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Digital Nomad Guide to Marbella, Spain | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in Marbella, Spain

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Marbella, Spain is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and excellent climate. The best neighborhood to live in Marbella is the Old Town, as it is the most centrally located and offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. The approximate population of Marbella is 140,000. The weather in Marbella is typically mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Marbella is approximately $1,500 USD. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Marbella is around $800 USD per month.

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How do I meet people in Marbella?

When we asked people living in Marbella about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"The best way to find contacts and all information is to try the web sites www.marbellago.com; www.marbella.com and www.andalucia.org. Also local english language newspaper www.surinenglish.com," said one expat who made the move to Marbella.

"Expats in Marbella often join clubs and activities such as golf, tennis, sailing, and horseback riding. There are also many social clubs and organizations that host events and activities for expats to meet and socialize. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local festivals, visiting the beach, or exploring the city's many restaurants and bars. Marbella also has a vibrant nightlife, with many clubs and bars that are popular among expats. Finally, expats can also meet people by joining language classes or taking part in volunteer activities," explained one foreigner living in Marbella, Spain.

What is life like in Marbella?

When we asked people living in Marbella what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Marbella is the international centre of the Costa del Sol, also called 'The California of Europe' because of its marvellous year round climate and 'Costa del Golf' due to their being a golf course round every corner! Very leisure orientated with the full range you can imagine (plus many more!). However, it still has its Spanish heart and style. The life of the Andalus is well known for its easy acceptance of everything. For them and many expats, life still revolves around the family," said one person in Marbella.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Marbella is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and excellent climate. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and cuisine. The city also offers a wide range of activities, from golfing and sailing to shopping and sightseeing. Additionally, Marbella is home to a large expat community, making it easy to make friends and find support. All in all, Marbella is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a place to call home," said one expat who made the move to Marbella.

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Where should I live in Marbella?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Marbella is a popular destination for tourists and expats alike, so finding a place to live in the area is relatively easy. One of the best ways to find a place to live in Marbella is to use online rental websites such as Idealista, Fotocasa, and Kyero. These websites allow you to search for properties in Marbella by location, price, and other criteria. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in the Marbella area. They can provide you with more information about the local rental market and help you find the perfect place to live," said one person in Marbella.

What do I need to know before moving to Marbella?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Marbella, they said:

"Before retiring in Marbella, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in other parts of Spain. They should also research the local healthcare system and the availability of medical services. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. It is also important to research the local tax laws and regulations to ensure compliance. Finally, expats should consider the climate and the type of activities available in the area to ensure that they will be able to enjoy their retirement," remarked one member in Marbella.

"Start learning Spanish and applying the tan cream now! Visit for a short time first to confirm that year round sun and limitless leisure opportunites are for you! If you have a family, find the school place(s) first, then the home and the office and work location can come after," explained one expat living in Marbella, Spain.

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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Marbella?

"Expats in Marbella appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the friendly locals. They also enjoy the Mediterranean climate, with its mild winters and hot summers. The city's vibrant nightlife and its many cultural attractions, such as the Picasso Museum, are also popular with expats. The city's proximity to the beach and the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea make it a great place to live. Additionally, the city's excellent infrastructure and its wide range of international restaurants and shops make it a great place to settle down," remarked one member in Marbella.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Marbella?

"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Marbella is the language barrier. Although many locals speak English, the majority of the population speaks Spanish, and it can be difficult for expats to communicate with locals without a basic understanding of the language. Additionally, the local culture is heavily influenced by traditional Spanish customs, which can be difficult for expats to adjust to. For example, the siesta, or afternoon nap, is a common practice in Spain, and it can be difficult for expats to adjust to the slower pace of life. Finally, the local cuisine can be a challenge for expats, as it is often quite different from what they are used to," explained one expat living in Marbella, Spain.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Marbella for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Marbella for a while, you will need to obtain a valid visa from the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term visa, such as a student visa, work visa, or residence permit. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of sufficient funds, health insurance, and a valid passport," said one person in Marbella.

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With over 40 years of professional experience, Balcells Group provides legal advice on immigration, business, real estate, and tax. They help individuals, companies, investors, students, entrepreneurs, highly-qualified professionals, digital nomads, and more, to enjoy successful law processes in Spain by guiding their clients every step of the way. They speak Spanish, English, Catalan and Russian.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Marbella?

We asked people in Marbella if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be mindful of local customs and etiquette when visiting Marbella. 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 sites and to avoid taking photographs without permission. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly in public," said one expat who made the move to Marbella.

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What are healthcare services like in Marbella?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Marbella, they replied:

"Marbella offers a wide range of healthcare services for both locals and visitors. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general practice, emergency care, and specialized treatments. Marbella also has a number of pharmacies, opticians, and dentists, as well as a range of alternative health services such as homeopathy, acupuncture, and massage therapy. The city also has a number of health and wellness centers, offering a variety of treatments and therapies to help people maintain their health and wellbeing," said one digital nomad in Marbella.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Marbella?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Marbella enjoy the warm climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. They also appreciate the city's proximity to other cities in the region, such as Malaga and Granada. Additionally, the cost of living in Marbella is relatively low compared to other cities in Spain. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the city to be too touristy and overcrowded during the summer months. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Spanish," wrote one digital nomad living in Marbella, Spain.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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