I mowed to Barcelona 2012 from Sweden. Never ever regret it , i love to live here. All my local friends are only spanish speaking same with my girlfriend since 10 years is only speaking Spanish. So for me its perfect as i learned the language quickly . Now i speak Spanish and + 4 other languages , keeps my brain in order !
I moved to a village in almeria spain i will not go back to uk to be treated as a 3rd class citizen in my own country, i have treated very well in spain they are friendly to us ,never seen a fight they are very family .
Hi, from Northern Ireland. I just found your channel yesterday.. Have you ever looked at Sax. Bought a house just outside the town in the Campo. We spent 12 years as a holiday home every year. The house was built in the 70s it had been loved by the previous Spanish family. We visited many other expats houses but nothing was like this house with it's cracked bathroom sink. It didn't matter in 40 degrees. Great town in a farming community.
Hi guys, great video. I'm Anne, and hubby George originally from Edinburgh. We have been living in Campello, for 8 and half years. Luckily not retired, but work pensions allowed us to live our dream. Love your videos, and know exactly what you went through on your journey, and life here in Spain. All the best for 2024, Happy Hogmany. Cheers x
Such a relief that you are not ‘giving up’. When I saw the title of the video I was anticipating hearing bad news- ie that you had decided to pack it all in and return to the dreaded UK. Spain is a fabulous country, as you rightly point out, no matter which part you make your home in, I think. My wife Marian and I moved to Santander two months ago. Because she is Spanish, we are lucky to have her friends and family here for support and a readily available sense of community, which is very important for anyone making the transition to a new life in a different country. Santander is something of a hidden gem. It ranks as one of the best small cities in Europe in terms of quality of life, low crime, health care provision etc. It is also quite beautiful, especially the bay. Experiencing the real Spain is what living here should be all about. Congratulations on your success so far and Feliz Año for 2024 X
We bought a house in inland Andalucia during the covid pandemic to beat the brexit deadline. Our plan was to spend half a year in Spain and the other in the uk but when flights the home were cancelled and we ended up in Spain for 5 months instead of 5 weeks. During that time we rescued a dog and we decided to sell up and stay in Spain. Then I found the sudden unplanned retirement and a house without a garden very challenging and it was impossible to feel settled and at home. We frequently considered moving back to the uk but stuck it out, found a lovely house with a big garden and now feel much more at home. We have kept our first house and will rent that out so that gives me something to focus on. Stick with it guys and it will work out for you.
Great video Barry and Karen, just the type of content that is sure to do well for the channel. People love personal stories. Would be great to see some more of where you're living now. So great to hear you're still living the dream.
I own a static caravan on a lovely park near to el campello next to alicante. Best move i ever made and owning a static is so much simpler than a property. Been south east spain the alicante area down to murcia and torrevieja has the best winter climate with most days in jan, feb around 16-20c!
I can relate, moved over in the middle of COVID, and processed my residency and started the dream in Valencia. I didn't feel settled so I moved to Gran Canaria. Been back in Scotland the last year gathering myself together. I move back in 30 days to give it one last try. It's very difficult moving to a new country but finding that special place is very hard.
It is difficult, we got a lot of people saying, well you’re living in Spain you must be happy! It’s not that easy though, is it? Wish you well when you come back out. We are glad we stuck it out and got through the first two years. Feeling settled and optimistic about the future here. Good luck, all the best and thanks for watching.
Hi Guys I’m a bit anxious with moving from my holiday home in villamartin to punta prima fingers crossed the apartment will be ready to move into June 🙏 . Thanks so much for sharing your experiences and covering so much on life in spain “ emotions and feelings where to settle “ prices “ “ . It seems that so many people want to move to spain from the uk “” as the uk is finished”” and I get that things aren’t the same but ( we need to be in a good head space before we go anywhere otherwise the misery is hiding in your suitcase when you arrive . And then the hurdles start . Bless you both Philip essex
Very good video guys, this was a great reflection on how moving to Spain or any country for that matter is not always easy. Glad you guys have held on to your dreams and have made these videos along the way, may they long continue. Happy New Year
Great video, thanks for the update. I have a place in Torrevieja but not lucky enough to live there - hopefully 1 day. I have always looked out for you both whilst over there but never had the pleasure to see you. Watching your video from last Christmas when you were filming celebrations in the square i was shocked to see myself standing in front of you totally oblivious!! Happy new year xx
Top people Barry & Karen and many thanks for the mention, glad you love living here and still living the dream. Always love watching your videos and look forward to loads more in 2024
Great video, we left Ireland in 2018, I'm Irish but hubby is British so we knew Brexit would destroy our plans if we didn't move quickly. We moved to Málaga first, out in the country, stayed for 6 months but we knew it was too remote for us. We've been living in Almeria for the last few years we are very lucky with our place, oranges, mandarins, lemon trees, a pool a garage conservatory ect. We need to drive to shops but that's OK. We did get offered a place in Torrevica beautiful villa in Los Balcones, not for us, we've the the mountains on our doorstep, the sea is 35 mins away. I miss Ireland still as it was my home most of my life, my hubby will never move back though. Life is healthier here, especially with sunshine ❤
That’s nice that you have settled in Spain. Having lived in Ireland myself and being from there, the weather there is very depressing, shame really when it’s so beautiful. Enjoy the sunshine!
IME experience ‘ retiring ‘ to Spain is a mistake. If you’re going to relocate, do it when you’re young. You can’t get a SIP ( spanish NHS) card until you reach UK state pension age, which is currently 65. Or you will have to budget for health insurance. This is too old. Health issues are kicking in, and there is no social care in Spain so you are reliant on friends- but they’d have to be good friends for that level of commitment.. If you are a woman, you must be able to drive in Spain, because if your partner suffers an illness you are stuck. So many properties i viewed were owned by elderly expats, desperate to get back to family. Many of these properties had been on the market for 2yrs + ( this is not unusual in Spain). I also met many who wanted to sell up but couldn’t afford a house back in the UK, because properties don’t increase in price in Spain anything like they do in the UK.
