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Relocation to Benalmadena Story of Trevor & Ann-Marie

Published on 22 Dec 2024

More than a year into their new life in Spain, Trevor & Ann-Marie feel now much more settled and belonging to the local community. The main challenge for them was finding a social group – read how they solved it…


Where are you from and why did you decide to move to Spain?

We are from Woking in Surrey, England. We decided to move to Spain as we have had a timeshare in Benalmadena and know the area well. We retired early due to Trevor suffering from long covid and was struggling to work to his normal high standards.

When did you move & where in Spain did you settle? Did you move on your own or as a family?

We moved to Benalmadena in September 2023. We moved as a couple, leaving the rest of our family in the UK.

Did you use professional help for the immigration procedures and/or any relocation services?

We used Irina for our immigration procedures. She was excellent and clearly explained each part of the move in great detail. We decided to do our own property search as we know the area so well. But Irina pointed us in the right direction if when had any issues.

How difficult was it to find your first home and do you still live in the same place? 

We initially looked at properties to buy but decided not to commit to this and assess where we wanted to live long term. We then looked at long term rental. We initially struggled to find anywhere, especially anywhere whose owner was willing to put us on the Padron. Eventually we found a great apartment whose owners allowed us to use the address for the Padron. Unfortunately, we could only get a 10 month contract as they use the apartment in the height of summer. Friends have let us use their apartment for the 2 months of July and August. We are back in the original apartment with another 10 month contract. Next Spring we will look to find a property with a long term contract in the same area.

What is your occupation in Spain? Has it changed compared to what you did in your home country?

We are both retired but I coach athletics (unpaid) at Malaga Atletismo Malaga

How integrated do you feel into the local community and lifestyle?

We have tried to integrate into the local community. We are both learning Spanish. I shop mainly in local shops rather than supermarkets and try to converse in Spanish. We attend a music bar where they only speak Spanish, and we now feel part of the furniture. Coaching athletics with youngsters really makes me feel that I am giving something to the area. I am also organising a weekly Junior Park Run next month which will definitely assist with our integration.

Do you have any regrets about your move to Spain and/or miss anything from your home country? 

We have no regrets about our move. We miss our family, but not enough to move back to the UK.

What was the main advantage and the main challenge you experienced with moving to Spain?

The main advantage with moving to Spain was the effect that the weather and lifestyle has had on our general wellbeing. The biggest challenge was finding a social group. We have overcome this, with Ann-Marie joining a Ladies Coffee/Lunch group and also a Walking group. I have joined a Golf Society and a Walking Football group. I also have the athletics coaching.

Any advice you would like to give to those considering or in the process of moving to Spain

Contact an expert like Irina when looking at immigration procedures. We have heard all sorts of bad advice and information being bandied around since we have been here. Others have questioned how come we have managed to sort our paperwork so quickly. Short answer is always – IRINA. We wouldn't have had such a stressless move without her.

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