Retire in Limassol, Cyprus

"Limassol is a popular destination for retirees due to its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and low cost of living. There is an active expat community in Limassol, with many retirees from the UK, Russia, and other countries. There are plenty of cultural attractions in the area, such as the Limassol Castle, the Limassol Archaeological Museum, and the Limassol Zoo. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as golf, tennis, sailing, and hiking. For those looking for nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Limassol is a great place for retirees to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of activities to keep them busy," said a retiree who moved to Limassol, Cyprus.

"When considering retiring abroad, be sure to research the cost of living in your chosen destination. Many countries offer lower costs than in the US, and it is important to know how far your retirement income will go in a new country. Additionally, consider what type of health care and social security arrangements are available in the country you plan to retire to. Research opportunities for activities and think about the type of lifestyle and climate that will suit you. Furthermore, determine if you're eligible for any residency and visa requirements. Lastly, look up information about repatriation, as it is important to know what it will cost and how long it will take to repatriate funds and items from your new home to your original country," remarked one retiree in Limassol.

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Limassol is the cost of living. Prices for goods and services are generally higher than in other parts of the world, and the cost of housing can be quite expensive. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Greek or Turkish, as these are the two main languages spoken in Limassol. Furthermore, the climate can be quite hot and humid during the summer months, which can be difficult for those who are not used to the heat. Finally, the healthcare system in Limassol is not as advanced as in other countries, so retirees may need to look into private health insurance to ensure they have access to quality medical care," remarked one retiree in Limassol.

"Retiring in Limassol offers a number of rewarding aspects. The city is known for its beautiful Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The city also offers a wide variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and archaeological sites. Additionally, Limassol is home to a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs to explore. The city also boasts a number of beaches, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the sunshine. Finally, Limassol is a great place to retire due to its low cost of living and its proximity to other European countries," remarked one retiree in Limassol.

"Limassol offers a wide range of healthcare services. The city has several public and private hospitals, as well as a number of specialized clinics and medical centers. The public hospitals provide general medical care, while the private hospitals offer more specialized services. Limassol also has a number of pharmacies, providing both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Additionally, the city has a number of medical centers offering a variety of services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Limassol also has a number of dentists and optometrists, providing a range of dental and eye care services," commented one retiree living in Limassol, Cyprus.

"Expats in Limassol can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, book clubs, language clubs, and more. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as well as attending meetups and networking events. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and getting to know their neighbors," explained one retiree living in Limassol.

"Join online forums such as BFC Trading Post Cyprus Limassol Living and also Cyprus-AngloInfo as they are full of information - before you move to Cyprus. We also have the UKCA club in the town which is frequented by UK ex-pats. If you are an animal lover, there are loads of sanctuaries that are seeking voluntary help and we also have the Samaritans who regularly need assistance," said one retiree in living in Limassol, Cyprus.

"Limassol is in the centre of the island, so is ideal for access from both airports and makes it an easy place for visiting the East & West coasts within a 2 hour drive to visit Ayia Napa (if that's your cup of tea). Limassol is probably the most cosmopolitan city in Cyprus and there are many nationalities living & working here. It's the hub of numerous off-shore companies and also the main container shipping port. Cruise ships come into Cyprus via Limassol new port. It's a city that covers a multitude of things so yes, it's a living & breathing city for work or play. With a long tourist sea front covering almost 12km nobody can complain they are short of things to do," said one retiree in Limassol.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Limassol is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers, making it an ideal place to live and work. The cost of living is relatively low, and the city is home to a vibrant expat community, with plenty of opportunities to socialize and network. The city also offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from its beautiful beaches to its historical sites and cultural attractions. Additionally, the city is well-connected to the rest of the world, with an international airport and excellent public transportation. All in all, Limassol is an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a comfortable and affordable place to live and work," commented one retiree living in Limassol, Cyprus.

"Before retiring in Limassol, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs. It is also important to research the cost of living in Limassol, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Additionally, expats should consider the climate in Limassol, as well as the language spoken in the area. Finally, expats should research the local laws and regulations to ensure they are compliant with the local government," said a retiree who moved to Limassol, Cyprus.