We chose to move while still working so we have the same benefits of paying into the system, e.g. we’re entitled to public health care here and a Spanish pension as well as what we are entitled to from the UK as we’ve already paid into the UK system. It can be difficult but the cost of living is cheaper and the quality of life is far better for us here. We have met a few very elderly people over the past few years who chose to go back the UK but I can’t see us making that choice. Thanks so much for watching and commenting. It gives people food for thought.
Great video...I living in Ireland for the last 19 years and my previous 8 before that,I spend 8 years living in torrevieja(1996-2004)I am from the Basque country(Bilbao city)Once again thanks a million for your videos...bring me back great memories from my years living in Torrevieja...Torrevieja we be always in my heart and is nice to come sometimes,I did aroud 5 times since I live in Ireland,last time in 2022.Hasta luego...Happy new year and look forward for more videos next year.feliz año nuevo 2024
Hi guys, we are also a family (of 4) from Scotland, seems like we are living very close to you. One of the first videos of yours I saw you briefly filmed the flags on my balcony, which blew me away because I'd only put them there a day or 2 earlier. Anyway great videos guys, hopefully our paths will cross at some point.
Enjoyed latest video. I too lived in Playa Flamenca for 3 years, but moved back to UK in 2009 after the recession. Your videos have kept me up to date since you have been out there, and I thank you for that. Maybe see you on my next annual trip out!
Hi guys, i really enjoyed/appreciated this posting. It was always a dream( ?) Of mine to live out my days in Spain, but life has a nasty way of getting in the way of our dreams 😕. I congratulate you both on chasing your dreams and making them happen. Moving/relocating to Spain is more than an extension of 2 weeks in Benidorm etc, as you say many folks dont realise that. It does take commitment and determination and the ability to be self sufficient in body and mind, which you are doing and you'll eventually be able to name your home 'Dunromin'. Thank you both for sharing your journey with us. Cheers DougT in Mancs.
Happy Hogmanay to you both. Glad to hear you’ve stuck it out. We’re applying for our NLVs early next year so we can get out 💯 to our apartment in Quesada
Listening to you both reminds me of my own restless 55+ year old self. I hate living in Cold Canada but I know that leaving my job's steady income will never be replaced in Spain. Also, I'm looking at prices of homes now in Spain and they are starting to go up. Yikes!!
Another great and very candid video. Living part time in Punta Prima is great for us , close enough to Torrevieja to walk in but we choose not to get into the commercial centre lifestyle. Fresh produce and healthier eating is our goal as is maximising our post Brexit 90 days particularly when the weather is dreich back in Scotland, as it is today. We bought a car to explore further afield in 2024 as you mentioned it is more than the coast but we do like the seaside towns. If only we can master the language, two years in we are shite. For us your videos have been fantastic, an invaluable accelerated intoduction to the area and I hope you get to 10K subscribers soon. Happy Hogmanay and New Year , we have just escaped the mayhem of the toon having been at the ice hockey at Murrayfield
You mentioned missing the sea……. My forever memories are driving to work from Torrevieja to Cabo roig with the sun shining on the Mediterranean. Unfortunately I’m back in the UK at the moment, but always get to the south coast on a sunny weekend (the closest I can get to that med feeling). I’ll be back to Spain hopefully in the next few years. Have a good one.
My problem as well, the smaller towns here are not as "quaint" as I would like them to be. Andalusia has nice whitewashed villages but the drought seems to be getting worse each year.
Congratulations you guys are so inspirational and cover so many things the video of your dogs health and the vets was very reassuring as we're dog lovers keep the videos coming all the best for new year 🎉🎉🎉
Great content Barry & Karen on your insight of your last 3 years We have holiday home in Algorfa so breksit killed it for lots of people to stay permanently.
Hi guys 👋🏼, not sure how your video ended up in my feed, glad it did, thoroughly enjoyed your chat & banter, thanks for sharing ! Take care, cheers, Victor 😊
Great video guys, I take early retirement in April i'll be 58 and we start our NLV application. We have the ferry booked for 23rd August so all being well we will start to live our dream at our apartment in Punta Prima that weve had for 21 years🙏
I remember you back then in your van, heading to Spain, I came out here over a year ago, I had a disastrous start , went to Estepona, I've rebooted and now in Torreivieja, so far I like cabo roig area, getting a rental has been challenging, If I can't get one here I'm afraid I'm going to have to return to the UK, It isn't easy.
Bravo, my Lanark Lassie and I miss Spain. We were coming back to the states when you were arriving. Right now it's 50/50 if we move back because of family concerns. Love the videos! Happy New Year 🥳
Just found you after hearing about Karen’s health so now watching from beginning. I’m from Edinburgh. One observation is try not to all ov each other but I know it’s difficult. Love you both!
Glad we did it all in our 20ties in Italy (more or less same in Spain). No illusions left. Now living in Finland and 4 winter months on Tenerife. Happy days.
All is well summed up by you two. I find this channel useful not only for seeing different places of Spain also for meeting your lifestyle based on exploration that inspires me. I wish u a great year of 2024 that will bring more excitement, joy and subscribers.
Great videos guys thank you. It's always nice to hear other people's journeys. I could hear the Cockerell in the background 😉 I love that 👌. We have been here 6 years now in Benimar ,we have a great mountain view and the chickens roam free round the street 😅 it's great!!! Always makes me smile. We have Benijofar old town to one side and Rojales to the other and formentera 10min walk. Only concern I have is that 'place in the sun' needs to buzz off. Far too many houses being built and little Benijofar is slowly dissappearing and it's losing that small Spanish town charm we all look for.... When you find your perfect piece of heaven 🤫 keep it under your hat 🧢🪭 Wishing you both a very happy new year 🥂🍇 and all the best for 2024 🎉🎉
Great video guys. So pleased for youz. Your evolution mirrors our Spanish experience.....Also from Scotland, Beating brexit, covid lockdown, owning a dog and moving house. We're about to move again, to the 'semi campo' near Valverde... just up the coast. We also have no regrets and love our lives in Spain. Happy New Year and best wishes for the future ❤ Alasdair & Selina Bruce
Came over to Torrevieja in 1986 and everywhere has changed so much it is unbelievable Hardly anything around and our urbanisation St Luis was originally an artichoke field! Only left in 2021 when unfortunately my husband died of COVID in 2020 so sold up the place was far too big for me to cope with If you want to watch live football in your area Torre have a team also Elche were in La Liga at one stage and are well worth a look How you think Playa Flemenca is quiet is beyond me it rocks during the summer!!!
