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ResidenceCyprus in a Nutshell
GeographyWith an area of 9,251 sq km, Cyprus is the third largest island of the Mediterranean. It is located in the Eastern part of the Mediterranean basin with Turkey 113 km to the North and Syria 120 km to the West. The island is split into 4 parts: the Republic of Cyprus (in the South), the unrecognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the UN-controlled buffer zone between them, and UK sovereign base areas. The nature of Cyprus is rich and varied ranging from cool cedar forests in the mountains to golden sunny beaches of the coastline. The island features two almost parallel mountain ranges: the Kyrenia in the North and the Troodos in the South. Cyprus' highest point is at the summit of Mount Olympus (1,951m). ClimateCyprus has more than 300 sunny days a year, and its climate is considered very salubrious. The summer is hot and lasts from mid-May to mid-October. The temperature can reach 35oС in shade, but seems temperate due to low humidity. The mean air temperature in October is +27oС, water temperature is +22oС. HistoryThe first traces of human civilization found in Cyprus date back to the early 7th century BC. Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, at the intersection of the trade routes that connected Europe, Asia and Africa, Cyprus has always been a point of attraction for the leading powers of the region. At different times, the island was dominated by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, Venetians, Turks, and the British. However, culturally, Cyprus remains closer to the Greeks that became the first to bring civilization to the island. CuisineThe Cypriots are faithful to their traditions, including the art of cookery. The cuisine of Cyprus is delicious, varied and rich. It provides a wide choice of dishes for gourmets, gourmands, and vegetarians. Cypriot dishes include fresh game and fish garnished with plentiful of vegetables and dressed with local herbs and olive oil, which makes them both delicious and healthy. The cuisine of Cyprus is shaped by Mediterranean and Eastern traditions and is also somewhat influenced by the English cookery. ShoppingShops in Cyprus are open Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 7 pm with a break from 1 pm to 4 pm. From October to April, after the break, shops are open from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm. On Wednesday and Saturday, shops close at 1 pm. Souvenir shops at coastal resorts stay open until late. Additional information CurrencyThe currency of Cyprus is a Cypriot pound that is divided into 100 cents. The currently circulating coins are 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents. Exchange rate: 1 CYP / 1 $: 2,55 Banks are open Monday to Saturday from 08:15 am to 12:30 pm. For tourist needs, some of them extend the workday. The business hours of such banks are shown at the entrance. The local shops and restaurants accept credit cards of major payment systems (Visa, American Express, Diners club and Master Card). CustomsEach passenger can take to Cyprus 200 cigarettes or corresponding amount of cigars and tobacco, 1 liter of beverages with more than 22% of alcohol per volume or 2 liters of fortified wine or other beverages with less than 22% of alcohol plus 2 liters of other wine. One can also have a bottle of perfume or a small volume of toilet water. ElectricityElectrical current is 220 volts. The UK-style three square-pin plugs are used. DirectoryPhone numbers to remember (international access code for Cyprus +357)
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Area - 9 251 sq km