This Is My Experience With Eva Air!

BY  Sibashree Aug 27, 2025

Have you decided to relocate to Cyprus for career purposes? That would be a wise decision as this island nation follows one of the EU’s most simplified tax regimes for expats. Beyond the economic aspects, you also get to enjoy year-round sunshine and its rich cultural tapestry.  Yet, the core question that you must be clear about before living this coastal life is, at the end of the day, what your real take-home pay will be? Relocation can be costly since it involves several factors, one of which is your net income. This is why it is necessary to validate your take-home pay; rent, healthcare, school fees, and day-to-day expenses can quickly accumulate if your financial estimates are off. Fortunately, Cyprus mandates a transparent and predictable taxation system, which is rather easy to navigate with the help of a Cyprus salary calculator. This guide explains how Cyprus’s 2025 tax rules work, demonstrating salary breakdown interpretation and offering a step-by-step case study example for clarity.  Decoding the Cypriot Tax System: The Core Components As per the Cypriot tax system, your net salary isn’t just your gross salary after deducting “a flat tax.” Instead, it’s the final value of a progressive income tax system, and a few compulsory, specific deductions. When you understand all these core pillars, you can proceed toward accurate financial planning. The Progressive Income Tax Brackets (2025) For the 2025 tax year, typically running on a calendar-year basis, Cyprus applies a progressive structure: Annual income tax (€)Tax rate 0-19,5000%19,501-28,00020%28,001-36,30025%36,301-60,00030%Over 60,00035% Optimizing Around the €19,500 Tax-free Threshold A unique feature of Cyprus’s progressive income tax system is the €19,500 tax-free threshold. This threshold is indeed advantageous for those moderate and higher earners, protecting a significant portion of their income from taxation by lowering their effective tax rate.  That is why it is often suggested to optimize financial planning, such as contributing to approved pensions, life insurance, or charitable donations (within the 1/5 cap), to further reduce taxable income. Structuring income and deductions strategically around this threshold is one of the simplest ways to optimize your relocation budget. Social Insurance Contributions (Sic) Everyone, including you and your employer, is liable to contribute towards the national Social Insurance Fund, which supports pensions, sickness benefits, and unemployment protection.  However, the limit of contribution varies by party: Employee contribution: 8.8% of gross salary Employer contribution: 8.8% of gross salary Annual cap: €66,612 (as per 2025 figure) Now, this annual cap highlights that even if your yearly income crosses €66,612, you aren't liable to pay Social Insurance on the portion above that limit. For high earners, this annual cap significantly lowers the effective contribution rate. The General Healthcare System (Ghs / Gesy) The healthcare sector in Cyprus is funded by the General Healthcare System (GHS), the amount of which is contributed by everyone living and working in the country through the comprehensive GeSY healthcare system. They provide all-inclusive medical coverage to residents, including GP visits, specialists, and hospital services. Employee contribution: 2.65% of gross salary Employer contribution: 2.90% Cap: €180,000 annual earnings Unlike Social Insurance, the GHS cap is high, where most employees have to pay the full 2.65% on their entire income. Employer vs. Employee Contributions If you are an employee negotiating your salary, be clear about your gross salary (the basis for your tax obligations and deductions) and the cost to the company (gross salary plus employer-side contributions). For employees, the compulsory deductions include: 8.8% Social Insurance (capped) 2.65% GHS Income tax per progressive brackets For employers, the mandatory obligations are higher and include: 8.8% Social Insurance 2.90% GHS 2.0% Social Cohesion Fund (no cap) 1.2% Redundancy Fund 0.5% Human Resource Development Fund Up to 8.0% Central Holiday Fund (unless exempt) Now, assuming that you are an employee structuring your budget, prioritize employee deductions. However, do not ignore the employer’s additional costs; understanding them would be beneficial during salary package negotiations, provided that benefits are negotiable. Case Study Example: Net Pay on a €50,000 Gross Salary This hypothetical example of €50,000 annual gross salary would help understand what the final take-home pay looks like in 2025 for an employee with no special expat exemptions or extra allowances. Step 1: Calculate Deductions Social Insurance: 8.8% of €50,000 = €4,400 GHS: 2.65% of €50,000 = €1,325 Step 2: Apply Progressive Income Tax €0-€19,500 @ 0% = €0 €19,501-€28,000 (€8,500 @ 20%) = €1,700 €28,001-€36,300 (€8,300 @ 25%) = €2,075 €36,301-€50,000 (€13,700 @ 30%) = €4,110 Total income tax = €7,885 Step 3: Net Pay €50,000 − €4,400 − €1,325 − €7,885 = €36,390 per year≈ €3,033 per month (assuming 12 equal payments). However, if your employer pays a 13th salary, a common practice in Cyprus companies, your monthly net pay will be even lower but spread across 13 payments. For that, you can use a Cyprus salary calculator to model these variations instantly. How Employer Costs Compare Using the same case study example of €50,000 gross salary, here’s what the employer’s total annual outlay would look like: Social Insurance: €4,400 GHS: €1,450 Social Cohesion Fund: €1,000 Redundancy Fund: €600 HR Development Fund: €250 Holiday Fund (if not exempt): €4,000 Total Cost: With holiday fund exemption → €57,700 Without exemption → €61,700 This difference is the reason to negotiate your salary package as much as possible. Moreover, some employers even offset holiday fund obligations by allowing extra paid leave instead. Final Words Relocating to an entirely new place with a new environment and legal systems is an adventure. But by taking control of your financial details upfront, and using the progressive tax brackets, understanding obligated deductions, and leveraging a precise Cyprus salary calculator, you can overturn uncertainty into confidence.

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 23, 2024

Welcome to the country of red rock canyons, expansive views framed by arches and sandstone spires. Spreading national forests, vast wilderness areas, quaint state parks, and five national parks in Utah make up more than seventy-five percent of its land area that is open to the public. The southern portion of Utah is home to all the state's national parks. The "Mighty Five" are worth the hype, from the breathtakingly steep yet sublime Zion Canyon to the mind-blowing hoodoos of Bryce and the famous Delicate Arch. Additionally, these parks offer at least a dozen hidden gems, peaceful trails, and less-traveled roads for every must-see highlight. How, then, can one outwit the masses? The easiest solution is to leave when other people aren't. This may mean a trip in the winter, when the temperatures are much more bearable than in the sweltering summer, and the snow adds an extra magical quality to the hoodoos. Since all national parks in Utah are accessible year-round, you can schedule a stargazing expedition or a sunrise tour. However, bear in mind that the hours of local eateries and visitor centers change if you visit during the off-season, which runs roughly from November to February. Despite this, you can find cheaper lodging during this time. Here, being proactive pays off very well. Popular hikes have permits that sell out months in advance. The most sought-after lodges and campgrounds (particularly those inside the park) frequently have a year-long waiting list. You can make a lot of these reservations at www.recreation.gov. The top attractions of the national parks in Utah, listed from east to west, include must-see locations, undiscovered treasures, and insider advice for maximizing each trip. National Parks in Utah How many national parks in Utah, you ask? The answer is easy because they call it the “Mighty 5” for a reason. Here, we are listing all the state parks in Utah that you could plan a visit to. We are also going to help you with all the stuff you must pack when planning a trip. Zion National Park With its soaring canyon walls and hanging gardens, Zion National Park, the first of the national parks in Utah and the 13th in the United States, is a popular destination on many people's bucket lists. The park's main road now closes to private vehicles during peak season (March to October) due to its increasing popularity, requiring visitors to take a shuttle. One advantage is that you can bike this almost flat, picturesque drive. You can rent bikes and e-bikes in nearby Springdale (check out Zion Cycles). Two to six months in advance of your trip, you must apply for a permit if you plan to hike the popular Angels Landing trail. If possible, stay at Zion Lodge or in neighboring Springdale. Make reservations up to 13 months in advance for any lodging in or around Zion. Explore the park's Kolob Canyons area or the more sedate paths off Kolob Terrace Road when you're ready to forgo the tourist traps. Bryce Canyon National Park At Bryce, the main draw is the bizarre spires that have been formed over millions of years. Ultimately, this location has the highest concentration of these hoodoos worldwide. The best (and quickest) way to satisfy your thirst for hoodoo views is to take the main park drive and take the Navajo