Family visit to North Cyprus _ recommendation please

gasheadpaul


Joined: 29/07/2011
Posts: 8

Message Posted:
29/07/2011 20:44

Hi All



We will be travelling to North Cyprus for the first time in 10 days time - really looking forward to it.We are staying in the Alagadi area



Would love to here your recommendations of where to go , quiet secluded beaches and bays , best places to eat , wheres best supermarkets and any other hints or tips for our stay.



look forward to positive replys

HER INDOORS



Joined: 14/12/2007
Posts: 152

Message Posted:
29/07/2011 21:08

Take a look at this website to see the turtles hatching - http://www.cyprusturtles.org

"if you're interested in coming to one of our excavations or spending an evening/night with us, pop by our office 'The Goatshed' in Alagadi (follow the signs to Turtle Project) or give us a call on 009 0533 879 8533. "

I am not familiar with that area as I live in Bogaz (Famagusta) but have been to "Seabreeze "restaurant in Kucuk Erenkoy which is very good and near to Esentepe area.

laptarunner



Joined: 02/11/2009
Posts: 217

Message Posted:
29/07/2011 21:21

Try going to the Rocks Mon/Fri lunch time for the 28 TL business lunch 3 course, you will not be disapointed.

tomsteel


Joined: 22/06/2009
Posts: 482

Message Posted:
29/07/2011 21:24

What ages, interests, dietary likes, do you have a hire car etc etc? Such a generic enquiry is almost impossible to assist with.

mags111



Joined: 17/08/2008
Posts: 251

Message Posted:
30/07/2011 09:11

Lara beach is nice and has some shade unlike aligadi beach. Lots of nice restaurants everywhere and I would agree with msg 2 and 3, The Sea Breeze is good and so is lunch at the rocks. It depends what you fancy. Another good value day out with the family is a boat trip from the harbour. £20 each for a fab day out including lunch and children are half price I think (ask for a family discount). Go to the Sabrina boats and you will be well looked after. A trip to the Karpaz and Famagusta is always a nice day out and also the coastal road to Guzelyurt and Lefke. Stop and have a look at Mavi Kosk (Blue House) near Guzelyurt as its well worth seeing (inside one of the army camps) and have lunch in the maronite village just down the road. They serve fab kleftico!! St Helarion is always a must too and dont forget to go into the old quarter of Lefkosa. That should keep you busy!!

gasheadpaul


Joined: 29/07/2011
Posts: 8

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 08:10

thanks for the replys - as mags111 says , that'll keep us busy.



kids ages are 16 and 13 , we have a hire car for the fortnight and love snorkelling and quiet beaches .

as for dietary likes - we are prepared to try most things - especially if we dont know what they are !!!



thanks again and keep um coming !



paul

denizen



Joined: 21/08/2009
Posts: 388

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 09:14

msg 5;..... St Helarion is always a must too and dont forget to go into the old quarter of Lefkosa. That should keep you busy!!

If going to Lefkosa, why not drive into Girne, put the car in the car park and take a Dolmus. (the 8 seater cars, not a minibus)

The terminus is inside the walls. Walk back out to the main street, turn right, about 100m to the gatehouse. It's the tourist information, they'll give you a map. Take your passports if you want to cross the Green Line at Dolmaci.

Make sure you have sun hats.

negativenick


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 6023

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 09:22

alagadi - perfect location for looking at all the litter strewn on Alagadi beach and of course the 100's of tons of builder's shite dumped opp the power station...



that should give them a true taste of the place...........

gasheadpaul


Joined: 29/07/2011
Posts: 8

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 13:10

msg 8 - negativenick ;...... thanks for that - really helpful !!!!! - if you cant be positive prehaps say nothing .

simbas



Joined: 16/07/2007
Posts: 5943

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 13:17

Msg 8 . Was there any real need for that kind of post , these people have already booked their holiday , and really are looking forward to their holiday your post just might have spoiled it for them . gasheadpaul , welcome to the forum , there are lots if things to do and lovely places to go , don't listen to NN go and make your own mind up . We love it

Simbas

crofter


Joined: 16/12/2008
Posts: 1035

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 13:25

If you do visit the Mavi Kosk [Blue House] take your passports as I believe they ask to see them. Anyone know different then please tell me.



