Why did I choose Spain to live in after the pandemic?

From a young age, I dreamed of living abroad. I was especially inspired by my English classes, where we discussed the cultural features of the UK and admired its stunning landscapes. This world seemed completely different to me, and it attracted me like a magnet.

Thinking about moving has begun.

Serious thoughts about moving to another country started to arise for me shortly before the pandemic began. However, I didn't have the chance to realize my plans, as the world faced restrictions on international travel. As soon as the situation began to improve and borders reopened, I decided that I no longer wanted to postpone my dreams.

Why Spain?

Why did I choose Spain? I was fortunate enough to visit this country as a tourist, and I was shocked by its beauty and the warmth of the locals, who were always ready to help. I was especially impressed by the climate. Spain delights with its bright sunshine, and after the cold winters in Moscow, it feels like a breath of fresh air. After spending enough time in Spain, I realized how positively sunny weather affects overall happiness and a sense of well-being.

Geographical proximity

The geographical proximity of this country to Russia was also very important to me. Spain is not that far away, and I always have the option to return if the need arises. This is one of the significant factors for me.

Preparation for moving

Preparations for the arrival began in May 2022. I obtained a Schengen visa for two years and started gathering all the necessary documents for business and personal needs, including diplomas, passports, birth certificates, and other important papers.

Moving tips

• When it comes to moving, I would recommend not overloading yourself with unnecessary items, especially clothes.
• In Spain, there are many affordable stores, and twice a year there are large sales where you can buy quality jeans or sweaters for 10-15 euros.

Registration of residence permit

As for the residence permit application, I started this process after moving to Spain. My plan was to obtain the status based on my enrollment in language courses. To do this, I contacted a specialized organization that helped me not only choose an educational institution but also gather the necessary documents for obtaining the residence permit.

To apply for a residence permit, it was necessary to gather several documents, including:

• Certificate of no criminal record
• Health insurance (which costs about 700 euros a year in Spain)
• Confirmation of enrollment in the school courses

It is important for the educational institution to have accreditation from the Cervantes Institute. Additionally, the program should include at least 20 hours of Spanish language classes per week. Therefore, one should be prepared for hard but interesting work both in the classroom and at home.

Who is eligible for a student residence permit?

It should be noted that not only university and college students can obtain a student residence permit in Spain, but also foreigners who wish to study the language in courses. I hope that my observations will be helpful to those who also dream of starting a new life in another country.

Choosing a language school

Choosing a school for language study is critically important and should be based on the accreditation issued by the Cervantes Institute. The processing of all necessary documents is governed by a special legislative act known as the "Foreigners Act" (Ley Orgánica 4/2000).

Training must take place at an educational institution located in Spain, and the confirmation document of enrollment must specify the form of study – only full-time study – and include information about the duration of the courses.

Financial security

Financial securityis a crucial aspect of obtaining a visa and residence permit. You will need a certificate from a financial institution confirming that you have funds of approximately €580 for each month throughout your entire study period.

It is worth mentioning that there are also various alternative options in Spain that allow for obtaining residency.

Housing search

When I moved, my first step was to find accommodation, and I immediately decided to stay in a hotel. At that moment, I didn't have a Spanish SIM card. I registered on a local real estate website using my Russian phone number. The entire communication process took place using an online translator.

Working with agencies

Almost all property owners in Spain work with real estate agents, and most listings are posted through agencies. I responded to current offers, but I also kept a close eye on their status, as outdated listings are usually already closed.

• Usually, within a few hours after sending the request, one of the realtors would respond to me in the messenger.
• The responses came in Spanish, which added an extra difficulty.

I started learning the language back in Moscow, but my level wasn't high. Online translators helped me a lot with this. I would schedule times to view apartments and immediately head out to the meetings.

Criteria for choosing an apartment

When choosing an apartment, the first thing I considered was its location. I wanted to live in a quiet area. In Moscow, I lived in the southwest, not far from the "Prospekt Vernadskogo" metro station, and I had no peace at all — the noise never stopped, neither day nor night. Such conditions were exhausting.

As for rental prices, in a small city like Salamanca, they are quite reasonable in the European context. Suitable options can be found in the range of €500–700 per month.

Final stage of the search

In the final stage of my search for housing in Salamanca, I was left with only two options. It turned out that both options belonged to the same owner. The first apartment I viewed didn't suit me because it was too spacious — three rooms and over 100 square meters, plus there was construction going on right next to it, which created additional inconveniences.

In the end, I preferred a one-bedroom apartment in a new modern residential complex with gas heating. This housing is located on the banks of the Tormes River, just 15 meters from the water. The place is in the city center, which provides easy access to all the necessary amenities.

During my entire stay in Salamanca, I never used public transport, only occasionally called a taxi. This city is very convenient for walking.

Budget options

It should also be mentioned that there are affordable areas on the outskirts of large cities like Madrid and Barcelona, which can be a great option for buying a home.

Signing the lease agreement

As for the rental, I met with the realtor in his office to sign the contract, and the process went smoothly, without any serious issues.

