Heading to Cyprus this summer? Check the latest Cyprus travel advice
Added 04/04/2013
If you are planning on travelling to Cyprus this summer, bear in mind that the current economic situation of the country must be taken into consideration before you travel. It doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t go, but you should be prepared.
Cyprus is currently undergoing measures to ensure that its banking sector is protected, in a banking crisis that could see the country leaving the Eurozone if it doesn’t meet the requirements of a bailout from the EU and IMF. The current banking crisis affects the Greek side of the country only.
Banks in Cyprus have now re-opened after a period of closure, meaning that tourists to the country should be able to use cashpoints and payment cards with no problems. However, it has been advised that a maximum of €1,000 per person may be taken out of the country, and tourists have been warned to ensure that they have a variety of payment options at their disposal.
Various sources have reported that some local banks have restricted ATM withdrawals to a €100 limit, so ensure that you travel with some cash for emergencies. UK banks operating within Cyprus, however, should not have any withdrawal limits in place.
While taking a large number of Euros into the country in case of problems may seem like a good idea, those travelling to Cyprus should be warned that this can pose problems in itself. Large amounts of cash will have a higher risk of being stolen, so ensure that you take care of it by keeping it in a locked in a safe.
Many businesses - particularly smaller shops, bars and restaurants - are now no longer accepting debit cards, credit cards of cheques as forms of payment, preferring cash for all transactions. You should also check before travelling that your accommodation provider will still take cards as payment if you haven’t paid in advance.
Before you travel check the latest advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, they are publishing up to date information about the situation with banks and card payments in Cyprus.
