Welcome to Cyprus Aimis Info Pack - AIMIS HOME - AIMIS€¦ · AIMIS, the American Institute of Minimally Invasive Surgery, is a world leading Medical Center of Excellence, at the

Aimis Info PackWelcome to Cyprus

PATIENT INDUCTION AND ORIENTATION MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY - SPINAL CORD INJURIES

On behalf of AIMIS it is a pleasure to welcome you to Cyprus. We hope that you had a good flight and we wish you and your loved ones accompanying you, a pleasant stay and a speedy recovery.

In this Patient Induction & Orientation pack, you will find all necessary information to facilitate your stay and experience with us.

The Medical and the Patient Management teams, as well as the Concierge Representative assigned to you are at your disposal and dedicated to make you feel at ease, at home and resolve any concerns you may have.

We are available 24/7.

Your concierge representative and our AIMIS doctor will visit you daily during your entire stay.

Please keep this pack with you during your stay in Cyprus and let us assist you with everything else you may require!

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Welcome

Aimis IntroductionAIMIS, the American Institute of Minimally Invasive Surgery, is a world leading Medical Center of Excellence, at the

forefront of Medicine in Spine & Robotics, bringing together the best American based and international surgeons.

AIMIS’s vision is to offer and transfer world class US surgical advancements and technologies in minimally invasive

surgery and related treatments to the world and achieve worldwide recognition as the leading medical Center of Ex-

cellence in Minimally Invasive Surgery in Spine and Robotics.

AIMIS surgeons are the pioneers, inventors and leading trainers and proctors in their respective fields. They perform

the most advanced minimally invasive surgeries and other treatments for the overall benefit of the patient.

With AIMIS SPINE we lead in

- Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery spine technologies - Spinal cord injuries - Autologous stem cell treatments- Tarlov & meningeal cysts

With AIMIS ROBOTICS we excel in many MIS specialties including urology, gynecology, GI, transplant, hepatobiliary, thoracic, hernias, general oncology, bariatric and other

Our competitive advantages are:

- Using the next frontier for Minimally Invasive Robotic Surgery, the daVinci Xi 4 Arms with laser guidance, florescence and other capabilities. - The daVinci Xi 4 Arm 3D HD Robot enables the Surgeon to operate with precision, dexterity, enhanced vision and control- Provide the latest surgical advancements & techniques in Minimally Invasive Robotic surgery- Offering the patient an unprecedented level of healthcare

MIS Benefits

- Safety, accuracy, vision, precision- Minimal surgical scars, better aesthetic results- Less post-operative pain- Little or no blood loss- Minimal body trauma- Fewer complications- Short hospitalization- Faster return to daily activities/ Shorter recovery time- Minimal risk of infections

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Aimis Family Medical Department

WILLIAMSMITH M.D.

Dr.

Professor and Chief of Neurosurgery at the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada. Chairman of AIMIS Spine Plc.

Globally established as a “trainer of trainers”, Dr. Smith is instrumental in the continued development of MIS spine techniques and technologies, offering his specialized expertise to both his patients and the industry.

Dr. Smith serves as the Chairman of AIMIS Spine Plc. as well as the Director of Performance Improvement for the Western Regional Center for Brain & Spine Surgery and the Chief of Neurosurgery for the University Medical Center, Las Vegas, Nevada.

He has also served academic appointments with Desert Springs Hospital, Las Vegas, NV (Chief of Neurosurgery, Director of Spinal Center); Mountain View Hospital, Las Vegas, NV (Chief of Neurosurgery); Veterans Administration Medical Center, The University of Arizona (Action Section Chief); and The University of Arizona (Assistant Professor of Clinical Surgery).

He performed his Residency in Neurological Surgery with Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC. He earned his doctorate of medicine and bachelors of science degree from Georgetown University.

Dr. Smith is a certified Diplomat of The American Board of Neurological Surgery and licensed in the states of Nevada and Arizona. He is a member of numerous professional associations, including the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, American Academy of Spine Physicians, American Medical Association, North American Spine Society and the Hydrocephalus Association. In addition to his civic involvement, Dr. Smith is well published and has been invited to conduct neurosurgery presentations throughout the United States, Mexico, Europe & Asia.


EYALBEHRBALK M.D.

Dr.

