Winter Escapes in Spain

 

There is little reason for retired people to stay in their cold and dreary countries in the northern hemisphere, paying high fuel bills and counting the days until spring when they could be sunning themselves in Spain or the Canary Islands.

Large numbers of retired couples made investments in apartments and villas in Spain and now spend at least the winter months in a warmer climate. Falling currency exchange rates have made the situation a little less rosy than it used to be a few years ago, yet many still feel that spending winters further south is worth the money and trouble.

For pensioners who prefer to rent, there are plenty of apartments to rent. The Canary Islands are an especially popular choice of winter holiday destination because of the spring-like climate during the depths of winter back home.

Go out and about in any Spanish resort during the winter months and the majority of holidaymakers will be over 55 years of age. There are social groups and clubs with regular events for these people which keeps the tourist industry alive and well all year round in the Canary Islands.

 

Winter escapes in Spain -

Keeping fit on holiday in Spain

Leisure centres in Spanish resorts provide various sports and games facilities for the entertainment of tourists. These are very well used by the over 55s during their extended winter breaks.

In fact, there is an excellent ready made social life for long-stay visitors because newcomers are warmly welcomed to make up Bridge tables, attend quiz nights or make up a foursome for tennis.

Other possible activities to participate in are salsa, zumba, yoga. You could learn to sail, go deep sea fishing or hire boats for whale and dolphin spotting. There is so much to do that life back home borders on the boring.

Too many Brits?

One disadvantage or advantage depending on your point of view, in certain parts of Spain, is the large number of British communities with their own shops and social circles. There are plenty of English speaking people around which means that making friends is easy. A few British people live and work in Spain permanently, running bars, restaurants and shops.

 

One such community with a high number of British people is in the lovely small resort of Los Gigantes on the west coast of Tenerife. It would be impossible to feel lonely there. There are regular quiz nights, barbecues and even a small Sunday market where visitors can buy English books.