@@cyprusroyalmilytary8134 My other half is English. Grandparents Irish And American. Truth. Doesn't bother me. I was just staying that because I live here. Peace
It does not matter if you are TC or GC,you are all Cypriots and my wish,from someone who loves that island,is that you Cypriots become part of one country with one nationality and one identity.Cypriot.Get rid of the motherlands and become free.All i have seen there as a tourist in recent years is Turkish,insults,threats and provocations.The TCS are now fully under Turkish control to the point of their leader fixed by Turkey to win their elections.That is not freedom.All Cypriots should get rid of the countries,specially Turkey,that are causing more problems.
@@johnnywires943 well first convince the GC to except one another and to stop hatred and mentality that when they get the chance they will do athnic cleansing like they tried in past in the70s
Thank you for this video Jason. I have only visited Cyprus once in 1990 and in my ignorance, I wasn't aware that it was now possible to cross the border. You are probably my favourite TH-cam vlogger, your manner, style and thoroughness are impeccable. Thank you so very much
It's not called "borders" It's a buffer zone. A cease fire line. You do realize that the North is Illegally occupied by Turkish military force right? Whenever you go there, the Republic of Cyprus cannot protect you. Please be informed of the dangers.
WOW! I've always loved your personal signature trademark of youtube travel channel in which you take us viewers on a leisurely walkabout around each local neighbourhood that you happen to be in. It makes me feel like I took a break from my busy afternoon and go walking about with you to enjoy such interesting sights, sounds, smells and other experiences. Thank you, Jason. 😊❤
Thanks! I've been to South Nicosia many years ago and became a little obsessed with Borders as a result (sketchy hobby I realise). Wouldn't mind doing exactly this adventure so thanks a lot for the upload!
How sad… :( my mum is Greek Cypriot and was born in Famagusta before the war. I’d show her this video but she’d probably cry to see what’s become of her old home I wish everyone would just get along - no wars, no invasions, no killing ❤️
Except for the religion most Turks and Greeks have very similar traditions , food, and mannerisms they clld live together peacefully if not for politics
This was so fascinating to watch. I grew up in the south of Cyprus in the late 80s and all of 90s. It was totally impossible then to just "stroll" through the border as you just did. The divide is clearly more than just geographical. I'm now living in Australia and have only been back once (2019) since I left more than 20yrs ago. Apart from a few additions and minor changes, Nicosia to me looked largely the same as it had back in the 80s, and as you've shown, the 70s, too. Progress is undeniable for both sides, because that is an inevitable part of human existence. At the end of the day, we all want the same thing: to prosper in life. I feel that future generations will be the ones to move Cyprus into a new direction of unification, progress and peace. One thing I wanted to point out, especially about the people of Cyprus as a whole (illustrated by the younger population), that it is such a warm, friendly and safe place in which to live. Thanks so much for sharing!!
I enjoyed the ambiance and street vibe, especially in the evening shots you took. I could see myself very relaxed with these people. Wish I could go someday. :)
Jason I'm just hooked on your videos lately, its not an ordinary "Travel Chanel" there is so much more capture the nature of a place getting into the details only locals are usally exposed too. Great Vid as always. Please come to a visit in Tel Aviv you are so close by.
Saw almost none of these places and I've gone around the island a number of times with a motorbike. For anyone there with a motorbike or car, I suggest the road to the very northeastern tip of the island. There are two islands off the coast, the only I've ever seen in Cyprus, and a lot of interesting things to see on the way, including the Cyprus donkey(the wild animal, not the humans). About 8 years ago the road was in excellent condition until about 2km from the point, after which it was gravel. There was a lot of construction of new houses in the area, so I'm sure it's paved the whole way these days.
Hi Jason visited a few times back in the day with the UN, not a lot has changed to be honest but believe it or not always enjoyed my times there especially the weather, we dont see much sunshine in Ireland lol.
Typically brilliant and very interesting video again Jason👍🙂 A brilliant snapshot of what it is like in northern Cyprus, looking forward to the next video already 👍
As always, well presented and amazing. Thanks so much! One idea from other vlogs….when you get a haircut in another country, video it. The experience has to be interesting!!
I visited Northern Cyprus in old Nicosia the other day. People and venders were very friendly. Interesting that the majority of prices were all in euros. When buying most asked if I would pay in euros or dollars. For some military surplus I offered a British five pound note which was accepted and change dispensed in liras.
The north is more picturesque. What was shown was only a tiny part of North Nicosia. On the north coast where views of the sea and the mountains are wonderful. Have a look at Girne/ Kyrenia. I am sure you will not be disappointed. And it is much cheaper too
Useful video, just booked an Airbnb on Turkish side, was imagining it to be a nightmare crossing the border every day with a non EU British passport, but seems easy.
Thank you very much to Jason for sharing this informative video. I learn a "historical" thing from this special, interesting video. I believe Jason is a smart world traveller. Thanks, Jason! Good luck & enjoy your adventures. Take care.
What a warm welcome 😅 those kids really cracked me up 😂 just out of curiosity, do the non-Turkish people relate this finger thing ? is it like like giving someone the finger in other cultures too ? 🙈 Great vlog btw👍
You mentioned the Schengen Zone issue when crossing the border but I thought neither Cyprus nor Turkey is in Shengen Zone. I wonder if the scanning is for that or just control. Perhaps I misheard or you could elaborate.
Think I recognize the guest house! Is it called something like Cypriot Swallow Boutique? Stayed there about 4 years ago! Remember the walk back along deserted dark streets! So easy to get lost!
Hey Jason, Youri and I looked up your channel when we met you in the guesthouse (after the wifi problems😂). This video and the previous one of Nicosia were recommended to us yesterday, so haha thanks youtube :). Funny to see that you visited Buyuk Han just before us! We ate in the same restaurant and there was a Turkish-Cypriot wedding taking place at that time, you can see the preparations of this wedding in your shots. We really enioyed watching your vlogs, love the quality of the cameras you use and you show all the nice places. Wish you the best with all your travels! Greetings from the Netherlands :)
Hey! Nice to see you pop up here. That’s funny we ended up eating in the same place. I saw glimpses of the wedding before having my food actually. Glad you’re liking the videos. Hope you had a nice trip!