Same situation as you. Just before Brexit and I work remotely at home but I'm totally settled in punta prima. It's not far from torrevieja, Paddy's point (what a result yesterday 🎉), great beaches, boulevard, a world renowned hospital,, the airport, FOUR cities (Elche Alicante Cartagena Murcia), lakes etc etc. I think it's almost perfect here and the weather is the cherry. I will NEVER return to Scotland unless I was really pushed and lost everything. Could never go back to that climate. Would be a huge step back... There's better places in Spain than this area no doubt but it's for what you get it's very affordable and all that on your doorstep. Compared to the UK, it's an absolute paradise. Good luck with the other channel too. HH
Hi, could share more details about your job - do you work for a UK company and are you autónomo or actually employed? How did you find the job? I have just acquired Spanish citizenship as I used to live there safe want to move back in the next 2 years but I need a job I can do out there.
Great video look forward to you're restaurant, food,tapas videos so that we will know what villages and restaurants to visit. We can see some of the villages (Jacarrila and Bigastro) from our terrace in Torrevieja but we have only driven through the others you mentioned on trips to Murcia. We will soon be driving over with our dog for our sixth 90 day visit since we retired .The first two 90 day visits we we're going to get our NLV but somehow decided not to and just keep doing the 90 days !! We are both finding it harder driving back and forth every 90 days having used every route possible even Glasgow ,Belfast , Rosslare, Bilbao ,Torrevieja and back again things you do for dogs.Hope your move to the village works out for yous and I don't need to sit in Chinatown like a mad stalker looking for yous to appear 😂😂 thanks again for the videos
Sean expat in mazarron has helped us a lot watching his vids before moving and living here , now 5 years , also love watching your journey , feliz ano Nuevo
My daughter and grandchildren are just home to Scotland after living and working in orihuela for 8 years she had a wee business that covid killed and was struggling to keep up with the lifestyle they are camped out in my living room and spare room thankfully she managed to get a good job at home 🏠
Oh no that’s a real shame. It happened to so many people. I’m really glad she’s got a job back home. All the best, and I hope everything works out well. ~ Karen x
I think these "real talk" videos are very helpful and encouraging! Ofc moving to a new country isn't going to be plain sailing all the way, but it's good to know that it's worth it despite the setbacks. I've just made the move and it feels like I'm learning all the ropes all over again. All the best for 2024!
Maybe they should consider other areas of Spain, the Cantabrian in the north? The cities or towns in the interior of the country? In the autonomous community of La Rioja or Navarra the quality of life and tranquility are very high, as is the great unknown of the interior of Spain, Extremadura. Or Asturias and Galicia, where you will see more bagpipes than Edinburgh :), Spain is twice as large as the UK, you can only assess the ideal area by visiting the north-central-south,(you have an idea of east in this 3 years) going from whitewashed villages to stone houses with slate roofs. Not having a beach but a lake or swamp? forests, plains or mountains? Difficult assessment....
I find your story interesting moving from Scotland to Spain I did a similar journey moving to Gdynia Poland 7:5 years ago with my Polish wife after living and working in London for 20 years I took early retirement aged 62 after 47 years full time employment Cashed in my Personal Pension and invested in 2 properties here in Poland all prior to Brexit we sold our main property 18month ago and made a substantial profit which we rolled into a larger house with a garden for our 3 dogs : I can relate in so many ways to your experience: Not speaking Polish Eating out in restaurants regularly and using a local bar to watch football Due to being sick with Covid for 15 months My life totally changed and now no longer drink alcohol and only occasionally go out to restaurants: For me personally I could not have the financial independence I enjoy here had we moved to Scotland which we considered on a few occasions: Wishing you both a happy and prosperous 2024 ❤
We watched your Christmas Day video and realised you walked near to us. We were disappointed not to have actually seen you. Been following you guys for 2years and watched all your videos.
Hi just like to say good luck for the future, I moved over to the north of Spain in 1974 ,a place called Zumaya,coming from Glasgow,I fell in love with Zumaya, then I sold up to move down to Los Balcones Torrevieja ,the biggest mistake I made ,the people down there were only interested in the peseta,in the nineties 1992 i,moved back to Scotland , it’s amazing how ,when the men move over there,they seem to die within 2yrs , any guys enjoy your life over there❤
Happy Hogmany to you both, we only met briefly when I was grinding outside O'Connor 's you are a lovely couple and I love the videos. Thanks Barry and Karen 🎉
A lot of people in the States had a big problem with COVID and work I mean people I'm talking about in their 40s and it just was government overreach in my opinion keeping kids home for that long as well 😵💫😵💫🙃
Nice post guys. We know 7 couples now who have come back over the years. Not all as couples either. It was ok when they were in their 50s but illness, death,alcohol abuse and divorce kicked in in their 70s Trouble is they are all now broke and renting as they can't afford to buy back into the housing market. I think an escape fund might be worth thinking about, especially as they tell us they know lots of ex pats who can"t afford to leave At least you guys haven't slagged off the uk. They all did which I didn't like. Been to Spain several times recently in summer. Unbelievably hot. 42c How do you feel about this?
Happy new year to you both, l have lived in spain 7 years now the most important thing is location and type of property I bought a villa when I first came over l stuck it 3 years then moved into a spanish town everything is on my doorstep all my neighbours are spanish and very friendly The cost of living here allows me to live a very comfortable lifestyle, I'm 20 mins from vera so not far to the beach Ive just come back from the uk it rained everyday all the time I was there I have no intention of going back to the uk Keep up posting your videos as I look forward to watching them
Think that was a good point that maybe some people came to beat the Brexit transition period rather than thinking it through just to get residency much more easily than it now is post Brexit with the financial eligibility criteria. It is a challenge deciding where to settle when you don't have any natural links to places. Maybe the best plan is no plan! If you can work remotely then rather than buy like you say you are free to move anywhere that has good internet and experience all the wonders of Spain. All best wishes!
fair play to you both , took the risk and hopefully get the reward you both deserve . we are looking at la zenia in the not too distant future . out there a few more times in 2024 , the only thing is the work side of things .keep up the good work with the videos very informative content .
