Why I moved from Spain's Costa del Sol to the Costa Blanca

[@eastcoasthobbygardening9147]

Spain looks beautiful everywhere! Have to find what works for you!!

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

It is a beautiful country, living anywhere here would be great

[@i.f.colville2497]

What seperates Benidorm from many other resorts is that the Mayor and city hall appreciate what tourists want and bring to the town and listen to the bar owners etc and work together to improve the town for the residents and the tourists. Hope you enjoy the town and stay!

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Yes you can definitely tell there is a different attitude here, which seems to be working quite well for the city and it's residents.

[@Roque-Cachamuiña-gs1wd]

We retirees should not concentrate on certain towns, because they end up becoming authentic ghettos. I am Galician and I have gone to spend a few winters in the Mediterranean, I like the climate, but I dislike seeing how some towns are full of old people. I now live in a small town in Galicia, winter is a bit harsh, not so much because of the weather as because of the light, but you also have greater tranquility, wonderful nature, and you can enjoy small pleasures like chopping wood for the fireplace, go to the market and buy 100% natural food, wood-fired bread, have a coffee or wine surrounded by people of all ages and above all be part of an authentic community, not a Disneyland for the elderly

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

It sounds like you have a nice and relaxed way of life. I have yet to visit Galicia, but it is on my list.

[@trut52]

That is true, I always get surprised when I see a young person in my area

[@normanseagull4027]

Hi, Carlos, where in Galicia would you recommend? I want authentic Spain not Benidorm.

[@Roque-Cachamuiña-gs1wd]

@@normanseagull4027 If you like to live near the sea, there are two different areas, the "Rias Baixas", better climate, less rugged and with many Spanish tourists in summer and the "Rias Altas" worse climate, more rugged and less crowded. The "rias" are river valleys flooded by the sea. The interior of Galicia is very unpopulated, there is a beautiful area called the "Ribera Sacra" which is the valley of the Sil River, where there are various monasteries and wine cellars, there is also the mountain of Lugo, a beautiful area but with harsh winters. . In any case, it all depends on what you are looking for, inland, coast, cities, small towns, mountains, river valleys, highly populated areas or areas with almost no population and with many small abandoned villages.

[@microfarming8583]

Marbella is the place to be for me. Best restaurants and climate

[@colinp8988]

looking to move just west of Torrevieja , urbanization called Villamartin , has everything I need and a nice slow pace to it.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Someone else mentioned Villamartin to me, sounds like a great place

[@MikeS29]

Very interesting. Having just visited both areas in July to evaluate for my ultimate move, I did like Benidorm more than I expected I would, but I do love Malaga city. I was less enamored with Fuengirola than anticipated, but I liked Benalmadena and Torremolinos. I also like the proximity of Benidorm to Alicante, and I got an instant vibe in Alicante as a nice place to settle. As a dual U.S. and Italian citizen, having the freedom to settle anywhere in the EU is exciting. Thanks for giving your take on the two areas.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

It's a tough decision. Malaga is a wonderful city, it's still one of my favorites in Europe. My one issue with Malaga is that it is quite small for the amount of people passing through the centre. It's great as a tourist, but I found I visited less and less the longer I lived in the region. A lot of North Americans have settled in and around Alicante, I have heard so many great things about the area. Good luck with making your selection.

[@trut52]

I personally think Malaga city is a little nicer than Alicante city but that in itself shouldn't matter that much. The costa blanca is an amazing place to live

[@MikeS29]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel we settled on Torremolinos, in a quieter, more residential area, still walkable to the center and beach, slightly closer to Benalmadena Arroyo de la Miel on foot than to Torremolinos center.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

@@MikeS29 That's fantastic, congratulations!

[@danielahowells]

LOVVE LOVE LOVE Benidorm. Spent 4 months there during 2 trips in 2012. Can't wait to return for another 3 month trip

[@OS-xx6nq]

Have been on both coasts several times. Costa Blanca actually has more hot summers than Costa del Sol, but what make it worse is humidity (dew point), which makes you feel like you're being slow cooled. Agree with the rest, Spain is a beautiful country and anyone will find the place that they would enjoy. Good luck and keep making your videos, they are useful and fun.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thank you. You are right about the humidity, it's been a hot and humid August here.

[@spaniencoachen]

Which Costa is more humid?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

@@spaniencoachen the Costa Blanca is more humid, currently it's 66% in Alicante and 47% in Malaga

[@spaniencoachen]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel thanks for your quick answer! I always thought it was more humid in the Costa del Sol because of their tropical climate.