Loop from Sunset Point or the Queen's Garden Loop from Sunrise Point. Try a portion of the 23-mile Under-the-Rim Trail or one of those trails down to Fairyland Loop for a more immersive hike. Take the back entrance into Bryce Amphitheater via Tropic Trail from the small town of Tropic to have some hoodoos all to yourself. While there, you can also have lunch at i.d.k. Barbecue a state favorite. Bike the dirt Thunder Mountain Trail or the paved Red Canyon Path to discover a more sedate hoodoo landscape. The historic Lodge at Bryce Canyon is the perfect base camp for exploring the park; however, if reservations are unavailable, consider lodging at one of the nearby hotels in Bryce Canyon City. We also think Under Canvas Bryce's campsites are great. Capitol Reef National Park The quietest of the national parks in Utah boasts a magnificent environment that is attributed to the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile geologic wrinkle in the earth. Petroglyphs and the historic Fruita Orchards, which the park still cares for, are two of the area's unique attractions. Try the fresh pies at Gifford Homestead, which is close to the park entrance and made with local fruit, such as apples or peaches.  Take a leisurely stroll along the former main highway through Capitol Gorge. Or brave the steep trail to Cassidy Arch, where there are rumors, that Butch Cassidy escaped the law. If you have a decent 4WD car, you, too, can escape (from other travelers). Notom-Bullfrog Road intersects with Burr Trail Road, another backcountry route, and leads to Lake Powell. Burr Trail leads to Boulder, the starting point for Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument and the location of Hell's Backbone Grill, possibly the best restaurant in Utah. It stays open in spring through fall. You should make reservations in advance. If you stay in one of the lodges in this small town that is only five minutes from the park, Boulder is close, but Torrey is closer. Canyonlands is divided into five distinct districts, each providing a unique experience. Island in the Sky is a place of expansive vistas. Don't miss Mesa Arch or Shafer Trail Viewpoint. The Needles District is a great place to go hiking. It's only about 20 miles south of the Island in the Sky as the crow flies (two hours drive). One of the best hiking routes is the action-packed Cave Spring Trail. It features a replica of an 1880s cowboy camp and mushroom-like rock formations. Canyonlands National Park Get lost in the Maze. Other worthwhile stops in this backcountry district are Chocolate Drops and the Land of Standing Rocks. See amazing petroglyphs, including floating "holy ghosts," by traveling to the non-contiguous Horseshoe Canyon unit. For a rafting adventure, head to the River District, which is at the base of the canyons formed by the Colorado and Green Rivers. The best place to stay for most of the park's district is Moab, which provides quick access to the park's rivers, the Needles, and Island in the Sky. Arches National Park Arches, the inspiration behind Ed Abbey's famous Desert Solitaire, has evolved significantly since 1968. Because of its increased activity, the park service is currently testing a timed entry system that will require reservations in advance from April to October 2023. However, it is possible to avoid a Disneyland experience. If you arrive before sunrise or remain past sunset, you will be rewarded with quieter trails and golden light that casts a glow over the arches. Be an early bird or a night owl. This is feasible because Moab's closest lodging options are situated sufficiently near the park's entrance. If you would prefer not to get up early, reserve a campsite at Devils Garden up to six months in advance or take a ranger-led tour to see the Fiery Furnace area, which is accessible only with a permit. Travel Checklist When Visiting the National Parks in Utah Planning a trip to the national parks in Utah is as fun as it is a massive plan to come up with. You must be well prepared for the weather you will be subject to both in the day as well as night. The few days that you will spend here will be nothing short of an adventure. Here is a list of things that you must have with you if your destination includes the national parks in Utah. Hardy Water Shoes The red desert dirt in Utah can be extremely sticky. You should invest in good water shoes if you intend to go river rafting, canoeing, or kayaking. When participating in water activities, flip-flops are not advised. They will become stuck in the mud and either break or get sucked down the river.  