Are you considering making the move to Spain? We also looked seriously at Spain as our retirement location and did some serious research which we want to share with you. We’ve seen too many people fall in love with a place, move and then realize later that it is not what they expected. Don’t let this happen to you!
With its warm Mediterranean climate, rich culture, and laid-back lifestyle, Spain continues to be a top choice for expats and digital nomads. But before you pack your bags, it’s vital to weigh the pros and cons of living in Spain. We have lots to share! From the **plentiful things to do** and **delicious food** to the **slow bureaucracy** and **limited job opportunities**, we’ll cover it all. So, buckle up and let’s explore the realities of living in Spain!
Key Takeaways:
- Pros of living in Spain: The country offers a relaxed lifestyle, pleasant weather, delicious food, and proximity to other beautiful European countries. Additionally, the cost of living is low, public transport is good and affordable, and locals are friendly and welcoming.
- Cons of living in Spain: The slow bureaucracy, lack of job opportunities, and limited international, vegetarian, and vegan food options are some of the downsides of living in Spain. The language barrier and slow healthcare system are also notable challenges.
- Key considerations: Be sure to weigh the pros and cons and consider factors like your lifestyle, career goals, and personal preferences. Researching different regions and cities in Spain can also help you make an informed decision.
Pros of Living in Spain
A popular destination for expats and digital nomads, Spain offers a unique blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure. Here are the advantages of calling Spain home.
Plenty of Things to Do
Among the many benefits of living in Spain is the abundance of activities to enjoy. From visiting world-class museums and art galleries to hiking in the beautiful countryside, you’ll never be bored. And the best part? Many of these activities are free!
Low Cost of Living
With a lower cost of living compared to other European countries, Spain is an attractive option for expats. Your money will go further here, with affordable rent, food, and transportation costs. Plus, you don’t need to break the bank to have a good time!
This affordability varies from city to city, with southern Spain generally being cheaper than central and northern regions. However, no matter where you choose to live, you’ll appreciate the value for money.
Good and Affordable Public Transport
Public transportation in Spain is efficient and affordable, making it easy to get around without a car. Madrid and Barcelona have fantastic public transportation systems, with underground, short- and long-distance trains, and buses connecting to the rest of Spain and other countries.
Transportation options extend beyond these cities, with reliable bus services and trains connecting smaller towns and villages. While driving may be necessary in rural areas, it’s not a necessity in urban centers.
Friendly, Welcoming Locals
Things that will strike you about Spain are the warm and welcoming locals. Making friends with Spaniards is easy, even if you don’t speak the language. They’re happy to help and find ways to communicate.
Another advantage is the strong expat communities in cities like Malaga, Alicante, and Tenerife. You can also join Facebook groups for expats in your area to connect with like-minded individuals.
The Laid-Back Lifestyle
What appealed to us was the more relaxed pace of life. Spaniards prioritize spending time with family and friends, and mealtimes are often leisurely affairs.
To fully appreciate this lifestyle, you’ll need to adapt to a more flexible schedule, where punctuality isn’t always a priority. While this may take some getting used to, it’s a refreshing change of pace for many expats.
Pleasant Weather Almost Year Round
An attractive aspect of living in Spain is the pleasant weather, which varies depending on the region. While northern Spain can be rainy and cloudy, southern Spain and the islands enjoy more sunshine and warmer temperatures.
Spain’s climate is characterized by significant differences between day and night temperatures, especially in winter. Be prepared for cooler evenings, even in the warmer regions.
Delicious Food
One of the top ten cuisines in the world, Spanish food is a fusion of Mediterranean flavors, with influences from the Romans, Moors, and other cultures. From paella and croquetas to tapas and pintxos, you’ll discover a diverse and delicious culinary scene.
Food in Spain is often locally sourced, with an emphasis on fresh produce, olive oil, and seafood. You’ll appreciate the high quality of ingredients and the rich flavors that come with them.
Proximity to Other Beautiful European Countries
Living in Spain means that you’ll have easy access to other stunning European destinations. With short flights or train rides, you can travel to Portugal, France, and other nearby countries.
We love to travel and being able to explore other European countries so easily really appealed to us.
Exploring the Culture of Spain
Spain has a rich cultural heritage and as an expat living there, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in local traditions, discover the country’s fascinating history, and enjoy the vibrant arts and entertainment scene.
Immersing Yourself in Local Traditions
Exploring local festivals and events is a great way to experience Spanish culture firsthand. From the Tomatina tomato-throwing festival in Buñol to the Feria de Abril in Seville, there’s always something going on in Spain. You can also join in on traditional activities like flamenco dancing or playing castanets.
Discovering the Rich History of Spain
If you’re a history buff you’ll learn that Spain has a complex and fascinating history, with influences from the Moors, Romans, and other civilizations. You can explore ancient ruins like the Alhambra in Granada, visit historic cities like Toledo and Segovia, or wander through museums like the Prado in Madrid.
For instance, did you know that Spain has over 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the works of Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona and the historic city center of Córdoba? You can spend hours exploring these incredible sites and learning about the country’s rich cultural heritage.
https://carefreeworldtravelers.com/are-you-a-soft-adventurer-traveler/
Enjoying the Vibrant Arts and Entertainment Scene
With its thriving cities and beautiful landscapes, Spain is a haven for artists and performers. You can enjoy world-class museums like the Reina Sofia in Madrid, attend a flamenco show in a traditional tablao, or explore the street art scene in cities like Valencia and Barcelona.
It’s no wonder that Spain has produced some of the world’s most famous artists, from El Greco to Picasso and Dalí. You can visit their studios, museums, and exhibitions to get a glimpse into their creative processes and inspirations.
Important note: While exploring Spanish culture, keep in mind that siestas are a big part of the country’s tradition, so many businesses and attractions may be closed during the afternoon. Also, be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when attending festivals and events. Positive detail: Spain’s cultural heritage is incredibly diverse, with influences from many different civilizations and regions. This means that you’ll have access to a wide range of cultural experiences and activities. Negative detail: Be aware of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, especially during festivals and events. Take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
We’ll be back with more great information in Part 2.
