Best Cities For Expats In Southern Europe part 2 – Part one is here.

Best Tourist Attractions for Expats in Southern Europe

Expats who decide to move abroad and settle in a new country usually do so because they were offered a job or an opportunity unavailable in their home country. Southern Europe, particularly the Mediterranean, is very popular with expat groups.

Some might even call it a “touristy hotspot” where tourists from all over the world flock to bask in the sun and enjoy its many treasures, such as fresh seafood and beautiful beaches. Surprisingly enough, though, there are so much more than stunning coastlines and long sandy stretches of white sand in southern Europe for expats who move to this area.

There is plenty to do and see, and traveling around the region will only make expats feel at home. In this section, we have compiled a list of the best tourist attractions for expat to visit. Without much talk, take a look at the list below and start planning your trip today.

Pompeii, Italy

Pompeii, one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe, was preserved under ash during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius since it was not fully inhabited at that time. This ancient Roman city is another must-see when in Italy.

Rome, Italy

Rome, another best tourist attraction for expats in southern Europe, is the capital of Italy and it is world-famous for its history and culture. Also known as the Eternal City, it has hundreds of monuments, museums galleries to visit. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Vatican City

Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, is an independent city-state of world-renowned where the Pope lives and works. The sheer size of Vatican City makes it one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe, was built on the slopes of Mount Tibidabo. It is a melting pot of different cultures, making it an amazing place to visit. The city has an extensive array of famous structures and landmarks throughout its metropolitan area.

Seville, Spain

Seville, another best tourist attraction for expats in southern Europe, is the capital of Andalusia. Often described as “paradise on earth” because of its mild climate and beautiful landscape, it is an excellent place to live. Several festivals take place here throughout the year, which makes it a popular destination for tourists.

Paris, France

Paris, the best tourist attraction for expats in southern Europe, is considered by many to be one of the most romantic cities in Europe and the world. It is home to some of the world’s finest cuisine and wine which makes it an important place to visit when in France.

Monaco

Monaco, one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe, is an independent city-state that borders France and shares its northern border with Italy. It is known for its famous casino, glamorous atmosphere, and historic royal family; it has also played host to major international conferences and events.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Southern Europe

What’s unique about Southern Europe?

Southern Europe is a collection of nations, which are characterized by their distinct culture, history, and language. Some of the most famous nations in Southern Europe include Italy, Spain, and Greece, among many others. There are also many less famous nations, which are still worth mentioning because they offer interesting experiences to the people who come to them.

What should I know before moving to Southern Europe?

Southern European nations are very diverse. It is, therefore, necessary to research the country one will be moving to before making any plans. Researching a country can help one understand its culture and what’s expected of them as residents or tourists.

Where is good for starting a business?

Many nations in Southern Europe provide excellent opportunities for starting up a business. For instance, Portugal is an excellent nation for starting up IT companies because it has one of the fastest internet connections in the world.

Southern European nations are also suitable for people looking to start tech companies because tech-related jobs are very popular due to how common technology is in that part of the world.

Where should I go to find a job?

Southern European nations are full of tourist attractions. It is, therefore, no surprise that there are many businesses related to tourism in the region. People looking for jobs should consider searching for employment opportunities related to their degree or skillset within the tourism sector.

How do people dress in Southern Europe?

Southern European nations have the reputation of being very fashion conscious. This means that what people wear is not dictated by societal norms but by trends and personal preferences. In fact, the latest fashion trends from around the world are commonly found in Southern Europe.

Is it safe living in Southern Europe?

Of course, safety is a key concern when living in Southern Europe. However, for the most part, it is rather safe to live in this region. This makes it a great destination for people who want to live a more peaceful life away from major conflicts and issues in other parts of the world.

