Title: My Digital Nomad Life in Spain: A Tale of Work, Culture, and Paella!
Hola, fellow nomads! Noah Smith here, writing to you from a sun-drenched café in the heart of Madrid. For the past year, I’ve been living and working remotely in Spain, and it’s been an adventure like no other. If you’re considering the nomadic life in Spain, here’s everything you need to know.
First up, the cost of living. Spain, compared to other European countries, is considerably affordable. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs around €700-€900 per month. Eating out is reasonable too – a meal will set you back about €10-€15, and a cup of café con leche costs around €2. But remember, the cost can vary depending on the city. Madrid and Barcelona are more expensive than Valencia or Seville. However, even in the pricier cities, the cost of living is still lower than in cities like London or Paris.
Now, let’s talk about workspaces. Spain is teeming with coworking spaces that cater to all needs and budgets. My favourite is the Impact Hub in Madrid, a vibrant space filled with creatives and entrepreneurs. The monthly membership cost is about €200, and it includes access to meeting rooms, a kitchen, and even a relaxation area. There are cheaper options too, like La Piscine in Barcelona, where you can rent a desk for as little as €80 per month.
Internet connectivity is vital for us digital nomads, and Spain doesn’t disappoint. The average broadband speed is around 100 Mbps, and it’s pretty consistent. Most cafes and coworking spaces provide free Wi-Fi, and it’s usually reliable. However, I would recommend getting a local SIM card with a good data plan as a backup.
The visa situation can be a bit tricky. If you’re an EU citizen, you’re good to go. If not, you’ll need a visa. The most common is the Schengen visa, which allows you to stay for up to 90 days. However, for a longer stay, you’ll need a non-lucrative residence visa. The process is quite lengthy and requires proof of financial means, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. So, plan ahead and contact the Spanish embassy in your home country for accurate information.
Living in Spain has been a dream come true. The laid-back lifestyle, the friendly people, and the rich culture are truly captivating. Plus, the weather is fantastic most of the year. I’ve spent my weekends exploring ancient castles, lounging on stunning beaches, and indulging in the famous tapas and paella. And let’s not forget the fiestas – they’re as colourful and vibrant as you’d imagine.
A few tips for my fellow nomads considering Spain:
• Learn some Spanish: While many Spaniards speak English, knowing some Spanish will make your life easier and enrich your experience. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with locals.
• Embrace the siesta: Spain operates on its own time, with a long lunch break in the afternoon, known as the siesta. Don’t be surprised if shops are closed during this time.
• Get out and explore: Spain is diverse, each region offering a unique experience. Make sure to visit different cities and regions.
• Public transport is your friend: It’s well-connected, reliable, and affordable. I’ve found it to be the best way to get around cities and even travel between them.
• Make use of digital platforms: Websites like Idealista and Spotahome can help you find accommodation, while Meetup and Internations are great for socializing and networking.
So, there you have it – my take on living and working remotely in Spain. It’s been a wild ride, filled with work, play, and a whole lot of churros. If you’re considering making the leap, I say go for it. Spain has a charm that’s hard to resist, and as a digital nomad, it offers everything you could possibly need. Until next time, hasta luego!