[@GH-ov1lj]

Been on both and definitely this. Been to Playa Flamenca my share of times as well as Fuengirola and good lord the oven of the Costa Blanca is something else, there's so much heat stored in the adjacent sea up around there compared to down near the straits plus no incoming breeze comparable to the Costa Del Sol.

[@stephs17]

Interesting, I started in Alicante but moved to Fuengirola. I found Alicante to be nice but prefer Fuengirola. I instantly knew that Malaga/Fuengirola was my place. I'm glad you found your place.

[@KK-tv2id]

We’re trying to figure out which coast we would prefer. In your opinion, what makes the Costa del Sol better (for you) then the Costa Blanca?

[@KK-tv2id]

Fellow Canadian here (Winnipeg, Edmonton, Kingston, Ottawa and now Montreal/Mont Tremblant). We’re a retired military couple (late 40’s and early 50’s like you guys) and we’re looking for our own Spanish escape. We don’t know which coast we would prefer either so we will try both but as newbies, where would you recommend we start? We would like to try both coasts and stay in an area where it would be easy to walk and/or grab a train or bus to explore as much of each coast as possible. We’re really wanting to be there in winter as well so somewhere warm in the winters that is sunny with great beaches and shops and restaurants that are open year round with golf nearby would be our version of perfection. I know we can’t get it all but is there somewhere that comes to mind? Thank you in advance 😊

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Hi, sorry for the delayed response I missed your comment. I prefer the Alicante region but the Malaga area is great too. Basically if in the Malaga region anywhere from Malaga city to Fuengirola. The train ends in Fuengirola. If out in the Alicante area I would say anywhere between Alicante city and Benidorm. The tram ends in Benidorm but you can transfer to another one that goes out farther. Both places have great beaches and lots of shopping, cafes and restaurants. The Malaga area is probably a bit warmer in the winter. Here is my email if you have any other questions. [e-mail]

[@trut52]

@@KK-tv2idCanadians seem to prefer costa del sol. There was some Canadian blogger who wrote a pretty damning article on Alicante rating it a 1/5 and I guess that swayed the opinion of many. In reality I think it's definitely not as bad and also we don't have the water problems that Malaga area has. Fuengirola has no water from taps between midnight and 6 am currently. Costa Blanca is better because we have large desalination plants working to supply water. Quality of life is amazing in both places. There are amazing golf courses on the costs blanca and it's warm in winter. Most days this winter I went out wearing a light jumper or sometimes even in a t-shirt.

[@frankoveberg3859]

Benalmadena☝️🌞

[@TheAdventuresofMegGreg]

Congrats on your new move! How exciting! So nice to have more space. Good idea to rent for a year or two. Fantastic information about moving to Costa Blanca. Nice the town is a bit more bilingual there, that's helpful but also so cool you are working hard to improve your Spanish! Love that. Awesome video. What a beautiful place!

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks so much, appreciate it

[@teresanunezserrano5911]

Teresa Núñez Serrano para qué quede muy claro la lluvia es una maravilla para toda Andalucía ❤❤❤❤❤❤😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🇪🇦🇪🇦🇪🇦🇪🇦🇪🇦🇪🇦🇪🇦🇪🇦

[@alanmaloney2791]

Great video! We are a little behind you, considering costa del sol versus costa blanca. Great to hear your further comparisons of the two (e.g. housing, green spaces, tennis, "friendliness" etc.)...please keep them coming!

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks, more videos are coming. Good luck it's a hard decision to make. Both are great places

[@mohammedsharif2651]

Thank you for another informative video. Enjoy your adventure.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thank you

[@MikeNouraei]

Congrats on the move. Glad to see you found your spot. Benidorm felt too crowded, noisy, and somewhat not too safe to me and my wife. That’s why we chose Playa de San Juan. It’s just 8 kilometers out of Alicante and not too far from Benidorm either. Hope to connect and chat later this year…

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks. I guess safety is relative, coming from north America I find it quite safe compared to back home. We will be looking at all the surrounding areas when we get closer to buying. I would like to connect in the future, send me an email at [e-mail]

[@MikeNouraei]

definitely 😊

[@aileenoneill5619]

Noticed the dog poo problem in Estepona, couldn't believe how bad it was, normally holiday in Lanzarote where owners clean up after their pets.

[@tomfisher7751]

Im really happy you found the right place for you eventually! I wish you all the happiness in the world.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thank you very much.

