Ambulance call: 112
Medical insurance
Since North Cyprus is not an EU member, medical insurance covering the whole Europe is in fact inapplicable here. Although visitors to Northern Cyprus do not require any medical treatments prior to entry, the health insurance should be arranged before traveling, especially when you are planning to spend holidays in the TRNC your insurance is a necessity. Accident and emergency facilities are available at local hospitals.
Pharmacies
In North Cyprus pharmacies sell the majority of prescription drugs over the counter but if you need a course of antibiotics for not a serious illness, you can simply prescribe for yourself and buy the medicament from the pharmacy instead of visiting a doctor. Furthermore many of the pharmacists, provided they speak English willingly advise you which drug to take depending on the state of your condition.
Dental and eye treatment
Most dentists follow the government scale of fees, but the charges should be requested prior to treatment. Dental treatment in the TRNC is of high standard and comparing to the UK, prices are much lower. Professional eye tests are available in all towns of the TRNC. Although contact lenses are of reasonable price, there is a wide range of designer, quality spectacles which are much cheaper than in the UK.
Precautions
- Do not drink the water coming from the taps as it may be mixed with harmful particles. Bottled water is widely available.
- Most stomachaches are caused by a mixture of too much sun, alcohol and a change in the diet. Imodium quickly disposes of the problem.
- Jellyfish are not that common as sea urchins. If you are unlucky to tread on it, a sterilized sewing needle, scalpel and olive oil are effective aids for removing spines. Wear a pair of swim goggles and footwear for walking over rocks to avoid them.
- To prevent a nasty reaction to mosquito and sand fly bites try rubbing anti-histamine cream on the affected part.
- A good sun block lotion and a hat should be used to avoid the danger of sunstroke and direct sunlight on the head should be avoided. Take plenty of non-alcoholic drinks throughout the day.
- Snake bites are rare but should the worst happen, cover the bite with a cloth. Apply a tourniquet above the bite if it is on a limb but not so tight as to cut the blood supply off. Seek medical attention immediately.
There are three airlines which have scheduled flights to Northern Cyprus. These airlines provide regular flights to Ercan (the North Cyprus Airport) from UK, Turkey and Germany. For information about time tables, prices and reservations, please contact KKTC, Onar Air and Turkish Airways.
For information on all flights in and out of Ercan Airport please contact (0090 392) 231 4806.
There are regular flights from the three London airports: Stansted, Gatwick and Heathrow, plus flights from other major UK cities including Manchester, Glasgow and Belfast. Most of them arrive in the evening or early morning with more than 80 flights arriving at the North Cyprus airport of Ercan every week during the summer season.
As there are currently no direct flights between Europe and the TRNC (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) all planes must first touch down in Turkey before proceeding to the TRNC, stopping at either Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, Antalya and Adana.
The citizens of Turkey, United Kingdom, USA, Canada, Mexico, Malta, Japan, Switzerland, Norway, Israel, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Australia and New Zealand do not require a visa to enter Northern Cyprus. All other nationals should check their status with regard to visas with the nearest Embassy or Office of Representative for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Visitors who do not wish to have their passports stamped by the authorities on arrival in North Cyprus may request a stamped visa form which is loosely inserted into the passport and removed on departure.
Importing of pets
Pets can be brought into the North Cyprus from Europe with few problems. The Ministry of Agriculture requires a certificate from a European vet stating that your animal is free of major diseases.
Quarantine should be no longer than 4 weeks but will depend on the species and country of origin of the animal. All quarantine costs must be met and are the responsibility of the owner.
Please contact the Northern Cyprus Ministry of Agriculture for more information on bringing animals to the TRNC and for preliminary permission.
Chief Vetinery Officer Mr Ersan Korudag
Phone: 0090 392 225 3751
Fax: 0090 392 225 3536
In Northern Cyprus there is a huge selection of hotels ranging from basic cheap Cyprus hotels to 5 star luxury! There are luxury North Cyprus hotels and holiday resorts and also tourist class hotels. They all offer different facilities such as swimming pools, shops and on site restaurants.
Neighbourhood
The neighbourhood of your hotel defines what you can do (activities, recreation, shopping, business, etc.) without the aid of public transport or a car. In reality Northern Cyprus hotels reside in 4 different neighbourhoods. These are the, Town centre, Beach, Mountain, and Road Side neighbourhoods. Each of these types has their own charms and attract tourist for different reasons.
Town Centre
For those more interested in shopping and seeing the town whether it is for business or pleasure there are hotels that are located close to and around the city centre. These hotels are located near one of the most popular touristic destinations in Kyrenia, the Kyrenia harbour. Here you will find many restaurants that allow you to partake in the culinary delights of Turkish Cypriot and international cuisine. While shops can be found everywhere the town centre is the centre for touristic shopping.
As of late shops have started venturing out into other areas and are moving farther away from the city centre. Still if you are looking from some traditional North Cyprus gifts or souvenirs then most of these shops can be found in and around the city centres. Having your hotel near by enables you to walk or take some form of public transport to said shops.
