WHY SPAIN?
For many years now, Spain has been highly regarded as one of the best European countries to live in. If you combine the Mediterranean climate, wealth of culture, local traditions, glorious coastlines, quality of life, and accessibility, you can see why so many people want to live in Spain. If you are a golf enthusiast then Spain is the place for you. There is no better climate in Europe for year round golfing than the Southern part of Spain. There is an array of lush courses- approximately 20- some of which have been designed by golfing legends like Seve Ballesteros and Bernard Langer and aimed at all handicaps.
ACCESSIBILITY
Like the rest of mainland Europe, Spain can easily be reached by car, plane, train, and by sea. There is an abundance of reputable airlines which have regular flights to and from Spain. The Southern Costa Blanca and Costa Calida have two main Airports: Alicante and Murcia-San Javier. Alicante airport is currently being extended to incorporate a whole new terminal, which will definitely improve the already excellent facilities and impressive track record.
CLIMATE
In coastal provinces like Alicante, Valencia, Almeria, and Murcia people enjoy the sun, the sea and quiet beaches all year round. The Southern Costa Blanca region of Spain tends to have less rainfall than the Northern part and offers on average 300 days of sunshine per year. During the summer months the temperature averages 30̊C and during winter months 15̊C.
HEALTH
Recommended by the World Health Organisation as "near perfect environment as it is possible to obtain". It is often noted that those who suffer from asthma, arthritis, and heart related problems benefit greatly from living in Spain. A popular place to visit for many tourists is the area of Lo Pagán, Mar Menor. Here you will find the largest open air therapeutic mudbath in Europe. The natural mud that is produced here is well-known for its many minerals that help stimulate the healing process.
If you consider the weather, the Mediterranean diet, and a strong and efficient healthcare system, there really is no surprise that the average life expectancy in Spain is 78 years (men) and 84 years (women).
HOUSE PRICES
Todays house prices in Spain are very competitive compared to the rest of Europe.
Typically you can find:
A 2 bedroom apartment for under €80.000
A 3 bedroom townhouse for under €150.000
Detached villas with a private pool from €170.000
FOOD
The Mediterranean diet is well known for its health benefits. One reason for this is that most of the food consumed is fresh. A typical meal will consist of either, fish, meat, salad and fresh vegetables. A dish that Spain is famous for is Paella – a typical rice dish combined with a variety of vegetables, meats and shellfish (such as chicken, rabbit, prawns, mussels, lobster, squid and chorizo).
FOOD FACTS
Spain is the world’s largest producer of olive oil and has the largest vineyards in the world.
"Dominations of Origin", commonly used in wine labeling, is also used in Spain to guarantee the quality of ham, olive oil and even paprika.
Nearly 75% of the world's saffron is grown in Spain.
LIFESTYLE
The Spanish way of life is envied by many. Having a warm climate all year means that you can spend more time outdoors, whether it be visiting local attractions, playing a round of golf, or just relaxing on the beach, you can be certain that the sun will be shining. The Spanish know how to enjoy life and are very welcoming to share this lifestyle with everyone they meet. It is often said that if you make friends in Spain, then these friends will be your friends for life. A typical day for a Spanish worker consists of an early breakfast, 4 or 5 hours at work then a break for lunch, which is usually followed by a famous "Siesta". Depending on the job sector, a further spell of 2-3 hours is spent at work. The evening time is spent with the family, which is usually accompanied by a light meal of salads, fresh fish, and of course a glass of wine or two!
Spain……Come and see for yourself!
