Spainfully Honest

Epizodai

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  Episode 63: Spanish Visa Mistakes & Myths 06.10.2026 25min

  Thinking about moving to Spain and feeling slightly overwhelmed by the paperwork? You’re definitely not alone.In this episode of Spainfully Honest, we’re joined by Alba Fernandez, a sworn translator who specialises in Spanish visas and immigration documents.Alba takes us through some of the most common mistakes people make when preparing their visa applications, from getting documents legalised incorrectly to ordering translations they don’t actually need. We also talk about document validity, police certificates, bank statements and why leaving everything until the last minute can cause serious problems.We also clear up some of the confusion around sworn, certified and notarised translations, and look at some of the visa advice doing the rounds online that isn’t necessarily as straightforward as it sounds.And importantly, Alba explains where the role of a sworn translator ends. While they can help make sure your documents are correctly translated, they cannot decide whether you are eligible for a particular Spanish visa or immigration route.If you would like to contact Alba directly here are the details:Alba Fernández CarrascoSworn English-Spanish TranslatorEmail: [email protected] / WhatsApp: +34 645 654 998Website: https://www.sworntranslationspain.comIf you enjoy the episode, don't forget to subscribe and share it with someone who is thinking about moving to Spain or already calls Spain home.Here is our referral link for Lobster: ⁠Referral | Lobster⁠And finally here is the link to our Facebook Group! ⁠⁠⁠⁠(2) Spainfully Honest Community | Facebook⁠⁠Thank you for listening!
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  Episode 62: Autumn in Spain: Food, Festivals, Weather and More 29.09.2026 58min

  Autumn doesn't always mean crisp mornings and jumpers in Spain. In many parts of the country, September and October can still feel very much like summer, while the evenings start to cool down and the seasons slowly change.In this episode of Spainfully Honest, we talk about what autumn is really like in Spain, based on our own experiences of more than 50 years of living here between us.We also talk about some of the dates to remember during the autumn, including Spain's National Day, All Saints' Day, Constitution Day and the Immaculate Conception.So if you're wondering what happens in Spain once the summer crowds start to disappear, come along with us as we head from beach days and chiringuitos towards chestnuts, stews and the first signs of winter.No hype, no horror stories for clicks. Just our honest experiences of life in Spain.If you enjoy the episode, don't forget to subscribe and share it with someone who is thinking about moving to Spain or already calls Spain home.The movies that Catherine spoke about are: The Baztán Trilogy — The Invisible Guardian, The Legacy of the Bones, and Offering to the Storm. And they are available on Netflix.Here are some previous episodes that might interest you:Episode 60: Emergencies in Spain: Everything You Need to KnowBonus Episode: DANA Alice Storm in SpainEpisode 19: Winter in SpainEpisode 20: Weekly Grocery Shopping Spain v UKEpisode 18: Halloween in SpainHere is our referral link for Lobster: Referral | LobsterAnd finally here is the link to our Facebook Group! ⁠⁠⁠(2) Spainfully Honest Community | Facebook⁠
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  Episode 61: Spanish bureaucracy explained: An ex-immigration officer answers your questions 22.09.2026 35min