These hotels can be useful to those visiting Northern Cyprus for business. In truth no destination on the island is far away, yet what is within walking distance can facilitate your stay while here. If you plan on visiting the country to engage in bureaucratic affairs then a hotel in the Nicosia town centre or around it would be better suited for you. As stated staying in another city is always an option although you would need some form of transportation.
Beach
These hotels are right on the beach if not in close proximity of beaches. These are the types of hotels that let you wake up to that much dreamed about Mediterranean sunrise. Once you realize that what you have seen is not a dream you may walk down to the shore to enjoy the white sands and crystal clear waters. Most shops and places of interest will need some sort of transportation in order to be reached. If you are a beach person and are coming to Northern Cyprus for the beaches then look no further such a hotel is just for you. Most of the big 5 star hotels and new hotels being constructed are beach hotels.
Mountain
The mountain hotels are for nature enthusiasts. Although not exclusively for nature enthusiasts the environment will be most enjoyed by them. If you are one of these people then a hotel located in the mountains or the hills is just for you. From these hotels you will have a spectacular view of the Northern Cyprus Northern coast. Transportation from and to these places is a bit complicated and you will probably need your own car. If you do not mind trekking, then walking to the main road to catch public transport may be for you. However, please be advised that doing so under the summer heat or in any season may not be the best of options. These hotels also provide cooler evenings in those hot summer months. This allows you the option of enjoying a nice sunny day at the beach and then returning to the mountains to enjoy the cool evening breeze.
Road Side
The roadside hotels are quite interesting in that they offer better access to public transportation. These hotels normally have their restaurants and reception areas in the front while the guest rooms are in the back further away from the main roads. When one thinks of road side hotels you generally think that they are very noisy due to the passing traffic. This is not the case and since their rooms are in the back little or no traffic noise is heard. Contributing to this lack of noise is the fact that there are few or no trucks that use these roads. Also fog horns are not used by the passing vehicles. These hotels also have better accessibility and are close to public transport routes.
Airport Transportation
Some of the larger hotels have there own airport shuttle. This bus takes people from the Northern Cyprus airport of Ercan to the hotel. To check if the airport shuttle service is available at your hotel please contact the information area of that hotel. Using such a service is less costly then travelling by taxi. As of late a new service has become available when travelling from the airport to your hotel. While taxies can be costly and catching the bus may be impractical at times. The regular transport bus (not hotel affiliated) goes from airport to terminal and back, leaving you with the task of finding alternate means of transportation from the terminal to your hotel. Taxies as stated can be the most comfortable yet they are the most costly. But as of late a new service has arisen. These are taxies that are minivans. These minivans can take more then one passenger going to different destinations. As a result you all share the fare. These vehicles are quite new and they are pretty spacious.
The pastime of many has dramatically improved over the recent years with a huge selection of worldwide franchises coming to North Cyprus. The variety of goods appearing on the shelves of Northern Cyprus shops and supermarkets has now made it easier for everyone to find the goods they require. As time moves forward together with the possible settlement on the island we are welcoming a wide array of companies to our high streets.
Erdal Jewellers
Designer jewellery at high street prices!! This is one store that is a must on your visit to Northern Cyprus. With a huge selection of gold (yellow and white) and silver in a separate store you will definitely find that little something special. All major credit cards welcome.
Akay Optik
This is a Northern Cyprus spectacle and sunglasses specialist offering a huge selection of designer glasses and frames at discounted prices. Prescription spectacles supplied at a fraction of the cost.
Dizayn'74 Pottery
Located just on the outskirts of Girne lies this working pottery studio where all wares are hand crafted and decorated on site. These make great gifts and personal momentos of Northern Cyprus.
Tempos Supermarket
The closest you will get to an English supermarket in North Cyprus with a huge assortment of European foods! From baked beans to shortbread biscuits to Imperial leather soap - you find it all here.
Bayramoglu
As shoe shops go in North Cyprus this one has it all. Bayramoglu has friendly and efficient English speaking staff offering a good collection of original designs.
Benetton
Yes the designer gear is here! Keeping up with the tradition of bright colours this popular high street store gives you quality clothing at North Cyprus prices.
No Fear
The popular sports clothing outlet also has an outlet here in Northern Cyprus. So No Fear the latest patterns are here!
Little Angels
As the name suggests this is the North Cyprus store for the little people in your life. These are quality fabrics that give you a first rate selection for the younger ones.
Deniz Plaza - Stationery
Set over three floors this Northern Cyprus store is packed with everything from toys in the basement to stationery/computer supplies on the ground floor to a huge collection of international best sellers and paperbacks on the top floor.
Wednesday Market
For those visiting the North Cyprus for the first time a trip to the Wednesday market is essential to watch the ancient art of bartering in full force. This Northern Cyprus market has expanded of late from mainly fruit and vegetable stalls to become a more comprehensive supplier of all goods.
