Cyprus

Cyprus

Offering the perfect balance between work and relaxation, with long sunny days in a stress-free atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Cyprus enjoys an idyllic Mediterranean lifestyle, 340 days of sunshine a year and some of the most welcoming people in the world…all in a modern and well-functioning environment.

Can you imagine a life away from cold, wet days and the hectic lifestyle that exists in most Western countries, but in a perfect sunny climate with crystal clear blue seas, forests, mountains and vibrant wild flowers throughout the year? Offering a relaxed atmosphere, where the welcoming smiles of the locals make every visitor feel instantly at home. It is easy to see why Cyprus is emerging as one of the top destinations in which to relocate.

This beautiful island plays host to a wealth of contrasts: it is a country delicately positioned where east meets west; where traditions still play an important role in society but where life is never stuck in the past; it may be small but is never claustrophobic, always offering something new to discover; and life moves at a relaxed and gentle pace without ever being dull.

Despite the recent banking issues Cyprus offers a modern and sophisticated infrastructure punching well above its weight for a small eastern Mediterranean island.

Vibrant Culture

Lying at the crossroads of three continents, Europe, Asia and Africa, Cyprus has long served as a major Eastern trading post. It’s very location, abundance of mineral deposits, rich agriculture and highly skilled craftsmen has long made it a jewel in the crown of the powers of the day. Cultural influences came from all directions, with many civilizations leaving their mark on the island, contributing to the development of a rich and diverse cultural heritage. Recent developments in the islands growth have made it a central hub for foreign investors, driving the economy and infrastructure.

Growing  Expatriate Community

As a former British colony, Cyprus gained its independence in 1960. A notable British presence remains to this day and Cyprus has become home to a large expat community. At present Cyprus has the third highest percentage of foreign citizens in the European Union, with a total of 128,000. 78,000 or 9.8 per cent of the total population are from other EU member states, and 50,000, or 6.3 per cent of the total population are from non-EU countries according to a survey of the EU’s statistical office. The biggest group of expats living in Cyprus consists of British nationals, but there are also large communities of Americans, Russians and other Eastern European nationals.

The favorable tax benefits on offer in Cyprus have further increased the movement of ex pats to the island. Offereing just 5% income tax on pensions commuted to Cyprus and exceptional tax incentive for Cyprus incorporated companies with just 10% corporation tax.

Familiar Environment

Cyprus law has been based upon the British legal system and the island’s banking system is modeled on the British banking system! The vast majority of Cypriots speak English and business is conducted in both Greek and English. Medical care in the Republic of Cyprus is of an excellent standard and more than meets Western standards. In fact, many of the physicians that practice in Cyprus were trained in either the UK or the United States. Purchasing real estate in Cyprus is straight forward; however, we recommend that all buyers seek help from independent lawyers in case complications arise. Property prices in Cyprus have now dropped to a record all time low in the last 12 years, meaning there is a wealth of property bargains to be had in Cyprus at present. Renting or leasing an apartment in Cyprus is relatively affordable with property rental price starting from as little as 200 euro a month for one bedroom apartments.

Natural Beauty

With an average of  340 days of glorious sunshine a year and a coastline boasting endless stretches of golden sands, secluded bays and rocky coves, where better to relax at the end of the working day but by the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea? For those looking for  a respite from the heat and a complete change of scenery why not unwind with a drive through the picturesque Troodos Mountains? The mountainous range in the center of the island means to the north face of the Troodos you will find large pine forests and vast areas of unspoilt greenery, not often associated with the warm temperatures of this island. One of the beauties of Cyprus is that the relatively small size of the island means that you are always just a short journey away from anywhere you would like to visit. Skiing in the morning and sunbathing in the afternoon!

Mediterranean Lifestyle and Cuisine

It would be impossible to talk about Cyprus without mentioning the cuisine. As with many Mediterranean countries, food plays an important role and is to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace and always with friends and family. One Greek phrase you will become familiar with in Cyprus is ‘siga siga’ which means ‘slowly slowly’, and is a mantra one will hear almost daily. The fabulous Cypriot food is to be savored at a leisurely pace, usually al fresco with friends and family. Even a cup of coffee can be a two hour event.

Life is meant to be enjoyed in Cyprus and the finer things in life should never be rushed. Cyprus cuisine is a unique blend of Greek and Arabic food heavily influenced by the Mediterranean diet, said to be one of the healthiest in the world. The best experiences of Cypriot cuisine is to sample the delights of a traditional meze – a seemingly endless succession of ‘small plates’ of wonderful home cooked fare including the famous Cypriot halloumi cheese as well as other delicacies such as moussaka, succulent homemade sausages known as sheftalia, grilled marinated meats and cheeses, delicious casseroles to name but a few.

Modern Infrastructure

Other factors that contribute to this enviable lifestyle include a superb road system with signs in both Greek and English, a modern motorway system throughout the island and of course driving on the LEFT! A reliable and efficient and low cost postal service, a large choice of schools, delivering some of the highest standards across Europe, clubs, restaurants, gyms, theatres, cinemas, museums and art galleries. Added to this already attractive package there is the relatively low cost of living, the favorable taxation system and one of the lowest crime rates in Europe.

The local infrastructure is ideally suited for business people who need to get things done......... even in a Greek island! Thanks to its modern road network, extensive port facilities and two international airports, travel and transport in and beyond Cyprus is fast, efficient and economical.

Your Home in the Sun – Cyprus Resales

With the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Cypriot people this island will make you feel instantly at home and with guaranteed sunshine and all the other benefits that come with living in Cyprus, it is hard to think of any other location more ideally suited to actually call home.

We pride ourselves on offering some of the best Cyprus resale property on the island at the most competitive prices. We have a large but select portfolio of property for sale in Cyprus and aim to offer a professional, efficient and friendly service. Our services extend far beyond that of a simple Licensed & Registered Real Estate company in Paphos. Much like the rest of the island we gladly offer a wide variety of services to assist all our customers in every aspect of integrating in to Cypriot life. So whether you are buying a home in Cyprus or looking for a long term rental in Cyprus. West Copast properties are at your service.


National Geographic Islands: Cyprus