Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of the First Year: Adjustment Stages and Coping Strategies in Spain Moving to Spain can be an exhilarating experience, but it also involves a series of emotional stages that many expatriates encounter during their first year. Understanding these stages :honeymoon, culture shock, gradual adjustment, and eventual adaptation can prepare you for the ups and downs and...

Dogs and Cats in Spain the reality Many expats bring their dogs and cats with them when they move to Spain.  Most breeds will adapt to the hotter Summers.  You can buy cooling mats and coats if yours is struggling. Take your dogs out for walks late in the evening and make the walks much shorter when it is hot.  Just like you they get tired more easily..  Once here you may notice some differences...

Managing Expectations vs. Reality: Navigating Life in Spain   Relocating to Spain brings with it a host of expectations—some may be met with delight, while others might confront stark realities. As you consider moving to Spain, it’s crucial to prepare for the discrepancies between your expectations of this new life and the actual experiences you may encounter. Addressing these differences...

Managing Visits from Family and Friends: Strategies for Setting Boundaries and Maintaining Well-being   Moving to Spain can turn you into unexpected hosts, as family and friends may see it as an opportunity for free holidays. This situation can lead to challenges, including invasion of personal space, increased living costs, and the stress of constantly entertaining guests.   Here’s how...

Driving and parking in Spain You would think that driving would be similar all over the world but it isn’t.  You will know this if you have been to Paris or London or India.   The culture seems to impact the driving.  Spain is renowned for being hot headed and passionate in many ways and also the manana culture where nothing happens quickly.  So two sides of the same coin with little moderation...

Emotional Considerations Before Relocating to Spain   Deciding to move to a new country like Spain is a pivotal life decision that can evoke a wide range of emotions. As you contemplate relocation, it's natural to experience feelings of grief, excitement, fear, and guilt. Understanding and managing these emotions are key to preparing yourself for the transition and ensuring a smoother...

Banking in Spain Which bank do you recommend in Spain is a question that I see often on the expat forums on Facebook.  As with your home country one bank is pretty similar to the others so a lot comes down to personal preference.   There are a few things to bear in mind though and some differences in how the banking works. Co operatives Caja Rural and Cajamar are a co operative group so...

So many things are different to where you came from.  Post and parcel deliveries are one of these for anyone living outside of a large town anyway. If you live in a large town or city or are planning to do so then this article is not for you. Did you get the Terry Pratchett reference?  Hello to fellow discworld lovers if you did.  If you didn’t and like comedic books about wizards and witches...

How do you feel about your move to Spain? Making the decision to move to Spain is exciting, but it’s perfectly natural if you also feel nervous about such a significant life change. Whether you’re worried about the logistics, adapting to a new culture, or the impact on your personal relationships, these feelings are valid. Here are some practical tips to help you manage your nerves and approach your...

Buying property in Spain is likely to be very different from what you are used to.  The basics are the same, find a property you love, make an offer, get offer accepted, choose a date to complete and gate the keys, sign for the property get the keys.  However, as is often the case, the devil is in the detail. What do I need to know about buying property in Spain. You need to know that all...