Spain Takes Third Place in Expat Quality of Life Survey

Spain Takes Third Place in Expat Quality of Life Survey

The weather, food and welcoming people of Spain,

help keep Spain as a top destination

The latest InterNations survey places Spain as the third best place in the world to live as an expat. The poll, which is conducted each year, surveyed 12,500 expats to rate 43 aspects of life in their new home on a scale of one to seven.

InterNations – the largest expat network in the world – take the data and calculate average scores for each country with it. They published their top 17 ranking last week, with Portugal taking top place. The country climbed up 13 places, scoring well in terms of climate and leisure. Second place went to Taiwan.

Spain reaching third place was an improvement on the fourth place it reached last year, with expats praising the Spanish climate, cultural attractions, leisure options, and ability to support high levels of personal happiness. The other countries in the top five were Singapore in fourth place and the Czech Republic in fifth. The other noticeable rankings were Germany in 10^th place, Canada coming in 13^th, and New Zealand coming in 15^th.

Spain always performs well in surveys like this, as it always scores well when it comes to health, happiness, and leisure. The country would score poorly on economic and employment factors for a while though. As the economy of Spain continues to improve, the concerns about the job market and pay are much weaker than they used to be.

It goes without saying that the climate, cuisine, beaches, landscape, safety, security, and overall accessibility of Spain – the blend that makes it such a hot spot for tourism – forms the foundation for a number of successful and happy expats.

Spain is the Place to Be This Spring and Here are Three Reasons Why

Spain is the Place to Be This Spring and Here are Three Reasons Why

Spain is a fantastic place to be all the year around

One could forgive expats living in Spain for their ever-present grins. It’s true that there isn’t a place on earth that is free from the ups, downs, and pressures of life. It’s also true that nowhere could be considered truly perfect. There’s a good chance, however, that if you’ve created a life for yourself in Spain then you’ve likely been happy, smiling, active, and feeling generally good most of the time.

The feeling of being in Spain is almost addictive. It’s impossible to not tell your friends about it, even though it will probably just inspire jealousy. The reality of Spain is that it delivers incredible quality of life. While there are some challenges that come with being an expat, it’s understandable that you would want to share why you feel the decision you made was right with the world.

With all that said, we believe Spain is the place to be this Spring, and here are three reasons why.

No Political Bluster

If you were to flick on the news or look at a news website, you’d likely find yourself staring at Donald Trump, Theresa May, Marine Le Pen, or Angela Merkel. 2017 really picked up where 2016 left off as far as headlines filled with vociferous political discourse. It seems almost every headline involves the Brexit, travel bans, posturing from the far-right or, for whatever reason, Angela Merkel and her hands.

Spaniards and the expats living in Spain understand what it’s like to be bogged down by political news. Last year the country was plagued with an election saga that lasted for much longer than most would consider healthy. This year, however, Spanish politics have quietened down. The country finally has a prime minister, the economy is doing well, and things appear to be going to just fine.

The Sound Economy

There is one benefit of staying up to date on politics. That is knowing the difference between real and fake news. One key piece of fake news plaguing Spain is the idea that the Spanish economy is still struggling.

The fact of the matter is that 2016 was an incredible year in which the GDP of Spain grew over 3%. Spain has become the fastest growing economy in Spain. It’s expected the country will see similar growth this year, which has done wonders for unemployment and the real estate industry. The result is that expats can expect it will be easier for them to get a job and a house.

The Easter Festivities

With the weather warming up – reaching temperatures of 20 degrees already in southern Spain – the country comes to life thanks to the bright sunlight and lapping shores of the Mediterranean. The emergence of Spring brings with it millions of tourists who flock to the Costa del Sol for a taste of sunshine. There are only a few weeks left until all the restaurants, bars, beaches, and hotels become full.

Easter is perhaps the major attraction that marks the transition of Spain into warmer summer days. Easter is a major deal in Andalucía, from Seville and Cádiz, to Malaga and all the small towns in-between. The Easter festivities are a great way for expats to sample a taste of Spain.

UK Ambassador of Spain Says Costa Del Sol Keeps a Special Place in the Heart of Brits

UK Ambassador of Spain Says Costa Del Sol Keeps a Special Place in the Heart of Brits

British ambassador to Spain Simon Manley was speaking at a forum in Marbella last week when he remarked that the Costa del Sol still holds a special place in the hearts of Brits, reassuring everyone in attendance that the Brexit would have no impact on this relationship.

