The quick and easy answer, and I live there so I know first hand, is no. It is a wonderful place to live. I will post a more detailed reply tomorrow as it is so late.

 

Thanks, Stevesainty. I look forward to hearing more. What areas would you suggest given what we are looking for?

 

Only you can say.
Go and try it out!
Thousands of Brits live there very happily.
Peronally I don't like it at all

 

I get the sense that it isn't very pretty from google maps. Also, we'd like a sense of community, including local Spanish folks. Would love to hear what you don't like about it, Pesky Wesky, if you don't mind sharing. Seems our time there will be limited, I'd certainly like to eliminate the most unlikely places in favor of something that sounds more compatible.

 

I have been there multiple times, and i do not like it at all, i found it dirty and very run down. There are much cleaner and more pleasant places on the eye on the South coast Imo.

Of course it is "each to their own". Same as Benidorm, some love it and some think it is a direct gateway to hell!!

 

What's your favorite south coast place, Wsteele? Thanks!

 

it's like.....

 

I like it, to visit, we get our car serviced there and it's not horrible. The problem is everyone has their own idea of the perfect place. It must suit a lot as it is always busy there but we went further north and found our home.

 

Where's that? And what do you love about it? Thanks, Simon22.

 

Yes. Also skip Mijas, Fuengirola, Benalmadena, and Torremolinos.

So, should we skip Torrevieja? We're planning on Cadiz, Estepona, Mijas, Fuengirola, Benalmadena(?), Torremolinas, Malaga, and Adra, as well.

 

La Cala is a beautiful small town, still very Spanish with many different Nationalities too. There are also some very nice areas of Fuengirola and Benalmadena. I certainly would not suggest skipping these areas!

 

I forgot to mention, seeing as you were interested in the weather, this good weather site with historical weather charts.

Histórico de temperaturas para Torrevieja - El Tiempo

Just choose your town and time of year and check out the temperature, rain etc.

 

have a look at simmi's thread , also running
you don't say how old you are but the attraction of torrevieja is that it has far superior facilities to anywhere else on the coast ; no charm [ like the rest of the coast ]
anyway , if it is the best weather you want between almeria and benidorm is for you

 

I have friends who love it so much that they holiday in Torrevieja every year. I tried it and really disliked it.

We're all different with varying tastes and preferences and the only way to find out if you would be happy living somewhere is to spend a reasonable amount of time there unless of course you hate it as soon as you get there.

Areas that seem great on a short holiday may not seem so wonderful when you've been there a while and find it doesn't suit your individual needs and interests.

 

Thank you Steve for a detailed and interesting reply. We have no idea where we will end up, we know what we think we want from a move to Spain, but really need to get over there and explore. Unfortunately our daughter is doing her GCSE's so will be a while before we can move over but if OH gets made redundant it will bring the possibility of buying a house forward. He has had serious health issues although now back to work but really dont want to wait until 67 before he retires, he's 52. Lots to think about, although I know Torrevieja isnt pretty, the fact it has hospitals and everything on the doorstep is definitely a plus for me. Will definitely put it on the list to explore. What did you think of Benimar/Benijofar/Ciudad Quesada?

 

I forgot to mention also that I live between the two salt lakes so 10 minutes away are walking and cycling trails and lots of wading birds including Flamingos.

I said that there were some run down areas but did not stress that there also some very pretty places in Torrevieja; just google Torrevieja images.

Lots of restaurants of all types from cheap and cheerful three course including wine for 10€ to some excellent fine dining restaurants where the sky is the limit.

Some people will still not be convinced but hey ho, it may not be for everyone but I would say that you need to at least visit and not dismiss it on hearsay, like we almost did.

 

Very well stated!

I live in one of the urbs just south of Torrevieja and can vouch for everything you've just said!

And I would add that if you aim to 'view' Torrevieja - DO NOT simply drive through on the N332 - that will tell you absolutely nothing at all.

As you said, the town itself is very Spanish - when you need to see a doctor/council official/whatever you WILL need the Spanish language. However, if you decide to live on Orihuela Costa (which - from my point of view is a grand total of about 100 yards away) then you will get by with English language - no problem.