I sent in advance the electronic version of my foreign passport and the document confirming my legal stay in the country, namely the certificate of completion of language courses. To rent the apartment, a deposit was required, which amounted to one and a half months' rent, as well as prepayment for the first and last months of rent. After signing all the necessary documents, we discussed when the keys would be handed over. At this stage, all issues were resolved, and there were minimal difficulties in obtaining the apartment.

Rental conditions

I rented a place under very favorable conditions. Typically, in Spain, when signing a lease, they require much more serious deposits—ranging from six to twelve months' rent. This is due to issues with "okuas," who can move into an apartment and not pay rent, and evicting such tenants can become a real problem. An important detail is the possibility of finding an apartment that is already fully furnished and equipped with all the necessary appliances. I only bought a multicooker and a small juicer for fresh juices. Additionally, I have excellent Wi-Fi connectivity, which also plays a significant role.

All living expenses amount to about 500 euros per month. I also pay around 60 euros a month for utilities, including electricity and water supply. During the winter, heating costs were about 40 euros. It should be noted that I also paid for water heating with gas. Now that heating is no longer needed, gas expenses are between 20-30 euros per month.

Stories of other people

Among the people who have chosen Spain as their new home, there are many different stories. For example, a woman from Moscow shared her experience of living in a country with strong matriarchal traditions. She mentioned that she bought a property in Spain seven years ago and is now planning to return for work. At 50 years old, not speaking the language, she has some concerns, but her experience of living in the country gives her confidence.

Salamanca and its features

The more I explore Spain, the more it attracts me with its friendly atmosphere. Salamanca is a small but very charming city, home to both older people and young students. The total population is around 160,000, plus about 30,000 students who study here. This city is famous for its renowned university — the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest educational institutions in Europe.

The locals are friendly, although their level of English leaves much to be desired, which created some difficulties at the beginning when my Spanish was at a beginner level. However, I always had a mobile translator at my disposal, which significantly eased communication. My impressions of the region are overwhelmingly positive.

Visiting other regions

In addition, I managed to visit the northern region of the country, the Basque Country, and specifically the city of Bilbao. The atmosphere there is completely different, the nature is significantly distinct, and the area is more focused on business and attracting tourists. As a result, the cost of living there is considerably higher.

Madrid and its rhythm of life

Madrid, like any other capital, stands out against the backdrop of other cities in the country both in terms of scale and pace of life. The capital has many migrants, and this does not create a negative impression. The residents of Madrid show friendliness and a willingness to help in any situation. Prices for food and basic goods are generally comparable to those in Moscow.

In Spain, the cost of fruits and vegetables is often lower than in other countries, which is related to the agrarian economy characteristic of this region. A significant amount of local agricultural products helps reduce transportation costs, which in turn affects food prices. Moreover, the quality of fresh vegetables and fruits in Spain is at a high level.

This residential complex features a communal pool, which will be a great place for both adults and children. The town of Ciudad Quesada has about 15,000 local residents, among whom...

Real estate in Barcelona

When discussing the real estate market in Barcelona, it is worth noting that a commercial space priced at 900,000 euros is a property with a total area of 1,213 square meters, located in the Berzum area. According to the cadastral records, the total area of this premises is 1,213 m².

Currently, this space is rented by a supermarket of a well-known chain, which signed a lease agreement in 1986, set to expire in 2029. The rent is 54,000 euros per year, and starting in 2025, an increase to 56,856 euros per year is expected. The utility costs, in turn, amount to 1,233.16 euros.

Apartment in Malaga

Additionally, there is a wonderful opportunity to purchase an apartment in Malaga for the price of €175,400. This property has an area of 93 m² and includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms, as well as a cozy relaxation area.

The residential complex offers a full range of amenities, creating a favorable environment for comfortable living. The complex features 154 residential units with 2 or 3 rooms, each apartment having its own parking space and storage room. Additionally, a communal pool is available for all residents.

Loft in Alicante

The "Alisa Estate" agency offers a stylish loft in Alicante for 129,000 euros. This two-story loft, measuring 60 m², features a kitchen, a toilet, and a fully equipped bathroom, with the bedroom located on the upper level.

The attic space is designed and furnished for the owner's maximum comfort, and the kitchen is already equipped with all the necessary appliances.

Apartment in Torrevieja

In Torrevieja, people are considering the possibility of buying an apartment for the price of 164,900 euros. The apartment has an area of 89 m² and includes:

• Three bedrooms
• Two bathrooms
• The kitchen
• A spacious living room
• A terrace with an area of 6 m²

The interior space has undergone a major renovation, featuring a modern air conditioning system, and the kitchen is equipped with the latest appliances, including a stove and hood, dishwasher, and microwave.

House on the Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca also offers interesting options: a house for sale for 1,490,000 euros, located in an exclusive area of Javea. This new property features modern architectural design and smooth lines, and is situated close to the beach, top international schools, picturesque golf courses, supermarkets, and restaurants.

The villa providesluxurious living conditionswith four bedrooms.

