'Tragedy saw us swap UK for Cyprus - we have no regrets'

A British family who became fed up with UK life and gruelling work hours relocated to Cyprus - and say they are enjoying a more content existence on one parent's wage than they managed on two back home.

Sarah Moore, 48, and her husband James, 47, had been bringing up their children Bea, nine, and Miles, five, in Marton, Middlesbrough. However, the couple grew weary of 60-hour working weeks that left little time for family, £400-a-month heating and council tax bills, and rising crime levels.

Sarah, a former educator, also became sceptical of the schooling system where Bea was battling pressure and severe criticism from overworked staff, she explained. IT specialist James, who had lived in Cyprus during his twenties while serving in the military, proposed relocating there - for better work-life balance, reduced crime statistics, and more economical living costs.

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Following a job offer in IT in Protaras - on a UK salary with a British firm, but working remotely - in November 2024, they relocated in April this year. Sarah and James claim the entire family were 'immediately more content'.

Currently, they report feeling more secure, the youngsters love their new international school, and monthly rental costs for their villa are practically identical to their mortgage payments back in Britain despite having additional space, a seafront position, and a swimming pool.

James works fewer hours but earns sufficient income for the household to survive on a single wage - providing more family time than previously possible. Stay-at-home mum Sarah said: "In the UK schools, there is so much pressure on the kids and they were both unhappy.

"And James and I were working such long hours but life is so expensive in the UK. James applied for a job in Cyprus almost on a whim. We thought if it didn't work out, we'd call it an adventure and then move back home. But everything is amazing and the place is absolutely beautiful. It's a dream I never thought would be possible."

Sarah had previously worked as a teacher in the UK but became "disillusioned" by the education system. She said Bea in particular struggled with the pressure and even struggled to sleep at night as a result.

Sarah said: "Bea is very intelligent but the environment - well, oppressive is too strong a word, but it was not enjoyable. In my experience over 20 years of teaching at several UK schools, it's the same everywhere."

Also acknowledging the lengthy working days, tough work-life balance, and insufficient family time, Sarah and James first discussed relocating. Their decision was solidified following the Southport stabbings in July 2024 which saw three children killed at a dance class - similar to one attended by Bea.

Sarah said: "I know we were nowhere near Southport, but we could imagine it happening. We didn't want to live in a place where that happens."

James suggested Cyprus after residing there in his 20s and adoring it. Sarah said: "James said English is widely spoken, they drive on the same side of the road, and the crime rates are low.

"Plus, the education system appealed to me, living costs are lower, the weather is amazing and the people are known to be very warm and welcoming."

They swiftly made themselves at home in a three-bedroom property complete with swimming pool, mere moments from the shoreline in a family-orientated area. Although Sarah remains unemployed due to visa restrictions, their monthly rent stands at just €1,500 (£1,311) - whilst James clocks up 20 fewer working hours compared to his previous UK role.

She explained: "We can afford the life on just one income. The council tax here costs for the year what we paid per month in England. Petrol is definitely cheaper too - and you don't even fill your car yourself, someone comes and fills it for you! We go out for a meal once a week and what would cost £100 in England costs just £68 here."

Sarah revealed that the kids are enjoying their international school so much that Bea has returned to sleeping soundly throughout the night. Sarah noted the educators face reduced pressure, making everything more pupil-focused while parents receive greater encouragement to engage in their youngsters' learning journey.

Meanwhile, Miles will remain in nursery to "learn through play" until age seven, rather than four or five back in Britain - with class sizes capped at 20 pupils. She continued: "English is widely spoken but the kids learn Greek too - my son's class is entirely bilingual.

"Everyone is absolutely lovely - a wide variety of nationalities - the teachers, parents and our neighbours are so friendly and make an effort."

Sarah says their new lifestyle has made their home a dream come true, allowing them to spend more quality time together and have fun.

She shared: "It's beautiful with gorgeous beaches and more family time than I ever imagined. The kids get home at 2pm and my husband is home by 3pm so we can go for a lovely walk, or the beach or in the pool after school. On the weekends, we go to the beach, visit lovely villages or go to attractions like the waterparks or camel park."

They are so enamoured with their new life that they can't envision moving back to the UK. Sarah stated: "It was a big move but in a lot of ways, it wasn't scary.

"It felt like a no-brainer - us and the kids were so unhappy in the UK so we didn't have much to lose. Of course we do miss our family and friends back home, but they can come and visit us and see why we love it so much.

"I was amazed by how easy it has been and how quickly the kids have adapted. It's a dream I never imagined would be possible. What we've gained in terms of lifestyle and family time leaves me seeing no reason to return to the UK."

MONTHLY COSTS - CYPRUS VS UK:.

Grocery shop: £100 a week - same in both countries.

Monthly rent/mortgage payments: £1,200 in UK, and £1,300 in Cyprus.

Meal out: £60-£70 in Cyprus, £100 in UK.

Fuel for car: about 30p a litre cheaper in Cyprus.

Pint of beer: £3.60 in Cyprus, £5-£6 in UK.

Council tax: £25 a month in Cyprus, £260 a month in UK.