Thank you Jason for visit our part of cyprus too. Love to watch both side videos. İ am Turkish Cypriot from Famagusta. You should visit kyrenia and famagusta too. There are beautiful places. Historical and for enjoy. Beautiful beaches. And also at Famagusta you and your followers would like to see varosha (ghost town). There is also have amazing story. There were most beautiful and touristic place before the war. And still beautiful and interesting for visit. Would like to show you both ( christian and muslim) culture and religion places too at famagusta area.
@@annaskippings6256 i am 40 years old now and never heard anyone injured or more because of land mines at beach. There is thousands of peope everyday at summer. And yes it is so safety
Hi Jason, appreciate the job you did in exploring the occupied part of Cyprus. Pretty decent considering that our history is so perplexed. I haven't visited the occupied part since COVID started but i doubt much has changed. Just few comments on your video: - As a Greek-Cypriot who is a strong believer in a solution and who wants to live peacefully with my brothers, Turkish- Cypriots, it is essential that you distinguish this in your videos. Turkish-Cypriots were also habitants of this island and they were living in peace with Greek-Cypriots in the past. All Cypriots knew both languages (Greek and Turkey) and the point of a solution is to get to the point (at least to some extent) to how it was. This is impossible to do after so, so many years (no points to get into details here - what happened, how we got here etc.) but the main issue is to stop the uncontrolled streams of Turkish people coming to Cyprus. Because this would create a part of Turkey which then Erdogan would like to attach to Turkey. - Turkish-Cypriots man, are pretty different than Turkish people and do not actually enjoy their dependence on Turkey. Turkish - Cypriots have quite a few differences. They speak a dialect of the Turkish language, they have a different mentality and attitude to some things. And this is something that mustn't be lost. Which if it becomes part of Turkey it will be lost!! - Turkey is not so supportive to them as you believe. That is also a reason they have remained so under - developed. - I usually try to support Turkish-Cypriots and their businesses, so it is always good to find them. I remember that they used to accept also Euros. - Cyprus is not in the Schengen zone. - And yes, sheftalia is an amazing Cypriot traditional dish. Glad you tasted it. Never tried it on the other side so don't know how they make it. Hope it was good. I wrote quite a lot. this is an ongoing problem which results to a lot of heated arguments. I hope we finally one day unite Cyprus because no one of us want the occupied part to become another part of Turkey, it is just sad. I know that a lot of propaganda will follow but anyway its up to each one to learn and expand on this knowledge.
Wow! A Turkish Cypriot myself, yours is one of the most balanced approaches I've encountered. Especially regarding the immigration from Turkey. I agree with everything you have said here. Peace✌🏼
change is part of life and humanity and will always be. Nothing lasts forever. We have to accept that. Everything is a result of our decision and actions and if Greek cypriots didnt vote against a unification when Turkey offered it (and then eventually leave from the island) the situation on cyprus would be a whole different one. And as long Greece and Turkey dont stop acting hostile to each other the situation on cyprus and the presence of turkish military wont change. Because while some turkish-cypriots feel annoyed by the Dependence on Turkey they all should not forget that their parents and all of them all would not exist anymore if Turkey didnt interfer in the attempted genocide. The military presence is there for a reason. But still I hope Turkish and Greek will one day find to each other and can live peacefully together without any mistrusts
As a Turkish citizen I think you have some missing aspects. Though I would love to sit and discuss the issues, unfortunately we need to do it either in North or at the Home for Cooperation at the Green Line. - Anyway, though Turkish and Greek Cypriots were living relatively peaceful for some centuries, after 1950's they were not anymore living in peace. Two communities have been in constant conflict, GC's wanted to join Greece, Turks to Turkey. So there was no peace on the island in 1973, the year before invasion. - The immigrants from Turkey to TRNC were encouraged to settle for different reasons. There may have been the purpose of creating demographic transformation, but certainly there were also economic motives. North needed agricultural labor force, the number of TC's was not enough for doing agricultural work needed. Later workers were needed for service and construction sectors. Actually Turkey is not the only country sending immigrants workers to TRNC, a lot of Middle Eastern and African countries do it as well. Many of the people from Turkey live in inferior conditions. - There are different reasons for TC's to leave the island. But most important one is the fact that they can. TC's can go to European country they choose, to Britain, Canada and Australia. So they have options, in fact better options. Unlike them immigrants from Turkey don't. So again relative decrease in size of TC's in the North also has some economic reasons. - Turks from Turkey are still foreigners here, we need permits to work, study, open business, or even to stay longer then 3 months per year. - As for the culture, again Turkey is a large country with a lot of dialects and culture. Believe it or not, average TC is more conservative compared with me. I am agnostic. Culture and dialect of Izmir is different from culture and dialect of Trabzon, so are culture and dialect of Edirne, Konya, Adana, Diyarbakır. So when you travel from Istanbul to TRNC, the culture and dialect of the country is not different for you, or it is as different as the case when you travel to a different part of Turkey. Of course TRNC is smaller and from the perspective of TRNC, culture (the average culture) of Turkey may seem foreign. - As for support from Turkey, Turkey itself is not a very rich country and experience recently deep economic problems. The main problem is not economic support Turkey gives or doesn't give in my opinion. The main problem is isolation TRNC has been experienced since 1974, and the leverage of control that isolation gives to Turkey, since Turkey is the only country through which TRNC could trade or interact with rest of the world. People of TRNC should have power to control their own future.
@@KingdomArtz Friend, fair enough. I assume situation might had been different had we chosen a different vote. But I don't like looking in the past. I like learning from it and move forward. Cyprus is its people. Hostility comes from its people. I don't know how you expect to stop if mindsets don't change. Also, genocide is such a strong word. Let's just not name anything "genocide" just for our conveniece. Extremists groups were always part of Countries. Very very small portions of people were terrorizing because they were just allowed. But people nowdays are more aware what a war is, one is currently unfolding very close to us. Nothing but nothing justifies a war.
9:35. This is not true: “Turkish Cypriots are descendants of those Turks who “conquered” North Cyprus in 1971. The Turks lived there since the Ottoman Empire time. The Greeks lived there since Byzantine time. Turkish Cypriots lived in the Island long before 1971. Yes, some came from Turkey after 1971, not a lot. Those caused trouble and many were sent back. Turkish Cypriots told me that. They themselves were not happy with that trying to bring more people from Turkey that time. As you obviously know there was a terrible situation in Cyprus before 1971. So many Turkish Cypriots were killed. The innocent civilians. It was like a genocide and that was stopped in 1971. I know the true stories from local Turkish Cypriots who witnessed that nightmare and who were lucky to survive. There are plenty of documentary showing the truth but you didn’t take a trouble to learn any of that.
