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Cyprus
I have lived, worked and travelled for 20 years around Cyprus. I love showing how there is so much more to this enchanting island than simply beaches and sunshine. Join me and explore the lesser known places like a local.
Background
The first thing to understand is that Cyprus is a divided island. The north, TRNC, (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) is governed by Turkey, is Turkish speaking and essentially Muslim. It is served by Ercan airport, near Nicosia. The south is independently governed by the Cypriot government, is greek speaking and European. The south has 2 British army bases and one American airbase. The airports are at Paphos and Larnaca.
Is Cyprus safe to visit?
Like it or not, there are two separate wars happening which will have an impact on this question. Cyprus has welcomed both Russian and Ukrainian nationals and is likely to continue this. The Israeli/Palestine/Iran conflicts are closer to the region. As yet there is no reason for this to stop anyone from visiting or holidaying in Cyprus. Again, there are Jews and Muslims openly visiting Cyprus and there have been no issues up to the date of this blog publishing.
Cyprus
This is the southern part of the island and includes well known destinations, Paphos, Limassol, Polis, Larnaka, Protaras, Agia Napa, Coral Bay - all coastal resorts.
It is served fairly well with intercity bus routes, however with a hire car you can explore the Troodos Mountains and the quaint white villages full of history.
Food and accommodation are typically greek with Airbnb and Booking.com the best sites for finding accommodation. High season is July and August - school holidays and can be searingly hot. April/May and September are in my opinion, the absolutely best times to visit.
TRNC - North Cyprus
The most popular locations are Kyrenia and Famagusta with swathes of new hotels and holiday rentals along the north coast.
It can be cheaper than the south and has its own airport (Ercan). A visa is not necessary for British/European passport holders. Travel is not as easy but if you like a challenge, there are 'dolmus' available which are minibuses. They leave when full, rather than following an exact timetable. Life feels a little slower and more relaxed in the north. Be aware that towns can be called by the Greek, Turkish or English names - no arguing whilst navigating!
Can I cross the border?
There are 9 border crossings in Cyprus, some pedestrian only, others are in the middle of the countryside, so you would only cross by car. It is easy to cross from south to north and back again in a hire car. You will need to purchase additional TRNC insurance which is possible at some of the crossings, but check when they are open. Crossing on foot is easy too, just show your passport.
Larnaca - 2026
St Hilarion Castle - 2023
Language
The language spoken in the south is greek and in the north is turkish
Some common greek phrases are:
Phrase - Yassas - Hello
Phrase - Kali mera - good morning
Phrase - Y faristo - thank you
Some common turkish phrases are:
Phrase - Merhaba - Hello
Phrase - Goon eye dun - good morning
Phrase - Tesicer ederim- thank you
currency
The currency used in the north is Turkish lira, and in the south is euros. Due to massive devaluation of the lira, the Turks are also very happy to take euros.
Weather
The weather ranges from highs of 17 and lows of 4 in winter and highs of 36 degrees and lows of 22 in the summer. The mountain areas and some coastal areas are generally a few degrees cooler and a welcome visit in the blistering heat of the summer.
At a glance
My experience in Cyprus
I came to Cyprus years ago for a family holiday. Little did I know I would come back time and time again. I backpacked for a year during a recession in UK and realised that I did not want to go back to the rat race that I had left behind. So, I came to Cyprus and worked in the hospitality industry enjoying living and working on this friendly island.
I ended up working in the Middle East doing humanitarian work and Cyprus became my base, where I would return for both tranquility and exploring. Helpful locals pointed me in the direction of the Troodos mountains and the sleepy villages hidden away from tourists. With a little spare time and lots of curiosity, visiting the northern side of the island opened up a whole new world.
Along with this experience came many questions about the intriguing history of a tiny island constantly ravaged and occupied through the ages. Once you know a little of the history, it becomes more obvious as you travel around and explains some of the diverse architecture and customs of the island.
The secret to exploring away from the beaches is only really through transport so this is the first decision - car hire or buses
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Cyprus
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