Veedushi Bissessur

When settling down in Rome or any other city in the world, finding out about the local culture and norms can be great of help in your adaptation process. Like in other Italian cities, the Roman culture is very similar to different Western cultures.

Settling down in Rome can turn out to be an incredible human experience once you start developing your social network. Luckily, Italians tend to be very approachable and expatriates very open about meeting people who, like them, are far away from their native country.

Across the city of Rome and by extension, the whole of Italy, one of the best ways to know about professional opportunities or to find a job is to build and grow your professional network.

When in Rome, you will soon notice that it is easy to socialise with Italians and expatriates. But are you aware of the social etiquette that can help you better immerse in the Roman culture?

Londoners are very time conscious, and they appreciate punctuality, which may explain why they are always in a rush. It is a good practice to arrive about ten minutes earlier to the interview location so that you have enough time to present yourself to the front desk and be guided to the relevant department.

With a population of 1.19 million, Cyprus is the third most densely populated island in the Mediterranean. Particularly in the country's largest cities, such as Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos, there is an over-demand of accommodation due to the influx of expats and international students. As a result, rent prices have recently gone up. However, it is still possible to find reasonably priced accommodation outside the main cities, if you know where to look.

With a population of 200,452 people, the capital city of Nicosia is the most densely populated in Cyprus. Dubbed the worlds last divided capital, Nicosia is indeed split in two at the Green Line, with the Turkish-occupied area at the other side. Despite that or perhaps because of it, Nicosia is a cultural melting pot attracting visitors and expats from every corner of the world. Choosing to stay in Nicosia means you can enjoy archaeological sites and rich history while being part of vibrant everyday life at the city's many cafes, bars and restaurants. Finding accommodation, however, might be a bit challenging.

Are you thinking of investing in property in Cyprus? You are definitely not alone. The interest for real estate in Cyprus is very strong, particularly from expats. There are many reasons for that, namely the low cost of living combined with a high-quality lifestyle, the climate, the still competitive real estate prices as well as the majestic views to the islands beautiful nature. For expats thinking of buying property in Cyprus there is a further advantage, as acquiring real estate in Cypriot ground makes it infinitely easier to get a permanent residence. Before you invest though, you should also be aware of the potential pitfalls.

Dubbed the last divided capital city of Europe, Nicosia has a long and rich history as well as a vibrant present. Cyprus capital city is a melting pot of different cultures and architectural influences, where expats are as likely (if not more) to find work as are Cypriot citizens. In fact, Nicosia has seen the highest decrease in unemployment in recent years so choosing it as your base is probably the smartest thing to do.

Every year, Cyprus attracts many expats looking to start their venture. The reasons for that are many: from the fact that the process of establishing a company is relatively simple, to the fact that corporate tax in Cyprus is one of the lowest in all of EU, Cyprus has a pro-business approach that benefits new business owners. If you are one of them, however, you should be aware that the process of starting your own business on the island may take more or less time, based on whether or not you are an EU/EFTA/UK national.

The complexity of staying long-term in Cyprus (for more than 90 days) varies greatly depending on your nationality. As the Republic of Cyprus is a full EU country, it's quite easy for EU/EFTA nationals and UK citizen to migrate in Cyprus as long as they can prove they have a job or sufficient income/funds to study or retire. Third-country nationals, however, have to first apply for a long-stay visa and then for a long-term residency, which is granted after five years. Please note that the documentation needed in that case will be excessive, so it will have to be submitted well in advance.

One of the reasons an increasing amount of expats chooses Cyprus for their new home is the relaxed pace of living compared to other EU countries. A good work-life balance is essential, and leisure time is considered very important. Add that to the fact that the climate in Cyprus makes it possible to bask in the sun and swim at sea for most of the year, and you can rest assured that your leisure time will be well spent.