Dr Eyal Behrbalk is a leading expert in the field of spine surgery and the Chief of Orthopedics and Spine at Hillel Yafe Hospital in Israel.

Dr Behrbalk is a UK trained surgeon where he worked and obtained extensive experience in all types of spine surgeries of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar column. He also trained in minimally invasive spine techniques including endoscopic procedures along the best US and other international surgeons in the field. Dr Behrbalk’s surgical preference is to employ minimally invasive and motion preserving technologies and procedures as opposed to large and classical/open surgical exposures, applying the latest and technologically advanced and cutting edge technologies. He is a very dedicated, patient centered and high service oriented medical professional. He is a member of AIMIS, responsible for all spine surgery follow-ups in Israel.


ANDREASCHRISTOPOULOS M.D.

Neurosurgeon

Dr Andreas graduated from the National & Kapodistrian University of Athens in 1974 with a Medical degree. He gained his Specialisation in Neurosurgery at the University of Athens in 1995. Dr. Christopoulos’ work experience was as Director of the Neurosurgery & Spinal Injury Department at the General Hospital of Nicosia. He was also assigned the responsibilities of the ICU patients there. Dr. Andreas was appointed Honorary Professor at the University of Nicosia, St. George’s Medical School of London based on his teaching contribution to their medical program.

Dr.

Dr. Periklis Zavridis studied medicine at the Semmelweis University of Budapest, Hungary, where he received his Doctors Degree in September 2005. In September 2012, he acquired the specialty of Anaesthesiology, after being an intern at the Anaesthesiology Department of the General Hospital of Dramas (town in North Greece), and then at the Anaesthesiology Department of the Hippocrates General Hospital in Athens. During his specialty, he was trained for three months at the Anaesthesiology Department of the St. Pierre Hospital of Brussels. Along with the specialty he received his Master in Science, specialising in Pain Management (MSc Pain Management), at Leicester University of England, and Postgraduate diploma at the Emergency pre-hospital medicine at the National Emergency Department (EKAB), Athens.


PERIKLISZAVRIDIS M.D., MSc

Dr.

Anesthesiologist and Pain Management


NINADIAMANTIDESAdministration and Patient Management Executive

MAYASARIDOUNurse

GEORGEPAPADIKOSHead of Nursing Department

ACHILLEASTRICHIASOperationsManager

IRENEDAOUDPatient Management Supervisor

NITZANHARDUFBusiness Development Manager

ODYSSEIAODYSSEOSPatient Management Executive

International Patient Management - Key Personnel


“Open surgery” vs minimally invasive surgery

Minimally Invasive SurgeryWhen spine problems develop due to injury, aging, wear and tear or deformity, treatment options should focus on the actual source of the problem with the least amount of interruption to a patient’s life. Medication, physical therapy, bracing or lifestyle changes may successfully treat problems caused by slipped discs, slipped vertebrae or curvature of the spine. For many people, though, surgery may be the best option to treat pain or deformity.

The most beneficial aspect of traditional open surgery is the ability to see and access the spine easily. This type of surgery, however, involves long incisions, cutting and removal of muscle from the spine, and considerable post-surgical pain. Due to the large incisions and significant damage to the muscle, open surgery patients may experience long hospital stays, long recovery periods, large scarring and pain that make this type of surgery daunting and exhaustive. Developing procedures that significantly reduce these effects through minimally invasive methods may allow patients to return to regular, active lives with less interruption and pain.

Minimal invasive spine (MIS) procedures allow the surgeon to perform conventional and advanced spine surgery techniques through a small incision, with minimally disruptive effects on surrounding tissues and muscles, producing results that exceed by far the traditional open approaches.

The incision is usually 1/10 the size of the underlying mass. The minimally disruptive microsurgery procedures we perform are usually on “a day surgery” basis (same day release) and certainly always with the shortest hospitalization time possible. They result in less operative trauma, less pain and scarring, no loss of blood, reduces the incidence of post surgical complications and speeds up recovery.

Which are the minimally invasive surgery benefits?- Small incisions- Minimal surgical scars- Little or no blood loss- Reduced trauma to the body- Less post-operative pain- Fewer complications- Shorter hospitalization, Faster return to daily activities- Quicker recovery time- Reduced risk of infections

The field of minimally invasive spine surgery continues to grow, and most conditions today can be treated with some form of minimally invasive surgery.

