Spotlight on…

Spotlight on Belize

Wed, 31 May 2023 09:14:40 GMT

This Caribbean Safe Haven May Be the Lifestyle Bail-Out You Need

With a tiny population, there’s plenty of room to spread out, English is the official language, and it remains remarkably affordable.

Dear Reader,

I want to let you in on a little secret that’s never been more important: If you’re looking for a sweet spot to escape the rest of the world, it’s closer than you think.

It’s the kind of place you see in dreamy travel magazine photos or music videos...palm trees swaying in time with the gentle ebb of clear warm waters caressing soft white sands. Where there’s no horizon because the sky and the water are the same shade of blue.

People are quirky and kind. They greet you with a smile and a cheerful “Good Day.” They’re genuinely happy. And why wouldn’t they be? They live in paradise.

There’s fresh fruit for breakfast, fresh fish for lunch, and the end of a blissful day is celebrated by the sun casting pink goodnight hues across the tranquil landscape.

Worries are few. It’s an outpost of low taxes, sleepy stability, and buoyant opportunity yet still sufficiently uncrowded and undiscovered that visitors and settlers feel they have happened on a place everyone else has overlooked.

When you know its secrets, it can cost you very little to live here...30% to 50% less than the U.S. or elsewhere in the Caribbean. Expat couples say a budget of as little $1,500-$2,900 a month will do, depending on your tastes and where you settle.

But the main attraction is that here, little more than a two-hour flight from Miami, you can escape the rest of the planet’s reality and ease into a languorous lifestyle based on a reggae rhythm...played on the off beat and joyfully intoxicating.

And it very well may be the kind of “retirement bail-out” you need.

Take the “Now” to Craft Your “Tomorrow”

I’m Jackie Flynn, International Living publisher.

No one knows what the future holds. Except that it won’t be what you expect.

If there’s anything I know for sure, it’s that this current global crisis is pushing all of us to take stock and consider the direction our lives are going.

So why not take the “now” to craft the “tomorrow” you want it to be?

Many of us are looking for a simpler life. A happier life. In a place that’s comfortable and safe...where there’s a steady supply of fresh food, the climate won’t kill us, and the scenery—and serenity—is delightful.

I can’t think of a better place than the small commonwealth country of Belize, the Caribbean’s best-kept “secret.”

Maybe you already suspected Belize was the country I was describing. Here at International Living, we’ve been high on Belize for many decades now...since even before the former British Honduras won its independence from Britain back in 1981.

We’ve watched the small country transform from a crown colony to a full-fledged sovereign and democratic nation. In some ways, the country’s British heritage still lingers. It’s why English is the official language and why parliamentary procedure prevails and English common law is the law of the land.

In other ways, Belize more closely aligns with Canada and the U.S. They drive on the right hand side of the road, for example. And the currency—the Belize dollar—while prominently displaying a picture of Queen Elizabeth, has been pegged 2:1 to the US dollar since 1978, making conversions effortless. The US dollar is just as freely used. And Belize is in the Central Standard Time zone, with no daylight savings time changes to contend with.

Another benefit of Belize is that although it’s made up of 200 small islands, the country itself is part of the Central American isthmus. Just south of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, its culture is far more Caribbean than Latino. You can actually drive to Belize from the U.S if you’ve a mind to. Drive time from the Texas border to Belize is about 35 hours, less than the time it takes to drive from Phoenix or Las Vegas to New York City.

Best of all, It’s uncrowded and there’s room to spread out. Only about 400,000 people live in Belize, about the size of Massachusetts.

Ready to Shine Your Spotlight on Belize?
Let Us Help.

Just before the COVID-19 outbreak in the western hemisphere, I reached out to our International Living correspondent in Belize, Laura Diffendal.

I asked her if she’d be willing to spend some time with a professional video crew, creating a series of videos to show you what life in Belize is really like. There are plenty of tourism videos you can find on the internet, for sure, but that’s not what we were after.

Little did I know that the videos Laura and her crew created for you would now be more relevant than ever. If you’re taking stock of your life and your future, as many of us are doing today, you’ll want to take a serious look at Belize. And there’s no one better to show you the “insider’s Belize” and explain its secrets than Laura.

It’s her mission, after all, to be your eyes and ears in Belize. She’s been living in Belize for seven years now, with her husband Dave. They own and operate two businesses there and she’s constantly on the lookout for opportunities in every corner of the country, from north to south, from the Caribbean coast and the many “cayes” and islets to the rolling farmland of the interior Cayo district and the pine ridge forests along the western border.

Over the years, Laura has interviewed dozens and dozens of expats in Belize...some are business owners like she is, but many are contentedly retired...just soaking up the sun and happily enjoying life on their own terms.

So when I asked Laura to take a video crew and go out and capture a slice of real life for you, she jumped at the chance.

As she says, “One of the draws for us in coming to Belize was that we get to play a role in the foundational aspects of a young country. There are so many opportunities and chances to step up and be proactive and really make a difference. As an example, I've had the opportunity to help develop private groups of businesspeople with shared interests and through business groups like the BTIA—the Belize Tourism Industry Association. This is so meaningful to me and something I never would have experienced in a city like Cleveland, where I’m from.

“I expect to see Belize come roaring back, better than ever, from this current global downturn. You’re going to see some amazing bargains for travel here, for sure. Belize really is a sanctuary...a completely unique little hideaway. It’s rewarding for me to help other likeminded people find what we’ve found here.”

It’s exactly because of that attitude that I asked Laura to take on this video project. No one knows the lay of the land better. She splits her time between her two homes and businesses in Belize’s most popular expat destinations and that makes her the perfect person to take you on a guided tour and focus a light on the opportunities waiting for you, whether you’re looking to retire, start a business, work online from paradise, or just reconnect with nature and the gentler, happier way life is supposed to be lived...

If you’re ready to discover Belize’s secrets...and the best destinations for a total life makeover...

Let Laura Diffendal Take You on a Personal, Guided Tour of “Her Belize”... From the Comfort of Your Home

Maybe you’ve already been to Belize. If you have, you know it’s a magical place. And if you haven’t been there, put it at the top of your bucket list right now. When we’re able to travel again, make it your first stop.

Until then, the next best thing is to settle in and immerse yourself in “Laura’s Belize”—those two special communities she calls home...the art and culture, friends and neighbors, movers and shakers, and the fun places and activities that await you there.

I think you’ll like what you see. As I said, Belize is only a few hours from where you may be right now. It’s quick and easy to get to there...but it’s a world away from the stress and uncertainties of the rest of the world.

What you don’t know about Belize may surprise you. Laura reveals the secrets in this new video project, called Spotlight on Belize: The Low-Cost Caribbean Safe Haven.

No Shoes, No Shirt, No Watch, No Worries

Looking for privacy and freedom? Where no one pays you any mind? Where you can ditch your watch, your shoes, your cares? In Belize, all you really need is a hat, a bathing suit and a t-shirt or two…

As film director Sofia Coppola, whose father Francis Ford Coppola owns a resort in Placencia says, “It’s nice to be able to be a bit of a slob and feel fully relaxed in a place so removed from busy, modern life.”

Placencia, she says, “is unlike any place I know. It feels like an undiscovered small town—authentic and not at all touristy.”

In Spotlight on Belize, you’ll see exactly what she means—and not only in Placencia, but well beyond.

This has been no small undertaking. Laura has spent years getting to know the ins and outs of both Ambergris Caye—Belize’s most popular and well-known island—and Placencia, a gorgeous paradisiacal peninsula on the mainland in southern Belize.

For this project, she dug deep and called on expats and locals alike living in these areas. And through the magic of video, you’ll meet them and see and hear their tales of life in Belize...benefits and challenges alike.