Nicosia has a distinct, dual character. On the one hand, the new city with its modern buildings, coffee shops and boutiques; on the other, the picturesque old town with the narrow, paved streets and the traditional markets. The capital city of Cyprus is also the only remaining divided capital in the world, which gives Nicosia a unique character. In Nicosia, rich cultural heritage comes together with vibrant, contemporary life, making the city a very attractive destination for expats.

Cypriot culture is very closely intertwined with Cypriot gastronomy. The Mediterranean view of food as an essential social ritual is very prominent in Cyprus: slow eating, from small, shared plates called mezze is the norm. Whether we're talking about your morning brew or a multi-course dinner, Cypriots would like to remind you to take it slow and enjoy every flavour.

If you consider the fact that the island has been inhabited since the Neolithic era, you understand that Cypriot culture cannot easily be defined in one article. Cyprus is a cornucopia of archaeological sites, and the different civilisations that have passed through the island all left their mark. However, the majority of customs and traditions come from Greece but with a Cypriot spin. Many of the local traditions are centred around food, drinks and religious practices.

Cyprus has been through a lot as a nation. Throughout the adversities, its people have developed bravery and stubbornness, a willingness to celebrate every day and make the most out of non-ideal situations. Being surrounded by many different civilisations due to their geolocation, Cypriots know how to borrow the best aspects of each culture and combine them with their own. Although your everyday life on the island will vary significantly depending on whether you live in a city, a rural area or a more touristy spot, these values of Cypriot lifestyle will still permeate.

As Cyprus is one of the safest countries in the world, you shouldn't have any worries about raising your kids here. Cypriots are very friendly in general, particularly towards children you won't find many restaurants that won't go out of their way to make your kid feel welcome. Throughout the island, there are many kindergartens, both public and private for your consideration, many of which English or Russian speaking. You can also opt for a nanny or a childminder.

Cyprus is a small island, so distances between places are easily manageable. The best way for you to get around is by car, a rental car or bus. There is a good network of buses connecting even the more remote areas, although the service is not always frequent. Other transport options include taxis, travel taxis (bigger vehicles that can accommodate 4-7 people), and airport buses. Since the climate is usually warm, you can also rent a bicycle or a motorcycle to move around and explore.

Although internet speeds are not yet as fast as in other EU countries, in the last few years the internet infrastructure in Cyprus has improved drastically. More internet and telecom providers have entered the market, which means you now have more options whether you need wireless internet or a high-speed fibre connection. However, mobile internet connections can be a bit unreliable in rural areas.

Cyprus has a reputation for being a tax haven. And rightly so, as the country offers one of the most attractive tax regimes in all of EU. Cyprus has very low corporate taxes, high-income tax threshold, no capital gains tax on shares, tax-free interest for up to 17 years and a vast network of double taxation treaties. As a result, apart from the many expats who chose Cyprus as their new home, there are also many holding companies opting to set up their international base in the country.

As Cyprus is a small island, the best way to get around is by car. But is your drivers license valid in the country, or would you need to sit through the test once again? The answer depends on your nationality. Cyprus being part of the EU, EU drivers licenses are valid but the country has reciprocal exchange agreements with many countries, so in most cases, you probably won't have to sit through the test. Read below to learn more about how to drive in Cyprus.

Cyprus is home to world-class universities and university colleges twelve of which offer programmes and courses taught in English. Combine that with the affordable tuition fees and the pleasant climate, and you can understand why students flock from 131 different countries to study (and have fun during their downtime) in Cyprus. Heres what you need to know if you're considering studying in the country.

If its time for your big move to Cyprus, you will most likely need help from the experts. Choosing the right company to help you pack your precious belongings and start a new life is a big step, and you should take enough time to assess your needs. Decide whether you need removal services (i.e. to move your things to your new home) or a relocation service which offers a more holistic approach. Then you should make a detailed list of your belongings, and get quotes from several companies before making your decision.

