“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” – Chinese Proverb
A growing number of South African retirees are investigating offshore options for their retirement plans: not only as a personal lifestyle choice; but also to leave a legacy for their families. But the choice of where to retire to and to invest can be daunting.
Cyprus is an English-speaking country in The Med that is a very appealing destination as a serious contender in any retirement plan. Being an ex-British colony and full EU member means that Cyprus is a very popular European destination for retirees and investors. Cyprus been voted as offering THE BEST permanent residency programme in Europe and because of this, huge investment is pouring into the economy.
It’s easy to fall in love with Cyprus, especially with the 1st world lifestyle aspects. But it’s the excellent quality of life that is driving retirees in droves to look seriously at Cyprus as their new home.
The following 7 reasons have motivated their move:
- Free Health care: being a permanent resident means you are eligible to be part of Cyprus’ National Health programme GESY (a comprehensive healthcare system for all citizens and permanent residents). No more expensive medical aid premiums with any pre-existing condition being excluded. Because of the fantastic Mediterranean climate, arthritic, rheumatic and respiratory problems are eased and often cured. In Cyprus you can enjoy a world-class health system offering superior medical facilities & specialists.
- No inheritance tax: On your death, you can pass on your property to your children and/or grandchildren without having to pay the Cypriot government any inheritance tax. This is very advantageous for wealth and legacy planning.
- Very friendly people: the Cypriots are warm, friendly and community-orientated. Having an English-speaking culture (Cyprus is an ex-British colony) makes the integration far easier than many other European countries where there is often not only a language barrier, but a cultural one too.
- It’s a very, very safe county to live in: Cyprus boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the world and one of the safest countries. Living where you can enjoy living with no alarms, security gates or electric fences. There is absolutely no fear for your personal or material safety in Cyprus.
- Low cost of living: it is a lot cheaper to live in Cyprus than in South Africa even with a volatile exchange rate. Monthly living costs are a fraction of those in South Africa and there is a lot more pension left at the end of your month!
- Weather and food – the best in The Med! the weather is glorious: 320 days of sunshine a year and a short, mild winter! Fresh produce grown in Cyprus is delicious, inexpensive and in abundant supply at all the local supermarkets. It is seldom pre-packed, so you get to choose exactly what you want. Food tastes different in Cyprus because of the way it’s cultivated and prepared: in the traditional way!
- Living your life to the fullest! You’ll be spending more time outdoors in Cyprus because of the glorious weather, the plethora of activities available (bowls, tennis, golf, photography classes, cruises on The Med etc.) and the sense of freedom because of no crime. And with Europe on your doorstep you’ll be spoilt for choice on which city to visit next!
Cyprus has 2 International Airports and several marinas, which means getting across to Europe is easy and inexpensive.
Another aspect that makes Cyprus the perfect place is that you drive on the correct side of the road – the left! This is another advantage of being an ex-British colony; and makes moving Cyprus a very easy integration.
Making the move across to Cyprus is simpler than you think; and the generous exemption of import duties, excise duties and VAT to bring your personal effects to Cyprus for your relocation makes it easy on the wallet too. Cypriot Realty, an international marketing company, has an impressive 16-year track record of assisting many retirees explore what Cyprus has to offer.
A new home in a new country is the achievement of a lifetime and an investment in the future for the next generation. In Cyprus the retirement options really are the best. Living is laid back – you set your own pace.
And what better place to do this than where the blue skies meet the Mediterranean Sea: on the beautiful island of Cyprus.
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Contact Jenny Ellinas, Founder & CEO
- Tel : +27 83 448 8734
- Email: jenny@cypriotrealty.com
- Visit: cypriotrealty.com