[@frevebe7693]

We are from belgium and bought an apt in Benahavis (costa del sol). We went to costa blanca too, but there are much more things to do in costa del sol... Also in winter, the costa del soll is full of life... Costa blanca was mostly dead in the winter (Benidorm not).

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Benahavis is a beautiful spot.

[@georgecosta2185]

Congratulations ! I was planing in moving to the Malaga area but now I am focusing 🧘‍♀️ n Almeria

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thank you, good luck with your move

[@us4marine]

Fantastic video, good narrative and well explained, we’re in the move within a year or so, looking into around Malaga, Alicante and Benidorm. Thank you much. Take care. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks, good luck with your move

[@coopspur]

We love Fuengirola, it's been our family holiday home from home for a couple of decades. We've also spent time in Benidorm and it's really not for us, the cheap entertainment doesn't appeal, but each to their own. However, you are absolutely correct about value for money where accommodation is concerned. You could buy a nice two-bed in Costa Blanca, with a pool, for a price that wouldn't get you anything in Fuengi. Alicante is a superb city, we're considering somewhere like Guardamar for a retirement holiday home. Good luck and thanks for the videos, it's been great to follow your adventures.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks. I'm just renting in Benidorm. When the time comes to buy it will most likely be outside of Benidorm, but in the Alicante area.

[@kimballentyne3482]

Thanks for sharing.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks for watching!

[@jamestaylor8808]

Really good information. Nicely done.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thank you, glad you found it helpful

[@Budfrog23]

Just started subscribing - been to Alcante a few times, it's one of my favourite cities. Looking to have an extended holiday in the Autumn with a view to looking at some areas - would happily do a winter rental if the right place came up, we'll see. Good Luck!

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Alicante is a great region and still reasonable. Thanks for the sub

[@manfromutch]

We were there in Benidorm a month ago, probably walked passed you doing this video. . We love the Costa Blanca. Wife is an American, I'm a Brit Would love to retire there. Altea or Albir. would be where we would look to buy. I don't think there's anywhere in the world like Benidorm, we love it, but I'm not sold on living there. We have been going to Benidorm for 2 weeks for the last 12 years(except the covid lockdown period). Love all your videos I've watched and info you share. I also like your idea of renting first.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thank you, glad you are enjoying the videos. We really like living in Benidorm. It's been a great place to live and there is always something to do.

[@brucefellowes4848]

I really like Alicante city as it is less touristy than some of the other places like Benidorm and closer to the airport. It depends on what you are looking for. I don't go out to bars so prefer Alicante city. I don't want to live somwhere that is too small as I want all the shops, amenities and transport links.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

I am looking forward to exploring Alicante city and it's surrounding areas. I have heard a lot of good things from people who live there. I will renting for a couple years before buying.

[@irishman6124]

Is alicante very hilly walking around it ?

[@brucefellowes4848]

@@irishman6124 not hilly around the city but if you walk up to the Fort then there is a big hill climb. You can get the lift up from the Postiguet beach or us the Sightseeing bus drop off if you don't fancya hill climb.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

@@irishman6124 Alicante is not overly hilly

[@gregoryli8549]

Alicante is way better, classier, prettier, more Spanish. Benidorm: cheap thrill, cheap experience, ugly buildings. The buildings are cheaply built. Old town of Benidorm reminds me of Gaza Strip.

[@SettleinSpain]

Just found you through Lillian & Chris @talesfromthecaveside, like you we rented first for 2 years and moved once before eventually finding our home inland in the mountains. We haven't visited Benidorm yet so watched this with interest.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks for watching. Sounds like you have found your dream home, congratulations.

[@CasaAntigua78]

For 8 years I have lived north of Benidorm in a coastal town near Denia. For me, too much humidity and colder nights where I am. Also much hotter in the summer. Having lived near Marbella for 12 years I am now hoping to go back, but to Nerja this time. Lots of energy, superb festivals and incredibly friendly. A very, very pretty little town on the coast. Amazing for retirement in all aspects, in my opinion. Wherever you end up, my advice would be to also to rent for 6 months first if you don’t know the area. I’ve met a few people who wish that they had. Do you’re homework. Exhaust the KZbin channels. Lots of insight there. Im off on a recce again soon. Bon suerte

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Nerja is a wonderful spot. That's great advice

[@benmarshall5235]

Great video brother

[@goranradonjic2369]

Amazing, I wish I can live there with my family.