Conclusion

Southern Europe is a popular tourist destination, particularly during the summer months. The warm weather, history, and culture make it a desirable place to visit for many people worldwide. For those looking to move abroad, this ultimate guide is all you need. Read again to understand the benefits of moving to this part of the world.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Spain is a country with 17 autonomous regions and many diverse cultures. It houses several states, like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Biscay. It is also home to the Prada Museum, Royal Palace, amongst other beautiful sceneries, Spain is indeed a beautiful place to behold.

Nonetheless, as an expat, you don’t know every corner of this beautiful country. Hence questions like, “which is the best place to live as an expat in Spain? Is the capital the best pick? Or are the small towns more friendly and hospitable?” then arise. In this article, however, lies your answers. Here are 10 picks to help you narrow or give you a choice, depending on your taste, where you can live as an expat in Spain.

What’s All Our Picks Share

Before starting the actual list, here is a brief list of things you should expect to find in any city you pick.

• Stunning architectural designs and several beautiful cultures.

• A splendid atmosphere. The weather is good all year round.

• The best kinds of food and wine.

• Nice and welcoming people with beautiful vibrations.

Nevertheless, five cities have these picks in even more enjoyable proportions; here are they;

Barcelona

“A great pick for expat retirees and families.”

It might come as no surprise to indigenes of Spain that Barcelona tops the list instead of Madrid. One of the reasons is that Barcelona has a sea and Madrid does not, that’s not all. The blockbuster is that Madrid has a lot to offer to foreigners.

Like New York and Chicago, there is a long, sustained rivalry between Madrid and Barcelona on which is better. However, there is a saying among the city’s residents that “Barcelona hooks,” referring to how the city enthralls and captures anyone who visits. If you stay in the city for just a few days, you will know why.

Beauty

There is one thing that draws people to Barcelona, and that is its beauty. Situated by the Mediterranean sea, Barcelona’s coastlines dazzle with several white beaches along with cozy-looking sky blue waters. A lot of restaurants abound in the city, making it easy to grab a snack or a cocktail after work quickly.

Also, Barcelona is home to several aesthetic architectural designs. The several architects that have worked in Barcelona in the last decades have created masterpieces to capture the eyes and heart of anyone who wishes to gaze at them.

Expats’ Communities

Barcelona is the second biggest city in Spain and so has garnered lots of attention. This attention has caused the inception of several expat communities that will help you as an expat. Hence, as an expat, it won’t be hard for you to fit in as there are several others like you. Plus, there are plenty of little programs and social events held to enable expats to meet locals and socialize.

More so, it has the best environment for working online and as an entrepreneur. Madrid is one of the biggest places/hubs for entrepreneurs in the whole of Europe, hence a very fertile place for startups to grow and flourish.

Plus, plenty of digital nomads settle in Madrid as their residence. To give you a glimpse of how deep they have dug, type on the Google search tab, “how many coworking spaces exist in the city?”

Work Opportunities

Just like the rest of Spain, jobs don’t come easy in these parts. As you would be at a slight disadvantage when placed side by side with locals. However, for those who know no Spanish, you can work as a teacher. There are also other English companies around. Nonetheless, for you to seem like a more viable candidate, you need to know Spanish.

Cost of Living

In Barcelona, the cost of living is a bit over the top. Barcelona is the most expensive city in Spain, though it is just barely. However, compared to other European cities like Munich and Paris, Barcelona is nowhere to be found. Eating out, rentals, and other activities are done at amped prices.

For more reasons why Barcelona is a good pick if you are a sports enthusiast, Barcelona is a place you would want to be. It is the base of sports operations in Spain. There are many sporting opportunities. There are kitesurfing, biking, hiking, and even stand-up padding.

All of these put together make it axiomatic that Barcelona is indeed one of the best places an expat would want to stay in. It has all of the best combos, and if you are ever in Spain and in search of a city to lay your bags in, Barcelona is a good choice.

Madrid

“Madrid, the city of serenity and Spain’s beautiful culture.” It is also no surprise that Madrid would come next. Madrid is the country’s capital and a beautiful city. More so, it has many beautiful parks and streets you can wander on.

