Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean. It receives over 300 sunny days per year, and as extremes in temperature are rare, and is ideal any time of the year. Cyprus is steeped in history of Greek mythology, you can find many ancient sites and treasures, in this birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty.

However, Cyprus is now a modern country, combining European culture with its rich past. On May 1st 2004 Cyprus became a member of the EU.

The island is blessed with vineyards, citrus and olive groves, and pine forested mountains.

More than 17% of Cyprus is classified as woodland.

Cyprus boasts some of Europe's most cleanest and beautiful beaches.

Cyprus has two mountain ranges, the pine clad Troodos range in the south west, and the stunning Pentadaktylos range in the north. In the Troodos, only about an hour away from the coast, it is possible to find yourself enshrouded in perfect, restorative silence.

The island offers sandy beaches and rugged coastlines, then rises up to the pine covered Troodos mountains where snowfall every year offers good skiing between December to March.

Two international airports, giving easy access to the UK in a matter of hours.

It has one of the lowest crime rates in the world.

The swimming season is from April through to November.

Travel almost anywhere inland and you will find ancient stone hilltop villages that have changed little over the centuries.

Cyprus boasts the highest production rate of grapes in the world in proportion to its size and population. Most vineyards are small and grow local varieties mostly for wine. Donkeys and oxen are still used to plough some of them.

For some moving to Cyprus is instant with no second thoughts, they fall in love with the island from day one, for others it takes months and for some maybe a little longer. But the conclusion is that the majority would not choose to return to the UK, because they have found their quality of life has much improved due to the idyllic climate, the relaxed slower pace of life, and the special warmth and hospitality of the Cypriot people and so much more.

For the majority there is 'no going back'.Cyprus is a charming island and an ideal place for retirement. The climate makes it one of the healthiest places in the world to live, along with the low cost of living, excellent medical facilities, golf courses, marinas and sports clubs. Modern legal, banking, accounting services are similar to UK. New motorways and good main roads connecting all towns, also driving on the left makes life a little easier when getting about.

Moving abroad is not something one takes likely, it is a big step and requires much thought and careful planning, after all, you are changing your way of life.

You need to live it to experience it.