  This week on Spainfully Honest we're talking to Claudia, a former immigration officer and founder of The Expat Suite, who shares her insider knowledge on Spanish immigration, visas and some of the paperwork that comes with living in Spain.We get into some of the questions that regularly come up for expats, including the difference between an NIE and a TIE, whether you can apply for an NIE before your visa is approved, and what happens if your visa or residency situation changes.Claudia also explains some of the everyday admin that can leave you scratching your head, from digital certificates and Cl@ve to empadronamiento, the volante and the padrón certificate.We also look at some of the residence options that can be applied for from Spain, including routes for highly qualified professionals, digital nomads and entrepreneurs, and talk about what “administrative silence” actually means.And because living in Spain isn't just about getting the paperwork sorted, we chat about learning the language, integrating and avoiding the isolation that can come with living somewhere without feeling fully connected to it.There are plenty of practical tips in this one, for people thinking about moving to Spain, who are in the middle of the process or who have been here for years and are still trying to work out what piece of paper you actually need.Reach out to Claudia at The Expat Suite if you would like more informationSome previous episodes that you might be interested in that we mention in this episode:Episode 38: Spanish Visa OptionsEpisode 32: Digital Certificates and Signatures in SpainEpisode 31: The Padrón in Spain ExplainedEpisode 30: TIE Renewal in Spain: A Practical GuideHere is the link to the Spainfully Honest Community on Facebook: ⁠⁠(2) Spainfully Honest Community | Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠And here is the referral link for Lobster: ⁠⁠Referral | Lobster⁠⁠Thank you so much for listening to Spainfully Honest!If you enjoyed the episode, make sure you hit subscribe and follow us on socials so you don’t miss what’s coming next.Or if you’ve got a story to share, a guest suggestion, or just want to say hi, you can always email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]
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  Episode 60: Emergencies in Spain: Everything You Need to Know 15.09.2026 1val 3min

  What would you do if your phone suddenly warned you about a flood? What happens if a wildfire gets close to your home? And do you actually know what to do during an earthquake?In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Catherine and Paul look at some of the main emergencies you might face while living in or visiting Spain, from DANAs and flash floods to wildfires, extreme heat and earthquakes.They talk through what the warnings mean, what you should do if an emergency happens near you, how to prepare your home and family, and where to find reliable information when things start to go wrong.Make a note of the official emergency and weather services mentioned in the episode and use them as your first port of call during an emergency.112 is the emergency number across Spain.For weather warnings, check AEMET, Spain's national weather service, and pay attention to official warnings from your regional emergency services and local authorities.Check out the resources used to make this episode by joining the Spainfully Honest communityHere is the link to the Spainfully Honest Community on Facebook: ⁠(2) Spainfully Honest Community | Facebook⁠And here is the referral link for Lobster: ⁠Referral | Lobster⁠Here are some follow up episodes you might be interested in:Episode 55: Heatwaves in Spain: Everyday Life in Intense HeatBonus Episode: DANA Alice Storm in SpainThank you so much for listening to Spainfully Honest!If you enjoyed the episode, make sure you hit subscribe and follow us on socials so you don’t miss what’s coming next.Or if you’ve got a story to share, a guest suggestion, or just want to say hi, you can always email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]
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  Episode 59: Renovating a Property in Spain 08.09.2026 51min

  Thinking about buying a property in Spain that needs a bit of work? Or perhaps you've already got the keys and suddenly realised that renovating in Spain can be overwhelming...In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Catherine and Paul share their own experiences of renovating and refurbishing properties in Spain, from finding materials and tradespeople to trying to explain exactly what you want when you're dealing with a language barrier.They chat about the importance of planning before picking up a hammer, where to find materials and reliable local trades, and why being able to communicate clearly can make all the difference when you're trying to turn your ideas into reality.They also look at the things that can catch you out, including managing work remotely, understanding Spanish building styles and materials, making decisions about everything from tiles and flooring to kitchen units, and knowing when to save money by doing something yourself.And, because this is Spainfully Honest, there are a few lessons learned along the way, including what happens when you don't quite agree with a tradesperson's approach and why sometimes you need to politely but firmly push back.Whether you're planning a full renovation, doing up a holiday home or just tackling a few jobs around your Spanish property, there are plenty of practical tips to take away.Here is the link to the furniture episode they think you might like: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4bMmv1FZWV4HOznYExpT4N?si=mvEX71MDQeOl3obaFrep6wHere is the link to the Spainfully Honest Community on Facebook: (2) Spainfully Honest Community | FacebookAnd finally here is the referral link for Lobster: Referral | LobsterThank you so much for listening to Spainfully Honest!If you enjoyed the episode, make sure you hit subscribe and follow us on socials so you don’t miss what’s coming next.Or if you’ve got a story to share, a guest suggestion, or just want to say hi, you can always email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]
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  Episode 58: Setting Up a Physiotherapy Business in Spain 25.08.2026 34min

