How did I end up in Spain?

In 2009 I graduated early and eagerly into what what would become the world’s worst economic recession in years. After my dreams of becoming a corporate slave (not!) evaporated before me, I faced my own truth that if I was going to see the world, the time was NOW. So, I struck out on my own, packed my bags and ended up in the sunny South of Spain.

What’s it like living as an expatriate?

The experience was and still is one of the most trying of my life, not only moving to a place where I didn’t know a soul, but also learning a new language as a means of survival as well as adjusting to different social and cultural norms. Not to mention, living on the other side of the world from my family and friends takes it toll, but I’ve come to fall in love with Spain and appreciate the differences. Living in Europe was and still is my dream and I feel so blessed to be able to have this experience.

So why’d I make the move then?

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told “Christine, you’re so brave!” Really, bravery has little to do with it. (OK- some days you need to be a little brave!) It comes down to what you’re willing to give up to experience an unconventional life.  Nothing was less appealing to me than graduating and going straight into 40 years of work until retirement. I wanted to see the world, and do it while I’m still young.

Why do I write this blog?

Through my words and photos, I hope to encourage others to see this beautiful world we live in and to not let fear of the unknown prevent you from doing it.

I also want to celebrate the beauty of Spain and its culture and people. My goal is to show people that travel can still be done on a budget and many of my tips focus on travel for the budget-minded person.