ADVICE RE RENTING IN MURCIA/BOLNUEVO AREA FOR 6-12 MONTHS

Eileen,  You seem to know most of what you're looking for - but there's a bit of comment here is possibly not so helpful.   Bolnuevo & Camposol are IMHO excellent choices.  Bolnuevo has a fabulous beach and is adjacent to the marvellous beaches of Mazarron.  Bolnuevo also has some superb well priced restaurants.  Camposol is 10 miles or so inland, but the property prices there and deals available are very competitive.  It has had a bad press, some of it that is probably deserved and it's also sorted some aspects, but if you do your homework thoroughly you can buy or rent a fantastic property for a fraction of the cost elsewhere.

You probably know all this, but I wouldn't be overly influenced by some of the comments made.  Too many people seem to assume you must have the same prioities as them.

I think you're right to taste n try before you buy and be aware of the IHT and tax issues.  But having said that I know a lot of ex-pats who live in Spain most of the year and keep their non-resident status.  I am not advocating that at all and would never do so myself.  But that is the reality, a lot of people exceed the 6 months rule, year after year and nothing happens.

If anyone has any advice regarding ex pat , volunteering opportunities in the area of Mazzaron etc please contact me. I know the sun is not enough, I have to make a life for myself. 

I am trying to look at it from the point of view that if we go to Spain and it doesn't work out then it has been an experience. I don't consider trying something and then coming back to the UK a "failure" and I think it's a depressing way to look at it. I admire anyone who has had the guts to relocate to another country, no matter how long they stay.

Animal charities in abundance, but the one I would go for is GoMad which helps people, some of whom live in terrible poverty. GoMad collect everything, food, clothes, toiletries, many things which you and I might throw away, but they can find a use for. They organise fund raising events, have stalls etc. I don't think there are any other charities run by Ex pats which di this work, do help is sorely needed.

if you get a copy of the Costa Calida Chronicle, or the Camposol journal , you can find out more about the area and volunteering.

I think they are also online.

Thanks , the GoMad sounds ideal.