| Country Overview |
| Cyprus gained its independence from the U.K. in 1960. Cyprus is truly an "island for all seasons". With over 300 days of sunlight annually, four distinct seasons and a mild climate, it is an ideal year-round destination. Cyprus is so close to Europe, Asia and Africa that it rightly, claims to be a stepping stone to three continents. The third largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus is a paradise for nature lovers. |
| Capital & Cities |
| Capital city is Nicosia. Major cities are Limassol and Larnaca. |
| EU Membership |
| On May 1, 2004, Cyprus became a full member of the European Union (EU). |
| Population / People |
| Population 780,133 i.e. 7.8 million (July 2005 est.). Today, Cypriot retains a multi-cultural heritage combining Greek, Turkish and British influences in a modern European society. |
| Economy |
| Economy dominated by the service sector, which accounts for 78% of GDP. Tourism, financial services, and real estate are the most important sectors. |
| Tourist country |
| Every year, over 2.5 million tourists choose Cyprus as their vacation destination and many Europeans invest in second homes on the beautiful beaches and mountains of Cyprus. |
| Language |
| Official languages are Greek and Turkish, but English is widely spoken. Over 90 per cent of the Cypriot population speaks English. |
| Currency |
| The original currency was Cyprus Pound (CYP) approximately CYP 1 = Rs. 90 but the currency has been changed to the Euro (EUR) on 1st January 2008. |
| Climate |
| Average temperature 30°C to 32°C. Cyprus has dry Summer & Cool Winter, typical Mediterranean climate. |
| Religion |
| Greek Orthodox Christian 78%, Muslim 18%, Maronite, Armenian Apostolic, and other 4% |
| Per Capita Income |
| Cyprus is classified among the high-income countries, with a per capita income of Euro 16192 (Rs.9,65000) in 2004. It holds 16th place worldwide in terms of per capita income |
| Beaches |
| Cyprus is surrounded by beautiful sandy beaches |
| Electricity |
| Electrical current is 240 volts, 50Hz. The UK-style three square-pin plugs are used |
| Emergency |
| Emergencies: 199 or 112. |
| General Info …. |
- The shops are closed on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons.
- Avoid shorts and wear suitable clothing when you are visiting churches and Monasteries.
- Easter is the main religious feast in Cyprus.
- Do not forget your sunglasses while in Cyprus.
- A small tip in restaurants, taxis etc. is always welcome.
- Parakalo means: please.
- Kalimera means: Good morning.
- Metrios: is the local coffee with sugar.
- Efharisto: means thank you.
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