Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A simple greeting of
'kalimera'
(in the South) or
'merhaba'
(in the North) or just a smile may be all that is required
to break the ice and set up a potential portrait scene.
It is not culturally appropriate to take photographs in mosques when people are praying or when a service is in pro-
gress. However, outside of these restrictions, it is usually OK.
RESTRICTIONS
In general, you can photograph anywhere in Cyprus, with the following fairly obvious exceptions:
You cannot normally photograph anywhere near the Green Line. In practice, this is rarely monitored other than on both
sides of the Green Line in Nicosia (Lefkosia), where sensitivities run high. Warning signs, usually a camera with a line
through it, are normally displayed prominently, so heed them.
Military camps are another no-go area, and while there are military installations in both parts of Cyprus, you will be
more aware of them in the North. Do not even get a camera out if you see a warning sign.
Airports, ports and other government installations are normally touchy photo subjects, so you are advised to keep your
camera out of sight near these places too.
Museums do not normally allow you to photograph exhibits unless you have written permission.
Churches with icons do not allow the use of a flash and, depending on the commercial value of the pictures you take,
may not allow photos at all.
OPENING HOURS
The following hours are for high season only and tend to decrease outside that time. They apply to both the North and
South, unless otherwise specified.
Banks
Republic of Cyprus 8.30am-12.30pm Monday-Friday; some also open 3.15-4.45pm Monday. Northern Cyprus
8am-noon and 2-5pm Monday-Friday, 8am-noon Sat & Sun
Entertainment
9pm-3am Thursday-Saturday
Restaurants
11am-2pm and 7.30-11pm daily
Shops
9am-7pm weekdays, closing 2pm Wed, 9am-2pm Sat
Tourist offices
8.30am-2.30pm and 3-6.30pm Monday-Friday, 8.30am-2.30pm Sat & Sun
POST
Postal services on both sides of the island are generally very efficient. Post offices are located in all major towns and vil-
lages. Services are normally only related to selling stamps and some packing materials. Stamps can also be bought at
newsagents and street kiosks. Post boxes are everywhere (in the South, they are yellow, and in the North, red).
If you're sending mail to any address in Northern Cyprus, ensure that you use the suffix 'Mersin 10, Turkey', not
'Northern Cyprus'.
PRACTICALITIES