All the ferries arriving and departing from North Cyprus are directed towards the south shores of neighbouring Turkey. Scheduled ferryboats travel from Kyrenia and Famagusta to Turkey's ports of Mersin, Alanya and Tasucu. Three routes exist on which sea buses (passenger ferries), together with car ferries operate: Kyrenia - Alanya, Kyrenia - Tasucu and Famagusta - Mersin. Car ferryboats run much slower than passenger ferries. Some travel agencies also provide ferry trips from Tasucu harbour to Kyrenia harbour and back. The boat trip takes about 2 hours and comprises sightseeing tour as well as accommodation in hotel in Kyrenia.
For further information and reservations contact:
There are many restaurants in North Cyprus offering a wealth of culinary choice. There are many establishments serving French, Chinese, Indian and European cuisine. Most local restaurants have very high quality Cypriot food and a warm welcoming atmosphere.
Over the years the culinary offerings in Northern Cyprus have grown as has the demand for their services. Their services were required not only by the residents of the island but also by the growing number of tourists that visit the island each year. The first restaurants on the island were more local in nature and offered Cypriot dishes such as kebabs and mezes. The most famous of these restaurants are located in the harbour area. Many a person has enjoyed a candlelight dinner while gazing at the warm light illuminated Kyrenia castle. Between the breath taking scenery and the scrumptious cuisine it is hard to tell which casts the stronger spell on you.
But as the diversity of Northern Cyprus has grown so has the different offerings of its culinary world. Some of the first restaurants that dealt in foreign dishes were of eastern origin. These places normally offered Chinese and Indian cuisine. Along with these restaurants we also saw the various Italian restaurants which offered traditional Italian cuisine.
Later on as the international community on the island grew there was a push towards more family oriented restaurants. These are the types of restaurants that are in a category that is located somewhere in between fast food restaurants and the full fledged restaurants. Similar restaurants in this class include TGI Fridays and Outback Stake House among others. These are the types of restaurants that offer mid range prices for various diverse foods. There service is normally fast and many also offer delivery and take out services which make them a popular choice for business workers who eat in or have luncheons with colleagues.
North Cyprus has a wide array of beaches to cater for all tastes, whether it's fun-packed or quiet and tranquil that you are looking for.
West of Kyrenia
Escape
Situated just 7km west of Kyrenia this famous beach is where the Turkish army landed on 20th July 1974 during the Turkish Peace Keeping operation that would later lead to the creation of Northern Cyprus. Things have changed a little since then and you can now enjoy such activities as scuba diving, jet skiing and banana boats, plus there is an interesting variety of food from the in house restaurant and an open air disco which continues on into the early hours for the young at heart! Entrance fee is 4 which includes the use of all facilities.
Kervansary
Closer to Kyrenia and slightly smaller in size, Kervansary beach has fantastic views along the Kyrenia coastline and boasts some of the most amazing summer sunsets you will see anywhere in the Mediterranean. Add to this a beach bar serving food & drinks, plus lots of fun activities, and you have a beach that is ideal for every member of the family. The entrance to this Northern Cyprus charm is free, although there is a small charge for beds and umbrellas.
Camelot
This well maintained beach club is very picturesque and offers you a delightful place to relax in the North Cyprus sun. There is a beach bar & restaurant plus live music in the club, throughout the evening, until the early hours. Entrance fee is 3 which includes use of all facilities
Mare Monte Hotel and Deniz-Kizi Hotel
Both hotels have delightful and secluded sandy beaches offering good amenities. All non-residents of North Cyprus are welcome for a small fee.
East of Kyrenia
Diana
A small, quiet beach with basic but adequate facilities situated 2km along the Esentepe coastal road just 10 minutes drive from Kyrenia centre. There is a small beach bar/restaurant serving good food and cold drinks. As with most beaches in Northern Cyprus entrance is free, although there is a small charge for beds and umbrellas.
Lara
A small, quiet beach with basic but adequate facilities situated 2km along the Esentepe coastal road just 10 minutes drive from Kyrenia centre. There is a small beach bar/restaurant serving good food and cold drinks. As with most beaches in Northern Cyprus entrance is free, although there is a small charge for beds and umbrellas.
Turtle beach
This beach is protected by the government for the conservation and protection of turtles. Turtle beach really is an unspoiled piece of this Northern Cyprus paradise. On most days, even in the height of summer, you will share these beautiful sandy coves, which stretch as far as the eye can see, with very few people. There is a small beach bar which serves food and drink, but there are no beds or umbrellas, or anything else for that matter, which means the beach has remained untouched to this day. Entrance to this beach is free of charge.
Acapulco Hotel
There is a long sandy beach at the Acapulco Hotel with lots of facilities and fun activities. There is also a huge swimming pool (the biggest in the whole of Northern Cyprus) with water slides ideal fun for the whole family. Entrance is 4 which includes use of all amenities.
