Living in Cyprus
Cyprus enjoys a high European standard of living. According to Interpol statistics, the crime rate is only 1/6 of the average crime rate in Europe, which makes Cyprus an ideal place to live and raise a family. The cost of living in Cyprus is relatively low compared to that of other European countries and to the high quality of life. A social couple living in Cyprus can easily have a comfortable lifestyle.
About Cyprus
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean. It covers an area of 9.251 square kilometres and has a population of approximately 700,000.
Cyprus became independent in 1960 following years of resistance to British rule. The entire island entered the EU on 1 May 2004, but the acquis communautaire applies only to the areas under direct Republic of Cyprus control, and is suspended in the the northern area of the Republic of Cyprus, which is under military occupation by Turkey since 1974. At present, every Cypriot carrying a Cyprus passport has the status of a European citizen; however, EU laws do not apply to northern Cyprus. Its excellent infrastructure, high quality of life, low cost of living and generous tax incentives attract people to the island from all over the world. Cyprus is an island of tradition, charm and romance. Cyprus is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Mediterranean, attracting over 2.4 million tourists per year.
The capital of the island is Nicosia. Other major cities are Famagusta, Paphos, Limassol and Larnaca.
Etymology
The name ”Cyprus” has a somewhat uncertain etymology. One suggestion is that it comes from the Greek word for the Mediterranean cypress tree (Cupressus sempervirens), “κυπάρισσος” (kypárissos), or even from the Greek name of the henna plant (Lawsonia alba), “κύπρος” (kýpros). Another school suggests that it stems from the Eteocypriot word for copper. Georges Dossin, for example, suggests that it has roots in the Sumerian word for copper (zubar) or for bronze (kubar), from the large deposits of copper ore found on the island. Through overseas trade, the island has given its name to the Classical Latin word for the metal through the phrase aes Cyprium, "metal of Cyprus", later shortened to Cuprum. Cyprus is also called "the island of Aphrodite", since the Greek goddess Aphrodite, of beauty and love, was born in Cyprus. The most common theory is that it came from their word for copper, Kypros, because the island had rich deposits of copper.
Cyprus: A brief history
History in Cyprus dates as far back as 7000 BC, the Neolithic Age, with settlements along the north and south coasts of the island.
After 1400 BC, the first Greeks came to the island, Mycenaean merchants, who started the Hellenisation of the island.
By 1050 BC, Cyprus can be considered a Greek island, with the language, culture and religion of Greece well established. Cyprus has ten city-kingdoms and by 800 BC it is a flourishing and prosperous country.
From 750, BC Cyprus is conquered several times by Assyria, Egypt and Persia. In 333 BC, Alexander the Great claims Cyprus for part of his empire. Cyprus continues to be part of the Hellenist Empire until 58 BC.
In 58 BC, Cyprus becomes part of the Roman Empire. Saint Paul is converted to Christianity whilst in Cyprus, and Cyprus becomes the first country governed by a Christian.
After the division of the Roman Empire, Cyprus becomes part of Byzantium, with Constantinople as its capital.
In 1191 AD, Cyprus is defeated by the crusader Richard the Lionheart. The island is then sold to the Knights Templar, who resell it to Guy de Lusignan. From 1192 to 1489, Cyprus is ruled under a feudal system and Catholicism becomes the official religion.
In 1489, control of the island passes to the Venetians who take steps to fortify the island and build walls around the towns of Nicosia and Famagusta.
In 1571, Ottoman troops invade the island, and Cyprus becomes part of the Ottoman Empire. Islam is introduced to the island and Catholicism is expelled. The Greek Orthodox religion is restored.
In 1878, under the Cyprus Convention, Britain assumes administration of the island, although it remains part of the Ottoman Empire. In 1914 however, when the Ottomans entered the 1st World War on the side of the Germans, Britain annexed the island. In 1923 Turkey relinquishes all rights to Cyprus, and in 1925 Cyprus is declared a Crown colony.
An armed struggle breaks out in 1955 against colonial rule, which lasts until 1960 when the island is granted independence.
In 1963, Turkish-Cypriot ministers withdraw from the Government in protest at proposed changes to the Constitution, and Turkey threatens to invade.
