Introducing Nicosia's best spots!

🇨🇾Nicosia

Cyprus, located in the Mediterranean Sea, is a unique divided nation, with the north dominated by Turkish and the south by Greek.

Once you cross the "Green Line" (buffer zone) that separates the north and south, the language and currency change.

I was struck by the feeling that, even though I was in this country, I had entered a different one.

The climate was warm, the sea was blue, and the atmosphere was cheerful,
and somehow reminded me of Malta.

Experience the reality of a divided nation 🏛️🚧
📍The capital, Nicosia 🕌🏛️

The world's only "divided capital,"
with the south (Greek) and north (Turkish) separated by a UN buffer zone.
South side: Euro (€) / Greek 🇬🇷
North side: Turkish Lira (₺) / Turkish 🇹🇷
This is one of the few places where you can cross the border on foot, and passport control is required.
It was amazing how the atmosphere changed so dramatically just by moving a few meters!

📍 Ledra Street 🛍️

This is the downtown area on the south side of Nicosia, a bustling street lined with cafes and shops.
The "border checkpoint" is located in the middle of this street, and you can cross to the north side on foot.
The moment you cross the border, the signage, food culture, and even the atmosphere of the buildings change completely!

📍 Lefkoşa (North Cyprus Nicosia side) 🏰

The center of Turkish Cypriotism.
The Old Town is also home to the Selimiye Mosque, a unique building that was converted from a Gothic cathedral into a mosque.
Prices are cheaper than in the south, and the local atmosphere remains.

📍 Buffer Zone🚧

This UN-managed no-man's land runs through the middle of the Old Town.
Abandoned buildings and abandoned cars remain, reflecting the history of division.
Armed soldiers patrolled some areas, creating a tense atmosphere.

Cyprus Nature & Resorts🌊🏝️
📍 Larnaca🌅

A resort city in southern Cyprus facing the Mediterranean Sea.
Finikoudes Beach
is a tropical-style area lined with palm trees along the coast.
The town center is home to the Church of Saint Lazarus,
a place where history and beach resorts blend together.

📍 Ayia Napa🏖️

Cyprus's premier party island and beach resort!
The crystal-clear waters of Nissi Beach are a Mediterranean paradise.
In the summer, tourists from all over Europe flock here, and the nightlife is vibrant.

📍 Troodos Mountains⛰️

This highland area of Cyprus is perfect for skiing in the winter.
The Troodos Monasteries (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) are dotted with churches featuring beautiful Byzantine frescoes.

Cypriot Cuisine🍽️
🥩 Sheftalia

Greek sausage-style meatballs.
Grilled herb-spiced lamb or pork served with pita bread.

🐟 Halloumi Cheese

This cheese originated in Cyprus, and when grilled it develops a unique texture.
It's commonly served in salads or pita sandwiches.

🍷 Commandaria

One of the world's oldest wines!
A sweet wine from Cyprus with a history dating back over 3,000 years.

🍢 Keftes

Spicy meatballs commonly found in Turkish areas.
The cumin and coriander added a touch of exotic flavor.

Impressions of Cyprus & Summary
✅ It was a strange experience, like "two countries within a country."
✅ It was refreshing to see the language, currency, and culture change the moment you cross the border on foot!
✅ The warm Mediterranean climate and blue sea reminded me of Malta.
✅ History, beach resorts, and the reality of a divided country... a unique country that's packed with it all!

Cyprus is a country with a rare combination of "resorts, history, and political tension,"
and just visiting it was a place where I could see the world from different perspectives.

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