"Be prepared to have sufficient funds to last for up to 2yrs without an income. The initial setting up costs can be quite expensive as white goods are not cheap because everything has to be imported. Rent a property first to find the right location in line with work. A lot of offices or shops work "split shifts" so you are expected to go home for a couple of hours at lunchtime then go back and work till possibly 8pm during Summer hours. Salries cannot be compared to UK at all and a good salary of CYP 600 or 1025pm is not so easy to come by. You may be expected to work 40hrs a week and for that on split shifts, sometimes working at weekends with a half day off mid week. Second hand cars hold their value really well in Cyprus so are not cheap to purchase and there is a lack of public transport - except along the main tourist road. A car is a necessity and Cyprus is not the place to come if you do not or are not willing to drive. Traffic can be horrendous during the weekly rush hour and we have at least 3 rush hours per day. Be prepared to sit in your car over lunchtime rush hour in temperatures of above 40 degrees! Winters are fairly short, starting in January till March but lack of insulation in the properties here mean you freeze in winter and boil in summer. Also, the humidity in July & August is VERY sweaty! Government office usually close for 2 weeks in August due to the heat when most workers escape to the mountains to cool off. Electricity costs are comparable to those in UK, but we get free hot water for about 9 months of the year from the solar systems. Telephone calls are extremely cheap, although internet or broadband service is more expensive than UK and many other European countries. Currently there is a real monopoly on the telephone service provider but slowly, things are changing and more competitors are coming in. Don't expect everything to happen overnight because it won't. There is a saying in Cyprus "siga, siga", which means "slowly, slowly" - believe me, it is very true! But that is why we chose to come to live here in the first place. We have a much more relaxed lifestyle and less worry, financially or otherwise than we ever had in UK. It isn't a place to come to if you have a get rich quick attitude. But, if you are comfortably off with some funds behind you and are prepared to work or change your worklife balance, leading a simpler lifestyle - then this is definitely the place," said one retiree in Limassol.

"1. Fasouri Watermania Waterpark: This is a popular water park in Limassol, featuring a variety of water slides, pools, and attractions for all ages, including a wave pool, lazy river, and a children's area. 2. Limassol Marina: The marina is a modern waterfront development that offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, yachting, dining, shopping, and leisure facilities. 3. Limassol Zoo: This small but well-maintained zoo is home to a variety of animals, including birds, reptiles, and mammals. It also features a playground and picnic area for families to enjoy. 4. MyMall Limassol: This large shopping mall offers a variety of recreational activities, including an ice-skating rink, a bowling alley, a cinema, and a children's play area. 5. Limassol Municipal Gardens: These beautiful gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy nature, with walking paths, playgrounds, and a small amphitheater for events and performances. 6. Kourion Archaeological Site: This ancient site features well-preserved ruins, including a Greco-Roman theater, a basilica, and mosaic floors. It is a great place for history enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area. 7. Dasoudi Beach: This popular beach offers a range of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It also features a beachfront promenade with cafes, restaurants, and playgrounds. 8. Limassol Old Town: The historic center of Limassol is a great place to explore on foot, with narrow streets, traditional architecture, and a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. 9. Limassol Castle: This medieval castle is located in the heart of the old town and houses the Cyprus Medieval Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits from the island's history. 10. Molos Promenade: This seaside promenade is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and cycling, with beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city's skyline. It also features playgrounds, cafes, and restaurants along the way," remarked one retiree in Limassol.

"Expats in Limassol, have several options for grocery shopping and other purchases. One popular supermarket is AlphaMega (https://www.alphamega.com.cy/), which offers a wide range of local and international products, including fresh produce, meats, and household items. Another option is Papantoniou Supermarket (https://www.papantoniou.com.cy/), a local chain that provides a variety of groceries, fresh foods, and household essentials. For those looking for organic and health food options, BioMarket (https://www.biomarket.com.cy/) is a great choice, offering a range of organic, gluten-free, and vegan products. Additionally, Green Foods (https://www.greenfoodscy.com/) is a health food store that specializes in organic and natural products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy, and bakery items. For shopping beyond groceries, MyMall (https://www.mymall.com.cy/) is the largest shopping mall in Limassol, featuring a variety of international and local brands, as well as dining and entertainment options. Anexartisias Street is another popular shopping destination, with a mix of high-street fashion brands, local boutiques, and souvenir shops. For fresh produce and local products, the Limassol Municipal Market (https://www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy/en/municipal-market) is a must-visit. This traditional market offers a variety of fruits, vegetables, meats, and other local delicacies, providing a unique shopping experience for expats," said one member in Limassol.