In 1974, the Greek junta instigates a coup in Cyprus against the Cypriot Government, and Turkey uses that as an excuse and invades the island.
Turkey continues to illegally occupy 37% of the island, violating the UN charter. It has established the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, an illegal state, recognized only by Turkey and continues to maintain the division of the island through force.
Geography
The third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea (after Sicily and Sardinia), Cyprus is situated in the eastern Mediterranean, just south of the Anatolian peninsula (or Asia Minor) of the Asian mainland; thus, it is often included in the Middle East. Turkey is 75 kilometres (47 mi) north; other neighbouring countries include Syria and Lebanon to the east, Israel to the southeast, Egypt to the south, and Greece to the southwest.
However, historically, politically and culturally Cyprus is closely aligned with Europe – the Greek Cypriots with Greece and the Turkish Cypriots with Turkey. Historically, Cyprus has been at the crossroads between Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa, with lengthy periods of mainly Greek and intermittent Anatolian, Levantine, and British influences. Though these influences may cause some to consider Cyprus as a transcontinental island, such a term is properly applied only to nations whose boundaries straddle more than one continent e.g. Turkey, Russia and Egypt.
The central plain, the Mesaoria, is bordered by the Kyrenia and Pentadactylos mountains to the north, and the Troodos mountain range to the south and west. There are also scattered, but significant, plains along the southern coast. Long and one of the most beautiful beaches are located in the southeast Cyprus in Protaras and Ayia Napa. The island's highest point is at the summit of Mount Olympus 1,952 metres (6,404 ft), in the heart of the Troodos range.
Climate
Cyprus enjoys a mild Mediterranean type climate, short mild winters and long warm summers. Cyprus has something to offer every month of the year, whether it's swimming (as late as November) or enjoying cultural sites and festivals (all year long). While seasonal fluctuations are not drastic, however, they are different. It is for its excellent climate and for the hospitality of its people, that Cyprus has become such a popular destination for Europeans who come to Cyprus as tourists at first, and after a couple of visits, they decide to buy a house in order to live here permanently.
Seasons in Cyprus
Spring
In spring time, Cyprus is a diversiform landscape
The Cyprus landscape displays a great variety of styles. The coast has large open bays and precipitous cliffs and rocks. There are sandy beaches and shingle beaches. The precipitous mountains are mainly tree-covered to their peaks. The rest of the island is fertile hilly country.
Summer
Summer usually lasts from May/June until the end of September. After the colourful spring time the summer displays the warmer gold yellow and brown colours of the arid, sun burned landscape. The few rivers that were flowing with water in spring are now dried up. The blue sky is a strong contrast to the bright yellow fields of corn. Spots of colour are provided by the blooms of pink and white oleander. Only the trees remain a magnificent green. They are a nice, fresh relief in the dust covered environment.
Autumn
Autumn begins with the first rainfalls, usually about the end of September/beginning of October. Overnight the earth seems to wake up and becomes alive again. For the second time in the year, the island delights nature-lovers with blossoms and blooms of many different kinds of flowers. Wild fields and grasses turn suddenly from brown to green. The air smells fresh and clean and the trees are a bright fresh green after the dusty summertime.
Winter
Winter at the coast appears little different to autumn. Some deciduous trees lose their leaves, the sea becomes rough and the sky can be cloudy. The rich yellow and orange of the citrus fruits, which are now ready to be picked, provide a splash of colour.
In the mountains it often rains and in the higher reaches snow falls and covers the landscape in a real winter dream.
Religion
Most Greek Cypriots, and thus the majority of the population of Cyprus, are members of the Greek Orthodox Church. According to Eurobarometer 2005, Cyprus is one of the most religious countries in Europe, along with Malta, Romania, Greece and Poland.
Language
The official languages of Cyprus are Greek and Turkish, but due to the facts that Cyprus was once a British colony, more than 90% of the population speaks English. As a result all street signs, direction signs, shop signs, restaurant menus, etc. are written in English.