Entertainment

Putting all of Madrid’s aesthetics behind it, its entertainment sector is also constantly booming. If you are keen towards concerts, theatre, and music shows, this is the place for you. Many popular displays and everblooming nighttime.

There are also several museums and art galleries. This gives its fair share of an experience or opportunity to explore the cultural background of the country.

Food

Madrid is the perfect place for food lovers as you can try out their numerous cuisines. There are several nice restaurants that the problem is which one to pick rather than which is good. Trust that the clock works differently in Madrid, and dinner isn’t the conventional 9:00, 9:30 pm. In fact, at the time, most restaurants aren’t even open. Be sure to note that.

Serenity and Transportation

Away from the city’s center, there are several quiet locations in Madrid. So for expat families moving to Madrid, there you have it. Plus, the transport system is very accessible. The neighborhoods like Chambery, Retiro, and even Salamanca, close to the city’s center, are tranquil and open to walking.

Work Opportunities

Job opportunities in Madrid aren’t exactly the best for expats as indigenous are given more preference over non-indigenes. However, if you do want to have a big advantage, learn Spanish. If you can speak Spanish, you are more likely going to be employed as English speaking jobs are rarer and difficult to come by.

Cost of Living

There is a downside to our first two picks, however, and that is the cost of living. Things are pretty expensive in Madrid and Barcelona. Simple life activities like boarding a bus or eating out are really expensive. Compared to other cities in Spain, it is a lot to put down. Nevertheless, if that scares you, you should also consider that compared to other big cities in Europe like Paris and London, these two cities are way cheaper.

Succinctly, the city is a mash of two sides. The highly energetic city and the calm and quiet city you go to for a nice stroll. A pinnacle of the cultural experience, and a site where many expats have found a home, Madrid is an attractive choice. 

Valencia

” A beautiful city, a place for solo expats.” Valencia is usually not included in the popular Barcelona vs. Madrid debate. Most people would say it is pointless. It is well known that Valencia is the best city to live in. Curious expats go-ahead to test this theory, and many of them agree.

If you still want to have a piece of the capital, but with a little less spending, Valencia is a good pick. Things and the cost of living in Valencia are a lot cheaper than you will expect.

Valencia is located on the Mediterranean coast of Spain. The city has experienced radical changes that have shot it up to becoming one of the country’s most dynamic places. The city has become a pick for several expats and digital nomads, for good reasons.

Transport

 The transport within the city works perfectly, and so does the transport from the city to other surrounding cities. Most of the places are within walking distance, and there is a great transport network. Valencia has a large underground railway system, which is still being expanded to accommodate more people.

The education and health care sector of this city also does well. Plus, the food here is really nice. The local atmosphere is welcoming and allows you to see the scenery in this city. More so, the popular Las Artes y las Ciencias is also in the city. A means to explore one’s history. In short, Valencia is a vibrant city with plenty of sunshine and a low cost of living. Compared to the two cities above, it doesn’t require much from your pockets. And you get more value from your money. Though it is slightly offbeat, it is not overpopulated by tourists. 

Valencia is close to several mountains, which means you can go hiking in summer, and when winter comes, go snowboarding and skiing.

Finally, Jobs are easy to come by in Valencia. Valencia is not convoluted and difficult; there are several opportunities open to expats to earn some cash. And if you decide to work on your own, Valencia is also a great pick for digital nomads and freelancers. Also, if you are an investor in real estate, this city has a fertile ground in that regard, which keeps expanding.

Granada

“Its size doesn’t limit how great a city it is. Situated in the south of Spain, it has mountains and lots of delightful pleasures.”

Moving towards the south of Spain, you would encounter this great city. It is located at the foot of Spain but still tops the list of great cities in Spain. When compared to the other cities on the list, Granada is the smallest. This city, however, is a famous one. The city has to its name notable places like the Alhambra, a UNESCO world heritage site. You can’t go to Spain without at least going. Exploring the cultural relics that the Arabs left behind has made GRANADA a destination for many people.

