Although autumn seems to have missed its train this year, residents of Cyprus still anticipate the annual ritual of turning back the clocks, signalling the end of daylight saving time (DST).
On Sunday, October 29, 2023, at 4 a.m., people will bid farewell to DST, gaining an extra hour of sleep as they set their clocks one hour behind.
The practice of daylight saving time aims to make better use of natural daylight during the summer months by shifting the clocks forward one hour in March and then setting them back one hour in October. This allows people to make the most of the longer daylight hours and conserve energy.
The transition from DST to standard time occurs just before the start of winter, when the days grow shorter and nights longer. The change provides people with an extra hour of light in the morning but will mean earlier sunsets in the evening.
Travellers planning to visit or leave Cyprus should also be aware of the time change to prevent any scheduling conflicts.
While many welcome the extra hour of sleep and the return to standard time, some people may experience a temporary disruption in their sleep patterns as their bodies adjust to the new schedule. It’s advisable to maintain a consistent sleep routine and ensure a dark, quiet sleeping environment to help alleviate this transition.
