One of the main reasons students choose to study abroad is the cultural aspect. After only a few hours in Cyprus, the culture change is vivid. Unlike the United States, Cyprus feels like a tighter community. The country is oftentimes unfairly deemed a “Greek Island”, even though it has its own story to write.

Before coming to Cyprus, I noted that I was interested in the potential difference between the Cyprian Greek language and traditional Greek language. After talking to Christine from the University of Nicosia, she thoroughly explained the lingual differences. First off, Cyprian Greek is more of a dialect, using different words and accents. However, Cyprian students also learn Modern Greek when growing up. They write essays and complete formal tasks in Modern Greek, but converse with one another in Cyprian Greek. I found this fascinating since I am used to hearing traditional Greek from my mother back home. Throughout the trip, I am eager to listen more intently when Cyprians speak Greek.

Besides the fascinating lingual differences, Cyprus has a urban lifestyle like nothing I have ever seen. Unlike cities in America, the “graffiti” in the city feels more like art than it does vandalism. The locals seem more content, and the nature feels more natural. We had an hour drive from Larnaca to Limassol, and I spent most of the time reading the pamphlet they gave us as well as looking out the window. The most interesting thing I remember from the pamphlet was the importance of cats throughout Cyprian history. It is told that cats were once bred to extinguish an overpopulation of snakes on the island. After the issue was resolved, the cats continued to breed and live in Cyprus.

Before arriving, I was told that cats simply wander around the cities. I assumed that maybe you would see one cat every hour or so, but during dinner, I saw a different cat every 15 minutes. These cats would walk right next to me, look up at me and simply mind their own business. I also observed that the locals are so used to the cats being there that they ignore them. Coming from America, where cats are known to be pets, I found it truly fascinating that in different parts of the world, they are an untamed species.

Overall, I learned much more about the culture of Cyprus than I could have ever imagined in only one afternoon and evening. If this is what I have learned in only a few hours, I cannot picture what is to come!