Because no universities exist on Cyprus, many Turkish Cypriot students attend universities in Turkey, Britain, or the United States. Thanks to the healthy climate and well-organized health services, the people are generally healthy and the island, as a whole, is free of major diseases such as malaria and tapeworm cysts. Craftsmen skilled in calligraphy, ceramics, and metalwork help keep the Turkish culture alive in Cyprus. Rug weaving is also an important skill because rugs are part of the Islam prayer ritual. Girls and young women are responsible for weaving the beautiful rugs.
Marriage is important in a Muslim culture and Turkish Cypriot girls usually marry at a young age.
Marriages are usually between close kin, even between first cousins. Such intermarriage is common in a Muslim culture because it helps keep wealth within the extended family. They are known to be gentle, courteous, and hospitable to strangers. They are proud of their ethnic heritage and remain very loyal to Turkey. Almost all of the Turkish Cypriot are Muslims who practice Muslim ceremonies and follow Islamic beliefs.