The former forward of Kharkiv’s “Metalist” Yevhen Budnik, who now plays for the Cypriot “Ipsonas”, shared what has been the most challenging for him in life in a country in the eastern Mediterranean.
Yevhen Budnik— Have you adapted in Cyprus yet?
— Yes, I have been here for the third season. I feel at home. Of course, I miss Ukraine, I miss Kharkiv. But I have already adapted.
— What was the hardest thing for you at the beginning of your career in Cyprus?
— Getting used to the slow pace. It was and remains a difficult moment for me. They do everything very slowly because they are not in a hurry. But perhaps this is typical for all residents of the south — they have a calmer attitude towards life.
— How else does the mentality differ from the Ukrainian?
— In fact, there is not much difference. They are mostly Christians too, and in general we are quite similar.
— Is there anything in Cyprus that could not be allowed in Ukraine?
— It’s hard to compare because we are currently at war. People have a completely different mood and state. But before the war, living in Ukraine was also good. It’s just that the pace here is different — everything is calmer, no one is in a hurry. Good weather, a lot of fruits and vegetables. In Ukraine, people are always in a hurry, working, living in dynamics. And here — it’s a different lifestyle.
— Do prices differ significantly from those in Ukraine?
— Yes, very much. Life here is expensive. For example, in Limassol, renting a well-furnished apartment costs about one and a half thousand euros per month.
— How much is needed on average for a comfortable life in Cyprus?
— It depends on the city and needs. If we talk about Limassol, where we currently live, for a family with a child — to rent housing, pay for transport, cover basic expenses — you need at least three and a half thousand euros a month.
Andriy Pavlechenko
