Cyprus-Forum.com

[monkeyp57]

Hi Everyone,
I'm new to this board and am keen to share your knowledge and experiences.
My husband and I are planning a visit to Cyprus in the next week or so, to look at properties, however we didn't want to limit ourselves on a specific inspection visit, so have decided to go it alone, is this wise, just didn't want to feel pressured into anything.

I have been researching areas and have selected a number of properties to view, but it all seems a bit daunting.
Just wondered if anyone could offer me any advice and reassurance.

Our ultimate intention is to eventually settle permanently with our 2 children age 4 and 1, we thought as the girls are still very young they would adapt to the changes much easier than if we leave it a few more years.

Our main concern is finding employment, as we have a young family to support, so cannot afford to be out of work for too long.
I have worked in the travel industry for 13 years my husband is a Manager in the retail sector.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Mandy

[annecollings]

You will find a lot of other threads in this site re relocating to Cyprus, some probably worth looking at. Most people will probably tell you to rent first - I believe this is a must. Then get a feel for the place. Spend some time here, see if you can get jobs before making a permanent move. Good luck!

[monkeyp57]

Anne,
Thx for your reply, we really do intend renting initially, cos we have no idea of the area we would like to settle in permanently.
There is soooooo much to think about tho, finding it hard to switch off on a night at the moment.

When we come over next weekend for a week thought it would be wise to go into a few recruitment agencies with our cv's what do you think.
My husband and I really don't mind what we do in the way of work initially, so word of mouth might be a step in the right direction too.

We would like our 4yr old to go into the mainstream schooling system if we decide to stay, I think that bringing her up among other cypriot children would be of great benefit to her, and the state offers extra tuition which is real bonus.

Hope you dont think I'm being nosey, but where in Cyprus do you live and what do you do for a living.
Do you think with the right kind of attitude and a little luck and good fortune it is possible to make a life for yourself.

My husband and I just want to be able to have more of a life with the girls in a more relaxed less stressful environment.
And the cypriot people are definatley relaxed!!
Sorry for waffling
Monkey

[hincyprus]

Don't forget that when job searching you must put UK salaries out of your mind.....

They are very very much lower here.

With regard to education, be flexible. Even within the private sector values and quality vary greatly. Ask others which schools they use, state and private within the area you eventually wish to settle.

Also remember that state schools only teach in Greek.

When looking for rental it is wise to avoid the "tourist areas" with regard to cost. look or ask on the forums does anyone know places to rent....

There is also the UKCA who have clubs across the island who have info and a monthly magazine which may eventually help. (although they tend to err towards the fuddy duddies like me).

In Paphos there is an English magazine produced but I cannot remember its name. (may be Grapevine ????) Can others help with its name?

good luck with your search.....but take your time when buying and get a good lawyer (again ask)....Do not use the same lawyer as the builder....

h

[annecollings]

Sorry for not getting back sooner - been v.busy.

I'm not sure if you here already in Cyprus now, but if you are looking for job agencies, as far as I know there are not many (or any?). I see most jobs advertised in Cyprus Weekly and Cyprus Mail. It may be best to decide what type of job you are looking for a write/send CV to companies.

May be your children are young enough to pick up Greek? and go to greek school. Otherwise english school is expensive.

I live half way between Larnaka and Limassol and run my own business as a dog groomer. My partner is retired.

[cornishbabe]

Hi Anne (collings)

I was very interested in your post relating to your business in Cyprus.
We are visiting in November with a view to purchase and eventually relocating next year.
We will not be selling our house in England but will rent it out, so will definately both need work. I have over 20 years retail and sales experience, currently work as a travel agent, my partner also has extensive sales experience.

I am passionate about animals and wildlife and have been thinking on the lines on wether I could start up a business in this area (not sure what yet!!). If you don`t mind me asking is your dog grooming business, busy?
are your customers predominately british? and do you think there is scope for a pet related business?

I hope this post actually reaches the right person, I am fairly new to this so apologies if I get it wrong

Sue

[annecollings]

To: Cornishbabe

Yes there is scope for animal related businesses here but obviously not a dog grooming business in the same area as me!! (ha ha). I have been asked by many friends and customers if I know of a good dog trainer. Sometimes the most basic of training. Mind you sometimes I think it is the owner who needs training - people are too soft with their dogs (including me!)
Yes, I am busy, but only work part time. A lot of my customers are english, but I do have some very nice Cypriot customers who care for their animals.

Pafos seems to have sprung an over load of new English run "animal" businesses.

Be careful, if you are coming to Cyprus as an animal lover, you could be disappointed. It is not an easy place to live as an animal lover! That said, I know that it is not all roses in the UK, but you seem to see it more here - just be aware.

If you have worked in the travel industry you might be better off there. But working for someone else is usually not that profitable.

Any way, hope the above helps. Good Luck.

[Guernseygal]

Hi Mandy
Just wondering how your visit went and whether you've decided to move to Cyprus. My husband and I have a 3 year old daughter and are thinking of making the move too but are yet to do our first visit. I would be interested in chatting to you about this (or anyone else in a similar situation).
Best wishes
Loretta
[email protected]