80º weather. Mostly sunny skies. The first day was pretty much perfect for getting to know the Cypriot capital. We did a walking tour of the modern city, lined with high rises and shops, and grabbed lunch at a local restaurant called Evroulla. After a great lunch we headed to the University of Nicosia, toured the campus, and got a Covid rapid test for the next day’s company visit. This was nerve-racking because one positive test, even a false one, could throw off the entire trip. Luckily, everyone was negative! In the evening, we walked around the old city, wrapped by Venetian Walls, with our lovely tour guide. To finish off our night, the group ate at MEZE Taverna, enjoying a high quality family style dinner. It was certainly a day full of experience.

Some reflections and learning moments:

1. While the weather is quite comfortable, it is easy to forget that the sun is intense and can drain you. I have to make sure I get good rest and hydrate well in order to keep pace throughout the trip.
2. I’m an avid water drinker and on hot summer days in Florida (my home state), constant hydration is the only thing that can keep you going. That is why it’s always surprising to remember that Europeans mostly do not share my same water affinity. The amount of liquid served at meals is much less than in America. While I don’t want to look like a tourist, consuming multiple bottles of water a day is a necessary sacrifice for me.
3. I tried to get my Verizon Travel Pass data working to make things more convenient, but I had no luck. It’s not the biggest problem but it just goes to show that not all things will go to plan and you have to be ready to adjust.
4. Food is cheap! Awesome! I got a meal that would probably be worth $15 in the states for 7 euros here. As a frugal spender this means a lot to me.
5. Food is good! Awesome! I wouldn’t consider myself a picky eater but I was still a little worried about whether I would like the food in Cyprus. I’ve had three meals so far and all of them have been great so that worry has been quelled.
6. Cyprus! Awesome!

For the first day, I’m simply confirming that Cyprus is going to be an awesome place to be in. There is so much to see/do/learn here, plus I already feel like I’m getting closer with the group. I can’t wait to see what this trip holds in store, and I’m excited for the company visit with Medochemie tomorrow!