What Made You Take the Leap?
Lera (People Experience Professional, relocated on her own): While working at my previous company, I was already considering moving abroad, and Cyprus was one of the destinations on my list. So, the decision wasn’t entirely unexpected — but it still felt like a leap of faith, especially since I had never been to Cyprus before. For me, it was one of those “now or never” moments better to try than live wondering what might’ve been.
Misha (Backend Developer, relocated with an Olde English Bulldogge): I was actively looking for an exciting job with relocation opportunities and strong employee benefits like health insurance, gym access, and overall support. I had several offers, but I chose Mayflower because, in addition to meaningful and engaging work, they also offer a great range of perks for employees and a comprehensive relocation package. The company covered my flight and my family’s, arranged all the necessary paperwork, provided housing for the first month, and even helped us buy a car. It was an easy decision.
Andrei (DevOps Engineer, relocated with two cats): I was inspired by the opportunity to live and work in such a beautiful place as Cyprus, with its warm climate and stunning nature. Besides, where else can you buy a convertible and drive it all year round?
Sergei (Infrastructure Engineer, relocated with family and a newborn baby): The sun, the sea, the opportunities.
How the Company Helped to Make the Decision
Lera: The company provided a wealth of information and support — everything from essential documents to a comprehensive guide that explained the “whys” and “hows” of relocation. Even though it wasn’t an easy decision, I felt fully supported. And on top of all that, my team lead made sure I got the full local experience in advance — sending me weather updates, and charming local cat tales. By the time I actually arrived, it didn’t feel like I was joining a new team — it felt like I was finally catching up with old friends I'd just somehow never met before.
Misha: As soon as I accepted the offer, we started discussing the relocation process in detail. I was a bit nervous because I needed to move with my dog, and that can be tricky. But the company was extremely supportive — they let me choose an airline that allowed pet transport, and we worked out a plan that made the timing and logistics as smooth as possible.
Andrei: The company offered comprehensive relocation support, including logistics arrangements and temporary housing. Overall, we were open to new experiences and connections, which made the decision much easier.
Sergei: I didn’t really need much support — my wife and I weighed the pros and cons of moving and agreed that relocating would be more interesting than staying.
What It Was Like to Relocate
Lera: Honestly? Scary. The toughest thing I’ve ever done. I moved completely alone, no family, no pets, just me and my suitcases. But looking back now, I realize that even the biggest challenges are conquerable because you will always be supported.
Misha: I relocated with my Olde English Bulldogge — Eva, which came with its own set of challenges due to her size. Large dogs can’t travel in the cabin and need to be transported in special crates in the cargo hold. Because of that, we had to avoid layovers and split the move into two stages to reduce stress. The company provided a very detailed guide on how to relocate to Cyprus with a pet, including entry requirements, necessary documents, and general tips. Their support made what could’ve been a stressful process feel manageable.
Andrei: Moving with a pet turned out to be not that difficult, although it came with a few nuances. The main challenges: having to fly with Georgian Airlines instead of the more affordable WizzAir (plus from Tbilisi, not Kutaisi), and dealing with the peculiarities of Georgian sanitary services — due to their “siga-siga” pace, we had to change our tickets.
The transfer driver was very kind — he even showed us the nearest pet store. Our cats love traveling, so we didn’t have major issues. At the airport, they charmed the entire staff and became the center of attention.
Sergei: Though it was challenging, it was also exciting. I definitely felt supported. I moved first. My wife gave birth to our son, and we waited until he grew a bit and got his passport. Then we brought over my wife, the baby, and our two cats. Our mothers helped us with that. The relocation managers assisted with the necessary paperwork — and occasionally with a kind word.
What It Felt Like to Arrive in Cyprus
Lera: You know that classic scene in romantic comedies where the main character steps off the plane and sees someone holding a sign with their name on it? That was me. My very first minutes in Cyprus felt like I had walked straight into a movie. Even the tiniest details were taken care of: a card to enter the office, a SIM card to make calls and stay connected, an adapter for the power plugs, and even food and water in the fridge. Everything was covered. Even though it wasn’t required, my colleagues still helped me find a long-term rental sharing listings, contacts, and tips. Just because they could. That kind of support meant a lot.
Misha: We were warmly welcomed upon arrival — the driver who always picks up all the newcomers met us at the airport and took us directly to the apartment provided by the company. They helped us with the migration paperwork, gave us a tour of the office, and made sure we had everything we needed. I also received a welcome pack and all the work equipment I needed. It truly felt like we were being taken care of.
Andrei: When we first arrived in Cyprus, we were met at the airport and taken to a corporate apartment. No need to search for a transfer, location, or the “right person” — straight off the plane and into a cozy dinner at a café instead of a stressful hassle. Everything was organized at the highest level: airport transfer, corporate apartment, a welcome pack with useful little things. Detailed tutorials and consultations from the HR team and helpful colleagues were especially helpful during adaptation: registration in GESY (the public healthcare system, which makes all medical treatment significantly more affordable), paying utility bills, and contract review by legal staff.
Sergei: The first thing I felt when I arrived in Cyprus was the heat. When my family arrived, there was a sense of accomplishment. What the baby felt — I’m not sure, he can’t talk yet. As for feeling especially welcome from the company — they arranged airport transfers, which was very appreciated.
The Surprising Highlights No One Talked About
Lera: Post-move discoveries I didn’t see coming:
– The fruit trees? Beautiful. Not edible.
– Syrniki: my new breakfast soulmate.
– Slowing down and planning ahead is a life skill
– Freddo coffee = espresso but cooler (literally).
– You’ll need more SPF than you think.
– If it feels hot now, just wait an hour.
Misha: Yes — lots of small things that really add up: amazing food, friendly people, accessible healthcare, and the general island lifestyle. I’m still getting used to some aspects, but overall, it’s been full of pleasant surprises.
Andrei: We were so caught up in the relocation process that we hardly noticed any unpleasant moments. A pleasant surprise — artichokes and octopus in the corporate menu, and talented baristas who can draw any design you want in your latte foam!
Sergei: Nothing truly unexpected — my colleagues told me a lot before I came. Although, one surprise was how disorienting it is to cross the road with left-hand traffic. Very unusual.
Some Advice for Anyone Considering the Move
Lera: Even if you don’t feel fully ready, go anyway — and slowly it will start to feel right.
Misha: Go for it! Don’t be afraid — the company has everything in place to make the process smooth and comfortable. You’ll be fully supported from start to finish.
Andrei: My main advice — don’t be afraid of change and be open to new opportunities! Relocation is always a challenge, but with the support of the company and colleagues, it becomes much easier and turns into an exciting adventure.
Sergei: Bring sunscreen.
Do you want to join the team? Check out our openings. And see you on the island!
