Spainfully Honest

If you’re working in Spain or thinking about working in Spain and still not quite sure how the system works, you’re not alone. In this episode of Spainfully Honest, we break down social security in Spain in a clear, straightforward way.We cover everything from how to get your social security number to understanding your nómina (payslip) and what it really means to “cotizar” or pay into the social security system.We talk through what you’re actually paying into the system and, more importantly, what you get in return. That includes sick leave, maternity and paternity leave, unemployment benefits, pensions, and some of the lesser-known extras like pagos extra, días de lactancia (lactating days!), and support available for over-55s.Whether you’ve been thinking about moving to Spain, just started working in Spain, or you’ve been here a while and still have questions, this episode will help you make sense of your payslip, your contributions, and your entitlements, without the jargon!If you have any questions about anything we covered or you want more information, just email us at hello@spainfullyhonest.comAs always, thanks for listening! We would really appreciate it if you could leave us a great review and/or subscribe if you don't already.

In this week’s episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine chat with Sarah, who moved from the U.S. to Santander in northern Spain.She talks us through her move to Spain and why she chose Santander, a place that often gets overlooked compared to other parts of the country. They chat about what living in Santander is really like for her day to day, from the climate and pace of life to schools, family life and settling into a new routine.Sarah also shares her experience of finding property in Spain and what employment opportunities are like in this part of Spain, along with the challenges that can come with relocating abroad. It is an honest look at life in Spain beyond the usual hotspots, and what it really takes to build a new life here.If you are thinking about a move to Spain or are curious about living in Spain in a less typical location, this episode offers a real and relatable insight into starting fresh and making it work in Santander!For more information about moving to Santander check out Sarah's website www.movetosantander.com To send any suggestions or questions to Catherine and Paul email hello@spainfullyhonest.comThanks for listening!

This episode of Spainfully Honest looks at what Easter in Spain, or Semana Santa, is really like. Catherine and Paul talk through how it’s celebrated, focusing on the processions you see in towns and cities and how much they can differ depending on where you are.They spend a bit of time explaining the overall feel of the processions, as this is something that often surprises people. Some are quite somber and reflective, while others feel more relaxed and easier to watch, especially if you’re going along with children. They also share some practical advice on how to find information locally and which types of processions might be better suited for families.Food comes into it as well, as it always does. They chat about the traditional Spanish Easter foods you’ll see at this time of year, but also where you can still find the more familiar things like Easter eggs if you’re missing those traditions from home.There’s also a bit of comparison with how Easter is celebrated in their own countries, and how that changes when you’re living in Spain full time. Overall, it’s a straightforward look at what to expect, with a few helpful insights if you’re planning to experience Semana Santa for yourself.Here are some links to apps mentioned during the podcast :El Penitente - Guía Cofrade de Semana Santa | Málaga y SevillasSantaZgz. Turismo de Zaragoza. Ayuntamiento de ZaragozaApps de la Semana Santa para Android: procesiones y másAnd here is the Instagram page for Olga's unique bags: (1) InstagramThanks for watching and Happy Easter!

In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine take a close look at the huge variety of visas you can get to move to Spain. While they cover the familiar ones like work, student, and non-lucrative visas, they also dig into lots of lesser-known options, everything from religious and artistic visas to volunteer and au pair visas. They talk through how to pick the right visa for your situation and point you to helpful resources so you can make sense of the process.If you’ve ever wondered what options are out there beyond the usual, this episode lays it all out.Here is the link they discussed in the episode :Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, Unión Europea y CooperaciónHere is the link to the episode which offers more guidance about visas in Spain also discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5nzu2QRodIsaf2XSW9gUVz?si=WiKyaXstR-2iPnv2oKiRugEmail Paul and Catherine with your suggestions and questions at hello@spainfullyhonest.com

This week on Spainfully Honest, Catherine and Paul look at how Spain celebrates St. Patrick’s Day. From the huge Cabo Roig parade, the biggest in Europe outside of Ireland, to Madrid’s week-long Ireland celebrations, we cover how the Irish community and locals bring Irish culture to life in Spain. They talk about the historical connections between Ireland and Spain, local traditions influenced by Irish culture, and how you can join in yourself, whether that is going to a parade, visiting Irish pubs, or taking part in cultural events. They also share fun details like the myth of Spanish landings in Ireland, and Bloomsday celebrations you might not expect. This episode shows the history, culture, and community behind St. Patrick’s Day in Spain.To email Paul and Catherine your suggestions, email hello@spainfullyhonest.comFor all the details about La Semana de Irlanda/Irish Week/St Patrick's Day in Spain see the following link: ⁠Programa completo Semana de Irlanda 2026 - Google Drive⁠Happy St Patrick's Day...in Spain!