TMT established (under the support of the Turkish military) in 1958 and EOKA B were two sides of the same coin, in that they were both ultra-nationalist organisations. TMT wanted union with Turkey and Taksim (division), EOKA B wanted union with Greece (Enosis). TMT organised attacks on properties, civilians and organised guérilla warfare as well as actual warfare (eg. Bombing- with the help of Turkey) in 1964 in Tillyria. Denktas (TMT leader) confessed that he was following orders from Turkey when he was arrested in 1967. Not to mention the multiple provocations to spur civilians against each other, such as the murder of Ayhan Hikmet or that of Dervis Ali Kavazoglou and Kostas Misiaoulis. TMT veteran Turgut Yenagrali, said in a TV interview that he had killed innocent Greek Cypriot civilian war prisoners in 1974. Another TV confession (it seems Turkish nationalists don’t mind blatantly speaking about their intentions): former Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said: 'Even if there was not a Muslim Turk there [in Cyprus], Turkey had to maintain a Cypriot issue ....] Turkey is obliged from a strategic point of view to be interested in Cyprus beyond the human factor'." The invasion was carefully orchestrated and the grounds for the invasion were being sculpted for more than a decade, by influencing Turkish Cypriots and their ideology, by arming them and finally in 1974 by launching two full-scale invasions, which were not mere intervention to the illegal coup. Expansion to Cyprus was always the goal of Turkey. The second invasion was illegal, as it was not within the scope of Turkey’s legal right to intervention (not invasion) conferred to her by the treaties of London and Zurich. In fact, the invasion went completely against those treaties and led to countless war crimes: from torturing PoW, to massacring more than 5.000 civilians, to raping girls, looting houses and historical sites. Its outcome was even more war crimes- displacement of the local population (estimated about 160.000-200.000) and the establishment of settler colonialism (similar to that in occupied Palestine). There are countless examples of human rights cases against Turkey by Cypriots in the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR), one such case is that of (recently elected archbishop) George of Cyprus, who was falsely arrested, falsely imprisoned, and abused in 1974 by Turkish troops. His case (which was a joint case) was the first among many successful human rights violation cases against Turkey following the invasion.
Also you don’t really call 300.000 illegal settlers ‘some’. They are the majority of the occupied north, while in my experience as a Greek Cypriot with some Turkish Cypriot classmates, Turkish Cypriots despise turkish authoritarianism, and the current economy is pushing them abroad to the UK and Germany.
Sorry friend, you think that you "saw". If you want to get the actual picture you must go there and see the destroyed and vandalised Christian churches, cemeteries and thousand years of Greek civilization under the boot of Atilla. Then you will see the reality of this Turkey's protectorate...
@@phk1959 friend , I totally understand the catasthropy , I live in Greece, Because I've visited this town long ago I ment literally the other side ,how you pass the border ...peace!
@@icelandicball tell us about it. What had happened. But the truth and only the truth. Tell us about "Deniz" the turkish ship carrying guns and a million bullets from Turkey to TC at the time of establishing the Republic of Cyprus. Tell us about Nihat Erim Plan for the recovery of Cyprus by Turkey. Tell us about todays statements by Mr Tatar that the whole of Cyprus belongs to Turkey. Tell us the whole & true history and not your bedstory. Meantime enjoy your protectorate established by Turkey in our stolen motherland after it had committed an ethnic cleaning and an endless list of war crimes against your Greekcypriot compatriots. Enjoy..
I crossed the border over a week ago, x 1 night in famagusta, x 1 night in girne, was definately worth the visit as i went on holiday to girne 20 yrs ago when you could fly direct from the UK with a refuel at istanbul, alot had changed
Lovely video Jason.I have been to Cyprus numerous times and I absolutely love this country. I have spent many days North Nicosia. That kebap place you showed, I have had eaten there once and they did a really good job. The bars are really nice, I have been there too. Btw there are no restrictions on passport for crossing border from the Greek side however not all passport holders can enter the greek side if their port of entry was iN TRNC. Which guest house did you choose to stay?
Thank you for showing something of the Old Quarter of North Nicosia. I made the crossing many times before the pandemic while I was living in Girne. I noticed from your vlog how the checks at the Green Line have become steadily more informal. Opposite the last taxi stop before the Green Line I used to visit the No.3 Restaurant and got to know the staff a bit. If you walk past the monument, on your right you willl find a side street where minibuses leave for Girne.
MANY TOUCH HIM AND ARE MADE WELL!! When they had crossed over, they came to the land of Gennesaret and anchored there. And when they came out of the boat, immediately the people recognized Him, ran through that whole surrounding region, and began to carry about on beds those who were sick to wherever they heard He was. Wherever He entered, into villages, cities, or the country, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged Him that they might just touch the hem of His garment. And as many as touched Him were made well.
And cheers to you Jason from Arizona USA. What a interesting island Cyprus . Divided by Greek and Turkey. Only would I know the actual scenery through your video. Peace. And I will keep following you. Thank you
@@alondon6950 the War involved Greek and Turkish Cypriots. Then Greece and Turkey got involved directly in 1974. The Greek Cypriot and Greek actions also contributed to the division of Cyprus.
@@JC19676 that incorrect the greek junta was directly involved the movemetn of Enosis sought the annexation of the island with greece. THe Akridis Plan the brain child of Makarious and Athens. Makarious is on record ( Re. UN General Asembly ) stating greece had invaded and caused & pleeded the UN ot reinstate teh collpased constition . That admission is avainble online.
Jason should have been born in a warmer climate. You can just tell he’s drawn to hotter places and I’d say to those ancient/remote countries/cities retaining some sort of ‘rocky’ and long history too. I might be wrong but that’s just my impression:).
@@JasonBillamTravel I loved watching your Italy’s vlogs and through my observations you seemed to have had a great time in Naples out of all the cities you visited which is also the most chaotic one and the city with the most complicated history/situation too.
