Spain is still one of the most popular destinations for British holiday makers and those looking for property to buy either as a holiday home or for a more permanent residence. And one can very easily see why. The attractions of this vast and varied country are obvious: beautiful beaches, 320 days a year sunshine a year, fascinating culture, easy-going and laid back lifestyle, delicious food and wine, the mountains of Andalucia, and the magnificence of cities such as Madrid and Barcelona.
Most go for the sun and the more relaxed way of life aided by lower property prices and general living costs. The obvious place for this lifestyle are the Costas on the East and South coasts from Benidorm down to Malaga and Marbella. These are very popular with holidaymakers and have a full and interesting nightlife, something to bear in mind should you be looking for a retirement home and require something more relaxing. This can however offer some opportunities for part time work in the hotels and bars if needed.
Another factor for this area is that the summer temperatures can get very high and air conditioning or a pool is more a necessity than a luxury.
As with most coastal areas property further inland is usually a bit cheaper but rural property in Spain can often be designated as agricultural land and a full check with the appropriate regional authorities should be undertaken to ensure that full planning permission has been granted for residential use.
Spain is not just for the sun and beach lovers, there is a wide and varied range of climates to suit any requirements.
The Espana Verde or Green Spain is the lush northern edge stretching from the French border across the Atlantic coast to the Portuguese border. Because of the influence of the Atlantic the climate is temperate and similar to Britain in that it rains but is warmer. There are ferry services from Plymouth to Santander or Portsmouth to Bilbao which makes it easier if you wish to take your own car or pets with you and you are not limited by what you can carry on a plane. This is also an area famed for its regional cuisine especially as you head into Basque country.
There are also vibrant cities such as Barcelona and Madrid each with their own cultural histories to explore for those who wish a more cosmopolitan experience of museums and theatres but still having time for their annual festivals to remind you that you are in Spain.
So take a look at the whole country before deciding where you wish to buy to spend your retirement or future holidays as there is a part of Spain for everyone each area as exciting and friendly as the next.
