| The coastline of Northern Cyprus offers some of the finest
and safest bathing in the Mediterranean. Although most holiday establishments have modern
pools, the crystal clear waters of the eastern Mediterranean are wonderful for swimming,
snorkelling, sailing and skiing.
Most of the holiday complexes are situated near
the picturesque ancient port of Girne on the north coast, or Gazimagosa in the east. The
narrow fertile northern coastal strip is backed by the spectacular Besparmak mountains -
also known as the Girne range, studded with its medieval castles and fortresses. The
rugged slopes are covered with Aleppo pines, olives and carob trees, with small villages
nestling in the hillsides. Nearer the coast, most activity is concentrated along the coast
road. A legacy from the British colonial days means that traffic flows on the left lane
and since most hotels can assist in car hire, travelling around is no problem.
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| Climate |
The unique climate of Cyprus offers year-round
opportunities for a perfect holiday. Rainfall is concentrated in December and January,and
the average sea temperature is above 20 ºC for more than half the year. Cyprus is
renowned for its wild flowers which carpet the island in spring (there are more than 38
species of orchid alone) and scent of orange, lemon and grapefruit blossom fills the air. |
| Inland |
Inland, behind the rocky Girne range and the
imposing Five Finger Mountain, stretches the huge fertile Mesaoria plain, Ercan airport
and the island`s capital, Lefkosa. Along the east coast lies the ancient fortified city of
Gazimagosa and the nearby ruins of Salamis. To the north east, the landscape becomes more
broken and open fields give way to small pastures enclosed by stone walls and interspersed
with olive trees and rocky outcrops. |
| Culture |
The exotic cuisine of Cyprus reflects its history
and maritime associations. Turkish Cypriot cuisine is a fascinating blend of East and
West. Breakfast consists of luscious fruits, especially locally grown melons, various
local breads with cheese or jams and a selection of eggs and local sausage. Traditionally,
home-made yoghurt is served with delicious local honey and if you want coffee, then
remember to ask for "Nescafe" - the local term for western coffee with
milk."Kahve" means Turkish coffee: thimblefuls of that wonderfully powerful brew
that is a speciality of the Near East. Evening meals being with a sumptuous
"meze" - hors d`oeuvres consisting of as a many as 20 small dishes -before the
main course. Raki, aniseed spirit diluted with water is the traditional local
accompaniment, but wine and beer are also readily available with excellent value and
quality. Turkish Cankaya white wine is particularly recommended. |
| Accomodation |
Information on touristic sites and accommodation
facilities to be found in ensuing sections are organized under three district regions:
Girne, the area of northern coast between the sea and Besparmak mountains, where the
majority of holiday complexes are found; Gazimagosa, the ancient port with its long open
beaches; and finally, Lefkosa and Guzelyurt: the capital city and the western coast famous
for its citrus groves. Flights arrive at Ercan airport from which most hotels have
transport services. |
| Tukish Cypriots |
The Turkish Cypriot people are renowned for their
generous hospitality. During shopping or enjoyining a meal, you are made to feel
particularly welcome. |
| Beaches |
The beaches here are a blend of rock pools and
sheltered sandy bays. |
|
North Cyprus