I hold a Brunei passport and I crossed the border for a day in 2018. I think the immigration from the south wants to make sure, we will be able to return back
Thank you for coming to Turkish part of cyprus Jason. Enjow your time there ! Sorry about the some kids. They were a little bit ''fırlama'' /Brat ( as we call in Turkish) 😅
TRNC is a lovely friendly part of CYPRUS and the people are honest and kind. It’s a pity that the Cypriot people don’t believe in becoming one country again😢life is too short it’s is what you make it. The towns in the TRNC have high rise flats with modern building and wonderful museums with historical sites, really interesting 🤔. Really worth a visit or a holiday
The beautiful universal sound of children laughing and playing bonds us all. Children do not care about these flags and borders that have been put up to limit and bind us. God willing the children will use this power to one day tear down these walls and unite us all.
It's weird how un documented this is worldwide. I would love to see the whole of the North side of cyprus and how different life is on the same island. Totally different in this video from South Side
SHAME!! As a Turkish Cypriot, I was just ashamed of this video. It truly devastates me to see the state our beautiful Cyprus has fallen into. Cyprus has become a dirty, disorderly place where no Cypriot lives anymore. Turkish Cypriots are being assimilated by Turkish people, as clearly seen in the video, and perhaps in another 20 years, there will be nothing left of our culture and society. SAD
Wow, those shops are incredible, the photo of the woman and the other with the older man are incredible. The area reminds me of my childhood in Malta. Thank you for this interesting video, would love to visit Cyprus, both north and south.
It's weird...looks like the streets are very empty in Northern Cyprus...the marketplace has a bit more activity, but deeper inside streets seem empty.... this is my impression as an outside..never been there but would love to go insha Allah
Not really appropriate to say you love the fact the Turkish flags flying from the mosque can be seen in southern Cyprus. The situation is still very raw to many Cypriots!
2 ปีที่แล้ว +2
Also not appropriate because it’s literally an occupation. It’s like saying you love the fact that Israeli flags can be seen by Palestinians
2 ปีที่แล้ว +1
The selimiye “mosque” is also literally an example of colonisation
This might be the most uninformed comment on TH-cam. His assessment of everything in this video was from his point of view as a British tourist. This is not a historical video.
Hey mate, did you cross to Turkey after North Cyprus? Do you know whether it's possible to leave the island that way instead of coming back to the Rep. of Cyprus?
Of course you can. It's a free country just like any other. Just coz it's not recognised, it doesn't mean you are restricted. Come on you guys get a life and stop protraying north Cyprus as a monstrous land
Just found out from 23 and me I was part Cypriot… not sure if this originated from the Greek or Turkish side though. They just highlighted the entire island 🫠
The Turkish population is a new addition in Cyprus in just the last 500 years since the Ottoman invasion and occupation. The indigenous population is the Greek that have inhabited the island for thousands of years. DNA records refer to the indigenous population.
I'm sorry about the question but next week on Saturday me and my bf will traveling to Cyprus and I'm worried about something, do they need covid vaccination or PCR things?
Spent 5 years in North Cyprus back in 90s while i was studying in university in Famagusta. It is an amazing placecto be sort of cut off from the rest of the world but still alive and kicking.
I am half Turkish Cypriot and this area is old Nicosia. Once you move further in the city is totally modern.
I’m Cypriot
@@cyprusroyalmilytary8134 My other half is English. Grandparents Irish And American. Truth. Doesn't bother me. I was just staying that because I live here. Peace
Come on, you can't build you just steal from other nations' churches, towns, and heritage.
It does not matter if you are TC or GC,you are all Cypriots and my wish,from someone who loves that island,is that you Cypriots become part of one country with one nationality and one identity.Cypriot.Get rid of the motherlands and become free.All i have seen there as a tourist in recent years is Turkish,insults,threats and provocations.The TCS are now fully under Turkish control to the point of their leader fixed by Turkey to win their elections.That is not freedom.All Cypriots should get rid of the countries,specially Turkey,that are causing more problems.
@@johnnywires943 well first convince the GC to except one another and to stop hatred and mentality that when they get the chance they will do athnic cleansing like they tried in past in the70s
Thank you for this video Jason. I have only visited Cyprus once in 1990 and in my ignorance, I wasn't aware that it was now possible to cross the border. You are probably my favourite TH-cam vlogger, your manner, style and thoroughness are impeccable. Thank you so very much
The border opened in 2007 you are not ignorant it used to be more militarised.
@@mariopanago2870 Thank you
It's not called "borders"
It's a buffer zone.
A cease fire line.
You do realize that the North is Illegally occupied by Turkish military force right?
Whenever you go there, the Republic of Cyprus cannot protect you.
Please be informed of the dangers.
th-cam.com/video/NsXwNNcOtX8/w-d-xo.html
2004** @@mariopanago2870
Not the most vlogged country! Good choice Jason and good one as always 👍
It is not a country, that's why.
It is@@smeth1744
"country"?
WOW! I've always loved your personal signature trademark of youtube travel channel in which you take us viewers on a leisurely walkabout around each local neighbourhood that you happen to be in. It makes me feel like I took a break from my busy afternoon and go walking about with you to enjoy such interesting sights, sounds, smells and other experiences. Thank you, Jason. 😊❤
Thanks! I've been to South Nicosia many years ago and became a little obsessed with Borders as a result (sketchy hobby I realise). Wouldn't mind doing exactly this adventure so thanks a lot for the upload!
Thanks for all the great videos!
Thank you Ed, much appreciated!
Thanks for filming both sides, I always wanted to visit ❤️
How sad… :( my mum is Greek Cypriot and was born in Famagusta before the war. I’d show her this video but she’d probably cry to see what’s become of her old home
I wish everyone would just get along - no wars, no invasions, no killing ❤️
Except for the religion most Turks and Greeks have very similar traditions , food, and mannerisms they clld live together peacefully if not for politics
@@marygabirosano7907 yes I think so!!
10:02 the thing that he did with his hand is a Turkish swear hand gesture just like middle finger
lies
@@ThatOneRussianTank Nah he is swearing at him bro 😂😂😂
@@ThatOneRussianTanktruth. They even do that *puf* sound with hands to make it clear 100%
it's called çomak
Hahahaba
Your channel is my favorite 👍
I watch your channel for long time 👍
This was so fascinating to watch. I grew up in the south of Cyprus in the late 80s and all of 90s. It was totally impossible then to just "stroll" through the border as you just did. The divide is clearly more than just geographical. I'm now living in Australia and have only been back once (2019) since I left more than 20yrs ago. Apart from a few additions and minor changes, Nicosia to me looked largely the same as it had back in the 80s, and as you've shown, the 70s, too. Progress is undeniable for both sides, because that is an inevitable part of human existence. At the end of the day, we all want the same thing: to prosper in life. I feel that future generations will be the ones to move Cyprus into a new direction of unification, progress and peace.
