Each country has little things about it that everyone needs to know before visiting. Cyprus is no different. After living on this island for a month, I put together a list of things I think everyone should know about our beloved Cyprus.

1. Staring problems

People stare all over the world. It's normal. However, in Cyprus, if you don't look like you belong there they HARDCORE stare. Example number one, as I left Starbucks I noticed a group of five guys was eyeing me. I felt them watch me as I passed by. I turn around half a block later and low and behold, they were still staring.

Example two, my friend and I went to the airport together and she kept saying that people were staring at us. I didn't think much of it until she said, "They're staring at me because I have dark skin, and at you because you're tall and blonde." Again, we didn't fit into their mold.

2. Catcalling

When I visited Italy, I thought the catcalling was bad. Well, my friends, I assure you it is nothing compared to Cyprus! I walked eight blocks home from the hospital had 12 cars honk, seven guys yell something I didn't understand, and more kisses were blown to me than you would ever want to know.

On the flip side, the men are very affectionate, but they normally leave you alone as soon as they know you aren't interested. They are also very sweet and open. A guy in my marketing class told me that I could use his spare room anytime I needed a quiet room for studying. And I know it wasn't meant in a sexual or creepy way.

3. Terrible drivers

Even though Cyprus is one of the safest countries, they also have the worst driving record ever. I've been here for over a month and I still haven't seen a single speed limit sign. More than not it sounds like there are drag races going on.

They also really don't care about the whole, "pedestrians have the right of way" law. They will hit you. They will not care.

Lastly, for anyone who thinks I can't park, I assure you that my parking skills are 110% better than these drivers'. They seriously park everywhere they shouldn't!!! Middle of the street? Looks good! Perpendicular when everyone else is parked parallel? Fuck yeah!

4. Language barrier

Of course, this happens everywhere you don't speak the language. Greek is so different than every other language that even the common words are a struggle. Definitely, learn a few key phrases!

5. Privacy issues

Privacy is not a thing in Cyprus. You have no personal bubble. If you are in line for a bus people will be right up on you. If you are paying for something at a store the person "behind" you, will be right next to you like you're best friends.

Also, when going through security at the airport if they see something in your purse they don't like, they will empty the contents of your purse into another bin in front of everyone. Tampons and all. So glad the hot guy behind me got to see all of that.

6. Wrong side of the road

Cyprus was colonized by the British. All that really concerns me about that is they drive on the wrong side of the road!! If you sit in the front seat while riding in a taxi you are going to have nightmares for weeks. Every time they turn you think you're going hit someone!

7. Stray cats

There is an abundance of stray cats in Cyprus. It doesn't matter where you are on the island, there will always be a cat or two around you. Now mind you, some of them are cute and healthy. But most of them look like they could come out of a zombie cat movie. If that's a thing. Pet at your own risk.

8. The birth control

Ladies, if you are staying in Cyprus for a long period of time and you are going to need to get/renew your birth control, know your options. There used to be an abundance of birth control here.

Now, not so much. If you are on the Depo Provera shot and it runs out while you're here, you are shit out of luck. There are no IUDs or injections. There are just pills. And no progestin-only pills, for you girls with migraines. Just plan ahead on this!

9. The toilets

In America and Europe, we throw the toilet paper in the toilet. In Cyprus... not so much. Cyprus doesn't have a good water system so the pipes can't handle it. You put it in a special trash can instead. It sounds incredibly disgusting but you get used to it. I got used to it pretty quickly considering I had food poisoning my first night here.