: + 90 392 3713220

E-mail: exoticnorthcyprus net

reservations at: exoticmirillo@superonline.com

Includes smaller water park along with other facilities.

Paintball

If you want to add fun to your holiday in North Cyprus, and if you have come with your family or friends, Painball centers can be a goodfun for you. In 15 short years, the sport of paintball has become recognized as one of the world's most exciting outdoor participation sports. Paintball is played in over 40 countries by millions of men and women of all ages and lifestyles. Whether homemakers or high-school students, professionals or retirees, all paintball players share in common a love for adventure and a strong competitive spirit.

Places to play Paintball in North Cyprus:

Paint Zone (Nicosia) - +90 542 889 27 41

PaintBall Bar in Cyprus (Famagusta) - +90 533 865 61 91

The Sunset Club (Girne) - +90 533 865 4959

PaintBall Cyprus (Nicosia) - +90 533 844 46 44

Haskar Paintball (Morphou) - +90 533 864 46 44

Daily Boat Trips

Both Kyrenia and Famagusta Harbours have a range of daily boat trips available that are a fantastic chance to spend a day out on the beautiful waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Great for families, couples and singles, as well as groups of friends, there's simply no denying the joy of cruising past the flawless beaches and crystal clear water that lie around Northern Cyprus. Each cruise will differ from another but generally they will include at least one meal (normally lunch) and have multiple stops on beautiful beaches and bays that allow people to swim, snorkel and play in the water. Often water sports will be available but sometimes at a daily cost, and snorkels and floats are almost always on board, but there might not be a guarantee that there will be enough for everyone. Overall, cruising around the breathtaking coasts of North Cyprus will remind you exactly of why you decided to holiday in such a fantastic part of the world, and help create the sorts of memories that will last a lifetime.

Clay Pigeon Shooting

this popular sport has been going for some years in North Cyprus and the Gönyeli Gun Club near Lefkoşa is open Tuesday-Saturday from 2p.m. and offers Skeet and Trap shooting. For more information contact +90 (0)533 8460641.

Cycling

you can hire bikes yourself via Kozan in Karşiyaka on the west coast or partake in cycling tours with some companies very dedicated to ensure you see the best of the island. Group tours and holidays can be organised with transportation for bikes included. Try either Cyprus Cycling on +90 (0)542 8515500 or Cyprus Active via their website www.cyprusactive.com or by telephone +90 (0)533 831 9072.

Ice skating

Why not test out your balancing skills and your grace and agility by having a go at the new modern venue Ice-Bowling in Famagusta. It’s near to the Eastern Mediterranean University in Famagusta – but note, the ice rink is not made of ice but it’s artificial – however that shouldn’t detract from the fun!

Racket Sports – Badminton/Squash/Tennis

there are various facilities available usually within local belediye sports halls and facilities, university campuses and hotel resorts, so you can always find out when they are free and book yourself up for a session of wrist flicking fun! Try the excellent facilities at the Middle East Technical University in Lefkoşa or the Ertuğrul Apakan Sports Hall in Kyrenia for badminton. Tennis courts are modern and asphalted for those who fancy a bit of ball bouncing, and most of the time you don’t need to book, just turn up and you should find a free court. Some of the universities have tennis facilities such as the Girne American University, contact +90 (0) 392 650 2000 for more information.

Rugby

North Cyprus has a very healthy rugby scene due to the current Pumas team! You may like to get involved and they would be more than happy to have you on board. They train and play at Alsancak Belediye stadium and have a fixture list which includes trips to play teams in Turkey too. Contact them via their website www.cypruspumas.com for more information.

Archery

a more sedate activity but still one which can be quite addictive, requiring concentration and precision – something which you might find you have in abundance if you are on holiday! You can try the centre in Çatalköy on the east coast, contact +90 (0)533 846 7463 or also the Kaya Artemis Resort in Bafra offers archery lessons, contact +90 (0)392 630 6000.

Bowling

A new bowling facility opened in 2008 and we think it is just called Ice-Bowling – it’s on the old Lefkoşa road in Famagusta, near to the Eastern Mediterranean University. This new bowling alley means you can now go ten pin bowling in a state of the art facility which has 10 bowling lanes! Perfect for a great night out spent with friends – and you can also try out the ice skating at the same venue too!