One thing I wanted to point out, especially about the people of Cyprus as a whole (illustrated by the younger population), that it is such a warm, friendly and safe place in which to live. Thanks so much for sharing!!
😜
One of the best videos of Lefkosa, well- presented and non-judgemental.
I enjoyed the ambiance and street vibe, especially in the evening shots you took. I could see myself very relaxed with these people. Wish I could go someday. :)
It’s a different world!
nice video Jason - going to Nicosia in a few weeks - very helpful
Great video Jason. I am a Chicago Cypriot TH-camr, and I filmed this area many times.
Jason I'm just hooked on your videos lately, its not an ordinary "Travel Chanel" there is so much more capture the nature of a place getting into the details only locals are usally exposed too. Great Vid as always. Please come to a visit in Tel Aviv you are so close by.
Thank you!
Saw almost none of these places and I've gone around the island a number of times with a motorbike.
For anyone there with a motorbike or car, I suggest the road to the very northeastern tip of the island. There are two islands off the coast, the only I've ever seen in Cyprus, and a lot of interesting things to see on the way, including the Cyprus donkey(the wild animal, not the humans). About 8 years ago the road was in excellent condition until about 2km from the point, after which it was gravel. There was a lot of construction of new houses in the area, so I'm sure it's paved the whole way these days.
Hi Jason visited a few times back in the day with the UN, not a lot has changed to be honest but believe it or not always enjoyed my times there especially the weather, we dont see much sunshine in Ireland lol.
Typically brilliant and very interesting video again Jason👍🙂 A brilliant snapshot of what it is like in northern Cyprus, looking forward to the next video already 👍
Nice honest video about the north mate👍🏻
As always, well presented and amazing. Thanks so much! One idea from other vlogs….when you get a haircut in another country, video it. The experience has to be interesting!!
Very good video, which captures the feel of the real Northern Cyprus beyond the popular tourist attractions.
I visited Northern Cyprus in old Nicosia the other day. People and venders were very friendly. Interesting that the majority of prices were all in euros. When buying most asked if I would pay in euros or dollars. For some military surplus I offered a British five pound note which was accepted and change dispensed in liras.
Wonderful video. I've been to Cyprus many times, but never to the north.
th-cam.com/video/NsXwNNcOtX8/w-d-xo.html
The north is more picturesque. What was shown was only a tiny part of North Nicosia. On the north coast where views of the sea and the mountains are wonderful. Have a look at Girne/ Kyrenia. I am sure you will not be disappointed. And it is much cheaper too
Useful video, just booked an Airbnb on Turkish side, was imagining it to be a nightmare crossing the border every day with a non EU British passport, but seems easy.
Great channel Jason I’ve been to Cyprus many times and other places keep up the good work cheers 🍻
I love land border crossings. It's a condition I call 'Frontieraphilia' - a love of borders, and this one is on my bucket list. Great video.
Pease, stop putting dumb names to just things that you like.
Thank you very much to Jason for sharing this informative video. I learn a "historical" thing from this special, interesting video. I believe Jason is a smart world traveller. Thanks, Jason! Good luck & enjoy your adventures. Take care.
Really interesting vlog - what a difference a few metres makes! I wonder how long that Morris Minor on the south side had been there
What a warm welcome 😅 those kids really cracked me up 😂 just out of curiosity, do the non-Turkish people relate this finger thing ? is it like like giving someone the finger in other cultures too ? 🙈
Great vlog btw👍
this finger thing is related to Turkey. So Cypriots do not do that.
Koreans do it too. I saw it in some Korean movies.
Turkey has flooded the north with illegal settlers so those kids are likely born to Turks and not Turkish Cypriots
Yup.... those street urchin kids need to be disciplined by their parents. Very rude of them... but kids will be kids... 😅
Enjoyed that Jason. 👍
My first time at your channel but they are very informative and pertinent. I felt I missed a lot already.
You mentioned the Schengen Zone issue when crossing the border but I thought neither Cyprus nor Turkey is in Shengen Zone. I wonder if the scanning is for that or just control. Perhaps I misheard or you could elaborate.
correct cyp is not in the shenghen one due to issue on the island with turkey
Think I recognize the guest house! Is it called something like Cypriot Swallow Boutique? Stayed there about 4 years ago! Remember the walk back along deserted dark streets! So easy to get lost!
Hey Jason, Youri and I looked up your channel when we met you in the guesthouse (after the wifi problems😂). This video and the previous one of Nicosia were recommended to us yesterday, so haha thanks youtube :). Funny to see that you visited Buyuk Han just before us! We ate in the same restaurant and there was a Turkish-Cypriot wedding taking place at that time, you can see the preparations of this wedding in your shots. We really enioyed watching your vlogs, love the quality of the cameras you use and you show all the nice places. Wish you the best with all your travels! Greetings from the Netherlands :)
Hey! Nice to see you pop up here. That’s funny we ended up eating in the same place. I saw glimpses of the wedding before having my food actually. Glad you’re liking the videos. Hope you had a nice trip!
Nice ambience. Vintage things make me nostalgic.
💛🧡🧡 Lovely video.. it's like going back in time
Thank you for videos!
Thank you Jason for visit our part of cyprus too. Love to watch both side videos. İ am Turkish Cypriot from Famagusta. You should visit kyrenia and famagusta too. There are beautiful places. Historical and for enjoy. Beautiful beaches. And also at Famagusta you and your followers would like to see varosha (ghost town). There is also have amazing story. There were most beautiful and touristic place before the war. And still beautiful and interesting for visit. Would like to show you both ( christian and muslim) culture and religion places too at famagusta area.
I always thought that the Farmagousta beach was filled with land mines. Have these been recovered and the beaches made safe?
@@annaskippings6256 i am 40 years old now and never heard anyone injured or more because of land mines at beach. There is thousands of peope everyday at summer. And yes it is so safety
Hi Jason, appreciate the job you did in exploring the occupied part of Cyprus. Pretty decent considering that our history is so perplexed. I haven't visited the occupied part since COVID started but i doubt much has changed.
