Expat shares top tip to avoid ‘frustrating time’ when moving to Spain ‘They’re 2 a penny!’

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Maddie lived in Dubai for four years before she decided to relocate to Spain during the pandemic. She found a job as a teacher in the Valencia region, by Costa Blanca, and has been enjoying life there since 2020.

Maddie shared with Express.co.uk her top tips for relocating to Spain.

She explained: “Top advice, do your research to the area!

“Do you want to live on the coast or inland? Spain is BIG.

“It can take an hour to go 20 miles inland as there are many mountain roads to navigate!

“What looks commutable really isn’t,” she said.

Maddie continued: “What about the community? Expat or not? Mix? Easy link to airports?

“If you can work online really look at the cost of working from home as you’ll need a non-lucrative visa etc, which means you will need to prove a high level of savings.

“If you do get a job, this is unlikely outside real tourist areas without a) fluent Spanish and b) if you are from the UK this is doubly unlikely.”

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She explained getting a job in the Mediterranean country is difficult because of “post Brexit and all its complications”.

“I was lucky to arrive six months before this came into effect – this also meant I could sort out my driving licence relatively easily.”

Maddie said: “Tax is high and wages are approximately two thirds to half of what you would expect in the UK.

“Spain officialdom can be extremely cumbersome (and I have experience of the Middle East!) and I find things can go two ways.

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?

“Either very easy or very hard; nothing in between.”

She said Britons should be ready to have a “frustrating time” when they first move abroad but there is something they can do to avoid it: get help from a lawyer.

Maddie explained: “You have to be in the system to even get a SIM card.

“Be very prepared to have a frustrating time of it and always employ someone (lawyers are two a penny here!) to help you navigate the system,” she recommended.

Maddie shared what her first weeks in the country were like: “It can be daunting moving to a new country but I always try and plan reasonably well so things don’t jump up at me i.e. car hire sorted, a place to stay (initially got that through a contact through work).

“It was more stressful this time in 2020 as I had just relocated from Dubai and it was HARD getting out of there in one piece both with everything legal sorted and with salary due actually paid!

“I was back to the UK for only a month and then out to Spain. Then a new headship with all the pressures etc of getting to know both the workplace and the community.

“I spent the first few weeks both getting up to speed with work whilst chilling down exploring the community (helped it was hot and summer) after a really quite unusual and stressful few months of lockdown in Dubai. I bought a lot of stuff to add to the two suitcases I had brought with me,” she said.

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