In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Catherine and Paul chat to Ashley and her family all about their move from the United States to Zaragoza and what settling in has really been like for them. They talk through the practical side of relocating to Spain as well as the emotional side, including schooling in Spain, daily life, cultural differences, and how their expectations compared with reality. It is an honest conversation that gives a clear picture of expat life in Zaragoza, Spain, from a family’s perspective, along with thoughtful insights for anyone considering making a similar move.If you would like to hear more from Ashley and family about life in Zaragoza checkout their content here: InstagramContact Catherine and Paul with any questions or suggestions at hello@spainfullyhonest.comJust a quick note that everything shared in this episode is based on personal experience and opinions. Catherine, Paul, and their guests are simply talking about what it was like for them, not giving professional or official advice. If you’re planning a move abroad, it’s always a good idea to do your own research and speak to qualified experts before making any big decisions.

In this week’s episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine chat about what it’s like to live on a golf resort in Spain. They had a great conversation with Carl from Roda Golf Resort Paradigm – Properties, and while they started out talking generally about golf resorts, they ended up getting a really detailed look at life at Roda Golf in Murcia, so it naturally became a bit of a spotlight.They cover everything from property types on a golf course in Spain and community amenities to costs of living and the rental market in Spain at the moment. Whether you’re a golfer or just someone looking for a property on a beautiful, well-kept community, this episode is full of practical tips and honest insights for anyone thinking about making the move to Spain. And it is especially interesting for those looking at golf resorts in Spain.If you would like to reach out to Carl directly his website is: https://www.rodagolfproperties.com/ They also spoke about the semi private school Las Claras del Mar Menor in Los Alcazares, which is very close to Roda Golf. If you would like to listen to that episode here is the link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2i6G8Vwdi1SpGuqgTbmyaw?si=EpzrMUN-QXe_4joXwHF0XQThey also spoke about this being a good time of year to rent on Roda Golf due to availability, so for reference, this was recorded in February 2026.Disclaimer: Carl shared his personal opinions on certain property platforms and other golf resorts, which reflect his experience and perspective. Listeners should do their own research and form their own views when considering property or resort options in Spain.

Thinking about driving in Spain or stressing over Spanish driving license paperwork? This week’s episode is your practical guide to understanding how driving licenses actually work when you live here. We chat through the real steps, real timelines, and real experiences behind getting or renewing a Spanish driving licence, so you know exactly what to expect before you start the process.We break down the rules for EU and non-EU residents and walk through the key stages like medical exams, booking appointments, and submitting documents. If you’ve ever felt confused by Spanish admin, this episode will clear things up in plain English.We also talk honestly about everyday life realities, like when you really do need a car in Spain, why public transport isn’t always reliable outside cities, and how local driving lessons can actually make the transition much smoother, even if you’ve been driving for years.If you’re living in Spain, moving to Spain, or planning the expat life soon, this episode is packed with useful tips to help you drive stress-free on Spain's roads.To get the help sheet created for this episode completely free, just email us at hello@spainfullyhonest.comHere is the link to the DGT website we speak about during the episode: www.dgt.esDisclaimer: The information shared in this episode is based on our personal experiences and general research while living in Spain. We’re not legal or driving licence professionals, and requirements can change or vary depending on individual circumstances. Always check official sources or speak to a qualified professional before making decisions or starting any application process.

In this episode of Spainfully Honest, we talk about two things that are hard to miss right now: Carnaval and Valentine’s Day.With Carnaval taking over towns and cities across Spain, we look at what it’s all about, how it’s celebrated, and why it’s such a big part of Spanish life. From costumes and parades to the social side of it all, it’s a chance to let go, have fun and spend time with other people.We also chat about finding love in Spain, especially as Valentine’s Day is coming up. From dating and relationships to cultural differences and expectations, it’s an honest conversation about what it can really be like when you’re living here.Let us know if you celebrate Carnaval in Spain and how they celebrate in your town. Email us at hello@spainfullyhonest.com