Laura’s also put together a comprehensive primer presentation that gives you all the nuts and bolts details you’ll need to consider if you’re thinking of making a move to Belize yourself.

For instance, did you know that Belize makes it incredibly easy to gain residence there? It offers tremendous tax benefits, too, even if you only spend one month a year there.

At age 45, you can qualify for the Belize government's Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Program, that gives you residence in Belize. And as I said, you can enjoy these benefits even if you spend as little as one month per year there or you're far from retirement.

Benefits include permanent exemption from Belizean taxes, including income tax, capital gains tax, estate tax and—during the first year after obtaining your visa, you are exempt from import tax on household goods, automobiles, boats and even airplanes….

Here’s What You Need to Know About Belize’s Top Two Destinations for Chilled-Out Good-Value Living...

If you’ve been to Belize, you may have spent time on Ambergris Caye, the biggest, most well-known and most-visited of Belize’s archipelago of islands.

It’s quintessential Caribbean—rustic and charming. Streets are lined with gaily painted wooden buildings and humming with golf carts as the main method of transportation. The crystal-clear waters that surround the island are bath-water warm and great for boating, fishing, snorkeling, diving, and more. The scenery will literally take your breath away...white sand beaches giving way to the turquoise sea and the immense blue sky beyond...

As one Californian transplant there says, "I love the balmy weather, with temperatures ranging from 75 to 85 degrees most days. The aquamarine water and nearby reef are stunning. The breeze coming off the Caribbean Sea has a cooling effect, so we hardly ever use our air-conditioning. It is comfortable to swim all year round, and nature is ever present. It's a small community and everyone is friendly. I walk to the beach, where I run into friends. Our normal attire is shorts, shirts, and flip-flops."

Placencia, on the other hand, is a 16-mile sliver of land along Belize’s southern coast. Pristine sailboats glide through the turquoise waters alongside local fishing boats. Fresh seafood is available year-round, as are healthy fruits and vegetables…and at a fraction of what you’ll pay in the U.S. or Canada.

The Great Barrier Reef is a bit farther offshore here than it is at Ambergris Caye and holds the swells at bay. Placencia is said to have the best beaches in Belize, with silky-soft sand and warm shallows too sleepy to bother raising a wave.... a perfect place to slow down, relax, and recharge.

Living here is easy. As one expat says, “We have one road that runs down the peninsula and one sidewalk that runs the length of the beach in the village. On a typical day, I will grab a coffee in the village. I’ll buy three $1 pies for breakfast from John the Bakerman and head to work, a 10 minutes’ drive by golf cart.

“I love that everyone takes Sundays off here, and all the locals are out for barbecues with their families and swimming in the sea. A group of us get going by about six o’clock on a Sunday morning, run a trail to a waterfall, swim and meditate, and are back in the village by 10. It’s a great way to start the day.”

Because of their popularity, the cost of living on Ambergris Caye and the Placencia peninsula aren’t the lowest you’ll find in Belize. Still, it’s easy for a couple to get by on just $2,500 to $2,900 a month, including rent, utilities, food, entertainment, and so on. Singles can get by on about 30% less than that.

“There’s just not a lot to spend money on,” one expat says. “You don’t need expensive clothes or a car. We get around by bicycle or golf cart, and bars and restaurants tend to be low-key and casual. It’s a good way to live.”

Like what you’re hearing?

Here’s How to Take Your Virtual Guided Tour...

If you’re ready to take a look at Belize...up close and personal, but right now, and from the comfort of your home, there’s no better resource than Spotlight on Belize: The Low-Cost Caribbean Safe Haven.

Unlike anything else you’ll find on the internet or anywhere else, you’ll travel along with Laura and her professional video crew as she introduces you to Ambergris Caye and Placencia...two of the best communities in Belize that make for easy and affordable expat living.

Laura believes these destinations are well worth your attention right now. These are places not yet discovered in large numbers. Prices are low and opportunities are sky high.

in this Spotlight on Belize, Laura takes you by the hand and not only introduces you to “her” Belize, but she gives you the tools to make it “your Belize.”

Here’s what’s included as part of the Spotlight on Belize: The Low-Cost Caribbean Safe Haven package:

A welcome video from Laura, filmed with her camera phone to give you updated input on what’s going on in Belize today... You’ll discover how Belize has responded to the coronavirus crisis, and why there’s so much optimism for the future.

5 professional videos to introduce you to Ambergris Caye:

Begin your tour with an introduction to Ambergris Caye—Northeast of the mainland, it’s Belize's largest island at about 25 miles long. The famous Belize Barrier Reef is just offshore and the island is known for its Caribbean beaches, abundance of sea life and watersports including scuba diving sites such as the 124-meter-deep Blue Hole. San Pedro town is the beating heart of the island of Ambergris, where you’ll find the most action, including bars, restaurants, and shopping.

Explore the area north of the bridge from San Pedro town, including Secret Beach—Take a trip north of the bridge and meet Robert, one of the expat owners of Marbucks Café. He explains why he feels the north end of the island is the best area for growth and he shares his advice about starting a business in Belize. You’ll take a brief tour of Ak’Bol yoga retreat center and journey farther north (about 45 minutes from town) to laidback and off-the-grid Secret Beach on the leeward side of the island, a popular entertainment spot with bars, restaurants, a live music venue, and more. You’ll meet Ben, a California expat who explains why he and his wife chose Belize and how they found their niche and built their business.

Over-the-water bars, live music, and volunteering—Tag along to Rum Dog, the first over-the-water bar north of the bridge from San Pedro town. Next up is Crocs, a sports bar on the leeward side of the island that offers beautiful sunset views. Continue the bar hopping back in San Pedro at Palapa Bar—one of the island’s most popular retreats, which regularly features live music. Owners Scott and Jodi share tips for potential business owners and explain how they and others are making a difference for this small community. You’ll want to hear their inspiring story...

Ambergris Caye is all about the water—You’ll start at the Sandbar, the iconic landmark in the heart of San Pedro, where you can grab a beer or a stay for the night for just $30-$40. From there, you’ll get a birdseye view of the reef just offshore and Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where you can enjoy some of the world’s best snorkeling, diving paddle-boarding, swimming.... Then, recharge at Iguana Juan’s and discover how expat Brad—a former stand-up comedian in Las Vegas—found a neglected business and turned it into a success. Musicians will appreciate input from part-time expat, Russell, happily making a good living here.

Where to live and what to do—Start north of the bridge and see some examples of condos for rent or sale, short- and long-term, with sales prices as low as $120,000. Back in town, Laura’s husband Dave shares his thoughts about regional travel by puddle-jumper plane to and from San Pedro and the rest of the country and why it’s such a unique and safe experience. Then you’ll make a stop at one of the island’s best cocktail bars, perfect for a cocktail at sunset, and another at the island’s “must-stop-at” dive bar, Crazy Canuck’s. You’ll meet the owner, Rob, who explains how he came to Belize with just $50,000 and was able to open one of the island’s most successful businesses—a great place to meet expats and locals alike when you travel to the island.

5 professional videos to introduce you to Placencia:

You’ll start with a birds-eye view of the beautiful 16-mile-long Placencia peninsula, with gorgeous turquoise water on either side and the mystical Maya mountains off in the distance. Historically a series of remote fishing villages, you’ll still find only about 6,000 residents on the peninsula itself...about 1,500 of them in picturesque Placencia village. The stunning beaches will take your breath away. If you’re a watersports lover...a fisherman, diver, snorkeler...or you just like to while away the hours with an ocean view, this is the place for you.

