CYPRUS – the Island

General Information

Time Zone: GMT+2

International dialling code: +357

Daylight Saving Time: Each year on the last Sunday of March at 01:00 GMT (03:00 Local Time), Daylight Saving Time comes into effect in Cyprus and all clocks are advanced by one hour. On the last Sunday in October at 01:00 GMT (04:00 Local Time), Cyprus reverts to Standard Time.

Climate & Weather
Cyprus enjoys an intense Mediterranean climate, with long dry summers from mid–May to mid–October, and mild winters from December to February, which are separated by short autumn and spring seasons.The island enjoys abundant sunshine, and even in December and January, there is an average of six hours of bright sunshine per day, whilst over the six ‘summer’ months, there is an average of 11.5 hours of bright sunshine per day.

Daily temperatures during the hottest months of July and August range between 30° C on the central plain, and 24° C on the Troodos Mountains. The average maximum temperatures for these two months range between 38° C and 27° C. In January, the coolest month, the indicative daily temperature is 10° C on the central plain, and 3° C on the higher parts of the Troodos Mountains, while the average minimum temperatures are 5° C and 0° C.

The average daily temperature in Cyprus in November ranges from 16°C (61°F) to 22°C (72°F). Although the days are still relatively warm, the evenings can be slightly cooler, so it is advisable to pack a light jacket or sweater for the evenings.

Weather Forecast: Meteorological Service Website: www.moa.gov.cy

spoken Languages
The official languages of the island are Greek and Turkish, whilst English is widely spoken. French, German and Russian are also spoken within the tourism industry.

Religion
Cyprus enjoys an exceedingly high level of freedom of worship. While the majority of Greek-Cypriots are Greek Orthodox Christians, other denominations are represented on the island, including Armenians, Maronites and Roman Catholics. The Turkish-Cypriot community is predominantly Muslim.

Currency
Cyprus uses the EURO currency however, banks exchange all major currencies. ATMs are located around the town and tourist resorts for cash withdrawals. Most shops, restaurants and hotels accept all major credit cards.

Currency Exchange
All banks operating in Cyprus offer foreign currency exchange services and quote the exchange rates of the Euro against all major foreign currencies daily. Foreign currency can also be exchanged at hotels. More detailed information concerning exchange rates can be obtained from the Central Bank of Cyprus.

Bank Opening Hours: Monday to Friday morning 8:00 – 14:30. Banks at Larnaca and Paphos International Airport provide exchange bureau services on a 24-hour service.

Credit Cards
Major credit cards are widely accepted throughout Cyprus, especially in major towns and tourist areas that are used for serving tourists. Visa and MasterCard are the most-accepted types of cards, with American Express, Diners Club, Maestro, Carte Blanche accepted less frequently.

Electric Current – Voltage
Power supply in Cyprus is 240 volts AC, 50Hz. Sockets are usually 13 amp, square pin in most buildings. Many hotels provide adaptors upon request from the reception.

General Shopping Hours

Shop opening hours vary depending on their type and location and whether they are located in urban, tourist or rural areas.
Generally, shops will open between 07:00 – 21:00 on Monday – Saturday, but this can vary an hour or two either way, depending on the type of shop and the area it is located in. On Sunday, opening times are later, typically around 11:00, and closing times vary from 14:00 – 22:00, again depending on the type of outlet and its area.

Chemist Pharmacies / Drug Stores
They stay open during shopping hours. Late night chemists can be found here

Driving Side
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. All the international road traffic signs are in use and placed on the left-hand side of roads and highways. On roundabouts, priority is given to the right side.

Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places and night clubs.

Useful Phone Numbers
-Police and all Emergencies: 112, 199
-Flight Information: 77778833
-Pharmacies after Hours: 90901415
-Doctors on Call: 90901435

Insurance
It is recommended that participants arrange insurance for medical expenses, loss and accidents occurring during the conference. The organizers cannot be held responsible for any losses, damages or injuries.