Language
Greek is the official language of South Cyprus, and Turkish plays the same role in the north, although many northern Cypriots speak Greek, as well. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, with visitors finding little difficulty in making themselves understood.
Currency
In the south, the euro is the official and only acceptable currency and, in the north, the Turkish lira fulfils the purpose along with euros and UK pounds. Banks, ATMs and currency exchange facilities are found in both sectors. In the south, major credit and debit cards are accepted all over the tourist areas excepting the bazaars, although cash is the means of payment in smaller outlets and local eateries.
Time
Cyprus is two hours ahead of GMT, and the Turkish sector of the island operates summer time from April to September, making it three hours ahead of GMT during those months.
Electricity
Electricity in Cyprus comes as 240V/50H as in the UK, with UK-style three-square pin plugs. Almost all non-UK visitors to the island will need plug adaptors, and those whose electrical appliances aren’t dual voltage will require voltage converters.
Communications
The dialing code for Cyprus is +357, with area codes differing in style between the north and south. If dialing from the north to the south, the prefix 0123 is used, and from south to north it’s 0139. Cyta and Prime-Tel are the two cell phone network providers in the south, both using the GSM frequency. Visitors with unlocked GSM phones can use a Cypriot SIM card. Roaming agreements with the north are not yet in place, but coverage in the south is good.
Duty-free
EU national arrivals in Cyprus may bring in 800 cigarettes, 10 liters of sprits, 90 liters of wine, 110 liters of beer and reasonable quantities of gifts and perfume. Those from outside the EU can bring in 200 cigarettes, one liter of spirits, four liters of wine and 16 liters of beer, plus a smaller quantity of gifts and perfume. Duty-free allowances when leaving the country depend on the destination, with US citizens at present able to bring in 200 cigarettes, one liter of alcohol and goods to the value of $400.
Tourist Office
Cyprus Tourism Organization: +357-22-691-100 or www.visitcyprus.com
Consulates in Cyprus
US Embassy: +357-22-780-944 Australian Consulate: +357-22-676-739 Canadian Consulate: +357-22-775-508 UK Embassy: +357-22-861-100
Emergency
Emergency services: 112