British expat in Costa del Sol says it ‘is still real Spain’ – despite British ‘enclave’

Holidays: Costa del Sol is 'arms open' for Brits says tourism chief

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British expat Mark FR Wilkins moved to Spain 20 years ago and is a consultant at ROS Abogados, a law firm based in Marbella. Mark said he’d become “ridiculously evangelical” about the whole Costa del Sol and he enjoyed talking about the area and the reality of expat life in Spain.

Mark said: “Whatever I have to say is based on my experience as a British expat.

“Brexit headaches are where they are, and we have to find ways around them.

“When I lived in London and I wanted to go to Paris in the evening, I’d get in the car and go to Paris for the evening.

“Not one single thought ever crossed my mind for the best part of 40 years that we would have to try and prove why we were going to countries and why we were seeking to establish ourselves in them.”

He continued: “My kids have grown up with this sort of wanderlust view that wherever you want to go, you just go.

“You arrive there and you find your feet. It’s not that any longer, it’s more structured.

“And I think part of the criticism, post Brexit, stems from people who perhaps never really regularised their situation where they were. When they were being challenged and had to regularise their situation because of the new rules, they weren’t prepared for it.

“They felt affronted by needing to justify why they were there.

“And the obvious thing is to hightail it back to the UK. And the impression I’m getting from people who have moved back, after a number of years here, is that the Britain they left is not the Britain they now recognise.”

For those who decided to stick it out and navigate the new rules, life as an expat on the Costa del Sol was great, said Mark.

While “there are various areas where the Brits have amassed”, Costa del sol was still “real Spain”, he said.

He explained: “I always argue that where we live is still real Spain.

“It’s not just 150 years history, it’s got roman remains and paleo Christian remains, so you have a whole history which dates back 3,000 years and it’s very present.

“So yes, it’s real Spain. But this coast and most of the other Spanish coasts have large expat communities.

“Obviously a lot of Spaniards own holiday properties in our immediate area, but since the 50s and 60s, you’ve had large influxes of Europeans, and the British came into those communities and it became very much multicultural.”

However, some areas have more Britons and “a lot of the shops are British, the bars are British, the restaurants are British”.

“This is west of Marbella, where being British is not particularly odd or different. There are a lot of Brits around, and people gravitate towards the familiar.”

For Britons who want to live as if in the UK with sunnier weather, Mark said it was quite possible.

He recalled: “There used to be a Safeway down in Gibraltar where everyone would go and get their English milk and various other products.

“And now it’s Morrisons, and people can buy their Marmite there. Iceland, which carries Waitrose products, is in four locations within 10 miles of here.

“So you know, you’ll never go without your Marmite.”

Where should you go on your next holiday?

Now that the world has opened up again it’s time to pack those suitcases and head off on a well-deserved adventure. Where should you be jetting off to? Take our quiz and find out.

Greece

With endless culture, gorgeous beaches and weather to die for, Greece is a great choice both for romantic getaways and family trips. Wander the historical streets of Athens and Thessaloniki or head to an island to soak up the sun – the choice is yours.

Japan

It may be far away but it’s definitely worth the trip. Japan has sprawling metropolises, stunning scenery, and a rich history and culture to boot. Check out the cities of Kyoto and Tokyo and make sure to get your fill of their world-famous cuisine while you’re in town

The USA

Hop across the pond and experience an array of cultures, climates, cuisines and more. You can leave the phrasebook at home and get truly immersed in everything that this sprawling nation has to offer, from the Grand Canyon to the Statue of Liberty

France

With some of the best food around and boasting the world’s most romantic city, France is a great choice if you’re in a hurry. Be in its glorious capital in just hours, grab a pain au chocolat and practice your language skills while wandering along the banks of the Seine

Italy

La dolce vita is calling! With its stunning views, fascinating history and world-famous Neapolitan pizza, Italy is a great choice, whether you’re after an adventure or want to dive into a big bowl of spaghetti

Morocco

A little off the beaten track, Morocco boasts stunning architecture, winding street markets to get lost in, and beautiful landscapes. Soak up the sun in Marrakech or head to Chefchaouen for one of the most unique experiences a holiday-maker can have

The Caribbean

Sun, sea and sand – what’s not to love? Head to the Caribbean if you really want to unwind. With plenty of picturesque locations to choose from, from the streets of Havana to the beaches of Grenada, you’re sure to find something that fits your holiday dreams.

Iceland

When most people think ‘holiday’, sunshine and relaxation comes to mind – but a different kind of trip can be just as rewarding. Splash around in the Blue Lagoon and try your luck at catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. This is definitely one for the bucket list.

India

India is well worth a visit if you have some time to spare. With an array of different cultures coexisting in this vast and vibrant nation, as well as gorgeous food to be enjoyed at every turn, you’ll find yourself immersed in the experience. Take a trip to the Taj Mahal for that jaw drop moment

Swiss Alps

If snow sports are your thing, then this mountainous region is perfect for you. Venture down the powdered slopes and warm your hands at the après-ski afterward. Perfect for a group of friends, a romantic trip, or even some time with the kids – if they can stand the cold!

What kind of holiday do you like best?

What’s your budget?

How long do you have for your trip?

Who’s going on the trip?

How are your languages skills?

What’s your ideal climate?

Which is top of your bucket list?

While familiar foodstuffs were readily available, Mark believed expats “want a bit more than that now”.

He said: “You could find yourself in an enclave and for some people, that works really well because it means you don’t have to embrace the foreign.

“It’s a bit like language, you could certainly live in a country forever and a day without speaking a word of the language. That’s quite possible and people I know have done it.

“But if you want to have an enriched existence in the country you’re living in, at least get the basics. You’ll get more out of it, even if it can be, sometimes, challenging.”

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