King's Leisure Centre (Girne) - +90 392 444 6070

Star Bowling (Girne) - +90 392 815 9578

Astro Bowling Alleys (Nicosia) - +90 392 223 2388

Ice Bowling (Famagusta) - +90 392 336 5395

Horse Riding

there are various establishments which offer horse riding treks up into the mountains of North Cyprus, but be careful who you choose as the standards are sometimes not what you would expect compared to your home country. One of the most popular riding stables is the Çatalköy Riding Club which offers lessons as well as wonderful days out on horseback with themed routes. Check out their site www.catalkoyridingclub.com or call +90 (0)392 824 4030 to find out more. There is also the Cemsa Riding School in Lefkoşa which has stables located next to the racing circuit facilities – the animals certainly don’t seem to mind the racket!

Tunac Equestrian Sport Club (Karaoglanoglu-Girne) - +90 392 822 2393

Levent Riding Club (Haspolat) - +90 533 877 5888

Carat Riding Scooll (Nicosia) - +90 533 833 0144

Catalkoy Riding Club (Catalkoy) - +90 533 845 4742

Asian Akova Sports Club (Akova) - +90 532 852 6285

Cinema

When we talk about cinema in North Cyprus, we don’t just mean the usual blockbuster movies that anyone can see no matter where in the world they live, we also mean that North Cyprus does have its own budding cinematic scene. So, you will find the usual cinema facilities in the city areas, but there are also a number of art house cinema venues which are popular places for people wishing to see something different.

Arts venues are host to various screenings, with offerings from local and international film makers, and you can see them in a variety of places such as at Sidestreets in Lefkoşa. Often these cinematic events are bought together by both Turkish and Greek Cypriots, who seem to thrive on working closely to provide a vibrant arts scene.

You can also attend films shown as part of the yearly North Cyprus International Film Festival, which normally occurs in May each year. This festival combines films from an international perspective, including many small independently made films. Films are generally available to see on a rotation basis via the main cinema venues, which are detailed at the end of this article. However, most of them are shown in their native language with Turkish subtitles, so it’s worth checking out the local press for those films that will be shown in your mother tongue.

Another film fest is the Golden Grapes Film Festival, (we like the name!), held in August every year, and this is aimed at both local professional and amateur film makers who present their offerings and are then judged by a panel which features some prominent filmmakers in their own right.

The main cinemas in North Cyprus show the usual American and British blockbusters, and are the films often rotated weekly between each city and town venue. Trusty Cyprus Today publishes the weekly film guide, and at the time of writing you can find cinemas at:

Lefkoşa

Galleria Cinema Club – +90 (0)392 2277030

Mısırlızade Galleria Cinema club – +90 (0)392 2289698

Lemar Cineplex – +90 (0)392 2235395

Kyrenia

Lemar Cineplex – +90 (0)392 8223565

Starlux Cinema - +90 392 444 3777

Famagusta

Galleria Cinema Club – +90 (0)3651270

Güzelyurt

Lemar Cineplex – +90 (0)392 7146940

Walking

Highlights of the Kyrenia Mountain Range

Besparmark (Five-Fingers) Walking Trail

Kantara Crusader Castle Walking Trail

Alevkaya Forest Walking Trail

Bellapais Abbey Walking Trail

Antiphonitis Monastery Walking Trail

A taxi driver familiar with each of the walking routes will bring you to the starting point of each walk. From here you will follow a detailed description of the walking trail to reach your final destination point. On arrival at the final destination the taxi driver will meet you (pick-up time will be prearranged) and take you back to your hotel.

Walking trails are from an easy to a medium level of difficulty, and range from 2-5 hours in duration. Good, solid footwear is recommended! Walking poles are also useful, as well as a small rucksack for water and food, and some sun-protection. In spring and autumn a raincoat is useful to have close at hand, although it is rarely needed! All you need to do is decide which days of your holiday you would like to walk on!

Yachting

Yacht and boat tours are available throughout the summer from Girne Harbour. There are many vendors, so take time to find a suitable service. Many are full day excursions and include swimming, fishing and barbeques. There are also tours which depart from the port in Gazi Magusa and sail along the Karpaz Peninsula.

