Moving to Cyprus requires time, patience and local understanding. Many expats make the same mistakes, which end up costing them dearly – not only financially, but also emotionally. Here are ten things to avoid when moving.
Compare everything with your homeland
The first and most common mistake is to measure the Cypriot reality by the standards of your own country. Psychologically, this behavior is understandable - it allows a person to evaluate the new reality using the familiar coordinate system. However, you should not use this technique for too long. Instead of criticism and dissatisfaction with new circumstances, it is better to try to understand why everything works the way it does.
Rely too much on English
Many Cypriots speak excellent English, but knowing even a couple of phrases in Greek helps to establish informal communication. Simple “kalimera” and “efkharisto” can work wonders in everyday communication and help you quickly become “your own.”
Ignore local traditions and holidays
Cypriots deeply respect their traditions, especially religious ones. Easter, name days, Christmas, religious processions such as religious processions are all part of the cultural fabric of the island. Expats who show interest and respect for these customs and who know local holidays and observances often make local friends much more quickly.
Underestimate the heat and sun
In summer in Cyprus the sun is merciless. Beginners often get burned, overestimate their strength and forget to drink plenty of fluids. Sunscreen and a hat are not just advice, but a matter of health, including in the long term.
Overestimate the ease of bureaucratic procedures
Getting a Pinkslip, opening a bank account, registering a car - all of this can take longer than expected. Patience and politeness are more important here than irritation and “swinging of rights.”
Stay apart
Many visitors isolate themselves in a circle of other expats and have almost no contact with Cypriots. But it is local communication that helps to understand the spirit of the island and feel real integration. Participating in volunteer projects or cultural events opens many doors.
Do not take into account the seasonality of the economy
Some areas of Cyprus live in a tourist rhythm: in the summer there is activity, in the winter there is calm. This affects work, income and even mood. Newcomers, especially to coastal cities, are often unprepared for the quiet of winter when many popular spots close for the winter.
Ignore the GeSI medical system
It is important to understand how the GeSI system works. After all, private medicine outside of it is not a cheap pleasure. However, some expats, guided by stereotypes of their home country, prefer to ignore GeSI, since they consider it “state” (and therefore of poor quality). In fact, GeSI unites the public and private sectors, making the latter more accessible to people of all incomes.
Jump to conclusions
Cyprus is opening up slowly. Sometimes you need to live at least a year to understand how everything works here - from the climate to human relations. The main thing is not to rush and not look for some invented ideal “Western society” here. Cyprus politically belongs to the EU, but culturally and historically it is more of a Middle Eastern country, with all that that implies.
Living in “vacation mode” for too long
As the famous expression says, “tourism and emigration should not be confused.” One of the most invisible but dangerous mistakes is not switching in time from the tourist perception of the island to real life. Cyprus really looks like an endless resort: sun, sea, cafes on the waterfront, relaxed people. Many newcomers continue to live as if the vacation is not over - they spend more than they earn, do not plan for the future and lose a sense of the structure of society. But life in Cyprus is not an eternal vacation, but an opportunity to build a sustainable, measured lifestyle. Those who recognize this difference in time find a balance: they can enjoy island ease without losing sight of their goals.
