expat network
expat lifestyle

What To Expect From The Expat Lifestyle In Spain

The most popular holiday and retirement destination for many British over the last several decades and that is not likely to change.  What are the attractions of living and retiring to Spain. There are believed to be more than one million Britons living in Spain permanently, and more British pensioners in Spain than in any...

where to retire

Top Ten Issues When Deciding Where To Retire Abroad

Many of us have a clear idea of where we would like to retire, but there are many factors to consider.  You may have had many happy holidays in one part of the world, but that does not necessarily mean it is the best place to spend your retirement.  Costs, taxes, environment, community and what...

retirement abroad

Top Ten Tips When Planning Your Retirement Abroad

Retiring abroad is increasingly popular with estimates ranging from 10% of people in the UK considering retiring abroad to over 30%. Moving to a warmer climate with a lower cost of living enabling you to enjoy a more active retirement can be a very attractive proposition. It is, however, a major life decision and should...

social security

How to Arrange Your US Social Security Retirement Benefit

Over half a million people receive some kind of Social Security benefit abroad, including retired and disabled workers, as well as spouses, widows, widowers, and children. If you retire abroad you can receive your Social Security payments outside the United States as long as you are eligible and live in a country where payment is...

mortgage in spain

Getting A Mortgage In Spain – A Property Buyer’s Guide

Although the Spanish property market and mortgage process may be different from what you are used to at home, it is possible for foreigners and expats to buy and get a mortgage in Spain. However not all banks – and certainly not all mortgage brokers – follow the procedures of the recently regulated mortgage market...

properties in spain

Top Tips When Viewing Properties In Spain

When planning your move to Spain there comes a time when you want to visit your chosen area to view available properties.  This is an important opportunity and it is important to ensure that you are ready and that you have done all that you can to ensure that it is an effective trip. ...

costa blanca

Costa Blanca And South East Spain: Popular Areas

Many expats looking to settle in Spain to live, work or retire are attracted by the climate and lifestyle to the Costa Blanca and the regions of South East Spain.  Here Girasol Homes outline the attractions of these popular resorts and cities. Written by Nigel Salmon, Founder and MD, Girasol Homes   Alicante The property...

costa del sol

Attractions Of The Costa Del Sol: Popular Areas

The southern coast of Spain, known as the Costa del Sol is one of the most popular travel destinations in all Europe. Named for the wonderful climate and the 300+ days of sunshine each year and mountain ranges that run the length of the region provide all year-round moderate temperatures like no other in Europe....

spanish villa

What To Look For When Buying A Spanish Villa

Are you looking to buy property in Spain? Whether you’re an expat resident, a regular visitor or a holiday landlord, owning a Spanish villa can be a huge asset. And before you say ‘but Brexit’, let’s just explain for the avoidance of doubt that the Spanish property market has always been popular with British (and...

best places

Where Are The Best Places To Live In New Zealand?

There are many factors that will decide where to live in New Zealand.   For most the work that you will be doing will determine where you will be living.  Wherever you live you will be close to the stunning scenery and have access to an outdoor lifestyle.  The cities around the country have rather different...

Issues To Consider When Assessing A Salary Abroad

You just got a job offer that looks sweet in so many ways. Before you jump at the chance, think about all of the issues that should be considered when assessing what salary will be required when you take up a role abroad. Once you consider all of the following helpful tips, you will then...

Moving Abroad With Your Pet

Deciding whether to take your pet with you can be a difficult decision. As part of the family, many want to take them with them, but there can be issues that should be considered.  Questions to ask include: what is the climate and where will you be living (an apartment or a house)? Are there...