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Cyprus Weather:
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Maximum day temperature
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22 |
26 |
30 |
32 |
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31 |
27 |
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18 |
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Minimum night temperature
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Average daily sunshine
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Average
rain days |
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Sea
temperature
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Live weather:

The Flag:

Capital: NICOSIA
Government: REPUBLIC
Currency: GREEK CYPRIOT POUND(CYP)
Area: 9,250 sq km (3,355 of which is Turkish occupied)
Population: 770,000
Language: GREEK/ENGLISH
Religion: GREEK ORTHODOX 78%, Muslim 18%, OTHER 4%
Electricity: 240v/50Hz (UK three pin plug)
Phone Calling Code: +357
Time Zone: UTC +2
Official Holidays in Cyprus
Jan 1 - New Year's Day
Jan 6 - Epiphany
Mar 14 Green Monday
Mar 25 - Greek Independence Day
Apr 1 - Greek Cypriot National Day
Apr 29 - Greek Orthodox Good Friday May 1 - Greek Orthodox Easter Sunday; Labour Day
Jun 20 - Pentecost (Kataklysmos)
Aug 15 - Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Oct 1 - Cyprus Independence Day
Oct 28 - Ochi Day (Greek National Day)
Dec 24-26 - Christmas
USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS
First Aid 112
Fire 112
Forest Fire 1407
Police 112
Phone Directory 192
Electricity 26932395
Water 26932374
Telephone 161
Electricity 188
SEASONS
One of the benefits of being a Mediterranean island is plentiful sunshine throughout the year,
and Cyprus is no exception. In fact, Cyprus epitomizes the ideal weather of the region with
sunny days and fine temperatures almost every day. Extremes of temperatures are rare, meaning
Cyprus has something to offer every month of the year, whether it's swimming (as late as
November) or enjoying cultural sites and festivals (all year long). While seasonal fluctuations
are not drastic, however, they are different. Here's what to expect:
Summer: When It Sizzles
For just
about Summer stretches from mid-May to mid-October and means high temperatures, cloudless skies
and cooling breezes from the sea. It's the ideal season for swimming, sunbathing and a whole
range of watersports from sailing to scuba diving. At this time of year, explore the
archaeological sites early in the morning or in late afternoon, avoiding the hottest part of the
day. It's always a good idea to bring along sun protection, such as sunscreen and a
broad-brimmed hat. Even in the height of summer when it's 32C(90F) degrees at the beach (and
warmer inland), temperatures are refreshingly cooler in the Troodos, making the mountains ideal
for hiking or simply relaxing.
The days of September and October are still sunny and the water warm enough for comfortable
swimming. Basically, it's still summer. In Lemesos, the first ten days of September bring the
annual Wine Festival, a buoyant period not to be missed.
Autumn Forecast: Warm and Sunny
Toward the end of
October evenings do tend to get cooler, however. In October and through November the leaves
change color in the Troodos and vineyards take on gold and crimson hues against a backdrop of
crystal clear sunlight. In Cyprus even mid-November can feel like summer, but by month's end
medium-weight apparel for the late afternoons and evenings will enhance the traveller's
experience. It is still possible to enjoy swimming, while inland excursions to villages and
vineyards for wine tastings can be very enjoyable. Fall also brings with it the annual Kypria
festival, with prestigious local and international musical and dramatic performances at venues
throughout Cyprus.
Winter: An Active Season
December and January
are the months of Mediterranean winter, bringing the possibility of rain, but still an average
of six hours of bright sunshine a day. This is the time of year when smaller Mediterranean
destinations shut down for the season, but not so Cyprus. The island is a major business centre
and has many important heritage sites and museums, all at their least crowded in winter. The
cultural calendar is also alive and well throughout the winter, with new events coming all the
time. The summer resort of Agia Napa, for example, offers a "Cultural Winter" with classical
music concerts and modern and folkloric dance performances. Into early February there is
occasional rain, and often snow in the Troodos - ideal for skiing!
