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If you’re thinking of moving to Spain, we explain why we think moving to Malaga is the best option.
Malaga and the Costa del Sol are popular, chic and cosmopolitan destinations for holidaymakers and expats. Many families and couples settle here for the great sunny weather, friendly lifestyle, fresh cuisine, culture and the amazing Andalusian festivals.
It’s still more economical to live in southern Spain than in any northern European countries as property prices and the cost of living are comparatively cheaper.
It’s a fabulous place to bring up children who have plenty of sports and activities to enjoy as well as a range of good schools, either Spanish run or international schools.
It’s fun for the grown-ups too, who enjoy sports in the sunshine or keen to learn about the culture and cuisine of the Costa del Sol.
- A superb climate and miles of coastline
The Costa del Sol enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout the year, with an average of about 300 days of glorious sun. So, mostly you will live outdoors and enjoy a life spent in the sunshine.
- International Airport
The Malaga (Pablo Ruiz Picasso) International Airport is hosting the flights to the Costa del Sol.
Overall in 2018 a total of 19,021.704 passengers were passing through the airport which was up 2.1% compared to 2017.
The airport has flight connections to more than 60 countries worldwide.
The airport has a daily link with twenty cities in Spain and over 145 cities in Europe. Direct flights also operate to Africa, North America and also the Middle East, in the summer season.
- Healthcare in Spain.
Spain is known for having one of the top healthcare systems in the world and it maintains a high-quality network of hospitals and medical centers throughout the country. Basic medical services are free. All EU residents are entitled to free health care.
If you are registered to work in Spain and have National Insurance contributions, you’ll be eligible for the state-run health care on the same basis as a Spanish national. If you’re a temporary visitor to Spain, you’ll need to take an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card). Spain also offers private insurance without any citizenship restrictions.
- International people
Due to the diversity of nationalities who live and also visit the Malaga province and the Costa del Sol, there is a very international and cosmopolitan feel to many areas. English is widely spoken, as well as German, and other European languages. You will feel like home. - Low cost of living
One of the many perks of relocating to Spain is the cost of living. Many costs are fairly low in Spain if you want to eat and live like a local. Property is also reasonably priced in comparison. Food is quite reasonably priced if bought outside of tourist and commercial areas. For most people, the cost of living in Spain is generally lower than in their home country. - Safety and Security
The Costa del Sol is an ideal place that would allow a family and elderly people to feel secure and safety. Statistically is one of the safest places to live in Europe, making it a safe environment for families. Spain is also a country that puts family before all else, where the elderly are given the respect they deserve. - Spanish education
There are three categories of Spanish schools in the Spanish education system: public schools, private and semi-private schools, which are funded partially by the state and partially by private sources. Educational options exist from pre- school nurseries, primary, junior, secondary and further education.
Education authorities have an obligation to help foreign students integrate and must provide specific programmes to do this. State education is free of charge in Spain from preschool to 18 years, although in some regions parents may be asked to pay for books, other materials and extra-curricular activities.
- Work and income
While European Union citizens do not need a work permit, but you will need to obtain a social security number to be able to work in Spain. Most non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens will need a work permit but there are some exceptions, such as family members of people who already have a work visa or scientists or researchers who have come to work on a specific project.
Finding a job in Spain requires research and starting your own business needs an even greater amount of thought and planning.
If you don’t do this, make sure you have money to live in Spain for at least six months while you find a job and establish yourself.
It is also worth looking into taxes that need to be paid in Spain, and consider organising your accounts in advance. - Sports
The Costa del Sol, with the finest golf facilities in Europe, became known as the Costa del Golf. It ́s simply a golfer’s paradise! Over 70 golf courses, most of them in Marbella, Estepona, Mijas and Benahavís. Add the fabulous year-round climate and its most definitely golfing heaven.
To partake in skiing is also possible, only a 2 hour drive from Malaga and therefore is a popular option for day trips or weekends away. It is also possible to ski in the snow and swim in the sea on the same day! Details about Sierra Nevada.
Water sports: Boating, kayaking, dolphin watching, kite-surfing, parasailing, diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and water skiing are only some of many possible water activities worth trying while visiting the Costa del Sol.
Hiking: the landscapes of rural Andalucía are breathtaking and one of the best ways to appreciate their diversity and beauty is on foot. There are designated footpaths, as well as those inside the national and natural parks.
Cycle tracks and specially designated routes for cyclists. Known as a “carril de cicloturismo”, it is clearly signposted.
Many senderos (footpaths) can also be used by cyclists, except ones that are particularly narrow. Mountain bikes are increasingly available for hire.
Some protected areas may be traversed by a vía verde, a former railway line that has been converted into a cycle way and footpath.
- Gastronomy & Cultural
Malaga’s cuisine has also undergone an enormous evolution. New restaurants and bars have emerged where you can enjoy dishes ranging from traditional Malaga cuisine to the most international choice and variety.
In addition, many chefs have opted to reinvent the local cuisine and have merged it with new flavours, giving the Costa del Sol one of the most cosmopolitan culinary offerings. - Culture
Malaga also offers some genuinely interesting historical and cultural attractions in its old city and its setting on the coast is still beautiful. The archaeological remains and monuments from the Phoenician, Roman, Arabic and Christian eras make the historic center of the city an “open museum”, displaying its history of nearly 3,000 years. Also you can find in the museums and cultural centres.
The painter and sculptor Pablo Picasso, Hebrew poet and Jewish philosopher Solomon Ibn Gabirol and the actor Antonio Banderas were born in Málaga. The magnum opus of Cuban composer Ernesto Lecuona, “Malagueña”, is named after the music of this region of Spain.
Marbella Luxury Homes are property finders and relocation specialist on the Costa Del Sol, we assure a prompt and effective service and security in the purchase process, while generating a simpler and more reliable buying experience. Already offering our services to a multitude of different nationalities around the world and now opening to the South African and United States market.
Ensuring that a total turnkey solution is offered to our clients from the opening of bank accounts, paperwork to support the residency, Spanish Golden Visa facilitation to advising on schools for their children, medical aid and insurance. We look forward to welcoming you to southern Spain, let Marbella Luxury Homes guide you.
Choosing your best partner certainty will determine your success in the process of moving to Spain.