Just few comments on your video:
- As a Greek-Cypriot who is a strong believer in a solution and who wants to live peacefully with my brothers, Turkish- Cypriots, it is essential that you distinguish this in your videos. Turkish-Cypriots were also habitants of this island and they were living in peace with Greek-Cypriots in the past. All Cypriots knew both languages (Greek and Turkey) and the point of a solution is to get to the point (at least to some extent) to how it was. This is impossible to do after so, so many years (no points to get into details here - what happened, how we got here etc.) but the main issue is to stop the uncontrolled streams of Turkish people coming to Cyprus. Because this would create a part of Turkey which then Erdogan would like to attach to Turkey.
- Turkish-Cypriots man, are pretty different than Turkish people and do not actually enjoy their dependence on Turkey. Turkish - Cypriots have quite a few differences. They speak a dialect of the Turkish language, they have a different mentality and attitude to some things. And this is something that mustn't be lost. Which if it becomes part of Turkey it will be lost!!
- Turkey is not so supportive to them as you believe. That is also a reason they have remained so under - developed.
- I usually try to support Turkish-Cypriots and their businesses, so it is always good to find them. I remember that they used to accept also Euros.
- Cyprus is not in the Schengen zone.
- And yes, sheftalia is an amazing Cypriot traditional dish. Glad you tasted it. Never tried it on the other side so don't know how they make it. Hope it was good.
I wrote quite a lot. this is an ongoing problem which results to a lot of heated arguments. I hope we finally one day unite Cyprus because no one of us want the occupied part to become another part of Turkey, it is just sad. I know that a lot of propaganda will follow but anyway its up to each one to learn and expand on this knowledge.
Wow! A Turkish Cypriot myself, yours is one of the most balanced approaches I've encountered. Especially regarding the immigration from Turkey. I agree with everything you have said here. Peace✌🏼
change is part of life and humanity and will always be. Nothing lasts forever. We have to accept that.
Everything is a result of our decision and actions and if Greek cypriots didnt vote against a unification when Turkey offered it (and then eventually leave from the island) the situation on cyprus would be a whole different one.
And as long Greece and Turkey dont stop acting hostile to each other the situation on cyprus and the presence of turkish military wont change.
Because while some turkish-cypriots feel annoyed by the Dependence on Turkey they all should not forget that their parents and all of them all would not exist anymore if Turkey didnt interfer in the attempted genocide. The military presence is there for a reason.
But still I hope Turkish and Greek will one day find to each other and can live peacefully together without any mistrusts
As a Turkish citizen I think you have some missing aspects. Though I would love to sit and discuss the issues, unfortunately we need to do it either in North or at the Home for Cooperation at the Green Line.
- Anyway, though Turkish and Greek Cypriots were living relatively peaceful for some centuries, after 1950's they were not anymore living in peace. Two communities have been in constant conflict, GC's wanted to join Greece, Turks to Turkey. So there was no peace on the island in 1973, the year before invasion.
- The immigrants from Turkey to TRNC were encouraged to settle for different reasons. There may have been the purpose of creating demographic transformation, but certainly there were also economic motives. North needed agricultural labor force, the number of TC's was not enough for doing agricultural work needed. Later workers were needed for service and construction sectors. Actually Turkey is not the only country sending immigrants workers to TRNC, a lot of Middle Eastern and African countries do it as well. Many of the people from Turkey live in inferior conditions.
- There are different reasons for TC's to leave the island. But most important one is the fact that they can. TC's can go to European country they choose, to Britain, Canada and Australia. So they have options, in fact better options. Unlike them immigrants from Turkey don't. So again relative decrease in size of TC's in the North also has some economic reasons.
- Turks from Turkey are still foreigners here, we need permits to work, study, open business, or even to stay longer then 3 months per year.
- As for the culture, again Turkey is a large country with a lot of dialects and culture. Believe it or not, average TC is more conservative compared with me. I am agnostic. Culture and dialect of Izmir is different from culture and dialect of Trabzon, so are culture and dialect of Edirne, Konya, Adana, Diyarbakır. So when you travel from Istanbul to TRNC, the culture and dialect of the country is not different for you, or it is as different as the case when you travel to a different part of Turkey. Of course TRNC is smaller and from the perspective of TRNC, culture (the average culture) of Turkey may seem foreign.
- As for support from Turkey, Turkey itself is not a very rich country and experience recently deep economic problems. The main problem is not economic support Turkey gives or doesn't give in my opinion. The main problem is isolation TRNC has been experienced since 1974, and the leverage of control that isolation gives to Turkey, since Turkey is the only country through which TRNC could trade or interact with rest of the world. People of TRNC should have power to control their own future.
@@theozzy4717 thank you man, appreciated. Good to know that I am able to understand your side. Peace :)
@@KingdomArtz Friend, fair enough. I assume situation might had been different had we chosen a different vote. But I don't like looking in the past. I like learning from it and move forward.
Cyprus is its people. Hostility comes from its people. I don't know how you expect to stop if mindsets don't change. Also, genocide is such a strong word. Let's just not name anything "genocide" just for our conveniece. Extremists groups were always part of Countries. Very very small portions of people were terrorizing because they were just allowed. But people nowdays are more aware what a war is, one is currently unfolding very close to us. Nothing but nothing justifies a war.
Very nice video...enjoyed a lot....loved the children interact without hesitation
9:35. This is not true: “Turkish Cypriots are descendants of those Turks who “conquered” North Cyprus in 1971. The Turks lived there since the Ottoman Empire time. The Greeks lived there since Byzantine time. Turkish Cypriots lived in the Island long before 1971. Yes, some came from Turkey after 1971, not a lot. Those caused trouble and many were sent back. Turkish Cypriots told me that. They themselves were not happy with that trying to bring more people from Turkey that time. As you obviously know there was a terrible situation in Cyprus before 1971. So many Turkish Cypriots were killed. The innocent civilians. It was like a genocide and that was stopped in 1971. I know the true stories from local Turkish Cypriots who witnessed that nightmare and who were lucky to survive. There are plenty of documentary showing the truth but you didn’t take a trouble to learn any of that.
I am Russian British, nothing personal. I have been to Northern Cyprus many times. I know what Europeans were not told or don’t want to know.
Cyprus has been Greek since 1200BC what are you on about. All cities in Cyprus were founded by Greeks. Paphos, Salamis, Kyreneia, Lapithos etc.