Discover beaches, businesses, and bungalows—Where are the best beachside spots to grab a bite or a cold drink? Maybe rent a paddleboard or jet ski? You’ll discover that and more, and also see some of the beachfront hotels and guesthouses where you can stay for under $40 a night. You’ll see neighborhoods popular with expats and some typical island homes. And if you’re looking for that “Zen” beach experience, Laura takes you to the gorgeous North Beach area, a residential area with a stunning beach you’ll often have all to yourself. This is where Laura lives, and she gives you a guided tour of her home and business. You’ll see how you can cheaply, but chicly, build your own home here. And you won’t believe how little it costs to rent an upscale 3-bedroom condo. Pack your bags...

Take a tour of the business heart of the village—Just north of the village, you’ll find Atlantic Bank and Top Value Supermarket, where you can buy all your local and imported groceries. Laura explains how shopping like a local can save you money, and she directs you to the local pharmacy where you can get your prescriptions filled easier and more affordably than in the U.S. or Canada. Meet Bobby, the proprietor of popular Buba Wuba’s bar and grill and get his advice on starting a business here. By the way, if you’d like to park your boat in your front yard, Laura points you to the neighborhood where you can do exactly that.

Happy hours and happy living—Is Belize the Wild West? Somewhat... Laura and her husband Dave explain the duties (and leniencies) of the tourist police. They discuss the price of gasoline, show you where to set up your cable TV, and even pop into the local hardware store. After all that, it’s time for Happy Hour, the most popular part of the day in Belize. Don’t miss the Pickled Parrot. Laura speaks to owners Walter and Melinda, and they explain why they chose Belize. You’ll also see the Placencia airport, where regional aircraft (true puddle-jumpers) will fly you to Belize City and beyond.

Explore the art and culture—Like to shop? You’ll find a different kind of shopping experience in Placencia. Laura introduces you to local artisans using local hardwoods to make handcrafted furniture, accessories, jewelry, and more. She shows you where to buy fresh produce and even explains what the island is missing when it comes to shopping...although we have a feeling you won’t miss it at all. And meet Frankie, a legendary local character who landed here on a sailboat in 1968 . He explains a bit of the “morality and freedom of expression” of the local culture...not what you might expect.

★Special Addition to your Spotlight on Belize: After you’ve seen all that Belize has to offer you, there’s no doubt the wheels will start turning. If Belize is calling you, we’ve included a special overview presentation that explains everything you need to know to make your home in Belize.

It’s called Belize: An Easy Transition to an English-Speaking Rustic Paradise. In it, Laura drills down into the nuts-and-bolts details of making a life in Belize, benefits and challenges alike. She explains your housing options, provides a general overview of climate and weather, and other considerations for making a long-term life here. Discover the steps to take to make a home in Belize. It’s easier than you think.

But that’s not all...

You Also Get the New Digital Edition of the Comprehensive Manual: Escape to Belize: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less

International Living Belize correspondent Laura Diffendal recently finished a complete overhaul and update of the hefty and all-encompassing 202-page manual, Escape to Belize: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less.

As you’ll see when you watch the Spotlight videos, Laura is not one to just scratch the surface. In this newest edition of the Escape to Belize manual, she gives you every detail…all the nuances, tips, insider secrets, and every little tidbit that normally slips between the cracks…everything you need to know if you're considering relocating to Belize.

She explains exactly what you need to do to qualify for the Belize Qualified Retired Person (QRP) Program. This is the latest information straight from Laura’s contacts in the Belize government. It's verified and up to date. (That's important, as much of what you'll find in an internet search can be dangerously outdated.)

What's more, she explains how you can become a permanent resident of Belize, which offers you even more advantages, including the ability to work and earn an income there.

If you're interested in finding your place in the Caribbean sun…but you'd rather not pay typical Caribbean prices…you need this manual in hand.

Here's Just Some of What You'll Discover in Your Escape to Belize Manual:

Location, location, location. You'll learn about the top spots in Belize for expats…including Ambergris Caye and Placencia, but also others you may have never heard of, including a quiet, tidy town on the ocean (but with all the amenities you need) where you can live more than comfortably on $1,950 per month or less, including rent… (Chapter 2)
Contacts, contacts, contacts. From expat organizations in Belize to those people who can help you streamline your move… Laura gives you names and contact info, so you'll have both business and social circles in Belize before you ever leave home. (Appendix A—your complete Belize Resource Rolodex)

How much you can expect to pay for things like telephone, internet, cable TV, and household help…including a gardener. Remember, in the tropics, one plant can quickly turn into a jungle. You'll be happy to have affordable help in your garden! (Chapter 5)
The nitty gritty details about healthcare in Belize: the country's best public and private hospital options, where to get medical insurance, the ins and outs of evacuation policies, how to get your prescription medications, and more. (Chapter 6)
What about moving your household goods to Belize…does it make sense? What are the best shipping companies? What about your pets? All the information you need about these important issues is found in Chapter 7.
What about taxes? Income taxes, sale tax, capital gains tax…business taxes for you entrepreneurs. All your obligations, exemptions, and benefits are fully explained in Chapter 8.
When you travel to Belize, you'll want to make the most of your time and money. You’ll get all the details of where to go, how to get there, how much it will cost…from hotels to restaurants to shopping…and you’ll discover how to save big time on all your travel expenses. Chapters 11 and 12.
And of course, in Chapter 3, we provide detailed information about real estate in Belize. What the buying process is like…where to go and who to talk to in order to find the best bargains… I’ve already explained that prices for a nice, well-situated condo on Ambergris Caye start at about $120,000. And you’ll find similar, sometimes even lower, prices in Placencia. But look beyond these areas to find even better deals. In northern Belize, the Corozal area—on the ocean—is a bargain hunter’s hotspot. A brand-new two-bedroom home, built of gorgeous Belizean mahongany can be had for just $99. In the interior Cayo district you’ll find similarly low prices. Want to live self-sufficiently? A 25-acre parcel of riverfront land, bordering the Mopan River near San Ignacio Town in Cayo, is selling for just $125,000. And all these prices, of course, are well negotiable.

By the way, global real estate analyst Ronan McMahon says he expects you’ll see big discounts in Belize as we emerge from the current global crisis.

“Belize has always attracted those looking to escape the crowds, get back to nature, and enjoy an excellent quality of life,” he says. “Once travel is back it will be business as usual in that regard. What will have changed is that you will be able to buy real estate at 30%, or more, off.”

Because I Feel So Strongly That All of Belize Deserves Your Attention Right Now, I’ll Also Give You Two Very Special Bonus Videos—for FREE

What will happen as the pandemic subsides? My guess is that even more people will be purposefully looking for a safe haven. And that’s exactly what you’ll find in Belize, where the “live and let live” culture, the accommodating climate, low population and low cost of living, and wide-open spaces beckon...not to mention the stunning Caribbean landscape.

But Belize is more than islands and coastline, as I’ve explained. Little more than 90 minutes from the coast is the Cayo District. If you’re looking to truly escape from the rest of the world and live a bountifully simple life, turn your attention here. Instead of beaches, you’ll find mountains, rivers, waterfalls, caves, and ruins. You can spend your days hiking, biking, canoeing, tubing, and more. You can spread out, live off the land if you like, and truly enjoy life. And prices for just about everything are lower than you’ll find on the coast and islands. Expat couples report a monthly budget of just $1,600 covers it all.

When you order Spotlight on Belize now, we’ll give you, for FREE, two special videos to help you understand the potential of this unique region:

Low-Cost, Laidback Rural Cayo is a special video that takes you to San Ignacio and Santa Elena, the two picturesque side-by-side hamlets that anchor the Cayo district in the Macal River Valley. You’ll see the gorgeous landscape firsthand and learn what this geographically rich part of Belize has to offer you.