Spa and Health clubs

The number of Spa and Health Clubs in North Cyprus are growing and improving. This will be a great attraction for the discerning holidaymakers who enjoy some special treatments, pampering and a totally relaxing indulgence while enjoying the unique and beautiful area of northern Cyprus island. Most of hotels on North Cyprus have Spa. Check our information aboout hotels.

Every corner of North Cyprus is blessed with natural beauty, from its tall green mountains, to its forest buzzing with wildlife and its glistening beaches where the turtles flock, this island really does offer you everything you could ever want from a nature holiday. There is no need you feel you are in over your head with all the beautiful nature spots to take in as North Cyprus is a fairly small country where it is possible to see various beaches, mountains adorned with mysterious caves, valleys of beautiful flowers and forests all in one day! The Cyprus nature is really something that should be indulged in each season: as the trees blossom in spring, the transformation of the yellow grass turning green in winter. It all makes for spectacular viewing all year round.

Mountain walking in North Cyprus

The Kyrenia Mountains will help you experience all the great aspects of North Cyprus’s wildlife nature and plant-life as well as beautiful scenery of the mountains surrounding you and the beach down below facing north. There are walks organized by North Cyprus groups who have a guide who knows all there is to know about the area and will take you to all the nature hotspots.

North Cyprus Wildflowers

North Cyprus is home to over twenty species of wild flowers that can't be found anywhere else on earth, and if you want to make sure you see them all, without overlooking them in the wild, take a trip to the Herbarium in Alevkaya near Kyrenia. At the arrival of summer you can expect to see juicy citrus fruits hanging from their branches and the steady of the delicious red jewels that is pomegranates. By September cyclamens of Cyprus and the autumn crocuses begin to adorn the Kyrenia Mountains.

Orchids

Orchids are one of the most adored and sought after flower for wildflower lovers and if you are planning on visiting North Cyprus, you are in for a marvellous treat as the islands many mountains are covered in up to 30 different species of the wild orchids. Indeed, no plant family has as many different flowers as the orchid family. There are about 24,000 accepted species of orchids, and about 800 new species are added each year. If you're a serious botanist or just a flower lover, and don't want to miss a single orchid, there are tours available to show you as many species as possible including some which are highly rare and exotic. As well as the Orchids there is a great range of other wild flowers including cyclamens, Narcissi and Crocuses, each as beautiful as the last and they are scattered around the regions of North Cyprus so that if you go for a casual walk or a serious hike, cycle or drive you should see at least one as they adorn the mountains, hills and fields that surround the towns and villages. Orchid tours are the most popular but there are also general wildflower tours so that the beauty of these endemic species can truly be appreciated by all.

Butterflies

If you have gone on a wildflower walk, expect to be accompanied by butterflies of a million different colors as they dance around you and the flowers.

Fungus in North Cyprus

The majority of fungus as we know them are in the form of mushrooms (although truffles are also fungi) and largely are tasty and fine to eat but some variations are inedible and poisonous. The ability to tell the difference between the two generally takes a lot of mushroom knowledge but there's one thing that you don't have to worry about and that's how good they taste when they've been expertly prepared and cooked by a traditional Cypriot chef. North Cyprus is home to 109 different species of fungi; with many more believed to exist that haven't yet been studied.

Bird Watching

Cyprus is in a prime position for catching sight of many different species of birds. There are 347 in total, though most of these are in transit, 46 are native to North Cyprus while 7 are completely unique to the area. Twice yearly you'll catch flocks of birds on their migration route, which makes for a beautiful and rare experience.

Every March to May is the time of northward migration while August to October is southward. For this reason North Cyprus is a popular location to go bird watching in. There are various locations from which you can get the best views. These include the seductive sandy sliver of the Karpas peninsula, where much exotic wildlife retreats to. Birds you might spot here include orioles and bee-eaters, rollers and if you explore the peninsula further you might see some Audouin's gulls.

The Kyrenia Mountains provide one of the best watching spots too, surrounding you with scenery that makes you feel truly lost in nature and at an advantageous perspective to see the birds that swoop through this setting. Kantara castle is not only a fascinating historical sight but it also offers the chance to catch a glimpse of birds such as the charismatically named spectacled warbler or resident wheatear. Since 1989 the North Cyprus Society for the Protection of Birds (NCSPB) has worked with other environmental groups such as the local Greenpeace to help protect in particular the few endemic birds in Cyprus. Whether or not you're interested in bird watching, there's no doubt that if you have the chance to see just a few of the many that spread their wings across the island you'll be mesmerized by the views they create and the spark they add to the atmosphere.