For instance: The patient would have a better outcome with a total disc replacement (TDR) rather than with fusion, since need for additional surgery after a fusion at 10 years is as high as 20% whereas with a TDR the risk is only 5%. Moreover, evidence based literature and recent data are showing a better outcome in younger patients when undergoing a total disc replacement when compared to fusion. Long-term results of a laterally placed TDR device demonstrate maintenance of pain relief and functional improvement. The benefits of this technique—minimal morbidity, avoiding mobilization of the great vessels, preserving the Anterior longitudinal ligament, biomechanically stable orientation and broader revision options - suggest a promising new direction for TDR procedures.

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Understanding who suffers

Potential signs and symptoms

Spinal cord injuriesA spinal cord injury is damage to any part of the spinal cord that cause temporary or permanent changes in its function, symptoms may include loss of muscle fuction, sensation and other body functions below the site of the injury.

- 12,500 new SCI cases each year in the US- 276,000 Americans suffering from SCI- 333,000 Europeans suffering from SCI- 52% of SCI individuals are considered paraplegic and 47% quadriplegic- 82% are male.- 38% of injuries are caused by vehicle crashes- Average age of injury is 42 years old

These changes or symptoms of such an injury translate into loss of muscle function, sensation, or autonomic function in parts of the body served by the spinal cord below the level of the injury.

- Complete spinal injury is termed to describe cases where all functions below the injured area are lost, whether or not the spinal cord is severed.- Incomplete spinal cord injury is termed to describe cases where there is preservation of motor or sensory function below the level of injury in the spinal cord.- Patients with severe neurologic deficits may be candidates for this leading edge, evolving technology of AIMIS stem cell transplantation.


Examinations usually required

Proposing treatment and why aimis

These tests may include:

Computerized tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan may provide a better look at abnormalities seen on an X-ray. This scan uses computers to form a series of cross-sectional images that can define bone, disk and other problems.

X-rays: Medical personnel typically order these tests on people who are suspected of having a spinal cord injury after trauma. X-rays can reveal vertebral (spinal column) problems, tumors, fractures or degenerative changes in the spine.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce computer-generated images. This test is very helpful for looking at the spinal cord and identifying herniated disks, blood clots or other masses that may be compressing the spinal cord.After an initial injury, when some of the swelling may have subsided, a doctor will normally conduct a neurological exam to determine the level and completeness of your injury. This involves testing muscle strength and the ability to sense light.

AIMIS performs a large number of procedures for this disease area including:

- Minimal Invasive Decompression (MID) and Stabilization Surgeries (MIS)- Autologous Stem Cells- NeurolysisAIMIS is a leading center in the development and implementation of cellular repair of spinal cord injuries.One of AIMIS’ primary goals is the compassionate treatment of patients with severe spinal cord injuries. Using an FDA patented technique of harvesting patients’ own stem cells, AIMIS’ skilled team of neurosurgeons and ancillary professionals has one of the leading experiences in the world of treating both spinal cord injury and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine.

Useful List of Contact Numbers

Achilleas TrichiasNitzan HardufIrene DaoudOdysseia OdysseosNina DiamantidesGeorge PapadikosMaya SaridouVIP Taxi Services (Harry)

AIMIS Team

96 848 46696 848 44496 848 46095 114 60899 469 77796 533 33296 338 64896 777 878

Telephone no.

English, GreekEnglish, HebrewEnglish, Greek, Kurdish, ArabicEnglish, Greek, Russian, Spanish, BulgarianEnglish, GreekEnglish, GreekEnglish, Greek, Russian, TurkishEnglish, Greek, Russian,

Speaking Languages

AIMIS’ AMC Offices (Nicosia)AIMIS’ Headoffices (Limassol)

AIMIS Team2247660025873387

Telephone no.

L o c a l M o b i l e / C e l l P h o n e U s eAIMIS provides all patients upon arrival with a local Cyprus mobile/cell phone to make communication as easy as possible. The cell phone is charged with 10euros, which can be used to call AIMIS concierge representatives or anyone else desired. AIMIS concierge representatives’ phone numbers are saved in phone’s memory to make it easier for the patient to contact. Please note that the phone can be recharged by the patient (on patient’s expenses) as many times as desired.

