Our first day in Nicosia was a busy one, mostly spent on walking tours learning more about the city that is our home for the next two weeks. We started with a tour of the part of Nicosia known as the “New City.” Here we found all of the high-rise apartment or office buildings with more modern architecture. We learned that the space below the bridges connecting the Old City and the New City was intended as a moat when the Venetians occupied Cyprus in the 16th century. After a small lunch break, we also visited the University of Nicosia where we attended an orientation and took a tour of their campus.

We spent the evening touring the Old City, my favorite part of Cyprus so far. We learned about the Ottoman and British occupancies of the island and how to spot traits from each time period in the blended styles of architecture throughout the Old City. We ended the evening with a group dinner, called a meze, where upwards of 8 courses of hors d’oeuvre-sized servings were served for everyone at the table to share.

Where I noticed the most cultural differences between the United States and Cyprus were the meals. While the large amount of food served certainly rivals the portions of the United States, the culture surrounding the meal is different. Small details such as the wait staff waiting until you wave them down to visit your table, as well as leaving a tip not being expected but greatly appreciated are useful differences to note. Cypriots also tend to make eating an experience, especially at the meze, where the meal is enjoyed by the whole group and you get a bit of everything. I am definitely looking forward to more great Cypriot food and experiences tomorrow!