Spring Delights
The first orchids bloom
in January in Cyprus, and by mid-February the countryside is already alive with fresh green
meadows and almond trees in bloom. March days can still be cool (daytime temperatures around 19C
or 65F, 9C or 40F at night) but steadily moderate. Early spring is a wonderful time to visit to
Cyprus, with pleasant daytime temperatures and many of the ancient ruins framed by a carpet of
red anemones and other wildflowers.
In April and into the middle of May spring is in full force. This is an ideal time for nature
hikes and off-road adventures in the pristine Akamas Peninsula. Cyprus has 1,950 species of
flowering plants, 140 of which grow nowhere else but on the island, and in the Akamas alone,
there are 700 plant species, of which 40 are endemic. From February to April, pink cyclamen
sprouts up from rocky foothills and thickets and forms a riveting adornment to the Baths of
Aphrodite. From March to April, the pink wavy-leaved monkey orchid (Orchis italica) grows in
dense patches around Pafos. If in summer Cyprus is the place to bask in the sun, then spring is
the time to savor the natural beauty of the island in bloom.
A BRIEF HISTORY
For the visitor to understand and fully appreciate the island's many historical sites a short
introduction to 9,000 years of habitant is very beneficial.
The early settlers most probably came from the nearby Mediterranean countries clearly visible
from Cyprus' shores.
The Early and Middle Bronze Ages (2300-1600 BC) saw the first real towns and commercial centers
developing going through expansion and trade.
The next stage in development was The Iron Age.
The dawn of the classical period saw an attempt by the islanders to throw off the Persian Rule,
with the result that large areas in rebellion were defeated and only parts of the island were
freed.
After Persian Rule came the Hellenistic Period.
The first Governor from Rome was Marcus Portius Catto who had the task of implementing the
annexation of the island. He arrived in 58 BC and began almost four hundred years of the Roman
Period.
The split with the Roman Empire brought Cyprus under Byzantine Rule with the capital city being
Constantinople, and the eastern empire ruled from Alexandria. Guy de Lusignan bought the island
and began a period of 300 year of French Rule.
Venetian Rule followed. However, all their efforts eventually proved in vain, when after almost
eighty years, in which building work had been the main project, the Ottomans landed at Larnaca
in 1570. The Ottomans invaded, led by Lala Mustafa Pasa, and put Nicosia under siege. The period
of Ottoman Rule began.
At the beginning of 19th century it was discovered there was works in secret with the connivance
of the Orthodox Archbishop of Cyprus to drive all Turks out of Greece The British, worried that
the Russians would pose a threat to the Suez Canal, were quite happy to accept the offer of
governorship proposed by the Ottomans. In 1878 an agreement was reached and Cyprus came under
British Control and occupancy. Enosis, union with Greece, which would have taken place had
Greece accepted the British offer in 1915; now became an issue of paramount importance to the
local people.
EOKA was against continuing British rule, independence was granted to Cyprus in 1959.
In 1974 Turkish armed forces landed on the island and took over 40% of Cyprus. The country
remains divided despite efforts at reunification.
POTTED PAPHOS HISTORY
Greek Pafos, town, south-western Republic of Cyprus. Paphos was also the name of two ancient
cities that were the precursors of the modern town. The older ancient city (Greek: Palaipaphos)
was located at modern Pirgos (Kouklia). New Paphos, which had superseded Old Paphos by Roman
times, was 10 miles (16 km) farther west. New Paphos and Ktima together form modern Paphos.
Paphos has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. It was a centre of the cult of Aphrodite
and of pre-Hellenic fertility deities. Aphrodite's legendary birthplace was on this island,
where her temple was erected by the Myceneans in the 12th century B.C. The remains of villas,
palaces, theatres, fortresses and tombs mean that the site is of exceptional architectural and
historic value.The amazing mosaic floors are considered among the finest in the Eastern
Mediterranean. They mostly depict scenes from Greek mythology and are beautifully completed.
