9 Reasons Why I’m Leaving the United States to Live in Spain
I’ve always been a wanderlust. It’s such a natural high for me to aimlessly roam a new part of the world and get lost discovering another culture. Thanks to my love of exploring and passion for adventure, I’ve been lucky enough to have had memorable experiences and make meaningful connections with people from all over the world.
To date, I’ve gallivanted around 37 countries and lived for extended periods in a handful of them. Some highlights from my travels include volunteering on a kibbutz in Israel, living it up in London while I was a student, teaching English as a Second Language in South Korea, and studying Spanish in Madrid.
It’s never been, (nor will it ever be), in my nature to live a traditional life that includes marriage, kids, and a white picket fence. That’s why being settled for me is more about how I feel from within, not a place. However, that hasn’t stopped me from currently planning to leave America and make a new life for myself in Europe.
My upcoming move to Valencia, Spain will be different than my previous travel escapades. That’s because this is the first time I’m planning to permanently live outside of the United States. Even though anything can happen, I’m still 99% sure that I will never again have a mailing address in America.
I’ve given a lot of thought to moving overseas. Now that you know that I’m ready to bounce and make Valencia my new home, read on to learn the top nine reasons why I’m about to hop on a plane to Spain.
1. Health Care
I know first-hand how expensive health care is in the United States. For the past two years, I’ve paid $400 a month, (out-of-pocket) for a crappy plan that didn’t cover a lot. When I move to Spain, I’ll get top-notch care for about $100USD a month and be able to make an appointment to see a doctor within a reasonable time frame. So, I’ll finally be able to say goodbye to waiting days, weeks, or even months to meet with a specialist.
2. Proximity to other parts of Europe
Once I’m set in Valencia, I’ll have easy and affordable access to explore other parts of Europe and Africa. Since travel is my happy, I can’t wait to jet off at a moment’s notice for a weekend or longer trip.
3. Cost of Living
After calling San Francisco my home for ten years, I’m looking forward to paying a third of what I was paying in rent when I lived in California. Although housing will be my biggest expense in Spain, my overall monthly budget will be at least $1500 less than what I’ve spent in the States.
4. Low Crime
While living in the U.S., I’ve noticed my anxiety sky-rocket when I’m in crowded areas that can easily be targets for mass shootings. Once I move to Valencia, I’ll no longer need to worry about random gun violence.
Another reason for choosing to live in Spain’s third largest city is that I’m looking forward to feeling safe walking by myself later in night. This was never an option when I lived in San Francisco and Boston.
5. Friends and Community
A huge perk to moving to Valencia is that I already know people there! This includes connections I’ve made with fellow online community members, friends of friends, and my best gal pal of 25 years. I also know people throughout the country as well as in Ireland, England, Portugal, Germany, and France.
6. Great Weather
Even though it can get humid and allergy season might be a bit tough for me, I’m excited to live in Valencia and enjoy sunny days with Spring-like temperatures throughout most of the year.
7. Close to Water
I love the sound of waves and being by the water. Now that I’ll be minutes away from beaches that line the Mediterranean, I’ll get to dip my feet in the sea whenever I’d like.
8. Practice Spanish
To this day, I kick myself for not starting to learn Spanish when I was younger. Now that I’ll be living in Spain, I have no excuse. I’ve been taking online classes to prepare for my big move and have been having a blast learning a new language. I’m sure it’ll be even more fun to learn Spanish once I’m in Valencia too.
9. Stop and Smell the Roses
I’ve always hated that American culture is about doing and have always admired how Spaniards are about being present and community. I can’t wait to be a part of a culture that celebrates being together and making connections!
So, there you have it. I’m not brave, nuts, or impulsive for making a move to Valencia. I’m just listening to my gut and choosing to run towards living life in a way that works for me!