Destination Cayo: Happiness Found in Belize’s Heartland is an additional special video created for you by International Living senior editors Dan Prescher and Suzan Haskins. They first travelled to Belize 30 years ago and they know the country well. “If I were looking for a bolt hole easily accessible to the U.S. but far from the stress and uncertainties of the rest of the world, Cayo is a place I’d seriously consider,” says Dan. “There’s plenty of fresh water and large swaths of very fertile land. You’ll never go hungry here. If you love nature and the outdoors, I can’t think of a better place.” In this video, Dan and Suzan drill deep and give you insights to this opportunity-rich region that you won’t find anywhere else.

Get Started Today, Crafting Your New, Better Tomorrow in Belize. Reserve Your Copy of Spotlight on Belize: The Low-Cost Caribbean Safe Haven

Just to re-cap, here's everything you get as part of your Spotlight on Belize:

Online access to the 10 professional videos that take you on a virtual tour of both Ambergris Caye and Placencia. These are yours to access any time, from anywhere, as long as you like.
The special video presentation, Belize: An Easy Transition to an English-Speaking Rustic Paradise that hands you the details about making a life in Belize...general cost of living and where to live to reduce your expenses, climate overview, housing options, and more.
The newly updated 202-page manual Escape to Belize: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less (Value: $99)
The two special Cayo videos, Low-Cost, Laidback Rural Cayo and Destination Cayo: Happiness Found in Belize’s Heartland. To round out your research on Belize, these are free with my compliments.

I guarantee this valuable information will fast track and streamline your travel or move to Belize. (More about our rock-solid money-back International Living guarantee in just a moment.)

Get it all and get started now. As soon as you place your order we'll send you an email that explains how to access all of it…the comprehensive manual and all the Special Videos that introduce you, up close and personal, to the best that Belize has to offer you.

All this will be available to you online…digitally…so you'll have access to it as soon as your order has processed.

Click the "Add to Cart" button now to get started.

Now, about that guarantee: We're so confident that you'll be so pleased with what you find in your Spotlight on Belize that we're giving you a 30-day, no-hassle, money-back guarantee. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied with the depth and breadth of information you find in Spotlight on Belize that we'll refund your purchase within 30 days, no questions asked. No matter what you decide, your special Bonus Videos are yours to keep.

With this risk-free guarantee, you have nothing to lose.

Just click the "Add to Cart" button now to get Spotlight on Belize on the way to you immediately for just $119.

Spotlight on Belize is the best resource available to help you get to know the very best of the Caribbean paradise that is Belize. The next best thing to being there in person right now, you’ll see it all via video. And in the Escape to Belize manual, you’ll discovering all the nuts and bolts details you need to make Belize your home—how to find a place to live, qualify for that benefit-rich QRP retirement program and obtain your residence visa, your healthcare options, and much more.

You'll see for yourself how to invest, travel, live, retire, and start a new business in Belize. Spotlight on Belize will show you the way…

Keep in mind…this special guide to "all that is Belize" is the result of seven years of research by International Living correspondent Laura Diffendal, who maintains homes and businesses on both Ambergris Caye and Placencia.

Think how much it would cost you to travel to Belize and dig up all this information yourself. For sure it would take months and thousands of dollars to compile. I can guarantee you won't find anything like it on the Internet or in a bookshop.

And when you are able to travel to Belize, you’ll be well prepared, thanks to the guidance you get in Spotlight on Belize. You’ll know exactly where to go, what to see, and who to reach out to for guidance and assistance. (You’ll find Laura’s email address in your Spotlight on Belize materials so you can reach out to her directly, any time, with any follow-up questions you have.)

So go ahead: Try it out. From the comfort of your home, explore everything Belize has to offer…

But hurry, this excellent-value deal is only available for a limited time.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Stevens
Executive Editor, International Living
August 2021

P.S. Simply click the "Add to Cart" button now to get Spotlight on Belize on the way to you immediately for just $119.

These 10 new special videos created for you by IL correspondent Laura Diffendal, the 202-page Escape to Belize manual, and the two bonus videos showcasing the Cayo District are not available anywhere else. If you’re interested in planning for the future and getting the inside track on Belize…in gaining a foothold in one of the most beautiful and affordable destinations in the Caribbean, if not the world...let us help you.

With International Living's rock-solid money-back guarantee, you have nothing to lose. And much to gain.

Click on "Add to Cart" to let me know where to send your package.

Spotlight on Spain

Wed, 31 May 2023 09:16:35 GMT

Late to Rise...and Late to Bed

And in Between, a Long Lunch, An Afternoon Siesta, and a Starlit Alfresco Dinner With Friends...

Is Spain, as Hemingway Once Called it, ''The Last Good Country Left?''

Stunning vistas, an idyllic Mediterranean climate, glorious food, wine...and oh so affordable, a couple can live on $2,500 a month (rent, healthcare included!)

Dear Reader,

No one pays much attention to time in Spain.

In fact, for 8 decades now, the country has been in the “wrong” time zone.

Spain sits directly south of Great Britain. When it’s noon in London, it should be noon in Madrid.

But about 80 years ago, Spain moved its clocks to align with Rome...and it’s never been inclined to switch back.

That means the sun both rises and sets an hour later in Spain. Daylight stretches longer into the evening hours.

Mornings start at 9 with café solo...strong black coffee usually served in a small glass...or a cortado of milk and espresso...

At 2 pm everything stops for the day’s big meal. Restaurants dish up an appetizer, entrée, wine or beer, dessert and coffee, all for a fixed price of about $12 or less...delicious homemade food with locally sourced ingredients (and no added tax or tipping).

Lighter dinners are taken alfresco with friends and family somewhere between 8 and 10 pm, typically small shared plates...tapas...of olives, Manchego cheese, patatas bravas, croquettes stuffed with ham or salted cod that keep coming until you push away...washed down by a cold Sangria or sparkling glass of Cava...

In between is siesta...the afternoon nap.

Siesta is serious business. When the Spanish government tried to abolish it in 2006 (most businesses shut down during siesta), public officials were nearly charged with treason.

To be fair, not everyone in Spain takes siesta, especially in the big cities.

But venture into the countryside and to the golden beaches of the south and you will find the siesta alive and well.

It’s ingrained tradition to a culture that’s unhurried and relaxed...except during fiestas, of course, when merrymaking takes precedence over everything else...

Time, you see, is valued in Spain. The Spanish treat it like food and wine, as something to be savored.

And that’s why expats there ...dating back to Hemingway, who proclaimed it “the last good country left”...are adamant that there is no place better to be.

You can leave Spain, but Spain will never leave you.

I’m Jackie Flynn, International Living publisher.

If you’ve been to Spain, you know why it was Ernest Hemingway’s adopted home and the setting for so many of his classic novels.

He famously called it “the country that I loved more than any other except my own.”

Steeped in tradition and romantic Old-World charm, Spain is rich in culture, landscapes, and history.

We can thank the Phoenicians for Spain’s robust red wines and fine whites...and the Romans for the countless ruins...of aqueducts, temples, and palaces...that adorn Spain’s cities and countryside...

Give a nod to the Celts for the cozy fishing villages and ciders of the northwest (legend has it the Irish Celts actually originated in Spain)...

And the Moors are to thank for the beautiful tile work and exotic architecture along Spain’s coast, where you’ll find 3,000 miles of beaches and coves...

There are spectacular mountain ranges, charming fishing villages and a rustic countryside dotted with vineyards, almond and olive groves...

(...and I almost forgot the cheese... oh my goodness, those delicious cheeses...)

No wonder Spain has long dominated the World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards, akin to the Academy Awards for cuisine. It’s home to 7 of the world’s top restaurants.

