Manners in Cyprus
Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country
Greetings
- Handshake
- Light kiss on the cheek (close acquaintances)
- Yassas/Yassou (Hello)
Etiquette
- When invited to a meal, it''s polite to wait until the host invites you to start eating
- Sharing olives and bread is considered a sign of friendship
- Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites
- Photography is prohibited at military camps and UN-controlled zones
- Treat street cats with respect as they are cherished by local communities
- Coffee cup reading is a popular conversation starter; accept if invited
- Being 15 minutes late is generally acceptable, but punctuality is expected in business
- Avoid loud voices in public places
- Fine wine or sweets are preferred as gifts
- Avoid political questions to soldiers or police on the island