Pros and Cons of Living in Spain

"Some of the things that frustrated me are now what I appreciate. I enjoy the conversation I have with the people at the fruit store or the post office while I am waiting in line. I like the reliance on our own two feet and not using the car. I appreciate that the family is VERY important and everyone takes off Sunday to spend time with them," remarked one in Barcelona.

"Expats in Spain appreciate the laidback culture there, which allows people to take things slow and enjoy life. One of the most enjoyable aspects of Spanish culture for expats is the passion for food, with a wide selection of regional cuisines providing an array of flavors and experiences. Another popular aspect of the culture is the social life, which has plenty of fun events and lively nightlife. Furthermore, the Mediterranean climate, along with the beautiful beaches and stunning scenery, make the country an ideal place to live. Lastly, the locals' hospitable attitude towards foreigners makes expats instantly feel right at home in Spain," explained one expat.

"Understand their ways..... Just because is an industrialized country doesn't mean USA...," said one expat in Madrid.

"Expats in Spain often find the lack of punctuality to be a challenging issue. Many also struggle to adapt to the slower pace of life, as well as the strong importance placed on family and social relationships. Many also find it difficult to adjust to the strict gender roles in Spanish culture and the prevalence of machismo. Furthermore, the extensive paperwork and bureaucracy required for administrative tasks can be overwhelming. For some, the language barrier is also a challenge, as some parts of Spain have their own language, alongside the national language of Spanish," said a person living in Spain.