General Information about Cyprus

Travelling to Cyprus

Time Zone, Country Code and Phones
Cyprus is two hours ahead of GMT (GMT+2). The international dialing code for Cyprus is +357

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.
Weather in October: Cyprus remains warm and sunny with temperatures in the mid- to high-20s °C (high-70s to low-80s °F) throughout October.
Weather Forecast: Meteorological Service Website: www.moa.gov.cy

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.
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 times vary depending on their type and location, though shops normally open between 07:00 and 09:00. For the period April 1st – October 31st shops close at 20:00 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, at 15:00 on Wednesday and at 19:30 on Saturday.

Chemist Pharmacies / Drug Stores
They stay open during shopping hours. Late night chemists can be found here: www.cyta.com.cy

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.