Hi there, Thanks for all the video’s! We did enjoy them very much. Last december we bought our home in Aguas Nuevas, Torrevieja. Just a year of fun in the surroundings and the city of Torrevieja. We are looking for some opportunities to live (and work) here. Until then, we travel between our homes and will be here every month. We ❤ Spain! When we see you, we will say hi 😊 Happy new year for both of you!
Hi , it was in one of the tabloids I quickly look through. Either the mail or the sun. I said to my partner about you being on there. They showed a picture of you with an article and mentioned your channel. I’ve just tried to find it .
Great video, nice to hear a bit of your back story .The good thing is your living your dream ,you know the old saying you're a long time dead. I had the opportunity of walking across the North of Spain when I retired. A Glasgow man with no Spanish miming my way across Spain for 4 weeks, sometimes we just have to go for it. Thanks for all the video s .All the best for 2024. Long may your road run.
Good honest video, Spain 🇪🇸 is not a Bed of Roses as some might think, Sun is wonderful and we all enjoy it but come July August time it nearly impossible to get about. I am heading over January 2nd for 8 - 10 weeks to see what it like, have experience Torrevieja in Holiday mode but living in Torrevieja is another subject, so I will give it a go, I currently live in Rural Wexford a lovely area, but October -March a graveyard, and i don't like driving late at night, So will .pick up a bit of work just to get of Apartment, I have a Irish Pension i have contact out there, But living permanently in Torrevieja still needs a lot of consideration. Health care is my main concern access to it and communication issues , Any tips greatly appreciated Keep making videos
Very good explaining the high's and low's of living in Spain, but I think ye will be back in Scotland this time next Year, I tried 6 Weeks in our apartment to see how would my wife and I would get on the last Week was hell, missing the grand children friends and here in Ireland the weather is horrible but it's home........Happy New Year to your both
We’re in our 4th year here now… trust me, we won’t go back unless something extremely drastic happened. Very happy with life here and plan on retiring here as well.
Hopefully ye will be happy there in paradise and that my comment is wrong, ye were right not to buy until your sure that ye made the right decision, We bought an Apartment near Villamartin in 1999 love it but it failed us to live there we go for a Month 3 times a Year but have no regrets would love to meet you for a cuppa the next time we are over I am 71 my wife is 74……all the best from West Cork in Ireland
I found your video really interesting as I do come out to playa flamenca twice a year but I don't drive there. I think it's a great idea you'll be telling us about the small villages that we can visit and also if any transport.
another good video guys, thanks. I am renting before I buy there, dealing with rental scammer ads could be a good vlog for you guys, have a great 2024!!
Hi Karen.What kind of work do you do that you can work from home? I would be interested to know as looking to move to spain and wondered what opportunities are for women.thanks really enjoy your perspective and the channel.
You guys are fantastic. I love watching your videos , We are hoping to move to spain ourselves, so watching your videos is an eye-opener for us. I'd like to be on the Costa blanca side, too . So, just a quick question for you barry ? How did you manage or cope with driving on the left side of the road? And how long did it take for you to get used to it. Happy New year to you both 🍾🥂🥳🎉 X x
I'm half of an Irish couple who live in La Siesta and have been following you since before me moved to Spain. Would love to attend your 10K subscriber night. 😅 how do we get in on that? I find you both very interesting and relatable.
👍Help the channel; - scottishcoupleinspain.com/PayWhatYouLike
I mowed to Barcelona 2012 from Sweden. Never ever regret it , i love to live here. All my local friends are only spanish speaking same with my girlfriend since 10 years is only speaking Spanish. So for me its perfect as i learned the language quickly . Now i speak Spanish and + 4 other languages , keeps my brain in order !
I moved to a village in almeria spain i will not go back to uk to be treated as a 3rd class citizen in my own country, i have treated very well in spain they are friendly to us ,never seen a fight they are very family .
Why do you think you'd be treated as 3rd class citizens?
Because WE ARE treated like 3rd class citizens in our own country
@@user-un3wp2kg5f Any examples?
My home is in the UK & i wud not give it up...the UK is amazing.
Because I am english and white
Hi, from Northern Ireland. I just found your channel yesterday.. Have you ever looked at Sax. Bought a house just outside the town in the Campo. We spent 12 years as a holiday home every year. The house was built in the 70s it had been loved by the previous Spanish family. We visited many other expats houses but nothing was like this house with it's cracked bathroom sink. It didn't matter in 40 degrees. Great town in a farming community.
You two are absolute gems! You are living the dream my wife and I are working towards. Thank you both!
Thank you!! Thanks for watching.
Hi guys, great video.
I'm Anne, and hubby George originally from Edinburgh.
We have been living in Campello, for 8 and half years. Luckily not retired, but work pensions allowed us to live our dream.
Love your videos, and know exactly what you went through on your journey, and life here in Spain.
All the best for 2024, Happy Hogmany.
Cheers x
Such a relief that you are not ‘giving up’. When I saw the title of the video I was anticipating hearing bad news- ie that you had decided to pack it all in and return to the dreaded UK.
Spain is a fabulous country, as you rightly point out, no matter which part you make your home in, I think.
My wife Marian and I moved to Santander two months ago. Because she is Spanish, we are lucky to have her friends and family here for support and a readily available sense of community, which is very important for anyone making the transition to a new life in a different country.
Santander is something of a hidden gem. It ranks as one of the best small cities in Europe in terms of quality of life, low crime, health care provision etc. It is also quite beautiful, especially the bay.
Experiencing the real Spain is what living here should be all about.
Congratulations on your success so far and Feliz Año for 2024 X
We bought a house in inland Andalucia during the covid pandemic to beat the brexit deadline. Our plan was to spend half a year in Spain and the other in the uk but when flights the home were cancelled and we ended up in Spain for 5 months instead of 5 weeks. During that time we rescued a dog and we decided to sell up and stay in Spain. Then I found the sudden unplanned retirement and a house without a garden very challenging and it was impossible to feel settled and at home. We frequently considered moving back to the uk but stuck it out, found a lovely house with a big garden and now feel much more at home. We have kept our first house and will rent that out so that gives me something to focus on. Stick with it guys and it will work out for you.
