Northern Cyprus
| Flag | |
 | |
| Quick Facts | |
| Capital | Nicosia |
| Government | republic |
| Currency | New Turkish lira (YTL) |
| Area | total: 3,355 sq km |
| Population | 210,047 (2003 est.) |
| Language | Turkish, English |
| Country Calling Code | +90 392 |
| Internet TLD | .nc.tr |
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC, Turkish Kuzey Kıbrıs Türk Cumhuriyeti; [1]) is a self-proclaimed republic on the northern and eastern side of the island of Cyprus. Turkey is currently the only state which recognizes the TRNC.
Cities
Note that Cypriot cities have a variety of historical spellings and writings, all in fairly common use, and which change according to the context, whether it be Greek Cypriot, Turkish or English tourist... The following list emphasises traditional English spellings, that will most often be encountered by the traveller
Other destinations
Understand
The Republic of Cyprus gained its independence from the United Kingdom in 1960. In 1974,a Greek-sponsored attempt to seize the government caused Turkey to respond with a military invasion that resulted in Turkish control of almost 40% of the whole island of Cyprus. In 1983, the Turkish-held area declared itself the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. So far, Turkey is the only country which recognises the TRNC, while all other governments and the United Nations recognise only the Republic of Cyprus over the whole island.
Climate
Temperate; Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool winters
Terrain
Central plain with mountains to north and south; scattered but significant plains along southern coast.
Get in
Citizens of the European Union, the US, Japan or most other industrialized countries get their visa issued free of charge at the border or green line crossing point. Others will need to apply at "representative offices" (the TRNC has no embassies outside Turkey) in London or Washington D.C..
As the TRNC continues to be under international embargo, travellers have precisely two options for reaching the would-be republic: transiting via Turkey, or day-tripping from south Nicosia.
By plane
As the state is not recognised by any international organisation, it's Ercan Airport is not recognised by the IATA, which means that all flights (including charters) must touch down in Turkey before continuing. Scheduled flights on Cyprus Turkish Airlines connect to various destinations in Turkey, as do those on Turkish Airlines. Charter flights are also available with the Turkish carriers Onur Air, Fly Air, Atlas Jet and World Focus Airlines.
As of 2005, it is possible to fly to either of the airports in southern Cyprus (Larnaca is closer) and take a taxi to the north, crossing near Nicosia. It is best to have a travel operator arrange for a taxi from the north to collect you, since some Greek Cypriot taxi drivers may not be willing to take tourists to the north.
By boat
Frequent ferry services operated by Fergün Shipping connect Kyrenia to Alanya and Taşucu in Turkey. There are occasional ferries to other destinations in Turkey as well.
By car
You can enter the North with a rented car from the South at any one of the border crossing points. You will need to purchase insurance for the North at the border, as the companies in the South do not provide cover in the North.
On foot
You can cross by foot at the Ledra Palace crossing point in Nicosia. This crossing point is for pedestrians only, so if you are travelling by car you will need to use one of the other crossing points.
Get around
As in the south of the island, it is best to rent a car and drive around. Car Rental costs are cheaper in the North, starting at around £14 per day in the Winter and rising to £20 in the Summer season.
Talk
The official language of Northern Cyprus is Turkish. English is also widely used, especially in the resort town of Kyrenia.
Buy
Although New Turkish Lira is the official currency in the North, Euros and UK pounds are widely accepted in the bigger cities. Credit cards are also accepted in larger shops and supermarkets.
Eat
Turkish-Cypriot cuisine, fish, kebabs, meze, etc..
Drink
Locally produced Raki (Ouzo), and all internationally imported varieties.
Sleep
Learn
There are a number of Universities in the North. See: http://www.cypnet.com/.ncyprus/people/n-education.htm for full details about the education system.
Work
Cope
Electricity
The electricity is 240v and the UK style 3 rectangular pinned plugs and sockets are used.
Stay safe
Stay healthy
There are many Gymnasiums situated in in the main cities such as Nicosia, Famagusta and Kyrenia
Respect
It is illegal to sully the name of Kemal Ataturk.
Contact