Want to move to Spain? Here’s what residents recommend.
Credit: Shutterstock, FTiare
A recent social media post asking, “What advice would you give someone moving to Spain?” prompted a flood of responses from long term residents and recent arrivals alike. The overwhelming message was clear. Success in Spain depends far more on attitude and preparation than sunshine and scenery.
Learning the language was the most repeated piece of advice. Orla Tierney said, “Learn Spanish and don’t get stuck in a totally expat enclave.” Sandy Corbett echoed this, adding, “Learn Spanish and join in with the locals, they will love you for trying.” For many, language is the gateway to real integration. Lisa Olesen put it simply, “Learn Spanish!!!!”
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Integration itself was another dominant theme. Steve Copeland, who has lived in Spain for 18 years, wrote, “Don’t expect the Spanish to adapt to you. Adapt to them. Learn some Spanish and integrate.” Caroline Jane Lewis added, “Integrate, speak Spanish, eat at Spanish restaurants, shop Spanish.” The message was clear. Blending into local life brings far greater rewards than remaining inside an expat bubble.
The romantic idea of Spain as a permanent holiday was firmly challenged. Stephen Chatt Milne warned, “Always keep in your mind that it is somewhere you will be living and possibly working, totally different to having a holiday here.” Ian Parker reinforced this view with, “Retirement here is not a holiday. Join in.”
Money and patience were also recurring themes. Tolo Amador advised bluntly, “Bring money, lots of it.” Lesley Davies added, “Learn to be very patient, formalities can be time consuming. Then enjoy everything.” Bureaucracy clearly tests even the most enthusiastic newcomers.
There were practical warnings too. Diane Porter urged, “Make sure you know all the legalities first. Pay for expert help.” Jim Wood advised future movers to “open a Spanish bank account, don’t sign a lease until you see the dwelling in person and have a lawyer handle the contract.”
Not all voices were encouraging. Maria Borja simply said, “Don’t do it?” while Paul Bath was even blunter with, “Don’t go.” Others stressed that Spain is not for everyone and that expectations must be realistic.
Overall, the discussion paints Spain as a country that rewards those who arrive prepared, patient and willing to adapt. As Lyn Rowe summed it up, “Integration is key. Live like the Spanish not like holiday makers. It will be so much easier and you will be so much happier too.”