My EVS in Cyprus

I decided to take part of the EVS because I saw it as an opportunity to start a new life in a new unfamiliar atmosphere. This is new way to know yourself better, and also to improve my language skills, meet new people, explore new culture and also do something useful volunteering work so I came here with a lot of goals. Before coming Cyprus, of course, I had some concerns that maybe it wouldn’t be how I imagined. So, I am here since 1 month and for sure I can answer to myself that on all my thoughts I was right. And I am very glad that I did the right decision. Of course, to watch pictures or footages of Cyprus is not so effective as in real life. You need to feel the amazing nature and incredible landscapes, beaches of Cyprus, so you just have to visit and see it by your own eyes.

Cyprus is known as the ‘Jewel of the Mediterranean’ and legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, the ancient goddess of love and beauty. Tourists are drawn to Cyprus for its fascinating history and culture, its exquisite Mediterranean cuisine and its glorious mountains and verdant countryside that prove that Cyprus is much more than just a ‘sun and sea’ destination.

Nearly everyone in the country speaks English. Greek is the native language, and an increasing proportion of the population also speaks Russian. This makes the country a truly multi-language destination. That probably explains why there are multiple expat communities in Cyprus, including Armenians. As I come from Armenia, I am really happy and proud of the fact that Armenians who are living in Cyprus have earned confidence and respect by locals, and the proof of my words are conversations with locals about Armenians and churches and schools which we have here.

Once more advantage that Cyprus has is that it is considered the 5th safest country in the world by Value Penguin. Cyprus is an ideal place to live in many ways but also being such a safe environment for families to live and work in is an extra bonus, especially in today’s world of violence and crime. I can bring my personal example, a few days ago I was riding bicycle from the city center to our apartment and it was approximately 2:30  am, and I lost the way of my apartment, at the beginning I used that as  opportunity to ride around city and enjoy the night life of Nicosia, which was really very nice and interesting as I could find beautiful places which I have not seen before, I rode nearly 2 hours just for fun, but in fact I went really very far from the street of my apartment, after what I approached strangers who kindly showed me the way and finally  I got home. So, everyone might walk and ride bicycles at any time of day in Cyprus and feel safe.

My advice to other young people is definitely one, if you have opportunity to visit The Ripublic of  Cyprus and do your EVS, just don’t hesitate and use it, which will give you a lot with various experiences which you will need for your future.