TMT established (under the support of the Turkish military) in 1958 and EOKA B were two sides of the same coin, in that they were both ultra-nationalist organisations. TMT wanted union with Turkey and Taksim (division), EOKA B wanted union with Greece (Enosis). TMT organised attacks on properties, civilians and organised guérilla warfare as well as actual warfare (eg. Bombing- with the help of Turkey) in 1964 in Tillyria. Denktas (TMT leader) confessed that he was following orders from Turkey when he was arrested in 1967. Not to mention the multiple provocations to spur civilians against each other, such as the murder of Ayhan Hikmet or that of Dervis Ali Kavazoglou and Kostas Misiaoulis. TMT veteran Turgut Yenagrali, said in a TV interview that he had killed innocent Greek Cypriot civilian war prisoners in 1974. Another TV confession (it seems Turkish nationalists don’t mind blatantly speaking about their intentions): former Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said: 'Even if there was not a Muslim Turk there [in Cyprus], Turkey had to maintain a Cypriot issue ....] Turkey is obliged from a strategic point of view to be interested in Cyprus beyond the human factor'." The invasion was carefully orchestrated and the grounds for the invasion were being sculpted for more than a decade, by influencing Turkish Cypriots and their ideology, by arming them and finally in 1974 by launching two full-scale invasions, which were not mere intervention to the illegal coup. Expansion to Cyprus was always the goal of Turkey. The second invasion was illegal, as it was not within the scope of Turkey’s legal right to intervention (not invasion) conferred to her by the treaties of London and Zurich. In fact, the invasion went completely against those treaties and led to countless war crimes: from torturing PoW, to massacring more than 5.000 civilians, to raping girls, looting houses and historical sites. Its outcome was even more war crimes- displacement of the local population (estimated about 160.000-200.000) and the establishment of settler colonialism (similar to that in occupied Palestine). There are countless examples of human rights cases against Turkey by Cypriots in the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR), one such case is that of (recently elected archbishop) George of Cyprus, who was falsely arrested, falsely imprisoned, and abused in 1974 by Turkish troops. His case (which was a joint case) was the first among many successful human rights violation cases against Turkey following the invasion.
Also the invasion was in 1974 not 1971. You clearly know nothing about Cyprus.
Also you don’t really call 300.000 illegal settlers ‘some’. They are the majority of the occupied north, while in my experience as a Greek Cypriot with some Turkish Cypriot classmates, Turkish Cypriots despise turkish authoritarianism, and the current economy is pushing them abroad to the UK and Germany.
Keep up🔥❤️
Great video, expriencied and visited both sides.
Fascinating as usual I enjoy your food choices. John in Chicago
Thank you Jason,I finally saw the other side. You're a gem!
Sorry friend, you think that you "saw". If you want to get the actual picture you must go there and see the destroyed and vandalised Christian churches, cemeteries and thousand years of Greek civilization under the boot of Atilla. Then you will see the reality of this Turkey's protectorate...
@@phk1959 friend , I totally understand the catasthropy , I live in Greece, Because I've visited this town long ago I ment literally the other side ,how you pass the border ...peace!
@@paivitiitta1884 thanks. I do respect your reply.
@@phk1959 bloody christmas
@@icelandicball tell us about it. What had happened. But the truth and only the truth. Tell us about "Deniz" the turkish ship carrying guns and a million bullets from Turkey to TC at the time of establishing the Republic of Cyprus. Tell us about Nihat Erim Plan for the recovery of Cyprus by Turkey. Tell us about todays statements by Mr Tatar that the whole of Cyprus belongs to Turkey. Tell us the whole & true history and not your bedstory. Meantime enjoy your protectorate established by Turkey in our stolen motherland after it had committed an ethnic cleaning and an endless list of war crimes against your Greekcypriot compatriots. Enjoy..
Hi,Jason
Good luck
If there is hope for this troubled world of ours, it is in the laughter of those children, playing in the streets, after the heat of the day.
I crossed the border over a week ago, x 1 night in famagusta, x 1 night in girne, was definately worth the visit as i went on holiday to girne 20 yrs ago when you could fly direct from the UK with a refuel at istanbul, alot had changed
Thank you for great video
The guy who sold you that baklava seems nice, I would totally buy his baklava
Lovely video Jason.I have been to Cyprus numerous times and I absolutely love this country. I have spent many days North Nicosia. That kebap place you showed, I have had eaten there once and they did a really good job. The bars are really nice, I have been there too. Btw there are no restrictions on passport for crossing border from the Greek side however not all passport holders can enter the greek side if their port of entry was iN TRNC. Which guest house did you choose to stay?
Good to know. My guest house was called Bougainvillea Garden, nice place.
This guy is adorable with his dot eyes and soft voice.
Thank you Jason loved the video.
Hello J. B. good to see you once again
You are the best dude💪
Amazing! Wish for PEACE for both Turkish and Greek Cypriots! With WAR BOTH GET LOSS! But peace will make both prosper!
Thank you for showing something of the Old Quarter of North Nicosia. I made the crossing many times before the pandemic while I was living in Girne. I noticed from your vlog how the checks at the Green Line have become steadily more informal. Opposite the last taxi stop before the Green Line I used to visit the No.3 Restaurant and got to know the staff a bit. If you walk past the monument, on your right you willl find a side street where minibuses leave for Girne.
So...
Where is the Girne video? I was looking forward to this journey continuing. Did the trip get cancelled and you went to Milan next?
10:30 it is my granddad’s shop. he used to be one of the first photographers of cyprus.
You are awesome bro I love your vlogging very much
thanks for staying on topic (Nicosia)
Love 💕 seeing the video from Buffalo New York USA
Note: Lots of buildings falling down because they're old in disrepair; not always due to conflict.
North lefkosa is my home town these old buildings left to history alongside what's called green line ,designed by British year 1954
Hi Jason, nice video again! My question is: Do you remember this Cinema-like cafe/restaurant name or location, please?
I really liked you great everyone with marhaba. That is a show of respect.
MANY TOUCH HIM AND ARE MADE WELL!!
When they had crossed over, they came to the land of Gennesaret and anchored there. And when they came out of the boat,
immediately the people recognized Him, ran through that whole surrounding region, and began to carry about on beds those who were sick to wherever they heard He was.
Wherever He entered, into villages, cities, or the country, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged Him that they might just touch the hem of His garment.
And as many as touched Him were made well.
And cheers to you Jason from Arizona USA. What a interesting island Cyprus . Divided by Greek and Turkey. Only would I know the actual scenery through your video. Peace. And I will keep following you.
