Cyprus

Cyprus is the 3rd largest Mediterranean island - covering 9,251 square kilometers, 240 km from West to East and 96 km from North to South - with a population of approximately 750,000. Being at the crossroads of three continents - Europe, Asia and Africa - it has one of the oldest histories of the world, dating back 9000 years. Its strategic position, its wealth in forests and mineral deposits, as well as its skilled craftsmen, made it the prized possession of the powers of the day. Cultural influences came from all directions - all major regional civilizations left their mark on the island, contributing to the development of a very rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Cyprus is an Island of almost infinite variety with superb mountain scenery, forests and fascinating coastlines and beaches, as well as places of great historical and archaeological importance.

A trip into the mountains will provide a refreshing change from the heat of the beaches, with delightfully fresh air, cool nights scented with the aroma of pine trees and wild herbs. Swimming, diving, sailing, cruising, windsurfing, tennis, walking, horse riding and skiing are among the activities to be enjoyed in the island resorts.

And in the evenings - what better than to start by sampling the delights of a Cypriot restaurant. You can choose any kind of cuisine that comes to mind starting with Cyprus & Greek meze with many Indian, Lebanese, Chinese & Russian restaurants available.

Places of interest are plenty, starting with Limassol as the second largest town, the industrial center Nicosia, as the capital of Cyprus & Larnaca with the international airport, and Pafos being the capital of Cyprus in Roman times.

Cyprus has been popular among British retirees for years. Now Russians, Germans and Scandinavians also own holiday homes and live full-time in southern Cyprus. Since 1974, when Turkish forces took control of the northern third of the island, Cyprus has been ethnically divided. Although safe for both residents and visitors, a wire border still exists.

Of course, this is no castaway island-awaiting discovery. Greek Cyprus is package-tour territory, well known among Europe 's mass-market holidaymakers. Most visitors lounge around the south coast resorts, but there's more here than beach-life. The Troodos Mountains form a bulky mass across the island's center, rising almost 6,400 feet in places. .. high enough for snow. As Cyprus is so renowned for winter sunshine, it came as a shock to see snow around Mount Olympus and the villages of Platres and Troodos. It's often deep enough for skiing from December through until March. Cypriots & expatriates alike spend many a weekend skiing on one of the various slopes. There are 4 ski lifts leading to numerous runs, ranging from beginners to advanced, ski school is also available for the novice.

Friendly and very affordable

To say the Cypriots are hospitable is like saying that lemons are yellow. Locals are incredibly friendly. Living costs are two-third less than in comparable southern European hotspots.

Weather- The climate on the island is mild winters and hot dry summers. The average daytime temperature in winter is about 10-13C and 26-29C in summer. Cyprus enjoys 340 sunny days a year, which in summer is an average of 11 hours each day and in the winter months of December and January the average of 6 hours. In winter the Troodos Mountain range provides good skiing conditions.

Travel

The island is served by approximately 30 major airlines, linking it to the four corners of the world through its international airports at Larnaca and Pafos. Larnaca airport generally services the East of Cyprus, & Pafos services the West of Cyprus. Approximate journey times from the airports are as follows: Larnca to Ayia Napa/ Protaras/ Paralimmi- 45 mins, Larnca to Limassol- 45 mins, Larnca to Pafos 90 mins. Pafos to Polis-45 mins, Pafos to Coral Bay-20 mins, Pafos to Limassol-30 mins, Pafos to Ayia Napa -120 mins

Driving

Driving is on the left in Cyprus and distances between towns are relatively short, covered by a good network of modern roads. Car hire is extremely cheap in Cyprus & as driving is on the same side as the UK it is relatively easy to find your way around. You will also notice that all hire cars have red number plates. There are car hire companies on every corner, however, prices can vary from one to the other.

You are allowed to bring your own car into Cyprus as long as you have owned the car for 6 months prior to coming to Cyprus. You can then drive the car for a period of 6 months then you will have to register it with customs & pay the duty & VAT. You need to speak to customs in which ever area you will be living to gain more information. You are not permitted to bring your car into the country unless you have resided in Cyprus for less than 6 months.

Communication

Cyprus telecommunications are among the best in the world, & is said to be the cheapest in Europe. Cytanet is the telecommunications company in Cyprus and can provide you with residential, business & mobile connection. Most expatriates have a mobile phone in Cyprus & they operate on a pay as you go basis called So Easy. Due to the superb telecommunications network, the island is an established offshore business center.

Medicine & Health

Cyprus has first class medical & health care facilities. The main hospital in Nicosia is considered to be of a high standard & there are general hospitals in all towns & also a large number of private clinics. Open-heart surgery is now common practice here. The cost of medical treatment in government hospitals is very low. Those wishing to consult doctors privately will find a wide choice of competent doctors, specialists and surgeons practicing on the island. The minimum charge for a private consultation is approximately £CY7.

Crime rate

Cyprus enjoys a remarkably low crime rate, 1/6 of the European average, another reason for being popular among foreign buyers for whom security has become a key element in the property world. Visitors are invaria

Famagusta

Property in Famagusta

Paralimni,
Cyprus

2 Bed Apartment

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Kyrenia

Property in Kyrenia

Sea & Sun - Kyrenia,
Cyprus

1/2 Bed Apartment

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Larnaca

The area in and around Larnaca is very flat and makes for easy walking. Larnaca has its own international airport and has a scenic sea front marina and harbor.

Property in Larnaca