So what can Spain offer to foreign immigrants and expats:
1. The climate – Areas like the Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, Murcia and Andalucia enjoy year round sunshine and minimal rain. You can sunbathe and barbecue even in the winter. The Murcia region is recommended by the World Health Organization for its clean air and the Costa Blanca is recommended for its climate which can help those who suffer from asthma, rheumatism and arthritis – no more damp, cold winters!
2. A longer life – Spaniards live the longest out of all European nationalities. Living in Spain will lower your stress levels and you can enjoy the healthy Mediterranean diet which will lower your risk of various cancers and heart disease. Spain is great for your health.
3. Cost of living in Spain – The cost of living in Spain is significantly cheaper than many countries. British people will find that they can save anything from 15% to 50% by moving to Spain. How much you save all depends on your circumstances and whether you change your diet to eat like the Spanish, use markets, have a pool and use air-conditioning.
4. Culture – Spain has a great culture and interesting traditions. It is the country of bullfighting, flamenco, fiestas and fireworks. Spaniards take fiestas very seriously and celebrations can go on all night.
5. Food and Wine – Not only is the food healthy, it is also very tasty. Eat out and enjoy regional dishes and tapas and wash it down with a glass of Rioja. Eating out is cheap, especially if you order a menu del dia which often includes 3 or 4 course with a drink.
6. Pace of life – Enjoy a slower pace of life and become more relaxed. Once you have settled and made your way through the maze of bureaucracy that relocating to Spain involves, you will be able to relax. Take a siesta in the afternoon and take on the “manana” attitude of the Spaniards.
7. The outdoor life – Golfers can play golf at wonderful golf courses all year round, children can play out most days, runners and cyclists can enjoy the great outdoors most days and water-sport enthusiasts have great facilities on the costas.
8. The people – Spaniards are warm, friendly people who bend over backwards to help and to welcome you. If you have Spanish neighbours, you will always be able to call on them in times of trouble and they will enjoy trying to teach you the language.
9. New horizons – Relocation to Spain will definitely broaden your horizons. You will see new places, meet new people, learn a new language, learn about another country's culture and history, try food that you've never tried before and encounter new challenges. One thing's for sure, your life won't be boring!
10. The language – Moving to Spain will give you the opportunity to become proficient in a new language, Spanish, and young children will grow up to be bilingual, giving them many opportunities.
