Embarking on the exciting journey of relocating to Spain, we turned to the insightful community on Reddit to glean valuable advice, share experiences, and navigate the intricacies of this new chapter in your life.
Was it worth moving to Spain? Discussion on Reddit
Bill from NY says: "I've been living in Spain for a few years now, and my experience has taught me the importance of thorough planning and realistic expectations when considering a move to a new country. Early in life, I relocated to Hawaii for its weather and surf, only to find that the reality of living there didn't match my romanticized expectations. After returning to California, I visited Spain several times, gaining valuable insights into the country.
When I finally made the decision to move, I opted for a temporary stay in Granada for two months as a trial period before committing to a long-term rental. This approach allowed me to transition from the vacation mindset and gauge whether Spain was the right fit for me in the long run.
For those working remotely, I recommend arriving on a tourist visa, exploring different regions, and then selecting the city that resonates with you the most. It's crucial to allow time for your initial perceptions to evolve, as they often do. Attempting to secure a long-term visa without this exploratory phase can be challenging, especially if job sponsorship is unlikely.
In my case, having an EU (Italian) passport has facilitated my stay. I find fulfillment in my life here, but I acknowledge that successful integration involves more than just learning the language—it requires adapting to a new cultural context and managing the distance from one's home country and family.
When I finally made the decision to move, I opted for a temporary stay in Granada for two months as a trial period before committing to a long-term rental. This approach allowed me to transition from the vacation mindset and gauge whether Spain was the right fit for me in the long run.
For those working remotely, I recommend arriving on a tourist visa, exploring different regions, and then selecting the city that resonates with you the most. It's crucial to allow time for your initial perceptions to evolve, as they often do. Attempting to secure a long-term visa without this exploratory phase can be challenging, especially if job sponsorship is unlikely.
In my case, having an EU (Italian) passport has facilitated my stay. I find fulfillment in my life here, but I acknowledge that successful integration involves more than just learning the language—it requires adapting to a new cultural context and managing the distance from one's home country and family.
Moving to Spain for a year on Reddit
Jack from SF says: "Moving from the United States to Europe, particularly Spain, stands out as one of the most rewarding choices I've made. From my perspective, the quality of life in Spain surpasses that in the USA. Here, people seem to work with the purpose of enjoying life, a stark contrast to the American lifestyle where work often dominates.
The abundance of culture, steeped in history, contributes to the allure of Spain. The cuisine, the warmth of the people, the captivating architecture, and the breathtaking landscapes all add to the country's beauty. The ability to hop on a plane and explore neighboring countries like Portugal or Italy over a weekend is a delightful aspect of living here.
For me, the experience is nothing short of romantic and magical—qualities that I hadn't quite encountered in the United States. I could go on and on about the wonders of life in Spain.
If I were to express a regret, it would be not making the move sooner."
The abundance of culture, steeped in history, contributes to the allure of Spain. The cuisine, the warmth of the people, the captivating architecture, and the breathtaking landscapes all add to the country's beauty. The ability to hop on a plane and explore neighboring countries like Portugal or Italy over a weekend is a delightful aspect of living here.
For me, the experience is nothing short of romantic and magical—qualities that I hadn't quite encountered in the United States. I could go on and on about the wonders of life in Spain.
If I were to express a regret, it would be not making the move sooner."
Moving to Spain from New Zealand on Reddit
Olaf from Sidney says: "In search of terraced houses, I recommend exploring the charming seaside towns. Heading west from Malaga city makes it notably easier to discover options under 1000€. Being within 30 minutes of the city center, enjoying local nightlife, and having proximity to a train station for easy access to the airport and Malaga is feasible.
Keep in mind that towns to the east lack train services, requiring reliance on your car, but they do offer more budget-friendly choices.
Within the city, the predominant housing option is flats, a common feature in Spain, typically without a courtyard.
Alternatively, consider searching for an attic, although this might come with a higher price tag."
Keep in mind that towns to the east lack train services, requiring reliance on your car, but they do offer more budget-friendly choices.
Within the city, the predominant housing option is flats, a common feature in Spain, typically without a courtyard.
Alternatively, consider searching for an attic, although this might come with a higher price tag."
Moving to Canary Islands or mainland Spain on Reddit
Orlando from Navarra says: "As a Canarian originally from Tenerife, currently residing in Navarra for the past two years, I'd like to add my perspective. While the previous response is accurate, the average person may not need to purchase many items from the mainland. Websites like Amazon, Aliexpress, and PCComponentes usually deliver packages from the EU without customs issues. Guanxe.com, a Canarian Amazon, is also a good option to avoid potential customs delays.
The people of the Canary Islands are known for their friendliness. Engaging in group activities can be a great way to meet interesting individuals.
One challenge in Tenerife, and likely on other islands, is the reliance on a car or bike. Public transport is decent for routes between Santa Cruz and La Laguna but less reliable for travel to other areas.
When choosing where to settle, each island has its advantages and disadvantages, so choose based on your preferences. While I'm biased towards Tenerife, it's essential to explore and decide based on your preferences.
Although not directly addressed in your questions, I'd like to mention that while taking planes to visit the Canaries can be inconvenient, having the ability to take a bus to various mainland locations is a significant benefit. However, my personal experience suggests that my overall quality of life hasn't necessarily improved since moving here, and the colder climate in Northern Spain has posed some challenges."
