Travel info
Updated 19th June 2001
Because of the close links between Britain and Cyprus, you'll find many similarities between the standards and services in Ayia Napa. From driving on the left, to using 240 volts power sources for your stereo, or even buying tea bags, you'll find all the comforts of home.
Passports/Visas:
British passport holders won't need a visa, but the only acceptable form of ID for British holidaymakers is your passport.
Ports of entry:
Larnaca Airport is 46km from Ayia Napa.
Larnaca, and Paphos Airports, and the ports of Larnaca, Limassol and Paphos are the only legal ports of entry. The northern half of the island is under Turkish occupation. Flight time from London is about 4 hours.
Health:
If you are arriving from a country infected by smallpox, you'll need to prove you've been vaccinated.
Currency:
The Cyprus pound is divided into 100 cents. One english pound is worth about 94 cents.
Banking:
Banks are open from Mon-Fri, 08.30-12.30.
Some offer an exchange service in the afternoons, during high season. Major credit cards are accepted in most places. Travellers' cheques can be cashed at any bank.
Weather:
Hot! Hot! Hot!
Prepare for subtropical temperatures of over 40C in July/August.
Power source:
The same as in Britain, 240 volts a.c. 50Hz.
Sockets are usually 13 amp, square pin, and able to take just one appliance.
Communications:
Card and coin -operated phone kiosks can be found in major streets.
Cards worth £3/£5/£10 can be bought from banks/post offices. Most cafes and bars will let you use their phones for local calls. Mobile phones registered to the GSM network can be used in Cyprus.
Driving License:
International driving licenses are valid, and visitors may also use their national driving license for the class of vehicle they wish to drive. Mopeds and bicycles are available for hire. Motor insurance must be bought locally.
As in the UK, cars drive on the left hand side of the road. The speed limit on normal roads is 80k (50mph), and on motorways 100k (60mph).
Water:
Although local water is quite safe, bottled water is cheap, and easily available. Fresh water in Cyprus is precious, so don't waste it, and be ready for occasional cuts in supply.
Useful Telephone Numbers
Country Code: 00 357
Town Dialing codes:
Ayia Napa 03
Paralimni-Protaras 03
Nicosia 02
Larnaca 04
Paphos 06
Limassol 05
Emergency Services:
Fire, Ambulance, Police 199
Ayia Napa Police Station 721553
Paralimni Police Station 803030
General Hospitals:
Paralimni 821211
Larnaca 630300
Airports:
Larnaca 643000
Paphos 422833
Cyprus Tourism Organisation:
Ayia Napa 721796
Nicosia (main office) 443374
Pharmacies:
For all-night pharmacies, ring up 1403