There's also a lot of live pop/rock bands around here - our beach bar has such acts every FRi/Sat/Sun - and when the summer comes probably lots of the rest of the week as well!

And it's never dead in winter

Steve

 

Thanks, great advice, Steve. We do plan to spend an overnight there. I realize it's not much, but it's what we have. Can you tell me more about the Orihuela Costa? It seems to be south of Torrevieja. Is that right? Does it have its own shops, restaurants, etc? Do you think we might find walkable areas there? We don't want to be isolated in a total expat community, at least I don't THINK we do.

We are late 50s, early 60s, but still appreciate a good time. Beach bar sounds like a blast!

 

I don't know anything about graffitti or being run down or crime. I didn't hear about anything before I went and I didn't see any evidence either.
There are 2 main things that I didn't like about Torrevieja;
One was the influence of British people living there and English speaking nationalities. I don't like being greeted in English everywhere and I don't like availabilty of all things British and I don't like the lack of Spanish goods/ services in the areas I was in.
And yes, I probably wouldn't like living in many parts of the UK because it's too whatever nationality you want to put in there. I don't know. I've only lived in Weston Super Mare and Norwich in the UK, not noted for their huge immigrant populations

The second was the countryside/ climate. Too dry and harsh

This is something I wrote on another thread. Please pay special attention to the last sentence.

I've been to the urbanización La Florida a couple of times on Orihuela Costa. One of the most important places around there is The Emerald Isle pub. I've also been to another place on Orihuela Costa near the Carrefour on the N332. My impression was of a population made up almost in its entirety of 55+ european immigrants, the vast majority of which were from the UK and Ireland. These areas were very residential interspersed with pubs and shops geared in the main to English speaking residents. The same could be said of the parts of Torrevieja that we went to. It was difficult to find Spanish newspapers, Spanish tv, Spanish food and to hear Spanish being spoken.
The British people that I met were very happy with their life there.

Other Torrevieja threads
http://www.expatforum.com/expats/spain-expat-forum-expats-living-spain/1003282-torrevieja.html

http://www.expatforum.com/expats/sp...com/expats/spain-expat-forum-expats-living-spain/770785-looking-move-spain.html

 

I don't know anything about graffitti or being run down or crime. I didn't hear about anything before I went and I didn't see any evidence either.
There are 2 main things that I didn't like about Torrevieja;
One was the influence of British people living there and English speaking nationalities. I don't like being greeted in English everywhere and I don't like availabilty of all things British and I don't like the lack of Spanish goods/ services in the areas I was in.
And yes, I probably wouldn't like living in many parts of the UK because it's too whatever nationality you want to put in there. I don't know. I've only lived in Weston Super Mare and Norwich in the UK, not noted for their huge immigrant populations

The second was the countryside/ climate. Too dry and harsh

This is something I wrote on another thread. Please pay special attention to the last sentence.


Other Torrevieja threads
http://www.expatforum.com/expats/spain-expat-forum-expats-living-spain/1003282-torrevieja.html

http://www.expatforum.com/expats/sp...com/expats/spain-expat-forum-expats-living-spain/770785-looking-move-spain.html

Thank you. That's the type of input that helps me know what to look for/avoid. I definitely want to experience Spain, including the language. Otherwise, what's the point? My husband, though, may be thrilled with the diversity of Brits and Irish. We're from a particularly non-diverse part of the US, so most anything passes for diversity with us! You're right, Pesky Wesky, nothing trumps actual experience, but it really does help to know what others see that we might miss upon first glance.

 

Thank you all!

I keep saying it, but it bears repeating. I truly appreciate the candid impressions you have all shared. We have planned a visit in November, but I just don't think we could stay long enough to make an informed decision WITHOUT lots of input from people who've been there.

As mentioned, we are in our late 50s and early 60s. Part of our decision will be age-driven, part of it driven by what feels most comfortable. But, we really aren't moving to Spain to have the same old, same old. We want to experience the culture, learn a new language, and make Spanish friends. There's a bit of discomfort that comes from...well, stepping outside your comfort zone. It helps to understand what others have experienced if for no other reason than we can ask ourselves if we truly understand our priorities.