[@dino246gts]

thanks for the input, actually, i am kind of balancing the places where to stay for long time as foreigners, i started my research from Bilbao, and all the way down the south, stayed many cities, like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Malaga, Marbella, Fuengirola as well, and now I decided to narrow down my focus area to Costa Blanca, gradually feel the country, the city, and people...

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

That's a great way to do it. The Costa Blanca is a wonderful place

[@susanaescriba977]

Neither Madrid nor Barcelona are in the South.

[@Eris-sp6yt]

Valencia just hit a new heat record in Spain so it's not always cool up there but yeah Benidorm is a cool place bcos of its cool people :) Good luck!

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks. Yes it's definitely not cool at the moment, a lot of humidity too.

[@Miism737-pe2sw]

Thanks for much appreciated help indeed 👍👍👍

[@Miism737-pe2sw]

I am planning on visiting fuengirola between February and March was hoping to meet up with you and your wife planning on retirement there anyway good luck to you and have fun thanks

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks. That would have been great, good luck with your retirement move

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

If you are ever up this way, send me a message

[@Miism737-pe2sw]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel I will thanks

[@claudinegerard5]

We live currently in Denia, up on the costa blanca .it became a real ghetto for retired expats. Everything became very expensive, and to see old people everywhere is very depressing. We are considering moving to Galicia also, the weather is not as good, but people are more authentic.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Unfortunately it's happening in a lot of areas.

[@alanmillar5274]

I really like your vibe brother I’m 58 this month and considering retiring to Beni for at least part of the year, Edinburgh is too cold and I’m splitting with the wife, unfortunately 😢

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks. Sorry to hear that. Benidorm is a great place to live, good luck.

[@childasantrucek5115]

so great to see this video, I have been wondering whether I should move to Estepona or Altea, I hate humidity but don't mind heat and I've heard the humidity is way worse up from Alicante towards Barcelona?! Anyway I will definitely rent for a few months first before I decide to buy...enjoy your channel, thanks for all your interesting view points!

[@georgecosta2185]

Almeria is less humid

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thank you, it is definitely humid at the moment here in Benidorm.

[@AngieURIEN]

Which one is best for living between Javea and Altea ?? I like to move in a private area/ residential near by the white sand beach. Thanks for your video 🙏🏼🩷

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

That's a hard question. Both are great, I'd probably say Altea.

[@frankoveberg3859]

The best place around Fuengirola ,where you moved from ,is Benalmadena.its unike and very different areas,paloma park is beautiful. Benidorm very international and the night life,wow. and theres so much you can do ,tema parks etc. Albir is the place i prefer,close to Altea and Benidorm.😎

[@geraldinemcardle2418]

We in Guardamar on holiday hope to live here

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Enjoy your holiday

[@oab465]

I live in Fuengirola, in the Torreblanca area. Dog shit everywhere. I wont be moving though 😅. Please continue with vids

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Torreblanca is a beautiful area, I used to spend a lot of time down that way. I really enjoyed Fibbers pub.

[@blossomhill247]

So true! I live in Fuengirola, and there is dog shit everywhere. It’s like I am playing ‘walking hopscotch.’ Make sur3 your trousers and dress hems are not too long. I am also 63 years old … a very youthful 63! Night life is rubbish here, seems to happen more in Torremolinos. I don’t get much of a social life, therefore looking to move in a couple of years. I’ll be 65 then 🤫

[@thelolguy007]

There is nowhere for Entertainment like Benidorm. Amazing 👏

[@romansholiday1986]

How do you find the roach situation to be? We were a bit surprised by them in Valencia. We couldn’t cook a meal in our short term rental apartment without seeing one.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

That's surprising to hear. I never had a problem with them in any of the places I lived.

[@brianagaddes]

Awesome video!

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks!

[@trut52]

In Torrevieja they have a person on a scooter who goes around and picks up the dog litter. Truth be told the owners got a little lazy here but thankfully the government took care of the problem.

[@gemablanquer91]

No matter where you move in...Spain is an excellent country, btw very unknown by most US citizens here in the States...💝

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

I agree, it's a great place to live no matter where you are at

[@elinskumpettersen5676]

We have bought an appartment in Albir. We love Costa blanca. 😃

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Beautiful spot

[@jounipohjolainen2687]

In my opinion, Benidorm is a British party town. Give it a year before you praise it too much. I do not find the dog poop a problem in Fuengirola, but yes I have seen it.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

There is definitely a party scene here. We don't live in that end of town, we are about 15 minutes away from there. We do enjoy the shows though. There is a lot more to Benidorm than just that area of course.