Your feet will be safe if you hike the rocky Virgin River through the Narrows in Zion National Park wearing rubber-toed shoes covered with firm soles. (Near Zion's Springdale entrance, you can rent an entire dry gear outfit, including shoes.) Blacklight Flashlight Scorpios are nocturnal creatures that hide during the day. Use your black light to identify them; the light from it causes these odd creatures to glow. Don't worry too much about scorpions because there is only one species in the Southwest that is thought to be deadly. Sun Protection The strength of the Utah sun only needs to be experienced once, especially in the desert, where there isn't much shade to be found. There will be certain hikes you take or picnic tables you sit at where there isn't a single spot to hide from the sun and heat of the desert. If possible, bring a wide-brimmed hat to cover your entire face. That would be better than a baseball cap. Next, cover all exposed skin, including the back of your neck, with sunscreen. Don't forget to wear sunglasses for eye protection. Polarized lenses will improve your vision and shield your eyes from burns. Recall that at 8,000 feet, you are closer to the sun than you are at sea level. If you're going to be on the water, get some sunglasses straps. It's annoying to watch your new shades drift away with you. Rain Jacket You might wonder, who takes rain jackets into the desert? Yes, we do. Each time we come to town. Even the desert experiences occasional, albeit brief, bursts of rainfall. You want a jacket that will keep you dry and warm when it pours, and the temperature drops. Hiking Boots Bring a pair of supportive, water-resistant, and breathable hiking boots to maximize your experience. These will make it easy for you to travel both dry and wet trails, allowing you to go farther than you otherwise could have. They also shield your feet from trail stones, cactus needles, and maybe even snakebites. Here's a staff member who can't stop gushing about his Sportiva Synthesis Mid GTX to get you started on your research. Vasque Skywalks GTS was highly appreciated by our friends at Backpacker.   Water Bottle Carry a sizable water bottle that you can fill with your garden hose prior to packing if you intend to go camping. With the jug, you can travel with water wherever you go. This means you can cook, stay hydrated, and make coffee in the morning even if you find yourself at a campsite without water. A water pump is typically available at campsites so you can replenish as needed. Hydration The air in the desert is so dry that perspiration quickly evaporates. Often, sweating is invisible to you. By staying hydrated, you can prevent dehydration, which can cause headaches as well as more severe ailments like heat stroke and cramps. Make a drinking plan of 5 to 1 liter for each hiking hour. Make sure to continue drinking even when you are not recreating. You are hydrated if your urine is clear. We adore carrying our CamelBak with us so we can continue to sip while we’re out and about. If you find yourself severely dehydrated or in need of quick hydration recovery, mobile IV therapy in Houston or at any needed location can be a lifesaver. These services offer on-site hydration solutions that can help replenish your body's fluids and electrolytes efficiently while you're still enjoying your outdoor activities Warm/Cool Clothes Temperatures in the national parks in Utah desert can vary by up to 30 degrees in a single day. So, pack light clothing for the day and warm clothing for the evenings. Include a winter hat for when the sun sets, and the cooler air moves in. As for national parks in Utah, this is particularly crucial in the fall, winter, and spring. Temperatures here can drop sharply after precipitation and sunset. Maps There are an amazing variety of trails and overlooks in each of Utah's five national parks. Having a map is beneficial. You can either get your maps in advance and get them now, or you can wait until a park ranger hands you one at the entrance station. Get the NatGeo Utah National Parks Map Pack, which includes detailed topographic maps, at REI.com or download free PDF maps. Star Chart/App The national parks in Utah have some of the darkest skies. You can recognize some of the formations you might not have noticed otherwise with the help of a star chart. Particularly so if you are traveling from an urban area. Alternatively, you can make use of technology and download the SkyView app for Android or iPhone. This app allows you to point your phone at objects to identify stars and other objects. In contrast to the 500 stars in an urban sky, you might be able to see up to 15,000 stars in a desert. It's a long way off! Tablecloth The little things add up to a significant impact. Pull out your tablecloth when you stop for lunch at the weathered picnic table by the side of the road, and you'll go from rustic to elegant in an instant. Additionally, by avoiding leaning against the table, you'll prevent