There is more to Granada than the world heritage site, however. You would find the city delightful if you are interested in hiking as there are several mountains in Granada. Plus, there are also beaches. Apparently, Granada combines the best of both worlds. It is quite obvious why this city is the pick of most people, including foreigners, and that is because of the vibration it gives out. It is cheerful and lively.

Lastly, it is pretty cheap to live in. So it is often the perfect lodging point when you decide to visit any place in the south.

Seville

“The unofficial capital of southern Spain, and there is a lot to show for it. A good pick for expats as it is aesthetically pleasing as it is welcoming.” If you are interested in exploring the traditional side of Spain, Seville should be your number one pick.

Beauty

It is as picturesque as a place can get, all of the Moorish architecture, horse-drawn carriage, riverfront. Seville, the fourth biggest city in Spain, still takes a semblance of a town. With white horses, tapas, and colorful dressing, Seville relives Spain’s history in the evenings…Seville is bright, beautiful, and welcoming.

Entertainment

If you want the regular dose of flamenco shows and traditional and nontraditional music festivals, Seville is the place to be. They have numerous of these events; you would never see enough of it.

Plus, the social environment is at its peak. There are many friendly people in the environs, and you would learn just to enjoy the moment in Seville. It promises an energetic atmosphere.

Transportation

Seville has one train station, a major airport, and other transport networks. Also, two bus depots help people in Seville get around and even go anywhere in the whole of Spain. Though Seville is the fourth biggest city in Spain, it has a small-town feel. This is what makes it such an amazing place. 

The Heat

Nonetheless, there is a downside to Seville. However, this downside is relative as some might like it and others might not. Seville is known for its high temperatures. If you aren’t a fan of heat, maybe you shouldn’t check out Seville as an expat as Seville is one of the hottest places in Europe.

Lastly, Seville might be a lot to take in for people who don’t really fancy the flashy appearance. Nonetheless, you will learn to love it. You will adapt to the several nuances of their lifestyle. As with time, you will learn to enjoy the moment and leave future planning to catch up.

Above are the best cities you, as an expat, can inhabit when you visit Spain. Moreover, you might fancy the islands more than you fancy the cities. Fortunately, we have that covered as well. Spain has a vast number of islands. And some of these islands are the most beautiful in the world. Here are the top two islands you can inhabit as an expat in Spain:

Ibiza

“Because it is an island doesn’t mean it is cut out from all of the ‘Spanish fun.”

If you like parties, you would like Ibiza. Ibiza is well known for its party lifestyle. But Ibiza is composed of much more. Several small villages adorn the northern side of this beautiful island, and people from the far side of Europe and Spain come to get back to nature. Ibiza also has several shopping opportunities. From flea markets to some top-grade boutiques, Ibiza is the perfect place to burn some cash.

Grand Canary Island

“Visit the villages of Grand Canary island; you would understand why the island is so loved.”

The canary islands are in the vast Atlantic ocean. It is off the west coast of Africa. Several airports in Spain and all over Europe serve this island. Las Palmas is a tourist town with several things for you to feast your eyes on. Things like water sports, hiking, and golf are all popular. If Las Palmas doesn’t exactly suit your taste, there are other fancy villages, with the same vegetation and climate, on the island you can inhabit.

Other popular picks;

• Minorca
• Lanzarote
• Tenerife
• La Palma
• Formentera
• Fuerteventura

Other Cool Places for Expats in Spain

Expats from different countries in the world account for about 13% of Spain’s population. Though a large chunk of this percentage is situated in the big cities, some are in other cool places. There are a few other good places you can stay in Spain. Here is a list of the good places;

Bilbao

“A coastal city for the classy. Aesthetically different, Bilbao is unique.”

