In 2005 the central bank and the government in Turkey knocked off a handful of zeros from their currency and today the currency in both Northern Cyprus and Turkey is the yeni, (new), Turkish lira. Exchange rates fluctuate, but on the whole the currency is now very stable. The yeni/new part of the currency’s name is to be removed in 2009, ending the novelty completely, but we thought we’d keep it for posterity!
The economy in North Cyprus is severely hampered by its continuing isolation and the embargoes placed upon it. It relies heavily on Turkey for economic and monetary support.
Educational standards in Northern Cyprus are relatively good, and there are many local crèches, kindergartens and primary schools. There are also local secondary schools, but these are only located in the main towns such as Kyrenia, Lefkoşa and Famagusta.
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, and Northern Cyprus lies directly 70 km south of the Turkish mainland. Its neighbours include Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Israel and Greece.
On Sunday the 19th of April 2009, around 160,000 voters went to the polls in North Cyprus to elect their chosen government. After nearly 5 years in power, CTP (Republican Turkish Party) were ousted in favour of UBP (National Unity Party).
The last Census to be held in North Cyprus was in 2011, when everyone residing or holidaying in North Cyprus was required to stay at their place of residence so that the population could be counted.
North Cyprus has a fairly up to date communications, media and utilities network, and also has some of the advanced technologies that one would expect with regard to everyday life and its requirements – such as high speed internet and mobile communications for example.
We don’t mean to be pushy but we will say that you cannot come to North Cyprus and not partake of some traditional Turkish Cypriot meze! Meze is the mainstay of traditional cuisine in North Cyprus, and basically means appetisers or starters. More often than not, there is so much of it that depending on your own appetite, you may not require a main course!
