North Cyprus
Discover the authentic jewel of the Mediterranean, North Cyprus. The rich and vibrant history of the island of Cyprus, due to its unique geographic location, has been lively and eventful. It’s steeped in Myths and Legends and is truly a country to fire the spirit and imagination.
One of the most exciting and atmospheric destinations to visit in the last few years, this enormously progressive Island has blossomed. One is easily amazed by its picturesque beauty, ruined abbeys, ancient places and south Mediterranean architecture combined with several centuries of history is easy to see why it is a country to fire your imagination as time stands still.
Inspired by its fragrances, colors and textures insure to inspire and sooth the soul. Clearly, vibrant scenery, rich culture and stunning architecture meet. This is where writer Lawrence Durrell found inspiration peace and tranquility during his years in Cyprus where he wrote his classic novel ” Bitter Lemons”. The house in which he resided is still standing and is now a landmark worthy of a site-seeing trip to the breath-taking historic hill-top region of Bellapais Monastery, Kyrenia.
All Year Round Temperatures averaging 24 centigrade. The Summer Sizzles. Higher temperatures during the summer season between June – August typically can rise to highs of 39-40 Celsius. Tourism to The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is steadily on the rise. One is easily amazed by the natural beauty the country has to offer stretching forward along the clear sparkling blue waters of the beautiful Eastern Mediterranean.
The splendor of centuries of history spent has not faded, and you will find some of the most beautiful Mediterranean architecture. It’s unique panoramic views overlook a spectacular backcloth of mountain ranges and Mediterranean coastline glistening on crystal blue shores to harmonize at the meeting point of nature at it’s finest.
Evaluated in terms of Architectural Style of the island the influences of the Latin and the British Colonial Period are clearly seen. The British Colonial Period remained until 1960, both the Colonial Architectural Style and Latin influences remain quite bold.
Reflecting the colorful tradition of Turkish Cypriot living but with all the amenities of modern living, make this Island an irresistible combination. Yet the highlight for most visitors will be the incredible warmth and hospitality of the Turkish Cypriot people.
Touristic attractions like the awe-inspiring Venetian Old Harbor and epic Kyrenia Castle, Bellapais Monastery & Gardens, the crusader castle St. Hilarion, it is said Richard Lionheart spent his honeymoon at this crusader castle, and the famous setting for Walt Disney’s film Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs, stunning fairy-tale scenery set high on a mountain slope west of Kyrenia. Close-by the picturesque village of Karmi, known as the Europe of Kyrenia, and Iconic museums are just a small part of this spell-binding city and hold a majestic feeling of a bygone era.
Whether your marveling at the unspoiled nature and golden beaches, where natural beauty is integrated with historical richness, dream away with uninterrupted coastline views of blue sea and golden beaches, nesting area of caretta caretta, or exceptional architectural and historic examples from the 12th and 15th century, Bellapais Abbey and Gardens, Apostolos Andreas Monastery, Castles of Buffavento, St. Hilarian, and Kantara Castle.
Clear to the eye, this typically glorious tapestry of color bought by Mediterranean Palms, Olive Trees, sweet smelling Lemon and Orange Orchards, natural wild flowers, tucked away secret gardens and local villages overflow to bring light to magnificent natural beauty carving the old adage “pretty as a picture” boldly to mind and heart.
Sports and activities are endless, paragliding in the mountains from the city’s outskirts, view the island from a helicopter or kite-surfing over the beautiful coves, breath-taking beaches, a plethora of water sports includes scuba diving, fishing trips and cruises also hold a much greater appeal. Visit the National Park with wild Donkeys, or peruse the Arts & Culture at the National Life Museums. A superb cafe scene exists to meet many locals and tourists alike.
Quaint shops line the Harbour and high streets with many interesting artifacts for sale, shopping escapades are a must from interesting markets to design boutiques along with frequent pop-up events. For something more low-key try strolling by the sea and capture the hues from sunrise to sunset, since we are in an island where the sun shines all year round you can sit outside the cafes, verandas and walk-ways spilling over with a warm bustling atmosphere and look out over Kyrenia’s charming streets, you can be sure time will fly by.
Traditional Mediterranean Cuisine is considered delicious and increased in popularity primarily known for inventing its signature dish Full Kebab, beginning with small starters of hot and cold Mezes ( vegetarian alternatives ) fresh salads, delicacies of hummus and such-like, followed by Kofte, Lamb and Chicken Shish, Lamb Chops mix are grilled over an open Charcoal. A wide selection of International and local wine is served with the food.
Deserts are varied and delicious with lots of homemade pastries to choose from. You will find some of the best restaurants hosting this healthy Cypriot style Mediterranean kitchen, flavors are the result of decades of experience and tradition. Whatever your preference in food eating out is truly a dining experience, whether authentic Cypriot or International cuisine can be found at a more leisurely pace such as The Professional Golf & Country Club or preferably more casual eateries, bistros and cafes are a constant stream. English is spoken throughout.
An exciting Nightlife; fueled by a diverse but first-rate serious music scene. You’ll find the locals are warm welcoming and happy to mingle before launching into the raki-filled nightlife and superb music scene. For those in search of alternative excitement, casinos, clubs, bars and open-air venues are always a buzz. If your more into the rhythm of dance, Latin dance classes are easily available.
Yet amid all the hubbub and excitement, rest assured, there is still the appeal of classic landmarks, peace and tranquility waiting to be discovered. Take a walk along along the winding streets and slopes of mountain villages where history echoes through the alleyways and walkways spilling over with pink Bougainville.
There are still enough charming, quiet, tucked-away places where you can hear the singsong of birds, nature walks, or sit sipping a drink whilst watching the waves hitting the seashores, to keep everybody happy.
One is easily amazed by the rich tapestry of vibrant color and culture with its warm hospitality, ensures that a holiday in the style of this island will continue to inspire long after returning home and has all you need for an unforgettable holiday.