Bilbao has never been the centre of the ex-pat community’s attention, but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad choice. The focus has always been on the traditional, exotic picks rather than the urban lifestyle, fortunately, things are changing.

Bilbao is on the not-so-popular northern side overlooking the Atlantic ocean. So you can boast of a good climate and nice sunshine like the Mediterranean cities of Spain. More so, Bilbao means exploring the different faces of Spain. The different culture, an example of Spain’s prided diversity.

Bilbao has started to see an increase in the numbers of its expat community. Nonetheless, this city isn’t a cheap one. Bilbao is considered to be the fifth most expensive city to live in Spain. So if you are looking for a cheap lifestyle, maybe you shouldn’t come to Bilbao. However, it is great for professionals and families. And for people who like to retire to a city lifestyle but don’t want the well-known frantic hubs like Madrid and Barcelona.

This old town has lots of bars and restaurants. Plus, the food here is amazing. Bilbao is not the biggest city in Spain, but it does have lots of big things. Bilbao has the world’s biggest cover market with lots of products out for sale. It is also home to a lot of exotic beaches. In Bilbao, there is a lot of beauty to behold and things to see.

Malaga

” It is a beautiful coastal city that has garnered lots of tourists’ attention.”

Malaga is the literal city of ports with lots of resorts and hotels. The city has garnered a lot of tourists. The amazing thing about this city is its coastline. The coastline of Malaga is large and stretches from east to west. Plus, all of the main/major resorts in Spain, Torremolinos, Marbella, Fuengirola, Benalmadena, are all located here.

The large coastline also comes with its price; Malaga is a very busy city. If you do wish to live here, you should be ready for the large inflow of tourists. Malaga also prides itself as a city with many good infrastructures, cuisines, and beautiful architecture that takes its root in Moorish and Romanian Cultures.

There are places to suit any taste you want. If you want a quiet place for your children and you, they are in their numbers.

Finally, Malaga is a cheaper city than the well-known Madrid and Barcelona. And it is not as vibrant either. However, it is a beautiful coastal city with all that is required to make a brilliant home for expats. Plus, it also has a beautiful climate.

Here are other good picks;

• Alicante
• Estepona
• Sotogrande
• Marbella
• Torrevieja
• Javea
• Cadaques

Conclusion

Spain is one of the best countries for expats. With several cities and islands accessible for a nice time and perfect accommodation. If you want to live in Spain, the above list is a good starting point for research. Pick your choice as it syncs with your pocket and taste. Moreover, it promises to give you the best time ever.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here.  

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Are you ready to explore another world around you? Living in Spain will give you endless enjoyment! In fact, you’ll be opportune to see the home stadium of FC Barcelona with a seating capacity of 99,354, having the largest stadium in Spain and Europe. Now, what is it like to live in this wonderful country?

Hmm… well, when it comes to the cost of living, Spain is one of the suitable places to live in Europe. This is because; the prices are stable compared to the average income in the country. Meanwhile, living in this country also comes with a whole set of rules. A good example is the Spanish Siesta that still exists today.

To be prepared and know what to expect in Spain, we will cover practical steps, insights on social-cultural aspects, and the pros and cons of living in Spain. To give you an idea, rent prices in the United Kingdom are higher (40 percent) than in Spain. But know that there are substantial cost differences when renting or buying in big Spanish cities versus smaller towns.

However, there are many benefits and disadvantages to living in Spain. Knowing the Spanish language is beneficial in Spain, while at the same time, not speaking Spanish could make everyday communication hard. Additionally, while there’s a low cost of living, you should know that there’s a high unemployment rate in the country.

Similarly, the great economic recession hit Spain hard in 2008. Even though the country has recovered, there has been a consistent flow of jobs, and it’s still high compared to other European countries. Moreover, expat should be aware that each region in Spain has its languages, such as Basque, Galician, and others.