The country code in order to receive a phone call is - 0035 7 - then followed by your cell phone number written on the top of your cell phone pack. Please note that there is no charge for incoming calls.It is advisable that the accompanying person keeps the cell phone, so that the patient will not be distracted by incoming calls.

Please keep the AIMIS mobile phone with you at all times, so we can easily stay in contact Your concierge representative will demonstrate cell phone’s use in detail, before handing it to you.

Phones have to be returned before departing from Cyprus



A m e r i c a n M e d i c a l C e n t e r ( A M C ) F a c i l i t i e s I n f o r m a t i o n a n d M a n u a l

The American Medical Center (AMC) is a state of the art health care facility that offers a wide range of medical services. It was founded in 1999 as the first private hospital of its type in Cyprus and since 2001 it has maintained an agreement with the Ministry of Health to accept and treat state – referred patients. In 2004 the American Heart Institute was bestowed with the ISO 9001:2000 Certificate by the TUV Rheinland/Germany, relating to the quality management system for the patient admission, treatment and discharge processes. The Certificate has been successfully maintained by annual audits.

In 2011, the Institute moved to its new premises and started offering a variety of health services; hence the ISO 9001:2008 has been amended to cover the whole facility. The scope of the Certificate now covers the following processes and services: patient admission, diagnostic, treatment, discharge processes and services offered by the hospital to the joining physicians.

American Medical Center Room AmenitiesEach patient has his own individual multimedia cockpit that will provide access to telephone, nurse call and personal entertainment, being able to choose from a variety of educational and other DVD’s. Additionally, the patient has the flexibility to order the menu of their choice on line from the high-end cafeteria-catering service on the premises.


AMC Library

Free Wi-Fi Internet Access

The modern, refined, well – designed library, offers visitors a quiet, distraction – free zone where they can choose to read from a variety of books. The library can also boast amazing group study spaces, with wireless and network connections, ideal for medical students. A view of the main waiting area, gives you the chance to enjoy the historical artifacts, artwork and indoor garden that adorn the Center.

Please note that there is free internet access in all public areasof the American Medical Center

AMC Café / RestaurantAMC specialized chefs and personnel are providing food services on a daily basis to the patients and families. From breakfast to afternoon tea and the gastronomical dinner, food items are very creative and provided with excellent service. The cafeteria is becoming a focal meeting point for business luncheons and its premises are open to the non-resident public as well, daily from 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and on Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. VISA, MasterCard and American Express are accepted.


Admission, Pre-operational Consultations, Examinations & SurgeryMedical Matters

The AIMIS concierge representative, assigned to you, will notify you on all relevant matters including the exact medical schedule, admission to the hospital, pre-operational consultations and examinations, surgery and expected discharge from the hospital.

On the day of your admission, the AIMIS representative will wait for you at the hospital reception and will take you directly to your assigned hospital room, where he/she will brief you and demonstrate the usage of any equipment in your room.

Also, the AIMIS representative will guide you through your pre-operational examinations without having to wait in long queues or lounges.

You will also have pre-operational consultations with the AIMIS physician and anesthesiologist.

Your AIMIS surgeon and the responsible medical person will also see you and discuss with you details of the surgery and post-operational follow up.

For the actual surgery, the AIMIS medical staff will guide you to the operational room, while the AIMIS Concierge Representative will make sure that your accompanying person is comfortable, relaxed, assured and updated.

After your surgery, your AIMIS representative will wait for you in your hospital room to make sure you and your accompanying person have all you need.

Please note that although the Hospital staff is highly efficient and always at your disposal, the AIMIS Family will be available 24hours a day to further support you and make sure your experience is absolutely reassuring.

Discharge

Post-Operation Doctor Follow ups

Medication

For your hospital discharge, the AIMIS Doctor will provide you with all the necessary instructions/ post op orders and will also provide you with a prescription for all necessary medication.

A driver will be readily available to transfer you from the hospital to your designated hotel, where your AIMIS representative will be expecting you, to assist you there with all arrangements.

Every single day during your stay at the hotel, the AIMIS physician will visit you on prearranged times to monitor your progress and advise accordingly.

Where appropriate, a physiotherapist will be assigned to you for your everyday physiotherapy and exercise, depending on surgeon’s prescription and instructions.

