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Cyprus covers 9,250km of which 3,355km are in the Turkish Cypriot area. |
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Its coast line covers 648km |
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A narrow band of mountains runs across the north, while in the south the Troodos Mountains dominate |
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Highest point - Mt. Olympus at 1,951m |
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Population of approximately 776,000 residents - 81% Greek Cypriots, 11% Turkish Cypriots and 8% foreign residents and workers |
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Cyprus offers 340 days of sunshine per year |
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During the summer months, the sun shines for an average of 11.5 hours a day averaging 29C, and for approximately 6.5 hours during the winter months of December and January, averaging 13C |
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The higher slopes of the Troodos mountain range offer good skiing conditions for approximately six weeks a year |
| Medical Care |
| The emergency departments of most hospitals have English-speaking personnel, although it is advisable to seek the assistance of an interpreter for more complex medical matters. Emergency medical treatment, administered in the Accident and Emergency department, is free of costs for very little. However, those wishing to go private can take the advantage of a wide choice of doctors, specialists and surgeons. |
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| Education |
| Education is free and compulsory for children aged 5 to 16 years. If you want your children to attend state school they will need a little knowledge of the Greek language. There are also private schools on the island usually run by religious groups of foreign organisations. In most of the large cities there are international schools where education is based on the UK curriculum and taught in English. |
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| Pets |
| To take your pets to Cyprus with you just ensure that your pet has had their necessary vaccinations in the UK and then they will be able to travel with you, serve a six-month quarantine period in your home and then start their new Cypriot life. A license needs to be obtained from the Department of Veterinary services in Nicosia. Your UK vet will be able to inform you of the vaccinations needed. |
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| Currency |
| Cyprus became a member of the EU back in 2004 and is working towards changing their currency to the Euro in 2008. However, at present the currency is still the Cyprus pound. All major credit cards are widely accepted. |
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| Language |
| Greek is the mother tongue in Cyprus but English is widely spoken and understood. Shops and street signs are generally in both languages |
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| Cost of Living |
| One of Cyprus' main appeals for those who live there is the relatively low cost of living. Cyprus is thought to be one of Europe's cheapest countries whilst still offering a comparatively high standard of living. |