Exploring Spain Pros and Cons

If you’re wondering about public holidays in Spain, worry less as we’ve compiled everything you need to know in this article. But before that, let’s quickly walk you through the benefits and few disadvantages of living in Spain. Without further ado, below are the pros and cons of relocating or living in Spain.

Low Cost of Living in Spain

In Spain, you won’t enjoy an active lifestyle based on stress. Besides, the Spanish spirit is based on enjoying life as much as possible. And you won’t be able to enjoy this standard of living if it wasn’t due to the low cost of living. Many things like housing, rentals, and everything you can think of are much cheaper than in other European countries.

Spain Health Benefits

When it comes to health benefits, Spain happens to be one of the best in the world. On the other hand, you have a free public healthcare system available for both foreigners and citizens. For people that need serious medical attention, their prices are much more affordable than in most developed nations.

Easy Visa to Spain

Another benefit of living in this country is the easiness of residence permits. Beyond that, getting a visa in Spain is really easy. For example, a golden visa is a residence permit obtained by simply investing in real estate. Also, other permits may fit your relocation.

Moreover, if you’re planning to retire in Spain, a non-lucrative visa will be ideal. All you need to do is to meet up the requirements for the permit. Meanwhile, you can get all the process done with ease if you rely on experienced immigration lawyers to help you throughout the process.

Properties in Spain

Buying properties in Spain is one of the best things you’ve ever think of. First of all, the colossal offering you’ll see in the country will get you a property regardless of your budget. And second, there are lots of houses that are available at a low price. If you want to make a quick comparison, you get more with the same facilities in Spain, compared to the UK.

Nightlife in Spain

If there’s one thing Spanish love, doing the most, it’s partying all over the night. Also, cities like Ibiza or Barcelona have become the perfect destination for tourists who want the best DJ performance. But in Spain, not everything has to do with night club as Spanish nightlife offers much more.

Food, Drinks, and Wines

Again, Spain has one of the best wines and food in the world, that’s why ecotourism is so prevalent in the country nowadays. Besides, if you travel to Spain, you cannot have a meal without a glass of wine because it’s nearly mandatory. Meanwhile, the bad thing is that after you order some, it may be pretty difficult for you to stop.

Weather and Climate in Spain

The weather and climate in Spain are the most significant reason people will find jobs in the country. This is because; the weather and climate are much kinder compared to other Northern European countries. Having said that, Spain also has a mild climate, and warm sunshine is also a blessing to Spain.

CONs of Living in Spain (2021)

While you might miss your friends and family at home, just a short flight can get you to Spain. Aside from this fact, it can be hard and expensive to constantly be flying back to your country of residence if you have grandchildren. Without further ado, below are the few cons you should know about living in Spain.

High Unemployment Rate in Spain

The high unemployment rate in Spain is becoming increasingly alarming. That way, the economic recession of 2008 is a crucial factor that led to the loss of jobs while recent graduates find it difficult to secure employment opportunities. Yet compared to other European countries, the rate of unemployment here has lowered to 13.7 percent.

Language Problem

The language barrier seems to be another con of living in Spain. More so, Spanish is the second most spoken language worldwide, and it’s one of the most popular languages to learn. Aside from that, there are lots of different dialects and accents in the country. So, you may need to understand the language well.

Other things to Consider in Spain

Weighing the pros and cons of living in Spain, many are pros, and that’s why you should explore the country and get to know the culture and traditions. Moreover, the weather in Spain can be somewhat pros or cons depending on your preference. Meanwhile, many shops close during the middle of the day, around 2 pm until 5 p.m. for most, these are the things you can adjust to if you want to live in Spain.

National Public Holidays in Spain

Aside from the ones listed above, there are other public holidays in Spain, including Christmas day celebration, day of Melilla, Ceuta day celebration, Whit Monday, and many others, to mention a few. Therefore, while you’re moving to this country, you should be aware of the national public holidays.