So, thanks again. If anyone wants to play tour guide in November for an hour or so, drinks are on us!

 

If you prefer 'less arid' scenery, Javea which is north Costa Blanca is beautiful, mountains surrounding Javea town itself, and lots of smaller villages around.
Javea is a working town, with lots of shops and restaurants, most of which stay open out of tourist season. The town itself has three parts,the Arenal beach, the port area and the old town.
The population of Javea is mixed Spanish, English, Dutch,Swiss, German, French, some South Americans, Moroccans, and many other smaller nationalities from all over the world.
Javea is almost half way between Alicante and Vallencia airports, so convenient for both, and roughly one hours drive from the airports.

 

Hi Fergie. Javea sounds beautiful and it was on the short list until I saw that it rains...271 days a year! Holy guacamole...can that be right? We consider ourselves already living in one of the rainiest regions of the US, but we don't get THAT much! . Is this kinda like Honolulu rain...it rains a little bit every day, but not enough to even worry about?

 

Hi again Op.

I see you're 50 and 60 plus. I know a few couples that age and I'd say the success rate with the language is no more than 50%, probably quite a bit below. You'll nail bar and restaurant Spanish but getting to the point of socialising with Spaniards who don't speak English is a real slog and for some impossible if they live in a place where it's normal to go a few days without it being necessary to speak some Spanish.

If learning Spanish and reaching the point where you can communicate effectively on a variety of subjects is a serious goal, choosing a place where Spaniards outnumber foreigners would help you greatly.

 

Well, I am nearly 69 years old & doing really well with my Spanish Many of us Brits don't even bother - so, I think some encouragement might be in order . Learning a new language is not achieved, over-night...

 

heavens!

if it rained even 50 days a year we wouldn't be facing drought conditions we're having now

I'd love to know where that info came from, too

 

My husband and I are seriously thinking of moving to Spain. We were thinking Portugal, but Spain seemed to make more sense.

Anyway, I've been poking around these forums and many people seem to be down on Torrevieja. And, actually, after exploring some "for sale" listings and google maps, it really doesn't seem like a great area. It is the last planned stop in the south when we visit.

What do we want? We're looking for European charm, walkability to restaurants, shops and bars, on or near the coast, great weather (not rainy or super hot), and with a nice blend of locals and expats from around the world (not solely English-speaking).

So, should we skip Torrevieja? We're planning on Cadiz, Estepona, Mijas, Fuengirola, Benalmadena(?), Torremolinas, Malaga, and Adra, as well.

Should be go further east of Torrevieja (keeping in mind that we're not keen on rain)? Any insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Exciting times ahead for you. My sister used to live near Torrevieja and I soon decided that it was not a place for me to live, but each to their own....I live on the outskirts of Benidorm and absolutely love it here and wouldn't live anywhere else.

As you are under retirement age and assuming you may need to work, do you have your visas requirements and healthcare sorted to become residents?

Steve

 

Exciting times ahead for you. My sister used to live near Torrevieja and I soon decided that it was not a place for me to live, but each to their own....I live on the outskirts of Benidorm and absolutely love it here and wouldn't live anywhere else.

As you are under retirement age and assuming you may need to work, do you have your visas requirements and healthcare sorted to become residents?

Steve

The question was asked in 2016, so...

 