  This week on Spainfully Honest, we're talking about something a lot of people who move to Spain think about at some point: setting up your own business.We're joined by Stuart Diamond from Diamond Health and Fitness, who has been living in Spain for years. Paul has known Stu for much of that time, so there was plenty to chat about!We start by going back to the beginning and finding out what Stu was doing before Spain, why he decided to make the move and how he ended up building his life and career here.Then we get into the practical side of setting up a business in Spain. How much paperwork is involved? Did Stu do it all himself or get professional help? And what is it actually like running a business here?Stu also tells us more about Diamond Health and Fitness, the services he offers and what he has planned for the future.And, as always, we finish with some advice. If you're thinking about moving to Spain and setting up your own business, what is the one thing Stu thinks you really need to know?In this episode, we chat about:Stu's life before Spain and why he decided to move hereSetting up a business in SpainThe paperwork and practical side of getting startedWhether you should do it yourself or get professional helpDiamond Health and Fitness and the services Stu offersHis plans for the futureHis top piece of advice for anyone thinking about setting up a business in SpainIt's a really interesting chat about what goes on behind the scenes when you decide to build a business and a life in Spain.Check out the episode about being self-employed in Spain here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1l3wduGJdFql7dY2HJkQnU?si=uTEeOUdjRj2lsn7M2IqeowThanks for listening, and we'll see you next time on⁠⁠ Spainfully Honest.Don't forget to follow along, subscribe or even leave us a review! Thank you!
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  Episode 57: Driving in Spain: Roundabouts, Rules and Road Rage 11.08.2026 42min

  In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Catherine and Paul get behind the wheel to talk about what it’s actually like to drive in Spain, the habits, customs and little differences that you start to notice when you're used to driving somewhere else.We look at some of the rules of the road that might be different from what you're used to, the unwritten bits of Spanish driving culture, and why the experience of being on the road here can feel quite different.We also get into road rage. Or perhaps more accurately, the apparent lack of it. Is Spanish driving really less confrontational, or do we just experience it differently?And then there are roundabouts.The Spanish roundabout debate has been going on for as long as many of us can remember, with plenty of different opinions about lanes, exits and who should be where. But Paul reckons he's finally cracked them — and he's ready to explain his theory.So whether you've been driving in Spain for years or you're still getting used to how things work on the road, join us for a look at one of those everyday parts of life in Spain that can be surprisingly interesting.In this episode:What driving in Spain is really likeSpanish driving habits and customsRoad rules that may be different from what you're used toThe unwritten differences you notice when driving in SpainWhy road rage can feel quite different hereHow we react to the driving habits we're not used toAnd, of course, the infamous Spanish roundabout debatePaul reveals why he thinks he has finally cracked the roundabouts🚗 Have you cracked Spanish roundabouts — or do you have your own theory?Want Paul’s roundabout diagram?Paul has actually gone one step further and drawn a diagram to explain his theory of Spanish roundabouts. If you'd like to see it, or if you have your own thoughts, questions or experiences of driving in Spain, we'd love to hear from you.📧 Email us at [email protected] if you're dealing with the paperwork side of driving in Spain, don't miss Episode 34, where we talked about getting or renewing a Spanish driving licence.That episode is for foreigners who already have a driving licence from another country and need to get a Spanish one, as well as anyone with a Spanish licence that needs renewing.https://open.spotify.com/episode/5xMVAOnzugWLQVjozoYFgu?si=OGhMoHWcTJGenBcfxAIupgThanks for listening, and we'll see you next time on⁠ Spainfully Honest.
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  Episode 56: Spain's Property Market in 2026 28.07.2026 34min