Great video Barry and Karen, just the type of content that is sure to do well for the channel. People love personal stories. Would be great to see some more of where you're living now. So great to hear you're still living the dream.
I own a static caravan on a lovely park near to el campello next to alicante. Best move i ever made and owning a static is so much simpler than a property. Been south east spain the alicante area down to murcia and torrevieja has the best winter climate with most days in jan, feb around 16-20c!
Great Idea. I m on my own and don't have a large budget
Bon Sol ?
the most important thing i took from your Vid was you both totally Love each other.
God Bless
🥰🥰🥰
I can relate, moved over in the middle of COVID, and processed my residency and started the dream in Valencia. I didn't feel settled so I moved to Gran Canaria. Been back in Scotland the last year gathering myself together. I move back in 30 days to give it one last try. It's very difficult moving to a new country but finding that special place is very hard.
It is difficult, we got a lot of people saying, well you’re living in Spain you must be happy! It’s not that easy though, is it? Wish you well when you come back out. We are glad we stuck it out and got through the first two years. Feeling settled and optimistic about the future here. Good luck, all the best and thanks for watching.
What was hard about Valencia? We are considering it for a move from San Francisco, USA to Spain.
Great that you didn’t panick the first two years and now starting to realise your dream 👌
Hi Guys I’m a bit anxious with moving from my holiday home in villamartin to punta prima fingers crossed the apartment will be ready to move into June 🙏 . Thanks so much for sharing your experiences and covering so much on life in spain “ emotions and feelings where to settle “ prices “ “ . It seems that so many people want to move to spain from the uk “” as the uk is finished”” and I get that things aren’t the same but ( we need to be in a good head space before we go anywhere otherwise the misery is hiding in your suitcase when you arrive . And then the hurdles start . Bless you both Philip essex
Very good video guys, this was a great reflection on how moving to Spain or any country for that matter is not always easy. Glad you guys have held on to your dreams and have made these videos along the way, may they long continue.
Happy New Year
Great video, thanks for the update. I have a place in Torrevieja but not lucky enough to live there - hopefully 1 day. I have always looked out for you both whilst over there but never had the pleasure to see you. Watching your video from last Christmas when you were filming celebrations in the square i was shocked to see myself standing in front of you totally oblivious!! Happy new year xx
I own a place there too but now live in Ibiza. ❤
Top people Barry & Karen and many thanks for the mention, glad you love living here and still living the dream. Always love watching your videos and look forward to loads more in 2024
Top man😊
Our pleasure, mate. We hope you are good.
Great video, we left Ireland in 2018, I'm Irish but hubby is British so we knew Brexit would destroy our plans if we didn't move quickly. We moved to Málaga first, out in the country, stayed for 6 months but we knew it was too remote for us. We've been living in Almeria for the last few years we are very lucky with our place, oranges, mandarins, lemon trees, a pool a garage conservatory ect. We need to drive to shops but that's OK. We did get offered a place in Torrevica beautiful villa in Los Balcones, not for us, we've the the mountains on our doorstep, the sea is 35 mins away. I miss Ireland still as it was my home most of my life, my hubby will never move back though. Life is healthier here, especially with sunshine ❤
That’s nice that you have settled in Spain.
Having lived in Ireland myself and being from there, the weather there is very depressing, shame really when it’s so beautiful.
Enjoy the sunshine!
IME experience ‘ retiring ‘ to Spain is a mistake. If you’re going to relocate, do it when you’re young. You can’t get a SIP ( spanish NHS) card until you reach UK state pension age, which is currently 65. Or you will have to budget for health insurance. This is too old. Health issues are kicking in, and there is no social care in Spain so you are reliant on friends- but they’d have to be good friends for that level of commitment.. If you are a woman, you must be able to drive in Spain, because if your partner suffers an illness you are stuck. So many properties i viewed were owned by elderly expats, desperate to get back to family. Many of these properties had been on the market for 2yrs + ( this is not unusual in Spain). I also met many who wanted to sell up but couldn’t afford a house back in the UK, because properties don’t increase in price in Spain anything like they do in the UK.
We chose to move while still working so we have the same benefits of paying into the system, e.g. we’re entitled to public health care here and a Spanish pension as well as what we are entitled to from the UK as we’ve already paid into the UK system. It can be difficult but the cost of living is cheaper and the quality of life is far better for us here. We have met a few very elderly people over the past few years who chose to go back the UK but I can’t see us making that choice. Thanks so much for watching and commenting. It gives people food for thought.
The UK state pension age is now 67, not 65, no??
@@thelight1385 depends on DOB. Phased increase for women.
Great video...I living in Ireland for the last 19 years and my previous 8 before that,I spend 8 years living in torrevieja(1996-2004)I am from the Basque country(Bilbao city)Once again thanks a million for your videos...bring me back great memories from my years living in Torrevieja...Torrevieja we be always in my heart and is nice to come sometimes,I did aroud 5 times since I live in Ireland,last time in 2022.Hasta luego...Happy new year and look forward for more videos next year.feliz año nuevo 2024
Hi guys, we are also a family (of 4) from Scotland, seems like we are living very close to you. One of the first videos of yours I saw you briefly filmed the flags on my balcony, which blew me away because I'd only put them there a day or 2 earlier.
Anyway great videos guys, hopefully our paths will cross at some point.
Enjoyed latest video. I too lived in Playa Flamenca for 3 years, but moved back to UK in 2009 after the recession. Your videos have kept me up to date since you have been out there, and I thank you for that. Maybe see you on my next annual trip out!
Happy new year ! We plan on a Spanish adventure in two years . I have followed your journey and look forward to hearing more of your new lifestyle.
Hi guys, i really enjoyed/appreciated this posting. It was always a dream(
?) Of mine to live out my days in Spain, but life has a nasty way of getting in the way of our dreams 😕. I congratulate you both on chasing your dreams and making them happen. Moving/relocating to Spain is more than an extension of 2 weeks in Benidorm etc, as you say many folks dont realise that. It does take commitment and determination and the ability to be self sufficient in body and mind, which you are doing and you'll eventually be able to name your home 'Dunromin'. Thank you both for sharing your journey with us. Cheers DougT in Mancs.