Spain will always be a special place for Brits

The forum took place in the Costa del Sol to address what the Brexit could mean for both Spain and the UK. Manley said that the Costa del Sol can still expect to see many British holidaymakers, as 2017 could very well break the record set last year of 18 million British tourists flocking to Spain.

The ambassador was also keen to remind the crowd that Britain remains the third largest investor in Spain, and spoke of his belief that this relationship is likely going to last through the changes to the UK’s membership in the EU.

In terms of specifics, Manley said that the Madrid British Embassy is working hard to develop the relationship between Spain and the UK on a number of topics including telecommunications, creating closer aviation ties, and renewable energy.

Given how much air traffic passes between these two countries, it only makes sense for the UK and Spain to develop a stronger working and commercial relationship as far as air routes and airports go.

Both Spaniards and Brits alike are sure to enjoy measures that make it cheaper and easier to travel between the countries. Such measures would also no doubt increase tourism revenue and boosting the Spanish property market, which has always been a favourite with British investors.

Study Suggests Spain is Best Place to Start a Business

Study Suggests Spain is Best Place to Start a Business

If you’re studying business in Spain then the studies suggest that you’ll be more successful of an entrepreneur than anywhere else.

Record numbers of New Businesses are opening all over Spain

A study from the Financial Times (FT) shows that Spain really is the best place for aspiring entrepreneurs to study.

The research is based on information from full-time and executive MBA alumni (Master of Business) from the world over. The findings showed that more of the most successful entrepreneurs received their business schooling in Spain than any other country.

Even though Singapore and the UAE were considered to be the best place to actually launch your startup, the data suggests that many of these business students stay in Spain when they finish their studies; making the country the sixth-best place in the world to start a business, placing them ahead of Germany, the USA, and the UK.

Something that is more interesting is that the Spanish were second place when it came to successful entrepreneurs behind only Mexicans. It looks like there might just be something about the Spanish water that inspires business potential.

Part of the reason for this entrepreneurial success could also come from an economy that has made it hard for young Spaniards to find full-time employment; causing them to go into business for themselves.

Despite this the main cause for celebration must still be the incredible Spanish business school performance. The Financial Times data shows that Spain had the highest proportion of students who went on to set up their own company following graduation, pushing Swiss schools and US schools down to second and third.

It’s a pretty simple process to set up a company in Spain for both Spaniards and EU nationals. Even people who are outside of the EU shouldn’t have too much difficulty becoming an entrepreneur in Spain.

Spain recently changed their labour laws and the result is that it’s even easier to start business in Spain. These changes include relaxed employment laws that give potential business owners the chance to make bigger risks when it comes to growth strategies.

Another survey was carried out this week by BMC Software that discovered Spanish companies are some of the best companies in Europe when it comes to creating a creative and innovative workplace.

The study showed that 73% of the people employed in Spain feel that they can have their voices heard when it comes to creating change and innovation in their company; which is much higher than the 42% in the UK. Spanish companies also proved to be effective at inspiring their employees as 74% of employees are happy with the way their employment leaves them feeling.

These datasets show that Spain has come a long way from the old, nepotistic ways that Spain used to work. In the old days who you knew was always more important than what you knew. Things are continuing to move forward, which is good news for the youngsters and the increasing number of expats considering Spain as a place to start a new business and  can make a new life.

Spain Second Best Place for Expats to Live According to HSBC Poll

Spain Second Best Place for Expats to Live According to HSBC Poll

Spain and the Costa del Sol continues to attract

expats looking for a better quality of life and a low cost of living.

If you want your experience as an expat to be one of fun, safety, and relaxation then you should definitely consider Spain. HSBC recently ran their latest Expat Explorer Survey and it showed that Spain was ranked second globally. Spain did particularly well when it comes to health, culture, the quality of life, cost of living and the Spanish social life.

Even though Singapore came first again Spain still showed that it was a country that was able to deliver things that matter to expats. They were ranked first when it comes to health and second on categories relating to the quality of life and the social life.

Spain came in 16^th place overall out of the 66 countries included. Spain was let down it’s below average ranking in economic performance; especially career progression, wage growth, and job security.

