Looking back over the past 30 years of living in Cyprus, I have found that living here has been a truly unique experience. I prepared myself beforehand for my new life, but living in Cyprus still taught me some unexpected lessons.
Cyprus, with its wonderful sandy beaches and coastal towns, alongside the cool freshness of the Troodos mountain villages, its deep-rooted culture and its respected traditions, has offered me a wealth of personal discoveries. Here are some of the highlights.
Genuine Cyprus hospitality
Many speak of the friendliness of the Cypriots, especially towards the British, whether they are tourists or residents. And this is true. It stems from the British colonial era, when Cypriots respected modern British ideas, appreciated their โEuropeanโ mentality and enjoyed a blend of modern European and traditional lifestyles coexisting side by side.
When you befriend a Cypriot that friendship is made to last
This continued long after the British left the island and is still seen here today. Cypriots offer a genuine warmth with a real interest in your well-being. When you befriend a Cypriot that friendship is made to last! Cypriots will take pride in helping you to settle here โ itโs ingrained in their culture. They will invite you into their homes to make you feel welcome and they are always ready to share a friendly home-cooked meal.
Snoozing in Cyprus
The two-hour sleep time thatโs often added onto your lunch break has existed from time immemorial, although itโs now not practised everywhere in Cyprus. The siesta period was generally from lunchtime until 4pm. But over the years, larger supermarkets and service companies have remained open.
It originated as a respite from the sun during the summer months, before air conditioning became widely available. When I first came to Cyprus, I found siestas particularly annoying, always seeming to coincide with needing something from a shop!
But I learned that siesta periods could actually be a way to wind down and slow life up. So now I pop into my favourite street cafรฉ nearby (cafรฉs donโt have siestas!) or I enjoy a relaxing walk along the beachfront until the siesta finishes and Cypriot life resumes.
The Mediterranean climate
With its hot summers and mild winters, Cyprus has a climate that suits all tastes. Recently, we have had some sudden heavy rain after the hot summer season, so I have learned to adapt quickly to unexpected weather changes. You need to be prepared for these occasional rain showers, as they are known to turn into mini deluges. Yes, you will need to bring your Wellingtons! Be sure to keep them and your raincoat handy on these occasions to avoid a soaking.
A cool end to your morning walk, living in Cyprus
You should also be aware of the hot summer sun. A cloudless blue sky of course gives out relaxed holiday vibes, but Iโve learnt the importance of always putting on sunscreen as part of your daily routine, even to go on a simple shopping trip. The sun is always intensely hot and you must take frequent breaks in the shade. But what better excuse to sample the wonderful cold drinks that Cyprus offers, from cold coffee frappes to delicious cool beers.
Cypriot cuisine
Thereโs no doubt about it, Cypriots adore their food. They love creating it and they love eating it. Cuisine is an integral part of Cypriot culture, with halloumi cheese, souvla and the traditional meat or fish meze close to any Cypriotsโ heart. For me, these small ingredients symbolise all the generations of cooking from the Cypriot civilisations.
For Cypriots themselves, their food reflects a social time and how their culture is passed down through their connection with others. By learning how to cook these foods, Iโve made many friends here. Cypriots appreciate you taking the time to learn about their deep-rooted traditions. Actually, the same goes for the Greek language, and you can form close friendships though this.
Ancient and modern, not ancient versus modern
Just like British people, Cypriots never forget the events of the past. They like to reenact them through festivals, their craftwork such as pottery and lace making, and through their cuisine. But they also accept the modern aspects of life. You will find the ancient ruins of Limassolโs Kurion Amphitheatre, for example, which features unique outdoor theatre productions and gigs, alongside modern cafes and restaurants, and classy fashion boutique shops.
Or you can see modern wall art on the ancient city walls of Paphos, right next to modern global businesses. The past highlights the modern in Cyprus, and vice versa.
So, living in Cyprus is a story of genuine human connection. You will understand the Cypriotsโ warm hospitality and friendship, and their culture and traditions will encourage your respect for this ancient, rooted civilisation.
You will be able to slow down, embrace life at your own pace and regenerate yourself against the beautiful backdrop of the clear blue sea, golden sands and the sunny Mediterranean climate. I can guarantee that.