  Buying a property in Spain is a big decision, and with prices continuing to rise in many parts of the country, it's never been more important to understand what's happening in the market before taking the plunge.In this episode of Spainfully Honest, we're joined by Fiona James from Murcia Villas, who gives us an honest look (like this might be the most Spainfully Honest episode yet!!) at Spain's property market in 2026. We talk about why prices in Murcia have climbed by around 7% in the last six months, whether buyers should act now or wait, and what the outlook is for the months ahead.We also look at the practical side of buying a home in Spain, from mortgages and deposits for non-residents to taxes, legal costs and the hidden expenses that can catch buyers out. Fiona explains why no two regions are the same and why taking the time to research where you want to live can be just as important as choosing the property itself.Whether you're looking for a holiday home, planning a permanent move or considering an investment, this episode is packed with straightforward advice to help you make informed decisions.We cover:Why property prices are continuing to rise in Murcia and other parts of Spain.Whether now is the right time to buy.New builds versus resale properties.The differences between Murcia, the Costa Blanca, the Costa del Sol and other popular regions.Mortgages for non-residents and how much deposit you'll usually need.Purchase taxes and the additional costs buyers should budget for.Common mistakes buyers make and how to avoid them.What life in Spain is really like, including some of the cultural differences that often surprise newcomers.Episode Chapters:00:00 – Introduction01:08 – Murcia's property market and rising prices02:31 – Buy now or wait?03:35 – Viewing properties in Spain04:43 – New builds versus resale homes07:05 – Which areas offer the best value?08:21 – Airports, travel and location14:15 – Mortgages for non-residents16:33 – Deposits and buying costs19:57 – Taxes and legal fees26:47 – Where to start your property search30:24 – The Spanish lifestyle and the siesta33:33 – Fiona's top tips for buyersIf you've been thinking about buying in Spain, this is an episode well worth listening to. Fiona shares plenty of practical advice based on years of experience, and it's a great starting point if you're trying to get your head around the Spanish property market.If you enjoy the podcast, don't forget to subscribe, leave us a review and share the episode with anyone who's thinking about making the move to Spain.Here is Fiona's previous episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/79fA8kbSwoF4aUGMkOPgHE?si=jhMzuw93QMSZ9muerEv0jQ (It was an early one and getting used to podcasting : ) )And some other episodes you might like:Episode 53: Top 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Moving to SpainEpisode 51: Interview-Moving from Colorado to the Costa BlancaThanks for listening, and we'll see you next time on Spainfully Honest.
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  Episode 55: Heatwaves in Spain: Everyday Life in Intense Heat 14.07.2026 49min

  Spain's summers have always been hot, but in recent years the heat has become more intense, lasting longer and affecting everyday life in ways many people don't expect.In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Catherine and Paul talk about what it's really like living through a Spanish heatwave. They share the routines they've adopted over the years, from keeping the house cool and sleeping on hot, humid nights to knowing when it's safe to head outside and why many Spanish people completely change their daily schedule during periods of extreme heat.The conversation also discusses how different parts of Spain experience the heat and whether air conditioning is always the answer.In this episodeHow daily life changes during a heatwaveKeeping your home cool without relying on air conditioningMaking the most of shutters, fans and natural ventilationCoping with hot, humid nightsChoosing the best times of day to be outdoorsWhy Spanish summers revolve around avoiding the midday heatPractical tips for driving and travelling in extreme temperaturesThe difference between inland and coastal heatHow Spain's summers are changingEditor's note: During the episode, we mention temperatures of around 52°C. This refers to land surface temperature measured by satellite, not the official air temperature. Land surfaces such as roads, rocks and rooftops can become much hotter than the surrounding air. The highest official air temperature recorded during the late June 2026 heatwave was 42.9°C, measured in Lleida on 22 June 2026, according to Spain's meteorological agency, AEMET.Here are links to some of the episodes we mentioned:Episode 16: Unmissable Spanish Property & Furniture Tips: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4bMmv1FZWV4HOznYExpT4N?si=mvEX71MDQeOl3obaFrep6wEpisode 49: What Summer in Spain Is Really Like: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4FVZrpjdcRZq7V6NUSl7f8?si=V7yIjoqbSUmJCJ7QMiNcDwHere is a link to the PAPS end of summer ball event so you can support them! (9) If in the area why not join us - Support Abandoned Dogs/PAPS in Spain | FacebookAs always thanks for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, make sure you hit subscribe and follow us on socials so you don’t miss what’s coming next.And if you want to keep the conversation going, come and join our Discord community here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/wTGrjpVQh⁠⁠⁠⁠ — it’s where we all hang out, swap stories, and chat all things Spain.Or if you’ve got a story to share, a guest suggestion, or just want to say hi, you can always email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected] With UsWebsite: ⁠⁠⁠Spainfully Honest⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠Spainfully Honest⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠Spainfully Honest⁠⁠
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  Episode 54: Pets in Spain 07.07.2026 1val