Happy Hogmanay to you both. Glad to hear you’ve stuck it out.
We’re applying for our NLVs early next year so we can get out 💯 to our apartment in Quesada
Good luck still thinking.😊
Listening to you both reminds me of my own restless 55+ year old self. I hate living in Cold Canada but I know that leaving my job's steady income will never be replaced in Spain. Also, I'm looking at prices of homes now in Spain and they are starting to go up. Yikes!!
Loved your vlog, glad I found your channel. You seem such an honest couple. Greeting from Australia and have a great day.
Thank you! You too!
Another great and very candid video. Living part time in Punta Prima is great for us , close enough to Torrevieja to walk in but we choose not to get into the commercial centre lifestyle. Fresh produce and healthier eating is our goal as is maximising our post Brexit 90 days particularly when the weather is dreich back in Scotland, as it is today. We bought a car to explore further afield in 2024 as you mentioned it is more than the coast but we do like the seaside towns. If only we can master the language, two years in we are shite. For us your videos have been fantastic, an invaluable accelerated intoduction to the area and I hope you get to 10K subscribers soon. Happy Hogmanay and New Year , we have just escaped the mayhem of the toon having been at the ice hockey at Murrayfield
Thanks for the update. Happy new year!
Thank you for sharing your experience. Hope to make the move myself in the near future.
You mentioned missing the sea……. My forever memories are driving to work from Torrevieja to Cabo roig with the sun shining on the Mediterranean. Unfortunately I’m back in the UK at the moment, but always get to the south coast on a sunny weekend (the closest I can get to that med feeling). I’ll be back to Spain hopefully in the next few years. Have a good one.
My problem as well, the smaller towns here are not as "quaint" as I would like them to be. Andalusia has nice whitewashed villages but the drought seems to be getting worse each year.
Congratulations been with you from the beginning ... keep up the great videos .. really enjoy them 🎉🎉
25k subs by end of the year. Defo within reach! Get after it guys! Happy New year!
Happy New Year to you! Thanks for watching! 🥳
Congratulations you guys are so inspirational and cover so many things the video of your dogs health and the vets was very reassuring as we're dog lovers keep the videos coming all the best for new year 🎉🎉🎉
Great content Barry & Karen on your insight of your last 3 years
We have holiday home in Algorfa so breksit killed it for lots of people to stay permanently.
Hi guys 👋🏼, not sure how your video ended up in my feed, glad it did, thoroughly enjoyed your chat & banter, thanks for sharing ! Take care, cheers, Victor 😊
Hi & welcome! Thanks for watching!
Great video guys, I take early retirement in April i'll be 58 and we start our NLV application. We have the ferry booked for 23rd August so all being well we will start to live our dream at our apartment in Punta Prima that weve had for 21 years🙏
Happy nieuw year 🎉 nice vedio whiche villge you live now😊
I remember you back then in your van, heading to Spain, I came out here over a year ago, I had a disastrous start , went to Estepona, I've rebooted and now in Torreivieja, so far I like cabo roig area, getting a rental has been challenging, If I can't get one here I'm afraid I'm going to have to return to the UK, It isn't easy.
Bravo, my Lanark Lassie and I miss Spain. We were coming back to the states when you were arriving. Right now it's 50/50 if we move back because of family concerns. Love the videos! Happy New Year 🥳
Just found you after hearing about Karen’s health so now watching from beginning. I’m from Edinburgh. One observation is try not to all ov each other but I know it’s difficult. Love you both!
I enjoyed this, thanks for posting.
Happy new year guys, really good video. Onwards and upwards.
Glad we did it all in our 20ties in Italy (more or less same in Spain). No illusions left. Now living in Finland and 4 winter months on Tenerife. Happy days.
I live in Hondon del los Frailies for a couple of years, great place to live.
Just came across your video channel a couple of days ago really liking your videos guys keep them coming ❤️
All is well summed up by you two. I find this channel useful not only for seeing different places of Spain also for meeting your lifestyle based on exploration that inspires me. I wish u a great year of 2024 that will bring more excitement, joy and subscribers.
Thank you! ☺️ all the best to you and yours!
Great videos guys thank you. It's always nice to hear other people's journeys. I could hear the Cockerell in the background 😉 I love that 👌. We have been here 6 years now in Benimar ,we have a great mountain view and the chickens roam free round the street 😅 it's great!!! Always makes me smile. We have Benijofar old town to one side and Rojales to the other and formentera 10min walk. Only concern I have is that 'place in the sun' needs to buzz off. Far too many houses being built and little Benijofar is slowly dissappearing and it's losing that small Spanish town charm we all look for.... When you find your perfect piece of heaven 🤫 keep it under your hat 🧢🪭
Wishing you both a very happy new year 🥂🍇 and all the best for 2024 🎉🎉
Have a great new year guys and keep the videos coming. Just starting my visa journey. Hoping this is my last winter in Scotland. X
Brilliant! All the best! Thanks for watching x
Great video guys. So pleased for youz. Your evolution mirrors our Spanish experience.....Also from Scotland, Beating brexit, covid lockdown, owning a dog and moving house. We're about to move again, to the 'semi campo' near Valverde... just up the coast.
We also have no regrets and love our lives in Spain.
Happy New Year and best wishes for the future ❤
Alasdair & Selina Bruce
Well done Guys . Keep up the good fight. ❤ . Paul Dublin Ireland
Came over to Torrevieja in 1986 and everywhere has changed so much it is unbelievable
Hardly anything around and our urbanisation St Luis was originally an artichoke field!
Only left in 2021 when unfortunately my husband died of COVID in 2020 so sold up the place was far too big for me to cope with
If you want to watch live football in your area Torre have a team also Elche were in La Liga at one stage and are well worth a look
How you think Playa Flemenca is quiet is beyond me it rocks during the summer!!!
Same situation as you. Just before Brexit and I work remotely at home but I'm totally settled in punta prima. It's not far from torrevieja, Paddy's point (what a result yesterday 🎉), great beaches, boulevard, a world renowned hospital,, the airport, FOUR cities (Elche Alicante Cartagena Murcia), lakes etc etc. I think it's almost perfect here and the weather is the cherry.