Demographics
According to the last census carried out by the Republic in 1960, Greek Cypriots comprise 77% of the island's population, Turkish Cypriots 18%, while the remaining 5% are of other ethnicities. However, after the Turkish invasion of 1974, about 150,000 Turks from Anatolia were transferred or decided to settle in the north. This has changed the actual demographic structure of the island. Northern Cyprus now claims 265,100 inhabitants, closer to 30% of the population of the island. The TRNC has granted citizenship to these immigrants: however, as the TRNC is not recognised by the Republic or the international community (with the exception of Turkey), its power to create new citizens is not recognised and the newcomers retain Turkish passports. The result of this situation is that percentage population estimates vary widely.
In the years since the census data were gathered in 2000, Cyprus has also seen a large influx of guest workers from countries such as Thailand, the Philippines and Sri Lanka, as well as major increases in the numbers of permanent British residents. The island is also home to a significant Armenian minority, as well as a large refugee population consisting of people mainly from Serbia, Palestine and Lebanon. There is also a Kurdish minority present in Cyprus.
Since the country joined the European Union, a significant Polish population has also grown up, joining sizeable communities from Russia and Ukraine (mostly Pontic Greeks, immigrating after the fall of the Eastern Bloc), Bulgaria, Romania and Eastern European states.
There is also a significant and thriving Cypriot Diaspora in other countries, with the United States, the United Kingdom, Greece and Australia hosting the majority of migrants who fled the Turkish invasion in 1974.
Transport and communication
There is a wide network of air routes connecting Cyprus with Europe, Africa and Asia. The island has two international airports. Cyprus has an excellent telecommunications service.
Society
The Cypriots have earned themselves a reputation as hardworking and industrious people with a flair for business. Tradition and family-ties are still strong in what is also a liberal and pluralistic society. There is a high standard of education on the island, which has one of the highest percentages of university graduates in the world. Most professional and academic qualifications are gained either at the local University or Colleges, but mostly at EU and American universities.
Cypriots enjoy a high standard of living. As an example, around 70% of homes are owner occupied, and there are no records of homelessness. The crime rate is low on the island. Cyprus is an ideal location to visit and live.
People
The people of Cyprus are known for their hospitality and friendliness. The crime in Cyprus is almost non-existent.
Education
Cyprus has a well-developed system of primary and secondary education offering both public and private education. The high quality of instruction can be attributed to a large extent to the above-average competence of the teachers. State schools are generally seen as equivalent in quality of education to private-sector institutions. However, the value of a state high-school diploma is limited by the fact that the grades obtained account for only around 25% of the final grade for each topic, with the remaining 75% assigned by the teacher during the semester, in a minimally transparent way. While a high-school diploma is mandatory for university attendance, admissions are decided almost exclusively on the basis of scores at centrally administered university entrance examinations that all university candidates are required to take. The majority of Cypriots receive their higher education at Greek, British, Turkish, other European and North American universities. Private colleges and state-supported universities have been developed by both the Turkish and Greek communities.
Cuisine
Halloumi, (a cheese made from a mixture of goat's and sheep's milk) originates from Cyprus, and it is commonly served sliced and grilled as an appetizer. Seafood dishes of Cyprus include calamari (squid), octopus in red wine, (red mullet), and sea bass. Cucumber and tomato are used widely in Cypriot cuisine. Other common vegetable preparations include potatoes in olive oil and parsley, pickled cauliflower and beets, kolokasi (taro) and asparagus. Meat dishes marinated in dried coriander seeds and wine, and eventually dried and smoked, such as lountza, charcoal-grilled lamb (souvla), sheftalia (minced meat wrapped in mesentery), as well as cracked wheat (pourgouri) are some of the traditional delicacies of the island.
Music
The traditional folk music of Cyprus has many common elements with Greek mainland and island folk music, including dances like the sousta, syrtos, zeibekikos, tatsia, and the kartsilamas. The instruments commonly associated with Cyprus folk music are the lute ("laouto"), violin ("fkiolin"), accordion and the Cyprus flute ("pithkiavlin"). There is also a form of musical poetry known as "chattista", which is often performed at traditional feasts and celebrations. Composers associated with traditional music in Cyprus include Evagoras Karageorgis, Marios Tokas, Solon Michaelides, Savvas Salides. Pop music in Cyprus is generally influenced by the Greek pop music "Laïka" scene, with several artists such as Anna Vissi and Evridiki earning widespread popularity. Cypriot rock and "entechno" rock music is often associated with artists such as Michalis Hatzigiannis and Alkinoos Ioannidis. Metal also has a following in Cyprus, represented by bands such as Winter's Verge, Blynd and Armageddon Rev.
