Current Time in Nicosia
Cyprus culture regarding time
Cyprus culture regarding time
A relaxed sense of time is rooted in everyday life
Cyprus tends to be tolerant of time, especially in informal situations, and it is common for people to be late for meetings. The "slow flow of time" that is unique to the Mediterranean region naturally exists in daily life.
Plenty of time for meals and conversation
Lunch and dinner are valued as "time to interact with people" rather than just meals, and can last several hours. Time with family and friends in particular tends to be prioritized.
Afternoon break culture (siesta)
There is a custom of taking a long break (siesta) from noon to early afternoon, mainly in the summer, and shops and other businesses may close for a while.
Cyprus's values regarding time
Relationships take priority over time
Because interpersonal relationships and emotional connections are important, people tend to place more importance on "relationships here and now" than on time. Consideration for the other person and the flow of conversation are often prioritized over the time of an appointment.
It is considered a virtue to not rush
Rushing is not preferred, and a relaxed rhythm of life is thought to lead to "richness" and "happiness." This is also related to Cyprus's warm climate and natural environment.
There is a difference in the sense of time between urban and rural areas
In cities such as Nicosia, people tend to be strict about time in business situations, but in rural areas, people tend to be more flexible and the start time of visits and meetings tends to be vague.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to Cyprus
Be a little slack for appointments
In everyday life and casual appointments, it is common for the other party to be 10 to 15 minutes late. Locals prefer to be slack rather than strictly on time.
Tendency to be punctual in business situations
In formal meetings and business negotiations at foreign companies and government agencies, punctuality is often required, and being late can be considered rude. It is important to be flexible and change your response depending on the purpose.
Store opening hours can be vague
Especially in tourist areas and privately owned shops, opening and closing hours may be "guidelines", so be careful as they may not open or close as indicated.
Interesting trivia about time in Cyprus
"I'm coming now" does not necessarily mean right away
In Cyprus, the expression "I'm coming now" can actually take more than 30 minutes, and there is a gap between words and actions.
Sunday is a day to take it easy
In Cyprus, it is a strong tradition to spend Sundays with family, and after church in the morning and lunch, most shops are closed. This can be seen as a symbol of "using time leisurely."
Station departure times are not very strict
Even if there are public transportation timetables, they often operate based on a guideline of "roughly around this time," and it is a culture in which operation with the flow takes priority over accuracy.