The British Community is growing very fast as more and more British
couples (retired and families with children) buy a property in
Northern Cyprus and come to permanently live on the northern side of
the island. The main attraction of this area is that it is unspoilt
by commercial tourism and has a slow pace of life, safe environment
(the area is virtually crime free), the best value for money
property and low cost of living in Northern Cyprus than in other
Mediterranean countries.
UK visitors and residents receive a very warm welcome from the local
population. English is widely spoken and there are some unmistakable
influences of the British colonial era on the island. Northern
Cyprus community is predominantly Muslim and is very tolerant to
other customs and traditions; they especially show respect and
appreciation for British culture. There are several churches in the
Northern part of the island. The Anglican Church of St Andrew's is
situated in Girne and services are held on Sundays and Thursdays.
Also church services are held at the Nestorian Church of St George
in Famagusta every Sunday (5.00pm). The Roman Catholic Church is
located in Girne town centre a walking distance from the Dome Hotel.
The times and days of these services do vary.
Families with children will have a choice of several English
speaking schools. In Girne (Kyrenia) there is an English-run
nursery. Also there are two English-language primary schools
attached to the universities. English language secondary education
can be received at the International American College (Lefkosa),
Girne American University and University in Lefkosa. There are
several societies on the island, to name a few: Kyrenia Amateur
Dramatic Society (KADS), Northern Cyprus Society for the Protection
of Birds and Nature, Kyrenia Animal Rescue, The Red Cross and
others.
The rules and processes occasionally change and it is very important
to have up to date information when buying a property in Northern
Cyprus. We can provide you with free information about medical care,
education, domestic services, finance, etc on the island and advise
you on how to apply for a residence permit, start a new business or
export register and maintain your car. The cost of living in North
Cyprus is not as expensive as in UK.
There is local English newspaper which will help you to know what's
going on the island and get your messages through to the community.
Most of the supermarkets and local corner shops sell the weekly
English paper “Cyprus Today”, which is published every Saturday. All
forthcoming events – concerts, charity events, evening and day
entertainment, as well as useful information and advertisements from
different business, restaurants and bars are advertised here. North
Cyprus living could be as exciting and eventful as you would like it
to be.
The British Residents Society also provides a comprehensive
telephone list of its members which is updated every six months. It
could be a good help to the local telephone directory.
Buying a property in Northern Cyprus as well as anywhere overseas is
big step and you need to have your eyes wide open and have as much
information as possible.
Remember, we are here to answer your queries.
Sincerely,
