If you want to live abroad in a country like Cyprus, then you should learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of living there before making definite plans. There are many great reasons why living in Cyprus can be good and many reasons why you should not. Cyprus has a lot to offer anyone. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of living in Cyprus, which I have experienced in the last four years whilst living there myself.
Advantages of Living in Cyprus
The sea is on your doorstep. Beaches are nearby giving lots of water sports and fun. Cyprus is known for its very hot summers and warmer climate in winter months, therefore living in a villa is very becoming if you have a private pool.
Visiting other countries for a day or short break, such as, Greece, Rhodes, Egypt and Turkey is easier and quicker. Cruises from Cyprus around Europe are very popular too.
It is cheaper to buy property there or just renting a property, which is half the price compared to the United Kingdom.
Vehicle road tax is far cheaper than the United Kingdom road tax.
Working on a beach or at a water park can be fun for young people, so there is more work available like that in Summer months.
Snow falls on Troodos Mountains in the winter months of January to February where skiing is permitted. Many expats visit Troodos during this time. It is a welcoming break.
The views and scenery of Cyprus are beautiful and a more outdoor life always takes place. The fresh air is a bonus if you suffer from asthma.
There are many UK expats living in Cyprus already. So, if living in an English community is more suitable, then Paphos will be the most suitable place to mix with other expats.
Visiting the North of Cyprus from the South is now easily accessible. Crossing the Green Line at Nicosia has become more popular for expats whether they walk over or drive over. Most people go there, because the cost of living is much cheaper. Grocery shopping is very cheap there.
The country’s crime rate is very low and it is one of the safest countries to live in compared to the United Kingdom.
Children growing up in Cyprus are free to be outside without parents worrying about them. Parents move to different countries, because they want a safe environment for their children and Cyprus is one of them.
Private education is a lot cheaper compared to private education in the United Kingdom. Of course, local Greek Cypriot schools are free and expat children are welcome there too. Younger children do very well in the Greek Cypriot schools these days where they learn the language fluently. Further education can be sought in Nicosia by going to the University of Nicosia, but most Cypriots and expat children go back to the United Kingdom universities.
The standard of hospital care in Cyprus is very good. The NHS is standard, but private hospitals are very cheap. A General Practitioner Doctor can be seen regularly in your area where a small charge is made of around twenty euro per person.
Disadvantages of Living in Cyprus
Since the euro took over, it has become very expensive to live in Cyprus. Utility bills like electric, refuse tax and water are now very high.
Supermarket and grocery shopping is expensive compared to living in the United Kingdom. Since the change to the euro, it has become increasingly expensive in Cyprus.
The employment pay in Cyprus is very low, so do not expect to get a high paid job there. The pay to work in a hotel as receptionist is approximately about 700 euros per month.
There is not enough work in Cyprus in winter months. It becomes quiet and out of season, so there are shortage of jobs in bars, hotels and restaurants. This has become much worse since the economy hit Cyprus. Many businesses have fallen and closed down recently. I know this, as I was there for the last four years.
Working in a hot country can be a bother at times. It depends where you work and whether there is air conditioning in an office or not, because no matter what, air conditioning is definitely needed in June to September months.
If you are thinking of relocating to Cyprus without Employment in place, then it is advisable to take additional savings to cover you until employment is in place, but at present Cyprus employment is considerably very low.
The tourist market has been badly hit with economy problems, which started in 2009 and is supposed to get worse this year of 2010 according to the government of Cyprus. Cyprus has hit difficult times all over.