Looking for the world’s best paella? Love Manchego cheese, jamon iberico, green olives stuffed with almonds, anchovies, or garlic?

It’s all there for you, and you can wash it down with a cold craft cerveza or Sidra (cider), a tasty glass of Rioja or Sangria...or sherry or vermouth from the tap...

Not to be an enabler, but to share an interesting piece of trivia: According to the World Bank, alcohol prices in Spain are among the lowest in the world.

Away from the tourist trail, a tapas plate will run you only $2-$3....a bit more if you add shrimp, calamari, mussels, or clams. Even in the biggest cities, a glass of beer or wine can be had for less than $2.

Overall, the cost of living in Spain is among the lowest in Europe, even in its biggest cities.

To live comfortably in a big city like Madrid or Barcelona a couple might expect to spend between €1,700-$1,850 ($1,700-$1,850) per month at today’s equal conversion rates.

In smaller towns and villages, your costs can be even lower, from about $1,500 a month.

And the quality of life is hard to beat.

“Any reasonable, sentient person who looks at Spain, comes to Spain, eats in Spain, drinks in Spain, they’re going to fall in love. Otherwise, there’s something deeply wrong with you. This is the dream of all the world,” said Anthony Bourdain.

“You know, work in the morning, have a one-hour nap in the afternoon, at night go out and have that life. Go out and see your friends and eat tapas and drink red wine and be in a beautiful place.”

I don’t know anyone who would disagree with that.

But What Could Your Life Be Like in Spain?
Let Us Show You.

There’s never been a better time to spend time or live in Spain.

That’s why, not too long ago, I reached out to our International Living correspondent in Spain, Marsha Scarbrough.

For more than five years, she’s been our eyes and ears in Spain.

She’s been to every corner of the country—from the Basque region in the north to Costa del Sol and Costa Brava in the south...from Barcelona and Catalonia to Madrid and the rolling hills of Spain’s vast interior.

Formerly a Hollywood Assistant Director who produced major movies and tv shows, Marsh has interviewed dozens and dozens of expats about life in Spain...retirees, business owners , permanent vacationers, digital nomads...

So when I wanted someone to go out and capture real expat life for readers like you, there was no one more qualified...

As she says,

“Spain ticks a lot of boxes on my list: warm weather, affordable cost of living, great food, wonderful wine, fascinating culture, dependable infrastructure, and most important: warm, welcoming people.

“Without a doubt, moving here was one of the smartest decisions I’ve ever made. Today, my social life is on fire. My health is fantastic. I’m learning a new language. I’m seeing the world. I have more friends than I can count, most of them 30 or 40 years younger than me. My late-life adventure is in full swing.”

You’ll find her attitude infectious. She’s all about finding joy and embracing life. Which is really what made Spain perfect for her in the first place.

So when I wanted someone to go out and capture real expat life for readers like you, there was no one more qualified than Marsha...

There are plenty of tourism videos you can find on the internet, for sure, but we were after the real-world “Inside story,” told from an expat point of view.

Little did I know that the impressive collection Marsha and her crew created for you would now be more relevant than ever.

If you’re ready to get back in gear and make plans for your future, as many of us are doing today after more than two long years of lockdowns, you’ll want to take a serious look at Spain.

And there’s no one better to show you the “insider’s Spain” and explain its secrets than Marsha.

Whether you’re looking to retire...or just spend time there...

If you’re ready for a new life...or just want to spice up the one you currently have...

If you want to start a business...or work online...or invest there...

Or if you just want to soak up the colorful culture and reconnect with a gentler, happier way of life...no matter your age and on any budget...

Then get ready to discover Spain’s secrets...

Let Marsha Scarbrough Give You a Personal, Guided Tour of the Spain That Could Be Yours... and You Don’t Even Have to Leave Your Home

Maybe you’ve already been to Spain. If you have, you know it’s a magical place.

If you haven’t been there, put it at the top of your bucket list right now.

And before you go, settle in and immerse yourself in the real-life Spain Marsha knows so well...

Mediterranean beach towns where you can enjoy warm sunshine nearly every day of the year, and where English is commonly spoken
Little-known neighborhoods in culturally rich cities where your rent...sometimes including utilities...can be less than $500 a month
The jewel of the Atlantic Coast, near the border with France—a favorite of young European travelers for its inexpensive amenities
Secret spots where you can buy a beach home or condo for a small fraction of the cost of similar properties in the U.S....and with very low-interest (less than 2%) financing.

Let her introduce you to the art and culture, the people, and the fun places and activities that await you in top-quality, low-cost Spain.

She reveals all the secrets in this brand-new multi-series documentary project, called Spotlight on Spain: Old World Charm, Sunny Skies, and Low-Cost Living.

This has been no small undertaking. And it’s far more than just a few videos...

Marsha has spent years getting to know the ins and outs of life in Spain...and the best places there.

But don’t worry... while Marsha has her favorites (and will tell you what they are)... this video series is really about YOU and helping you find YOUR perfect Spain depending on the “perfect lifestyle” you want.

Do you want the quiet life of a small town perched among the vineyards and olive groves of the Spanish countryside?

Or do you prefer the buzz of an Old-World city chock full of museums, top-rated restaurants, and non-stop nightlife?

Or maybe you just want to soak up the sun on the beach and leave behind the snow, the damp, and the cold forever...

Marsha can help you narrow down your choices to pinpoint your perfect spot.

(By the way, as I mentioned, she worked in Hollywood for 20 years as an Assistant Director on movies and TV projects. She’s also the author of two award-winning novels. She knows how to both inform and entertain.)

For this project, she dug deep and called on expats and locals alike living in many of Spain’s most appealing but also little-known communities.

In this exclusive multi-part project, you’ll get a in depth view into their lives......benefits and challenges alike.

Marsha has also put together a comprehensive primer presentation that guides you through all those nuts-and-bolts details you’ll need to consider if you’re thinking of moving to Spain yourself.

She explains how to get that all-important resident visa...how to assess your healthcare options...how to find the best rentals...and she shows you exactly how much things cost in Spain.

You’ll be pleasantly surprised there.

$2,500 a month or less for a couple to live in Spain, rent and health plan included.

You’ll also find other insightful details that are hard to uncover anywhere else, such as:

Where to find the best-quality, lowest-cost property rentals—and the best website to search for them
The most important question to ask when looking at rental apartments
The easiest expat resident visas, and documents you need to qualify
How to navigate your super-affordable healthcare and insurance options
The best places to live if you don’t want a car
Where to find 320 days of sunshine every year
Which city has the BEST nightlife for folks over 50...plus the city with the largest concentration of Michelin-star restaurants
How and where you can live on half as much as what you’re spending now...and enjoy a far better quality of life

And much, much more, including...

Spain’s Top Destinations for Good-Value Living...

Let’s start with Spain’s most popular destination...

Maybe you’ve spent time in Barcelona—the capital of Catalonia—and strolled La Rambla or through the atmospheric maze of the medieval Gothic Quarter or the bohemian barrio of El Raval...

An intoxicating medley of old and new, Barcelona oozes color, culture, and creativity. It’s a place where you can enjoy everything from cheap eats to fine dining, a day at the beach or a night of high culture...

Food markets burst with Catalan produce and fresh seafood. Home to some of the best tapas bars on the planet, Barcelona is also known for fragrant, flavorful paella topped with juicy shrimp, meaty squid, a delicious scattering of mussels, and slices of lemon.

And while Barcelona is not Spain’s lowest-cost destination, it’s a bargain compared with many European cities... especially considering all the city offers (including a much better climate than Paris, London, Berlin, or Rome).

We’ll point you to Barcelona’s under-the-radar neighborhoods for good living.

