Cyprus has had a long and interesting history that stretches well across nine millennia during which time it has been occupied by several empires that swept across the Mediterranean. This happened because of the strategic position enjoyed by Cyprus in the East Mediterranean region. After several annexations and invasions, Cyprus was finally made into a British colony.
Since gaining its independence in 1960, Cyprus was subsequently subjected to an internal struggle that resulted in the island being split into 1/3rd northern part and 2/3rd southern parts. The northern third of the island is occupied by the Turkish Cypriots that make up 12% of the total population. 84% percent of the population is made up of Greek Cypriots who occupy the southern two-thirds of the island.
Today, Cyprus offers a perfect spot for relaxation, water sports, exploration, archaeology, beaches, and medieval castles. Cyprus has bright sunshine for almost the whole year except for a few days in rainy season. All this is further enhanced by the warmth of its people and the high level of hospitality that can be found all over the island including Northern Cyprus. So it does not really matter whether you, as a visitor, are an archaeologist, a nature lover, an outdoor type who like trekking or skiing, or simply someone interest in new cultures and peoples, Cyprus is the ideal spot in many respects. Northern Cyprus features the Kyrenia Mountains. These mountains are covered in pine forest and they slope down to the waters of the Mediterranean where you can find the beautiful harbor that is home to many great restaurants.
The climate of Cyprus is typically Mediterranean in its makeup with hot and dry summers from June to September and mild winters from November to March. The average annual temperature is 65 Fahrenheit, average summer temperature is 90 Fahrenheit, and the average winter temperature is 50 Fahrenheit in January and February, the coldest months. Due to consistently clement weather the Cyprus lifestyle is one of relaxation and no hurry.
The northern part of the island was annexed by Turkey in response to a coup sponsored by Greece and is known as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. It is an autonomous state that displays a healthy mixture of rural and urban with the two types of regions lying closely packed together. It also has a very interesting combination of ancient and modern because of its rich cultural background and the relatively recent urbanization. The major geographical feature of northern Cyprus is the Troodos Mountain range that offers some excellent trekking opportunities during summer and spring while offering several ski resorts when covered in snow during the winter months.
Though an island, Cyprus is very easily accessible through air and boat, mostly because it is so centrally located. Most of Europe and neighboring countries are less than two hours flight-time from Cyprus.
Northern Cyprus