The climate – The Costas and Southern Spain have got the ideal climate to enjoy your retirement to the full and it is great for your health too – mild, dry winters and lovely summers.
The cost of living – A cheaper cost of living means that your pension goes further.
An outdoor lifestyle – Enjoy sunbathing all year and making full use of your garden.
Beautiful scenery – Gorgeous beaches, mountains, deserts and national parks.
Those are just three reasons, there are many more!
Spain is also becoming increasingly popular with expats of a working age who want a better life for their families. Many of these expats can continue working in their home country via the internet but still take advantage of Spain with its low cost of living and great family life.
Many expats make the move each year but many expats end up moving back. Why?
- Spanish life just wasn't what they expected.
- They run out of money.
- They are homesick and can't settle.
- Trouble finding employment.
- Frustrated with the language barrier.
Make sure that you aren't one of the ones that ends up moving back home.
Here are some top tips for expats in Spain to help you settle:
- Research – Don't move without researching and planning every step of the move.
- Make sure you will have an income – Don't rely on savings. Look for a job before you make the move or make sure that your business can make enough to pay for your cost of living.
- Location – Pick the right location for your needs. Make a list of what facilities you require and make sure that you only view properties in locations that meet your needs.
- Rent first – Keep a base in your home country and rent for a year in Spain. Not only will this help you to research the area more, you'll also be able to make sure that you have made the right decision without cutting all ties with home.
- Learn Spanish – Even knowing a little Spanish will help you to settle. You want to be able to say hello to your neighbours and order food and drinks don't you?! There are so many resources available – books, audio courses, classes and tutors.
- Socialise – Make an effort to get to know people. Join clubs and societies, talk to your neighbours, use the local bars and restaurants. Make friends.
- Realistic expectations – Your new life won't be perfect so don't expect it to be. It may be easier to cope with problems when the sun is shining, but you will still have problems!
- Healthcare – Make sure you are covered either through the social security system or by private health cover.
- Airport – Living within easy travelling distance will make it easier for friends and family to come and visit you and for you to travel. Having regular visitors will help to ward off homesickness.
These are just a few tips for expats in Spain and following these tips will enable you to have a better and more fulfilling life in Spain.