Events
More than a place just for lounging in the sun, there’s lots of things happening in Cyprus all the year round. From cultural performance with big name stars, sports events to participate in or watch religious festivals with all the pomp and circumstance of the Greek Orthodox Church, to informative conferences where you can meet like minds. You’ll be surprised at what you can enjoy here.
"Kataklysmos" - Flood Festival in Protaras and Ayia Napa
A Greek Orthodox festival with strong pagan roots focusing primarily on water, Kataklysmos or Festival of the Flood marks the day of the Holy Spirit. Coastal cities make the most of the opportunity, staging concerts and games near the waterfront, but even inhabitants of inland towns and particularly children – their water guns a necessary accessory, enjoy a good ‘splash’. The feast of the Pentecost or Whitsun is marked 50 days after Greek Orthodox Easter. It is known also as the day of the Holy Spirit as it celebrates the descent of the Holy Ghost to the Apostles. In Cyprus, the celebrations also hark back to the Old Testament tale of Noah’s Ark, the Greek myth of Deukalion and ancient ceremonies in honour of Aphrodite and Adonis. Protaras and Ayia Napa are particularly proud of the festivities it puts on for several days to celebrate Kataklysmos. The sea front promenade takes on the appearance of an open-air fair with scores of stalls selling toys and traditional food. Traditional culture takes pride of place with a competition for “chatista” or rhyming songs in the Cypriot dialect. Other performers include popular Greek and Cypriot singers and dance troupes. In line with the spirit of the celebrations, events include competitions in the water.
Government and Legal System
As of 1st of May 2004, Cyprus is a member of the EU and almost all its directives have been incorporated in Cyprus laws.
Cyprus and the EU
The Republic of Cyprus is a member of the European Union as from 1 May 2004. The accession of Cyprus in the EU and the adoption of the acquis communittaire have given rise to new challenges and opportunities in the business world in Cyprus. Moreover a number of new funding opportunities became available from EU funds aiming mainly to support the development of business activities in the area of manufacturing, agriculture and agro tourism as well as the promotion of human resource development and the development of the rural areas of the island.
Cyprus has entered the European Exchange Mechanism (ERMII) on 2 May 2005 as a first step towards the adoption of the Euro as the official currency on 1 January 2008.
The Economy
Cyprus has an open free market economy. The performance of the economy has been such that it has combined, high real growth, with low inflation and low unemployment. Trade and tourism are the most important sectors. Professional services are also thriving.
Foreign trade:
International trade is of considerable importance to the Cyprus economy. On the production side, the lack of raw materials, energy resources and heavy industry for the production of capital goods necessitates the importation of such input. On the demand side, because of the small size of the domestic market, exports are vital in supplementing aggregate demand for Cypriot agricultural, mineral and manufacturing products.
The European Union and the neighbouring Middle Eastern countries absorb the majority of Cyprus’ exports.
Cyprus imports large quantities of durable consumer goods, capital equipment and raw materials mainly from the European Union and oil from the neighbouring Middle East countries in order to satisfy its growing domestic market and industrial needs.
Banking Facilities
There are excellent banking facilities, and banks in Cyprus have set up the necessary infrastructure to assist international business to open bank accounts within Cyprus or anywhere in the world and make transfers of funds through simple instructions, by fax or the Internet with quick execution.
Infrastructure for international businesses
Cyprus has set up everything that is necessary to accommodate international businesses. The government is willing to provide all necessary assistance. Cyprus is a trustworthy European IBC's centre. It is not considered as a tax haven. It is considered as a respectable International Business Centre. It is internationally acceptable, that serious businesses from all over the world set up companies in Cyprus to access other markets of the world.
Cyprus has complied with the OECD and EU regulations, regarding the issue of harmful tax competition and complied with the criteria set by the Financial Action Task Force, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Council of Europe (COE) in the fight against money laundering.
Investment from European Union countries
As a result of the entry of Cyprus into the European Union, all restrictions as regards the acquisition of shares in a company registered in Cyprus by investors from the European Union have been abolished.
