We asked Juana Lopez from www.inmobiliariajavea.es her top tips for moving or travelling to Spain. This is what she told us.
Three Tips for Expats
1. Learn Spanish! The most vital tip one can give a new expat in Spain is to learn the language! Although English is a language often spoken in Spain, speaking Spanish will garner a higher level of respect for you and you will feel more relaxed when you spend time in Spain.
2. Know Spanish Culture. Keep in mind that the Spanish live a slower-paced life than you may live. Relax and spend time enjoying your food during meals. When you wait in queue, be patient and polite. Things are more relaxed in Spain so try not to be in such a hurry and enjoy the laid back lifestyle.
3. Know Spanish Customs. Do some research and make sure you know the culture a bit. Know cultural norms and laws in Spain to avoid potential issues you might experience without even knowing it. You will appear more refined and polite if you do a little research before you travel to Spain.
Three Tips for Tourists
1. Don’t Pay High Market Prices. Don’t pay any initial prices offered at markets. Unless the price is so low that you couldn’t ask for a lower one, feel free to make better deals particularly for leather items and attire. If you are considering making a purchase and you feel a price is too high, just tell the retailer and they will likely lower it for you.
2. Travel off the Beaten Path! Don’t neglect the enjoyment of bars and restaurants that might not be located in the obvious forefront of the street. Locations off the beaten path, located in areas to which tourists don’t often travel, will often offer better cuisine and drink for much better prices. If you find it hard to communicate, this will give you a chance to learn. Try to communicate, but if you have any difficulty, point to items you wish to eat or drink! It will be well worth your while.
3. Steer Clear of Tourist Areas. Don’t be afraid to explore. It’s much more interesting to check out little towns and villages that might not appear prominently on a map. You can spend the day experiencing gorgeous pueblos, scenic valleys, and amazingly gorgeous orange groves. These are the types of locations where you will want to spend an entire day.
Three Tips for Packing
1. Sunglasses. Be sure to pack some sunglasses. Spain is sunny and without them, you will spend a significant amount of time squinting during the day and spending evenings with strained eyes. Be sure to purchase an adequate pair of sunglasses that will protect your eyes against harmful UVB rays.
2. Light Fabric. Definitely pack relaxed and light fabric shorts, skirts, and dresses. You would be most comfortable wearing natural fabrics such as linen shorts, skirts, or dresses. These fabrics are airier than heavier fabrics like denim. At night, you can always change if you want to wear something less casual, but during the day, keep it light, flowing, and comfortable where attire is concerned.
3. Sandals. A must-have in Spain is comfortable, summer footwear. Be sure to pack a pair of sandals or other warm-weather footwear that you have already worn and with which you know you’ll feel cool and confident. Your feet will get hot during the day especially if you are out and about walking so you will be delighted you did!
Three Top Destinations in Spain
1. Alicante – Alicante is a small, hospitable town with a city atmosphere that can be easily traveled on foot. This scenic waterfront area is bustling with activity yet is small enough to be able to walk to all the destinations you wish to see in this waterfront town. Alicante is also a great option for property bargains, you can see prices here.
2. Barcelona – You can visit Barcelona a number of times and still discover a new site or activityeach time you visit it. You can travel around the city on bus tours, stopping during the course of these tours to get out and experience diverse landmarks. Booklets of discount vouchers are available for utilization at different destinations along the route. Thus, the cost of your ticket is well worth it!
3. Cartagena – This lovely and historic city, located south of Murcia has roots in the Roman era. Further steeped in history, it has significant links to the Spanish Civil War. In Cartagena, there are multiple historic sites to visit and other various enjoyable activities in which you can engage! Their museums are many and will offer various new learning experiences!