Hello can we have some advice please - Next stage of life

1. Main Towns:- Turré, Los Gallardos, Cabrera, Mojácar, Mojacar Playa, Sopalmo, Carboneras, Cortijo Grande, + several other towns/villages. Mojacar Playa is a coastal resort with all year round activity and if the truth be known of little character and largely without a heart (though I live there on-and-off whenever I feel like some sun/heat/relaxation). Sopalmo (Spaniard populated) is a quiet hamlet between Mojacar Playa and Carboneras. Turré and Los Gallardos probably double their populations every 3 years (currently) with English speaking peoples.  Carboneras is coastal and is increasing in size. Cabrera (Spanish) is quaint and Cortijo Grande largely the same. Mojacar Pueblo is mostly Spanish but with increasing expat community mainly from the UK. If I describe my idea of characteristics I'll probably be facing a firing squad by noon today.

2. If you don't speak Spanish your ability to mix/integrate will be minimum. However, the expat communities are always open to you. Local activities in each would include hill walking (not easy and not for the guy who likes walks on the level). Cycling is difficult enough too, but depends on where you are living. Some locals would participate but largely it is the expat community that drives most activities.

3. Depending on where you live the population can be spread between expats and locals e.g. Mojacar Playa in the off season would be split 50/50 between expats and Spaniards. 

4. Local markets happen weekly in most areas and on particular days so you can easily travel between locations and enjoy. 

5. Key Residents Value:- If I knew the answer to this I'd be applying to compete on Mastermind with Sierra Cabrera being my chosen subject. 

6. Stable/churning/transient population depends on where you are talking about. Unemployment is rife in Andalucia and young Spaniards will chase out good employment elsewhere. 

7. If you wish to integrate in local (Spanish) life learn Spanish. Forget the cut-and-thrust of life in Greater London, accept a slower lifestyle and be open to change and Rule Number 1 (be aware you are in a foreign country living with people who have lived it for thousands of years). Don't expect them to change to facilitate you and be prepared to change to facilitate them. There is no happy medium (I fear another firing squad and this time by 10.00am).

My Advice:- Rent a property in the off season for as long as you can (say 5 weeks) and by the end of that time you will know if whatever area you like is for you and more especially if Spain is for you. You might wish your property to be an investment where you can rent it out when it's not in use which will confine your choice. Ignore television programmes like Homes in the Sun.

Activities:- If you have a car any activity in which you are used to will be open to you. 

Hello Matthew thank you so much for a detailed and thoughtful response.  You have given us a lot of info to think about and your suggestion to rent for a few weeks is great we will probably do that.  Thanks once again. Karan

Hi Karen, 

1. I don't think I've even scratched the surface of advice to you. Whenever you decide to buy (and I think you will) employ a solicitor to act solely for you and don't share the solicitor with the vendor or estate agent - You've been warned.(Sexist comment coming up . . . . . female solicitors are best and if anybody accuses me of being sexist then hands up, I am.

2. Go through the planning laws (local knowledge) to ensure you're not going to be overlooked by whatever new dual carriageway/motorway being planned. The estate agent will probably deflect such questions and more importantly the answer.

3. Don't fall for "the railway line between Alicante and Almeria is completed trick" as it has been that way for years and no train has ever run on the tracks. I understand 2023 is the newest estimate although don't be surprised if the date is again deferred.

4. Your off season rental is of the utmost importance and will answer any questions poised. You could rent a centrally located 2 bedroom apartment in Mojacar Playa in the off season (November to April) for under €700 per month (utilities included). Rent a car and enjoy exploring; you'll love it. 

5. If I've survived the firing squads please feel free to call in to our place and you'll get some decent Irish hospitality.

6. Buy yourself an exclusive notebook for all things Spanish and make copious notes - don't just trust the internet.

7. Allow about €2K per annum running costs (Spanish taxes etc) before any utility bills. Many people forget this beforehand and find themselves in some kind of arrears.

Hi Mathew, thanks your point about the solicitor is noted, and we will definitely rent for a month in the area, and also thank you very much for your kind offer of hospitality we may well drop in for a coffee.  Thanks again.  Karan

Hi! hope you are both well and don’t mind me asking you if you decided to buy and live in Sierra Cabrera…?