Kyrenia Harbour: The Jewel of Northern Cyprus

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Yia sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Andio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Τι κάνετε;
  [Ti kanete?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;
  [Milate Agglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!ΥΓΕΙΑ!
  [Yia!]
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  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

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  [Fiye!]
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  [Kaleste tin Astynomia!]
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  [Eimai arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάζω
  [Apla kitazo]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na meiosete tin timi?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (δέκα)
  [Misi (deka)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
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• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dyo]
• 3Τρία
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• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Επτά
  [Epta]
• 8Οχτώ
  [Ohto]
• 9Εννέα
  [Ennea]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για ....)
  [Ena isitirio (ya ....)]

Kyrenia Harbour has been a vital maritime hub since antiquity, reflecting its strategic location on trade routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Evidence from archaeological excavations indicates that the harbor was used by ancient Greeks and later by Romans, who recognized its potential for commerce and military endeavors.

During the Byzantine period, Kyrenia became an essential port. The harbor facilitated trade and troop movements, contributing to the Byzantine Empire's control over the eastern Mediterranean. Notable structures, such as the Kyrenia Castle built in the 16th century, were established to protect the harbor from potential invaders.

In the late 15th century, the Republic of Venice took control of Kyrenia, enhancing its fortifications to defend against Ottoman incursions. The harbor thrived under Venetian rule, becoming a focal point for shipbuilding and commerce, as well as a base for the Venetian navy, which utilized the harbor for its strategic advantages.

The 16th century ushered in Ottoman rule, which saw further developments around Kyrenia Harbour. The Ottomans invested in the port's infrastructure, including warehouses and customs facilities, to bolster trade. The harbor continued to serve as a critical point for the export of local goods such as wine, olive oil, and textiles.

In the 20th century, Kyrenia Harbour transitioned from a commercial port to a tourist destination. The area has become known for its picturesque views, vibrant waterfront, and historic charm. Today, the harbor is not only a hub for leisure boating and dining but also a site where visitors can appreciate the rich history of Kyrenia, including the nearby shipwreck museum and the iconic castle.

Kyrenia Harbour is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Kyrenia. If you are arriving from the Kyrenia bus station, local buses and taxis are available to take you directly to the harbour in about 10-15 minutes. For those coming from nearby cities such as Nicosia or Famagusta, intercity buses run frequently and can drop you off near the harbour area. If you are driving, there is parking available close to the harbour.

Kyrenia Harbour is best explored on foot, as many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. Bicycles can be rented from local shops for those who prefer cycling. Taxis are also available for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk. There are no trains in the immediate area, but local buses can connect you to surrounding neighborhoods.

Kyrenia Harbour is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas, so keep an eye on your belongings. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, exercising caution in less populated spots is recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The main hospital in Kyrenia is equipped to handle emergencies, and there are several pharmacies in the area for minor health issues. Always have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. It’s advisable to keep a list of important contacts handy.

Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing appropriate for the warm climate, but avoid overly revealing outfits. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites – women should cover their shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do give your seat to the elderly and be polite to fellow passengers. Don’t consume food or drinks on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and a polite handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and enjoy dining with locals. Don't refuse food or drink offered to you, as this may be seen as impolite.

To experience Kyrenia Harbour like a local, visit the morning fish market for fresh seafood and engage with local vendors. Try to learn a few phrases in Turkish, as locals appreciate the effort. Visit the nearby castles and historical sites early in the morning to avoid crowds. Finally, take the time to enjoy a sunset at the harbour; the views are stunning and a favorite pastime for locals.