Out of 347 different species of bird in North Cyprus, 7 are endemic to the area.

Below is a short list of a few of these:

Native Birds:

The Skylark, The Chaffinch, The Greater Spotted Cuckoo, The Scarlet Wheatear, The Mountain Swift, The Crested Cormorant, The Scarlet Vulture, The Rock Partridge, The Turtle Dove, The Diurnal Owl, The Kestrel, The Blue Raven, The Rock Swallow, The Rock Dove, the Manx Shearwater, The Blue Rock Fieldfare, The Dwarf Owl, the Crested Skylark, The Raven, The Cyprus Warbler, The Great Titmouse, The Canary, The Goldfinch Spring

Migrants Birds:

The Hummingbird, The Cuckoo, The Island Wheatear, The Kingfisher, The Black Red tail, The Golden Oriole, The Starling, The Cane, The Garden Warbler, The European Robin, The Blackbird, The Fieldfare, The Stock Dove Falcon, The Grey Heron, The Purple Heron, The Willow Warbler, The Flamingo, The Wheatear, The Whitethroat, The Lapwing.

North Cyprus Society for the Protection of Birds (NCSPB)

website: http://www.kuskor.org/index.html

Marine life

If you would you like to experience the thrill of observing the wild marine life in a way you have never before, then hit the nearest beach and get your gear ready because scuba diving will offer you the chance to do so. Welcome to the fascinating and unique underwater world of North Cyprus, where you can enjoy one of the longest diving seasons in the Mediterranean.

You will find crystal-clear, unpolluted water where the marine life is still undisturbed. Underwater visibility can be more than 30 meters.

Down in the deep and warn blue you will meet sting rays, amber jacks, scorpions, bream, grouper, cuckoo, wrasse, and now and then a sea turtle. The under water terrain is furthermore an ideal place for octopus and moray eel, colorful sponges, soft, soft corals, as well as treasures from ancient times. You can choose from about twenty diving sites east and west of Kyrenia as well as diving safaris to other places along the coast.

These are sites that will give the experienced diver thrills and the warm, crystal-clear water and limited depth provide perfect learning condition for beginner.

You can experience wreck diving including the site where in the 1960's on of the world's oldest shipwreck was found - 2 300 years old, dating from the time of Alexander the Great. The excavated hull of the ship, together with its cargo of amphorae and millstones is hosed in a special museum in Kyrenia Castle. You will be accompanied by professional divers who will do everything to give you an unforgettable diving holiday. We also want to inform you that Scuba Diving along the coast of North Cyprus is not allowed on your own. And it is illegal to move or ouch any historical artifacts.

There are two main types of sea-turtles nesting along the coasts of Northern Cyprus; these are: Caretta-Caretta (Sini Kaplumbagasi), and Chelonia-Mydas (Yesil Kaplumbaga). The both are listed as endangered species and under strict protection.

About 46 sandy beaches in North Cyprus comprise the main nestling ground for these endangered Chelonia Mydas and Caretta Caretta sea turtles in the Eastern Mediterranean. In 1992, about 1,500 rare female turtles laid eggs on the shores of North Cyprus.

Turtle Watching

Can you imagine a sight more heart warming than watching baby turtles, newly hatched from their little eggs, running towards the wavy seas as they face their new life? This is a common occurrence that you can take part in to watch in certain beaches in North Cyprus. The mother turtle will typically come to shore in the middle of the night to lay her eggs, after she has left her 20th birthday behind and is mature enough to mate. The mother turtle visits the North Cyprus shores during the spring month of May to furiously dig down a 40cm deep hole in the sand, where she hide her eggs and keep them protected with a covering of the cool sand until July. The mother turtle’s job is now complete until the baby turtles hatch in July, where they have been developing amidst the cool sands where air is trapped.

In June, two months later, the baby turtles escape from their little holes in the coolest times of the day, in a hectic rush to reach to the sea and begin their life.

