A reply to all the people

Hi there people. I am Cypriot, studied in Canada and Cyprus and now back and working. I will try to comment as simply as I can on Cyprus, its people and cultures

Cyprus hate foreigners: Cypriots do NOT hate foreigners but they are very cautious with them. Historically, everyone who could built a boat that would last for one hour in the sea would come and take over the island. Then came the waves if immigrants from former Soviet Union countries which took the jobs Cypriot's wouldn't do and the media exaggerated the issue out of proportions.

Are there differences between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots?
Very few cultural differences. Both Greek and Turkish Cypriots (and by Turkish Cypriots I mean people born and raised in Cyprus by Cypriot parents) are in their majority kind and hospitable. I had a hard time telling apart Greek from Turkish Cypriots while I studied abroad. With the exception of language, religion (which never was an issue) and politics, Greek and Turkish Cypriots are birds of the same feather.

Can I make friends with Cypriots?
Yes you can. Apparently a number of interracial couples seem to show that is possible. The key is to become part of the "circle". Once you are in the Cypriot's social circle, once you are accepted as one of their own then they will open up their arms and hearts for you. We tend to make closer friends with people with similar social and cultural backgrounds like Latinos and middle Eastern people.

I am being friendly but still I can't blend in. Why?

Cypriots have only relatively recently begun opening up as a society, travel and be educated abroad. Things ARE changing. A great place to meet open minded Cypriots willing to open up to you are through various clubs and single issue organisations.
i.e.
-Cultural Clubs (French-Cypriot societies etc)
- Kennel Clubs. If you love dogs you also love people who love dogs.
-Activism. Sign up to an NGO, environmental, social, interracial. There is also the Immigrant Support Centre. Lots of people liking foreigners and willing to do their best to help them integrate.

This are just some hints people. We are difficult people us Cypriots, Greeks and Turks alike, but we are good people. Make the effort and good things will happen.

Theodoros 19 May 2009, 01:51 - Report