The people of the Canary Islands are known for their friendliness. Engaging in group activities can be a great way to meet interesting individuals.
One challenge in Tenerife, and likely on other islands, is the reliance on a car or bike. Public transport is decent for routes between Santa Cruz and La Laguna but less reliable for travel to other areas.
When choosing where to settle, each island has its advantages and disadvantages, so choose based on your preferences. While I'm biased towards Tenerife, it's essential to explore and decide based on your preferences.
Although not directly addressed in your questions, I'd like to mention that while taking planes to visit the Canaries can be inconvenient, having the ability to take a bus to various mainland locations is a significant benefit. However, my personal experience suggests that my overall quality of life hasn't necessarily improved since moving here, and the colder climate in Northern Spain has posed some challenges."
Moving from Norway to Spain on Reddit
Henry from La Rioja says: "Currently residing in La Rioja and studying in Logroño, I'd like to share recommendations focusing on northern cities. Bilbao is a standout, having undergone significant positive transformations in recent years. It's now a beautiful city with much to offer. Other cities worth exploring include Vigo, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Gijón, Santander, Donostia/San Sebastián, Zaragoza, Pamplona (especially during San Fermín). I've visited these cities and found them quite enjoyable.
While Madrid is a notable destination, being the capital makes it relatively expensive. On the other hand, I would currently advise against Barcelona due to ongoing issues with tourism and political matters, making it somewhat challenging, unless you have ties to Catalonia."
While Madrid is a notable destination, being the capital makes it relatively expensive. On the other hand, I would currently advise against Barcelona due to ongoing issues with tourism and political matters, making it somewhat challenging, unless you have ties to Catalonia."
Programmer moving to Spain. Discussion on Reddit
Daniel from Madrid says: "Finding a job in Spain, particularly in the field of IT, has been quite manageable for me. With my experience and knowledge, I haven't encountered significant challenges, although it's worth noting that the employment rate might not be as favorable compared to some other countries.
When it comes to cities suitable for software programmers, Madrid and Barcelona are at the forefront, offering numerous opportunities in various IT-related fields. Valencia is also notable for hosting many technology start-ups. For those seeking relative stability and are open to a salary below the Spanish average for programmers (already below the European average), cities with offices of companies like Indra (e.g., Coruña or Gijón) or Avertis are worth exploring.
As for language, I initially did not know Spanish, but I've been committed to learning as much as possible. While many people in big cities and tourist-heavy areas speak English, the overall English proficiency in Spain is not exceptionally high. Being prepared to communicate in clear and slow English is advisable.
Most IT professionals in Spain are familiar with English, at least in terms of reading and writing. It's a valuable skill in the industry.
Regarding the salary, living independently with the average programmer's salary in a city (such as those mentioned earlier) is feasible, especially if you're not prioritizing significant savings."
When it comes to cities suitable for software programmers, Madrid and Barcelona are at the forefront, offering numerous opportunities in various IT-related fields. Valencia is also notable for hosting many technology start-ups. For those seeking relative stability and are open to a salary below the Spanish average for programmers (already below the European average), cities with offices of companies like Indra (e.g., Coruña or Gijón) or Avertis are worth exploring.
As for language, I initially did not know Spanish, but I've been committed to learning as much as possible. While many people in big cities and tourist-heavy areas speak English, the overall English proficiency in Spain is not exceptionally high. Being prepared to communicate in clear and slow English is advisable.
Most IT professionals in Spain are familiar with English, at least in terms of reading and writing. It's a valuable skill in the industry.
Regarding the salary, living independently with the average programmer's salary in a city (such as those mentioned earlier) is feasible, especially if you're not prioritizing significant savings."
Moving to Spain for girlfriend on Reddit
Bill from Barcelona says: "If you don't require sponsorship, your EU citizenship status isn't a significant concern for companies in Spain. Typically, they prioritize qualifications and skills over citizenship.
The IT sector has the lowest unemployment rate, making it a secure choice for job opportunities. If you're considering a career in IT, you're on a promising path.
On a more personal note, while this advice doesn't specifically relate to Spain, maintaining connections with family and friends from your home country is crucial. As an immigrant, I've experienced that the challenge of social isolation can sometimes be more significant than other aspects of relocation. Building new friendships locally can also greatly contribute to your overall well-being."
The IT sector has the lowest unemployment rate, making it a secure choice for job opportunities. If you're considering a career in IT, you're on a promising path.
On a more personal note, while this advice doesn't specifically relate to Spain, maintaining connections with family and friends from your home country is crucial. As an immigrant, I've experienced that the challenge of social isolation can sometimes be more significant than other aspects of relocation. Building new friendships locally can also greatly contribute to your overall well-being."
Moving to Spain vs Portugal on Reddit
John from Berlin says: "I have resided in both Lisbon and Barcelona, and if you aim to fully embrace and appreciate the local cultures, it's advisable to learn Portuguese in Portugal and Catalan in Barcelona. However, many nomads choose not to do so and manage well with English in Portugal and Spanish in Barcelona. It's worth noting that Barcelona is significantly larger and offers a more constant flow of cultural activities. Additionally, Portugal provides the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) program, offering potential tax reductions compared to Spain. While Lisbon is generally more affordable, housing costs might be an exception. Overall, both cities are fantastic choices."
