Living in Cyprus
Offering the perfect balance between work and relaxation, with long sunny days in a stress-free atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Cyprus enjoys an idyllic Mediterranean lifestyle, 340 days of sunshine a year and some of the most welcoming people in the world…all in a modern and well-functioning environment.
Imagine a life away from cold, rainy days and the hectic lifestyle that exists in most Western countries, but in a perfect sunny climate with crystal clear blue seas, forests, mountains and vibrant wild flowers throughout the year, in a relaxed atmosphere where the welcoming smiles of the locals make every visitor feel instantly at home. It is easy to see why Cyprus is emerging as one of the top destinations in which to relocate.
This beautiful island plays host to a wealth of contrasts: it is a country where east meets west; where traditions still play an important role in society but where life is never stuck in the past; it may be small but is never claustrophobic, always offering something new to discover; and life moves at a relaxed and gentle pace without ever being dull.
Culture, Heritage and Languages
Expats in Cyprus will get to know a culture which is as old as it is fascinating – no wonder, seeing how the islands has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The earliest human activity on Cyprus dates back a mind-boggling 12 millennia. The strategic importance of the island for major cultures in the Mediterranean and adjacent regions has led to its occupation and colonization by a large number of ancient civilizations, all of which have left indelible marks.
While the Ottoman Turks and the British have had the most recent impact on shaping life in Cyprus, the most obvious and strongest influence on the people living in Cyprus today has been that of the Greeks. At least as far as the Republic of Cyprus – the subject of this guide – is concerned, the Greek settlement, which began about 4,000 years ago, has most profoundly shaped local language and culture.
However, you should not expect living in Cyprus to be just like living in Greece. Not only are there definite cultural differences and peculiarities which are typically Cypriot, ranging from music to dishes such as the world-renowned Halloumi cheese; Cyprus is also a sovereign nation and not simply a part of the Greek mainland.Today, the majority of people in Cyprus are young, educated, and often fluent in more than two languages – commonly English and Russian, French, or German.
Colourful Culture
Lying at the crossroads of three continents, Europe, Asia and Africa, Cyprus has long served as a major Eastern trading post. Its location, abundance of mineral deposits, rich agriculture and highly skilled craftsmen has long made it a jewel in the crown of the powers of the day. Cultural influences came from all directions, with many civilisations leaving their mark on the island, contributing to the development of a rich and diverse cultural heritage.
Sea Caves, AyiaNapa
Large Expat Community
A former British colony, Cyprus gained its independence in 1960. A notable British presence remains to this day and Cyprus has become home to a large expat community. Today, Cyprus has the third highest percentage of foreign citizens in the European Union, with a total of 128,000. 78,000 or 9.8 per cent of the total population are from other EU member states, and 50,000 or 6.3 per cent of the total population are from non-EU countries according to a survey of the EU’s statistical office. The biggest group of expats living in Cyprus consists of British nationals, but there are also large communities of Americans, Russians and other Eastern European nationals.
Familiar Environment
Cyprus law is based on British law and the island’s banking system is modelled on the British banking system. The vast majority of Cypriots speak English and business is conducted in both Greek and English. Medical care in the Republic of Cyprus is good and meets Western standards. In fact, many of the physicians that practice in Cyprus were trained in either the UK or the United States. Purchasing real estate in Cyprus is straightforward; however, buyers should seek help from a lawyer in case complications arise. Renting or leasing an apartment in Cyprus is relatively affordable.
Natural Beauty
With around 340 days of glorious sunshine a year and a coastline teeming with endless stretches of golden sands, secluded bays and rocky coves, where better to relax at the end of the working day but by the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea? Or, for a respite from the heat and a complete change of scenery why not unwind with a drive through the picturesque Troodos Mountains? One of the beauties of Cyprus is that the relatively small size of the island means that you are always just a short journey away from anywhere you would like to visit.
Mediterranean Lifestyle and Cuisine
It is of course impossible to talk about Cyprus without mentioning the food. As with most Mediterranean countries food plays an important role and is to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace with friends and family. One of the first Greek phrases to learn in Cyprus is ‘siga siga’ which means ‘slowly slowly’, and is a mantra one will hear almost daily. The fabulous Cypriot food is to be savoured unhurriedly, usually al fresco with friends and family. Even a cup of coffee can be a two hour past time.
Life is meant to be enjoyed in Cyprus and the finer things in life should never be rushed. Cyprus cuisine is a unique blend of Greek and Arabic food heavily influenced by the Mediterranean diet, said to be one of the healthiest in the world. The best way to experience Cypriot cuisine is to savour the delights of a traditional meze – a seemingly endless succession of ‘small plates’ of wonderful home cooked fare including the famous Cypriot halloumi cheese as well as other delicacies such as moussaka, succulent homemade sausages known as sheftalia, grilled marinated meats and delicious casseroles to name but a few.
Anassa hotel, Polis
Excellent Infrastructure
Other factors that contribute to this enviable lifestyle include a superb road system with signs in both Greek and English, a reliable and efficient postal service, a large choice of schools, clubs, restaurants, gyms, theatres, cinemas, museums and art galleries. Added to this already attractive package there is the relatively low cost of living, the favourable taxation system and one of the lowest crime rates in Europe.
The local infrastructure is ideally suited for business people who need to get things done. Thanks to its modern road network, extensive port facilities and two international airports, travel and transport in and beyond Cyprus is fast, efficient and economical.
A Home in the Sun
The genuine warmth and hospitality of the Cypriot people ensure that any visitor to the island is made to feel instantly at home and with guaranteed sunshine and all the other benefits those come with living in Cyprus; it is hard to think of any other location more ideally suited to actually call home.
Quality of Life
The island boasted one of the highest per capita GDP in the European Union. This often came as a surprise to expats interested in living in Cyprus. After all, we are talking about a small island nation on the south-eastern edge of Europe. Having been an important strategic outpost and trade centre for millennia, Cyprus made the best of its location.
The quality of life in Cyprus is, of course, not only determined by the figures on your pay check but you may also get to enjoy a welcoming, warm-hearted culture, advanced infrastructure in most respects, and a very safe environment. The nation has a fairly low crime rate.