[@aljohn6803]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravelwhich is the party town area ?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

@@aljohn6803 it is in the new town calle Gerona is the main area. It's only a few blocks

[@davidholgate123]

That's the beauty of Benidorm, it has that aspect but there's also lots more to do, so you can make it what you want... On one day, you can go to the old town for a quiet drink and tapas or the next day, you can go to the British new town area to see bands, shows and party... I used to be snobby about Benidorm but now I love it.

[@dividenddepot]

My wife is hesitant to move to southern Spain for the winter months as the weather is not quite warm enough compared to Florida or Mexico. What has been your actual experience on the ground. I'm assuming its to cool to do much swimming unless the pool is heated?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Hi, it is definitely cooler in the winter compared to Mexico. The Malaga region is a few degrees warmer then the Alicante region. Overnight and early in the morning it can get cold, there were a few days were I had to put on gloves. In Malaga you can still go to the beach for most of the winter as the temperature will be in the low 20s in the afternoon, but not too many people are in the water.

[@dividenddepot]

Thanks for the reply. Sounds like the Malaga area would make sense, what months does it start to cool down and then warm up again typically? @@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel

[@henq]

@@dividenddepot Well, the sea water temperature in the Costa del Sol is actually colder because of the atlantic inflow around Gibraltar. In summer, in Marbella / Fuengirola, the sea water reaches 21C max. In Alicante / mid-Spain region, the summer sea water temps can go easily to 26C+ !

[@WilliamStoneman-sw4wl]

What about wealth tax ? Zero in Andalusia but 0.2 to 3.5 per cent in Benidorm (Valencia region).

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

We took that into consideration.

[@WilliamStoneman-sw4wl]

Ok.

[@aljohn6803]

Agree with this .. sadly it’s a nonstarter for me. Hopefully other regions will follow Andalusia

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

@@aljohn6803 it would be nice if they followed Andalucia

[@WilliamStoneman-sw4wl]

I am attracted to Andalusia for this reason. Anyone else ?

[@nica1]

Love your informative content. We are coming to Costa Blanca next month . Do you think it's necessary to rent a car if we want to go and see Benidorm and the Calpe area, or is there a train from Alicante to Benidorm (We will be staying in the city of Alicante). We'd love to eventually move to Spain and get away from the way our govt is managing Canada. Greetings from a fellow Canadian.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Hi, thank you. You don't need a car, there is a train and also a bus. But it would make it easier to get around both sides of Benidorm and out to Calpe. Not sure if you know, but you will need an international license, you can get one at your local CAA for about $25 I definitely agree the country changed very fast. Good luck with your future plans moving to Spain.

[@nica1]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel thank you so much for the reply. Keep up the great work. I look forward to more videos on your experiences in Spain :)

[@ExplorerOfTheGalaxy]

Alicante has bullfighting on streets which sucks.. nonetheless it's a great country

[@janicegarciacucharero-od5xe]

Ill be moving out to spain soon to Mazarron, what are your opinions on that area? Thanks for the very informative videos 👍

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

I have never been to Mazarron, but I hear it's a great place. Expats seem to love it there. Thanks for watching

[@BorjaCamacho-n4w]

Thanks for the video! My girlfriend and I are currently living in Rincón de la Victoria (Málaga) where there are many people over 60. We are 28 y/o, can you let us know how if there are many expats our age living in Alicante? We are looking to move either to Torremolinos, Benalmádena or Alicante. We were considering Fuengirola as an option but after watching this video we realized it's not the best choice :)

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thanks for watching. The Costa del Sol is full of older North American, UK and northern European expats. The Alicante area has a younger feel to it, a better mix of ages, definitely more people in their 40s along the Costa Blanca.

[@sylwiaciszewska1934]

Go to Calpe next city to Benidorm.

[@ornellad.3989]

I also live in Fuengirola, I have a nice apartment here but because of the airbnb rentals in my community I would like to buy a small house with a Private pool. It is impossibile to buy a plot here and if you find one far away from the sea, it costs more than 300 hundreds, very steep and you must build on 3 floors. I am also thinking to have a look in the costa blanca, it should be cheaper. Here you buy an old house, that you must refurbish completely for 800 000 upwards, and you still have an old house. Besides I find the costa del sol overbuilt and the sea water is cold and the people is very bad educated...dogs crap all over the place.