Agree Sea Breeze is an excellent Cypriot, family run with homemade food and if you like a curry there is Jashans at Bahceli.

joandjelly


Joined: 24/02/2008
Posts: 2953

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 13:34

You are right Crofter and they will keep hold of the driver's passport until you leave. Also, for information, you cannot take a RoC registered car into the camp and I think it is closed on Mondays.

gasheadpaul


Joined: 29/07/2011
Posts: 8

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 18:26

msg 10 - simbas - thanks for the reply - dont worry about what NN says - there is no way he's going to dampen our excitement for this holiday,



thanks to everyone for their suggestions - there is always room for more !



paul

simbas



Joined: 16/07/2007
Posts: 5943

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 18:39

Good for you

Simbas

dippersgirl



Joined: 04/05/2010
Posts: 795

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 18:41

Look at these pictures for the Tractor Safari including lovely newly cleaned beach!



http://www.flickr.com/photos/karpazsafari/sets/

Here is the itinary for the tractor safari:

We start at the Damla Restaurant at the Eastern corner of the village.(see village map in flickr). After a coffee we set of towards Ayios Philon and have a look at the Basilica and the lovely views.. We then head eastwards and up onto the Karpaz Mountain ridge where our first stop is the Yellow Rock/Sarı Kaya. This amazing Rock formation is like no other on the island.The question everybody asks is, did it fall from the sky or did it come up from the earth. You will have to see what you think. We have freshly made Turkish coffee there and give you time to look at the amazing colours of this rock. We then travel to the tiny mountain church of Ayios Philon of Agridhia where you can see some very hidden icons.

dippersgirl



Joined: 04/05/2010
Posts: 795

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 18:42

cont'd

Here you also have a stunning view of both coastlines and if its a clear day you can also see the mountains of Turkey. We travel further along the track, hopefully seeing birds, donkeys and other wildlife.then we find the path that will take us down to a secluded beach. Near there you can see the rock houses/tombs of Ourania, one of the ancient cities of Carpasia while Pakize and Bülent set the table for your picnic lunch. All the food is fresh and home made by Pakize. Her Bulgur Köfte are second to none!! Soft drinks and beer is included, Wine can be purchased separately.

The sea there is really lovely and there is plenty of time for a swim and sunbathe. Sometime Tassos the Greek goatherd comes with his animals and it is wonderful to see them pouring down the steep cliff to find the fresh water pool near the beach. He rides on his donkey and usually can be 'persuaded' by Bülent to come and have a cold beer and let others have a ride on the donkey!



con't

dippersgirl



Joined: 04/05/2010
Posts: 795

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 18:49

cont'd

When you are ready to move on, the journey takes you to Afendrika, another ancient site, where many people used to live, Only three Byzantine churches and many ruins remain. Then we head back to the Damla for a final drink and say our farewells.We advise you to bring comfortable footwear and your binoculars (there is a spare pair on the trailer) and your camera. We will stop anywhere you like on the journey and cold water is always available. the price is £30 per person all inclusive and you can pay on the day. The journey from Girne or Esentepe to Dipkarpaz is very easy now and you can find a map of Dipkarpaz on the flickr site, for you to be able to find the Damla Restaurant

We look forward to hear from you.

Telephone Eva on 05338206798 or Pakize on 05338756299 for your booking or if you have any questions.

philnles


Joined: 11/08/2008
Posts: 413

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 19:02

just for information you cannot go to The Blue House in a car hired from the south. They won't even let you leave the car outside and walk in.

Pipie


Joined: 05/01/2008
Posts: 5499

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 19:03

The multi complex bowling alley situated just off the new bypass is just perfect for the family the computerised electronic games floor will keep the kids amused for hours, restauraunt, juice bar and snacks what ever your choice, fully air conned of course with parking outside. Just a ten minute drive from Girne.

WOW of a place !! Hope this helps.

gasheadpaul


Joined: 29/07/2011
Posts: 8

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 22:07

tractor safari sounds like fun - will take a note of numbers and call when we arrive in TRNC.



the kids have read about the electronic games floor at the bowling alley , so they've put their request for a visit in !



thanks for all the advice



paul

nurseawful



Joined: 06/02/2009
Posts: 5934

Message Posted:
31/07/2011 22:25

Follow on from message 18



The Blue Villa (Mavi kosk) is closed on a Monday for cleaning



Chris

dippersgirl



Joined: 04/05/2010
Posts: 795

Message Posted:
01/08/2011 10:53

You won't regret it and we can discuss a family discount!!

dippersgirl



Joined: 04/05/2010
Posts: 795

Message Posted:
01/08/2011 10:53

mess 22 for gasheadpaul!!!

