When Canadians come to Spain

We first came to Nerja in the winter of 2017. Rented a house for six months, invited family and friends, and honestly, I was hooked from day one. I couldn’t stop posting photos—sunny skies, beach walks, tapas, all of it. A few people got inspired and made the trip out. Some stayed with us for…

When it rains, it pours! 

The Costa del Sol, known for its sunny beaches, warm Mediterranean waters, and over 300 days of sunshine per year, is often associated with endless summer weather. But the truth is that it does rain here and when it does, it pours! The occasional torrential rains on the costa del sol are rare but powerful….

Do you need to learn Spanish to live in Spain?

Learning a new language is a daunting task especially in your 60s. It seems like a fun thing to do when you have more time on your hands and an easy project when you are a French speaker but let me tell you, after 7 years of studying and practicing daily, it is not easy….

Hola! I am back!!

It has been a long time since my last post. We have been very busy getting settled in our new house and ready for the next chapter of our life in Spain. I have many subjects ideas for future posts in the coming months but first I would like to update you on what we…

Estate Taxes in Spain

If you acquire a property in Spain as we did, you need to know about inheritance tax. Unlike Canada, there are taxes to pay in Spain on inheritances and they can be quite hefty. The level of tax varies depending on the relationship to the deceased and the region in Spain and it is the…

How can a non-European spend 6 months in Spain legally?

When we were planning our retirement, Terry and I dreamt of spending the winter months somewhere warm and sunny.  The winters in Vancouver are mild but dark and rainy.  I have always had this deep love for Europe and Terry loves it too.  Spain is Europe’s warmest and sunniest destination in the winter months.  So,…

Food Market in Malaga 

Before leaving for Spain, a friend of mine said that markets were not as good as the one in France.  I thought she would be right since she is well travelled and a food lover. She went to France many times and was in Spain recently as well.  I have to say, after having been…