The town of Paphos is included in the official UNESCO list of cultural and natural treasures of
the world's heritage. From the modern town centre to the picturesque harbour and, stretching
across the coastline, lie innumerable ancient sites which not surprisingly have now been
included in UNESCO's list of World Cultural Heritage sites. After all, this is the birthplace
and centre of worship of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty and the whole area retains
some of this magic. The Odeon theatre is also in this region, a stone structure still used as it
was in ancient times for outdoor concerts, games, and plays. Small wonder then that the whole
town of Paphos is included in the official UNESCO list of cultural and natural treasures of
world heritage.
Archaeological discoveries in the Paphos region are continual, making it a highlight for those
tracing civilizations roots in Cyprus. For a glimpse of the artefacts and masterworks found in
the area, visit the District Archeological Museum.
North of Pafos is the little town of Polis. It overlooks the beautiful Chrysochou Bay, with its
charming fishing village of Latsi where the seaside tavernas serve delicious fresh fish dishes.
Nearby you can find the well known Baths of Aphrodite, with their breathtaking view over the
bay.
Shopping in Cyprus is a delight, whether you want that memorable rustic souvenir, or take
advantage of certain local bargains such as contact lenses, frames and other optical items.
There are many stylish clothes shops selling the latest fashions. Bordered by a lovely
coastline, the Paphos area has charming villages in its
mountains, here life has gone unchanged over the years, where the customs and traditions of the
country have been kept alive because that is how it has always been. And in the heartland, are
famous monasteries such as Ayios Neophytos and Chrysoroyiatissa with modern day pilgrims.
HEALTH CARE
Hospitals
Health facilities are generally of a high-quality standard. The latest technology and operating
techniques are standard, with heart bypass surgery and kidney transplantation now routine in
hospitals. The emergency departments of all hospitals are manned with English-speaking
personnel, although it is advisable to seek the assistance of an interpreter for more complex
medical matters. Emergency medical treatment, administered in the Accident and Emergency
department, is free to international tourists. International travellers are, however, advised to
take out full medical insurance before departure. No health agreement exists with the UK.
Phisicians, Clinics and Health Centres
Cyprus has a very high standard of medical services. Hospitals, private clinics and medical
centers are equipped with the latest facilities.
For non-emergency cases there are many good doctors' surgeries, clinics and health centers in
Cyprus, several with English speaking doctors or translators.
Dentists
Dentists, and dental specialists, are available everywhere and their fees are quite low compared
to European standards. Low cost international private medical insurance is available for
non-Cypriot people living in Cyprus. Dentists are of a high standard and dental surgeries are
well equipped with the latest facilities.
Pharmacies
Most pharmaceutical products in Cyprus can be bought directly over the counter. There are
various pharmacies on the island and many stay open late and some even 24hrs. Non prescription
medicines are easily available and reasonably priced
BORDER CHECKPOINTS
As a peace measure to aid the unification of the Greek and Turkish Cypriots it was agreed
that various crossing should be opened along what is known as the Green Line. The Green line is
what serves as the current partition of Cyprus separating the Island into North and South
Cyprus.
At present there are 5 active checkpoints that can be used for crossing the Green Line in
Cyprus. There are plans to open more but after the opening of the last crossing, Zohdia efforts
to open new checkpoints have slowed considerably.
These are the existing active Green Line Crossing Checkpoints in Cyprus:
Nicosia (Lefkosa, Lefkosia)
Agios Dometios
This checkpoint serves as a crossing for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and goods. The
checkpoint is located in Nicosia and as you can see Nicosia also goes by two other names.
Another common names for this checkpoint is Metehan which is normally used by the Turkish
Cypriot community. This is the flagship of the checkpoints due to the number of people who make
the crossing through it on a daily basis.
Ledra Palace
Another name for this crossing is the Ledra Palas crossing. On a daily basis this crossing is
used as crossing point for cyclists and pedestrians. The only vehicles that are allowed to cross
at this crossing point are diplomatic vehicles.
