Moving to Extremadura
Moving to Extremadura – Go wild in the country
Ups
Ask the average Brit to locate Extremadura on the map and they’ll struggle like a blindfolded, disorientated child trying to pin the tail on the donkey at a birthday party. This is pioneer country for relocators. Are you man/woman enough to take the plunge?
Downs
Given its name, it comes as little surprise to discover this south-west Spanish region’s a land of extremes. In summer, you could fry an egg by merely cracking it. In winter, beware the frost’s bite.
In and out
Madrid’s the nearest airport. By old country road, the journey was a torturous seven hours. That’s down to two and half to three depending on where you want to settle in the province. And all thanks to the newish motorway.
Education
International schools are conspicuous by their absence in one of Spain’s most Iberian regions. Have faith in the state-school system which, despite the credit-crunch-causing cuts, will ensure your children obtain at least proficiency in one subject. And that subject will be Spanish.
Shop until you drop…
Despite Extremadura being more about its mighty oaks and mountains high, there are cities. Cáceres is the second largest with a mere 95,000 inhabitants and given its Middle-Ages vibe, you half expect the barter economy to still be in place. Check out its Wednesday market which boasts 500+ stalls and a whole lot of bargains.
Property types
If you want property with plenty of land, Extremadura’s your place. Bear in mind, however, that the cheaper properties will require a lot of work. They may have not been renovated for generations, if at all.
Market watch
One-three bedroom apartments, €10,000-€200,000. Detached Villas, €20,000-€1,000,000. Country fincas €15,000-€400,000.
In Praise Of
“Extremadura doesn’t appeal to many expats because it doesn’t offer the cultural home comforts of more anglicized parts of Spain – but for others, that’s the reason we’re here.” Sue Sharpe (The Hidden Spain Blog – A Letter from Extremadura)
• Are you an expat in Extremadura? What do you like/dislike about it? Let us know below.
Matthew Hirtes, our resident broadsheet journalist, moved to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria back in 2004. He’s travelled extensively through Spain, covering it for such publications as Telegraph Travel, Metro, and The Independent. The author of Going Local in Gran Canaria: How To Turn a Holiday Destination into a Home, Matthew truly is a resident expert.
Matthew writes for two sections of Spain Buddy: Moving to Spain and Spanish Football as well as providing Reviews
