Hi forum members,
I have been actively exploring parts of Spain for the last three years, looking for a place to land and stay for about 6 months over the winter, with a view to relocating at some point if it works out. Have ruled out the North because, although wonderful in summer, it's a little too cold for me in winter. Love Valencia city but the rentals are higher than I'd like to pay and recently I visited La Alpujarra region, which is wonderful but I didn't find a town where I felt I could settle for long (I'm told everything goes very quiet there in the winter). My ideal would be a warm winter climate (certainly warmer than the UK!), somewhere that doesn't close down outside the holiday season (so a working Spanish town), with a good mix of native Spanish and expats and a strong community feel. I love many cultural pursuits, hiking and am a long-term meditator/qigong practitioner so a slightly 'alternative' community would be welcome, but not essential. A town/small city location is preferable, within striking distance of good walking country. I like to see the sea but I'm not a beach person so doesn't have to be on the coast. Would love to hear from forum members who have resettled or are part-time residents with your experiences and recommendations. Thanks for getting this far! Warmest wishes,