  Thinking about bringing a pet to Spain, or already sharing your Spanish adventure with a furry friend? In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Catherine and Paul take a practical look at Spain's animal welfare laws and what they mean for pet owners.From the legal requirements for transporting pets to Spain to everyday responsibilities such as identification, safety, and healthcare, they break down the rules in plain English. The conversation also explores how attitudes towards animal welfare have changed in Spain in recent years and why pet owners need to stay informed to avoid costly fines.The pair discuss important safety considerations for Spain's climate, including the dangers of leaving pets in vehicles, protecting animals during periods of extreme heat, and ensuring dogs and cats remain safe both at home and outdoors. They also cover regulations surrounding potentially dangerous dog breeds, pet insurance, veterinary care, and adoption.Whether you're relocating to Spain with a pet, considering adopting an animal, or just want to understand your legal responsibilities as an owner, this episode offers practical advice to help keep both you and your pet on the right side of the law!If you've enjoyed the podcast, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with friends or family who are interested in life in Spain.Connect With UsWebsite: ⁠⁠Spainfully Honest⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠Spainfully Honest⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠Spainfully Honest⁠⁠Thank you for being part of our first year. Here's to many more honest conversations about life in Spain.
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  Episode 53: Top 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Moving to Spain 30.06.2026 48min

  Thinking about moving to Spain? Before you start browsing property websites, booking flights, or dreaming about life in the sunshine, there are some important questions worth asking yourself.In this week's episode of Spainfully Honest, Catherine and Paul look at five key questions that can help you decide whether moving to Spain is the right move for you. From choosing the right town or city to understanding language barriers, schools, transport links and employment opportunities, this episode discusses some of the practical realities that can have a big impact on your experience once you arrive. The episode looks at why managing expectations is so important and why taking the time to research an area properly can save a lot of stress further down the line.Whether you're planning a move in the near future or are weighing up your options, this episode offers practical insights to help you decide whether a particular area – and life in Spain itself – is the right fit for you.Here is the link to the episode we mentioned - the interview with Carol and Patrick from Colorado who moved to the Costa Blanca: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5L3B58D8hZx06Op7UEUbjn?si=_84a5tobRQ-bcmYpK1QNtAIf you've enjoyed the podcast, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with friends or family who are interested in life in Spain.Connect With UsWebsite: ⁠Spainfully Honest⁠Facebook: ⁠Spainfully Honest⁠Instagram: ⁠Spainfully Honest⁠Thank you for being part of our first year. Here's to many more honest conversations about life in Spain.
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  Episode 52: Celebrating One Year of Spainfully Honest 23.06.2026 36min

  This week, Catherine and Paul celebrate a full year of the Spainfully Honest podcast.Over the past 12 months, they've shared honest conversations about the realities of moving to Spain, buying property, the education system, and settling into a new life abroad. Along the way, they've discussed Spanish culture, traditions, local events, and the everyday experiences that make life in Spain both rewarding and occasionally challenging.In this special anniversary episode, they look back at some of their favourite moments, discuss lessons learned from a year behind the microphone, and reflect on the topics that have resonated most with listeners.Whether you're planning a move to Spain, already living here, or simply curious about Spanish life, this episode offers a look back at the conversations that have helped build a growing community of listeners from around the world.If you've enjoyed the podcast, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with friends or family who are interested in life in Spain.Connect With UsWebsite: Spainfully HonestFacebook: Spainfully HonestInstagram: Spainfully HonestThank you for being part of our first year. Here's to many more honest conversations about life in Spain.
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  Episode 51: Interview-Moving from Colorado to the Costa Blanca 16.06.2026 1val 3min

