Cyprus
LANGUAGE
Greek is the official language. English is widely spoken. A greater knowledge of German and French is increasing noticeable.
CURRENCY
The currency of the Republic of Cyprus is the Euro which is divided into 100 cents.
BANKS
Banks in Cyprus open for the public from 08:30 to 12:30 midday. Certain banks in tourist area open in the afternoon too.
ELECTRICITY
The voltage on the island is 240. Socket outlets are of flat 3 pin-type.
We suggest to bring along and international adaptor.
PHARMACIES AND MEDICINES
All types’ medication are plenty available all over Cyprus.
TELEPHONE
Cyprus telephone dialing system reach 206 countries. Telecard can be purchased from post office, kiosks and souvenir shops. Cell phone works regularly though the international roaming.
NOT ALLOWED
It is strictly forbidden to remove antiquities from the bottom of the sea, or to take any antiquities out of Cyprus without a special export license.
RELIGION
Official religion is the Christian Orthodox..
Visitors should respect ecclesiastical tradition and avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless garments in churches and monasteries.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
January 1, 6, March 25, April 1,May 1,
August 15, October 1, 28, December 24, 25, 26.
There are another four public holiday whose dates are variable: Green Monday (50 days before the Greek-Orthodox Easter), Good Friday and Easter Monday (Greek-Orthodox Easter), Pentecost.
CRUISES
Cruises to Egypt and Holy Land can be taken on one of the many comfortable cruise ships which offer full board accommodation and entertainment at very reasonable prices.
SHOPPING HOURS
May to September
08:00 - 13:00, 16:00 - 19:00
October to April
08:00 - 13:00/14:30 - 17:30
Shops are closed all day Sunday and on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons.
CLIMATE
It is equable, with an abundance of sunny days throughout the year.
Long summers and short and mild winters.
TEMPERATURES AND WEARING
The average daytime temperature from June to September is 32 degrees *C, from December to February 16 degrees *C and from March to May , and October to November, 25 *C.
Very cool, cotton clothes are recommended for the hot summer. Jacket and light sweaters maybe required for the evenings during May and June, September and October, and warm clothes are worn during the winter months.
DRIVING
Driving is on the left hand side of the road.
DISTANCES
Larnaca - Aya Napa 35 km
Larnaca - Limassol 50 km
Larnaca - Pafos 130 km
Larnaca –Troodos 90 km
TAXI
The Tran urban service-taxis are shared-taxis connecting all main towns (during daytime) and are very reasonably priced.
CAR RENTAL
There are many car rentals in Cyprus, and the top international names are represented. Petrol stations in all seaside areas and major towns are equipped with automatic pumps, accepting bank notes and credit cards, and operating on a 24H basis. On Sundays and bank holidays, petrol station in rural areas may be open.
Minimum age to hire a car is 23 and maximum 75. A credit card is always required as deposit guarantee.
BUSES
Public transportation connects major towns on schedule.
