Expat Advice: Relationships in Costa del Sol, Spain

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

Costa del Sol

What is your current status? Are you single, dating, in a long-term relationship, married or divorced?

divorced

What is it like in your country of residence for someone with your relationship status (married/divorced/dating)? If you're single, how do you meet other people? Do English-speaking people tend to gravitate to certain parts of your city?

In my experience, your relationship status isn't as important as how your personality comes across..i.e. are you open to people in general..relaxed in casual impromptu chit chat which often leads into extended conversations..etc. I have some close friends now as a result of that and they are of varied relationships. It's important to build a base of acquaintences ..it's a good feeling to come across new acquaintances strolling the streets of a strange country and hear you name called with a warm hello! At first newcomers will feel more comfortable in an English speaking environment..some never explore beyond that. But then your new acquaintances, if you make them, will lead the way to off-the-tourist-track places.

What would be the best advice you could give someone with your relationship status that lives in your country of residence? Any other thoughts?

Without a doubt, the best move I made was research and enroll in a local language school to begin classes within a week of arrival. (I did even before I left the states). A good school gives you a basic indoctrination into your new counntry and locale.

1. You immediately connect with a group of people...you are no longer isolated...you have at the least, one personto share a coffee or drink or dinner...instant social life!
2. You have something to do..a place to go to everyday...that lost, lonely feeling and boredom disappears.
3. Very quickly..as you become familiar..even a little bit..with the language, signs..menus, etc. begins to make sense. Almost immediately, you can communicate in someway with the locals in shops..restaurants..bars, etc.