The AIMIS physician will provide you with a prescription for medication on your discharge.The AIMIS Physician will also provide you with all instructions required.


Rehabilitation & ConciergeWe have patients who travel from all over the world to have their Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery with us here, at AIMIS Spine. Our medical and patient management services personnel provide expert assistance in all aspects including scheduling treatment, offering travel advice, and providing information about accommodation and local amenities.AIMIS Spine offers all patients and their accompanying person(s) the benefit of a very personalized VIP concierge service. We could take care of all the arrangements for your accommodation in Europe, Cyprus. With regards to your hotel accommodation stay in Cyprus Please find below the average summary corporate rates with the following hotels (analytical prices available and at our disposal).You are responsible to choose and pay the hotel yourself.Please feel free to search the internet and contact the hotel yourself to seek more economical prices.We, as Aimis have made arrangements with our medical and admin members to visit the below hotels daily.Should you wish to make other accommodation arrangements you must coordinate and be at the designated places for the post op care during stay in Cyprus. Twin room average prices throughout the year on Full Board basisEden Rehabilitation Resort: 120€ (10 min from the airport )St Raphael (5*): 220€ (Sea front 5* hotel in Limassol )Miramare (4*): 200€ (Sea front 4* hotel in Limassol ) With regards to EDEN resort and concerning Spinal cord Injury and other similar needs patients, AIMIS is cooperating with this special rehabilitation resort which is designed and set up to cater for these patients’ special needs with medical, nursing, physio and other staff.EDEN’s strategic alliance with AIMIS Healthcare Group gives patients the opportunity to stay in a resort-style setting for their personalized rehabilitation program where they can enjoy resort type services and conveniences, outstanding amenities and activities of a top-class facility with the assurances of a world class healthcare provider. AIMIS EDEN has a complete setup of experienced medical personnel with expertise in their particular area of rehabilitation including a resident General Physician, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Nutritionist and a Psychologist. A 24/7 medical and nursing care covering any medical need of our patients is AIMIS commitment on the way to full rehabilitation after a surgical intervention. Importance of Post-Operative Rehabilitation:Following surgery, bones, muscles and soft tissues undergo a period healing. The success of this is heavily influenced by physical therapy recommendations to ensure a complete and speedy recovery. This post-operative rehabilitation program, provided by AIMIS EDEN is vital to stimulate body tissue, joint and cartilage recovery, something provided in the AIMIS EDEN post-surgery physical therapy package. This will help:- Prevent blood clots by helping proper blood circulation after surgery- Improve muscle strength, posture and balance of the body- Provide effective self – care training to the patient to safely get out of bed, shower, climb stairs, etc- Reduce pain by equipping you with pain control and manual therapy techniques- Reduce the risk of post – operative pulmonary complications (PCCs) In relation to your transfersAimis is responsible to pick up the patient on arrival and transfer both patient and accompanying to any of the above hotels/ resorts.In addition, Aimis is responsible to transfer the patient for their pre ops and thereafter both ways to and from the hospital on admission and discharge as well as from hotel to airport on the last day of departure.Moreover, Aimis is arranging 1 daily bus transfer to and from the hospital for the accompanying persons during patients’ hospitalization. In summary, a unique and VIP personalized concierge practices with: Outstanding services from the moment the patient decides to travel to Cyprus by taking every detail into account.A dedicated 24h personal care with dedicated personnel who accompany the patients to ensure that their experience is reassuring, seamless, unforgettable and most comfortable throughout their stay in Cyprus and the various medical treatment phases. Aimed to alleviate any concerns and worries regarding the stay and the medical treatment. This service continues post operatively and when discharged at your chosen accommodation, offering the patient again a reassuring but enjoyable and relaxing recuperation at a luxury resort where the AIMIS Medical and Concierge personnel monitor the patient on a daily basis, ensuring the healing process is smooth and “trouble free” until the patient is deemed “fit to fly”.


Climate and Weather

Average Temperatures

General Information on Cyprus

Cyprus enjoys an intense Mediterranean climate of hot dry summers starting in mid-May and lasting until mid-September and rainy, quite mild winters from November to mid-March. Spring and autumn are effectively short intervals in between, characterized by smooth weather. With almost year-round clear skies and sunshine, daylight length ranges from 9.8 hours in December to 14.5 hours in June.