But even in a trendy neighborhood like Barceloneta, with its low-rise, Greenwich Village feel (plus walking distance to one of Barcelona’s most popular beaches), you can find small, one-bedroom apartments in the €120,000 to €200,000 ($120,000 to $200,000) range.

Or rent a two-bedroom, two-bath apartment in a prime location starting at about $900 a month.

And don’t overlook Spain’s historic capital city...

Beyond Barcelona, many travelers begin their Spain adventure in Madrid. And some, like Marsha Scarbrough, end up staying there and making the capital city their home.

Marsha she says...

“Madrid is Europe’s Best Kept Secret”

“Life in this pulsing, sophisticated metropolis, with world-class museums, amazing gastronomy, off-the-chart nightlife….and possibly the best public transportation system in the world…costs a fraction of what it would cost you to live in New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, London or Tokyo.”

Madid is the Europe’s driest capital, Marsha adds, with only 16.6 inches of annual rainfall, most of it in Spring and Fall. Winters are mild. And summers are for nightlife, with cafés and parks full to overflowing after dark.

Free concerts start at 10 p.m. Some nightclubs open at midnight and close at 6 a.m. Madrid, a city that radiates energy, knows how to party.

That doesn’t mean you won’t find plenty to do during daylight hours.

Madrid is known for its museums....the world-famous Prado among them, home to works by El Greco, Rubens, Bosch, Goya, Picasso, and more.

The city’s diversity shines in its neighborhoods.

In Spotlight on Spain, Marsha points you to the “best of the best” of Madrid’s famous barrios.

She explains how much apartment rentals go for...you’ll be shocked at how little she pays for her bright-and-pretty studio apartment in safe, historic Chamberi.

You’ll see it for yourself and get the inside line on what you, too, can expect to spend if you choose to live in Madrid, arguably the best-value urban center in Western Europe

As Marsha says, “I’ve never been a morning person, so I love the late-to-rise, late-to-bed culture of Madrid. There is nowhere else I’d rather live.”

Prefer Sunrise To Nightlife? Spain Has Something For You, Too, Including Thousands of Miles of Sundrenched Beaches...

Prefer From the Costa del Sol to the Costa Blanca and beyond, you’ll find some of the Mediterranean’s
most beguiling beaches ...

The Sun Coast... Southern Spain’s glorious Costa del Sol—the Sun Coast—runs along the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

Strumming guitars, flamenco dancers, bullfighting, Moorish palaces... It’s all here...

You won’t find any beach destinations anywhere with so much culture to enjoy.

Many expat from the colder-climate U.K., come here to retire.

Love Both Beaches and Mountains? Granada Might Be Your Place.

An hour by bus from Málaga up into the snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains, reams of poetry and prose have been written about the beauty of Granada.

And it deserves every word. Beneath the towers of the Palace of Alhambra lie the winding streets of the medieval Moorish quarter where you’ll feel as though you’ve stumbled into an Arab bazaar. While Granada attracts fewer expats than other cities in Spain, you’ll find a significant student population and over two million tourists a year.

Live in Granada and you’ll also be near some of Spain’s best ski slopes. From here, you can ski and go to the beach on the same day.

Part 8 of the Spotlight on Spain series takes you, up close, to Granada.

(In other words, you’ll find more native English speakers here than in any other part of Spain.)

In resort towns like Marbella, you’ll find golf courses that rival Pebble Beach, shopping that rivals Rodeo Drive, and marinas full of luxury yachts.

Don’t let the ritzy trappings fool you—even trendy Marbella is very affordable.

Properties for sale start at around $125,000 US for a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment about a 10-minute walk from the beach and promenade.

And just 30 miles east along the coast is Nerja, and the “Balcony of Europe” where white-washed homes atop a rocky promontory overlook 10 miles of sugary white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters below.

If this isn’t on your radar, it should be.

Nerja, too, is “authentic Spain,” (no McDonald’s or Starbucks allowed) with a charming Old Town, which is the perfect place to meet friends and enjoy wine and tapas at the end of the day.

About 30% of its 25,000 inhabitants are expats, mostly Brits and Swedes.

When you go, don’t miss a visit to the famous Cuevas (caves) de Nerja, home to the world’s largest stalactite and only discovered in 1959.

The White Coast... Continuing along the coast, around the Cabo de Gata peninsula is where you’ll find the Costa Blanca—the white coast.

Alicante (population 350,000) and Valencia (Spain’s third largest city with 800,000 people) are the anchor cities here.

You can walk Valencia’s beautiful historic center, one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved, end-to-end in about 45 minutes.

The smaller Alicante offers Old World Spanish flair similar to Madrid...think late lunches and dinners...with most stores and offices shutting down for a three-hour afternoon siesta.

In its centuries-old Old Town with narrow cobbled-stone passageways, you can duck into a traditional tapas bar for spicy patatas bravas and a plate of stuffed calamari washed down with a $2 beer or a $12 bottle of Rioja.

And Alicante is home to no less than eight splendid beaches...

No wonder it’s an expat favorite, especially with Brits and Northern Europeans. As much as 15% of the permanent population are expats.

It doesn’t hurt that you can rent a two- or three-bedroom apartment in the heart of the historic center starting at $550 to $625 a month.

The treasure of the Costa Blanca, though, is its 125 miles coastline, studded with small jewel-like pueblos and relaxed beach resorts that attract expats looking for a quieter lifestyle.

One such town is Dénia. Largely unknown foreigners, it’s a beloved “secret getaway place” for Spaniards from Madrid and other big cities who adore its narrow old-town streets, lined with bars and restaurants.

It’s easy to while away an evening over dinner, watching the people out on their evening walk—called a paseo—under the blossoming jacaranda trees and towering date palms that punctuate the handsome 19th-century architecture.

One couple from Denver that was lucky enough to find their way here rent a bright three-bedroom, three-bathroom duplex apartment. Each room has a view of the sea. There are four terraces, the largest of which has space for a table, chairs, lounge area, and barbecue.

“It’s great value here compared to the U.S.,” they say. “This all comes in at less than $1,000 a month in rent. Utilities are very affordable compared to the States, too. We downsized when we came, just bringing what we could fit into a couple of suitcases. We’re really happy with the light feeling of living like this.”

You need to see it for yourself. And you will, in your Spotlight on Spain docu-series...

ATTENTION FOODIES: Northern Spain is for You... (Bonus if You’re After Four Seasons and a Healthy Dose of History)

True foodies will head directly to Northern Spain and particularly to Basque Country, where growing, preparing, and savoring delicious local food ingredients is the regional pastime.

Here, it often feels like the clock stopped in the Middle Ages. The mountains hide Romanesque chapels and shrines, and also bears, wolves, wild boar, and eagles.

Along the northern Atlantic Coast beaches of the Bay of Biscay you’ll find a mild climate similar to Northern California.

This is also where you’ll find Galicia and the northern route of the Camino de Santiago, the famous pilgrimage to the burial place of Saint James. That’s what brings most tourists to the region.

Major cities here include Bilbao, Santander, and San Sebastián—the true gourmand’s paradise.

In cozy pintxo bars, choose slices of bread stacked with béchamel-topped crab...field mushrooms sautéed in garlic and olive oil...or skewers of anchovy-filled olives...

Wash them down with the local sparkling white wine txakoli or crisp hard cider.

For glamour, sophistication, gastronomy, and sheer beauty, San Sebastián and its perfect horseshoe beach, is hard to beat. But for lower property prices, head to Santander or one of its pretty nearby beach towns.

While Santander lacks the high gloss and chicness of a resort like San Sebastián, depending on the neighborhood, you can buy a comfortable 700-square-foot apartment starting below $100,000 or rent one long term from about $500 a month.

Like what you’re hearing?

