Life in Spain: now!

Life in Spain: now!

A few days ago I was sent a link to one of the most hysterical articles about Spain and expats in Spain that I have seen for a long time.  Sadly, it was from one of the major UK tabloids and, equally sadly, seemed to give an impression totally at odds to what I had written a few days previously [...]

Democracy in Spain, King Juan Carlos and a ‘close call’

Democracy in Spain, King Juan Carlos and a ‘close call’

Yesterday was the 30th anniversary of the attempted right wing coup d’etat in Spain led by  Lt. Col Antonio Tejero Molina of the Guardia Civil who, on the 23rd February 1981, forcefully invaded the Spanish parliament.  Supported by some 200 armed men, Tejero tried to reverse the course of Spanish democracy which, during a perilous day, nearly returned the country [...]

Culture Spain, alive, vibrant and the best reason to come to Spain!

Culture Spain, alive, vibrant and the best reason to come to Spain!

After eight years living in Spain, I remain convinced that the best reason to come to Spain (either as a holiday maker or for permanent life) remains the intrinsic culture of Spain.  This may seem odd when most people’s focus on Spain is centred upon the wonderful weather, great beaches and cheap(er) housing than Northern Europe. In fact, the culture [...]

Las Fallas Valencia, a ‘must-see’ fiesta!

Las Fallas Valencia, a ‘must-see’ fiesta!

Las Fallas is nearly upon us – and it is one of the most extraordinary fiestas in Spain! Although the work up to Las Fallas is already starting now, the climax does not occur until the 15th – 19th of March, so you have plenty of time to book a flight to Spain and come over to see it. But [...]

Spanish Summer Sun

Spanish Summer Sun

Millions of people had their winter sun dreams ruined at the start of 2011 as a result of the civil unrest in Tunisia and then Egypt. The British Foreign Office advised against all but necessary travel to the countries’ capitals and millions of Brits were left stranded. This is going to do no favours for the two country’s future tourism [...]

Driving through the Football Stadiums of Spain

Driving through the Football Stadiums of Spain

Driving through the Football Stadiums of Spain For some, Spanish football is unbeatable. In terms of capturing the heart of the beautiful game -particularly when we speak of Barcelona – Spanish football has imagination, flair and passion which runs from fan to player, as we all saw in the recent World Cup. For true football fans, a glorious trip around [...]

Holiday Hype or Recession Blues? How to Book a Holiday on the Cheap

Holiday Hype or Recession Blues? How to Book a Holiday on the Cheap

There is no denying that the credit crunch has made an enormous impact on the travel market over the last two or three years. Many airlines and holiday booking companies have reported losses or decreased profit margins within this period of recession as many people have found themselves in precarious financial situations and have tried to restrict their personal spending. [...]

Holiday villas in Spain (Gandia)

Holiday villas in Spain (Gandia)

Holiday villa in Gandia WHY RENT IT??? Because: this holiday villa in Spain is close to Gandia, has plenty of space (inside and out), terrific views and is well situated.  It is  located on the exclusive estate of La Drova, which is 15 minutes from vibrant Gandia and 20 minutes drive from the Blue Flagged beaches of La Safor. LOCATION: [...]

Las Fallas Valencia, the most incredible fiesta in Spain!

Las Fallas Valencia, the most incredible fiesta in Spain!

Las Fallas must rank as one of the most extraordinary fiestas in Spain.  Indeed, over the past few years it has gained international recognition as one of those remarkable events that you should see – at least once in your lifetime. Certainly, the sheer scale of La Fallas is astonishing with the main festivities taking place over five days (15th [...]

Learning Spanish (how to speak Spanish like a native)

Learning Spanish (how to speak Spanish like a native)

Have you ever been to a busy pub in a city centre and heard the following conversation? Foreign tourist “Can I have a beer please?” Cynical Spanish barman “Would that be mild, bitter, lager, stout, pale ale… Would you like a pint or a half”? Hardly!  This would just not happen in Spain.  If you are in a bar there [...]

Madrid’s Cultural Attractions

Madrid’s Cultural Attractions

Madrid, capital of Spain, is located on the river Manzanares and is the political centre of Spain. Although the city possesses modern architecture and technology, it endeavours to preserve the heritage of its past and offers many cultural treats: The Royal Palace The Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Spain and is partly open to the [...]

Smoking ban in Spain, the battle continues!

Smoking ban in Spain, the battle continues!

You may have thought that because you had heard nothing new about the smoking ban in Spain – that there is nothing new.  However, this would be big mistake!  The downfall of Mubarak may have overshadowed what is happening in Spain, as far as the anti-smoking law goes, but the fight against the smoking ban in Spain continues. The first [...]

Holiday villa in Gandia

Holiday villa in Gandia

Holiday villa in Gandia WHY RENT IT??? Because: this holiday villa in Spain is close to Gandia, is in lovely condition and is very well situated.  It is located on the exclusive estate of La Drova, which is 15 minutes from vibrant Gandia and 20 minutes drive from the Blue Flagged beaches of La Safor. LOCATION: Gandia is located some [...]

Spanish property, safe to buy?

Spanish property, safe to buy?

So, Beatriz Corredor – the Spanish housing minister is appealing for British buyers to return to Spain! Gosh! And there are going to be changes to the planning laws to make buying property in Spain clearer for us poor, stupid foreigners. Gosh, gosh – I am impressed! Indeed, Beatriz is urging us Britons (according to the UK Telegraph) to: “Come [...]

Holiday villas in Spain (Gandia)

Holiday villas in Spain (Gandia)

Holiday villa in Gandia WHY RENT IT??? Because: this holiday villa in Spain is close to Gandia, is in superb condition and is very well situated.  It is actually located on the exclusive estate of La Drova, which is 15 minutes from vibrant Gandia and 20 minutes drive from the Blue Flagged beaches of La Safor. LOCATION: Gandia is located [...]