Thank you
Thanks Daniel
th-cam.com/video/NsXwNNcOtX8/w-d-xo.html
Divided by uk and turkey .
@@alondon6950 the War involved Greek and Turkish Cypriots. Then Greece and Turkey got involved directly in 1974. The Greek Cypriot and Greek actions also contributed to the division of Cyprus.
@@JC19676 that incorrect the greek junta was directly involved the movemetn of Enosis sought the annexation of the island with greece. THe Akridis Plan the brain child of Makarious and Athens. Makarious is on record ( Re. UN General Asembly ) stating greece had invaded and caused & pleeded the UN ot reinstate teh collpased constition . That admission is avainble online.
Good luck coming back 😄 🤣 😂
I liked the kids playing on the street st night
Jason should have been born in a warmer climate. You can just tell he’s drawn to hotter places and I’d say to those ancient/remote countries/cities retaining some sort of ‘rocky’ and long history too. I might be wrong but that’s just my impression:).
I think you’re in the right ballpark!
@@JasonBillamTravel I loved watching your Italy’s vlogs and through my observations you seemed to have had a great time in Naples out of all the cities you visited which is also the most chaotic one and the city with the most complicated history/situation too.
I hold a Brunei passport and I crossed the border for a day in 2018. I think the immigration from the south wants to make sure, we will be able to return back
That’s right
@@JasonBillamTravel looking forward to more of your videos from Northern Cyprus. Happy travels 🤗
Crossing from South to North is relatively simple. The reverse is not always so.
Did you fly into the south first?
@@MuzzaHukka yes, i flew to the south first..then crossed over at Ledra St
Thank you for coming to Turkish part of cyprus Jason. Enjow your time there ! Sorry about the some kids. They were a little bit ''fırlama'' /Brat ( as we call in Turkish) 😅
th-cam.com/video/NsXwNNcOtX8/w-d-xo.html
Sen alt insan misin ? Ne diye el âlemin çocukları adına özür diliyorsun.
@@seref9752 Çocuklar rahatsız etmiş. Turist sayısı azalmasın. Kıbrıs Türk devletinin imajı korunmalı. Daha dünyaya tanıtacağız ülkeyi
Thank You for taking us across the Border. The Turkish coffee reminded me of how much I missed Istanbul & Turkey. Cheers Jason ☘✌.
th-cam.com/video/NsXwNNcOtX8/w-d-xo.html
Nice video😘
hoping for one Cyprus , like fall of berlin wall
TRNC is a lovely friendly part of CYPRUS and the people are honest and kind. It’s a pity that the Cypriot people don’t believe in becoming one country again😢life is too short it’s is what you make it. The towns in the TRNC have high rise flats with modern building and wonderful museums with historical sites, really interesting 🤔. Really worth a visit or a holiday
There was a huge line the day we crossed in October 2018. You were lucky.
Oh interesting!
The beautiful universal sound of children laughing and playing bonds us all. Children do not care about these flags and borders that have been put up to limit and bind us. God willing the children will use this power to one day tear down these walls and unite us all.
For this kind of activity, you need Insta 360 GO2.
Very interesting place.
It's weird how un documented this is worldwide. I would love to see the whole of the North side of cyprus and how different life is on the same island. Totally different in this video from South Side
SHAME!! As a Turkish Cypriot, I was just ashamed of this video. It truly devastates me to see the state our beautiful Cyprus has fallen into. Cyprus has become a dirty, disorderly place where no Cypriot lives anymore. Turkish Cypriots are being assimilated by Turkish people, as clearly seen in the video, and perhaps in another 20 years, there will be nothing left of our culture and society. SAD
With Out the Turks in the 1970' s your Country wouldnt even exist
Salak türk turkemi asimile oldu Siz zaten rumsunuz ondan boylesiniz.Birdaha kimseyi bulamayacaksınız yanınızda.
Wow, those shops are incredible, the photo of the woman and the other with the older man are incredible. The area reminds me of my childhood in Malta. Thank you for this interesting video, would love to visit Cyprus, both north and south.
It's weird...looks like the streets are very empty in Northern Cyprus...the marketplace has a bit more activity, but deeper inside streets seem empty.... this is my impression as an outside..never been there but would love to go insha Allah
another great review of my beautiful Country Cyprus .. if possible can you visit my home town Yeşilırmak
th-cam.com/video/NsXwNNcOtX8/w-d-xo.html
Not really appropriate to say you love the fact the Turkish flags flying from the mosque can be seen in southern Cyprus. The situation is still very raw to many Cypriots!
Also not appropriate because it’s literally an occupation. It’s like saying you love the fact that Israeli flags can be seen by Palestinians
The selimiye “mosque” is also literally an example of colonisation
@ I think your comparison is not really appropriate as well, let alone accurate
This might be the most uninformed comment on TH-cam. His assessment of everything in this video was from his point of view as a British tourist. This is not a historical video.
yeah the type of the guy who would love Russian flags flying over conquered Kiev.
15:33 I don't think it is an entrance to the Schengen zone as Cyprus is not a part of Schengen Area
Nice vlog video 😊
Hey mate, did you cross to Turkey after North Cyprus? Do you know whether it's possible to leave the island that way instead of coming back to the Rep. of Cyprus?
you can of course
Of course you can. It's a free country just like any other. Just coz it's not recognised, it doesn't mean you are restricted. Come on you guys get a life and stop protraying north Cyprus as a monstrous land
Does most shops and people speak English or is communication a problem?
Boom boom is super :))
Just found out from 23 and me I was part Cypriot… not sure if this originated from the Greek or Turkish side though. They just highlighted the entire island 🫠
The Turkish population is a new addition in Cyprus in just the last 500 years since the Ottoman invasion and occupation.
The indigenous population is the Greek that have inhabited the island for thousands of years. DNA records refer to the indigenous population.
so funny i know every step of the streets on the Greek side and now at my 30s i saw first time from a youtube video how is the other side..
I'm sorry about the question but next week on Saturday me and my bf will traveling to Cyprus and I'm worried about something, do they need covid vaccination or PCR things?
hosgeldin
Interesting place.
who takes care of the buildings and grounds in the buffer zone? They look tidy and well-maintained
I assume the UN
Spent 5 years in North Cyprus back in 90s while i was studying in university in Famagusta. It is an amazing placecto be sort of cut off from the rest of the world but still alive and kicking.
Nice to see kids playing in the street...happiest kids around. Shame it's not like that in most places anymore!