Discover, Firsthand, What Your Life in Spain Could Be...

If you’re ready to take a look at Spain...up close and personal, and from the comfort of your home, there’s no better resource than the multi-video collection—Spotlight on Spain: Old World Charm, Sunny Skies, and Low-Cost Living.

It’s everything you’ve ever wanted to know about living in Spain as an expat...whether it’s full time...part time... or retirement...or just for a few months...

You’ll travel along with Marsha and her professional video crew as she introduces you to the best communities in Spain that make for easy and affordable expat living.

Marsha believes these destinations are well worth your attention right now.

Dig Into Spotlight on Spain: Old World Charm, Sunny Skies, and Low-Cost Living and Find Your Perfect Place in Spain

Marsha takes you by the hand and not only introduces you to “her” Spain, but she gives you the tools to make it “your Spain” in this 9-part info-doc series:

PART 1: Madrid—Europe’s Best-Kept Secret. Begin your tour in Spain’s capital city—Marsha’s adopted home. Costs to live here are a fraction of what you would spend in other popular cities around the world. And thanks to an excellent public transportation system, you won’t need a car. Marsha shows some of the city’s most popular neighborhoods for good-value living; you’ll see the bustling streets, shady parks, history, art, and culture that make Madrid so unique.
PART 2: A Day in the Life of an Expat. Staying in Madrid, join Marsha as she goes about her daily activities...a morning Zumba class, errands at the pharmacy and bakery, Spanish class, and a long stop for lunch (the main meal of the day in Spain). You’ll also see what it’s like to take the metro, and meet up with Marsha and her friends for evening drinks.
PART 3: Málaga—The Heart of Spain’s Costa del Sol This city is the heart of Spain’s sunshine coast. You’ll take a city tour and meet expats there who explain why they love this city. You’ll learn about their new life and business and see the new seaside promenade. Once known as a scruffy seaport, all that has changed in recent years. Don’t overlook Málaga, an attractive welcoming center of culture and gastronomy… For full- or part-time living, Málaga is a great choice if you want big-city life by the sea.
PART 4: Nerja—The Balcony of Europe Just 30 miles east of Málaga you’ll find a much less developed and less touristed coastline. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, Nerja is a sightseer’s delight, with 10 miles of sugary white beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll meet Canadian expats Carolyn and Chris who explain why the climate, the culture, and the people sparked their love of Nerja. They also share their experiences with the Spanish healthcare system.... real-world insights I guarantee you’ll appreciate.
PART 5: : Costa del Sol Home Tour Canadian expats David and Josée have lived in Spain for 20 years. That’s a lot of experience to share. Take a tour of the beautiful home they carefully renovated and watch and listen as they explain why they chose this sunny region and how very affordable it is to live here very well on a modest pensioner budget.
PART 6: Alicante—Spain’s Costa Blanca Bargain The city of Alicante has 330,000 permanent residents that swells during the summer months, when Spaniards enjoy their vacation homes and other European tourists flock to the inviting seashore. About 15% of the permanent residents are expats, many of them English speakers. One of the reasons this area is so popular is because it’s one of Spain’s best real estate bargains. See for yourself as you visit properties for sale with a local real estate agent.
PART 7: The Cities of Valencia and Barcelona Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, is the gem of the Costa Blanca—with much to offer, including one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved historic centers. And who doesn’t love Barcelona, perhaps Spain’s most vibrant and artistic city? Gaudí’s signature is everywhere…but he is only one of the reasons that Spain’s second largest city attracts so many tourists. This is your chance to see, up close, the different appeal of these two seaside cities.
PART 8: Fairy-Tale Granada and High-End Marbella Granada is fairy-tale Spain. Set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, its exotic Arabian spirit and flamenco soul conjure up visions of times past. In the winter, an hour’s drive away takes you to the Sierra Nevada Ski Resort, or head south for 45 minutes to the balmy Mediterranean Sea. Marbella, “pearl of the Costa del Sol” has a different kind of beauty. The name itself literally translates as “beautiful sea,” and indeed, it is that. A high-end, international, jet-set destination, Marbella’s beachfront promenade invites sunning on the sand, sitting in sidewalk cafés, or shopping in trendy boutiques.
PART 9: Green Spain: Great Food and Milder Climes Prefer cooler summers and lush green landscapes? Then consider Northern Spain, also known as “Green” or “Celtic Spain.” Bilbao—the region’s largest city—is a center of modern art and architecture. San Sebastián is famous for its charming Old Town, first-class restaurants, and a gorgeous golden beach, considered one of Europe’s most beautiful urban beaches. Farther west, you’ll discover the scenic province of Cantabria and its capital, Santander. Perched on the edge of a gorgeous bay, this smaller city offers a dozen beaches with crystal clear waters, including the exquisite Playa de Sardinero.

I did mention that Marsha Scarbrough is an award-winning author and Hollywood director, right?

This 9-part docu-series is beautifully produced. And you’ll find Marsha is as comfortable in front of the camera as she is behind it. She’s an excellent guide, and her spirit and love of Spain are infectious.

★Special Extra: Once you see all that Spain has to offer you, no doubt the cogs will be turning.

You’ll appreciate this special extra bonus from Marsha-a “nuts-and-bolts” overview presentation with everything you need to know to make your home in Spain.

It’s called Spain: First-World Comfort in a Sunny Safe Haven.

In it, Marsha explains your housing options, provides all those important details (including climate and weather, cost of living, etc.) to help you compare and contrast Spain’s distinct regions, and narrow down your many options.

Discover the steps to take to make a home in Spain. With this special video presentation guiding your way, it’s easier than you think.

PLUS, a New, Updated Edition of Our Best-Selling Spain Manual:

Escape to Spain: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less

As you’ll see, Marsha’s not one to just scratch the surface.

She recently finished a full update of our comprehensive manual, Escape to Spain: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less.

In this newest edition, included as part of Spotlight on Spain, she gives you every detail…

...all the local nuances, tips, insider secrets, and every little tidbit that normally slips between the cracks…everything you need to know if you're considering relocating to Spain—full-time or part-time.

It’s the perfect complement to your Spotlight on Spain video collection.

Marsha clarifies the steps to qualify for a resident visa. It’s not complicated, but if you want to stay longer than allowed on a tourist visa (90 days), you have numerous options—and you need to choose the one that’s right for you.

You’ll discover two best options for retirees, two options if you want to work, and two more options for entrepreneurs and investors (the famous “Golden Visa”).

Because visa rules can change at any time the Escape to Spain manual includes a complete Resource Guide with a listing of visa specialists you can contact for assistance.

To get a residence visa you’ll be required to show proof of private health insurance.

So there’s also a full chapter on Healthcare in Spain. By any account, it’s among the best in the world—maybe better than you have now.

And health insurance is remarkably affordable.

A healthy 64-year-old might expect to pay about $132 per month for a plan from one of the country’s largest insurers, with a 4% discount for a lump-sum annual payment. There are no co-pays and basic dental is included.

It’s all there for you—with contact details—in Escape to Spain.

If you're interested in finding your place in an area of Europe known for sunshine and Old-World Charm…but you'd rather not pay typical European prices…you’ll want this manual at hand.

Here's Just Some of What You'll Discover in Escape to Spain :

Location, location, location. You'll learn even more about the top spots in Spain for expats…More than 30 communities are profiled. (Chapter 3)
Contacts, contacts, contacts. From expat organizations to those professionals who can help you streamline your move… (Appendix A—your complete Spain Resource Rolodex)
How much you can expect to pay for things like telephone, internet, cable TV, groceries, rent, and more. (Chapter 6)
The nitty gritty details about healthcare in Spain, ranked as among the world’s best. (Chapter 7)
What about moving your belongings? Your pets? (Chapter 8)
Everything you need to know about taxes. (Chapter 9)
And in Chapter 4, we provide detailed information about real estate in Spain...what the renting and buying processes are like and how to find the best bargains… You’ll see exactly what fees to expect and get a step-by-step guide to every process from negotiating to due diligence—including 11 documents you must obtain from the seller.