  What is it like to retire, pack up your life in Colorado, and move to the Alicante Province during a pandemic?This week in Spainfully Honest, we talk with Patrick and Carol, an American couple who did exactly that four years ago. Now living in Finestrat, they share what it has really been like to adapt to life on the Costa Blanca.They talk about the practical side of their move, from the difficulties of getting a Spanish driving license to how the healthcare system compares to the US. They also share what they have learned about everyday life here, including how local pharmacies work, Spanish banking hours, and how they built a community.If you are planning a move to Spain, Patrick and Carol offer great practical advice from their last four years here.As always thanks for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, make sure you hit subscribe and follow us on socials so you don’t miss what’s coming next.And if you want to keep the conversation going, come and join our Discord community here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/wTGrjpVQh⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — it’s where we all hang out, swap stories, and chat all things Spain.Or if you’ve got a story to share, a guest suggestion, or just want to say hi, you can always email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠
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  Episode 50: Why Spain? Expats Share Their Honest Answers 09.06.2026 1val 14min

  Over the past few months, we've been asking expats/immigrants across Spain a range of questions about their lives here, from why they decided to move and where they chose to settle, to what they miss most about home.In this special episode of Spainfully Honest, we're sharing their answers.We hear from people living in different parts of Spain, all with their own reasons for making the move. Of course, we couldn't resist asking a few fun questions too. From favourite tapas and Spanish dishes to the wines they keep coming back to, our listeners share some of the things they love most about living here.The result is an honest and interesting snapshot of expat life in Spain today, told by the people living it every day. Whether you've already made the move, are planning your own Spanish adventure, or simply enjoy hearing other people's stories, there's plenty to discover in this episode.Some episodes we discussed during this one:Cartagena: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1xmHizlj6R82drqQ5kYOnY?si=ylG9Qee3R9iTrBpn2c-ovgSantander:https://open.spotify.com/episode/7Bri6YKiwkI6o0vvuOMYsE?si=6iaPBQhGQE--SC04a8T0wgZaragozahttps://open.spotify.com/episode/1ffnfobK7MObgmBLwJ01R2?si=mdxDN-4jR0-eqIPXQFN_pgBarcelona: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2iAjMuVeANkLcYq1LzUqbk?si=T_HfDsBqSquhctscImR1bAMalagahttps://open.spotify.com/episode/1w9T7oEgCYOZZmGWfHuNFi?si=qmhtldk4TRCU9sd2qegWkAAs always thanks for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, make sure you hit subscribe and follow us on socials so you don’t miss what’s coming next.And if you want to keep the conversation going, come and join our Discord community here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/wTGrjpVQh⁠⁠⁠⁠ — it’s where we all hang out, swap stories, and chat all things Spain.Or if you’ve got a story to share, a guest suggestion, or just want to say hi, you can always email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠
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  Episode 49: What Summer in Spain Is Really Like 02.06.2026 58min

  Summer in Spain is often pictured as endless sunshine, beach days and long, relaxed evenings — but what’s it actually like when you live here day to day?In this episode of Spainfully Honest, hosts Paul and Catherine take a practical and personal look at Spanish summer life, from school routines and changing daily schedules to beach culture, food, and how people adapt to the intense heat.This is an honest conversation about the realities behind the postcard version of summer in Spain — what works beautifully, what takes some getting used to, and the small differences that shape everyday life during the hottest months of the year.In this episode, we cover:How school schedules change from June to September (including early finish times)What summer holidays look like in Spain and how routines shiftBeach life, chiringuitos, and coastal livingTraditional Spanish summer food and light dishes for hot weatherHow restaurants, meal times and daily habits adapt to the heatWhat it’s really like dining out in summerLife at the beach: setups, culture and social habitsDrinks and refreshment culture (including Catherine's favourites like clara con limón)How people adapt homes and daily routines to extreme heatCooling techniques and coping strategies during heatwavesThe challenges of sleeping and living comfortably in high temperaturesPersonal reflections on loving (and sometimes struggling with) Spanish summersAs always thanks for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, make sure you hit subscribe and follow us on socials so you don’t miss what’s coming next.And if you want to keep the conversation going, come and join our Discord community here: ⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/wTGrjpVQh⁠⁠⁠ — it’s where we all hang out, swap stories, and chat all things Spain.Or if you’ve got a story to share, a guest suggestion, or just want to say hi, you can always email us at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]
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  Episode 48: Renting in Spain (What it's really like!) 26.05.2026 50min

