I Have Residency in 30+ Countries – Here’s My Top Choice To Eat, Pray, Love

I Have Residency in 30+ Countries – Here’s My Top Choice, Why, and a Stunning Property If You Want to Join Me

My Condolences, Prayers, and Open Offer to Help

Tragically, midway through writing this week’s newsletter, devastating wildfires broke out in Cyprus. I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the families affected, wish eternal peace to the lives lost, and hope for a swift recovery for our beautiful nature. Our hearts ache for the communities, businesses, and ecosystems impacted. If you or someone you know has been affected, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at cyprus@mediterranean.condos. We will do everything we can to offer support.

This Week’s Edition Covers:

My personal journey across the globe and where I chose to settle—and why
How Americans can obtain residency here
A beautiful real estate opportunity for anyone interested in joining this Mediterranean lifestyle

Heatwave and the First Week Post-Holiday

Greetings from a very warm Cyprus. We’re in the middle of a heatwave, and part of me wishes I had extended the holiday I just returned from with my girlfriends last Sunday. We were only a two-hour drive away from my home, but it felt like an entirely different world.

As always, I can’t say enough about the incredible women in my life—being around them is always enriching. At this point in life, I only keep company that brings joy, love, and inspiration. I’m deeply grateful we got to share this time together again.

Longtime readers may remember a newsletter from two years ago where I shared a weekend trip to Karpasia, Cyprus—that’s where we were this time, too. It was a refreshing and reflective retreat. Karpasia, with its silent nights under starry skies and peaceful, secluded beaches, always helps me reconnect with myself. I like to pair it with a little jazz and lots of solitary reflection. I’ve included some photos and videos below to share a bit of the magic with you.

My Journey Around the Globe – and Why I Chose to Settle in Cyprus

It’s no secret: I found my dream life in Cyprus and made the permanent move in 2019. As a European Union passport holder, I have the right to residency in over 30 countries—including France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Spain.

I also had the right to reside in the UK and still have strong ties there, with a reputable British diploma that could easily open doors should I choose to return. My connections in the U.S. were also significant. I was involved in the U.S. Department of State’s Fulbright Program, participated in diplomatic initiatives with the U.S. Embassy in Cyprus, and even received a special invitation from the U.S. government for my visa.

Yet, despite these vast opportunities, I chose Cyprus. Why? Because it offered the highest quality of life I could find—for me. It was always right under my nose, just 40 minutes from my hometown. But it took over a decade and a journey around the world to realize that.

Many Worlds on One Tiny Island

For Americans, Cyprus might seem like a tiny island, but within it lies a tapestry of diverse lifestyles. For instance, Kyrenia—where I live—is a lively coastal city where business and entertainment thrive. In contrast, Karpasia -where I spent my weekend getaway– is a remote, protected national park with untouched beaches and a slower pace of life. And then there’s Nicosia, the capital—my hometown—home to government, commerce, and diplomacy.

Looking back, it’s almost funny that I spent my childhood unaware of these contrasting realities within my own country. I was a studious child, and our family holidays often took us abroad. My parents, both busy professionals, needed a break from their demanding schedules and public lives—my father’s political involvement meant we often escaped for privacy. But that also meant I grew up disconnected from the full beauty and diversity of my own homeland.

As I got older, I drifted even further—from summer schools across Europe to academic programs in the U.S. and university studies in the UK. It wasn’t until I returned for a brief stay that I finally took the time to rediscover Cyprus. I traveled solo, read deeply, met locals, and slowly fell in love with the land I once overlooked. That love led me to give up my life abroad and return for good.

Ironically, it was a painful return—a loved one was in hospice. But from that goodbye came a new beginning. Today, I live a life filled with meaning, contentment, and gratitude. I had to travel the world to appreciate what was always here.

Solo Discovery of Cyprus

In a way, I’m grateful that I got to rediscover Cyprus through the fresh lens of someone who had lived abroad for years. That outsider’s perspective gave me a deeper appreciation for things many fellow Cypriots overlook. Sadly, I was once just as unaware. My only experience of life in Cyprus had been in Nicosia—my hometown—and, honestly, that version of Cyprus ranked dead last on my personal list of places to live.

I disliked the traffic, the concrete cityscape, and most of all, being so far from the sea—which I love deeply. Nicosia doesn’t even have a proper lake. The only part of the city I still cherish is the old town, rich with monuments and historic charm. The cosmopolitan entertainment scene it’s developed in recent years is impressive, but to me, it still pales in comparison to the richness and serenity offered by the other towns and coastal cities of Cyprus.

Having Choices Is a Privilege

Let’s be honest: I come from a place of privilege. It’s only fair to acknowledge that upfront. I hold multiple international degrees, dual citizenship—one being from the EU, which grants me free access to live, work, and do business in 27 European countries including Spain, France, Portugal, and Italy. I’m financially stable, have had a successful career (with appearances on multiple Forbes lists), I’m bilingual, relatively young, and well-connected. These are significant advantages and I don’t take them for granted.

