Hola! I already posted this in the moving forum, but haven’t been getting many hits. Sorry for the double-posting, just trying to get some info on a good location for this big decision.
I am 29 yrs old and considering a move to Spain in about 3 months time. I studied a summer in Barcelona and fell in love with the culture and lifestyle and now I?m hoping to move to Spain and rent an apartment for a year or two. I have a job I can keep telecommuting, so work is not a concern, but I do need a reliable high speed internet connection.
My concerns are:
-Affordable. I have a job, but don?t make a lot (about $2,000 US a month, after taxes), and I know the USD-Euro conversion is going to kill me! I?m hoping to find a furnished studio or 1br near or under 500 euro (a dream?). If it?s cheap enough I will furnish myself.
-Internet service. Must be decently fast and reliable. Preferably cable.
-Location. I?d like to be in or near a city. Doesn?t need to be trendy or the hottest spot on Earth, just enough to be able to meet lots of people and have things to do, maybe a university or youngish night life. On the coast would be nice, but not entirely necessary.
-Culture. I?m pretty liberal and do appreciate art and intellectual stimulation. Friendly to ex-pats who aren?t obnoxious and are trying to fit in and learn. Preferably a small international community.
-Safety. Speaks for itself.
I think going back to BCN is probably a little out of my price range, and that?s fine. I would like to explore more of the country anyway. Valencia seems to be the most affordable of the bigger cities (cheaper than BCN and Madrid), but I?m really open to anywhere in the country. Any suggestions or warnings would be greatly appreciated!!! I will gladly repay your efforts to help me with smiley-faced emoticons, and maybe even a drink if we end up neighbors!
Thanks!