  In this episode of Spainfully Honest, we’re joined once again by returning guest Hamilton, a real estate professional based in Málaga, to break down one of the biggest concerns for anyone moving to Spain — renting.Whether you’re relocating, planning a long-term stay, or already on the ground trying to find somewhere to live, this episode pulls back the curtain on what the rental market is really like across Spain.Hamilton shares honest, practical insights from working directly in the industry, including what renters should realistically expect, how the process differs from other countries, and the common mistakes people make when they first arrive.We also dive into the less comfortable side of renting in Spain — including scams, red flags to watch out for, and how to protect yourself when searching online or dealing with landlords and agents. In this episode, we cover:What the rental process in Spain actually looks likeHow demand and pricing are affecting availabilityThe most common mistakes newcomers makeScams and fake listings — and how to spot them earlyWhat landlords and agents are really looking for in tenantsTips for securing a rental when you’ve just arrived in SpainIf you would like to contact Hamilton for more information about properties in Malaga, he was kind enough to give us his email: [email protected] you enjoyed the episode, make sure you hit subscribe and follow us on socials so you don’t miss what’s coming next.And if you want to keep the conversation going, come and join our Discord community here: ⁠https://discord.gg/wTGrjpVQh⁠ — it’s where we all hang out, swap stories, and chat all things Spain.Or if you’ve got a story to share, a guest suggestion, or just want to say hi, you can always email us at ⁠[email protected]
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  Episode 47: The Truth About Being Self-Employed in Spain 19.05.2026 57min

  Thinking about becoming self-employed in Spain? The reality of being an autónomo in Spain is often very different from what people expect.In this episode of Spainfully Honest, we take an honest look at what it’s really like to be self-employed in Spain, beyond the social media version of flexible lifestyles and working in the sun.Drawing from their own experiences after years of being self-employed in Spain, Catherine and Paul speak honestly about the realities that many people are not prepared for when working for themselves abroad.They cover the practical side of setting up as an autónomo in Spain, including self-employed taxes in Spain, monthly autónomo fees, paperwork, registration requirements, social security contributions, invoicing, grants and the benefits of hiring a gestor in Spain.But this conversation goes much deeper than forms and finances.They also talk about the emotional reality of freelance life in SpainIf you have ever searched:“How to become self-employed in Spain”“Cost of being autónomo in Spain”“Living in Spain as a freelancer”“Freelance taxes Spain”“Is being self-employed in Spain worth it?”“Do I need a gestor in Spain?”“Moving to Spain and working for yourself”— then this episode is for you.Whether you are already running a business in Spain, freelancing remotely, considering moving abroad, or just curious about the reality of self-employment in Spain, this episode offers a realistic, relatable and honest conversation about the experience behind the paperwork.As always thanks for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, make sure you hit subscribe and follow us on socials so you don’t miss what’s coming next.And if you want to keep the conversation going, come and join our Discord community here: ⁠⁠https://discord.gg/wTGrjpVQh⁠⁠ — it’s where we all hang out, swap stories, and chat all things Spain.Or if you’ve got a story to share, a guest suggestion, or just want to say hi, you can always email us at ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Here are the episodes discussed in this episode that might be of interest:Episode 41 Social Security in Spain: https://open.spotify.com/episode/18naj7SW1O8egqyMVGNkWI?si=-9cRlu1-TJCd_AasZMk1IAEpisode 38: Spanish Visa Options: https://open.spotify.com/episode/47o8ehefc8BKm5FMEyRe08?si=of7U9X0yT6q-uv6ERqC00wEpisode 30: TIE Renewal in Spain: A Practical Guide: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7LNfDl0dOK0WMloqeMnKQl?si=YeiaK_CURnOCREwmNKwq7AEpisode 31: The Padrón in Spain Explainedhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/7qYc8bTTmS1gL6DuCkdc55?si=fTImtws1Qh2UDF062qvt5wEpisode 32: Digital Certificates and Signatures in Spainhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/4eRvzHJsJXte4RLfis9ZrS?si=96HtawgwTM-hTrmq-BE9mQHere are the details of Catherine's gestor who are not sponsors of the podcast just a company Catherine has worked with for years and recommends them:www.asesoriaolivan.comAvenida Emilio Castelar, 97 – BajoSan Pedro del Pinatar30740 – Murcia – España Telf. 968 18 65 56
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  Episode 46: Málaga City Tour 12.05.2026 22min