Expats who have pets know that figuring out the logistics of how to bring their beloved animals to their new country can be overwhelming. Thankfully, as Cyprus is part of the EU, bringing your pet from an EU country will be a straightforward process. In any case, as long as your pets are up to date with vaccination and are microchipped, you should have no real problems bringing them to Cyprus.

If you are planning on a short-term stay in Cyprus, you should know beforehand whether or not you will need a visa. EU/EFTA nationals are exempt from visa requirements and temporary residence permits, while other nationalities will require a visa to enter Cyprus and stay for more than 90 days. For now, the requirements for UK nationals will remain the same as those for EU/EFTA nationals.

Despite being a small (and partly occupied) country, travelling to the island of Cyprus is quite straightforward. Located at the southwest corner of Europe, the Republic of Cyprus is a member of the EU and the Eurozone, making it extremely easy for EU/EFTA citizens to visit. If you are a third-country national though you may require a travel visa, so read on to ascertain what applies to your particular case.

How to traveller is about the life of David, an Irish expat blogger who moved to Spain looking for new pastures. A job opportunity drove him from Malta to Costa del Sol after spending some time in Czechia and Malaysia. To those who are looking to travel or move to Spain, he speaks about his experiences and gives out some tips.

From breathtaking firework shows and lively street parties to live music and parades, New Year's Eve across the globe is about finishing off the year in high spirits. Here, we have put together a list of the best destinations in the world to start the new year countdown. As clocks will be striking midnight, we would like to take this opportunity to wish you the best of success with your 2019 expatriation projects!

December is all about excitement, anticipation, and high levels of energy, which are required to get us through all the shopping and cooking frenzy of the festive season. Then, Christmas Day comes and along with it the pick of our happiness. Wherever we are, and whoever is surrounding us, we are doing our best to make our Christmas special. But the day is over, and on the 26th we wake up underwhelmed. If we have spent the holidays in our host country, far away from family and close friends, this is usually a day of nostalgia and heavy symptoms of homesickness. Don't shut your emotions down, but do small things instead to boost your spirits again. After all, you have the New Year to get you going.

You have so many options for your Christmas shopping — from bursting department stores and cosmopolitan shopping streets with spectacular festive window displays, to local boutiques and the internet, of course. However, for fairy-tale-like Christmas shopping experiences, we encourage you to head to the closest Christmas market, where you will find anything from handcrafted toys and ornaments, to fashion items and food (so much food!). Let the sounds of Christmas carols and the aromas of warm mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts guide you to one of our favourite European Christmas markets, and indulge into the holiday spirit!

Once you have decided to move to the Maldives, you will need an efficient way to get your belongings there. This means sending your possessions by post, hiring a reliable removal company and making sure your move is easy and stress-free. Find out tips about how to organise your move to the islands in this article.

Known for its high-end resorts and stunning beaches, the Maldives is a prime holiday destination for travellers from across the globe. But what if you want to settle here? Learn about accommodation options on the islands, rent prices, and more.

Male is the capital city of the Maldives, the countrys busiest and most populated city. Living here will give you an insight into the lives of Maldivians as well as let you enjoy all the amenities of city life. However, looking for accommodation in the city is quite tricky. Find out what it entails in this article.

The smallest country in Asia and one of the worlds most famous vacation destinations, the Maldives offer the perfect holiday setting. But there is more to the islands than just snorkeling and tanning. With the strongly developed tourism and services sector, the Maldives may just be the perfect destination to further your studies in hospitality and other related fields. Interested in doing an internship in the Maldives? Find out about the related procedures in this article.

So, youve landed in the Maldives and are eager to explore the country. But how do you get around? Learn about transportation in the Maldives in this article and find out the best ways to get to your destination.

Eager to explore the busy Maldives capital and beyond? Hop into a seaplane, take a speedboat, or walk around for a more detailed look. Find out how to get around Male in this article.

