An Expat Talks about Living in Marbella, Spain

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Marbella

How long have you lived there?

2 years

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

The best way to find contacts and all information is to try the web sites www.marbellago.com; www.marbella.com and www.andalucia.org. Also local english language newspaper www.surinenglish.com.

In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

An extremely diverse population in all ways - nationality, religion, culture and economy. Play place of the wealthiest in Europe, but not far off in the country 'pueblos' there is till subsistance style farming. Increasing expat. resident population forms a significant percentage, but has been wholeheartedly accepted by the Spanish. There is little or no sign of antagonism against other nationalities, especially if the effort is made to speak Spanish.

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

The main expat. industries and indeeed the Spanish ones are all based on seasonal and residential tourism. All sectors of Real Estate are huge, plus hotels, restaurants, etc. Many individuals and company owners in N Europe are now operating from homes in the sun, either part or full-time. As a result there are opportunities for most construction, admin. and leisure based skills.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

Marbella is the international centre of the Costa del Sol, also called 'The California of Europe' because of its marvellous year round climate and 'Costa del Golf' due to their being a golf course round every corner! Very leisure orientated with the full range you can imagine (plus many more!). However, it still has its Spanish heart and style. The life of the Andalus is well known for its easy acceptance of everything. For them and many expats, life still revolves around the family.

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If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Start learning Spanish and applying the tan cream now! Visit for a short time first to confirm that year round sun and limitless leisure opportunites are for you! If you have a family, find the school place(s) first, then the home and the office and work location can come after.