British Eastern Sovereign Base Area
Black Knight
This crossing point is also known as Azios Nikolaos, Strovilia, or Akyar. It is one of the two
crossing points that lies within the British Eastern Sovereign Base Area. This checkpoint is
used for the crossing of vehicles, pedestrians, and goods.
Pergamos
This crossing point may also be known as Beyarmudu, or Dhekelia, and is one of the two crossing
points that lie inside the British Eastern Sovereign Base Area. This checkpoint is used for the
crossing of vehicles, pedestrians, and goods
Güzelyurt (Too many to list check below)
Zohdia
As stated above Güzelyurt is known by many names. All these names are also used as names for the
Zohdia crossing. So the Zodhia crossing point is also known as, Astromeritis, Güzelyurt, Morfou,
Morfu, Morpho, or Omorfo. Of the current active check points this was the last to be opened to
the public. This is an area that lies to the west of Nicosia and aided in establishing
checkpoints in all regions of the island, mainly East, West, and Centre. The Zohdia crossing
point is used for the crossing of vehicles, pedestrians, and goods.
Checkpoint Names
Many if not all of the checkpoints along the Green Line in Cyprus have more then one name. In
general it is taken for granted that on this island everything will have three names. So the
crossings are generally known by all three names, one for each language, English, Greek, and
Turkish.
Added to that the checkpoint can also take on the name of the region or neighbouring villages.
Nowhere, has this been clearer than at the Zohdia checkpoint in Güzelyurt
GETTING MARRIED?
Cyprus as a perfect
wedding destination
Is there a better place for wedding than the island where the goddess of love and beauty,
Aphrodite, was made out of the foam?
Cyprus has got everything to make your wedding unique and unforgettable. With over 300 days of
sunshine per year, the weather for your wedding day is certainly something you do not need to
worry about Sunshine, picturesque scenery of lush vegetation, and the beauty of the island on
the whole make truly favorable conditions for getting married in Cyprus.
After you have chosen Cyprus as your final wedding destination along with deciding on your
location, you should be aware of arrangements to follow.
To reach the island quickly and securely the best way is to take a flight. There is a variety of
airlines flying to Cyprus to choose from. For most of the flights, Larnaca international airport
is conveniently reached, along with Paphos airport, and Ercan airport in Northern Cyprus. From
all the airports there is an option to hire a car to your final wedding destination.
Foreigner's wedding in Cyprus
For the foreigners all wedding ceremonies in Cyprus are conducted in English, as Cyprus Law
is based on the English system, and so are the wedding certificates. It is possible to get
married in all districts of Cyprus.
Documents required
As a first step, the couple has to fill in, sign and submit a joint application called Notice
of Marriage indicating their will marry each other. This application of marriage is made to the
Marriage Officer at the local Town Hall and you will need the following legal documents all in
original format:
-Valid passport
-Birth Certificates for both the Bride and Groom
-Affidavit or Certificate signed by a notary public indicating your marital status i.e.
divorced, widowed or single and that you are free to marry. This document must be dated, signed
and stamped. Legal documents are only valid for 6 months so make sure that it is dated to be in
this time period by the time the wedding is due to take place. For Scottish residents a
certificate of No Impediment is acceptable - this is available from your local registrar.
-Death Certificate (in case of widow or widower)
-Decree Absolute (in case of divorce)
-Adoption Certificate (in case of adoption)
-Deed pole certificate (in case of a change of name)
-If under the age of 18 a letter of consent from parents or guardian which must be stamped by a
lawyer.
This paperwork applies for British passport holders - all other nationalities need to contact
and check their government agencies for details of required paperwork and all the official
documents must be translated into English, certified, stamped and signed by a notary or a
lawyer. The couples have to be aware of paperwork that varies for each region and type of
wedding. Couples from abroad wishing for Anglican or Roman Catholic weddings will require
further documentation and permissions.
certificate of Thalassaemia (produced from the state or private doctor, required for Cypriots
only)
The couple must arrive in Cyprus at least 5 working days before the set date for the wedding as
the original papers must be presented to the Town Hall.
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