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Here's some travel advice to keep you informed and
safe when it comes to travel to Cyprus...
Civil Unrest/Political Tension
The Government of the Republic of Cyprus is the sole internationally
recognised authority in Cyprus but its authority, in practice,
is exercised only in the southern part of the island which is
predominantly Greek Cypriot. The northern part of Cyprus is controlled
by the so-called 'Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus' (TRNC)
which is only recognised by Turkey. There is also an evident Turkish
military presence in the north. A United Nations peacekeeping
force (UNFICYP) patrols the buffer zone between the two areas.
There have been occasional violent incidents along the the UN
Buffer Zone ('The Green Line').
Public demonstrations and large public gatherings occur and may
turn violent, especially around the UN Buffer Zone. Travellers
are advised to exercise caution in discussions in public areas
of sensitive issues related to the problems of Cyprus' continued
division.
Local Conditions
Travellers are advised to drive cautiously and defensively. The
road accident toll in Cyprus is high. Driving standards are low.
Secondary and mountain roads are poorly maintained and pose additional
safety risks.
Travellers are advised to take note of warning signs on beaches.
Drownings have occurred off tourist beaches in Cyprus.
Cyprus is located in an active seismic zone. In the event of a
natural disaster local authorities will provide advice.
Local Law and Customs
Travellers are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to
local laws. Local laws and legal processes can be very different
from those at home. A violation of local laws may result in a
jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular assistance cannot
override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or
unjust by your standards.
It is illegal in both parts of the island to photograph military
camps, facilities, personnel or equipment (even inadvertently)
and to enter restricted military zones. Travellers are advised
against unauthorised entry into the UN Buffer Zone as parts are
still mined
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa conditions are subject to change. For up-to-date visa information,
travellers should contact the nearest Embassy
or Consulate of Cyprus well in advance of travel.
Travellers are advised to note carefully laws and regulations
concerning travel to the north of the island. Travellers arriving
through designated ports of entry in the Republic of Cyprus are
normally able to cross into the north. Travellers may cross Ledra
Palace and Ayios Dhometios checkpoints in Nicosia, and at the
Pergamos and Strovilia checkpoints outside. Visitors crossing
into the north are no longer required to return the same day.
Checkpoints operate 24 hrs, but these arrangements are subject
to change without notice. Travellers must present their passport
and are given a white TRNC Visa Card to complete (which must be
submitted when leaving the north).
Health Issues
Travellers travelling to the countryside and archaelogical tomb
sites are advised to take precautions against communicable diseases
carried by rodents, bats and other vectors.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs
& Trade
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