About Cyprus - General Information

Cyprus is an island in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, at the cross-roads of Europe, Asia and Africa, and has one of the oldest histories of the world, dating back as far as 9000 years. The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia, also the largest city in Cyprus. Cyprus is divided into 6 administrative districts: Famagusta, Kyrenia, Larnaca. Limassol, Nicosia and Pafos. A buffer zone occupied by the United Nations Forces separates the divided island into a northern, Turkish Cypriot sector and a southern, Greek Cypriot sector.

Location

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, situated in the eastern Mediterranean. Cyprus is commonly included in the Middle East. 75 km to the north you find Turkey, with Syria and Lebanon to the east, Israel to the southeast, Egypt to the South and Greece to the West-North-West.
Politically and culturally however Cyprus is closely aligned with Europe and is a member of European Union.

Economy

Cyprus economy is growing at the satisfactory rate underpinned by long-term macroeconomic stability. The Grows Domestic Product in 2005 reached 13.6 billion euros and the projected growth for 2006 is 4 per centum.
Cyprus per capita income is one of the highest in the region.
The country enjoys full employment conditions, with the current unemployment rate standing at 3.8 per centum while inflation stands at 2 per centum.
Being as prosperous as it is, the Cypriot economy has diversified in recent years. Cyprus has been sought as a basis for several offshore businesses, due to its highly developed infrastructure.
Having discovered oil in the sea South of Cyprus talks have been ongoing with Egypt to reach agreement between the two countries as to the exploitation of these resources.
All countries joining the European Union need to eventually adopt the euro currency and the Cyprus government intends to adopt the currency on 1 January 2008.

Climate and Temperature

With 340 days of sunshine, there's really not much more to say! Cyprus is in the Mediterranean climate zone, and so benefits from short mild winters and long dry & warm summers. The island is famed for its sunshine and its long swimming season. If you're looking for sunshine and all year round warmth, Cyprus is the place to be.
During the winter and spring months, occasional low pressure systems travel down the Mediterranean from the west. These bring welcome rainfall - and even snowfall to the higher peaks - welcoming adventurous skiers and encouraging the 1900+ flowering plants on the island to flourish.
In the Trodos Mountains, the temperature regularly falls below freezing near the mountaintops, and it is cold enough for snow to fall between December and March. Winter sports can be enjoyed on Mount Olympus - the highest peak in Cyprus - the best time for skiing being in February. In fact, Cyprus is one of only a few places in the world where you can go skiing in the morning, and then an hour later be lying on the beach topping up your sun tan!
· On average, the warmest month is July.
· On average, the coolest month is February.
The maximum average precipitation occurs in December

Hospitality

Cypriot hospitality is legendary. Affected from a mixture of nations, Cypriots are open and welcoming to all. More than just a friendly smile, Cypriots have a warm and loving nature that really impresses upon visitors every time they come to Cyprus, no matter what their race or creed. In shops, taverns, cafes and bars the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.
Cyprus people will always make you feel at home and they will do their utmost to help you no matter what the situation.

Government

Cyprus is an Independent Democratic Republic. The President of the Republic is the head of state. He is elected for a five-year term. The Council of Ministers is appointed by the President and constitutes the executive organ of the Republic.
The legislative power is held by the House of Representatives whose members are elected for a five-year period.
Cyprus is a member of the United Nations, and its agencies, the Council of Europe and the Commonwealth. As of May 1st 2004, Cyprus will also be a full EU member state.

Language

Greek and Turkish are the official languages, although English is widely spoken throughout Cyprus.