[@spaniencoachen]

What about mosquitoes on the two costas? Mosquitoes looove me.. I need an area with minimal of them.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

A lot of people complain about mosquitoes on both Costas, but I have not had any problems here in Spain. Although back in Canada they used to eat me alive.

[@gregoryli8549]

they are here

[@blazingchris5048]

Indeed ! The Costa del Sol is overcrowded !!! Bestter in the Costa Blanca

[@paultimlin2310]

Nice one mate. I hope you enjoy living next to all us Brits?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

They sure know how to have a good time

[@SycAamore]

Nice video! We were in Fuengirola with the kids last year in July and we found it quite good except for the beaches around the center. They were all massively packed, which was a major turnoff for us. I don't think we'll be visiting Fuengirola any time soon. How is it in Benidorm? This year we were in Valencia, in Port Saplaya, and we had one of the most peaceful vacations, with almost no people on the beach during the week! We loved it! Btw, I'm soon turning 46, the same age as you🙂

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Thank you. The beaches in Benidorm are busy at the moment. But August is the month the Spanish head to the coast for vacation and there are lots of tourists from France and Italy at the here. In September everything goes back to normal we are told. I have not been to Valencia, but it is on the list. Are you planning on moving over at some point?

[@SycAamore]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel Yes, my plan is to move with my family. The only problem is that my current employer here in London won't allow me (yet) to WFH from abroad. But that may change. Life here in Britain is becoming so rubbish, even for higher earners like me. A damp 3-bedroom shoebox house would cost you around £500,000...The whole quality of life here has become so low compared to even countries in Eastern Europe. Anyway, you mentioned that you plan to buy your property at some point. Do you also consider buying off-plan? Will you be looking for a house or apartment?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

@@SycAamore hopefully you get the opportunity to move over. It's a similar situation in Canada, maybe not as bad , but it's getting there. I will probably not buy off plan. I would like to buy a house, but we are really open to anything. My wife would love to have a garden.

[@barryoneill-ec9zz]

Hi, I remember you when you where in Fuingirola, I’m from Boston, been in Estepona for a year, it’s impossible to get any rentals here at all, Just been checking out Denia Benidorm, and watched your post Thanks, I think I should move up there,? How hard is it to Rent?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Hi, yes I remember speaking to you in the comment section. I heard Denia is great. I haven't been there yet. There are lots of available rentals all over the Costa Blanca. The Costa del Sol is becoming very crowded and getting pricey from what I hear. Definitely worth taking a trip up here to check things out

[@barryoneill-ec9zz]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel Thank You Sir, Glad you remembered me, Yea The Costa del Sol is getting crowded, property prices are going thru the roof here, I’ve been to Almeria? But it’s not for me, Been in a hotel for months, decided this morning to head up to the Costa Blanca and see will I have any luck, Best Regards.

[@JoDelaney]

Sounds like a great decision 👌🏽

[@paulfrancis8764]

I’ve never been to Benners

[@Realworldnews247]

I’m looking to move from costa del sol to Torrevieja too, much cheaper

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

We like the Costa Blanca quite a bit more than the Costa del Sol.

[@Realworldnews247]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravelyeah I’ve found a house in punta prima half the price of my house I’m going to sell up I think

[@frankoveberg3859]

The best beach in valenciaregion! valencia city,big and very varm water.poniente benidorm,alicante,calpe,javea,gandia.😎

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

There are some fantastic beaches in the region

[@sdnalyam]

Any websites to find apartments . I would like to go down during the winter, October till March to check it out.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Idealista is probably the best website

[@daverichards308]

What did you end up paying for rent in Benidorm? Down in the Costa del Sol rents are getting ridiculous. And property prices even in the smaller towns is almost out of hand.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

The CDS is getting really expensive. In Benidorm, our apartment is 1250 euros. There is an apartment tour video on the channel if you want to see the place.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Here is the link to the apartment tour. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqCXfJ5jobZ9bNE

[@daverichards308]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel That's not bad, Was seriously thinking about either Torrevieja, Villajoyosa or the Benidorm area. I did find though that Orihuela, La Zenia and that area are kind of dirty, Benidorm looks like it's cleaned itself up. And there is a ton to do there.

[@Miism737-pe2sw]

Can you tell me if you can how much a lawyer charges I know it's a package deal,however,it will give me a general idea thanks planning on meeting the lady lawyer whpm you interviewed between February and March thanks from Florida

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Hi, when I started my process it was 750 euros. It has probably gone up a bit overtime. But that should give you a ballpark number. They are very nice and good at what they do. I highly recommend them.

