About North Cypern
North Cyprus is a paradise filled with unforgettable beaches, crystal clear Mediterranean Sea and a rich cultural heritage. It’s the perfect destination for anyone seeking sun, relaxation and adventure in a unique and incredibly beautiful place.
North Cyprus has something for everyone, whether you’re a beach lover, an adventurer or a culture enthusiast. Explore the ancient ruins of the island, savor the local cuisine with its flavorful dishes or dive into the crystal clear waters and discover the amazing underwater world.
With sunshine all year round and a warm and welcoming local population, North Cyprus is the perfect place to relax and enjoy life.
Geography
North Cyprus covers a total area of 3,355 km2 and it is about 36% of the entire island with over half of the island’s 648 km (324 km) of coastline. North Cyprus is divided into five regions; Nicosia in the center of the island, Kyrenia in the north, Famagusta in the east, Güzelyurt in the west and Iskele in the northeast.
Cyprus was divided into two separate states since 1974. Greek Cypriots live in the south of the island and Turkish Cypriots in the north. A border known as the Green Line runs through the island separating the two states.
Beaches, plains and mountains
North Cyprus is characterized by a unique blend of beaches, plains and mountains. The long northern coast is supported by the Beşparmak mountain range (Five Finger), which forms an astounding backdrop with its forested slopes and magnificent limestone peaks, the highest being Mount Selvili at 3357 ft. The lower hills and lowlands are alive with lush greenery, rare species of birds and butterflies, and a natural diversity of flowers that are unmatched in the Mediterranean, with estimated 19 endemic plant species.
Sandy beaches and rocky coves await the discovery along the coast. East of the island, the Five Finger loses the mountain range as it stretches along the narrow peninsula, known as Karpaz or “Panhandle”, a spectacular finger-shaped region of rolling hills and pristine golden beaches. South of the Five Finger mountain range lies the plain of Mesaoria and the capital Lefkoşa (Nicosia).
Climate
North Cyprus has a very pleasant climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, and an average of 340 days of sunshine. In August, the hottest month with average temperatures from 30 ° C to 36 ° C and in the coldest months, January and February is the average temperature about 10 ° C to 15 ° C, with a winter mean of 6 hours daily sunshine and only moderate rain, which make it an ideal destination all year round..
The annual average sea temperature is around 22 °C, with a high of 27-28 °C during August, and a low of 17 °C during winter.
Wild animals and plants
Northern Cyprus is still relatively undiscovered so that wildlife flourishes, with about 250 bird species landing on the island each year in their journey from east to west. There is also an abundance of lizards, wild donkeys and butterflies, including 19 endemic species, that is, unique to the region, such as the oddly shaped Cleopatra butterflies adorned with the sun’s colors. All of these are part of a rich natural heritage on an island of contrasts extending from the top of Mount Selvili 3000 meters to the tranquil slopes of the sea water, where the famous turtles land to lay their eggs.
The warm climate of northern Cyprus also means that you can enjoy beautiful flowers all year round, making it a true botanical sanctuary. In the autumn and winter, golden oleanders float the hills, while multicolored anemones and crocuses occur before Christmas. But it is in late winter and spring that the island blooms into a festival of colors with orchid and cherry poppies.
Turkish Cypriot cuisine
Turkish Cypriot cuisine is a delicious fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, reflecting the island’s rich cultural heritage. It features a variety of fresh and flavorful ingredients, including olive oil, herbs, spices, vegetables, and meats.
One of the most popular dishes in Turkish Cypriot cuisine is “kleftiko,” a slow-cooked lamb or goat dish that is tender and flavorful. Another classic dish is “stifado,” a meat stew made with onions, red wine, and cinnamon.
Seafood is also a staple of Turkish Cypriot cuisine, with fresh fish and octopus often grilled or baked with herbs and spices. Vegetarians will also find plenty of options, with dishes like “dolma,” stuffed grape leaves filled with rice, herbs, and vegetables.
Meze, a selection of small dishes, is a beloved part of Turkish Cypriot cuisine and is often served as a starter or shared among friends. Meze dishes can include hummus, tzatziki, stuffed mushrooms, meatballs, and grilled halloumi cheese.
Desserts are also an important part of Turkish Cypriot cuisine, with sweet pastries like “baklava” and “kataifi” filled with nuts and soaked in syrup. “Turkish delight,” a soft and sweet candy made with gelatin and sugar, is also a popular treat.
Overall, Turkish Cypriot cuisine is a feast for the senses, with a variety of flavors and textures that reflect the island’s unique cultural blend.
Healthcare
The healthcare system in North Cyprus is modern and efficient, with a range of public and private hospitals, clinics and medical centers. The Ministry of Health in North Cyprus oversees the public healthcare system, which is funded through taxation and provides free or low-cost medical care to all citizens and residents.
The private healthcare sector in North Cyprus is also well-developed, with many facilities offering high-quality medical care and services. The cost of private healthcare is generally more expensive than public healthcare, but many expats and tourists opt for private healthcare due to the shorter waiting times and more personalized care.
Medical professionals in North Cyprus are highly trained and qualified, with many doctors and specialists having received their education and training abroad. The official language of North Cyprus is Turkish, but many medical professionals also speak English, and language barriers are usually not a problem.
It is advisable for visitors to North Cyprus to take out comprehensive travel insurance before traveling, as this will ensure that they have access to high-quality medical care if needed. Overall, the healthcare system in North Cyprus is of a good standard, with modern facilities and highly trained professionals, providing peace of mind for visitors and residents alike.
Facts about North Cyprus
Official name: Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
State: independent state, republic with democratically elected president and government.
Capital: Nicosia (Lefkosa)
Area (total): 3,355 km2
Coastline: 324 km
Population in large cities:
Nicosia (Lefkosa) 62,000
Kyrenia (Girne) 55 000
Famagusta (Gazimagusa)45 000
Morfou (Güzelyurt) 27 000
Trikomo (Iskele) 19 000
Population, total: 327 000
Language: Turkish (official language), English as a second language
Currency: Turkish Lira / British Pound
Traffic: left hand traffic as in England
