f you know where to look, Spain continues to offer sound investment opportunities in rural and inland areas.
History of Hospitality
Spain has had a long and proud history of embracing those that have chosen to reside on its extensive shores. Initially the Phoenicians settled along the Mediterranean developing trading ports - like Cartegena - that today still survive on a maritime economy. The Romans followed, then came the Visigoths, Arabs, Jews and Gypsies, all of whom have contributed intrinsically to Spain´s culturally confused heritage. But this fiery mixture of blood and passion marks this Iberian race with several unique characteristics: The Iberians are used to acting as hosts - voluntarily or not - and the Spanish people continue to extend a warmth and hospitality to travellers, despite the waves of mass tourism that crash endlessly upon these sun drenched shores.
Geography, Language and Climate
With 504,782 km², Spain is the world's 51st-largest country, somewhat bigger than the U.S. state of California. Although the main language is Castillian, along the French border alone, there are three different languages spoken. Nationally, there are at least four official languages and a handful of unofficial ones. Similarly varied is the climate: wet, cold and snowy in winter along the Atlantic north and, by contrast, warm, dry and sunny in the south during the same months. Inland Spain tends to be cold over winter and stiflingly hot during summer, hence the evacuation of Spanish cities during the month of August each year.
Attractions of Spain
The clement climate is undoubtedly one of the major factors stimulating the growing desire to buy properties in the warm southern regions. It was here that English speakers first settled and now English has now become the second language of the country and is being taught in schools and adult education establishments across the whole country. Initially this was for reasons of tourism, but now it is considered vital for careers in the world of technology and international commerce.
Quality of Life
Despite Spain's growing economy and full membership of the EEC, it is still a relatively cheap place to live outside the major cities of Barcelona and Madrid. Although property prices have risen, eating out and travel remain inexpensive. However, the best of what Spain has to offer is not for sale: It is a wealth that is carried in the blood of its people, its Moorish palaces, medieval castles, deep flamenco music from Andalucia. All of this and the endless fiestas that take place in every town, suggest a capacity to celebrate life in a way unmatched by any other European nation.
Corruption Publicity
Unfortunately, over the last year, the country has been the target of a lot of negative publicity regarding outbreaks of corruption in the lucrative Spanish property market and, as a consequence, many people are reconsidering the peninsula as a safe target for property investments. Overpricing of coastal flats and illegal housing estates have been publicised almost daily in the press. One of Spain´s main Digital Newspapers, 20Segundas frequently lists these controversial projects. But for the individual considering buying a house away from the speculative tourist havens on the coast, Spain still offers one of the most dramatic landscapes in which to live. Charming farms with olive groves are still to be found for sale are in the south and for those looking for better prices, the hills of Granada offer better pickings than those of the saturated Malaga province.
Climate, hospitality and a capacity for enjoyment still makes Spain one of the most attractive of choices for a second home.
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