gasheadpaul


Joined: 29/07/2011
Posts: 8

Message Posted:
01/08/2011 18:02

thanks dippersgirl - we arrive in trnc on 10/8 so will be in touch



paul

lilaclady


Joined: 11/02/2011
Posts: 133

Message Posted:
01/08/2011 18:17

we are also going to north cyprus for first time after going to the south four times dont listen to the pessimists go with an open mind i have been told its beautiful and looking forward to it.i hope you have a lovely holiday

lilaclady


Joined: 11/02/2011
Posts: 133

Message Posted:
01/08/2011 18:20

we are also going to north cyprus for first time after going to the south four times dont listen to the pessimists go with an open mind i have been told its beautiful and looking forward to it.i hope you have a lovely holiday

teatime


Joined: 20/10/2008
Posts: 852

Message Posted:
01/08/2011 19:22

gasheadpaul. Good beaches in the Alagadi area, pleanty of good restaurants to, especially as you have a car.

Up the Rovers.

deaconblue


Joined: 28/07/2011
Posts: 5

Message Posted:
01/08/2011 20:13

Hi

We are visiting Northern Cyprus for the first time after 2 visits to the South.

Have found this topic very interesting.

Just wondering on spends - not how much but will we be able to widely use a 'pre-paid travel card loaded with Lira or would I be best just bringing a mix of sterling and lira.

We are staying in a villa and hiring a car - I expect I can use a card in the supermarkets and petrol stations but what about restaurants?

Thanks in advance and so looking forward to Saturday when we fly out.

GAUdance


Joined: 16/01/2011
Posts: 16

Message Posted:
01/08/2011 20:22

There are many events being held in Girne during the evenings of August as part of the Belediye (council) 1st Culture and Music Festival - many of the evenings are going to feature Turkish music but on 19th August from 8.30pm UB40 will be playing at the Ampitheatre in Girne (which is a fab setting overlooking the sea), tickets cost 70TL (less than £30) with Peanuts Ezic (a great restaurant next door).



I agree the turtles are a great experience & a boat trip (African Queen - first boat in the Girne harbour)......as is St Hilarion, Mavi Kosk (Blue House) and the Girne Castle. Also Salamis & famagusta is a definite worthwhile trip...have fun as it sounds like your going to be busy.....



Cyprus is a fab place....

Pipie


Joined: 05/01/2008
Posts: 5499

Message Posted:
01/08/2011 23:24

Acapulco hotel for the day, daily charge but you get the use of a fantastic pool with water flumes, mum could have nice massage and the beach/sunbeds /brollies are fantastic, I recommend the pizza for lunch wonderful setting looking out to the sea.

gasheadpaul


Joined: 29/07/2011
Posts: 8

Message Posted:
02/08/2011 12:16

Hi all



thanks for all the replies - now to try and extend holiday from 2 to 4 weeks to pack it all in !!!



roll on next week



paul

GAUdance


Joined: 16/01/2011
Posts: 16

Message Posted:
02/08/2011 14:06

deaconblue - you can use credit cards pretty much anywhere even in restaurants but be prepared that yoou'll go somewhere & can't use it just because the machine goes down in that shop - normal occurence here I'm afraid......I would bring mainly sterling as exchanges are all over here & the rate is far better than in England....

denali2007


Joined: 04/01/2008
Posts: 111

Message Posted:
02/08/2011 14:55

If you enjoy snorkelling you are situated very close to the scuba diving cebtre at Alagadi beach. Just go to the little cafe / restaurant on the beach and ask there.



I would also say don't use credit cards - always pay cash. We paid for a meal once and were surprised at the high exchange rate when we got home. Only my opinion though.

jeepsafari


Joined: 02/09/2010
Posts: 73

Message Posted:
02/08/2011 15:16

Why not try our popular Jeep safari. A trip into the mountains, learn about the history of Cyprus, see the Tank, goats, deserted villages, Mesoria plane, Lunch in Camlibel and then a visit to the mavi Kosk in the afternoon and you wont need your passport!



Suitable for all and there is a stop for a swim after lunch to cool off. We supply drinking water, lunch and entrance to Mavi Kosk.



We will even pick you up from where you are staying!



65TL per person.



see our website cyprusactive.com for reviews or seach jeep safari on cyprus44.



info@cyprusactive.com or call Richard on 05338818993 for more information.

rowefamily


Joined: 02/08/2011
Posts: 3

Message Posted:
02/08/2011 18:08

this has made great reading - wish I'd found this site earlier as we are on our way early tomorrow morning.



Does anyone know if it's possible to hire a boat anywhere - small motor boat / rib type boat we can take out to explore and swim from?



Thanks



Sue

lovingcyprus


Joined: 02/03/2007
Posts: 1272

Message Posted:
02/08/2011 18:26

Take a drive out to Kaplica, there is a nice sandy beach there and also a beach snack bar.