  In this week’s episode of the Spainfully Honest podcast, we wrap up our city tour series for now with a wander through one of southern Spain’s most popular and fast-changing cities: Málaga.Paul, who lived and worked here, provides insider tips on how to make the most of a short visit. From top attractions like the Gibralfaro viewpoint and Picasso Museum to local dining spots, discover how to experience Malaga efficiently and affordably!As always thanks for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, make sure you hit subscribe and follow us on socials so you don’t miss what’s coming next.And if you want to keep the conversation going, come and join our Discord community here: ⁠https://discord.gg/wTGrjpVQh⁠ — it’s where we all hang out, swap stories, and chat all things Spain.Or if you’ve got a story to share, a guest suggestion, or just want to say hi, you can always email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠
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  Episode 45: Interview-Moving from the USA to Malaga 05.05.2026 38min

  In this episode of Spainfully Honest, we sit down with a guest originally from Atlanta, USA, who now calls Malaga home. He shares his journey from the States to Spain and how what started as a move abroad turned into building a life in Malaga City!We talk through how he ended up settling in Malaga, what the transition was really like, and how day-to-day life compares to what he left behind in the US. From culture shifts to lifestyle differences, it’s an honest look at what it takes to start again in a new country.As he now works with Remax in Malaga, we also get into the property side of things, including insights into different neighbourhoods, where people tend to rent or buy, and what areas might suit different lifestyles depending on what you’re looking for.If you would like to contact Hamilton for more information about properties in Malaga he was kind enough to give us his email: [email protected] check:Quick note from us: we often keep the conversation natural and conversational in the episode, and then fact-check or clarify details afterwards in the show notes so everything is accurate. Note: In Spain, tenants on standard residential rental contracts can generally terminate a lease after six months with proper notice, but this may not apply in the same way to temporary or seasonal contracts. Deposit returns also depend on the condition of the property, outstanding payments, and any valid contractual clauses.As always thanks for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, make sure you hit subscribe and follow us on socials so you don’t miss what’s coming next.And if you want to keep the conversation going, come and join our Discord community here: https://discord.gg/wTGrjpVQh — it’s where we all hang out, swap stories, and chat all things Spain.Or if you’ve got a story to share, a guest suggestion, or just want to say hi, you can always email us at [email protected]
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  Episode 44: Barcelona City Tour 28.04.2026 22min

  This week on Spainfully Honest we’re talking about Barcelona, a city that always has a bit of everything going on. History, food, beach life, culture… it’s one of those places that can feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand the layout and rhythm of it, it all starts to make sense.This is a guide you can listen to before you go, or while you’re actually there, to help you get your bearings and decide what’s worth your time.We go through the main areas, what the city feels like day to day, and some of the things that make Barcelona so different from other European cities. We also touch on traditions like Sant Jordi, which really shows another side of the city beyond the usual sightseeing spots.If you’re planning a trip, a few of the things we mention that might be useful:Getting around the city: Hola BarcelonaCity sightseeing buses: barcelonabusturistic.catA great spot for food / brunch: Brunch & CakeEmail Paul and Catherine at [email protected] Follow us on social media pleeaasse!⁠⁠(3) Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠(15) Facebook⁠⁠And as always thank you for listening!!