Digital Nomad Life in Altea, Spain
Summary: Digital nomads like living in Altea, Spain because of its stunning Mediterranean coastline, its laid-back atmosphere, and its affordability. The population of Altea is approximately 20,000 people. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Altea is estimated to be around $1,500 USD. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Altea is around $600 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in Altea is the Old Town, which is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The weather in Altea, Spain is typically mild with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (12-24 Celsius).
How do I meet people in Altea?
When we asked people living in Altea about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Altea often join local clubs and activities such as golf, tennis, sailing, and hiking. Expats can also join local language classes, book clubs, and art classes. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local festivals, visiting local markets, and exploring the local restaurants and bars. Expats can also join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Altea," said one expat in Altea.
What is life like in Altea?
When we asked people living in Altea what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Altea is generally quite pleasant. The town is small and picturesque, with a Mediterranean climate and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the cost of living is relatively low. There is a good selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as plenty of shops and markets. The town is well-connected to the rest of Spain, with easy access to the nearby cities of Valencia and Alicante. For those looking for a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of sunshine, Altea is an ideal destination," remarked one member in Altea.
Where should I live in Altea?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"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," explained one person living in Altea, Spain.
"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," said one expat in Altea.
What do I need to know before moving to Altea?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Altea, they said:
"Before retiring in Altea, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally higher than 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 housing market and the availability of rental properties. Finally, expats should consider the climate and the weather in Altea, as it can be quite hot in the summer months," said one person in Altea.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Altea?
"Expats in Altea appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the friendly locals. They also enjoy the Mediterranean climate, the stunning beaches, and the beautiful mountain scenery. The local cuisine is another highlight, with its fresh seafood, paella, and tapas. The vibrant nightlife and cultural events are also popular with expats, as well as the many outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and sailing," said one person in Altea.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Altea?
"Expats in Altea often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. As Spanish is the primary language spoken in Altea, those who do not speak the language may find it difficult to communicate with locals. Additionally, expats may find it difficult to adjust to the slower pace of life in Altea, as the town is known for its relaxed atmosphere. Furthermore, expats may find it difficult to adjust to the local customs and traditions, as they may be quite different from what they are used to," said one person in Altea.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Altea for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Altea 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 residency permit. You will also need to provide proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay in Spain. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of health insurance coverage," said one expat who made the move to Altea.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Altea?
We asked people in Altea if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"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," said one person in Altea.
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What are healthcare services like in Altea?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Altea, they replied:
"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 foreigner in Altea.
"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," remarked one member in Altea.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Altea?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Altea appreciate the town's relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. They also enjoy the mild climate, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C in winter and rarely rising above 30°C in summer. Additionally, the town's proximity to larger cities such as Valencia and Alicante makes it an ideal base for exploring the region. On the downside, expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Altea to be higher than in other parts of Spain. Additionally, the town's small size can make it difficult to find a wide variety of activities and entertainment," said a member in Altea.
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About the Author
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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