Turkish Cypriot People

Turkish Cypriot People

The most friendliest and welcoming people of the Mediterranean.

The North Republic of Northern Cyprus is one of those rare countries where people still have time for one other and will help a stranger out as a gesture of good manners. The same can be applied to the tourists visiting the island, as many of the Turkish Cypriots are more than happy to help you out when asking for directions or offer you the traditional Turkish coffee while you shop and talk in their shops.
Turkish Cypriots: a special people

Despite North Cyprus being such a small island, it is important to remember that the north and south of the island each have their own distinct cultures, languages and traditions which have formed over time, especially after the division of the island in 1974 where the Greek Cypriots headed towards the south while the Turkish Cypriots headed to the north. The people of North Cyprus are well known for being a very relaxed and laid back community, as well as being fiercely proud of their traditions, such as the celebration of the Ramadan at many family restaurants, where tourists of any nationality are more than welcome to join in on the celebrations!
Turkish Cypriots: an ancient people

The descendants of the Turkish Cypriots people are a variation of many different island invaders over the years, from the Phoenicians to the Ottomans. The Turkish Cypriots are proud to call themselves Cypriots, keeping a separate and individual identity from the Turks who made Cyprus their home after the government gave its approval in 1974. The Turkish Cyprus showed their peaceful nature in 2004 when 65% of those who voted in the Annan Plan said ‘’Yes’’ to the reunification of the island. Sadly, the plan was never carried out due to most of the South Cypriots opposing to this idea.

In a further show of good nature, the Turkish Cypriot government was the side which took the first step towards opening the first border between the north and south in April, 2003. It was a magical moment which saw old friends to once again bond, and for each side to visit the villages they had grown up in.