One of the worlds most popular vacation destinations, the Maldives offer plenty to do and see. Famous for their white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise water, beautiful lagoons, and picturesque small islands, the country is, first of all, a great destination for nature lovers. However, this does not mean that you will have to spend all your free time lying on the beach. The bustling capital of Male, for one, offers a fast-paced urban alternative to the overall calm setting of the islands. Learn more about what to do in the Maldives in this article.

The Maldives bustling capital of Male is the 5th most densely populated city in the world. Covering an area of just six square kilometres and having a population of over 150,000 people, the city has the highest concentration of buildings, people, and transportation in the Maldives. Offering a different type of setting compared to the idyllic islands scattered in the Indian Ocean, Male is the centre of Maldivian culture and business. Planning a move to Male? Find out how to occupy yourself in your free time in the city in this article.

A group of tiny islands scattered in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives may not seem like the bustling business environment for your business. However, with the large and constantly growing tourism sector, the country may be more of a business hub than one might think. So is it possible for an expat to start a business in the Maldives and what does it take to do so? Find out in this article.

No matter how short or long of a stay you are planning in the Maldives, you will want to stay connected throughout your trip: call friends and family, browse the web, stay in touch with your social media, and more. Despite its remote location and geographical specifics, you will be able to enjoy a stable coverage in most of the country, especially if you stay in the capital city or neighbouring areas. Even if you venture further away, most resorts and hotels even on remote island offer free WiFi plus, you can get a local SIM card for Internet on-the-go. Learn how to stay connected in the Maldives in this article.

Living, working or just vacationing in the Maldives can be an amazing experience. With stunning nature all around you, warm climate and a new culture to explore, a stay on the islands is both relaxing and enriching. However, if you are travelling with family and, especially, small children, it is best to do some research before your trip to make sure your potential destination has all the amenities for a safe and convenient stay with children. In this article, find out about child care in the Maldives.

When moving to any foreign country for a relatively long period of time, you will want to have an efficient way to get around. The Maldives, a group of small islands in the Indian Ocean, may not provide you with too many opportunities to drive. In fact, the city's capital of Male and the nearby island of Hulhule Island are some of the only places where you would have the infrastructure to get behind the wheel.

Scattered across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives are known as one of the most picturesque travel destinations in the world. White sandy beaches and clear blue waters create an idyllic atmosphere for getting away from it all but what are the Maldives really like underneath the gloss of luxury resorts and seafront villas? Learn about the country's culture, traditions, and local lifestyle in this article.

A new business opportunity is what made Adrian, a British expat, want to move to Bermuda. Passionate about travelling and sailing, he decided to take the leap of faith with his wife and kids. Bermudian Life is his blog where he talks about his everyday life as an expat and things to see and do in Bermuda.

So, you are considering working or opening a business in the Maldives. One of the questions on your mind will probably be taxation. Do you need to pay income tax when working in the Maldives? What about business tax? How much will you need to pay? Find answers to all these and other questions in this article.

The Maldives will probably not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about studying abroad. With its remote location and geographical specifics, this scattered group of islands has earned a reputation as one of the most picturesque vacation destinations, but is not exactly known for its universities and other educational establishments.

If you are travelling to the Maldives for the long term, you may be wondering if it would be possible to bring your pet with you. Find out the related procedures and regulations in this article.

Male is the capital of the Maldives, the countrys largest and most populous city. With that, its still quite small in area (about six square kilometres) and has the population of a bit over 150,000 people. Like in the rest of the country, work opportunities in Male mainly can be mainly found in the hospitality field.

The Maldives are one of the world's most idyllic travel destinations. Welcoming over 1.5mln visitors annually and with most of its economy relying on tourism, the country is very friendly to travellers and nationals of all countries can get a tourist visa directly on arrival in the Maldives. But what if you want to stay beyond the allowed 30 days? Learn about your options in this article.

If you are planning a trip to the Maldives, learning about the country's entry requirements as well as the regulations for short or long term stay would probably your main order of business. In this article, we take a quick look at what you will need to get your Maldives adventure started.