Cyprus is a beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea that can be a great destination for any time of the year. Its sandy beaches, beautiful landscapes, and rich history will leave you amazed. However, if you are planning to travel there anytime soon, there are some things you should know.
Cyprus is Divided into Two Parts
Cyprus is in a unique situation that you should take into consideration when planning your trip there. The country is divided into two parts, with Southern Cyprus being controlled by Greek Cypriots and Northern Cyprus being controlled by Turkish Cypriots. However, traveling between two parts of the country is possible, although Southern Cyprus is more popular with tourists. Additionally, you are required to leave the island from the part you arrived at.
U.S. Citizens Don’t Need Visa to Visit Cyprus
Cyprus is part of the European Union. This means that U.S. citizens don’t need a visa to visit the country. You need a passport that is valid for at least three more months and can stay up to 90 days for tourist purposes.
Everyone Drives on the Left
Cyprus was once under British rule and kept some of the customs and regulations from that time. This includes driving on the left side of the road, which is an important thing to keep in mind if you are renting a car. Also, keep in mind that roads in Cyprus are not in the best condition.
Following Local Etiquette and Customs is Appreciated
While Cyprus is an open and welcoming country, people here pay great attention to tradition, etiquette, and customs. If you are visiting places of worship like mosques or churches, it is important to be appropriately dressed. Additionally, drinking in public and loud and reckless behavior is frowned upon.
Weather Can Be Unpredictable
Cyprus has a lot of sunny days. However, the weather can often get unpredictable, with the sun giving away room to strong winds and rain showers. Make sure to account for this and pack a few warmer pieces of clothes alongside all the swimsuits.