I will NEVER return to Scotland unless I was really pushed and lost everything. Could never go back to that climate. Would be a huge step back...
There's better places in Spain than this area no doubt but it's for what you get it's very affordable and all that on your doorstep. Compared to the UK, it's an absolute paradise.
Good luck with the other channel too. HH
Hi, could share more details about your job - do you work for a UK company and are you autónomo or actually employed? How did you find the job? I have just acquired Spanish citizenship as I used to live there safe want to move back in the next 2 years but I need a job I can do out there.
Great video look forward to you're restaurant, food,tapas videos so that we will know what villages and restaurants to visit. We can see some of the villages (Jacarrila and Bigastro) from our terrace in Torrevieja but we have only driven through the others you mentioned on trips to Murcia.
We will soon be driving over with our dog for our sixth 90 day visit since we retired .The first two 90 day visits we we're going to get our NLV but somehow decided not to and just keep doing the 90 days !! We are both finding it harder driving back and forth every 90 days having used every route possible even Glasgow ,Belfast , Rosslare, Bilbao ,Torrevieja and back again things you do for dogs.Hope your move to the village works out for yous and I don't need to sit in Chinatown like a mad stalker looking for yous to appear 😂😂 thanks again for the videos
Sean expat in mazarron has helped us a lot watching his vids before moving and living here , now 5 years , also love watching your journey , feliz ano Nuevo
My daughter and grandchildren are just home to Scotland after living and working in orihuela for 8 years she had a wee business that covid killed and was struggling to keep up with the lifestyle they are camped out in my living room and spare room thankfully she managed to get a good job at home 🏠
Oh no that’s a real shame. It happened to so many people. I’m really glad she’s got a job back home. All the best, and I hope everything works out well. ~ Karen x
I think these "real talk" videos are very helpful and encouraging! Ofc moving to a new country isn't going to be plain sailing all the way, but it's good to know that it's worth it despite the setbacks. I've just made the move and it feels like I'm learning all the ropes all over again.
All the best for 2024!
Thank you! All the best to you too!
Maybe they should consider other areas of Spain, the Cantabrian in the north? The cities or towns in the interior of the country? In the autonomous community of La Rioja or Navarra the quality of life and tranquility are very high, as is the great unknown of the interior of Spain, Extremadura. Or Asturias and Galicia, where you will see more bagpipes than Edinburgh :), Spain is twice as large as the UK, you can only assess the ideal area by visiting the north-central-south,(you have an idea of east in this 3 years) going from whitewashed villages to stone houses with slate roofs. Not having a beach but a lake or swamp? forests, plains or mountains? Difficult assessment....
Nicest part of Spain is the North, Galicia, where no British tourists go.
I do :/ @@aldozilli1293
I find your story interesting moving from Scotland to Spain I did a similar journey moving to Gdynia Poland 7:5 years ago with my Polish wife after living and working in London for 20 years
I took early retirement aged 62 after 47 years full time employment
Cashed in my Personal Pension and invested in 2 properties here in Poland all prior to Brexit we sold our main property 18month ago and made a substantial profit which we rolled into a larger house with a garden for our 3 dogs : I can relate in so many ways to your experience:
Not speaking Polish
Eating out in restaurants regularly and using a local bar to watch football
Due to being sick with Covid for 15 months
My life totally changed and now no longer drink alcohol and only occasionally go out to restaurants:
For me personally I could not have the financial independence I enjoy here had we moved to Scotland which we considered on a few occasions:
Wishing you both a happy and prosperous 2024 ❤
Do you really believe in THE PLANDEMIC OR WAS IT THE JAB THAT MADE YOU UNWELL THINK ABOUT IT
We watched your Christmas Day video and realised you walked near to us. We were disappointed not to have actually seen you. Been following you guys for 2years and watched all your videos.
Hi just like to say good luck for the future, I moved over to the north of Spain in 1974 ,a place called Zumaya,coming from Glasgow,I fell in love with Zumaya, then I sold up to move down to Los Balcones Torrevieja ,the biggest mistake I made ,the people down there were only interested in the peseta,in the nineties 1992 i,moved back to Scotland , it’s amazing how ,when the men move over there,they seem to die within 2yrs , any guys enjoy your life over there❤
Thank goodness Barry survived past the 2 year mark! Phew!! Thanks for watching. Hope you’re good and life is treating you well 🏴💜
Happy Hogmany to you both, we only met briefly when I was grinding outside O'Connor 's you are a lovely couple and I love the videos. Thanks Barry and Karen 🎉
Sound like a lovely couple hope everything works out and just keep going.
Thank you! 🤩
Hi you two, just recently started watching and enjoying your videos. i really enjoyed this very candid and open video. all the best for the future.
exMichigan in Spain 🇪🇸 been here since 2000 no problems,now a spanish citzen. 1st time in Spain was in 1980 - 84. USAF..
A lot of people in the States had a big problem with COVID and work I mean people I'm talking about in their 40s and it just was government overreach in my opinion keeping kids home for that long as well 😵💫😵💫🙃
Nice post guys.
We know 7 couples now who have come back over the years. Not all as couples either. It was ok when they were in their 50s but illness, death,alcohol abuse and divorce kicked in in their 70s
Trouble is they are all now broke and renting as they can't afford to buy back into the housing market.
I think an escape fund might be worth thinking about, especially as they tell us they know lots of ex pats who can"t afford to leave
At least you guys haven't slagged off the uk. They all did which I didn't like.
Been to Spain several times recently in summer. Unbelievably hot. 42c
How do you feel about this?
Happy new year to you both, l have lived in spain 7 years now the most important thing is location and type of property
I bought a villa when I first came over l stuck it 3 years then moved into a spanish town everything is on my doorstep all my neighbours are spanish and very friendly
The cost of living here allows me to live a very comfortable lifestyle, I'm 20 mins from vera so not far to the beach
Ive just come back from the uk it rained everyday all the time I was there
I have no intention of going back to the uk
Keep up posting your videos as I look forward to watching them
Thanks for watching!
Great videos guys. I was in Torrevieja last year, love it. Hope to make it back in 24. Adios amigos.
Great video both, thank you for sharing your experiences.
Loved the Xmas Day video down at La Zenia also!
