INFORMATION
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. |
|
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.
Communication
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! If you need to stay in email contact, there is an internet cafe in Pissouri village. At the villa, the Vodafone CYTA network provides GPRS/3G service and there is free WiFi within the Ampeli Restaurant.
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 645 0707 or on line at www.ehic.org.uk/Internet/home.do . Please note that some non-government websites offer (chargeable) application services. There is no reason to be charged: the card is free of charge.
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.
From time to time we will try to provide Late Press