Most people who are considering moving to Spain would feel that it ticks every box for them if they don’t need to work though. This is why retirees have always loved Spain, as have families who want access to great healthcare, a good climate, and a fun and varied social life.

The HSBC survey takes countries and ranks them across the three main categories of economics, experience, and family. Each category also has several sub-categories. Spain came in second overall in the Experience section (New Zealand came first), and did well in each sub-category including property, safety, integration, making friends, and culture. It also came in fifth in the Family category, with Sweden coming first. Spain performed well in tolerance, childcare, education and integration.

When it came to money Switzerland was king as over 30% of expats living in Switzerland earned over $200,000. The UK stuck to their reputation of being about as average as possible; coming in 20^th and neither failing nor exceeding in anything. London itself at least performed well when it came to job prospects.

The data from this survey shows that there are three kinds of expats; there are those who move for work, those who move for family, and those looking for a higher quality of life. If family and life are what matter to you then Spain is the place for you.

Why Spain is a Great Place for Your Kids to Grow Up

Why Spain is a Great Place for Your Kids to Grow Up

Spain and the Costa de Sol will always be a

wonderful place to bring up children due

to the Mediterranean lifestyle and great weather.

If you’ve ever taken a look around the blog then you know that we think Spain is a great place for kids to grow up and we’ve told you plenty of reasons why. In case you missed it here are the main reasons that Spain is the best place for kids to live and grow up.

·        Longer Childhood

No one is quite sure why but that doesn’t change the fact that kids are just kids for longer when they live in Spain. One of the reasons is that peer pressure and social pressure isn’t as big in Spain. Teenagers are allowed to go gaga over babies and toddlers without anyone thinking anything of it. If anything British kids should be allowed to have their childhoods back.

·        Safety

Spain is a country with a relatively low crime rate. There’s no need for parents to be constantly worried about their kids. In Spain you wouldn’t need to think twice if a stranger were to approach your child, talk to them, or even hold your baby. Something that would just never happen in Britain.

·        Healthcare

Spain has a fantastic healthcare system, especially when it comes to kids. Their state hospitals are a great place to give birth. It’s not like in Britain where you could be waiting a long time. They take healthcare seriously and there are practically no waiting times.

·        Language

When an expat child grows up in Spain they will learn at least two languages. They will know their mother tongue and Spanish. They might even learn a third or fourth language depending on where in Spain you are. Learning a new language can only ever be a good thing, especially for a child.

·        The Great Outdoors

Because of the warm weather many people spend more time outdoors than indoors, particularly in the south. There are also plenty of sports facilities everywhere. Playing on the beach and enjoying the countryside is something a child can do every day rather than when they’re on holiday.

·        Family First

Spain has very tight family units. Children in Spain grow up respecting their family members and appreciating what it’s like to be part of a family. They will grow up proud of their family and with respect for their elders. While they might not meet some members of their family as they are in different countries they will enjoy the time they spend together with those relatives more.

·        Food

Staying in a new place means encouraging your children to eat new foods. There are many great dishes kids love in Spain and there isn’t really a “kids menu” in the restaurants. Instead it’s customary for families to just share their plates of food. At home meal time becomes family time. There isn’t even a lot of fast food in Spain. Have you ever seen someone walking eat and eating in Spain?

Spain Voted Best Place to Study Abroad

Spain Voted Best Place to Study Abroad

Madrid has been ranked the number one place to study in Europe by overseas students. Other Spanish cities Seville and Barcelona and Costa del Sol also placed highly.

The Madrid is voted a great place to study and live

Uniplaces have published a poll in which Spain was voted the best place to study by Erasmus students.

Madrid topped the poll while Seville and Barcelona placed highly as they came in fifth and seventh respectively.

These results mean that Spain had more cities in the top ten than any other country. These results are also confirmation of something that has long been suspected – you can’t beat Spain if you want to study abroad.

Cities were ranked using different criteria in the Uniplaces poll. The main criteria were the living costs, the education standards, the culture, the history and, of course, the nightlife that students could enjoy. Madrid has a party scene that was undoubtedly going to be a big hit with foreign students.

Madrid is also filled with culture, the universities are top notch, and the transport system is great. The city as a whole is safe and affordable. So students have virtually no worries outside of how well they are performing in school.