difficult-to-remove splinters. Bug Spray Rather than swatting insects, spend more time taking in the beauty. These days, there are many bug sprays made from natural ingredients that are safer for kids to use if you don't want to use harsh chemicals. Our choice is the Sawyer 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent, which is great for families. According to Consumer Reports, this formula offers the best defense against mosquitoes. In addition to being highly effective against ticks and biting flies, Sawyer's insect repellent won't harm tools or equipment. Wrapping Up The national parks in Utah serve as a living example of the amazing natural beauty and geological marvels that abound in the American Southwest. These protected landscapes preserve the natural heritage of the area. They also provide an opportunity for visitors to engage with the profound forces that have shaped the Earth over millions of years. The terrain ranges from the majestic red rock formations of Arches and Canyonlands to the captivating canyons of Zion and Bryce Canyon. The national parks in Utah invite us to discover, value, and safeguard the delicate wonders that make our planet truly remarkable. They serve as entry points to adventure, education, and environmental stewardship. In addition to creating lifelong memories, experiencing Utah's breathtaking scenery also helps to continue the legacy of conservation, guaranteeing that these natural treasures will be appreciated for many years to come. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about national parks in Utah, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: From Festivals To Spas: The Top Things To Do In Park City Utah From Museums To Parks: The Top Attractions In St George Utah A Guide To Adventure And Nature: The Best Things To Do In Moab Utah For Outdoor Enthusiasts

BY  sagnika May 13, 2024

This is a call to action for all beach lovers! I am here with a list of nine beaches in Perth that will satisfy your urge to submerge yourself in the water and the activities that come with it. You will not be disappointed if you visit even one of these nine beaches. They are a collection of beaches with good views and different activities, including swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and scuba diving! Australia is known for its diversity in flora and fauna. If you are visiting Perth, they are a must. I am a mountain lover, but there is something in the sea and the wide expanse of the ocean that takes your breath away! Beaches are designed by nature to relax individuals into doing things they do not get time to do regularly. So, what is the best time to visit Australia? If you sit on the beach with a drink in hand and stare at people, you will have the best time of your life. I am also a reader, so if you spread your body along the white sand and read a book, I am sure you will have this relaxing memory for the rest of your life. 9 of the Best Beaches in Perth that You Must Visit So why are you looking for beaches in Perth? Did you know that, apart from Perth, other coastal areas in Australia, such as beaches in Sydney and Melbourne, are beautiful and worth visiting? Sometimes, even the locals need clarification about which one they should go to. The soft white sand is a visual treat, along with the crystal-clear water. When you think of a perfect day out, these beaches will rescue you. You can relax in the sun, and there are various services such as shelter, restrooms, shops, and food joints! Let me share with you some of my favorite beaches, which are not just visually appealing but also perfect for various purposes. Some of these beaches help you enjoy solitude, while others are perfect for a family picnic or romantic date. Leighton Beach This is my favorite beach in Perth, not just because it is dog-friendly but also because the stunning blue water takes my breath away. The stunning stretch of land is perfect for relaxing, going out to swim, and then grabbing coffee or a delicious bite of food. There is a place to eat, Wooden Wagon, in the dog beach area, which is people's favorite! Another place is Orange Box, where you can go ahead, pull out a deck chair close to the main car park, and enjoy the ambiance. If you are more of a wine person, a new place is opening called North Fremantle, which offers a variety of snacks along with a long-curated list of wines. Cottesloe Beach An iconic beach among all bountiful beaches, Cottesloe is mentioned as one of the significant beaches in Perth! To experience this beautiful beach for everyone, you must drive from Perth, which will take 20 minutes. This is the most popular beach in Perth—the locals call it Cott! Surrounded by vistas and coastlines, this beach has it all. Whether planning a family outing with your kids or