Practical Information for Mobile Students

The name Cypruscomes from the Greek word for copper (kypros). The island's rich copper deposits first appealed to the foreign powers from the eastern Mediterranean coast. The conflicts among these rival groups played a major role in the turbulent history of Cyprus. The island's Greek heritage dates back to the Achaeans from southern Greece, who settled there between 2000 and 1600 BC. Other early foreign powers that occupied Cyprus included the Egyptians, Assyrians, Romans, Persians, and British. Turkey dominated the island from AD 1571 to 1878. Next came a period of British administration. After World War I (1914–18), Britain gained formal possession of the island. People of both Greek and Turkish heritage live on Cyprus today. Cyprus's Greek community has long desired enosis, political union of Cyprus with Greece, for a long time. This demand has touched off political violence from time to time between Greek and Turkish factions starting with the riots of 1931. In 1959, the two groups agreed to the creation of an independent Cypriot nation with equal representation for both of them. However, political unrest continued through the 1960s. In 1974, the Greek National guard overthrew the government of Archbishop Makarios III (1913–77). The Turkish military then invaded and took over more than one-third of Cyprus. In 1983, the Turkish-controlled sector proclaimed its independence as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. However, it is recognized only by Turkey. The Republic of Cyprus is recognized by the United Nations and other governments, but it controls only the Greek Cypriot areas of the island. Leaders of the two communities have not been able to resolve their problems over the partitioned (divided) island.

 

One of the benefits of being a Mediterranean island is plentiful sunshine throughout the year, and Cyprus is no exception. In fact, Cyprus epitomizes the ideal weather of the region with sunny days and fine temperatures almost every day. Extremes of temperatures are rare, meaning Cyprus has something to offer every month of the year, whether it's swimming (as late as November) or enjoying cultural sites and festivals (all year long). While seasonal fluctuations are not drastic, however, they are different. Here's what to expect: Summer stretches from mid-May to mid-October and means high temperatures, cloudless skies and cooling breezes from the sea. It's the ideal season for swimming, sunbathing and a whole range of water sports from sailing to scuba diving. The days of September and October are still sunny and the water warm enough for comfortable swimming. Toward the end of October evenings do tend to get cooler, however. In October and through November the leaves change color in the Troodos and vineyards take on gold and crimson hues against a backdrop of crystal clear sunlight. December and January are the months of Mediterranean winter, bringing the possibility of rain, but still an average of six hours of bright sunshine a day. The first orchids bloom in January in Cyprus, and by mid-February the countryside is already alive with fresh green meadows and almond trees in bloom. March days can still be cool but steadily moderate. In April and into the middle of May spring is in full force.

 

There are many things to do and see in Cyprus both during the day and at night for people of all ages. There are many historical places and museums to visit all over Cyprus so you can take in the islands natural beauty and Cyprus history. Sailing, tennis, scuba diving, swimming, mountain biking and spas are just some of the activities on offer in Cyprus.

Cyprus has several stunning beaches; you can take a jeep safari into the dazzling Akamas peninsula, a land of mountains, secret valleys and virgin forests where you can swim in the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean from a deserted beach. You can go to the cinema or the theatre and at night there are many pubs, bars and clubs to enjoy, with a lot of venues offering live entertainment. The night life in Cyprus is varied. There is something for everyone, from a relaxing evening drink to the vibrant club scene in Agia Napa.

The opening hours for the shops are:

Saturday: 9:00a.m. – 11:00a.m

 

Hotel Name	Telephone Number	Fax Number
ASTY HOTEL	+357 22 773030	+357 22 773311
EUROPA HOTEL	+357 22 692692	+357 22 664417
AVEROF HOTEL	+357 22 773447, 775071	+357 22 773411
CROWN HOTEL	+357 22 778989	+357 22 783500