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Digital Nomad Guide to San Sebastian, Spain | Digital Nomad Exchange
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San Sebastian, Spain

Digital Nomad Life in San Sebastian, Spain

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: San Sebastian, Spain is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. The city is located on the northern coast of Spain and is known for its stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, and lively nightlife. The approximate population of San Sebastian is 186,000. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in San Sebastian is estimated to be around $1,500 USD. This includes rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in San Sebastian is approximately $800 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in San Sebastian is Gros, which is located near the beach and is known for its lively atmosphere and great restaurants. The weather in San Sebastian, Spain is mild and temperate, with average temperatures ranging from 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit (4-15 degrees Celsius).

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How do I meet people in San Sebastian?

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

"Expats in San Sebastian often join local clubs and activities such as language exchanges, sports teams, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, visiting local bars and restaurants, and exploring the city's many attractions. Additionally, many expats join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in the area," explained one expat living in San Sebastian, Spain.

What is life like in San Sebastian?

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

"San Sebastian is a great destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a vibrant city with a relaxed atmosphere. The city is known for its stunning beaches, delicious Basque cuisine, and lively nightlife. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many cultural attractions, such as the San Telmo Museum, the Kursaal Congress Centre, and the San Sebastian Film Festival. The city also offers a wide range of activities, from surfing and paddle boarding to hiking and cycling. The cost of living in San Sebastian is relatively low, making it an attractive option for expats and digital nomads. The city is also well-connected, with excellent public transport links to other parts of Spain and Europe," explained one person living in San Sebastian, Spain.

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Where should I live in San Sebastian?

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

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in San Sebastian is to use online rental websites such as Idealista, Fotocasa, and Habitaclia. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in San Sebastian and filter your search by price, size, and location. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in the area. Finally, you can also look for rental postings on local classifieds websites such as Segundamano.es," explained one expat living in San Sebastian, Spain.

What do I need to know before moving to San Sebastian?

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

"San Sebastian is a beautiful city located in the Basque Country of Spain. It is known for its stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. Before retiring in San Sebastian, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than the national average. Additionally, expats should research the local healthcare system and make sure they have adequate health insurance coverage. It is also important to familiarize oneself with the local language, as Spanish is the official language of the region. Finally, expats should take the time to explore the city and its surroundings, as there is much to discover in this beautiful part of Spain," said one expat in San Sebastian.

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What do people appreciate most about the culture in San Sebastian?

"Expats in San Sebastian appreciate the city's relaxed atmosphere and the friendly locals. They also enjoy the city's vibrant culture, with its many festivals, museums, and galleries. The city's stunning natural beauty, with its beaches, mountains, and parks, is also a major draw for expats. The city's excellent cuisine, with its traditional Basque dishes and world-renowned pintxos, is another highlight. Finally, expats appreciate the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around," explained one expat living in San Sebastian, Spain.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in San Sebastian?

"Expats in San Sebastian may find it challenging to adjust to the slower pace of life in the city. The local culture is very relaxed and laid-back, and it can be difficult for those used to a more fast-paced lifestyle to adjust. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for expats, as Spanish is the primary language spoken in San Sebastian. Finally, the local cuisine can be a challenge for expats, as it is heavily based on seafood and other regional specialties," said one person in San Sebastian.

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

"If you plan to stay in San Sebastian for a while, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term visa. You will also need to provide proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of health insurance coverage," remarked one foreigner who made the move to San Sebastian.

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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 San Sebastian?

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

"It is important to be mindful of local customs when visiting San Sebastian. It is considered impolite to be loud or disruptive in public places, such as restaurants or bars. It is also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or other religious sites. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of the local language and to avoid speaking English in public. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local dining customs, such as not eating with your hands or talking with your mouth full," said one expat who made the move to San Sebastian.

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What are healthcare services like in San Sebastian?

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

"San Sebastian offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is provided by the Basque Health Service, which offers comprehensive medical care, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. The Basque Health Service also provides preventive health services, such as vaccinations and health screenings. Additionally, there are several private healthcare providers in the city, offering a variety of services, including general practice, specialist care, and hospital care. San Sebastian also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Basque Institute of Health, which focuses on research and development in the field of health," said one member in San Sebastian.

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What are the pros and cons of living in San Sebastian?

"Expats and digital nomads living in San Sebastian appreciate the city's stunning natural beauty, with its picturesque beaches and lush green hills. They also enjoy the city's vibrant culture, with its lively nightlife, delicious Basque cuisine, and friendly locals. Additionally, the city's excellent public transportation system makes it easy to get around. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in San Sebastian to be quite high. Additionally, the city can be quite crowded during the summer months, making it difficult to find a quiet place to relax," said a member in San Sebastian.

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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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