Cyprus travel tips
Cypriot locals are generally warm and hospitable to international visitors, despite the hostility between Greek and Turkish factions that inhabit the south and north of the island respectively. Health risks are minimal, the threat of terrorism is low, and little crime is perpetrated against tourists, making Cyprus a safe, relaxing holiday destination that is more affordable than Western Europe.
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Be aware that Cyprus is divided by The Green Line – a UN buffer zone that separates the Greek northern region from the Turkish south. Watch out for the ‘Restricted Area – Photography Forbidden’ signs and be sure to obey them. Also note that there have been occasional political skirmishes along this line.
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Both Greek and Turkish Cypriots are religious, and visitors should show respect for Greek Orthodox and Muslim traditions and customs. These include dress codes – casual wear is generally accepted on the island, but swimsuits should be reserved for the beach or poolside.
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Cypriots consider it impolite to refuse an offer of a cold drink or Greek coffee.
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A 10 to 15 per cent service charge is usually added to bills. If it is not, it is nevertheless customary to tip somewhere in this bracket. Taxi drivers also expect to be tipped.
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Cyprus has some fabulous areas for observing wildlife, the best of which are the mountainous regions and the Akamas Peninsula. Griffon vultures, foxes, bats, sea turtles and moufflon (wild sheep) are endemic to the island.
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Be careful when driving in Cyprus – road conditions are poor and standards of driving are hazardous.
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Be sure to taste some of the local wine, which is superb. The chief winemaking centre on the island is Limassol.
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Exercise caution when addressing the Greek-Turkish division issue on the island. This is an extremely sensitive issue for both sides and one which can easily cause offence.
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If you plan on visiting Northern Cyprus, bear in mind that place names are likely to differ from those given on maps, as most maps do not reflect the Turkish names of places.
Useful travel tips resources
Footprint Guides - Cyprus
Site providing invaluable travel information and advice for a plethora of destinations.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
Iexplore
Travel site with ‘do’s and don’ts’ for a wide range of places.
http://www.iexplore.com/res/d.jhtml?destination=Cyprus&type=Do's%20and%20Don'ts
World Travel Tips
Travel tips for various countries.
http://www.worldtraveltips.net/europe/view.cgi?country=Cyprus
More topics on this site…
Cyprus travel information
Cyprus health and safety
Cyprus maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: Citizens of the USA, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore and the EU can stay in the Republic of Cyprus for up to 90 days without a visa
Season: April – May; September - October
Money: Cyprus pound
Language: Greek and Turkish, with English spoken in most tourist areas
Emergency #: 199