Interesting Facts Expat Should Know About Spain

Reading fun facts about Spain is not quite the same as visiting the country itself. This is because; there are better things to explore in the country. And the Spanish culture is definitely something you’ll want to experience. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of ten interesting facts about living in Spain. Without much talk, below are the exciting facts all expat should know.

1. Spaniards Have the Wackiest Festival

Don’t be surprised when you see Spaniards fighting with tomatoes. In fact, one in a year (every August), La Tomatina, which happens to be the world’s wackiest festival, turns the small Valencia town into the biggest food fight playground. This festival is incredibly popular all over the world, and it lasts for an hour.

According to history, the festival’s origin dated back to 1945 when a street fight broke out between a rowdy local and a group of young people. In the following year, they repeated the battle, and that led to the Tomatina festival in the country till date.

2. Spain is Known for Beaches

This is not one of the most mind-blowing facts about Spain, but I’m pretty sure you know that there are plenty of hills too. With beaches occupying most of the Iberian Peninsula and even boosting few islands, seeing beaches all around shouldn’t be a surprise. Similarly, there are eight significant mountain ranges within Spain, and they include Cordillera Cantabrica, Sierra Nevada, and many others, to mention a few.

3. Spain Has the Oldest Restaurant in the World

If you’re looking for one of the oldest restaurants in the world, Spain continues to be first. It is situated in Madrid (Sobrino de Botin) as the oldest restaurant in the world with continuous operation. Research made it known that Frenchman Jean Botin opened this restaurant in 1725 to keep serving the country with the best food.

4. Spanish Live Longer

There’s one thing you should know about the Spaniard people; they live longer. According to stats, Spain has the second-highest life expectancy of all the OECD countries at an impressive 85 years as of 2021. But the Japanese have a higher expectancy, as a result, revealed compared to the Spanish system.

5. Spain Operates a constitutional Monarchy

Following the death of the right-wing dictator of the country, General Franco, dated back in 1975, King Juan Carlos returned to the throne, and ever since then, the government has been operating a constitutional monarchy. Meanwhile, there aren’t tax inspectors in Spain as you can enjoy your life without disturbance.

6. Perfect place for Tourist

One of the world’s most popular tourist destinations is in Spain. What can you think of? Is it the historic palaces, sweeping beaches, or the world-class mountain trekking? Whatever you’re looking for that’s not in other European countries can be found here. Besides, the country welcomes a staggering 82.8 million visitors a year.

7. Traditional Surname

Traditionally, a child receives two surnames from their parents in Spain. However, all the different traditional practices found in the world contribute to the excitement of learning new things in Spain. The mother gives the surname, while the second is issued by the father to make two surnames.

Cost of Living in Spain (2021)

The average cost of living in Spain is about €900 per month as of 2021. This amount includes rent, food, drinks, and utilities for one person. Therefore, if you’re looking to relocate to this country, you’ll need to know how much everyday living cost in your new home. Also, before booking your Spain flight, it’s worth knowing if your new life will be financially buoyant.

Cost of Living in the UK vs. Spain

Of course, the cost of living in Spain depends on the kind of environment you choose. For example, living in the capital city will cost you more than other cheaper areas, and you might even live less lavish lifestyles. In the rest of this article, we will discuss living in Spain and other essential things.

In recent times, Spain has always been known for its low cost of living compared to the United Kingdom. According to Numbeo, the overall average cost of living in Spain is about 18.2 percent cheaper than in the United Kingdom. In Great Britain, the average cost of living as of today is approximately 33.19 percent.

Tax payment in Spain

Taxes in Spain are pretty on the increase compared to other European countries. For example, if you can earn up to €11,500 in the UK, you can live in the country without paying tax, whereas earners in Spain will have to pay tax on all their earnings. For example, you’ll need to pay a 19 percent tax if you’re earning up to €12,500. Similarly, if your earning increase, the percentage of tax will also increase.

