In this inspiring episode, Chris Cassidy sits down with Ian McIntosh, a retiree from Liverpool who made the life-changing decision to move to Costa del Sol, Spain. Ian opens up about his journey from heartbreak and harsh winters to warm beaches and a new beginning under the Spanish sun.

He shares the ups and downs of relocating abroad—how he and his partner navigated the visa process, scouted properties across the coast, and eventually found their dream home in one of Europe’s most picturesque regions. Ian’s story is a heartfelt reminder that it’s never too late to start over and that the life you imagine may be just one bold move away.

🎧 Tune in to learn:
 ▪️ Why Costa del Sol became the perfect place for a fresh start
 ▪️ What every expat should know before moving
 ▪️ The realities of house hunting in Spain
 ▪️ The emotional journey of starting anew

Whether you're thinking of retiring in Spain or just curious about expat life, this episode offers valuable insights and plenty of motivation.

Follow the Nusun Network for more real stories, expert tips, and inspiring journeys from the Costa del Sol.

Timestamps:

[00:03]: Considering moving to Costa Del Sol?

[00:08]: Hear real experiences from a mover

[00:15]: Introduction to Chris Cassidy and Ian McIntosh

[00:24]: Ian's journey from Liverpool to Spain

[00:43]: Ian's life before moving to Spain

[00:54]: Transition plans from Italy to Spain

[01:12]: Weather as a key factor in moving

[02:01]: Initial visit to Costa Del Sol

[02:23]: Property search experiences in Spain

[03:01]: Learning from property viewings

[04:01]: Misleading property listings

[04:44]: Considerations in retirement

[05:01]: Early property offers and challenges

[06:00]: Issues with bank repossessions

[06:38]: Securing the right property in Spain

[07:24]: Life changes and settling in Spain

[08:05]: Adapting to Spanish life and culture

[09:42]: Visa challenges for Americans

[10:07]: Legal and procedural hurdles

[11:07]: Differences in police checks and bureaucracy

[12:12]: Processing times and adjustments

[13:12]: Settling in and moving past challenges

[13:54]: Personal losses and moving to Spain

[14:29]: Cultural adjustment for Ian's partner

[15:15]: Understanding cultural differences

[16:20]: Administrative challenges in Spain

[17:01]: Navigating Spanish bureaucracy

[17:40]: Managing time and retirement lifestyle

[18:59]: Ian's professional background

[19:16]: Daily life in Spain

[20:06]: Social life and family visits

[21:04]: Changes in Estepona and beyond

[22:01]: Housing market and property considerations

[23:28]: Reflecting on initial property choices

[24:10]: Future property plans and preferences

[25:29]: Importance of experience in choosing a home

[26:30]: Balancing location and lifestyle

[27:04]: Social challenges and making connections

[28:00]: Building friendships in a new place

[28:53]: Personal reflections on moving

[29:36]: Seasonal changes in Estepona

[30:03]: Evaluating living arrangements

[30:52]: Advice for potential movers

[31:22]: Embracing change and living in the moment

[32:07]: Financial considerations and quality of life

[33:01]: Cost of living comparison

[33:49]: Benefits of a warmer climate

[34:38]: Work-life balance in Spain

[35:33]: Importance of professional assistance

[36:42]: The role of bureaucracy.es

[37:42]: Positive experiences with support services

[38:05]: Closing remarks and future plans

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