Alastair Johnson relocated to Sitges, Spain in 2016 with his wife Alison and one-year-old son.
He intended to spend just one year in the sunny European hotspot but eight years later, still calls it home.
Alastair spoke exclusively to GB News about his expat experience, admitting that while the relaxed attitude to the time “bugged” him at first, the Spanish have “really got it right”.
For those considering taking the plunge and moving to Spain, the expat provided some top tips. Weighing in on where to live, he shared why the decision “really is very personal”.
‘Sunday is for spending time with your family, having lunch and taking your time’
Alastair Johnson / GETTY IMAGES
For those looking to vacation in Spain rather than make a permanent move, the expat shared his must-visit holiday spot, complete with “stunning” sights and plenty of “adventure”.
This time, Alastair spoke exclusively to GB News about why it’s difficult to get things done on a Sunday, warning British holidaymakers and expats alike that “a lot of things are closed”.
Alastair stated: “We lived in London in the late 90s when it was changing into that 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week society.
“And when we go back there now, everything is open all the time – but here, it isn’t.
“In our little town, the garden centre doesn’t open on Sunday at all, even though it’s when everyone does their gardening.
“But Sunday is still for spending time with your family, having lunch and taking your time.
“It is changing bit by bit but it’s still very much that a lot of things are closed on a Sunday for family and it’s a day for quiet.
“It’s no longer a day for going to church but it still holds that idea of spending the day resting and recovery.”
Indeed, Spain’s official tourism website confirmed: “Sunday is the normal day for shops and businesses to close.”
As for Saturday, Spain typically uses this as a “market day”, when locals can stock up on fruits and veg and even clothes.
“The rhythm of life works a bit differently,” Alastair concluded.
Alastair and his wife Alison set up a business to help people looking to move to Spain from the UK. Moving to Spain offers expert advice, resources, insider knowledge and a handpicked network of service providers.
