After decades of hard work, it is only fair that we seek out a private slice of paradise to retire in. Rocking in a Macramé hammock in the Caribbean breeze for a while sounds dreamy. But if you are anything like us, you’ll probably get itchy feet in about a week.
So, what do you suggest?
Have you heard of Alicante, Spain?
Alicante is the capital city of its namesake province that stretches over 120 miles of the Mediterranean coastline in the southeast of Spain. It runs from Denia in the north to Almeria in the south.
Its glistening white beaches, fondly referred to as Costa Blanca, attract vacationers from all over the world. Completely enamored with the Mediterranean climate and lifestyle, they look for ways to stay or retire in Alicante. And affordable prices seal the deal. But don’t just take our word for it. InterNations, the largest expat community, surveyed its members to find the world’s best cities to live in. Four Spanish cities made the top 10, and Alicante was the runner-up. And here is why people want to retire in Spain.
5 Reasons to Retire in Alicante
Perfect Mediterranean Climate
Alicante’s main appeal is the perfect climate that graces the region approximately 320 days a year. The coast benefits from year-round sunshine, with only a few weeks of rain interspersed throughout the year. With spring-like winters, mild summers, and a constant supply of sunshine, it’s hard to imagine having a bad day. You will have all the motivation you need to spend time outside and be greeted with the smiles of equally happy residents.
Well Connected & Easy to Get Around
If the distance scares you, rest assured that when living in Alicante, you remain well connected with the rest of the world. Alicante’s airport is Spain’s fifth largest. Daily flights will either connect you with your friends and family or have you exploring the rest of Europe thanks to affordable budget airlines. Alicante also has a cruise terminal, so that’s another way you can entice your seafaring loved ones to visit you. And the extensive train and ferry network will keep you connected with the rest of the country for getaways any time you please.
Variety of Places to Choose From
You are spoiled with affordable options when picking where to live in Alicante since you are not limited to just the capital. The Alicante province is large and varied, which adds the bonus of maintaining peace and quiet in your paradise bubble and not getting disturbed by holidaymakers during the busy season.
The Mediterranean coast is peppered with towns big and small that share equally stunning beaches but a completely different vibe. Fancy small-town suburbia lifestyle – Altea. Penthouse and forever-holiday atmosphere – Benidorm. Quaint Spanish charm – Alicante. And so much more. If anything, making a choice may feel overwhelming. So, we recommend doing your homework and spending some time renting in your top destinations along the coast before committing to one.
Expat Communities
Life in Alicante is constantly bubbling, and social life is a huge aspect of local culture. Residents and visitors alike enjoy sea views while strolling along the promenade, sunbathing on award-winning beaches, and exchanging positive energy. Anywhere you go, you see groups speaking a different language. While tourists come and go, the foreign residents that make up 25% of the provincial population create tight-knit communities. So, as a newcomer, you can find a support group and avoid feeling homesick.
In turn, large international communities bring a ton of dining options. From Michelin Star restaurants to various popular cuisines, like Indian, Italian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern, just to name a few. As a result, your taste buds will never get bored, and you will enjoy picking your favorite places to socialize.
Because of international tourism and expat communities, the English language is very widespread. However, if you plan to retire in more quaint parts of the region, you should pick up some conversational Spanish. Integrating with the locals will make living in Alicante even more enjoyable. Learn some basics, unlock insider tips and valuable recommendations and create meaningful connections.
Plenty of Entertainment
You have all the time in the world. Luckily, there are plenty of things to do in Alicante, Spain to keep you entertained. So now is the time to dust off any passions you’ve been putting away or new activities you’ve been putting off trying. Feel the rhythm in Flamenco classes. Take up learning Spanish. Try your hand at cooking. Or test your sea legs on board a sailing tour.
The city of Alicante is big enough not to get bored and yet small enough to be able to walk everywhere. Staying active along the promenade, exploring Casco Historico, and treating your taste buds to new international flavors will keep you occupied in the city. The availability of large shopping malls will satisfy needs. And visiting well-organized local markets will be an adventure of its own when picking up the freshest produce in each designated stall for your culinary experiments. And foodies can splurge on the year-round Mediterranean fare and visit nearby wineries.
Retreating to glistening beaches for sunbathing or sunset watching will become part of the weekly routine. Golf fanatics will be pleased to learn about the 15 perfectly manicured golf courses in and around Alicante. And outdoorsy types will love exploring hiking trails in the region. If you ever find yourself missing the cold, plan a skiing trip to Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, located just four hours away.
The pastime options become endless when you take into account that the rest of Europe is within easy reach. Having spent time along the Costa Blanca, we understand what all the hype is about. Would you retire in Spain in the beautiful town of Alicante.
Pro tip: Be sure to connect with the Spain expat community on Facebook to learn more about the area, make connections, and for general information about living in Alicante. We recommend you join a private group like Expats Alicante. We have found that these groups are very willing to answer general questions about vendors in the area, activities, and even housing questions. So, reach out and make some new friends before you arrive!
If you have questions we didn’t answer in this post, feel free to drop them in the comments below!
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