Paphos information

Time: GMT +2 (GMT +3 from the last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).

Electricity: Electrical current is 240 volts, 50Hz. The UK-style three square-pin plugs are used.

Money: The currency is the Cyprus pound (CYP), which is divided into 100 cents. Major credit cards are accepted at most establishments. Money and travellers cheques can be exchanged at banks. Banks are closed on weekends. There are ATMs all over the island, operating 24 hours a day.

Language: The official language is Greek even though Greek Cypriot dialect is different from the one in mainland Greece. Turkish and English are also widely spoken.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: British travellers must hold a valid passport. For holders of passports endorsed British Citizen or British Overseas Territories Citizen, a visa is not needed for a stay of 90 days, given that the visit is for tourist purposes only. In all other cases a visa is needed, and passports must have validity at least three months further than the period of planned stay. However, it is advised to hold a passport valid for six months beyond period of intended stay.

Passport/Visa Note: Travellers should note that foreigners entering Cyprus north of the UN-patrolled 'green line' are deemed by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to have entered illegally, and can be fined when crossing to the south (EU). Policies and procedures are subject to sudden change and visitors should check on the current situation before departing for Cyprus. The partial lifting of restrictions on crossing the 'green line' allows Cypriots to cross in both directions at designated crossing points. It is possible to travel to the north of Cyprus from the south by crossing at several checkpoints, including the Ledra Palace checkpoint.

Transfers:  Paphos has excellent bus services between Kato Paphos and the upper town which you can use at a low cost. Car hire is also a good way to go around and explore the surrounding areas, but the most important parts of town can be easily navigated on foot. Public taxis servicing Paphos and its surrounds are available, but it is best not to pre-book one as drivers tend to turn on meters when leaving to pick up passengers. You can also hire a scooter to go around for some extra excitement but note that accident rates are very high.

Health: No vaccinations are required; Of course medical insurance is advised anyhow. Health services on Cyprus are of a good standard. UK citizens should bring with them a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which allows them to receive emergency medical treatment free of charge. Medical charges are reasonable in Cyprus, but supplies are expensive.

Tipping: Tipping is not necessary as a 10% service charge is levied in hotels and restaurants, but small change is always welcome by taxi drivers, porters etc.

Safety: The terrorist hazard is low, and crime against tourists is rare.

Communications: The international access code for Cyprus is +357. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Area codes are not required. There are public phones in all towns and villages and can be used for domestic and international calls. Phone cards can be purchased from shops, banks and post offices. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts.