Saturday, 24 October 2009

What To Do in North Cyprus...

The Hash House Harriers Meet
Runners and fast walkers keen to join the North Cyprus Hash House Harriers are invited to head east from Kyrenia, pass the Acapulco Spa Resort, & turn up the hill towards the Besparmak Mountains. Keep a lookout for the signs that read "H3". The Harriers will meet on November 1st at 11am if you would like to tag along. For further information ring +90 392 721 3013.

Halloween Market
Carpenter's Craft and Farmer's market on Wednesday will have a Halloween theme and shoppers will get free entry into the Halloween tombola for every five TL they spend. There will be a competition for the best Halloween costume, judging will be at 11 am.
The market is on from 10 am every Wednesday in Karaoglanoglu. Follow the Carpenter's sign from the main road.

Ballroom Dance classes
Anyone wishing to emulate Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse can sashay along to Chateau Lambousa for some lessons. Beginner's and improver's sessions are held under the tutelage of Grahame Ash who competed at professional level in North London. Classes for beginners start at 7pm on Sundays and end at 7.45. Improvers classes are from 7.45 to 8.30. For more information call Grahame Ash on +90 533 8433554.

Tuesday, 20 October 2009

North Cyprus Events Update

Efes Pilsen Blues Festival
The festival that will showcase the talents of such blues legends as Terry Evans, Ray Schinnery & Shemakia Copeland, will begin at Kyrenia's Jasmine Court Hotel on Wednesday 21st October at 6pm. Tickets are priced at 20TL and are available from the Passport Restaurant in Kyrenia, all branches of Deniz Plaza and the Supreme Supermarket in Catalkoy.

UK Choir in Northern Cyprus
The 60 member choir of Gloucester Choral Society will be performing three concerts in Karaman church starting Sunday 25th October.
Under the baton of musical director Adrian Partington, the choir will perform works by Handel and early Italian and Spanish sacred music, in addition to some lighter, more modern works.
Tickets are priced at 30TL and are available from the Levant Restaurant and village shop in Karaman, or by telephone on 0392 8222 559 or 0533 844 0950. They can also be obtained from the Toros Centre in Nicosia.
The culmination of the choir's visit will be joining the Kyrenia Chamber choir in two performances of Carl Jenkins' 'the Armed Man' in Bellapais Abbey on Wednesday 28th & Friday 30th October at 8:30pm. Tickets for this event are also priced at 30TL and are available from Toros Home Store in Kyrenia & Toros Centre in Nicosia.

Saturday, 17 October 2009

North Cyprus Events

Comedy Theatre
Theatre Lambousa has three one act comedies to be performed on three consecutive nights in October. Performances will be held in the Baron's Theatre at Chateau Lambousa at 7.30pm on 22, 23 and 24 October with tickets costing 20TL. See local press for full details or call 0533 8433554 for more info.

Buyukkonuk Village Eco Festival
The fourth consecutive Eco-festival to be held in Buyukkonuk is on October 18th, taking place in the centre of the village at 10am and running until approximately 10pm. It will be a day packed with many things to see and do and will include demonstrations on how to continue the old cypriot crafts of weaving, and basket making. Learn how to make Hellim cheese and carob syrup, or how to sun-dry figs and tomatoes. Maybe even how to make a new traditional Cypriot broom. There will be plenty of local produce on sale and covered stands just in case it rains! This is an enjoyable day out for all the family.

Sunday, 20 September 2009

North Cyprus - Current Events - Update

Piano concert
The top concert pianist Corinna Simon will be performing in the Goethe Institute on Friday 25th September. The concert is free and it will contain works by Handel, Beethoven and Mendelssohn. The performance will commence at 8.30pm. The Goethe Institute is located in the buffer zone close to Ledra Palace.

For Jazz lovers
There will be a free concert in lefkosa's Ataturk Cultural Centre on Thursday 24th at 8pm. The performance will be by the New York based Chris Bayers and Ari Roland Jazz Sextet. The performance is sponsored by the US Embassy.

Saturday, 19 September 2009

North Cyprus - Current Events

1-The first of a two part exhibition in the newly opened Vahit Guney Exhibition Hall, in the former post office of Kaymakli, is already underway. It is a pioneering showcase for the very best of Turkish Cypriot artists and will display paintings and sculptures created by artists born before 1950. Approximately 21 artists will be displaying their works that have been created in stone, wood and on canvas. The exhibition is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10.00 to 12.30 and 16.00 to 18.00 and admission is free.

2. An exhibition entitled "Our Land" displaying watercolours by the well known artist Maxene Shailer will open at the Shayna Beach Club, Catalkoy, Kyrenia on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th September 12.00 to 18.00. Proceeds will go to the SOS orphanage charity.

3. The seventh International North Cyprus Music Festival will begin this coming Wednesday 16th September and will continue in October 16th. Big names from the world of classical music will perform at Bellapais Abbey. All concerts will start at 9pm and tickets for each event are available from Deniz Plaza stores, Dome Hotel, Bellapais ticket office and Kybele restaurant and are priced at 20TL.

4. In late October a 40 person ensemble from Lancashire will visit the TRNC and perform a variety of music from pop to gospel in charity concerts that will climax in a musical extravaganza in the theatre at Salamis on October 30th. See local press for details to be confirmed later.

Sunday, 30 August 2009

Event Updates for September


Bitter lemons
The house that Lawrence Durrell bought in Bellapais during the nineteen fifties, and called Bitter Lemons after publication of his 1957 retrospective of the same name, will open its doors to the public on Thursday September 3rd for guided tours that will run every day except Sunday until September 29th. Opening times are between 11.30 and 1pm.
There will be a talk on the life of Lawrence Durrell that gives a perspective to his life while he was resident on the island.
The tours cost 15TL per person, refreshments will be available and in order to attend a tour, be at the door of Bitter Lemons at 11.30 on a tour day to meet Matthew Shorock who will be the guide.

Carmina Burana
A reminder that Carl Orff's "Carmina Burana" will be performed in Kyrenia Amphitheatre on Wednesday 2nd and Thursday 3rd September. This will be a truly memorable musical treat and even those who do not think they know the music will instantly recognise some of the pieces as they have been used in many TV advertisements. Most particularly for Old Spice aftershave.
150 musicians, choristers and soloists from Germany, Turkey and North Cyprus will be performing in the concerts that start at 8pm. Tickets cost 20TL each and are available from Deniz Plaza shops and Iktisat bank.

Tatlisu Intl. Carob Festival
Planning for the fourth International Carob festival at Tatlisu is well underway and it is due to run from 21st September to 27th. It is hoped that it will be a truly international affair with anyone wishing to play a part being made welcome irrespective of nationality.
There will be a parade at 7pm on the first day, led by an Ottoman style military band and the official opening ceremony conducted by the Prime Ministeer Dervish Eroglu will be held at 7.30pm. Throughout the festival there will be stands the town centre selling a variety of goods and gifts. There will also be exhibitions by folk dancing teams, kite flying competition, Judo and Karate performances, football and wrestling on the beach. So lots of fun for everybody.

Tuesday, 18 August 2009

Fund Raising Event - Kyrenia

"The Nuremburg Teachers' Union Choir will be giving two fund raising concerts at the Kyrenia Amphitheatre on September 2nd and 3rd. They will be joined by members of the Cyprus Art School and both ensembles will support Izmir's Aegean Philharmonic Orchestra in performing Carl Orff's cantata Carmina Burana.
This will give young classical performers from the TRNC an opportunity to share the stage with a leading international vocalists. Funds raised by both performances will be donated to the Cyprus Turkish Orthopedic Disabled Association and the Ozev Special Education School and rehabilitation Centre.
Tickets cost 25TL and are available from branches of Deniz Plaza and Kyrenia Municipality".

Friday, 14 August 2009

4* Green Holiday Village | Kyrenia

Nestled between the gentle slopes of Kyrenia's Five-Finger mountain range and the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean lies the Green Holiday Village in an utterly tranquil setting. This quaint hotel complex is ideally situated in Alsancak, minutes from beautiful sandy beaches which Kyrenia is famous for and coupled with the added bonus of being within walking distance from the ancient ruins of the Kingdom of Lambousa, this complex is ideal for families and history buffs alike. The management are also proud to be running the island’s first and only unique eco-friendly establishment.
The Green Holiday Village offers a choice of bungalows or hotel rooms with air-conditioning and either a private balcony or terrace coming as standard. All rooms have a pool view with sea views available on request. With easy access to regular public bus services, the delightful Kyrenia harbour, with its multitude of dining and day/night time activities is just a short ride away. Green Holiday Village | Kyrenia | North Cyprus
The Green Holiday Village restaurant is colourful, vibrant and has a great atmosphere. Here guests will be able to sample both local and international cuisine in a wonderful surrounding – good food and dedicated staff will ensure every meal is delightful.
Entertainment includes regular barbeque parties, dancing, live music, as well as Cypriot Nights and pool parties to guarantee guests unforgettable memories. Available facilities comprise of a sauna (Fin Bath), massage, fitness centre and a large outdoor swimming pool with pool bar, where quality of service is guaranteed.
The Green Holiday Village is perfect for families looking for great value and everyone else looking for a good base from where to explore North Cyprus.

Green Holiday Village is available from Cyprus Premier from £359 per person for 7 nights on bed & breakfast basis. Price includes return flights, accommodation, return transfers and local representative services and is based on 2 adults sharing. For more information call 08714 266 888 and speak to your friendly holiday advisor or click online at http://www.cypruspremier.com/.

St. Barnabas - Patron Saint of Cyprus

St Barnabas, Famagusta, North CyprusStanding on a slight rise and overlooking the huge necropolis of Salamis is the twin-domed church dedicated to St. Barnabas, patron saint of Cyprus. This church, now used as an icon museum with the ancillary monks’ cells housing an impressive collection of Cypriot artefacts dating from the 7thC BC to the 18thC AD, still retains an air of sanctity and peace. Somewhat illogically on an island of mixed religious beliefs it remains a place of pilgrimage for both Muslim and Christian. Maybe this can be explained by the simple fact that Cyprus is an island where cultures and creeds have crossed, intermingled, blended, and divided over a period far in excess of the previous two thousand years, and each successive belief takes with it some vestige of the one they have left behind. The cultures that worshipped the moon and stars, gave way to those that worshipped pagan idols. These in turn were superseded by faiths that believed in an Almighty Creator and by the time the Romans gained power over the island there was a strong following of Judaism.
Barnabas was a Jew from Salamis who travelled to the Holy Land to study law and while there he met the apostle Paul and was converted to Christianity. On returning to Cyprus, (pertinent Bible references: Acts 4: 36-37, & Acts 13: 1-5) he preached the teachings of Jesus Christ and in 61AD was martyred by his fellow Jews. His death by stoning is the stuff of which legends are made, and traditionally it is accepted that his companion John Mark and other followers hid his body in a secret tomb, where it was destined to remain undisturbed for the next 400 years. That tomb was part of the Salamis necropolis and lay undiscovered until the 5th C AD.
When the tomb was revealed to Bishop Anthemios circa 480AD, with the body of Barnabas holding an illuminated Gospel of St. Matthew, the Bishop, head of the Cyprus church considered this was St Barnabasenough of a miracle to justify his request to Zeno, the Byzantine Emperor, the right to autocephalous status and with it all the benefits of self-governorship. For example revenues accrued in Cyprus would remain on the island rather than be transferred to the See of Antioch. The request was granted and the Orthodox Church of Cyprus took its place in the hierarchy of the Christian churches and has its own Patriarch. Barnabas was canonized and created the Patron Saint of the island. It is an icon of Barnabas, holding St. Matthew’s gospel that is placed in the backrest of the Bishop’s chair, though regrettably there are now few remaining in those churches of Northern Cyprus that are open to the public. A rather quirky patronage for which Barnabas is responsible, is that he protects against hailstorms!
The original Byzantine church crumbled over the succeeding years and was replaced in the 18thC by the present structure. Originally built with three domes, the minimal foundations at the apse end subsided in soft soil with the resulting collapse of one dome and the apse. The repairs that were carried out effectively shortened the nave of the church and did not replace the third dome, giving the church a rather squat and square appearance. The walls of the original apse can still be seen at the eastern end.
Very close to the church is a 19th century small chapel/mausoleum erected over the tomb site and visitors flock to pay their respects most especially on St. Barnabas’s feast day of June 11th.

Wednesday, 24 June 2009

SOS Children’s Village day Fete - 26June'09

Friday 26th June 2009 marks the SOS Children's Village day celebrated at all SOS Children's Villages all around the world in over 130 countries.

The SOS Children's Village, based in Lefkosa (Nicosia), North Cyprus, invites you to this annual charitable event where the children of the village will perform dance and other shows.

You will also have the opportunity to see the nursery childrens' handicrafts and their art exhibition.

A fair will also be amongst the fun on this day in aid to raise funds for the SOS Children's Village in which many local business' will be participating at various stools.

Price: 2.5 TL Invitation Entrance Fee. PLEASE BRING INVITATIONS with you! [ Invitations available for purchase from the SOS Children's Village]

This year, SOS Children's Villages is celebrating its 60th anniversary. In 1949, Hermann Gmeiner built the first SOS Children's Village in the Austrian town of Imst to provide orphaned and abandoned children with an environment which is as close to a family as possible. Today SOS Children's Villages provides help to children and families in need in 132 countries and territories around the world. On the occasion of our anniversary, which we are proud to celebrate together with our many donors, sponsors, friends and partners, we would like to invite you to discover the world of the SOS Children's Villages through their eyes...

For further information, please contact the SOS Childrens Village;

Address:
Dr. Fazil Kucuk Bulvari
Lefkosa (Nicosia)
(Opposite BRTK)
North Cyprus

Phone: 00 90 392 225 70 17
Mobile: 00 90 392 225 43 18
Office opening hours: 18:00 - 21:00

Tuesday, 21 April 2009

Kyrenia - a mesmerising experience

Kyrenia HarbourTo most visitors, a holiday in Northern Cyprus means Kyrenia, and Kyrenia means the stunning Kyrenia Harbour. The tranquillity can be felt even before the harbour is seen and as you stroll along the sea-front, there is an atmosphere of calm. Turning into the harbour itself provides a visual feast, where beautiful, whitewashed buildings and colourful boats shelter under a massive, Byzantine castle. During the day, Kyrenia harbour is sleepy and relaxed, but as sunset beckons, there is a magical transformation as locals take their evening stroll and the restaurants and tavernas prepare for their guests. Kyrenia Castle

However, holidays in Kyrenia mean more than just the harbour and castle. Strolling through the streets of the old town, you will never be far away from the ruins of the Lusignan walls and towers which originally formed a protective curtain around the town.

Kyrenia holidays offer plenty for the keen shopper, with a vast array of outlets providing everything from the latest designer fashions to Cypriot antiques - not to mention a truly remarkable choice of restaurants.

Kyrenia is an ideal base to explore Northern Cyprus, and it has some of the island's best accommodation. Yet the serene beauty of the countryside is never far away....

Bellapais Village, the setting for Lawrence Durrell's classic novel 'Bitter Lemons of Cyprus' is a few minutes drive away and the 13th century abbey bears witness to the fact that the village has changed little since Durrell's time. The Nearby Crusader castles of Hilarion, Kantara and Buffavento are particularly fine, as is Nicosia, the capital of modern-day North Cyprus. Bellapais Abbey

West of Kyrenia lies 'the Garden of North Cyprus', with citrus orchards, verdant forests and fertile plains. Here, the Roman settlement of Soli is worth a visit, as is the Persian palace of Vouni, where there are awe-inspiring views across the island and the sea.

It is said that the town was founded in the 10th century, and was called Corineum during the Roman period. As can be seen by the many tall buildings surrounding the harbour, it was once a bustling trade port, the buildings used for storage of goods such as carob. Under the British rule many improvements were made to the harbour area and also to the road system, allowing easy access through to Lefkosa. Kyrenia also boasts the New Harbour to the east of the town, which is a central departure point for passengers wishing to travel to and from Turkey. Kyrenia SunSet

The town sprawls out from the harbour and is home to a number of interesting museums and galleries, as well as being a hub for local tradesmen. The old town is located behind the harbour, and if you wander along the rambling narrow streets you’ll come to small secret shops, cafes and restaurants some with tiny courtyards all tucked away in the shade of the buildings. Some of the older buildings in the town, which are still used as residences, are amazingly intricate in architectural design and detail, giving a good indication of the wealth of sea-faring merchants in days gone by.

Kyrenia castle is lit up beautifully in the night time and adds a stunning focal point to the whole harbour area. It dates back to the late 12th century and is believed to have been built on a former Roman fort. Today it’s an exciting visitor attraction and museum with its lofty heights free and unrestricted by guard rails for people to climb around…parents watch out because a lot of those edges really are unprotected! It also houses the famous shipwreck museum that is home to one of the oldest ships ever recovered from the sea. The castle also hosts music festivals and events, making it one of the most visited attractions in North Cyprus. Kyrenia Coastline

Many Europeans have already made their home in and around Kyrenia, making it feel less of a town but more of a small city these days, with development seemingly expanding on a daily basis, but together making it more appealing to potential investors and residents. Kyrenia is a busy, social and cultural town with the GAU University only a short distance away, giving it a real mix of cultures and races


Thursday, 16 April 2009

Riverside Holiday Village - the perfect North Cyprus retreat...

A warm and friendly welcome awaits you at the Riverside Holiday Village...

Situated on the edge of the typically Cypriot village of Alsancak, this North Cyprus family-run accommodation is situated in the beautiful hillside surrounded by orchards. The Riverside is located 8 miles from the historic harbour of Kyrenia. This delightful family-run hotel is renowned for its friendly and relaxed atmosphere and also provides extensive children facilities with two outdoor swimming pools, one with fun slides and chutes. The hotel provides comfortable and pleasant accommodation with beautiful hillside views and is set in pretty and tranquil grounds bursting with colour and scent. The Riverside offers a selection of one bed roomed superior villas and a limited number of two bed roomed. The villas incorporate a basic kitchen, good size lounges, telephone, television and private patio or balcony.
For the more energetic there is horse riding, a small fitness centre, a sauna and resident masseuse.

Immediately upon arrival and right up to the end of your wonderful stay with the Riverside Holiday village, you will experience first class, friendly and warm hospitality.

Package holidays for the Riverside Holiday Village, including flights, accommodation in a superior villa and with complimentary airport transfers start from only £299 more info

Sunday, 29 March 2009

2009 Ozankoy Flower Show - May 2009

Why not come along to the 2nd Ozankoy Flower Show being held on the 2nd & 3rd May 2009 at Five Fingers Restaurant in Ozankoy.

With competitions for flowers, cake baking, bread making, traditional Cypriot food and much more, it's a great day out for all the family! Learn about Carob trees and their importance both in history and modern day life in Northern Cyprus.

On the Saturday 2nd May there will be competitions and displays of art, photography and a large variety of handcrafts.

On the Sunday 3rd May there will be the children's competition and other displays and competitions including fruit ,vegetables, flowers, bakery and home produce.

The flower show had over 1,500 visitors last year, don't miss out!! You can view more information on the show on the official website: http://www.ozankoyflowershow.com/

Wednesday, 25 March 2009

Bellapais Music Festival

North Cyprus 13th International Bellapais Music Festival is being held in May 2009, at the Bellapais Abbey near Kyrenia.

For an outstanding evening of classical music from famous pianists, violinists and orchestras such as Belgium Chamber Orchestra, Hanna DREZIEWIKA, Florance DEGOSSELY, Marie VERMEULİN, Elvira FOTİ, The Symphony Band of Turkish Armed Forces and many more, why not take a look at the official website www.bellapaisfestival.com/festival_13.htm. You can book your accommodation through Cyprus Premier - http://www.cypruspremier.com/

Wednesday, 18 March 2009

Getting more for your money in Euro Free North Cyprus

British tourists, fed up with the dramatic price hikes of holidays this year in Euro bearing holiday destinations, are finding refuge in Euro-Free North Cyprus... As the only Euro-Med destination not having officially adopted the Euro currency, North Cyprus is a haven for deals for the more financially conscious and is slowly gaining recognition for being a great value destination.

In Northern Cyprus the currency for purchasing everything apart from real estate is the Turkish Lira which has fared much better against the British Pound in comparison to the Euro. This year, those who are destined for Cyprus in the hope of enjoying an affordable holiday in the sun, away from the UK's and Europe’s credit crunch situation should make certain they are holidaying on the right side (i.e., the North side) of the Green Line!

The cost of most things in North Cyprus has always been more reasonable when compared to the prices in the tourism resorts in South Cyprus, such as; Paphos, Ayia Napa, Larnaca & Latsi, and has consistently been considered as an affordable holiday destination. This is true now more than ever as the value of your hard earned pounds have diminished considerably against the Euro.

This fact is having a very real impact on people’s pockets. This year, Euro based holiday hotpots from Spain to [South] Cyprus and from France to Portugal are losing favour with the British holidaymaker, as they go in search of bargains and better value in light of the fact that the British economy is suffering from stagflation. With house prices falling, wages festering and the cost of living soaring, along with inflation, us Brits need to go on holiday somewhere where we will be valued and where our money will not be fleeced from us!

Northern Cyprus is the perfect refuge for British holidaymakers wanting a destination in the sun, where they can be assured of a warm welcome and where they can rest assured their money will go a lot further.

CyprusPremier is renowned for offering great value holidays to North Cyprus, with an unrivalled service from start-to-finish. With unbeatable holiday deals, we refuse to be beaten on price for the same holiday by anyone - rest assured you are in capable hands.

Check - http://www.cypruspremier.com/, for the very latest best value deals or call now on 08714 266 888 and speak to your very own personal holiday advisor...

Long famous for its property market that is on a par with, but at a fraction of the cost of similar properties in south Cyprus, North Cyprus is now the preferred side of the island for those who want to get the best from Cyprus at a price that is right!

Monday, 16 March 2009

Super Saver Deals - Expire 20/03/09
We refuse to be beaten on price and will match and better any offer for the sme holiday!

Just some of our current special offers - many more available on http://www.cypruspremier.com/ or call your personal holiday advisor on 08714 266 888...

5* Acapulco Resort & Spa - £399 (per person)
Travel during 15 April - 15 May with FREE Half Board

4* Riverside Holiday Village - £322 (per person)
Travel during 15 April - 15 May with FREE Car Hire

4* Ship Inn Hotel - £360 (per person)
Travel during 15 April - 15 May with FREE Half Board & FREE Car Hire

4* Oscars Club Resort - £360 (per person)
Travel during 15 April - 15 May

5* Jasmine Court Hotel - £430 (per person)
Travel during 15 April - 15 May with FREE Room Upgrades

5* Bella View Boutique Hotel - £399 (per person)
Travel during 15 April - 15 May - Impeccable Service