If you ever consider buying property in Spain, you want this information at hand

★Global real estate analyst Ronan McMahon says:

“I’ve been watching Spain for a long time, and I’ve seen it go from a place of deep crisis to one where I see some true opportunities for savvy investors in the right places,”

When you order Spotlight on Spain, you have the opportunity to go behind the curtain and discover exactly where those opportunities are...

Because Everyone on Our Team Feels So Strongly That Spain Deserves Your Attention Right Now, I’ll Give You THREE Very Special Bonuses—for FREE

Many people are looking for a safe haven these days.

And that’s exactly what you’ll find in Spain, where the Old-World charm and siesta culture, the accommodating climate, modern infrastructure and excellent healthcare, the low cost of living, and wide-open spaces beckon...along with warm, friendly people.

But we understand that an international relocation can be daunting. There are lots of moving pieces...

So we’re including absolutely everything we can think of that might help you.

Think of this Spotlight on Spain resource as your complete guide to that new, better life you can enjoy in Spain.

Order it now and we’ll give you, for FREE, three special bonuses to point you in the right direction and answer any and all remaining questions you may have:

Special Bonus #1: A Complete Itinerary to Follow As You Travel in Spain

Once you see the Spotlight on Spain videos, I’m pretty sure you’ll be planning a visit to check out your options there for yourself...and we can help.

Whether you have one, two, three weeks or more to explore the opportunities on offer in Spain today—you’ll want to use your time (and travel funds) wisely.

Our Spain Scouting Trip Itineraries and Travel Guide will show you the way.

In this valuable time- and money-saving guide, Marsha shares her most useful tips and insights for planning and enjoying a successful expedition, such as:

Six useful apps to have on your phone to make getting around easier...
A cheap, easy way to get your phone to work in Spain so you avoid expensive carrier charges but gain the conveniences of having a working cell while you’re there...
On-the-ground tips for cheaper train, hotels, home rentals, and air in Spain, plus what you definitely need to know about tickets for some museums to ensure you get the best deal—and get in when you want to, and more...
Seven easy, essential phrases to know in Spanish before you go...
PLUS where to go, what to see, what absolutely not to miss, what’s overrated, what you can expect to pay, and lots, lots more...

You’ll discover how to make the most of your time on the ground, people to connect with, and more.

This guide sells in our bookstore for $59, but it’s yours FREE as part of your Spotlight on Spain.

Special Bonus #2: Mission Spain: The Full Report

Our overseas property expert, Ronan McMahon says, “Spain offers some of the best bargain real estate anywhere in Europe. It’s jam-packed with incredible opportunities both for investors as well as lifestyle buyers.”

Inside his this special report, Ronan, along with his team, takes you—on a profit-minded mission—that scouts out the premier up-and-coming communities along the picture-perfect Spanish Southern Coast—and to one particularly opportunity-rich area dubbed the “Secret Coast” where you can buy for less than $100,000.

Follow along as the team takes you up into the mountains and the beautiful vastness of Cadiz along the Ruta de Pueblos Blancos...to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and Granada.

Make no mistake: This is no static ho-hum “reporting.” There’s in-depth analysis contrasting and comparing each region, links to listing, and boots-on-the-ground video footages so you can see exactly what Ronan's scouts saw and get their take on the opportunities they uncovered.

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a home in Spain...for lifestyle or investment, I highly recommend you spend a few hours immersed in the Mission Spain: The Full Report. That’s how long it will take to get through it all—and well worth it.

Special Bonus #3: Spotlight on Spain Insider Q&A

We know we’re giving you a lot to digest...the videos and presentation from Marsha, the 221-page Escape to Spain manual, and the analysis and videos in Mission Spain...

So we’ll add one more valuable extra.

International Living executive editor Jen Stevens sat down with Spain expert Marsha Scarbrough and Ronan McMahon, head of the team behind Mission Spain.

You’re invited to tune into that conversation and get their take on what’s going on in Spain right now...

It’s a deep dive into some of our readers most common questions and concerns.

This Spotlight on Spain Insider Q&A with our leading Spain experts is valued at $79, but it’s yours with this special offer today, free.

Get Started Today, Crafting Your New, Better Tomorrow in Spain. Reserve Your Copy Now of Spotlight on Spain: Old World Charm, Sunny Skies, and Low-Cost Living

To re-cap, here's everything you get as part of your full Spotlight on Spain collection:

Online access to the 9-part video collection that take you on a virtual tour of the “Best of Spain.” These are yours to access any time, from anywhere, as long as you like.
The special overview presentation, Spain: First-World Comfort in a Sunny Safe Haven that hands you the details about making a life in Spain...visas, healthcare options, general cost of living, and where to live to reduce your expenses, climate overview, housing options, and more.
The updated 221-page manual Escape to Spain: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less
Spain Scouting Trip Itineraries and Travel Guide
The Special Report and Video Package, Mission Spain: The Full Report
Spotlight on Spain Insider Q&A

If the laidback charm of Old-World Europe appeals, there’s no better place than Spain.

Get it all and get started now. As soon as you place your order, we'll send you an email that explains how to access all of it…all the professional videos and the special presentation...the comprehensive manual, the special real estate intelligence, and the itineraries guide and that introduce you, up close and personal, to the best that Spain has to offer you.

All this will be available to you digitally…so you'll have access to it all as soon as your order has processed.

Now, about that guarantee: We're so confident that you'll be so pleased with what you find in your Spotlight on Spain that we're giving you a 30-day, no-hassle, money-back guarantee. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied with the depth and breadth of information you find in Spotlight on Spain, we'll fully refund your purchase within 30 days.

With this risk-free guarantee, you have nothing to lose.

Spotlight on Spain is the best resource available to help you get to know the very best of the Mediterranean paradise that is Spain.

The next best thing to being there in person right now, you’ll see it all via video.

And in the Escape to Spain manual, you’ll discover all the nuts and bolts details you need to make Spain your home—full- or part-time, including how to find a place to live, qualify for a residence visa, navigate your healthcare options, your taxes, and much more.

You'll see for yourself how to invest, travel, live, retire, or work in Spain.

Spotlight on Spain will show you the way…

Keep in mind…this special package to "all that is Spain" is the result of five years of research by International Living contributor Marsha Scarbrough and decades and decades of experience and input from our far-flung editors, real estate experts and analysts, expats in Spain, and many more.

Think how much it would cost you to travel to Spain and dig up all this information yourself. For sure it would take many months and thousands of dollars to compile. I can guarantee you won't find anything like it on the Internet or in a bookshop.

And when you are ready to travel in person to Spain, you’ll be well prepared, thanks to the guidance you get in Spotlight on Spain You’ll know exactly where to go, what to see, and who to reach out to for guidance and assistance or to share a drink at a shady sidewalk café.

Go ahead: Try it out. From the comfort of your home, explore everything Spain has to offer…

I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Stevens
Executive Editor, International Living
July 2022

PS: If you’re interested in investing some time right now to plan for the future and get the inside track on Spain…

If you’re looking to gain a foothold in one of the most beautiful and affordable destinations in western Europe, if not the world...let us help you.

These 9 top-quality videos and the nuts-and-bolts presentation created for you by IL contributor Marsha Scarbrough, the 221-page Escape to Spain manual, and the three additional bonuses are not available anywhere else.

With International Living's rock-solid money-back guarantee, you have nothing to lose.