Laiki Geitonia: The Heartbeat of Old Nicosia

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Yia sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ochi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είσαι;
  [Pos ise;]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;
  [Kala. Esi;]
• 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 menu, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Ygeia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosou, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε γιατρό!
  [Kaleste giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hthi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• 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 miosete 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 (10)
  [Misi (10)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dyo]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 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...);]

Laiki Geitonia's history can be traced back to the Ottoman period, when it began to develop as a residential area. The architecture of the neighborhood reflects typical Ottoman influences, with narrow streets and traditional houses adorned with wooden balconies. During this time, the area became known for its vibrant marketplace, where locals gathered to buy and sell goods, establishing a sense of community.

The British occupation of Cyprus from 1878 to 1960 brought significant changes to Laiki Geitonia. The British administration initiated urban planning efforts, which led to the preservation of many historic buildings. The neighborhood became a focal point for cultural and social activities, with the establishment of cafes and shops that catered to both locals and expatriates. This period saw a blending of local Cypriot culture with British colonial influences, shaping the community's identity.

The Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 had a profound impact on Laiki Geitonia and the city of Nicosia as a whole. The division of the city created a stark contrast between the two sides, leading to the abandonment of many homes and businesses in the area. However, Laiki Geitonia remained a symbol of resilience, with efforts made to preserve its heritage and promote intercommunal dialogue in the face of adversity.

In the years following the division, Laiki Geitonia underwent a significant restoration process aimed at revitalizing the neighborhood. The government and various organizations worked together to restore the area’s unique architecture and promote it as a cultural hub. Today, Laiki Geitonia is known for its vibrant arts scene, traditional crafts, and local cuisine, attracting both tourists and locals who seek to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Nicosia.

Today, Laiki Geitonia serves as a testament to Nicosia’s historical and cultural evolution. The neighborhood features a blend of traditional and contemporary influences, with art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes lining its charming streets. Events and festivals often take place in the area, celebrating Cypriot culture and heritage, making it a lively destination for visitors exploring the rich history of the city.

Laiki Geitonia is centrally located in Nicosia, easily accessible from various neighbourhoods. From the Ledra Street border crossing, you can walk to Laiki Geitonia in about 10 minutes. If coming from the Old City, follow the signs towards the city center. Public buses also connect different neighbourhoods to the city center, with stops near Laiki Geitonia.

Laiki Geitonia is best explored on foot, as it is a pedestrian-friendly area filled with narrow, winding streets. There are no trains in the immediate vicinity, but local buses operate throughout Nicosia. Bicycles can be rented from various shops, and cycling is a pleasant way to navigate the area. Taxis are also available for longer distances or if you're tired from walking.

Laiki Geitonia is generally safe for tourists, but it is always wise to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep your belongings secure. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty theft can occur in crowded spots, so be cautious of your surroundings, especially in busy markets or during events.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or ambulance services. Local hospitals are available for medical emergencies, and pharmacies can provide assistance for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies and to keep copies of important documents accessible.

Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. It’s advisable to cover your shoulders and knees when entering places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to the elderly and disabled. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake, and when meeting someone for the first time, maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and be open to sharing a meal with locals. Don't refuse food offered to you, as it can be seen as disrespectful.

To experience Laiki Geitonia like a local, start your day with a coffee at one of the traditional cafes and engage with the locals. Explore the small artisan shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs. For a true local experience, try the street food, especially the souvlaki. Visit during the afternoon when the area is alive with street performers and local artisans showcasing their work.