[@dividenddepot]

Curious about taxes, we are also Canadian with pension and investment income. Any advice on what to expect, no plans on getting permanent residency, just Visa renewals.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

I don't file my first Spanish tax return until May/June of this year. Here are a couple of things I have come across. The taxes are generally higher in Spain. Spain will tax your global income (except public pensions), including property sales abroad. Andalucia has removed the wealth tax, but it remains in most of the country. I will be using a tax professional in Spain to file my taxes.

[@dividenddepot]

Am I reading it correctly that even if you are there on a Visa, as long as you stay less than 183 days you don't need to file taxes in Spain?@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

@@dividenddepot yes that is correct, you only become a tax resident after 183 days. But on the NLV, I believe you can only be out of Spain for 10 months over a 5 year period.

[@dividenddepot]

Interesting, that would be a hurdle for sure. Sounds like limiting stays to 90 days might be best for our personal situation. Thanks@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel

[@CLH-2]

@theemptymiddleseattravel I was researching the areas of Malaga versus Alicante and one of the reasons I had rolled out Alicante or anything north of it was due to the fact that my American Social security (once I hit that age) and all retirement investments would be taxed at the Spanish rate versus American. And then on top of that there is a wealth tax. So I was trying to avoid additional taxation so that I would have more money to live on. Thoughts of how to get around any of this? Thanks! This is my first video that I've seen of yours. I love how you just talk as if you're just talking to us. And I noticed you actually reply to messages! Thanks!!! @TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel

[@danielwinter380]

Is it cooler on the CB than the CDS during Winter?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

It is cooler on the Costa Blanca during winter

[@danielwinter380]

Thank you

[@gerardmackay8909]

According to Spanish met office figures average winter highs for Alicante and Malaga are virtually identical but Alicante is slightly more ‘continental’ in that it has the occasional burst of winter heat but conversely the occasional cold snap which doesn’t occur on the south coast. Apparently Almeria is the only city of over 100,000 people in the whole of Europe to have never recorded an air frost.

[@andersstreifeldt2990]

Same with me, better vibrations in Benidorm and Costa Blanca, Fuengirola had some strange vibes i think.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Yes, we like Benidorm quite a lot

[@Kitiwake]

Isn't there an annual property tax in Spain?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Yes, I haven't purchased yet, still renting

[@JonM-ts7os]

Ive been on the CDS for 5 years and have to say with the exception of Malaga and Fuengi central its pretty dead most of the year around especially for younger expats/foreigners.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Yes definitely it was shocking how everything just closes on a certain date.

[@reallifewithlora]

What are average prices on rentals for apartments?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

They start as low as 650-700. An average two bed that's nicely done will run about 800-900. You can get a really nice large apartment or townhouse for 1000-1200. Typically the farther you head away from the centre the price will drop.

[@georgecosta2185]

Also you have tons of English spoken people specially from the U.K.

[@amGausss]

Imagine that occurring in your country with people who speak another language ? You would be like : they should integrate, learn our language and culture, bla bla bla, yet when you go to another country you think you’re special because your country used to be the biggest genocides and colonizers in the history ?

[@steveward4432]

Anyone know where the best 50m pool and tennis/fitness are

[@teresagregory622]

I was disappointed you didn’t say how much you paid for your apartment.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

@@teresagregory622 in Los Boliches I paid 700 euros a month, in Benidorm the rent is 1250 euros a month

[@michaeldetvay646]

How much is the rent on your new apartment ?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

1250 euros/mo I have an apartment tour video on the channel if you want to see what it's like.

[@sinceresong9907]

Is it not unbearable in terms of tourism levels

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

A lot of the coast is quite busy during high season, but it tapers off after September

[@cecylasilvestre]

Bravo 🎉

[@jasonsweb1]

go to algar falls

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

It's on the list, I have heard a lot of great things about the falls

[@jasonsweb1]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel pick the hottest day you can.the water is co co cold

[@milhouse147]

Are You sure the age of the people in Benidorm is matching Yours? I'm 41 and I was there some months ago and only saw "old people". Very much white hair everywhere around me. 😅 I am searching for the best place to emigrate, because I hate my country. Check out Calpe and Moraira north from You. It's very beautiful.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

There are people in their 40s50s there. Might depend where you are going , neighborhood. Calpe is beautiful. It's definitely a great place to live.