Here’s to a fantastic 2024
britain is knacked under sadiq khan and his followers, good luck to you brits in spain, we may need your force in numbers if all hits the fan.
Some don't realise how.. different living here is to holidaying here; being a regular in the bar is an easy trap to fall into... see you soon 😊
Happy New Year guys! All the best! See you soon!
@ScottishCoupleInSpain igualmente- hope you had a good one!
Happy New Year to you both from Stoke on Trent x Great video, look forward to seeing more in 2024 x
Think that was a good point that maybe some people came to beat the Brexit transition period rather than thinking it through just to get residency much more easily than it now is post Brexit with the financial eligibility criteria. It is a challenge deciding where to settle when you don't have any natural links to places. Maybe the best plan is no plan! If you can work remotely then rather than buy like you say you are free to move anywhere that has good internet and experience all the wonders of Spain. All best wishes!
Very true! Thanks for watching and commenting, all the best for the new year to you and yours! ☺️
fair play to you both , took the risk and hopefully get the reward you both deserve . we are looking at la zenia in the not too distant future . out there a few more times in 2024 , the only thing is the work side of things .keep up the good work with the videos very informative content .
Well done guys! Brilliant video.
I would like to relocate but having family here it’s hard especially parents ☺️
We are returning, God willing, Feb 1st for two months! Los Boliches (Fuengirola) .
Hi there,
Thanks for all the video’s! We did enjoy them very much. Last december we bought our home in Aguas Nuevas, Torrevieja. Just a year of fun in the surroundings and the city of Torrevieja.
We are looking for some opportunities to live (and work) here. Until then, we travel between our homes and will be here every month. We ❤ Spain!
When we see you, we will say hi 😊
Happy new year for both of you!
I found you guys back in early 2021, I ended up buying a property just down the coast. It is interesting to follow your journey. All the best :-)
Glad you are enjoying the content. We will be having a 10,000 subscribers party soon. Stay tuned.
You made it in the newspapers on line yesterday!
Really what one?
Hi , it was in one of the tabloids I quickly look through. Either the mail or the sun. I said to my partner about you being on there. They showed a picture of you with an article and mentioned your channel. I’ve just tried to find it .
Great video, nice to hear a bit of your back story .The good thing is your living your dream ,you know the old saying you're a long time dead. I had the opportunity of walking across the North of Spain when I retired. A Glasgow man with no Spanish miming my way across Spain for 4 weeks, sometimes we just have to go for it. Thanks for all the video s .All the best for 2024. Long may your road run.
Good honest video, Spain 🇪🇸 is not a Bed of Roses as some might think,
Sun is wonderful and we all enjoy it but come July August time it nearly impossible to get about. I am heading over January 2nd for 8 - 10 weeks to see what it like, have experience Torrevieja in Holiday mode but living in Torrevieja is another subject, so I will give it a go,
I currently live in Rural Wexford a lovely area, but October -March a graveyard, and i don't like driving late at night, So will .pick up a bit of work just to get of Apartment, I have a Irish Pension i have contact out there, But living permanently in Torrevieja still needs a lot of consideration.
Health care is my main concern access to it and communication issues ,
Any tips greatly appreciated
Keep making videos
Greets from Belgium
There are no whitewashed villages on the Costa Blanca. You need to visit the Costa Del Sol for that. It’s more expensive though
Very good explaining the high's and low's of living in Spain, but I think ye will be back in Scotland this time next Year, I tried 6 Weeks in our apartment to see how would my wife and I would get on the last Week was hell, missing the grand children friends and here in Ireland the weather is horrible but it's home........Happy New Year to your both
We’re in our 4th year here now… trust me, we won’t go back unless something extremely drastic happened. Very happy with life here and plan on retiring here as well.
Hopefully ye will be happy there in paradise and that my comment is wrong, ye were right not to buy until your sure that ye made the right decision, We bought an Apartment near Villamartin in 1999 love it but it failed us to live there we go for a Month 3 times a Year but have no regrets would love to meet you for a cuppa the next time we are over I am 71 my wife is 74……all the best from West Cork in Ireland
Thank you. Happy New Year to you and all the best for 2024! 🥳
Could we meet up next time we are out and I will buy you a drink or coffee in Paddy’s Point
I found your video really interesting as I do come out to playa flamenca twice a year but I don't drive there. I think it's a great idea you'll be telling us about the small villages that we can visit and also if any transport.
Happy new year 🎉
Well done.We moved to Italy in 2018 so beating brexit.Best thing we have ever done.
Brilliant!! Thank you!
Fantastic video, you are covering all areas , Good luck in the future. I’m sure I will bump into you two one day
Great video, Barry and Karen. Although I'm missing the updates on the harbour works.
@beatledrive We did one two weeks ago. Nothing much has changed!
Well done guys you stuck to your guns and made it work happy new years.guys 🎉🎉🎉
Hiya. I watched you from the start.
You're a lovely couple.
Great video.
Happy Thursday.
💜🙏🏼
another good video guys, thanks. I am renting before I buy there, dealing with rental scammer ads could be a good vlog for you guys, have a great 2024!!
Hi Karen.What kind of work do you do that you can work from home? I would be interested to know as looking to move to spain and wondered what opportunities are for women.thanks really enjoy your perspective and the channel.
Feliz 2024 y muchas gracias por vuestros vidéo de mi querida Torrevieja 🌠❤️🇪🇸🥰🐕🦺🏖️🌴🎉
Feliz año! 🥳🥳
You guys are fantastic. I love watching your videos ,
We are hoping to move to spain ourselves, so watching your videos is an eye-opener for us. I'd like to be on the Costa blanca side, too .
So, just a quick question for you barry ? How did you manage or cope with driving on the left side of the road? And how long did it take for you to get used to it.
Happy New year to you both 🍾🥂🥳🎉 X x
Try to do all that relocating around in the Uk😢
Hi just been watching you on scotsman in tenerife so thought I'd check in to yoour channel
Thank you. Hope you enjoy our videos as much as Kevs.
I'm half of an Irish couple who live in La Siesta and have been following you since before me moved to Spain. Would love to attend your 10K subscriber night. 😅 how do we get in on that? I find you both very interesting and relatable.
😀 Feliz Navidad