Cost (Average) of Food in Spain

While the average cost of living in Spain is relatively low, it’s crucial to understand the average cost of food in the country. When you eat in a restaurant, the average price is always sporadic and doesn’t appear expensive. However, if you’ve considered the amount, you should reach up to €150+, which might not be small for new visitors. Below is a list of the food item and their average cost price.

Utilities Cost in Spain

The average cost of utilities in Spain is about €110, including water, cooling, cost of electricity, and many others. Again this might not seem like a huge cost, but when combined, they can be pretty expensive. We’ve given data analyzing the average cost of utilities below. Kindly take a look at it now.

 Cost of Buying or Renting an Apartment in Spain

The cost of buying or renting a house in Spain will contribute to one of the most significant expenses in the country. Similar to the variations in utility costs, the prices vary depending on your chosen environment. Overall, you can see a cheaper option in some cities while there are more expensive options in other places. Without further ado, let’s quickly walk you through the prices of houses in the country.

Wages/Salaries in Spain (2021)

When it comes to wages and salaries in Spain, it’s essential to know the payment plans. Moreover, it would help if you understood that the salaries are lower in Spain than in other European countries. To give you a general understanding of the salaries, we’ve provided some facts according to Numbeo.

On average, Spain salaries are lesser than the UK for about 56.04 percent. With this in mind, you should be careful when you’re planning your relocation to this country. Moreover, ensure that the lower-earning potential doesn’t put you at any disadvantage in buying whatever you want in the country.

Top Paid Jobs in Spain (2021)

If you want to live in Spain, it’s better to know the top paid jobs before planning to settle down in the country. This is because; many of the top-paying jobs in the country are the same as in the United Kingdom. In fact, an airline pilot may earn up to €120,000 as a starting wage, while professional surgeons can earn as much as €100,000 a year.

In addition, some professions are comparatively better paid than those in the United Kingdom. Considering the living cost, engineering project managers in Spain can earn up to €60,000 while working in the ICT direction can earn around €50,000. They increase their quality of life in Spain.

Different Places to Work in Spain

Unsurprisingly, the most densely populated region for expat in Spain is the southern part of the country. This is likely due to what the area provides to visitors. Aside from that, the two most densely populated places in Spain are Malaga and Alicante. Other places that are suitable for expat are; Madrid, Almeria, and Barcelona.

Cost of Education in Spain (2021)

Taxpayers in Spain can go to state schools, providing you’re registered as Spanish residents. Also, lessons are conducted in Spanish residents with their local dialects. So, if you prefer to send your children to Spanish school, you should know that the fees vary widely depending on your choice of cities.

Meanwhile, there are plenty of international schools in the country. With fees ranging from €4,000 to €8,000 per year, you can enjoy the best educational services in the country. Also, you can learn the Spanish language for around €150 to €400, depending on the intensity and the kind of language level you choose.

2021 Travel Information about Spain

Spain is a diverse country with a unique cultural heritage. Again, Spanish is the primary language, though, but there are several regional languages, including Valencian, Catalan, Galician, and Basque. With the third-highest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites globally, there are tons of incredible things to see in Spain.

Furthermore, traveling around Spain is straightforward. You can travel by car, air, or train while their currency is the euro and the population of this country is about a 50million. Now, travel information here includes the visa types and other visa-exempt countries you should know. Take a look at the classes below.

Visa Types (Updated) in Spain

There are different types of visas in Spain, depending on your nationality. Most importantly, Spain is a part of the Schengen area, meaning that they share a visa policy in common. Also, travelers can move freely between Schengen countries without going through passport controls or rules. Some of the visa types include tourist visas, work visas, and student visas.

Conclusion

Living in Spain offers life in a modern country with several cultural heritages. Rent may vary dramatically depending on where you choose, but you’ll enjoy the low cost of living. Every expat would love to live in Spain, but it would be better to read everything stated in this article to know more. Nonetheless, adjustment to their traditions may be easier than expected. So, what are you waiting for? Hurry no and start the process!