[@lexij4740]

Good shoice

[@ecaterinamatcov4374]

How much cost the rent for a month?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

It ranges, you can get a 1 bedroom starting at 600 euros and goes up. On average you can get a 2 bedroom for 800-900 euros. 3 bedrooms from 900-1500

[@ZeeZeeCat]

It never stops to amaze me how people find sand and flat, barren land attractive. O.o I would feel like in a desert! Forests, lakes and mountains sorounded by green hills, that's something! The only region I would like to visit in Spain is the north.

[@ps-dn7ce]

useful

[@iah1]

Good to know about the better situation with dog poo in Costablanca. Never heard this mentioned before. BTW Spain has a bad reputation on general for animal rights.

[@joaquincastello6174]

What ?. Are you serious ?. The spaniards are among the most civilized people when it comes to animal rights. Where are you from , by the way?. It´s funny the topics about Spain , flamenco music , even if you are in Bilbao , vigo , barcelona or Valencia (it´s like hearing bagpipes in Alabama), flamenco music is just in the south of Spain and the other topic is when you hear ex-pats to call an inmigrant... Now with the Brexit there is no ex-pats anymore.

[@RaymondLonis]

Why don't you ever give a monetary figure for your cost of living, especially rental prices? I've watched two videos now, where you talk about your apartment, but never tell how much it costs?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

Hi, I have two videos covering the cost of the apartment the first being "Spanish Apartment Tour" the other being "Cost of Living" My apartment on the costa del sol was 700 euros/mo in Benidorm it's 1250/mo.

[@turns2ashes]

Why would you move to Spain and settle in a tourist hotspot? I would have thought you’d want to live somewhere more Spanish so to speak?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

The Benidorm area is Spanish. The tourist area is really only a few blocks in the new town. The Finestrst, LA Cala, old town all very Spanish. If you have seen the news, a lot of Spanish people do not want us there. There's protests and attacks on tourists across the country. That's not all of the Spanish people, though. Some love having us here. So I'm glad I did not move to a completely Spanish town.

[@turns2ashes]

⁠yeah I was just worried about it being too touristy if that makes sense. We are thinking of moving to Alicante area.

[@GruenerGummistiefel]

What is a expat ?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

It is a person who lives outside their native country.

[@mymaserati100stock4]

Do you see lots of people smoking there?

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

There are quite a few smokers, but no more than other European cities.

[@jurgita_4832]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel that's a strange and misleading reply. How many European cities have you been to? There are really many smokers in Spain, and in Benidorm. The worst part is that the awful smell of cannabis is felt everywhere on streets. More smokers I have seen only in Türkiye, Italy and in Balkan countries.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

​@@jurgita_4832I have been to about 25 European cities. I have not smelled cannabis that much at all. Cannabis is much more prevalent in North America.

[@x-man8466]

Costa Blanca sounds more practical. But in terms of natural beauty, nothing can match Costa del Sol

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

The Costa del Sol is definitely more green and lush.

[@KeyTrust_es]

Dont promot we having enough tourist here 😀😀

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

😂

[@lexij4740]

Costa blanca is really nice

[@ecaterinamatcov4374]

Hi,

[@livingalpujarras]

And a good place to party with the brits. 😊

[@jonmaher2531]

If Benidorm doesn't work out, you could consider moving directly to the UK. LOL Just kidding, but it just doesn't seem to offer much of an authentic Spanish feel.

[@CUNDUNDO]

Big cities , large population centers and large populations in general are horrible.people think it is this glamorous lifestyle full of excitement and fun. It is really paying a fortune for a shoe box and groceries. Homeless people and trash everywhere because so many get left behind.I Prefer the countryside 10x.

[@whimsicalhamster88]

You need to live somewhere with less sun, not more.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

I did, I lived in Canada and the weather was horrible

[@whimsicalhamster88]

@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel Then build yourself a sunscreen shower in your doorway :D

[@susancarmichael5624]

Russian mafia?? 😂

[@upnorth77]

They keep the shitheads in check around here

[@jurgita_4832]

Benidorm - the second ugliest city of Spain.

[@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel]

You are entitled to your opinion, I would disagree

[@upnorth77]

Have you been to Fuengirola, disaster

[@niemand123]

Nah, Almeria twice as ugly. Dog crap and graffity everywhere.

[@scienceownsimposters2142]

Mallorca blows this place out of the water lol....

[@upnorth77]

I'll be sure to avoid Mallorca because of people like you. Rude comment

[@susannelarsen8089]

Do not support the Whorter parks ,with the ANIMALS .....