Northern Cyprus is advertised as 'a corner of earth touched by heaven'.

Its climate, food, spectacular beauty, remarkable history, lovely beaches, unique blend of English and Turkish traditions and history all contribute to making Northern Cyprus a magical place. There has been an avoidance of strip development that brings with it huge hotels and this has kept Northern Cyprus beautiful and still quite undeveloped.

The Northern Cyprus Lifestyle

Northern Cyprus enjoys a typical Eastern Mediterranean climate, unspoilt natural beauty, low living costs and next to no crime. The generosity and warmth of the Turkish Cypriot people will never cease to amaze you.

Since 1974 the island has been divided, with the North home to the indigenous Turkish Cypriot population. The local language is Turkish and the currency is the Turkish lira, although many traces of the British remain, as many people speak good English and driving is still on the left-hand side of the road. Hospitality is a way of life in North Cyprus. Holiday here and you will be treated as a long-lost friend.

Cypriot Cuisine

North Cyprus enjoys the same relaxed, informal dining experience as Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot cuisine is delicious. For the Turkish Cypriots, a meal is a social event, so you can relax and take your time over your food, which is sure to be one of the highlights of your holiday.

An evening meal begins with the ‘meze’, lots of small plates of hot and cold starters, which can almost be a meal in themselves. There are more types of kebab than you have ever imagined, made from succulent meat and a huge variety of fish and seafood available, freshly caught that day. To accompany your meal try the excellent local wine, the refreshing lager, Efes, or the national tipple, raki. You should round off your meal with a cup of thick, sweet Turkish coffee and a morsel of the world-famous Turkish Delight.

Places to Visit

Nicosia, or Lefkosa in Turkish, is the capital of both sides of the island, and the last divided city in the world. Make time during your holiday in North Cyprus for a visit, and take the opportunity to stock up on holiday souvenirs in its market - Lefkara lace work, embroidery, hand woven kilim rugs, hand-painted pottery, Mediterranean style village basketry, sheep skins rugs and a host of other wares including leather, gold and silver jewellery.

Outside the main towns, some of the most stunning scenery in the Mediterranean can be found. Holiday highlights will include the rugged beauty of the Karpaz peninsula, where you can drive for miles without passing another car and enjoy its deserted beaches, home and nesting place of the rare loggerhead turtles.