In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine break down digital certificates and digital signatures in Spain. They cover why they matter, how they work, and why they can feel especially confusing when you’re a foreigner dealing with Spanish bureaucracy. Along the way, there are a few cultural observations, personal stories, and a look ahead to what’s coming next, from finding love in Spain to Carnaval season.Of course, there is the usual chit chat about life in Spain, including Catherine recording a segment for an Irish TV show!For the printed guide about this topic, email them at hello@spainfullyhonest.comHere is the link to the website mentioned in the podcast: Cert. Electrónico Ciudadano - SedeAnd here are the numbers to book a Cl@ve appointment 912901340 and 901200351DisclaimerThis podcast is based on the personal experiences of the hosts living in Spain as foreigners. The information shared is intended to be helpful, but it should not be taken as legal, administrative, or professional advice. Rules and procedures can change and may vary depending on where you live. Listeners are encouraged to check official sources or speak to a qualified professional before starting any administrative process.

In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine take a look at the Padrón in Spain and why it matters more than many people realise when living in Spain. They talk through what it is, why you need it, and how to register, including the documents you’ll be asked for and what can catch people out. While the process is undeniably bureaucratic, the conversation focuses on how being prepared makes things far less stressful.And of course, it wouldn’t be Spainfully Honest without the usual banter between the hosts and a few real-life experiences that should help make everything a bit clearer.For our printed guide all about the Padron in Spain, email hello@spainfullyhonest.comPlease note: this episode is intended as a general guide only, based on personal experience. It is not legal or professional advice, and we are not lawyers, gestors, or immigration specialists.

In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine talk through what renewing your TIE (Tarjeta de Identificación de Extranjero) in Spain actually looks like in real life, especially if you’ve been here five years or more. They break down what you need to have ready, why being organised really matters, and how having your paperwork in order can save you a lot of stress later on.They also chat about how much of the process has moved online in recent years, and why getting comfortable with Spain’s digital systems is no longer optional if you want things to go smoothly. Along the way, they share personal experiences, practical tips, and a few hard-earned lessons — including the value of keeping everything in one clearly organised folder and not leaving things until the last minute.The episode also looks at how the renewal process can differ depending on where you’re from, with specific mention of British, American, and Irish residents, and the slightly different hoops each group may need to jump through. Overall, it’s a straightforward, honest guide for anyone trying to navigate Spanish residency without feeling overwhelmed by the bureaucracy.We’ve also put together printable checklists and guides to help you through the process. If you’d like a copy, just email us and we’ll send it over.Email: hello@spainfullyhonest.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Spainfully Honest01:43 Celebrating Episode 30 and catching up09:18 Understanding TIE Renewal Process15:51 Documents Needed for TIE Renewal23:35 Financial Requirements for Residency24:06 Understanding Autonomous Payments and Digital Processes25:35 The Importance of Digital Certificates and Signatures27:54 Making the Fingerprinting Appointment32:21 Collecting Your New Residency Card36:35 Renewal Process for Non-EU Residents40:30 Special Considerations for Irish Residents41:53 Preparing for Bureaucratic Challenges49:58 Final Tips for a Smooth ExperienceJust to be clear, we’re not lawyers, gestores, or immigration specialists. This episode is based on our own experience and research, and is shared for general information only.

In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine talk New Year’s resolutions and what they really look like when you’re living in Spain. From keeping fit and making the most of the outdoor lifestyle to tackling harder goals like quitting cigarettes, they discuss how Spanish routines and everyday life can support healthier habits without overcomplicating things.As part of this topic, they also focus on something that often gets overlooked: making friends and building a new community in Spain. As always, Paul and Catherine share their own resolutions alongside plenty of (very) honest chat, differing opinions and their familiar back-and-forth!Email them with your New Year resolutions at hello@spainfullyhonest.comChapters:Chapters00:00 Introduction to Spainfully Honest Podcast02:54 New Year, New You: Resolutions and Reflections06:00 Paul and Catherine Christmas chat10:02 New Year's Celebrations 12:58 Setting and Keeping New Year's Resolutions15:58 Health and Diet: Challenges and Strategies22:02 Exercise Options in Spain: Gyms and Outdoor Activities27:53 Social Aspects of Fitness: Making Friends Through Activities34:07 Exploring Scuba Diving and Other Hobbies37:09 Health Awareness: Discussing Endometriosis39:59 Food Culture in Spain: Healthy Eating Habits42:48 Smoking and Health: Challenges in Spain51:06 Conclusion and Future Topics

