Introduction to Northern Cyprus
- Jouni
- Mar 18
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 20
If you are not yet familiar with Northern Cyprus (officially The Turkish Republic of North Cyprus, TRNC), let me give you an introduction to this naturally beautiful country.
North Cyprus is the northern part of the Cyprus Island, located in the Mediterranean Sea just around 75 kilometers (45 miles) away from Turkish south coast. The 9251 km2 (3572 sq mi) Cyprus Island is divided into two different countries, the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus, having the only divided capitol city in the world - Nicosia (named Lefkoşa in the north).
Shortly about history
Cyprus has been an important and desired island over the millennia, for strategic and political reasons, and its charm is no less today. Fortunately now it is due to the pleasures of more than 300 days of sunshine, a rich cuisine, the Mediterranean Sea, stunning mountain scenery and unspoilt nature.
The name Cyprus probably derives from copper, a relatively abundant mineral on the island, on which Cyprus' wealth was based in ancient times - literally one might say, Cyprus is a copper island.
Northern Cyprus
After the end of the British occupation in the mid-20th century, a few decades of internal conflict began, culminating in the declaration of the northern part of the island as an independent state of North Cyprus in 1983, covering about a third of the island's territory. The island as a whole has a British heritage of left-hand traffic, and especially in Northern Cyprus the currency used in the housing market is the pound sterling, which has brought stability to the market.
The natives' identity is primarily Cypriot, with the local culture being a mix of Cypriot, Turkish and a touch of other surrounding cultures - after all, Cyprus has been a crossroads and trading point to virtually every direction for millennia.
Northern Cyprus can be considered perhaps the last authentic destination in the Mediterranean that has not been spoilt by mass tourism and its excesses. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the way of life is still genuinely authentic. In the mornings you can hear the crowing of roosters and it is not uncommon to see sheeps and shepherds. Nature is always close at hand, with lush green mountains, turquoise seas and many sandy beaches that are very close to their natural state.
The popularity of Northern Cyprus has grown in recent years which has improved services and new investment across a wide range of sectors - including the new international Ercan Airport, new hotels, the expansion of the Korineum golf course, and the modernisation of the port of Kyrenia.
Fun, culture and relaxation
Northern Cyprus offers a wide range of activities. For the nature lover, hiking in the rugged mountain scenery is an experience in itself, or cycling to admire the seascapes. And of course, being by the sea, it's possible to enjoy various water sports such as surfing, scuba diving or peaceful paddle boarding while the turquoise Mediterranean Sea glides around you.
The beautiful Korineum Golf & Beach Club attracts both golf and tennis enthusiasts, but also anyone who just wants to enjoy lunch with good food and stunning views. Padel courts can already be found in several residential developments.
Children's favourites are, of course, the pools and water parks, but also boat trips from the port of Kyrenia, for example, where you can take a dip in the warm Mediterranean Sea. And from personal experience, we can recommend a trip to the Karpaz Peninsula to see the "wild" donkeys, and at the same time experience the Golden Beach, the most beautiful and longest natural beach in Cyprus, with its stunning sand dunes.
You can also go horse riding, on a ATV or jeep safari, sailing, bowling, play tennis / paddle tennis or yoga, to name but a few.
Cyprus is full of history and attractions. Ancient fortresses, old towns, buildings and harbours date back thousands of years.
Music is a key part of Cypriot identity. Live music is available every week, in concert halls and restaurants alike. During the summer season, open-air clubs gather dancers to enjoy a warm evening and rhythmic beats. For classical music lovers, the Bellapais Monastery hosts festivals, being a great venue for classical music both for its acoustics and its ambience. And let's not forget jazz music, with the annual Gilham Winery Jazz Festival.
A wide range of festivals are held throughout the year. The Orange and Olive Festivals, for example, are linked to the harvest season, while the Culture and Arts Festival showcases Cyprus' rich cultural heritage.
One might say that you are always a relaxed in Northern Cyprus. The people are friendly and genuine, nature is always close , and the pristine beaches invite you to spend the whole day enjoying the crystal clear turquoise Mediterranean Sea.
But of course, you may also relax in one of the many hamam spas, where a variety of treatments and massage services are available. The spa and pool areas of luxury Casino Hotels are open for day visitors. Or for your peace of mind you can participate in yoga and meditation.
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Some key points about Northern Cyprus:
Lots of untouched nature and beaches
Possibly the Mediterranean sunniest country with up to 315 sunny days in a year
The cleanest waters in Europe
One of the safest countries in Europe
People are friendly and welcoming
Only less than 400 000 inhabitants
Excellent international healthcare, quality hospitals
Several international universities
Property prices are lower than in other Mediterranean countries
Rapidly growing economy
Not a member of EU
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Hopefully I was able, as short it was, introduce this beautiful and peaceful country to you. If You want to learn more about the property market in Northern Cyprus and e.g. what well-respected US financial magazine Forbes says about this country, please read "The popularity of Northern Cyprus is growing every year" blog post.
Hope to see you in Cyprus!
Discover Northern Cyprus is Jouni, originally from Finland, who fell in love with Northern Cyprus at first sight years ago. Now I want to help You to find this maybe a bit less known country, which, in addition to its natural beauty, offers quality, relaxed living in the middle of magnificent landscapes.
We have a great and positive team who will help You in every possible way, so that your buying process is safe, secure and smooth.
Come with me and discover this real Pearl of the Mediterranean! Read more about Inspection Trip.
