Why British Expats Flock To Spain?

Spain has been attracting Britons of all ages since the 1960's. The diverse country consists of mainland, coastal resorts and islands that attract thousands of holiday makers in search of a relaxing summer holiday of sun and fun. Now, like never before Spain has become the most popular destination choice for Brits on holiday and expats looking for a new life style. The close proximity to the UK, combined with low cost regular flights make it easier than ever for Brits to visit Spain.

The country has always been a mecca for British tourists due to it's low prices, hot mediterranean summers, mild winters and masses of bars, restaurants and hotels that provide entertainment day and night. Areas such as Benidorm in the Costa Blanca region has seen a dramatic increase in visitors since the showing of the popular TV comedy of the same name staring Jonny Vegas. In 2012 The Spanish Tourist Board reported 11 million Brits traveling to Spain, which is up by 9.2% from 2010.

Spain and it's many vibrant islands such as Ibiza and Tenerife are a haven for miserable Brits desperate to escape the dreary wet weather back home. The Spanish coastal resorts such as Costa de Valencoa and the Costa Blanca provide miles of golden, sandy beaches, stunning scenery and an oasis of bars, restaurants and hotels for entertainment. Many older people are attracted to Spain due to it's good weather, relaxing slow pace of life and fairly reasonable prices. Younger people flock in droves to the islands of Ibiza and Menorca for party time in the sun. Spain has some of the best nightlife in the world, with Ibiza attracting world famous DJ's and celebrities all year round.

In addition to tropical summer temperatures and low prices, many Brits are attracted to Spain because of the wide variety of entertainment provided. Spain has more bars than any other country and the cities, islands and coastal resorts all offer numerous shows, cabarets, disco's and karaoke's to entertain the thousand of British visitors that come every year.

Although more popular in the summer months, Spain and it's islands are a year long destination with many Brits taking advantage of the mild winters for a much needed break from the cold, bleak UK weather. The canary Islands especially are very popular in the winter months with many retired Brits buying homes over there. The mountainous regions of mainland Spain are also popular ski-resorts for Brits seeking winter fun.

Spain caters for all tastes and interests, with cities in the mainland such as Barcelona and Valencia attracting thousands of British tourists seeking culture and history. The cities are home to numerous museums, art galleries, shops, bars and restaurants that offer something for everyone. Many of the coastal resorts offer tourists a choice of traditional Spanish restaurants or for those less adventurous there are also many take away joints and cafe bars where holiday makers can get traditional English food, fish and chips, burgers and kebabs! Spain has a wide mix of culinary delights to suit all individuals. It is not difficult to find a restaurant or pub in Spain serving a Sunday lunch or all day English breakfast. For some visitors to the Spanish resorts, this is what they want from a Spanish holiday, a mini Britain in the sun!

In addition to an increase in tourists, more Brits are now becoming interested in buying property in Spain for either a holiday home or a permanent home for a new life in the sun. Since the economic crisis in 2008, many Spanish property prices have dramatically fallen, allowing more Brits to buy their dream home in the sun.

Comprising of mainland Spain, coastal resorts, Canary Islands and The Balearic Islands, Spain has one of the most diverse landscapes and climates in Europe. Northern Spain is home to some stunning scenery and vast mountainous areas. The coastal towns such as Costa de la Luz offer pretty, quaint villages, long stretches of golden sands, rugged coves, and olive fields. This resort is a windsurfers mecca with all resorts offering a wide range of water sport activities for the more energetic British tourists. Tenerife in the canary Islands boasts all year round warm temperatures that rarely go below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The stunning scenery around the resorts in Tenerife attract visitors from all over the world. The island is home to Proc del Teide mountain which at 3,719 metres is the highest mountain in Spain.

Whether it be the weather, entertainment, cheap prices or the scenery it seems like us Brits can not get enough of Spain. The diversity of the country makes sure there is something to appeal to all types of people, 365 days a year.

Fun facts about Spain - Did you Know:

1) Spain is one of the top 3 most visited countries in the world, with British tourists making up the highest numbers.

2) Spain has over 8000km of stunning beaches for visitors to relax, sunbathe, swim and take part in various water sports.

3) On the island of Ibiza, tourists are reported to spend more than 1400 million euros every year.

4) The name Spain comes from 'Ispania' which translates to 'the land of rabbits'.

5) Spain has a population of over 47,000,000.

6) Spain is fives times bigger than the UK but only has two thirds of the population.

7) Bull fighting is a traditional sport in Spain, dating back thousands of years and a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike.

8) Over 52 million tourists visit Spain each year, with more than a fifth of these been British.

9) In 2011 there were 5.7 million foreigners living in Spain, including many British ex-pats who have left the UK for a better quality of life in the sun.

10) Tipping is not popular in Spain and most waiters are usually happy with a few coins.

If you're interested in finding our more about moving to Spain, who better than expats already living in Spain! See our roundup of interviews with expats in Spain or our list of Spain expat blogs.

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