In broad lines, Cyprus’s climate is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. There is a significant seasonal difference between mid-summer and mid-winter temperatures that ranges from 18° C inland to about 14° C on the coast. The difference in daily maximum and night minimum temperatures is also quite significant. In winter they range from 8° to 10° C on the lowlands and 5°to 6° C on the mountains and in summer from 16° C on the central plain and 9°to 12° C elsewhere.

Daily temperatures during the hottest months of July and August, range between 29° C on the central plain and 22° C on the Troodos Mountains. The average maximum temperatures for these two months range between 36° C and 27° C. In January, the coolest month, the indicative daily temperature is 10° C on the central plain and 3° C on the higher parts of the Troodos Mountains while the average minimum temperatures are 5° C and 0° C.

Sea TemperaturesThe temperature in the open sea hovers above 22° C from June to November, climbing to 27° C in August. Even during the three coolest months of January to March, average sea temperature is an acceptable 16° or 17° C. Near the coast, the temperature of water three or four meters deep is similar to that of the open sea, ranging from 15° to 17°C in February and from 23° to 28° C in August. There are no significant daily fluctuations in sea water temperatures, except in very shallow waters less than one meter deep.

Air HumidityDuring the days in winter and at night throughout the year, humidity ranges from average to slightly low (65% - 40%). During summer it is very low near midday, ranging from 15% to 30% on the central plain. Fog is rare and typically occurs in early morning. Visibility is normally very good or excellent. There is an exception over a few days in spring when the atmosphere is very hazy due to dust from the Arabian and African deserts.

SunshineCyprus enjoys a very sunny climate compared with most countries with 11.5 hours of bright sunshine per day over the six summer months. Even during the months of December and January, there is usually 5.5 hours of sunshine.

W i n d sWinds over the island are relatively variable in direction and strength depending on the elevation of the land and local temperatures.

C l o t h i n g d u r i n g D i f f e r e n t S e a s o n sClothing requirements vary, depending on the length and the period of your visit. During April and May, days are pleasantly warm, but temperatures may drop at night. Spring and summer apparel and long-sleeved tops or light jackets for the evenings are recommended. From June to the end of August, very light summer clothing is a must. September to October see quite a few warm days and cool evenings. Light apparel for the day and long sleeves for the evenings in October is recommended. November has pleasantly warm days that can be enjoyed in jumpers and light jackets.

December and January will be the only winter you will get, even though it feels more like autumn for most visitors. It may rain occasionally, yet the promise of glorious sunshine is still there. Winter clothing is necessary, but not heavy coats. The possibility of fairly warm days is always there during February, as is the occasional rainfall. Mid-day time temperatures are the harbingers of spring, but it can get quite cold in the evenings and winter apparel will be needed. Winter wear will also be appropriate during March with its moderate but sometimes unpredictable weather inviting you to enjoy Cyprus nature at its best.


Travelling Documents

Legal Points of Entry

What the disabled visitor needs to know about Cyprus

Entry Requirements

Travelling to Cyprus is very easy. The documentation required varies, depending on your nationality. A valid passport is required for a stay of up to 90 days for all bonafide tourists except citizens of European Union countries. For Nationals from Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway who may enter Cyprus with their national identity card providing it bears a photo. Some non-EU third country nationals require a visa. Further detailed information can be obtained from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The legal ports of entry into the Republic of Cyprus are the airports of Larnaka (Larnaca) and Pafos (Paphos) and the ports of Larnaka (Larnaca), Lemesos (Limassol), Latsi and Pafos (Paphos), which are situated in the area under the effective control of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus. Entry into the territory of the Republic of Cyprus via any other port or airport in which the Government of the Republic does not exercise effective control (Turkish occupied areas) is illegal.

A number of facilities are available to visitors with special access needs who wish to visit Cyprus.

In 2007, the Cyprus Parliament approved and introduced the use of the European Blue Badge for parking at designated places for the disabled, available all over the island, both in public roads and public parking areas. The authority responsible for issuing the Blue Badge is the Service for the Care and Rehabilitation of the Disabled, part of the Ministry of Labor and Social Insurance. It can be contacted at +357 22 406 406 email: [email protected]

Transportation around the island can be arranged if prior notice is given to the transport companies. Special buses are also available with low gradient ramps, safety belts and a/c and so are special taxis that may carry a person who is sitting in a wheelchair.


