Northern Cyprus enjoys a typical Eastern Mediterranean climate with long hot summers and short mild winters. The northern coastline, which borders the Girne (Kyrenia) mountain range, is accepted as one of the most beautiful areas in the world in which to live also host to the Green Turtles. The natural beauty of the island, the lovely climate, the warmth and generosity of the Turkish Cypriot peoples and the abundant selection of fresh foods make Northern Cyprus an unspoilt and non-commercialised haven. There is virtually no crime to speak of, and this country is reminiscent of UK standards long lost, where hospitality, politeness and the general enjoyment of life are the daily norm.

Geography
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus comprises an area of 3,355 square miles and encompasses the northern part of the island, which is the third largest in the Mediterranean. About 45% of the area is arable land, 20% of which is irrigated. Nearly 20% of North Cyprus total area is wooded and there are extensive re-forestation programs in progress. It is situated at the cross-roads of east-west and north-south navigational routes, is only 70 kilometres south of Turkey and 385 kilometres north of Egypt. Owing to the location of Northern Cyprus and its proximity to the rich Middle Eastern countries, it provides an ideal place for foreign investment.

Climate
The climate of North Cyprus is typically Mediterranean with long dry summers and short, rainy winters. The average annual temperature is 19ºC (66ºF). The temperature in midsummer can soar over 40ºC (105ºF) with the warmest sea temperature in the Mediterranean, averaging 21ºC (75ºF) . The winter weather is very mild and there is an average annual rainfall of 500 mm.

Emergency Telephone Numbers

• Fire 199
• Police 155
• First Aid 112

Major Towns
The capital of TRNC is Lefkosa (Nicosia), which has a population of approximately 35,000, where the main administration and business centers are. Other major towns include : Gazi Magusa (Famagusta) which is a flourishing tourist, industrial and commercial center, as well as being the country's principle port, Girne (Kyrenia) a town of touristic importance with a wonderful harbour. Town maps can be obtained from the Tourism offices at all main towns.

Language
Turkish is the official language and English is widely used and understood in official and commercial circles. There are several first-class Turkish language teachers available, and some British residents avail themselves of their services.

Time
Local time is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Household items and Services
Most household items can be bought in North Cyprus at about the same price as Europe. Most international makes and models are available (Whirlpool, Kelvinator, Candy, Philips, Pioneer, Panasonic, Siemens, Arthur Martin, Bosch, Tefal, Beko, Sony etc) Auctions are also held monthly where a vast array of items can be purchased at reasonable prices.

Running costs
Living costs in the TRNC are much cheaper than the UK and most of Europe. There is no rates system at present, or community tax. The main costs are electricity which costs 106.045 Turkish Lira per KW which is the equivalent of 4 pence per KW. (approx. £ 15 monthly per house), water costs 5,500,000 Turkish Lira + %13 VAT for 0-20 Tons of water per month which is the equivalent of £2 for 0-20 tons of water per month and an annual council tax is less than £ 40 (£2.90 per month which includes waste collection, pavement and road cleaning, etc.). Central heating is rare in N Cyprus but is usually run on gas or oil. Most cookers are run on gas canisters (1 gas canister costs approx. £6 and lasts as long as 2/3 months) and/or electricity.

Mains Services
Mains power 220/240 volts AC. (British Standard 3 pin plugs are used)
Water by mains supply and in some properties supplemented by wells.
International telephone system plus facsimile and internet.