Spain had more going for it than just that though. Spain has a great climate and low cost of living in Spain that allows students to spend as much time sunbathing as they do studying. There are also so many great bars, restaurants and cafes throughout the country; especially in the big cities.

Spain is, of course, a great place to learn Spanish. For students outside of an English speaking country it also presents a great opportunity to learn English. The country has a lot of people who speak English, including a large number of former British citizens.

The size of the country, along with the variety of the different areas, make it a real treat to explore. Each part of Spain offers something unique and new for students to see. There are mountains in the northwest and the southeast has deserts.

Throw in all the coastline and it’s not hard to see why students are choosing Spain to spend their formative years.

Spain Voted Best Place to Study Abroad by International Students

Spain Voted Best Place to Study Abroad by International Students

Spain is a great place to lean Spanish and study

Uniplaces have published a poll that has found that Spain has been voted the best place to study abroad by Erasmus students.

The survey showed that Madrid was voted the best place to study abroad, with two other Spanish cities, namely Seville and Barcelona, placing in the top ten at fifth and seventh place.

As a result Spain had more cities in the top ten than any other country. It showed us proof of what we’ve suspected all along; Spain is the place to be when you’re considering studying abroad.

Uniplaces used five main criteria to rank the cities. They were the living costs, the education standards, the culture, the history, and, as they are students, the nightlife. The famous party scene of Madrid earned some major points with foreign students.

Madrid is also filled to the brim with culture, excellent universities and transport, and is a safe and affordable place to live. All the worries of students (outside of the studying) were minimal at best.

There were other factors involved that helped Spanish cities claim the top places. They have an excellent climate that allows students to mix studying with sunbathing, and bars, restaurants and cafes that keep them well fed and help them relax during stressful periods.

Spain is also a great place to learn Spanish, a language quickly becoming more common in Europe, as well as learn English from the many people who speak it in the country.

The size and variety of Spain make it a real treat to explore. Each of the corners of Spain offer something new and unique to travellers. The northwest has verdant mountains while the southeast comes with dry deserts.

Throw in the thousands of miles of coastline and it’s not hard to see why people would choose Spain as the place to spend some of the best years of their life.

Spain is the Most Libertarian Country in Europe and The Best Place to Get a Drink

Spain is the Most Libertarian Country in Europe and The Best Place to Get a Drink

People often use the term “nanny state” to mock laws and policies that are designed to nanny the population of a country and stop them from being able to do and think what they want. Many British people feel that the UK is quickly becoming a Nanny State. Most of Scandinavia is also stuck with that label. Even though Scandinavia and the UK do have strong economies and are seen as nice places to live, they are also thought of as being too controlling.

It’s become such a problem that the European Policy Information Center (EPICENTER) has developed their own Nanny State Index to show how much government control each European state exercises.

Come to Spain its the best country in Europe !

The results of the latest index will be interesting to many. They prove that some of these stereotypes do hold true. Finland, Sweden and the UK and Ireland do indeed exercise the most control over their citizens. Unsurprisingly perhaps most former Soviet nations have the most lax policies.

The index would rate nations based on their free-market and libertarian ideals across numerous factors. This included their stance on alcohol, healthcare, food and smoking. The ranking showed that Spain was the most carefree when it comes to alcohol. They have duty-free wine and low taxes on spirits and beer and great Spanish restaurants. They also have no statutory closing time on bars, pubs and clubs. This makes Spain the best destination in Europe to enjoy a great drink.

Spain also ranked best for food. The Spanish have a similarly lax attitude to dining late. They also eat anything they want when they want and don’t care so much about health and safety, making Spain the freest country for people looking to eat a hearty meal with one of the lowest cost of living.

Overall though Spain was let down in other areas and still ranked in the lower half. It was actually the Czech Republic that was ranked the freest nation in Europe. In a surprising turn Germany was ranked second.

The report says that most of the laws and taxes in Spain that make up the Nanny State Index were introduced with the idea that they would improve public health. This is surprising considering that Spain is the country with the second highest life expectancy after Japan. As a result the index went on to conclude that there is no direct correlation between these nanny state regulations and a higher life expectancy.

So there you have definitive proof that the government doesn’t know what it’s talking about after all. None of these rules improve your life expectancy. So go to Spain and eat, drink and be merry.

Spain-is-best-Place-to-get-a-drink