Local Time

Working Hours

Eating Hours

Time & Working Hours

Cyprus Time is GMT +2.

Public service operating hours are flexible all year round. Operating days are from Monday to Friday starting between 07:30 - 08:30 and closing between 15:00 - 16:00. Private sector working hours are 08:00 - 13:00, 15:00 - 18:00 Monday to Friday for the period September 15th - May 31st and 08:00 - 13:00, 16:00 - 19:00 Monday to Friday, for the period June 1st - September 14th.

Shop opening times vary depending on their type and location, though shops normally open between 07:00 and 09:00. During the period November 1st - March 31st shops close at 19:30 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, at 15:00 on Wednesday, and at 19:00 on Saturday. For the period April 1st – October 31st shops close at 20:00 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, at 15:00 on Wednesday and, at 19:30 on Saturday. During the period June 15th – August 31st there is an optional three-hour afternoon break from14:00 - 17:00.

Special shopping hours apply for Christmas and Easter. From December 1st to December 31st, shops may remain open until 20:00 throughout the week, but must close by 18:00 on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Shops can also remain open until 20:00 10 days before Easter Sunday but must close by 18:00 on Good Friday.

Breakfast is usually served between 07:00 and 10:00 in the morning. Lunch is served in restaurants between 12:00 and 15:00. Dinner is served from 19:00 till late in the evening.


Health Care System

Vaccinations

Pharmacies and Medications

Health and Safety

Medical treatment and assistance in Cyprus is offered free of charge to international tourists in cases of emergency at the Accident and Emergency Department of Government Hospitals and Health Institutions. EU citizens must produce an E111 form or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) issued by their country’s health care authorities to obtain additional health care. Holidaymakers can also use their health insurance towards their medical expenses, provided the policy covers the length of their stay on the island. More detailed information can be obtained from the Cyprus Ministry of Health

Cyprus has no dangerous infectious diseases.Visitors do not require any vaccinations to travel to Cyprus.

Medicine can be purchased at pharmacies on presentation of a doctor’s prescription. Almost all brands of medicine are available in Cyprus. Pharmacies are all marked with a green cross.


Currency

Buses

Currency Exchange

Forms of Payment

Money and Currency

Transportation

The currency of the Republic used to be the Cyprus pound - CY£. As from 1st January 2008 the Cyprus pound has been replaced by the Euro as the legal tender money of Cyprus at the irrevocable fixed exchange rate € 1 = CY£ 0,585274.There are seven denominations in Euro banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euro. They all have different color and size, the higher the denomination, the bigger the size. One euro is divided into 100 cents. There are eight euro-coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, €1 and €2. The designs on one side of the coins are common to all the countries of the euro area, while the other side reflects national identities. All euro coins can be used in all euro area countries, irrespective of their national side.

- There are four types of buses in Cyprus that can help you move around:- Transurban buses that link all towns on a daily basis and with frequent routes- Rural buses that link almost all villages with the nearest city but with limited frequency once or twice daily except Sundays.- Urban buses that link different areas within the cities and operate frequently during daytime. In certain tourist areas, during summer period, their routes are extended till late in the evening.- Buses for airport transfers.

All banks operating in Cyprus offer foreign currency exchange services and quote the exchange rates of the Euro against all major foreign currencies daily. Foreign currency can also be exchanged at hotels. More detailed information concerning exchange rates can be obtained from the Central Bank of Cyprus . You can also use the currency converter .

Hotels, large shops and restaurants accept credit cards, travelers’ cheques, Eurocheques and banknotes of major foreign currencies.


T a x i s

There are three types of taxi services available, covering the entire island:- Transurban service which offers the opportunity to share a taxi with 4 - 7 other passengers. It provides connection between all major cities of Cyprus, every half an hour, from Monday to Friday starting at 06:00 in the morning until 18:00 in the evening. On Saturdays and Sundays, the service finishes an hour earlier at 17:00. Seats can be booked by phone or online from the providing companies.- Rural service operates in village areas and can only be hired from and to their base station. These taxis are not equipped with taximeters and charging is based on kilometer/tariff rate.