MoonageDaydre


Joined: 09/07/2011
Posts: 70

Message Posted:
03/08/2011 02:05

Like the name Paul!



....Don't worry there are lots of internet cafes around so you can follow the Rovers results while you're away.

teatime


Joined: 20/10/2008
Posts: 852

Message Posted:
03/08/2011 07:39

you can also look at the Kyrenia Guide on the web or pick up a free copy when you're here, lot's of restaurants etc advertised from around the area you are staying.

Wireless


Joined: 10/08/2008
Posts: 157

Message Posted:
03/08/2011 08:20

I have a house in NC and visit regularly with 3 kids - stuff we do include



a) Water sports at - Vogue beach club - jet skiing - banana - stuff like that - also understand malpas does the same now



b) for really nice beaches and and water sports famagusta - but long way from you



c) Lapthos aqua park - great day out and in my view better than aca pulco even though further to get to from where you are



d) Bowling - great night out - on the lapta road from girne



e) for a posh night out - try the house restaurant - opposite colony hotel - girne



f) go carting - use the higher power cars - Zet Track - Dikmen - Lefkosa



I'd change cash there exchange rate is often better - I was getting 2.8 in girne end of July



last time we came back we had a little packed lunch for the pre flight at larnaca - bought it all from a bakery in NC - pide - gozleme (pizza type stuff) really nice - £10 - 7 year old wants sandwich at airport - buy 1 sandwich - 2 x 0.5litres water - 3 doughnuts £2

gasheadpaul


Joined: 29/07/2011
Posts: 8

Message Posted:
03/08/2011 19:39

Hi guys/gals



once again thanks for all the suggestions - plenty here to keep us busy and catering for all tastes too !



The local dive school sounds interesting - i've completed the open water part ( although not been for about 4 years now ! ) so hopefully I can find some time away from the family and get some 'me' time.



I dont suppose anyone has any info on small boat hire as asked in msg 35 - cus' i like the sound of that !!!



msg 37 -MoonageDaydre - only the truly initiated understand the name ! - feeling positive for the new season but doubt that will last very long ! - oh the joys of lower league football .

who's your team ?



thanks again



paul

deaconblue


Joined: 28/07/2011
Posts: 5

Message Posted:
03/08/2011 20:34

Thanks for the replies on my 'spends' enquiry.

Forgive me if I sound daft - do I just take my sterling notes to the exchange 'booths' or a supermarket? Do I need to provide any ID.

Thanks again - Saturday can't come quick enough.

Irene

Glasbury


Joined: 13/08/2010
Posts: 268

Message Posted:
03/08/2011 20:45

Irene - just take your sterling to the currency exchange - simple as that no id required.

bertieboss


Joined: 22/07/2011
Posts: 149

Message Posted:
04/08/2011 01:58

Message 28.

We use "Caxton Fx" prepaid loaded with sterling and withdraw free of charge from ATMs as required. You can also use as credit card in restaurants etc.

Use Bird car rental - very reliable and helpful.

deaconblue


Joined: 28/07/2011
Posts: 5

Message Posted:
04/08/2011 12:23

Message 43

I was going to get a travelex preloaded card with sterling and use but we will probably just take sterling/lira now?

Have booked our car hire - work colleague's recommendation.

So looking forward to our holiday.

Thanks

kevin


Joined: 08/08/2009
Posts: 152

Message Posted:
04/08/2011 21:57

hoots restorat ilgaz-alsancak 00903928211029

crystallady


Joined: 16/04/2008
Posts: 103

Message Posted:
14/09/2011 18:01

Hi gasheadpaul.....let us know how you enjoyed your holiday. Did you manage to do any of the suggestions?

Rushy


Joined: 12/07/2011
Posts: 22

Message Posted:
14/09/2011 18:39

Paul - bit late reading your posting but can I assume from your "name" that you are perhaps a Bristol Rovers Gashead??? My brother is a die-hard supporterer (season ticket) although after going down last season I think he is only going to the matches he chooses this season. I am now going to say that I am a Bristol City supporter which is the team by sons, when they were young, decided to support. Hope both Bristol teams have a good season.

mikey53


Joined: 21/08/2011
Posts: 91

Message Posted:
14/09/2011 23:27

Enjoy your holiday, Glad to see that the usual amount of Poo,Pooing was blown away by the "Genuine Nice" people on the forum, good all round those saddos can just sit in doors (on their own) probably and complain on and on. Good to see tossers lost miserably as they always will eventually!! HA...