Table of Contents
The Unwritten Rules
Head-nod up = "No" (not "Yes"!). Open palm gesture (Moutza) = worst insult. "Kopiaste" = genuine invitation. Knowing these: integrate faster, avoid embarrassment.
Communication and Gestures
Upward head jerk: means NO. Moutza (open hand facing someone): worst insult. "Kopiaste": genuine invitation to eat/coffee. Eye contact: important, maintain when toasting.
The section on "The Unwritten Rules" was the most valuable for us. We couldn't find this information anywhere else before our move. It saved us a lot of time and hassle.
– Culture lover from Hanover, in Limassol since 2022
Social Rules
Remove shoes entering homes. Never refuse food (at least taste). Punctuality: 15-30 min late to private invitations is perfect. Sundays: family day, don't disturb. Name days: more important than birthdays.
What NOT to Do
Say "Turkish coffee". Speak positively about "the North". Be noisy 2-4 PM (siesta). Mistreat animals. Enter churches disrespectfully. Show TRNC flag in the south.
Local Customs Expats Should Know
Topics: The Unwritten Rules, Communication and Gestures, Social Rules
CMC Practical Tip
Knowing these: integrate faster, avoid embarrassment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Open palm with spread fingers facing someone. Worst insult. Avoid: "stop" gesture, showing numbers with open hand.
Recommended for Cypriot neighbors and friends. "Chronia Polla!" Google "Greek name day calendar".
Private: 15-30 min late perfect. Business: 10-15 min tolerance. Doctor: on time.
No panic – Cypriots are forgiving toward foreigners. Smile, apologize, do better next time.
How CMC Supports You
At CMC Certus Management Consultants, we are here for you – not only for tax and legal questions, but also for all practical topics of everyday life in Cyprus. Our team in Larnaca and Pafos knows the local conditions first-hand.
As your local contact, we handle: company formation and management, tax advisory and Non-Dom applications, ongoing bookkeeping and tax returns, support with authorities, and referrals to estate agents, lawyers, doctors and tradespeople.