An indication of the charges is listed below:- Tariff I: Single trip 0,63 Euro per kilometer.- Tariff II: Single trip from 20:30 – 06:00 0,715 Euro per kilometer.- Tariff III: Return trip 0,49 Euro per kilometer.- Tariff IV: Return trip from 20:30 – 06:00 0,63 Euro per kilometer.- For every luggage weighing more than 12 kg 0,63 Euro per piece.

Delay or waiting time charge:- For tariff I and III 14,45 Euro per hour.- For tariff II and IV 18,821 Euro per hour.- Minimum Charge: 3,64 Euro.

- Urban service is a 24hours service provided in all cities. Taxis can be booked or hired on the street. Urban taxis are obligatory provided with taximeters and charging commences upon the entering of a passenger in the taxi. An indication of the charges is listed below:- From 06:01 - 20:30:- Initial charge 3,42 Euro- Fare per km 0,73 Euro- Delay or waiting time per hour 13,66 Euro- For every luggage weighing more than 12kg 1,20 Euro- Public Holidays surcharge 1,96 Euro- From 20:31 - 06:00:- Initial charge 4,36 Euro- Fare per kilometer 0,85 Euro- Delay or waiting time per hour 15,71 Euro- For every luggage weighing more than 12kg 1,20 Euro- During the following public Holidays, taxis charge an extra supplement of 1,96 Euro per ride: 24th, 25th, 26th and 31st December 1st January, Good Friday, Good Saturday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday and 1st May.


Making Phone Calls

Sending Letters, Parcels Telegrams

Internet Connection

Communications

In order to make a phone call to Cyprus from abroad, dial 00357 and then the eight-digit phone number.

If you wish to make a phone call abroad while in Cyprus, dial 00, followed by the country code and the telephone number. International calls can be made from public telephones available at various central locations in all cities and villages, as well as at international airports, harbors and elsewhere. There are three types of public telephones – coin phones, outdoor card phones and indoor card phones. Public payphones can be used for both national and international calls. Dialing instructions as well as rates are displayed in all payphones.

Calling within Cyprus simply requires dialing the eight-digit telephone number.

You can send your letters from post offices located throughout the island and at the airports or using the yellow mailboxes on the street. Stamps may be purchased from all Post Offices, Postal Agencies, as well as from many hotels, newsstands, kiosks, etc. Post offices offer other services, including courier service (data post), money orders, parcel post, etc. Telegrams can be sent through the Cyprus Telecommunications Authority (CYTA), which has offices in all towns.

Many establishments including phone centers, internet cafes and hotels offer internet connection services of various speeds and types. Depending on the establishment, the service offered is wired or wireless and is usually charged by the hour.


Drinking Age Limit

Tap Water

Electricity

Measurement System

Other Practical Info

The legal drinking age in Cyprus is 17. Drivers should exercise due care over the amount of alcohol consumed. The legal limit in breath is 22 micrograms of alcohol per 100 milliliters of breath. The legal limit in blood is 50 milligrams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood.

Water is safe to drink in Cyprus. Water pollution is negligible, and every home has fresh running drinking water. Tap water in hotels, restaurants, public premises, etc., is also safe to drink.

The electricity supply in Cyprus is 230 volts, a.c. 50 Hz. Sockets are usually 13-amp, square pin in most buildings. More than one low current rating appliance may be operated from the same supply point by using an adaptor (i.e. radios, electric clocks etc.). The use of adaptors for operating high current rating appliances is not recommended (i.e. electric heaters, toasters, irons etc.). Many hotels provide adaptors upon request from the reception. Adaptors can be purchased from electrical shops, supermarkets, grocery shops, etc.

Cyprus uses the metric system of weights and measures. Temperatures are reported in degrees Celsius, petrol is sold by the liter, grocery items are in grams and kilograms, fabric lengths in meters, and road speeds and distances posted in kilometers.

Procedure of Filing a ComplaintIf you have a complaint concerning an establishment or a service, you can contact the manager of the hotel or tourist establishment. If for whatever reason you are not satisfied and wish to take your complaint further, please contact the Cyprus Tourism Organization.

If you wish, please follow the link to the Cyprus Tourism Organization.(https://www.pinterest.com/visitcyprus/)


+357 25 873387

[email protected]

Theodorou Potamianou 50, 4155 Limassol, Cyprus