For many, it is a dream to move to Spain. Living and possibly working in a Mediterranean country can seem like an exciting adventure. And with thorough preparation and knowledge, it can easily become a success.
Many employers have become more flexible about ‘remote’ working since the pandemic. Therefore, more people are daring to take the step. Because now, starting a life in another country while retaining a job and income is an attractive and safe option. Also, those who have already had a working life and now have a lot of time to spend in the sun could also consider buying a house in Spain. But, whatever your motive, we will give you 10 reasons why Living in Spain is so attractive.
Ideal climate
The weather in Spain is warmer, sunnier and more consistent compared to countries in the North of Europe. Summer usually starts towards the end of April and the warm days last until the end of October. And with a bit of luck, well into November. Rainy days never prevail in most of Spain. The many hours of sunshine and the associated vitamin D intake have a noticeable effect on mood. However, you should bear in mind that temperatures in the interior and a city like Madrid can rise considerably in the summer. The warmest months are much more pleasant on the coast, thanks to the fresh sea breeze.
High quality of life
Another reason to emigrate to Spain is the Spanish quality of life and the happier and friendlier people. This is mainly due to the pleasant climate. People spend more time outside socialising, are more talkative, and more open to strangers. However, it does help to have at least a basic knowledge of Spanish. Spaniards generally do not speak much English. Although, in tourist areas, this is changing. People in Spain generally seem less stressed. This is especially noticeable in the fact that they complain less. They focus on things like good food and being together with family and friends.
Fantastic beaches and scenery
It does not matter whether you go to the Costa del Sol, Costa Brava or the Balearic Islands: in Spain, you will find an incredible number of fantastic beaches, dune landscapes and bays. Plus enough hours of sunshine a year to enjoy life to the fullest. However, there are also breathtaking landscapes and beautiful, green mountain areas for hiking, climbing and even skiing in winter. It may therefore be a good idea not only to work in Spain but also to spend your holiday here.
Hispanic culture
In terms of culture and sights, there is an incredible amount to discover in Spain. Each city has its historical highlights, traditions and festivals that are typical for the region. New residents and holidaymakers can thus experience Spanish culture up close on numerous occasions. From Gaudi’s famous buildings in Barcelona, via the mosque-cathedra La Mezquita in Córdoba to the Alhambra in Granada, countless interesting museums, historic city and village centres, palaces, castles, caves and fortresses. Spain’s history has left numerous cultural traces worth exploring.
Spanish food
Mediterranean cuisine is known and loved all over the world for its healthy image. Moreover, the kitchen in Spain is as versatile as the country itself. The menu is dominated by fish and seafood dishes. In addition, Spaniards eat pork products and poultry. However, there is more emphasis on vegetables, legumes and rice. Spaniards like to eat in company and order dishes that they all share. The famous tapas and ‘raciones’ (portions) are ideal for this. If you work and live in Spain, it is useful to adjust your eating rhythm to the local temperatures and social life. Lunch is often eaten after 2.00 pm and dinner is not even thought of before 9.00 pm.
Easy socialising
Spaniards are social and, as mentioned earlier like to spend their free time in good company. In general, their focus is less on jobs and careers. Having enough free time and being able to spend it with friends and family is paramount. A lot of them start the day with breakfast outside the door. Don’t be surprised if terraces and cafeterias are pleasantly full between 10.00 am and 11.30 am. Or around noon they have a tapas together. On weekends, the emphasis is on lunch. Extensive dining with a group of people for up to six or seven hours. At least they take their time. Also, try not to get too impatient if you have to wait a bit longer in a queue at a cash register or counter because the person behind it is chatting extensively with the customer or a colleague.
Relatively low cost of living
The cost of living is relatively low in Spain compared to northern countries. Although, as elsewhere, Living in Spain is becoming more expensive as a result of the energy crisis and the war in Ukraine. Emigrating to Spain generally means that you have lower housing costs. That is, unless you want to live in popular cities such as Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona and Málaga. Moreover, the housing costs in the Balearic Islands (Ibiza and Mallorca) are also a lot higher than on the mainland. Supermarket prices do not differ particularly from those in the northern countries. Having a coffee or a drink or eating out, need not be expensive, as long as you do so on typical Spanish occasions.
Good healthcare
Spain has a good public health care system. If you work in Spain and pay taxes, you pay contributions to social security and you are insured through the public system. However, it is recommended that you also take out private insurance. This means that you often have a free choice of doctor and you can also contact the many English-speaking specialists who are mainly settled on the Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol. The public system is of good quality, but nowadays it is increasingly making the news because of staff shortages, with growing waiting lists as the most annoying consequence.
Many sports facilities
Spain has endless possibilities in the sporting field. From skiing in the mountain areas in winter to golfing along the coasts almost all year round. That coast is almost 5,000 kilometres long and there are plenty of water sports to be practised everywhere. Spain has beautiful areas for diving and snorkelling, surfing or kayaking. Fans of outdoor sports can also enjoy themselves inland. Think of cycling and mountain biking, climbing, hiking, canyoning in the mountains, etc. Spain offers a wide range of sports and leisure activities for active people.
Housing market
If you are considering moving to Spain, you need a home. A sensible option for those who do not yet know the country very well is renting. Especially in the coastal zones, many houses are rented with furniture. Keep that in mind before packing all your belongings. The supply of unfurnished rental properties is scarcer but usually cheaper. The advantage of renting first is that you can get to know a specific area well and find out if it suits you. Rents are much higher in the well-known Costas than inland or a smaller village. In any case, let yourself be well informed by a local professional who knows the market you are looking for well. The same applies when you want to buy a house. There is plenty of property for sale, but the same goes for house prices: the more popular the location, the more expensive. Here too it is wise to hire a good real estate agent and lawyer.
