Facts on Cyprus

About Cyprus
Cyprus, once rich in copper deposits derived its name from the Latin word "Cuprum" meaning copper. Situated in the North Eastern basin of the Mediterranean Sea it was and still is a link between Europe, Asia and Africa. Measuring 9,251 sq. km Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean and is a popular financial and tourist centre. The major towns are: Nicosia, which is situated roughly in the centre of the island, is the capital, the seat of Government and main business centre. Limassol in the South is the main commercial port. Larnaca in the Southeast has the main airport and the second commercial port, and Paphos in the Southwest has the second airport. The population of Cyprus is estimated to be 800.000 of which approximately 77% are Greek Cypriots, 18% Turkish Cypriots and 5% being British. Armenian, Maronites and others.

European Union Cyprus has now been invited to become a full member of the EU in 2004. Thereafter EU citizens will no longer require work permits and will be able to purchase property freely. However it has been proposed that candidate countries, wishing to, may limit the acquisition of agricultural land and secondary residences by other EU nationals for a period of 7 and 5 years respectively after their accession, with a review, regarding shortening the period or lifting the restriction, after 3 years. It is anticipated that after accession the demand for and price of property in Cyprus will increase sharply.

Health No vaccination is required when entering the island there being no infectious diseases. Medical treatment is very cheap in the Government hospitals but there are a number of private clinics for those who prefer them. Private Medical Insurance is also available.

Language Greek and Turkish are the official languages and Greek the local language. However English is very widely spoken and legal documents can be drawn up in English if required.

Legal System The legal system is based on the British system.

Pets Prior to the pet's arrival an import permit from the Cyprus Veterinary Services must be obtained. There is a quarantine period of six months but the pet may be confined at home for this period if certain criteria are met prior to importation. Certain breeds of dog may not be brought into Cyprus. More information can be obtained from the Veterinary Services. (Tel: 00 357 22 805240/1, Fax: 00 357 22 332803)

Recreation The crystal clear Mediterranean Sea, lovely beaches and beautiful scenery make Cyprus an idyllic holiday and retirement location. The sports enthusiast can enjoy any of a number of water and winter sports and for golfers there are two international standard golf clubs in the Paphos/Limassol area and another four are programmed for Larnaca, Limassol, Paphos and Paralimni. Associations and societies include Lions, Rotary, Round Table, Toastmasters International, the Armenian Centre, the British Council, French Cultural Centre and the Goethe Institute. Festivals, fairs and many other cultural activities take place throughout the year and are usually publicised in the newspapers.

Standard and Cost of Living Compared to many other countries, in Europe, Cyprus enjoys a high standard but low cost of living.

Sightseeing Cyprus is steeped in antiquity and is rich in legendary, archaeological, religious and historical sites, some of which have been date back 9000 years. The exquisite Mosaic Floors of 3rd Century noblemen's villas in Kato Paphos were declared by UNESCO a World Cultural Heritage site There are too many sites for us to mention them all here and we suggest that upon arrival one visits the Cyprus Tourist Organisation offices where pamphlets and maps are available.