The first thing a newly hatched baby turtle does is head towards the nearest light it can see, which means we usually see them scuttling off towards the sea as they see the moons reflection in the sea. However, sadly, this can not always be the case, as most beaches now have buildings and other developments taking place on the coastline, which confuses the newly hatched turtles, causing them to take the wrong direction and most likely not survive. North Cyprus takes great pride in protecting these turtles and has created a safe haven for over 300 green turtles and countless loggerhead turtles by providing special beaches for them to lay their eggs.

Turtle nesting sites in North Cyprus

The green and loggerhead turtles are listed under the endangered species list, and North Cyprus is working very hard to help protect these gentle creatures. SPOT has joined forces with interested and caring groups from a number of British universities to watch the turtles progress and help the baby turtles safely reach the ocean on various beaches in Kyrenia and the Karpas peninsula.

Turtle Watching on Alagadi Beach

If you would like to get a little closer and observe these fascinating turtles, by joining the Society for the Protection of Turtles (SPOT), located in Alagadi on Turtle Beach. During your time with SPOT, you will be able to help the turtles by joining the team on their nightly patrols of the sandy beach and also watch on as the team make surveys night and dawn on the turtle everyday to keep up to date with the latest occurrences. For more information, visit the beach side information centre for a full list of upcoming SPOT activities:

https://www.cyprusturtles.org

Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/cyprusturtles/

Turtle Protection in North Cyprus

The Department of Environmental Protection has recently announced that beach visits taking place between May and October during the hours between 10pm and 8am are prohibited. Also, fires, all lights and speedboats within a mile of the shore are not allowed. If you would like to increase the survival rate of these endangered species, do not throw any type of plastic bags in the sea as the turtles mistake them for jellyfish and choke on the plastic after trying to eat them.

Cyprus Mouflon

The mouflon is the biggest animal of the Cyprus Fauna. Its former scientific name was Ovis orientalis orientalis. However, in recent years following long and in depth studies a new scientific name was given to it, Ovis gmelini ophion.

The Cyprus mouflon is a kind of wild sheep and is found only in Cyprus. Other kinds of mouflon can be found in various Mediterranean countries such as Turkey, Syria, the island of Sardinia etc.

The mouflons are very shy and agile; they move very fast on the steep slopes of forests and are very difficult to approach, especially when they are frightened. The mature male mouflon is a strong, well-built and beautiful animal. It has a thick and plentiful hide which in winter is of a light brown color, with light grey on the back and an elongated black patch round the neck. In summer its hide becomes short and smooth, with a uniform brown color and white underparts.

The male mouflons have heavy horns in the shape of a sickle. The length of the horns of the mature animals is between 55 and 60 centimeters. The weight of the male is around 35 kilos while the female weighs around 25 kilos. Its height is around one meter.

Its seasonal activity pattern is considerably variable. During summer, the animal is active in early morning and late afternoon, whereas in winter is active over the entire day.

During the summer, the mouflons live on high mountains of forests. In winter the mouflons come down to lower pastures in search of food. At times, when there is not enough food in the forest, the mouflons venture to move to the edge of the forest to search for food.

The same can happen during summer when available food is very scarce in the forest. During this season mouflon causes considerable damages to various agricultural crops.

In autumn, during the mating period, the mouflons form herds in groups of 10-20 male and female animals. In spring, however, when the delivery time is approaching, the herds are divided into small groups of two to three animals, or even one in the case of male mouflons which roam about alone.

The female mouflons give birth to either one or rarely two young ones in April or May. The newborns are very lively from the moment they are born so that they can face the many dangers that threaten them.

The History of the Mouflon:

There is enough evidence to prove that in the past, at least in all the mountainous and semi-mountainous regions of the island, mouflons existed in abundance. In excavated mosaics it appears that the mouflon was very well known during the Hellenistic-Roman period.

During the Middle Ages, in the documents of various visitors, the mouflon is also mentioned. The mouflon was generally referred to as ""ram" or "wildsheep" and in several cases it was included in the descriptions of the hunting expeditions organized by the aristocracy of that period. At that time the hunting of the mouflon was carried out with dogs.

Habitat:

The mouflon is an animal that loves the forest. It can be found in small herds consisting mainly of pine trees (Pinus brutia), cedar trees (Cedrus brevifolia), golden oaks (Quercus alnifolia), Strawberry trees (Arbutus andrachne etc).

