The Journey to a New Horizon: Relocating My Family to Spain

Apr 6
10:58

2024

Mark Eastwood

Mark Eastwood

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Embarking on a life-changing adventure, a man and his family leave the familiar shores of England for the sun-drenched coast of Spain. This tale is not just about the allure of a new country but also about the courage to pursue a better quality of life. For those contemplating a similar leap, this story offers insights and reflections on the transformative experience of international relocation.

The Catalyst for Change

Life in Brighton,The Journey to a New Horizon: Relocating My Family to Spain Articles England, was comfortable but stagnant for my family and me. We ran a home-based business that was once thriving but had begun to decline. The motivation that once drove us was slowly dissipating. In 2001, a friend returned from Spain, raving about a place called Javea on the Costa Blanca, which he described as a paradise. His enthusiasm was infectious, and six months later, we found ourselves on an inspection trip to the region.

The Inspection Trip: A Turning Point

The trip, which cost us £149 each for flights with accommodations covered by the company, began in Moraira. While beautiful, it didn't quite captivate us. However, upon arriving in Javea, something clicked. It felt right. Despite having only 24 hours left before our return flight, we found a property that seemed meant for us. The real estate market was booming, and we didn't hesitate to secure our future home without bargaining for discounts. Little did we know, this property, initially intended as a retirement investment, would become our primary residence much sooner than anticipated.

The Influence of Media and Lifestyle

Channel Four's 'A Place In The Sun' played a significant role in our decision. The show painted an idyllic picture of life abroad, making it difficult to resist the temptation of a more relaxed lifestyle under the Spanish sun. Each visit to the Costa Blanca introduced us to expatriates who seemed transformed by their new environment, extolling the virtues of the local lifestyle, healthcare, and education systems.

A Decision Driven by Quality of Life

Our home in England felt cramped, and with a house near the sea in Spain, we began to question our choices. With our oldest daughter approaching school age, we faced a now-or-never moment. We wanted to avoid the guilt of uprooting her once she was settled in the English school system, so we made the leap.

The Reality of Relocation

Relocating to a foreign country is a monumental task. The language barrier, bureaucratic hurdles, and the initial lack of a social network can be overwhelming. I was warned that for at least six months, I would question our decision daily. This prediction rang true, and while some expatriates eventually return to their home country, others, like us, find a new place to call home.

Embracing the Experience

Despite the challenges, moving to Spain has been one of life's rich experiences. It's essential to consider which category you might fit into before making such a move. Whether you stay or return, there should be no regrets, for it is an adventure that shapes you in ways you never imagined.

This narrative is a condensed version of Mark Eastwood's full account of his family's move to Spain. For more candid and detailed insights, visit his website dedicated to the Costa Blanca Coast of Spain here.

Interesting Stats and Data:

  • According to a report by the INE (National Statistics Institute of Spain), the number of British residents in Spain was over 300,000 in 2020.
  • A survey by A Place in the Sun in 2020 found that 58% of British people considering a move abroad were looking at Spain as their top destination.
  • The same survey revealed that the quality of life, cost of living, and climate were the top three reasons for considering a move to Spain.

Sources:

  • National Statistics Institute of Spain (INE)
  • A Place in the Sun, 2020 Survey

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