Life in Spain is very different to life in the United States, Australia, the UK and even other continental European countries.

Let's look at the main differences:

• Food – Spaniards, especially those in southern Spain and the Costa Blanca, enjoy a healthy Mediterranean diet. This diet is rich in fruit and vegetables, fish and shellfish and olive oil, and is low in saturated fat, red meat and processed foods. Mediterranean people, such as Spanish people, are at a lower rate of heart disease even though they drink wine and smoke. If you eat like Spaniards, not only will you be enjoying great tasting food, you will be enjoying healthier food.

• Eating habits – Spaniards think it is funny that people from abroad eat lunch at midday and dinner at 6pm. Spaniards enjoy lunch anywhere between 3 and 4pm and an evening meal between 9 and 11pm – very different. They also take time over their meals, enjoying a number of courses.

• Siesta – Many hot countries enjoy a siesta in the afternoons and the Spanish people take their siesta very seriously. Shops close, blinds come down and towns and villages become ghost towns while the inhabitants recharge their batteries.

• Fiesta – Spaniards really know how to celebrate. Each town or village will have their own fiesta days and Saints' Days to celebrate and will celebrate with traditional food, plenty of homemade wine, music and dancing. Many fiesta celebrations involve processions, fire and fireworks.

• Cost of living – The cost of living in Spain is much cheaper than other countries, especially when you compare it to the UK. Property in Spain is cheaper than in many countries too. You can definitely get more for your money in Spain and enjoy a better quality of life in Spain.

• Climate – People who move to Spain can enjoy a great climate and Spain is one of the best places to live if you suffer from asthma, rheumatism or arthritis because it has clean area and warm, dry winters.

• Emotional well-being – Spaniards seem to be more happy with their lot in life. They do not complain and whinge like the English or Americans and are much more laid back. They definitely have a “Que sera, sera” attitude and this will eventually rub off on immigrants. The great weather, food and wine also help!

• Outdoors lifestyle – It's great to be able to barbecue even in the depths of winter, sunbathe in January and hang out the washing without worrying about rain. Sporty people can enjoy outdoor sports most days of the year and Spain is a golfer's paradise.

• Property in Spain – Many foreigners who move to Spain are amazed by what they can buy for their money in Spain – a villa with pool, a plush apartment in a resort or club with golf course, or an old country finca with fruit trees and olive trees. Spain offers a wide variety of property at prices to suit any budget.

• Education and Health – According to the World Health Organization, Spain's healthcare system is the seventh best in the world. Clean well-equipped facilities, professional staff and short waiting lists and times make seeking healthcare a stress-free experience as long as you are fluent in Spanish or take an interpretor along with you.

The Spanish education system is wonderful too and most expat parents have only good things to say about it. In coastal areas, there will be a choice of state schools, private schools, foreign schools and international schools.

Life in Spain can be wonderful, a paradise even, as long as you plan it carefully and sensibly. Enjoy your new life.