The Cyprus Lifestyle

Lifestyle

Lifestyle in Cyprus

Making the move to Cyprus could not be easier! 90% of the population speak English, road signs are typically in both languages, they drive on the left like the UK and the modern and efficient legal system is based on British system, which makes the decision to buy property in Cyprus and the process to do so relatively pain-free.

What you also get is over 340 days of sunshine, a much lower cost of living than the UK, 3 major golf courses in the Paphos region alone with 10 more planned in Cyprus, excellent low cost healthcare, outstanding levels of education, lower property prices than the UK and Spain and the lowest crime rate in Europe.

Health

Unlike some Mediterranean countries, Cyprus offers a very high standard of healthcare. It has been successful in eliminating common infections and parasitic diseases, and the level of morbidity resembles that of developed industrial nations.

All Cypriot doctors have qualified abroad; most in the UK or other major European countries. Healthcare in Cyprus is inexpensive, and as a British citizen in possession of a form E111, you are entitled to free healthcare under the European Union reciprocal agreements. In addition, each town has its own Government Hospital and numerous private clinics and hospitals with competent specialists in all fields. Paphos General Hospital is equipped with the latest medical technology and surgical apparatus.

Hospital visits cost less than CY£7.00; a prescription costs less than CY£4.00 and private visits to a doctor will cost about CY£10-15.00.

Education

Education in Cyprus is excellent. It is available to all residents, and children can attend Greek or international schools. Children can also be educated through pre-primary and primary schooling, secondary general and secondary technical/vocational schools and third level institutions, with English speaking primary and secondary schools in all towns.

There is a Greek speaking university and a number of English speaking third level institutions which are linked with UK and USA universities. A new university is planned in the Paphos area as part of ongoing developments making Paphos villas for sale particularly appealing to families with children.

Language

Greek is the official language in Cyprus, however, English is spoken by over 90% of the population, and all road signs and restaurant menus are written in both languages. Knowledge of French, German and Russian is also increasing within the tourism industry.

Currency Information

The official currency in Cyprus is the Cyprus Pound which is divided into 100 cents. The current rate of exchange is approximately 0.84 £ UK to one £CYP, however, Cyprus is adopting the Euro in 2008 as part of its entry in to the EU.

Culture

Cypriots are very proud of their cultural heritage which stretches back over 9000 years. However, today Cyprus is more concerned with the events of the last 30 years than those of a millennium ago; Northern Cyprus is focused on recreating itself in the image of Turkey, since the war in Cyprus 30 years ago, whilst the Republic (Southern Cyprus) is also trying to create an independent identity.

Cyprus has many reminders of the island's history, with relics from every era; Greek temples, Roman mosaics and 15th century frescoes. Like everything else in Cyprus, religion is split along the Green Line. Northerners are mostly Sunni Muslim, with southerners Greek Orthodox. Food too is reflected in the divide with mostly Turkish cuisine in the north and Greek in the Republic. Wherever you are in Cyprus however, you will find Kleftiko (oven-baked lamb) and mezedes (dips, salads and other appetizers).

Cyprus is also rich in fruit, which the government protects with a ban on imported products. Fresh fruit includes strawberries, stone fruit, melons, citrus and grapes.

Crime Rate

Crime is virtually unheard of in Cyprus, an aspect of life on the island which surprises and reassures visitors. This is another factor which makes Cyprus a popular destination for foreign buyers; the crime rate in Cyprus is approximately 6% of the UK and other European destinations. Whether for personal use or to let to others, the low crime rate makes it an appealing choice to buy property in Cyprus.

Places of Interest in the Paphos Region

Cyprus has a unique cultural tapestry comprising of prehistoric ancient Greek temples, Byzantine churches and monasteries, with outstanding mosaics and wall paintings. There are also a number of Crusader castles, Gothic churches and Venetian forts adding to the historical blend that makes Cyprus so special.

Among the many wonderful places to visit in Cyprus, one of the most beautiful sights in Paphos is "Petra tou Romiou" , the rock of Romios, where Aphrodite is said to have first landed on the island. The ‘Tombs of the Kings' in Coral Bay is a very interesting archaeological site along with Paphos harbour with its ancient castle, Dionysos wine mosaics and beautiful churches.

Akamas Peninsular National Park is also a popular destination, and just a short drive from Paphos.

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