Originally from Bucharest, Romania, Radu’s journey to Spain took a detour through the UK, where he lived for 11 years after moving there in 2010 to study business management at university.

So, what drew him to sunny Spain?

Family first

“It was a combination of starting a family and not liking the way the UK lifestyle and cost of living were evolving,” says Radu. “I wanted somewhere not too far from home, with good weather – the UK weather was depressing!”

As for moving back to Romania? Radu explained that although it would have been nice to be closer to his mother with the new baby, he didn’t miss the cold winters and the traffic-jammed streets of Bucharest.

Spain ticked many boxes for him and his wife, particularly when they discovered how affordable private nursery fees were compared to the UK. They also admired the child-friendly culture of Spain.

Radu and his family made the big move in August 2022, leaving behind Kent for a life closer to the beach. Now based in Manilva, Costa del Sol, Radu works in cybersecurity, a fully remote role that made the transition a little smoother. Radu’s wife also has some family members living in Spain who moved from the UK over 15 years ago. It’s nice to have some fellow expats nearby who are family.

Adjusting to life in Spain

Although he’s enjoying the sunshine and scenery, Radu admits there have been some challenges in adapting to the Spanish way of life. “The people are friendly and easygoing, but they can also be a little slow in getting things done – not very proactive,” he explains. “Spanish bureaucracy is a nightmare; too much pen and paper, and you need an appointment for everything!”

Despite these hurdles, there’s much to love. “I enjoy living within walking distance to the beach,” Radu says, adding that the relaxed lifestyle allows his wife to stay at home with their daughter without the need for two full-time incomes.

Making connections and learning the Spanish language

Radu’s social circle spans multiple nationalities, including friends from Moldova, Romania, Bulgaria, Latvia, and the UK.

Speaking Spanish? “I’m not very confident yet,” he admits. “But both Spanish and Romanian are Latin languages, so I can understand a lot – I just can’t speak it on a conversational level yet.”

Looking to the future

While Spain is now home, Radu hasn’t ruled out the idea of living elsewhere in Europe someday. “In the future, I’d be open to living in other European countries, perhaps Italy. The food, wine, culture, and architecture there are all nice.”

For now, though, Radu is soaking up the Spanish sun and enjoying a more balanced family life by the sea.