I know this is an old thread but just in case people still question Torrevieja here is my opinion. I have lived in Torrevieja on and off for over 25 years. First of all Torrevieja is ( for most Spanish folk ) the actual town. The outlying areas of which there are many are fairly new and were essentially urbanizations built for foreigners during the boom years of the 90s. So if you really want to talk about Torrevieja you should focus on the town not la Mata or Punta Prima etc.
The town ( like most working places in Spain) is not white washed villas with a quiet little square. It's a working class area that reflects the social economic conditions of the time. Yes it has graffiti. Yes there is prostitution and drugs. Yes there are botellons. But these things are replicated in most places in Spain and are part of the culture ,good or bad. Given these things many foreigners find it ugly, dirty and smelly. In the summer months the population doubles as Spanish families head to the coast to escape the inland heat. This makes the town very busy and noisy with traffic and late nights. Again foreigners often don't like this. However, what is important is to bear in mind that this is what real Spain is for Spanish folk and is something that they are willing to tolerate or even like as social activity is very much a principal pillar of the culture. The Spanish do not go around complaining about neighbours listening to loud music or sitting on the balconies or in the street talking to late in the night. It's just part of the atmosphere, especially in the summer. So my point is: it's fine not to like places like Torrevieja but it's important to remember that the Spain reflected in programs like Place in the Sun peddle a cliche of Spanish life rather like an advert. It's like Spanish selling Scotland as a place where ginger headed men in kilts sit around all day drinking whisky talking about the Loch Ness monster.
Also the idea that everyone speaks English in torrevieja is not true. I never get spoken to in English always Spanish but if I go toLa Zenia its the opposite with shop assistants insisting on English.

 

My husband and I are seriously thinking of moving to Spain. We were thinking Portugal, but Spain seemed to make more sense.

Anyway, I've been poking around these forums and many people seem to be down on Torrevieja. And, actually, after exploring some "for sale" listings and google maps, it really doesn't seem like a great area. It is the last planned stop in the south when we visit.

What do we want? We're looking for European charm, walkability to restaurants, shops and bars, on or near the coast, great weather (not rainy or super hot), and with a nice blend of locals and expats from around the world (not solely English-speaking).

So, should we skip Torrevieja? We're planning on Cadiz, Estepona, Mijas, Fuengirola, Benalmadena(?), Torremolinas, Malaga, and Adra, as well.

Should be go further east of Torrevieja (keeping in mind that we're not keen on rain)? Any insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Hello
I have lived in a town by the coast in Alicante province , i live in this area since I was 14 ( used to live in France ) and i would warn people against Torrevieja , the central beach has no more sand , the other one is packed .
The ex little town, now little city , is a nightmare , i wouldn't live there even if they gave me a nice house.
Everything is PACKED , lots of mafias from around the world .
Insecurity...
If i were you i would avoid all those towns near Málaga , it's packed ans unpleasant, and of course Malaga is to avoid , anyway in that area it's already quire hot for me at least.
Adra is now packed too.
Around Cádiz but BY THE BEACH would be nicer ( but I'm only commenting about the places you mentioned )
I would recommend Ibiza , yes lots of young people on the discos in the outskirts of the city but it doesn't affect the town , which i found quite refreshing when i came from the UK when I was living there, nice old town etc...nice landscape . But If you want to avoid the city there's a whole island , of course it's a bit expensive .
I also recommend Menorca ( not Mallorca)
And I would also recommend Tenerife or playa del inglés in gran Canaria ( I only recommend places I have been living in for at least 3 months )
Then you have the towns north of Barcelona ( costa brava )
Some towns south of valencia city ( Cullera , Sueca etc..)
You don't want to be inland in Spain , even 20 km inland might mean heat. By all MEANS avoid most well publicized areas ( Malaga area, TORREVIEJA, Benidorm)
I have cousins who opened a sort of an eco-farm with a hostel near the Ebro river , and they say there are nice towns over there near Amposta.
I hope it helps.
My town is nice but it has nothing to offer in the winter, u would have to own a car in Spain , to go to Alicante or Elche for extra entertainment in the winter months (October to may )
And don't live in elche its super hot and unbearable i the summer . It's 14 km inland ( Elche is the reason people from Elche come here for the summer lol )

Anyway i hope it helped
kind regards
b

 

"By all MEANS avoid most well publicized areas ( Malaga area, TORREVIEJA, Benidorm)"

There are many thousands of expats of all nationalities who live here in Benidorm, some for many years who enjoy the city.
It's mostly from people who have never been to Benidorm that spread derogatory views.........

Steve

 

Ironically most Spanish think of Benidorm as very much a Spanish city culturally. The Brits tend to have a narrow view of the place - thinking it is all about Britsh immigrants. The Brits basically visit the English Barrio and rarely the rest of the place. Lots of retired Basques live in Benidorm and it's actually quie famous for the basque food.