Elite penthouse in Marbella

Finally, an elite penthouse is for sale in Marbella for €4,995,000. These apartments feature spacious terraces and are located in the heart of the Golden Mile on the Costa del Sol.

The complex offers a high standard of living and comfort to all its residents thanks to its magnificent spaces and quality finishes.

Exceptional microclimate and its benefits

The municipality is distinguished by its outstanding microclimate, which provides a comfortable temperature year-round, as well as more than three hundred sunny days a year. This region is renowned for its status as a center of luxury and glamour.

Real estate in Casares

For example, in Cáceres, Spain, you can find apartments with an area of 106 square meters for 380,000 euros, which include three bedrooms and two bathrooms. There is also the option to arrange an online viewing and conduct the transaction remotely with payment in rubles.

Villas in Algorfa

A villa is for sale in Algorfa for 549,000 euros. The property has an area of 133 square meters and includes:

• four bedrooms,
• three bathrooms,
• two terraces.

The purchase of the villa is possible on the condition of obtaining a residence permit after the completion of the transaction, which makes this offer particularly attractive. As in previous cases, online viewing and remote calculations are available.

Apartments in Barcelona

In Barcelona, you can purchase an apartment with an area of 475 square meters for 2,950,000 euros, located in the prestigious Sant Gervasi district. It takes only 15 minutes to drive to the city center. The apartment includes:

• five bedrooms,
• four bathrooms,
• wide hall,
• fully equipped kitchen,
• terrace.

The residential complex offers concierge services, and heating and air conditioning systems are being installed in the apartment.

Commercial real estate in Barcelona

There is also commercial real estate available in Barcelona, listed for sale at 900,000 euros. The total area of this property is 565 square meters, with a facade width of 25 meters, and it is currently leased to a supermarket of a well-known chain with a contract valid until June 2026.

The annual rental income is 60,240 euros, and the following conditions are required:

• a deposit for two months,
• utility expenses amounting to 3676 euros per year,
• property tax of 5541 euros.

Apartments in Madrid

In Madrid, you can consider updated housing with an area of 87 square meters priced at 889,000 euros. This property includes:

• three bedrooms,
• three bathrooms.

It features a custom design made from high-quality materials, adorned with wooden elements, and equipped with modern air conditioning and LED lighting. The apartment is located in the vibrant Malasaña neighborhood, popular among young people.

Chalet on the Costa Brava

A chalet is available on the Costa Brava for €825,000. The property covers an area of 150 square meters. This luxurious real estate is located in the picturesque village of Llafranc, offering stunning views of the sea, sky, forest, and the entire breathtaking nature. The complex includes:

• tennis court,
• pool,
• green plantings.

The chalet, built in 2017, is designed in a modern style.

Modern villa on the Costa Brava

For investors interested in larger projects, a modern villa is available on the Costa Brava for 5,800,000 euros. It has an area of 1,062 square meters and includes:

• six bedrooms,
• eight bathrooms.

This magnificent villa is located in one of the most prestigious complexes of Costa Brava, Punta Brava, near the bustling coastal town of San Feliu de Guixols. The modern design, abundant glass panels, and secluded location make this property extremely appealing for purchase.

Path and changes

I want to summarize my journey and the changes that have occurred in my life in Spain. Every step I took was carefully considered and weighed. From the very beginning, when I first thought about moving, I understood that this decision would impact all aspects of my life. Spain has become not just a country for me; it has become a new reality, full of vivid experiences and diverse opportunities.

New horizons and culture

Moving to Spain has opened up an amazing world for me, where every day brings new acquaintances and emotions. I enjoy learning the Spanish language, which, although it requires persistence, becomes a source of joy and inspiration for me due to its melodiousness and beauty. I have learned a lot about Spanish culture and traditions, which has only strengthened my connection to this country.

Housing search

The search for housing became a separate chapter of my adventure. Upon arriving in Salamanca, I experienced all the challenges and joys of the rental process, from interacting with agents to choosing the right apartment. I can't help but emphasize how important it was to find a peaceful place to live, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, which significantly improved my quality of life.

In the end, the cozy apartment by the banks of the Tormes River became my little haven, a place where every morning I wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy sunny days.

Personal growth and adaptation

I continue to grow as a person and a professional, actively integrating into society and adapting to a new way of life. In this process, the friendly attitude of the locals helps me, as they always warmly welcome newcomers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to say that moving to Spain has been one of the most significant steps in my life. It's not just a new country; it's a new perception of life, new perspectives, and a new path. Moreover, the ability to stay connected with my family in Russia, along with my constant drive for self-improvement, gives me confidence that I have chosen the right path.

• New horizons:Every day brings new acquaintances.
• Language learning:Spanish has become a source of joy and inspiration.
• The emergence of a cozy home:The apartment by the river has improved the quality of life.
• Personal growth:Adaptation to a new society and culture.

I have no doubt that this experience will enrich me with new knowledge, skills, and life lessons. Spain is exactly the place where I feel truly happy. I am ready for the new challenges and discoveries that await me ahead.