It’s also worth noting that you can no longer buy your way into EU citizenship, no matter how deep your pockets are. The last true citizenship-by-investment program—Malta’s—was officially abolished this year. Even while it existed, it came with a price tag in the millions. Today, your path to European citizenship must go through residency and naturalization, which takes time, commitment, and patience.

As a former Fulbright scholar, I had access to opportunities many dream of. I even received my first U.S. visa through a formal invitation from the American White House. So yes, I recognize my privileges and the doors they’ve opened. It would be dishonest to pretend otherwise. Still, what I’ve come to learn—and what I want to share with you—is that you don’t need those privileges to build an extraordinary life here.

Because here’s the catch: none of that is required to start a new life in Cyprus.

If you’re an English speaker with minimal savings and an American passport, you already qualify for a second residency here. Through geoarbitrage, you can significantly elevate your lifestyle just by relocating—especially if you’re coming from high-cost countries like the U.S., Canada, or the UK.

Let me walk you through the thought process and personal journey that led me to choose Cyprus, and how it remains one of the most accessible, affordable, and fulfilling destinations for people seeking a second home or a fresh start—regardless of background.

Life in Cyprus Wasn’t in the Cards – Until Everything Changed

Here’s a bit more background on me and the life I sampled before settling down. Aside from my childhood in Nicosia, I left Cyprus at 17 and never really looked back—for a long time. Life in Nicosia had been all work and no play, and it left me with a limited, one-dimensional view of what living in Cyprus meant. I had no idea just how wrong I was.

My memories of “fun” growing up were all tied to my time in Europe. That’s where I spent most of my downtime—during school breaks and summer programs. After leaving Nicosia, my first major step abroad was at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.—with training at the White House, where I even had the chance to meet Dr. Jill Biden. Those were eye-opening years filled with incredible experiences in diplomacy and public service.

That said, I also found D.C. to be surprisingly dull in terms of lifestyle. Aside from the occasional trip to Ben’s Chili Bowl, I felt uninspired. Still, I was there with a purpose, and it was immensely rewarding on a professional level.

Years in Europe

Eventually, I returned to Europe—this time to the University of Warwick in the UK, where I entered the next phase of my life. It was enriching in many ways, with meaningful relationships and academic success. But the day-to-day lifestyle? It felt like it was built for robots, not humans. The focus was always on achievement, productivity, and checking boxes—rarely on joy or balance.

At the time, I didn’t even realize that this was becoming the theme of my life. I was too focused on climbing the academic and corporate ladder. The idea of how I was living—how I spent my days—was an afterthought. I was just another hamster on a very polished wheel.

I graduated with double majors, completed a placement at Rolls-Royce, and was preparing to move to a new position in Somerset, UK. On paper, I was ahead of schedule, right on track with my “master plan.” But then life reminded me of an old saying: “You make plans, and God laughs.”

Going Eastward — A Sudden Change of Plans

Life had other ideas for me. Carl Jung would call it synchronicities, referring to meaningful coincidences that appear to be connected but lack a clear causal relationship.

I put everything on hold and headed to Ankara, Turkey, to care for a loved one who was battling a serious illness. The circumstances were difficult, of course, but even under better ones, I doubt Ankara would have won me over. It was bitterly cold—physically and emotionally. Another administrative capital. No sea, no sense of life outside the bureaucratic grind, that’s something Ankara shared with Nicosia, Washington D.C., and, Midlands, UK.

It was just another grey-suit city: boxed-in days spent in traffic or between four walls, barely any nature, barely any community. My meals came in plastic containers; music was replaced by noise. The lights were on, but no one seemed to really be living. You probably get the vibe—and I sincerely hope you never have to feel it.

I wasn’t even California dreaming—because I’d never even experienced California. But thankfully, God’s plan was better than mine.

Back to Nicosia — And a Perspective Shift

Eventually, I returned to Nicosia, my hometown, and as fate would have it, a close friend of mine came to visit from Hong Kong. I offered to show her around—only to realize she knew more about Cyprus than I did. She had done her research, while I was still a stranger in my own country.

We planned an itinerary and set off together for two weeks. That trip changed everything for me. It gave me a new perspective—not just on Cyprus, but on what I wanted the next chapter of my life to look like.

The truth is, I was never supposed to be there. If it weren’t for a string of unexpected disruptions in my original plans, I would have been elsewhere. But there I was—and that twist of fate sparked the beginning of something new.

Falling in Love with Home Again

We traveled from town to town—bar-hopping in the old city of Famagusta, soaking up the peace of the secluded beaches in Karpasia, and exploring Kyrenia’s antique harbor, its fairytale-like castles, mountains, and vibrant nightlife. The people, the rhythm, the spontaneity—all of it blew me away.

