Currency Telephones Time Difference Electricity Health Access Children Linens Smoking Late Press Newletter
INFORMATION
Being the closest at only 25km away, Paphos airport is the most convenient. The alternative at Larnaka is 95km. Scheduled flights are available to both Paphos and Larnaka on British Airways and Cyprus Airways. Often cheaper, however, charter flights from UK regional airports to Paphos (and Larnaka) are available. To compare the various prices and availability, try web sites such as www.cheapflights.co.uk or www.skybargains.co.uk or www.flightline.co.uk . Since March 2008 easyJet have been offering flights from both London Gatwick and Manchester to Paphos. Check for details at www.easyJet.com
Taxis are available at the airports at a typical equivalent cost of £25 from Paphos to Villa Berengaria. However it is likely, though not essential, that you will wish to hire a car for your stay in Cyprus. You will be pleased to learn that Cypriots drive on the left! It is possible to hire a car at the airport or in Pissouri. If hiring from the airport you should book in advance and do remember to bring your UK driving licence with you. As always when hiring a car, ensure that there is adequate insurance. To compare costs and to see what deals are available, try web sites such as www.auto-europe.co.uk or www.carjet.co.uk which offer reasonable prices from well known companies who operate at the two airports.
Cyprus has a wonderful climate with something for everyone. Summer is typically between May and October. Expect high temperatures, clear skies and cooling sea breezes. Sun protection is a must. Temperatures are higher inland though refreshingly cooler in the mountains. Autumn lasts into November. Warm clothing will be needed in the evenings. Mountain leaves change colour as do those of the vines which turn golden with crimson hues. Winter lasts through December and January when there is a chance of rain, and snow may fall on Troodos but there is still much sunshine. Days are often cool but bright and clear in spring, which lasts throughput to April. This is the ideal time for country and mountain walks when flowering plants are abundant. Look out for cyclamen, monkey orchid and red anemone. Average temperatures in centigrade and rainfall days are as follows:
|
|
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
| Average Temperature |
13 |
13 |
14 |
17 |
21 |
24 |
27 |
27 |
25 |
22 |
17 |
14 |
| Average Maximum (day) |
17 |
17 |
18 |
21 |
26 |
29 |
31 |
31 |
31 |
27 |
22 |
18 |
| Average Minimum (night) |
8 |
8 |
9 |
13 |
17 |
20 |
23 |
23 |
21 |
17 |
13 |
9 |
| Average Sea Temperature |
16 |
17 |
17 |
19 |
21 |
24 |
26 |
28 |
28 |
25 |
22 |
19 |
| Average Rainy Days |
8 |
6 |
6 |
4 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
5 |
6 |
|
Current time and temperature at nearby Paphos. Click image for more information & forecasts.
|
|
Currency
On the 1st of January 2008, Cyprus adopted the Euro. The conversion rate was legally fixed at 1 Euro equalling 0.585274 Cyprus pounds. You can expect to see dual pricing for some time to come. The use of credit/debit cards is common in Cyprus in banks (ATMs), fuel stations, hotels, and larger shops. Do carry some currency (Euros) and consider bringing traveller's cheques.
One of the attractions of being on holiday is getting away from normal life. Never-the-less it is sometimes necessary to keep in contact. Cyprus offers some of the cheapest telephone calls in Europe. One of the most convenient ways is to buy a CYTA phone card which can be used in many pay phones. There is one just a few yards from Villa Berengaria. Phone cards don't, of course, account for incoming calls. As an alternative, then, you could bring your own mobile phone. Before leaving the UK check with your service provider that it is suitable for use in Cyprus and that your account has been enabled to operate abroad. When using your UK mobile you will be charged, at international rates, for calls you make and those you receive. Recent EU legislation should mean that such charges are now affordable - but do check in advance. Remember to bring your charger!
Like the UK, Cyprus operates daylight saving time. Accordingly local time is always 2 hours ahead of the UK.
The electricity in Cyprus is 240 volts (same as UK). All outlets in Villa Berengaria conform to the square pin UK standard (BS1363). A two pin shaver adapter is provided.
As with all holidays, it is strongly recommended that you arrange for insurance. The Cypriot medical service is recognised for its high standards and modern approach. You will also find the local pharmacists very helpful. The emergency numbers in Cyprus are 112 or 199.
Since January 2006 the European Health Insurance Card became valid for use in Cyprus. This can be applied for in the UK, free of charge, through Post Offices, by phoning 0845 606 2030 or on line at www.ehic.org.uk
The Cyprus Tourist Organisation (CTO) says that medical treatment and assistance is offered free of charge to international tourists in case of health emergencies at the Accident and Emergency Department of Government Hospitals. Out-patient and in-patient treatment is provided against payment of prescribed fees. Holiday makers can also make use of their health insurance, which covers medical expenses, provided that this insurance covers the length of their stay on the island.
The CTO says that tap water in Cyprus is safe to drink. In Villa Berengaria most water is stored in roof tanks. In the kitchen there is a tap which draws water directly from the mains supply.
Villa Berengaria is not specifically designed for people who have special access requirements. Sleeping, shower and toilet facilities are, however, available on the ground floor. Accordingly, the villa may suit your needs. We can provide dimensions of doors and steps. Please contact us to discuss your needs.
We regret that Villa Berengaria is not really specified or equipped for the accommodation of babies and young children. In common with most property in Cyprus the floors and stairs have hard surfaces and glazing may not meet appropriate safety standards. Please contact us to discuss your needs.
Villa Berengaria is well provided with bed linens and towels. We do ask that guests don't use our towels at the beach or pool.
We ask that guests do not smoke inside the villa.
From time to time we will try to provide Late Press
Click to download the Spring Newsletter, the Summer Newsletter or the Winter Newsletter
Further Information
Hopefully, this page will have answered many of your questions. Please feel free to contact us for any other information.