North Cyprus is a beautiful country and still largely underdeveloped. English is widely spoken, and the Turkish Cypriot people are renowned for their generous hospitality. When out shopping or enjoying a meal, you are made to feel particularly welcome. If you like peace and solitude yet enjoy the trappings of modern life, North Cyprus cannot be beaten. The exotic cuisine of Cyprus reflects its history and maritime associations. Fantastic quality and value can be found in local restaurants and bars, and Turkish Cypriot cooking is a fascinating blend of East and West. Evening meals begin with a sumptuous "meze" - hors d'oeuvres consisting of as a many as 20 small dishes - before the main course. Close to Sweet Homes Villa are several large turtle beaches, and a little further afield is the historic port and harbour of Kyrenia. The island has a great historical past, and there are historic sights dotted all over the island. If you want to take a look at the modern Nicosia, the border is only 35 km from the villa, and is full of shops such as M & S, Next etc.

There are numerous sandy beaches, water sport activities and boat trips on offer. Horse riding, hiking and fishing offer alternative options.  The unique climate of Cyprus offers year-round opportunities for a perfect holiday, with over 300 days of sunshine every year. Rainfall is concentrated in December & January, and the average sea temperature is above 20 degrees C for more than half the year. The coastline of North Cyprus offers some of the finest and safest bathing areas in the Mediterranean, and the crystal clear waters of the eastern Mediterranean are wonderful for swimming, diving, snorkelling, sailing and water-skiing. The picturesque ancient port of Girne is on the north coast, and Gazimagosa is in the east. Nearer the coast, most activity is concentrated along the coast road. A legacy from the British colonial days means that traffic drives on the left. Inland, behind the rocky Girne range and the imposing Five Finger Mountain, stretches the huge fertile Mesaoria plain, Ercan airport and the island's capital, Lefkosa.

Along the east coast lie the ancient fortified city of Gazimagosa and the nearby ruins of Salamis. East of Kyrenia are Diana, Lara and Alagadi beaches, all easily accessible by car. The Escape Beach (small charge made) in Alsancak (west of Kyrenia) is one of the safest beaches close to Kyrenia. There are many hotels with private bays which permit non-residents to use them for a small fee. Many quiet beaches are found on the Karpas Peninsula. Sailing, water skiing, power boat, banana and ringo rides can be found at Dolphin Water sports at Diana Beach at the Catalkoy turning off the coast road, by the Coca Cola Depot on the left side of the road. Check with Tourist Information for more details. If you fancy cruising around the Med, being waited on, a fresh fish lunch, swimming from the boat, then stroll down to Kyrenia harbour and book one of 20 boats dealing in daily trips. There are also tours that depart from the port in Famagusta and sail along the Karpaz peninsula. Regular ferry services go from Kyrenia and Famagusta to towns on the southern coast of Turkey, namely Mersin, Antalya and Tasucu. Northern Cyprus has a National Park in the Karpaz Peninsula. Find birds, wild donkeys, turtles, rare flora and rarely-visited beaches. Sightseeing tours are available. The Tourist Information Office at the Harbour will have more information. Sea turtle watching. There are a number of beaches along the northern coast where Loggerhead and Green Turtles lay their eggs in the sand between June and October. If you wish to join a group to watch them, or to actively help out in the task of helping to protect them, please visit the Tourist Information office. Octopus Aqua Park in Catalkoy, is 4 km outside Kyrenia. Children can climb, swing, slide and bounce on watery and dry apparatus - parents can relax in the pool bar! There are two karting tracks, one in the Girne area and another near Lefkosa. ‘Northern Heights’ of Kyrenia can arrange exciting Quad Biking Tours. Must see! - Kyrenia Castle, St. Hilarion Castle, Bellapais Abbey, Roman remains at Salamis and Soli Vouni.