That summer is etched into my memory so clearly. I couldn’t believe that all this joy and richness had always been right under my nose.

So, I made a bold decision:
I cancelled my plans, turned down job offers, and bought a run-down property with a generous patch of land—tucked between the mountains and the sea on the North Coast. It was incredibly affordable. Fixing it up wasn’t without challenges, but within a couple of months, I transformed it into a short-term rental.

That marked the beginning of my journey in real estate tourism in Cyprus. What started as an impulsive choice became a career move that would eventually thrive beyond my expectations.

Today, I can confidently say:
I found the best of both worlds—a fulfilling career that would’ve taken decades to build elsewhere, and a dream lifestyle most people don’t get to experience until retirement.

What I Loved Most — 6 Reasons Why Kyrenia, Why Cyprus

1. Safety

Top of my list for choosing Kyrenia is the safety and security I feel here. Big cities often come with an inevitable rise in crime—but that tradeoff was never worth it for me.

What’s the point of working hard, earning well, and buying the things you love, if you can’t wear or enjoy them freely because it’s unsafe? In some places, those very things can make you a target. I had a few unfortunate experiences in the UK, and they left a lasting impression.

Feeling safe as a single young woman isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. And it’s not just a women’s issue; seniors, families, and really anyone with peace of mind in mind would agree. Living without that constant background stress is a gift. I can dress up, enjoy life, and share my days openly—without fear.

2. Mental Health & Wellbeing

Mental health is multi-dimensional—and Cyprus checks many of the boxes.

Safety is one part. But there’s also easy access to seasonal, organic, and affordable food, which plays a huge role. My area is wonderfully walkable—I live a short stroll away from both the Kyrenia city center and the beach, and the forested mountains are also within reach.

It’s become my routine: morning swims in the sea, and evening hikes in the mountains—bookending my workday with grounding activities that reset my stress levels.

There’s also so much to do. Paddleboarding, keeping a boat in one of the marinas, joining a golf or tennis club, or simply diving into new hobbies—the options are endless.

What I love just as much is the laid-back lifestyle and the sense of community. I’ve met incredible people from all around the world. The flea markets on weekend mornings, the dancing on Friday nights, the little moments of connection—all things modern urban living is slowly losing.

The English language acts as a bridge between cultures here, blending worldviews, cuisines, and stories. You quickly realize how much we all have in common as human beings first.

And of course, the weather. Over 300 days of sunshine a year—it’s a big upgrade from the grey life I had in the UK.

The lifestyle here makes it easier to stay physically and mentally fit, and my overall quality of life has improved dramatically since making the move.

3. Easy Access

Despite being an island, Cyprus is incredibly well-connected. Flights to most of Europe are relatively inexpensive, and I love hopping on a plane to:

Catch the Christmas markets in London
Enjoy the southern coast of France in summer
Go on shopping trips in Istanbul

So many diverse experiences are just a few hours away, which is a real perk if you’re someone who values variety in your lifestyle.

4. Healthcare and Education

There’s always chatter about how these systems could improve—but I say that with perspective.

After dealing with the NHS in the UK and hearing horror stories about the cost of basic care in the USA, I cannot praise Cyprus’s healthcare and education systems enough.

Both are almost free, with only a small monthly contribution for public services.

Public schools, if you earn good grades, can take you to Ivy League-level education. I’ve seen it happen.

And healthcare? I’ve had two major personal experiences here:

When I had an appendectomy, I was severely poisoned before I even made it to the hospital
When my father survived an aneurysm last year

The care we received was quick, free, compassionate, and competent. You only truly appreciate systems like these when you need them.

5. Entertainment & Social Life

Yes—I love a good night out dancing with friends. But Kyrenia’s entertainment scene offers far more than just clubs and music.

Some of my favorite moments have been at:

Beach cinemas under the stars
Art exhibitions and book launches
Poetry readings and wine tastings
Historical reenactments and cultural fairs

There’s always something new happening—and I’m always up for trying it. Life is meant to be experienced, and I consider myself a bit of a collector of moments.

Even daytime is vibrant: from beachside brunches to flea markets and shopping sprees, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy yourself as long as you have the right attitude and company.

6. Aesthetics — The Mediterranean Dream

This one’s harder to describe, but it matters just as much to me.

There’s a particular aesthetic to life here—a mix of Greece, Southern France, and Italy. It’s deeply Mediterranean, and it’s everywhere you look:

Pink bougainvillea spilling over whitewashed villas
Sea views around every corner, framed by mountains
Summer dresses, linen shirts, coffee culture, and a shared sense of style and ease

It’s not just about architecture or fashion or nature—it’s the blend of all three. For me, it’s like tying the whole lifestyle up with a beautiful silk ribbon. It feels whole.

