The official and predominant language in North Cyprus is Turkish.
The Turkish Cypriots have a regional dialect that differs from that spoken in Turkey, though the basic language is the same and there are rarely communication difficulties between the two.
English is widely spoken and understood with many Cypriots having lived in the UK or with relatives residing there – the language is also taught in Cypriot schools.
Russian, German and Greek languages are also common languages around the island.
A large majority of the Turkish-Cypriot population is considered Sunni Muslim. Most non-Muslims are expats or overseas labour from Europe, including members of the Roman Catholic Church, Anglican Church, Greek Orthodox Church and the Jewish Community.
Whilst the Muslim community attend religious services at mosques located in almost every village, other houses of worship namely churches, chapels and synagogues are scattered across North Cyprus.