We have, unexpectedly, retired and are in our late 40's & early 50's. We are working hard on looking and identifying all of the work ahead for the move (we expect to move March 2013).
We are relatively fluent in Latin American Spanish and will be looking into some of the other websites mentioned here to touch up our accents and dialect.
Also, thank you for your recommendations on financial matters. Our funds will be received through US sources, so we'll have to figure that part out and the taxes.
The three questions we still have are "Is it better to secure an apartment before sending the bulk of belongings, as we don't know how long it takes to secure a dwelling?", "Should we ship our car or truck?" and "Are there storage locations for items that don't fit into the new apartment?"
We know these are rather mundane questions, but knowledgeable answers will make our move so much more efficient.
Thank you for any input and we look forward to meeting all our new friends in Barcelona and Spain!!
Oct 14, 2011 · SpainExpat member
Hi,
1) Securing an apartment for rent at the moment (and for the foreseeable future) in Barcelona can be done pretty quickly (as there are many properties to Let) so it is possible to do it when you arrive if you have somewhere to stay and store your things whilst looking. Normally though it's best to secure beforehand to ensure you have a thorough look and can compare areas/apartments/terms.
2) I personally would suggest not bringing your car over - otherwise you may tie yourself up in paperwork and extra expense. +Parking spaces here are smaller than in the US. What if it breaks down and needs repairing/parts - are they easily obtainable? etc.,
3) Storage rental locations are available in Barcelona.
Welcome to Barcelona!
1) Securing an apartment for rent at the moment (and for the foreseeable future) in Barcelona can be done pretty quickly (as there are many properties to Let) so it is possible to do it when you arrive if you have somewhere to stay and store your things whilst looking. Normally though it's best to secure beforehand to ensure you have a thorough look and can compare areas/apartments/terms.
2) I personally would suggest not bringing your car over - otherwise you may tie yourself up in paperwork and extra expense. +Parking spaces here are smaller than in the US. What if it breaks down and needs repairing/parts - are they easily obtainable? etc.,
3) Storage rental locations are available in Barcelona.
Welcome to Barcelona!