Challenges (Just a Few)

Of course, it’s not perfect.

My biggest challenge at first was adapting to the pace. Bureaucracy here can be frustratingly slow. In my early years, I found myself losing patience constantly. Over time, I’ve learned to just accept that life runs on a different rhythm here—and that’s okay.

Another minor inconvenience? Shipping delays. I shop from overseas fairly often, and let’s just say: if you’re in a rush, don’t be.

Residency in Northern Cyprus: What It Takes for Americans in 2025

The good news? Northern Cyprus offers one of the easiest residency pathways for Americans (and most foreigners). With minimal requirements, low costs, and a high quality of life in return, it’s become an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a Plan B lifestyle upgrade.

✅ Residency Requirements for Americans

Here’s what it takes:

1. Property Ownership

This is the most common and straightforward route to residency.

No minimum investment required — Unlike other countries that require you to buy property worth €250,000 or more, there’s no minimum property value here.
In 2025, beachfront condos under $100,000 are still available in Northern Cyprus.
Many properties can be secured with as little as £20,000 down (30–40% down payment).
Interest-free financing is often offered by developers.
No mortgage payoff required — You can apply for residency once the property is ready to move in, even if you’re still paying it off in installments.

🔒 Note: The only restriction is that the property must be at least 500 meters away from a military zone.

2. Financial Proof

You must show either:

A monthly income equal to at least one minimum wage (approx. $15,000 USD per year), or
A bank balance showing 12 months’ worth of minimum wage in savings.

This is not a high bar, and it can include pension, rental income, remote work, etc.

3. Clean Criminal Background

A basic but non-negotiable requirement — a clean criminal record is essential.

📄 Documents Required for Residency Application (North Cyprus)

Passport (original and copy)
Copy of your entry stamp into Northern Cyprus or your previous residence permit
Passport-sized photograph
Original Mukhtar’s letter (a residency confirmation from the local village leader or municipality)
Copy of the stamped Contract of Sale or Title Deed
Copy of the Permission to Purchase (PTP) application
Copy of Land Registry receipt and Form 34N.A. showing registration of your purchase
Utility bills in your name (water or electricity)
Proof of full payment for the property (if applicable — not needed if under a payment plan with a completed home)
Bank statement showing either:
1. Monthly income = minimum wage, or
1. Savings = 12 months of minimum wage
If applying with children:
1. Child’s passport
1. Birth certificate translated into Turkish by a sworn TRNC translator
Proof that the property is habitable
1. If the property is still under construction, you cannot apply yet

📝 Final Note

Getting residency in Northern Cyprus is refreshingly straightforward. You don’t need:

To donate to a government fund
To hire expensive lawyers or agents
To invest hundreds of thousands of dollars

For those seeking a low-cost, low-stress Plan B, Northern Cyprus ranks among the best-value residency-by-investment options in 2025.

Newly Released Properties in Kyrenia, Cyprus

500m from the Sea | 5-Minute Walk to Camelot Beach Club | Prime Location in Lapta

Discover an exceptional real estate opportunity in one of Northern Cyprus’s most desirable coastal regions. Located in Lapta, just 10 minutes from Kyrenia city center, this newly launched development offers contemporary Mediterranean living in a well-connected and scenic setting.

Location Highlights

500 meters from the sea
5-minute walk to the renowned Camelot Beach Club
Close to cafes, restaurants, and bars
Proximity to the Merit Hotels area, nature trails, and coastal walking paths
Easy access to markets, hospitals, and schools
Approximately 57 km from Ercan International Airport

This location combines tranquil seaside living with the energy of a thriving social and cultural hub.

Project Features

Blending clean architectural lines with natural light and spacious design, this residential community is tailored for modern, comfortable living. Homes are designed with open-plan interiors, generous terraces, and a high standard of finish throughout.

The site includes:

Communal swimming pool
Fully equipped 24/7 fitness center
Secure, gated access with surveillance
Generator system for uninterrupted power
On-site café and restaurant

Ideal for individuals, couples, families, or investors looking for a primary residence, vacation property, or income-generating rental.

Payment Plans

Entry-level pricing with down payments starting from only 5%
Flexible installment options available
Interest-free financing offered by select developers, and banks

Why Kyrenia?

Kyrenia continues to attract both residents and investors for its:

Excellent quality of life
Low cost of living
Safe, community-focused environment
Growing short-term rental market
Access to international schools, healthcare, and modern amenities

As part of a region undergoing strategic growth, Kyrenia provides high potential for capital appreciation and lifestyle enhancement.

Photo Gallery

Contact for More Information

For brochures, pricing details, floor plans, or to schedule a private viewing, please contact us directly. Early inquiries are encouraged as demand remains high for this location.

Email: cyprus@mediterranean.condos

Until next time,

Soylem Coli, Mediterranean Condos