Living Working and Retiring in Cyprus
Living in this wonderful climate is lovely and there is much to be said for a more relaxed way of life and there are plenty of nice tax advantages to being here too. Consult your tax advisor to make the most of any tax breaks you can.
Unlike good old England, if you miss a sunny day and the chance to go to the beach, you know there will be another sunny day and beach opportunity along tomorrow. The time to really think about is when the initial novelty has worn off. What then?
For most folks that means finding a job in Cyprus. Earning a decent living here is very hard unless you are fortunate and many people have arrived only to leave much worse off than when they arrived. Some will inevitably find the grass is not as green as they thought. Others will find it greener.
Learning the language is not necessary, but try to learn a little. It can help. Expect to take around six months to adjust to life here. No matter how well prepared you are, Cyprus is a ‘who you know’ place, and making good contacts is very advisable. As anywhere else, you will meet good and bad in all walks of life.
Disbelieve in equal measure anyone who says it is the best place in the world, and the person who says it’s the worst place in the world. There are things for and against being in Cyprus as there are anywhere. In the end it will be what you make of it.
The cost of living in Cyprus is not cheap and many imported foodstuffs and drinks will cost much more than at home and the cost of petrol has risen recently. Cars are expensive to buy because of import duties.
Fresh pork is an excellent buy. Locally grown fruit and vegetables are usually good buys too. Going out to eat and drink too often is a great soaker of money unless you are earning plenty.
The best way to find bargains is to shop around and compare prices in different shops, or just ask others where the best places to shop are. You can then see for yourself. It is guaranteed that after six months you will still be finding shops you didn’t know existed.
Utility bills in Cyprus! Water and council tax rates here are much cheaper than the UK. Electricity is not however cheap.
Telephones are cheap enough with attractive mobile costs, but the internet is very pricey compared with the UK for a service that is little better than average. Satellite services, with a range of options are available from many outlets and unless you speak Greek or are a lover of poor quality TV, then satellite is a must.
Schooling here is also of a good standard and children generally fit in well and they do pick up the language quickly. You will also find private tuition readily available.
Cyprus also enjoys a relatively low crime rate. It is not crime free, but as a rule you are safe to walk the streets at night without fear of being attacked and you will find a general degree of honesty here that will surprise you. Leave something behind by accident and there is every chance someone will hand it in for you. Having said that, beware of the wolf in sheeps clothing.
The illegal occupation of the Island by Cyprus is still sorely felt after over 30 years and is a subject best left alone. Regular references are made to it and the current political situation and all the efforts being made to find a resolution to the problem in the weekly papers.
Finally buying property in Cyprus. There are thousands of properties available to rent and buy across the Island. Buy from a reputable developer or licensed agent. Find your own independent solicitor!
Look at other properties built by the developer, including some under construction to see the standard of build. Buy with your head and not your heart or you may regret it. Follow a few simple rules and your purchase should present no difficulties and you can settle down and enjoy the life in the sun. If you are at all unsure rent a property first before you make a decision.
