Relocation - Page 2

It's a wonderful place to live & I know people from the US that love living here for the lifestyle, it has a really good vibe and the people are wonderful. In fact one American guy I know, who works in Banking would rather live here with far less income. If you come from the US or even UK  penalties on income and the Red Tape horrendous. The economy could do a better without so many constraints, in particular  on employment, plus the conditions for anybody who choses to be an autonomo are crazy, however, if you are Mexican you will love it. Good luck & hope some of the facts I posted of some use, if you have a job offer before you come I'm sure will be ideal. 

After paying taxes, living and learning about culture in North America, UK and Spain I can only say there is opportunity everywhere for the right person at the right time and with the right skills (mentality and willingness to work hard).  

Yes its all true what David said about taxes, etc here in Spain.  We all know that Government Policies dictate business growth to some extent or another.  In some cases these policies dampen business initiatives (again as David pointed out) but all that said, people live very happy lives with less here because there is not the constant banging of the 'consumer drum' that we hear in other westernized societies. [My experience only.]

A person with drive and enthusiasm can make it anywhere in the world, I believe.

As Andy wisely pointed out 'boots on the ground' will give you a sense of whether the drum that beats in Spain is the one that matches your heart.  It is for some and not for others.

However things work out, adventures in life create better memories than the fear of leaving comfort and safety.  Good luck with wherever you end up!!

High end real estate developer ?  Hmmmm

"adventures in life create better memories"

That's very true Kerri & living in Spain sure is one here, it's clear the economy could be much better without so many restrictions. One of the worse for those who wish to be 'self employed', the burden of paying about 300 Euro's a month 'before any income', plus VAT on all turnover. Note UK is about £12 a month social NI for a start up & no VAT until turnover 80,000 plus. They really need to make some changes to make endeavour worthwhile, plus charge up the economy. Future prosperity is based on budding entrepreneur.   

I totally agree with you!!  This system in Spain for the self employed is outrageous and encourages people to go under the table, never growing their business or hiring others.  

Why people in government are so far removed from real life has always amazed me.  Why don't they leave their offices and get into the trenches with real people and then make sensible policies???

It could be that much of this cost is supporting public health care.  The cost of burgeoning health care costs has to come from somewhere but whatever their reasoning is, definitely counter intuitive to encouraging entrepreneurship! 

I will not hold my breath for change on this topic anytime soon.  Kerri

"The system in Spain for the self employed is outrageous and encourages people to go under the table, never growing their business or hiring others"

The above very good post Kerri & true many in Spain 'just do not bother to grow their business', also the path for a start up person is very difficult & the fact they have to pay 300 Euro a month to do it, with zero income when start out is crazy. (Plus Vat on all income) Further, the employment law and cost for business to take on staff can be prohibitive, it favours older more experienced people and explains in this region why '50% of those under 25 are unemployed'.  Nice place to live, but not a great place to work or run a business.  

Thank you. I already have been offered a high paying position, so employment is not an issue. I try to concentrate on positives, so I know that anywhere you go there are issues. I am moving there more for the quality of life than anything else.

Thanks to all for time taken for the many responses, regarding relocation from US.  Any information regarding Costa del Sol has been helpful and appreciated.