In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine take a step back and reflect on how the podcast has evolved so far. They look back at some of the key topics they’ve covered, from the realities of everyday life in Spain to education in Spain, property in Spain, work and healthcare in Spain, and the cultural stuff you only really learn by living here.Not a culture shock in sight!Chapters00:00 Welcome to Spainfully Honest05:01 Looking back at how the podcast has grown09:35 Figuring out everyday life in Spain14:50 Talking honestly about education in Spain18:34 Milestones, moments, and the importance of community22:30 More on schools and education in Spain25:26 Why learning Spanish really matters31:59 Making sense of property choices in Spain38:04 Working, retiring, and planning life in Spain42:35 The bits no one warns you about45:10 The legal side of moving to Spain45:55 Dealing with legal admin once you’re here47:07 Healthcare, wellbeing, and looking after yourself49:48 Sorting out furniture and home basics50:58 End-of-life care and planning ahead53:55 What winter in Spain is actually like55:42 Holidays, traditions, and local events56:45 Cost of living and everyday shopping comparisons01:06:58 Wrapping up and what’s coming nextHere is the link to the news website mentioned and the articles about the V-16 beacon: https://spanishnewstoday.com/search.html The new VMP law was mentioned in the podcast but since the podcast was recorded there have been some setbacks setting up the insurance and so the law is not being enforced quite yet. Make sure to keep an eye on your city/town hall social media pages.To email Paul and Catherine contact: hello@spainfullyhonest.com

New Year in Spain can look very different depending on where you are. In this episode of Spainfully Honest, we talk about Spanish New Year traditions, what Nochevieja in Spain is like in the major cities, and how to find out what’s happening in your own area, including family-friendly activities and events for kids.**Chapters:**00:00:00 Introduction to Spainfully Honest00:05:00 Exploring New Year's Eve in Spain00:15:00 What's happening on New Year's Eve in Spain from Alicante to Madrid00:30:00 New Year Traditions and Customs00:45:00 Travel Tips and Recommendations for New Year's Eve in Spain01:00:00 Conclusion and FarewellHappy New Year!!To email your questions or suggestions contact us at hello@spainfullyhonest.com

In this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine talk about Three Kings Day in Spain and why Reyes is often more important than Christmas. They look at how it’s celebrated, from the Cabalgata parades to the traditions that bring towns and neighbourhoods together. The conversation also focuses on life in Murcia, what makes it feel truly Spanish, and how local markets and community events are a big part of the festive season. They also chat about the must-have Roscón de Reyes and why joining in with local traditions is one of the best ways to enjoy the holidays in Spain.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Spainfully Honest and Christmas Countdown02:00 Celebrating Reyes Three Kings in Spain04:43 Exploring Murcia09:19 Local News and Regulations: The V16 Light Requirement11:23 Three Kings Day: The Festivities Begin16:06 The Eve of Three Kings: Traditions and Celebrations18:57 The Cabalgata de Reyes: The Grand Parade Experience23:44 Navigating the Parade: Tips for Families24:21 The Three Kings and Their Significance25:47 Celebrating Epiphany: Traditions and Customs27:42 The Roscon de Reyes: A Festive Treat32:55 Community Celebrations: Town Events and Activities35:53 Exploring Local Christmas Events in Alicante39:41 Cultural Highlights in Bullas and other towns and cities around Spain44:38 Traditional Markets and Local Delicacies49:26 Closing Thoughts and Future EpisodesEmail Catherine and Paul at hello@spainfullyhonest.com

SummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, we talk through what Christmas in Spain actually looks like day to day, from the huge build-up around the El Gordo lottery to why Christmas Eve tends to be the main event. We also chat about New Year’s Eve traditions and some of the more unusual customs that often surprise people moving from the UK or Ireland. It’s an easy, honest look at how Christmas in Spain can feel familiar in some ways, and completely different in others.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Spainfully Honest Podcast00:40 Celebrating Christmas in Spain07:51 Christmas Traditions and Decorations12:23 The Christmas Lottery: El Gordo17:15 Community and Celebration During Christmas18:13 The Emotional Impact of Christmas Ads19:17 Christmas Eve vs Christmas Day: Cultural Differences21:27 Christmas Eve Traditions: Food and Family23:40 Midnight Mass and Its Significance24:35 Gift-Giving Traditions: Santa vs Three Kings26:04 Celebrating Christmas in Spain: Customs and Challenges29:42 New Year's Eve: Celebrations and Traditions31:31 Día de los Santos Inocentes: The Spanish April Fool's Day32:35 The Grape Tradition: New Year's Eve Customs38:45 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Christmas EventsContact us at hello@spainfullyhonest.comDisclaimer: Any practical tips mentioned in this episode are shared as personal experiences only. We are not qualified professionals, so listeners should always seek expert advice before making changes to gas, electrical, or other household systems.Note: Opening hours during Christmas in Spain can vary, even in tourist areas. Listeners are always advised to check in advance and, where possible, book ahead to avoid disappointment.

SummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine chat about where to find all the bits and pieces you need for a more traditional Christmas in Spain. From turkey, ham, and Christmas pudding to presents and decorations, they share what’s available locally, what can be harder to track down, and the places they rely on every year. It’s a straightforward guide to making Christmas feel a little more like home when you’re living abroad.The website for the company All Ireland Food is: All Ireland Foods – Authentic Irish Food & DrinkContact details are: 087 710 9595support@allirelandfoods.ieChapters00:00 Introduction to Spokelyonics and Christmas in Spain02:54 Christmas Shopping and Food Traditions05:48 Christmas Decorations and Celebrations08:33 Local Events and Community Engagement11:36 Navigating Christmas Food in Spain14:52 Turkey and Traditional Christmas Dinner20:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts21:16 Exploring Culinary Traditions22:47 Christmas Dinner Traditions in Ireland24:04 Ordering Irish Foods Abroad25:22 The Importance of Stuffing and Side Dishes27:23 Finding Traditional Ingredients in Spain33:24 Christmas Desserts and Sweets40:04 Christmas Crackers and Advent Calendars45:10 Christmas Shopping and Local Markets48:22 Creating a Festive Atmosphere49:53 Supporting Local Charities During ChristmasEmail Catherine and Paul with suggestions or questions at hello@spainfullyhonest.com

This week on Spainfully Honest: Paul and Catherine talk about education in Spain, focusing on colegios concertados, the semi-private schools. They share their experiences with Colegio Concertado Las Claras del Mar Menor, including how these schools support international students, the enrollment process, and how qualifications are recognized. They also cover language support, costs, and the overall quality of schooling. If you’re thinking about moving to Spain with your family, this episode explains what you need to know about your options.If you want more information about the Colegio Concertado Las Claras del Mar Menor here is their website Colegio Bilingüe Las Claras del Mar Menor | Centro educativo concertado en MurciaChapters00:00 Introduction to Spainfully Honest Podcast02:45 Exploring Colegio Concertado: A Unique Education Option07:09 Understanding the Structure and History of Las Claras School15:08 Age Ranges and Enrollment Flexibility in Semi private Schools23:03 Class Sizes and Educational Quality in semi private schools in Spain23:40 Transitioning Schools: Finding the Right Fit24:26 Supporting International Students in Language Acquisition25:26 The Importance of Language Preparation Before Moving28:55 Understanding the Admissions Process for state subsidized schools32:53 Navigating School Admissions: Points System Explained for Semi Private schools and public schools in Spain37:25 Extracurricular Activities: Enriching Student Life39:51 International Recognition of Qualifications41:17 Cost Considerations for Semi-Private Schools46:35 Advice for Parents: Choosing the Right School51:33 Cultural Considerations in EducationReach out to Paul and Catherine at hello@spainfullyhonest.com

SummaryThis week on Spainfully Honest, Catherine and Paul talk with Christopher Hughey from AmericansMovingToSpain.com about what it’s really like for Americans and Brits moving to Spain. (Non-EU residents really...)With Thanksgiving coming up, they chat about how expats celebrate far from home, plus the emotional side of picking the right place to live. They cover the practical stuff too, visas, health insurance, taxes, and real estate challenges, while sharing tips on adjusting to life and culture in Spain. Whether you’re dreaming about moving to Spain or just curious, this episode is full of honest advice to help make the leap a bit easier.Contact Christopher Hughey at Americans Moving To Spain – Relocation to Spain made easy.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Remote Living in Spain05:50 Personal Journey: Chris's Move to Seville08:46 Exploring the Diversity of Spain11:44 Visa Options for Moving to Spain14:26 Understanding Health Insurance in Spain17:43 Navigating Work Visas and Employment20:46 Assistance for Existing Residents23:28 Tax Considerations for Americans in Spain24:32 Real Estate Insights and Cautions28:57 Thanksgiving Traditions in Spain33:57 Advice for Moving to Spain37:24 Gratitude and ReflectionsHappy Thanksgiving, everyone!Email the pod at hello@spainfullyhonest.com