Moving to Altea, Spain

"Be methodical and organized. Have a time-line with goals. Seek input from people who have made similar moves. Test drive the town and neighborhood before committing to a long-term lease or purchase. In Spain, for example, there are numerous vacation rental apartments, homes, villas, etc. where you can stay for several weeks or months (at far cheaper rates than most hotels) to get a feel for the area you are considering," remarked one expat in Altea, Spain.

"Altea is a beautiful coastal town in the province of Alicante, Spain. It is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque old town, and vibrant culture. Expats should be aware that the local language is Spanish, so it is important to learn some basic Spanish before moving to Altea. Additionally, the cost of living in Altea is relatively low compared to other parts of Spain, making it an attractive destination for expats. Expats should also be aware that the climate in Altea is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. Finally, expats should be aware that Altea is a popular tourist destination, so it can be quite crowded during the summer months," said one expat in Altea.

"One way to find a place to live in Altea is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Altea. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in the area to help you find a suitable place to live. You can also look for rental postings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in the area. Finally, you can ask friends and family who live in Altea for recommendations," explained one expat living in Altea, Spain.

"I first rented in Casco Antiguo, scenic old town. I was glad I did, as the noise and vibration of the twice hourly tram travelling though a tunnel nearby my place, led me to move to another area in Casco Antiguo, just near the heart of the action. I suggest you go to the place you are considering at various times of day to check out things like noise, neighbors and neighborhood, etc," said one expat in Altea.

"In Casco Antiguo, the old whitewashed buildings are joined together, often with more than one floor. The apartments or "pisos" range from studios to very large, multi-storied places. Mine is a spacious 3 bedroom with a full galley style kitchen, and the washing machine is in its own room, as opposed to its typical placement in the kitchen. I am pleased to have air conditioning during the hot, humid summer. I was surprised to learn that air con is not very common. Glad I asked for it," replied a member in Altea.

"Expat homes and apartments in Altea are typically modern and spacious, with plenty of natural light and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Many of the homes and apartments have terraces or balconies, perfect for enjoying the warm Spanish climate. Inside, the apartments are typically decorated with bright colors and modern furnishings, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Many of the homes and apartments also have access to communal pools and gardens, making them ideal for those looking to enjoy the outdoors," commented one expat who made the move to Altea.

"My rent is 400 Euros per month, plus about 40 for electricity and 5 for water. My mortgage in the Central Coast of California was $4000, granted for a larger house, but an equivalent size home on the edge of the Altea with land, would still be far cheaper than my home in California," remarked one expat in Altea, Spain.

"The cost of housing in Altea is generally quite reasonable, with the average price for a two-bedroom apartment ranging from around €500 to €800 per month. Prices can vary depending on the location and size of the property, with larger apartments and those located closer to the beach typically costing more," said one expat in Altea.

"Buying a home in Altea can be a great investment. The area is known for its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and its vibrant culture. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other parts of Spain, making it an attractive option for those looking to purchase a home. However, if you are not ready to commit to a long-term investment, renting a home in Altea may be a better option. You can enjoy the same benefits of living in Altea without the long-term commitment," commented one expat who made the move to Altea.

"After almost three months, I am still waiting for my third and final box to clear the Spanish postal service and customs. It has been so long, I can't even remember what items are in it. Besides those three boxes, I only brought two suitcases, so I brought very little. I was surprised I could not find US size wash cloths in Spain. And I would have brought quality zip-lock plastic bags. They are practically useless here," remarked one expat in Altea, Spain.

"When moving to Altea, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Bring comfortable, lightweight clothing that is suitable for the warm Mediterranean climate. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also essential for protecting yourself from the sun. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items that will help you feel at home, such as pictures of family and friends, favorite books, and any other items that will make you feel comfortable in your new home. Finally, don't forget to bring any necessary documents, such as your passport and visa," said one expat in Altea.

"In Altea, it is important to be mindful of local customs and etiquette. It is considered rude to be late for social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress modestly, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious customs, such as refraining from eating pork or other non-halal foods in public. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English or any other language in public, as this can be seen as disrespectful," explained one expat living in Altea, Spain.

"Altea is a popular destination for expats due to its Mediterranean climate and relaxed atmosphere. Located in Alicante province, it offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. Its cobbled streets, whitewashed churches and quaint squares surrounded by low-rise buildings create a picturesque landscape. With its excellent transport links to larger towns and cities, including the nearby resort of Benidorm, expats can enjoy easy access to Spanish culture, food and amenities. Altea is renowned for its lively nightlife, with a wealth of great bars and restaurants to sample. Moreover, the traditional architecture and slower pace of life provide a respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life. All of this combined makes Altea a prime destination for expats looking for a Mediterranean lifestyle, with all of the conveniences of modern living," wrote one expat living in Altea.

"Although the primary care from physicians and the local hospital/clinic are generally adequate, I recommend getting a second opinion before accepting a recommendation for major treatment like surgery, even though you will likely have to pay that out of pocket. Doctors, treatments, medications are dramatically less expensive here. Custom orthotics would have cost me approximately $300 in the US, but are $45 here. ," said one expat.

"Altea offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is provided by the Spanish National Health System (SNS), which is funded by the government and provides free healthcare to all citizens. The SNS offers primary care services, such as general practitioner visits, specialist visits, and hospitalization. Additionally, Altea has several private healthcare providers that offer a variety of services, such as dental care, optometry, and physical therapy. The city also has several pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. Finally, Altea has a number of health centers that provide preventive care, such as vaccinations and health screenings," said one expat living in Altea, Spain.

"Altea offers a wide range of medical services for its residents. The town has several hospitals and clinics that provide a variety of treatments and services, including general medicine, emergency care, and specialized treatments. The town also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies. Additionally, Altea has a number of private medical practices that offer specialized treatments and services. The town also has a number of medical centers that provide physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitative services," stated one expat who made the move to Altea.