a romantic beach date with your partner, you'll find everything you need to enjoy the ambiance. If you are a typical beach lover, this is it for you. Find a great spot, sit for a drink at the Cottesloe Beach Hotel, and enjoy the sunset while people-watching! You also cannot miss the Prego Italian restaurant if you love Italian food. Scarborough Beach Scarborough Beach is known for people-watching in Western Australia. You must check out this popular ocean oasis. It is the most iconic sandy spot surrounded by a high-rise cityscape. You can see hotels, cafes, surf shops, and restaurants all around the beaches! I can assure you that this beach is a premium destination, so you can easily experience sheltered and safe swimming conditions. The white sand and crystal-clear blue sea are perfect places to hang out with your friends, family, or partner. From The Lighthouse Cafe to the Whole Earth Cafe, you must check out these places for food. These are some of the coolest restaurants in Australia you must visit! Another significantly popular restaurant is The Kitchen at The Shack and Celeste, where people go to have some of the best beach drinks. City Beach One of the busiest beaches in Perth, City Beach is in an amazing place—in the center of the northern suburbs of Perth! Apart from swimming and snorkeling, you can spread your towel and relax with a book and sunglasses. Many families visit this beach, so this beach has a happy-go-lucky vibe! People are mostly in a festive mood when they see this beach. You will encounter a wide boardwalk with several restaurants and places to eat. Mullaloo Beach The Mullaloo beach is quite ideal for you if you have children! It is a popular spot for swimming so that you can take a dip in the ocean's calm waters. You will feel completely rejuvenated! You should also visit the locally operated restaurants and bars where you can get your food fix! Along with the food, you also need to be more aware of the surroundings. Hence, you can go to the beach to enjoy yourself. Floreat Beach If you want to get away from the crowd from Scarborough Beach or City Beach for a while, you can go to Floreat Beach, located across the stretch of sand to the south of Peasholm Dog Beach. There is also a gravel track, so you can access the beach at different points. There might be some swells of waves, you can go surfing here. Have some solitude when you hang out on this beach. Mettams Pool Located in the northern area of West Coast Highway, this beach is perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts! Mettams have shelters along with grass; hence, you can easily take shelter if the wind is strong. There are several cafes across the coast so that you can hang out there after snorkeling! Furthermore, the view is so scenic your heart will flutter. Additionally, the reef is so beautiful you can explore it all by yourself! Trigg Beach If you are a surfer, darling, you must visit the Trigg beach! You can visit anytime as a tourist, but the locals always head there when the weather is wild, and the waves swell skyward. For experienced surfers, that is an adventure. However, if you are still a beginner, avoid rough weather. The rough waves rip your boat apart, or surfers can touch the sky! Perth's experienced surfers rate this beach as one of the best, which means you might find a lot of crowds. It is the mecca of surfing and quite popular among the locals! Along with the solitude, you will also get the thrill of adventure. Coogee Beach If you are staying in Perth City, you must travel to Coogee Beach by car, which will take about 35 minutes. If you are planning to visit this beach, you must try the jetty jumps, apart from going on a jetty for fishing! It is also considered one of the best beaches in Australia! A huge area is covered in grass where you can organize your family picnic. In the beach environment, there is an abandoned power station that you can visit before you go to the beach. Finishing Off... In short, the beaches in Perth are worth checking out, especially if you are a white sand and blue water fan. Beaches in Perth are not just a place to hang out but also the identity of the place. The pristine coastline brings several beaches with white sand and turquoise sea water. I have always wondered how free it feels when we go to the beach! In addition, I am sure you will feel the same energy when you go to these beaches; I have made a list of them in this blog. Along with surfing, snorkeling, or swimming, you can have a picnic or a barbeque. Comment on what you think is important when visiting a beach and enjoying yourself. Learn More About: 10 Things You Have To Do When You Visit Australia 8 Beaches Of Melbourne, Australia Where You Can Cool Off 8 Best Places To Live In Australia For You If You Have A Family