In the case of companies offering banking services, the Central Bank of Cyprus will still vet any investments in case that the holding exceeds 10% of the company’s share capital.
In the case of companies offering investment services (licensed Cypriot Investment Firms), significant changes in shareholdings must be approved by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission.
Investment from European Union countries
Cyprus is an attractive place for investment. The strategic location of the island, its excellent climate, the well-developed infrastructure and the plentiful supply of high quality, well trained labour are some of the advantages Cyprus has to offer. In addition to these, the favourable tax regime and the availability of a free zone area, make Cyprus an ideal location for manufacturers, especially those with Middle East/North African export activities.
As a consequence of the Government’s general policy of non-intervention in business operations and as part of the process of adopting EU regulations, a new investment law was passed in July 2003 by the House of Representatives. The official government policy is welcoming to foreign investment provided that this does not have adverse environmental effects.
The services sector in Cyprus
The services sector has become increasingly important as indicated by its 70% contribution to GDP and its share in employment, while the importance of agriculture and manufacturing is declining steadily.
Services include banking and financial services, insurance, advertising, legal, architecture and civil engineering, accounting and auditing, consultancy, design, electrical and mechanical engineering, market research, medical, printing and publishing, public relations, education, software development, tourism and related services. The size and rate of growth of this sector, which has been the fastest in recent years, has led some observers to call Cyprus a "service economy".
Shopping in Cyprus
There are many excellent value products to be bought in Cyprus and all the main towns offer busy shopping centres and bustling markets. There are also Cyprus Handicraft Centres in all the major towns, offering a wide selection of locally produced items. Shops are closed all day Sunday and on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. However, in the tourist areas, shops usually stay open late in the evenings and all day Sunday.
In particular, Cyprus is noted for its leather goods, especially jackets, handbags and shoes; for handmade lace, and for high quality jewellery. Spectacles are very good value, often being offered at substantially lower prices than in Europe. Visitors to the mountain village of Lefkara will be able to see the villagers hard at work making their traditional lace and filigree silver products. In the other mountain villages good buys include homemade honey and sweets such as sujouko and palouze, which are made from grapes.
Ceramics are also very popular, with potteries in all the major towns offering a wide selection of brightly painted pots, plates and other gift items. High on many tourist shopping list is the famous Cyprus Delight, and visitors can visit the many workshops around the island that produce it, for a free taste and to see how it is made.
Cyprus is also well known for its wines and many wineries and breweries offer tours around their premises. Specialties of Cyprus include Cypriot brandy, the famous dessert wine, Commandaria, the orange liqueur Filfar, and Keo beer. Many locally produced spirits are also available and are much cheaper than well-known brands.
Sports in Cyprus
The mild climate in Cyprus means that sports enthusiasts can enjoy sporting activities all year round.
Golfers can choose from two golf courses near Paphos. The Tsadha Golf Club is situated near Tsadha village about 12 km north of Paphos. It is an 18 hole course which plays to a par 72, total length 6 050 metres.
The Secret Valley Golf Course is located between Paphos and Limassol, about 18 km from Paphos. It also plays to a par 72 and is 6 300m long.
Hiking is a very popular pastime in Cyprus, due to the large areas of unspoiled countryside. Many specialist companies offer excursions and these are an excellent way for tourists to discover Cyprus. In addition there are numerous sign-posted trails all over the island.
Sea sports are also very popular due to the calm and clear waters surrounding the island. All nature of water-sports can be pursued including water-skiing, scuba diving, wind-surfing and sailing. Trained instructors are also on hand to offer assistance and tuition.
Water-lovers will also like to try Water Park near Ayia Napa. "Waterworld" has a large number of slides, an activity pool as well as a children's pool.
Although most people consider Cyprus a summer resort, winter sports can also be enjoyed in the brief Cyprus winter. The high Troodos mountain range sees some heavy snowfall enabling skiing from January often until March.
Travelling from Cyprus
Many tourists decide to spend their holidays on Cyprus, this beautiful and natural island in the east Mediterranean, not only because of it's beauty and history, but also to take the chance of short trips or Cruises to nearby places like Israel, Egypt or to the Greek islands. Many tour operators offer for example 2 or 3-day trips with a complete sightseeing program.
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