I would like to share with you some advice that has occurred to me from re-reading my last few posts on my Arguing Over Olives blog. This might be relevant for anyone starting up a new life in Spain (NB. I am generalising with this advice, to a certain extent, but it is based on my personal experience).
1. A lot of Spaniards, when they see a foreigner, see euro signs and can be quite annoying continually trying to flog you property. You will sometimes think you have made a friend because these people can be really friendly and invite you around for a meal etc. Watch out if after they have plied you with booze they start mentioning a piece of land or house they want to sell.
2. Don't be fooled by some Spaniards who look scruffy, but are razor sharp when it comes to money. These are particularly prevalent in rural areas.
3. Be highly suspect of rich people in Spain: where and how did they obtain all this wealth? Does it go back to the Franco days?
4. Sometimes, you have to be a bit false and 'keep in' with certain locals who wield a lot of power, at least until you've got what you need. Then, if they're bad people you can have a nice big row with them if you want.
5. Don't get walked over by trespassers and bullies. Stand up for yourself. You will thereby maintain your self-respect and also gain the respect of others. Also, you will usually manage to get the bad ones to go away and find a different victim.
6. Don't aim to be liked at all costs, when you want to integrate. That way you'll get continually ripped off.
Feel free to add any other advice you might have to assist newcomers, in the comments section below.
To see our current properties for rent take a look at:
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p86636
And also another of our completed projects:
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p475271