Cyprus is a paradise island of incomparable beauty, full of unique historical treasures. It lies in the clear waters of Eastern Mediterranean, just 40 miles off the coast of Turkey, 60 miles from Syria and 250 miles from Egypt. After Sicily and Sardinia, it is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. North Cyprus provides a most hospitable welcome, with its friendly people, and its beautiful natural attractions, unspoilt, unpolluted and un-crowded. With kilometres of coastline and golden sands bathed in sunshine almost every day of the year. There is much of historical interest to reflect nine thousand years of history. Gothic churches rub shoulders with crusader castles, and ruined temples with British Colonial architecture in a fascinating blend of styles. The all pervading sense of the past adds to the enchantment of the present to make an unforgettable visit.

Here are some actual and up to date daily information;

Climate

North Cyprus enjoys the benefits of the Mediterranean climate with long hot summers, short winters and little rain.

The temperature during the conference is expected to be around 25-26 degrees Celsius and not much rain is expected. You may enjoy some swimming and sunbathing, so we recommend you to bring your swimming suits with you.

Population

The population of North Cyprus is less than 350,000. Here are the populations of major towns: Nicosia: 45,000 (Capital) Kyrenia: 15,000 Famagusta: 13,000 (Not including the 14,000 students of the EMU) Morphou: 6,000 The rest of the population lives in villages.

Language

People of North Cyprus speak Turkish as the native language. But a big majority can speak English also.

Traffic

We drive on the left in Cyprus. There is a considerably light traffic on the main roads. Only during the rush hours you may experience some dense traffic in town centers.

Electricity

The city energy in North Cyprus is of 240W European standard and the plugs are of UK standard with 3 sockets.

Local Transportation

There are hourly and half-hourly minibus services between major towns and 24-hour taxi services are available. There are many car rental companies and you can hire a self-driving car during your stay. Please contact our travel agent for more information.

Currency

Official local currency in North Cyprus is the Turkish Lira (TL). However, every shop accepts Euros, GB Pounds, American Dollars and/or other major currencies. You may pay a shop or a taxi in any international currency and get the change back in Turkish Lira. Here are the current exchange rates for Turkish Lira (TL) 1 € = 2,30 TL 1 $ = 1,80 TL 1 GBP = 2,8 TL Reminder: If you will be travelling to Famagusta via South (Greek) Cyprus, please remember the regulations in the south of Cyprus is a bit different. Most shops or taxis may not accept any foreign currency in Greek Cyprus. They accept Euros, so you may need to exchange some money at the airport on your arrival.

Visa Requirements

Nationals of European Union member countries, Israel, USA and Canada do not need a visa to travel to either North or South of Cyprus. But if you want to make a stopover in Istanbul for a few days before or after the conference you will need a visa for Turkey which can be easily obtained directly from the immigration office in Istanbul Airport. For other nationals please contact us or the nearest Turkish Embassy to you in order to find out if you need a visa for North Cyprus.