I, like many before me dreamt of one day living in Spain, however, due to its popularity with British ex-pats over the last twenty years I wondered where I would find a place in the sun I could call my own. Thanks to the programme with the same name I discovered a little known region called Extremadura and soon after started a nine month correspondence with Hendrik Berends - who soon became my dear friend Enrique.
Finally I made the trip over to Cáceres province, Extremadura’s most beautiful region and best described as one huge nature park, and met my e-mail friend in the flesh – the usual whirlwind tour he gives everyone followed and within two days of arriving I had a Spanish bank account, an architect and a lawyer and I had also found my future Spanish home: A small village house not far from Cáceres city. Although it was habitable, I decided to reform the first floor and put in a new kitchen and bathroom.
However, that is not the end of the story – because I have not yet mentioned my reason for buying abroad – a holiday home? – a place to retire to? For me the move to Spain is a permanent one to integrate into local society, in Cáceres province I have found a region that is green for at least eight months of the year, with a lovely climate, diverse culture, wonderful food and very reasonably priced living!! Yes it is true that I am selling my business in England prior to moving out in April 2008, but am I retiring for good – No!
In fact I have already purchased another property not far from my village house, which my daughter is going to run as a B&B for me. She will be moving out with her two year old daughter – so my little village near Cáceres will have three generations of invaders! I am not worried about the welcome though, as the locals have already proved to be very friendly, in many ways showing me their impatience for us to move there. My Spanish has to improve though because this region is the real Spain – no fish and chips – no lager louts - thank goodness!
For anyone like me who is fed up with British winters and craves a better lifestyle – but is not yet ready to retire, please be assured – business opportunities abound here and not only in the tourist industry. Extremadura is a developing area and needs people from all walks of life who have their expertise to offer.
I promise you that without Enrique’s help I would not be in this position – looking forward to moving next April – but I have no worries as I am assured of continuing friendship and assistance – this guy is not one of your get rich quick merchants – dropping you as soon as you’ve purchased a property – he becomes your friend – always at the end of the phone and answering his e-mails, constantly working on your behalf in Spain when you’re back in England.
So – after April 2008 – if you’re around – come and see me – drop in for a coffee and a chat – you will be most welcome!!
Christine Smith
spain.christine@googlemail.com
November 29th, 2007