After living in Spain for over six years, I can confidently say that this beautiful country has become my home in every sense of the word. Having lived in London and Paris before relocating here, I was pleasantly surprised by the stark contrast in lifestyle, culture, and overall quality of life.

If you're considering moving to Spain, let me share with you some of the reasons why I believe this is the right place for you, based on my personal journey.

10 Reasons Why You Should Consider Moving to Spain: My Experience as an Expat

1. The Weather: Sunshine All Year Round

Depending on where you choose to live, you can expect the sun to shine around 300 days a year. This was a significant change from the grey skies I was used to in London and Paris. The climate here has had a profound impact on my daily life, encouraging me to spend more time outdoors. This lifestyle has been so inspiring that it even motivated me to run my first marathon. The endless sunny days made training a joy rather than a chore, and I felt a renewed sense of vitality.

2. The Culture of Closeness and Celebration

Spanish culture is something truly special. There’s always a reason to celebrate, whether it's the fiery Fallas in Valencia, the thrilling San Fermines in Pamplona, or Semana Santa in Sevilla. These cultural events are more than just festivals; they are opportunities for people to come together, celebrate life, and strengthen their community bonds. This sense of closeness and celebration is often lacking in other Western countries today, where life can sometimes feel isolating. I’ve attended many of these celebrations both alone and with friends, and I’ve always felt welcomed and safe, which is something I truly cherish.

3. The Outdoor Lifestyle

In Spain, life happens outside. Whether it's a hike in the mountains, a barbecue with friends, or a relaxing day at the beach, Spaniards are always willing to go out and enjoy what their beautiful country has to offer. This was a refreshing change for me, coming from cities where people often seem too busy or too stressed to make time for leisure. Even now, as a new mum, I find it easy to integrate outdoor activities into our daily lives, making every day feel like an adventure.

4. A Family-Friendly Environment

Spain is a fantastic place to raise a family. It's the only country where both men and women have the same length of parental leave, which speaks volumes about the value placed on family life here. Children grow up in an environment where they are cherished, and family bonds are strong. The support system for parents is great, making it easier to balance work and family life. As someone who recently became a mother, I can’t express enough how comforting it is to be in a place where family is so deeply valued.

5. Work-Life Balance: Life Beyond Work

Yes, you still have to work hard in Spain, but there’s a refreshing approach to work-life balance here. People are more inclined to enjoy life outside of work, with social gatherings, siestas, and time spent with family being integral parts of daily life. This is a stark contrast to other places I've lived, where life often seemed to revolve around work, leaving little time for personal fulfillment. For over six years, I’ve been working for a Spanish company, and the work environment here encourages you to enjoy your life beyond your desk, which has been a game-changer for my overall happiness.

6. The Food: A Culinary Adventure

Spanish cuisine is nothing short of amazing. Each region offers its own unique dishes, from the paella in Valencia to the tapas in Andalusia, and the pintxos in the Basque Country. The food here is not just about eating; it's about sharing, enjoying, and celebrating the richness of the country's culinary traditions. Whether you’re a foodie or just someone who enjoys a good meal, Spain has something to tantalize your taste buds. I’ve spent countless weekends exploring different regions, and every culinary experience has been a delightful discovery.

7. A Great Place to Grow Old

Spain is a great place to grow old. Unlike other parts of Europe where older people can feel isolated, in Spain, they are an integral part of society. It’s common to see elderly people out and about, walking with their grandkids or meeting friends for coffee. They seem happier, more engaged, and far less lonely than their counterparts in other countries. Watching this has given me a lot of comfort, knowing that my family and I are in a place that values all stages of life.

8. A Stunning Natural Backdrop

Spain offers an incredible backdrop for your life. From the rugged mountains of the Pyrenees to the golden beaches of Costa del Sol, and the stunning plains of La Mancha, the country is filled with natural beauty. Whether you're into hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying a picturesque view, Spain has it all. Spain also reconciled me with the idea of taking solo trips as it is a very safe place to travel and offers so many exciting options. One of the most transformative experiences for me was walking the Camino de Santiago alone. This pilgrimage allowed me to discover the breathtaking beauty of northern Spain and connect with the country on a deeper level. The sense of peace and accomplishment I felt at the end of the journey was unparalleled.

9. The Beauty of the Spanish Language

Spanish is a beautiful language to learn, and by doing so, you'll be able to communicate with over 580 million people around the world. Learning the language opens up not just Spain, but a large portion of the globe, making your expat experience even richer and more fulfilling. When I first moved here, I did not speak Spanish but as soon as I started learning Spanish, and it has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. It’s not just about language; it’s about connecting with the culture and the people on a deeper level.

10. No Need for a Holiday from Life

Since moving to Spain, I’ve found that I no longer live for my next holiday. Spain itself offers a lifestyle where you can truly relax and recharge every day. Whether it's enjoying a leisurely stroll through a historic town, sipping wine on a terrace, or exploring the natural beauty of the countryside, life here feels like a perpetual holiday. As a new mum, this has been incredibly important, allowing me to feel at ease and content without the constant need to escape.

In conclusion, moving to Spain has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The weather, the culture, the people, and the overall quality of life here are unmatched. Whether it’s running my first marathon, discovering the magic of the Camino de Santiago, or simply enjoying the daily joys of family life, Spain has offered me experiences and memories that I will cherish forever.

If you're considering a move, I wholeheartedly recommend Spain. It’s not just a place to live; it’s a place to truly enjoy life, raise a family, and build lasting memories.

📜Living in Spain Planning Guide📜

Before Moving to Spain

🔍Research the visa process, residence permits, and other essential documentation early on.
💡 Did you know it’s mandatory to have official documents translated by a sworn translator?
Consider hiring a translation service like Translyt for handling any official documents.
💡 Important: If you're moving from a non-European country, private health insurance is required for your visa application.

🧑‍⚕️ Finalize your local health insurance plan with Innoinsure for comprehensive coverage, or opt for the digital insurance services of Feather or ASSSA.
If you are a digital nomad or need travel insurance, SafetyWing provides flexible coverage for individuals living abroad.
- 🐕 If your pets have joined you, use Petplan for their health insurance and well-being.

Once in Spain

🏠 Use platforms like Spotahome *get 15% off with code: CTSPAIN15* or Flatio to find your new home in Spain. They offer verified listings and short- to long-term rental options.
- Are you on a tight budget? Check out Trusted Housesitters for free accommodation in exchange of pet sitting (Get 12% off annual memberships with code 12TRUST)
💸Money Transfers: Set up a reliable currency exchange and transfer service like XE Money Transfer to avoid high banking fees when transferring funds internationally.
💡 Can you live and work in Spain without speaking Spanish?
The answer is YES! But learning Spanish will make your life so much easier. Start learning Spanish using Preply’s language tutor to learn the basics, and expect to see massive improvements within the first few months.