Mac's Poll - Let's Vote

It's true that for many expats the initial intention to integrate is there, but when they realise how much dedication is required to be proficient in Spanish and that you can get by without it, many just don't bother. Instead, they get their bearings and integrate into the system by finding out about "el padron", their entitlement to the health service and generally master the practicalities of everyday life. They just carry on as they would have had they moved to another town in Britain. They seek out familiarity and go to the shops where they don't need to do too much communicating. It's safe and easy to live in a cocoon in Spain. It doesn't matter that it's Spain, it could be anywhere providing the sun shines. 
The truth is many get by fine like this and keep themselves to themselves catching glimpses of Spanish life from the sidelines. If they need to buy clothes they fly back to the UK or those on the Costa del Sol cross the border to Gibraltar for Marks and Spencer and Next. It is easier to stick to what they know and not complicate their lives by incorporating too much spanishness. 

Would this describe your situation or do you feel you have integrated into life in Spain?

[source extract Search Iberia]