The mouflon feeds on various kinds of wild growth that flourish in the shady valleys of the forest. In summer, when the wild growth tends to wither, the mouflons wander out of the forest to look for food. It is during this time that the passers-by are able to see the mouflons in forests with low vegetation or in fields that are close to the forests.

Protection management of the mouflon:

In 1878, when the island became a British colony, despite the fact that the number of mouflons had been reduced their number was still quite high. Unfortunately, during the years that followed and due to the appearance of hunting guns it became much easier to kill the mouflons. The increase in the number of hunters and the non-existence of a suitable policy for the protection of the mouflon resulted in the drastic reduction of this animal. Until 1937, the only people who were worried about the decrease in the number of mouflons were the foresters.

In 1938, the hunting law was revised in order to provide a greater protection to the mouflon. Both the Forestry Department and the police were especially seconded for the protection of the mouflon against poaching. Today, their number has increased to a satisfactory level and any danger of their disappearance has been eliminated.

Wild Donkeys

Donkeys living wild and free in North Cyprus are now found in numbers in the Karpas National Park . In this zone any sort of construction and development has been prohibited, but the use of already existing buildings remained allowed. It is this very area which makes a natural habitat for wild donkeys of Cyprus.

Role of donkeys in the past

Donkeys contributed to the life of Karpas villagers in the area enormously in the past. Until the last quarter of the 20 th century, the donkeys were inevitable in agricultural rural life. As it was not easy to own a tractor, the animal power was needed. Because of the limited number of horses on the island which were in addition expensive to get, donkeys took the lead. There were one or two donkeys almost in each household. Served predominantly as a transport power, they used to carry the cargoes of olives during the picking, cereals to flourmills and other farm products. In the past donums of land cost as much as a donkey and large pieces of fields were exchanged for these animals. Demand for donkeys was huge since they were as big and strong as mules. They also served the British army during the WWII. When the Brits started the war with Greece they used donkeys taken from Cyprus together with mule riders who also groomed the donkeys.

History of the Karpas Donkey

All donkeys are probably descended from African wild ass, an animal with a greyish coat and spiky black mane. Donkeys were domesticated in around 4000B.C. to become an important transport animal for man; donkeys can easily carry up to 30% of their own bodyweight. The donkey spread across the ancient world, and was adopted into both religion and everyday life. The Greeks associated the donkey with their god of wine, Dionysius, and in the Bible, God spoke to Baleem through a donkey. In those days, owning a donkey was the equivalent of owning a luxury car today.

If a donkey does not want to do something, he simply won’t do it. This is not so much because they are naturally stubborn, as difficult to frighten into submission. Their dependability is reflected in the fact that they are often partnered in with nervous horses in fields, to calm the horses and keep them company.

Donkeys vs. machines technology

By the 1970s living conditions in Cyprus were changing and so changed the role of donkeys. Machine technology brought the spread of factors into the agricultural field and village life and donkeys of Cyprus were gradually not of that much importance as before. Villagers used trucks and vans for the cargo, and even drove cars to the fields.

Donkeys after 1974

Many donkeys lost their owners after 1974. The donkeys were left to provide food and shelter for themselves. The Karpas Peninsula appeared to be an ideal place for donkeys and thus they were sent there. Later however, on donkeys in the Karpas focused the Turkish press. Why? Throughout the years the donkeys had grown in number. Their struggle for food and survival collided with Turkish villagers who settled in the Karpas and who found their crop often damaged by the donkeys. The solution of the wired fences to keep the donkeys in the specified zone showed however, ineffective as the donkeys jumped over to find food and the damage of crops continued.

Environmentalists and donkey conservation

After the donkeys at Karpas were made a political issue, the Government tried to solve the problem by intending to sell the donkeys to Turkey where they could serve the villagers. But twelve environment-conscious non-government organizations reacted angrily against the decision. The issue was now in the world press. Fortunately it was the environmentalists who prevented the sell-out of Cyprus donkeys and insisted on head count of the animals. It showed that the number of the donkey population was smaller than had been believed. In this way the beautiful eyed donkeys were given the right to continue living in the Karpas. Although the region rich in flora and history continues to entertain tourist with all its charming and popular donkeys.

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