Spain is heating up—fast. In this episode, I explore the growing risk of a Super El Niño summer and what it could mean for life, travel, and extreme heat in Spain. With record-breaking temperatures, longer heatwaves, and rising night-time heat, is this the new normal? Plus, the best times to visit Spain—and practical tips to survive the summer like the locals. 🌞

Spain is rolling out major changes to how Brits travel, and airport queues are right at the centre of it. In this episode, I break down the new Entry/Exit System (EES), what biometric data you'll need to provide, and why you can't register in advance. I also explain how the new ETIAS travel authorisation—costing €20 for three years—will affect UK travellers heading to Spain and across Europe.

With staff shortages at Spanish airports and no plans to increase border control numbers, will these new systems really speed things up? And why is Spain expecting record tourism numbers despite global tensions that could impact aviation fuel and flights?

A clear, slightly humorous look at post-Brexit travel, airport queues, and what it really means for Brits visiting sunny Spain.

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Four nuclear bombs. One small Spanish village. In 1966, disaster fell from the sky over Palomares. From fear and secrecy under Franco to a missing bomb in the Mediterranean, this episode of Spanish Practices uncovers the human impact of a Cold War accident that still lingers today.

What is Calima — and why does it turn rain into mud in Spain?

In this episode of Spanish Practices, we explore the Saharan dust storms that sweep across Spain, turning skies orange, coating homes in red grime, and impacting air quality. From the dramatic March 2022 "mega-Calima" to the strange reality of "mud rain," this is Spain's dirty little secret explained.

Learn what causes Calima, the health risks, how to clean up afterwards, and why these dust events may be becoming more frequent.

Spain is set to regularise up to 500,000 undocumented people living here and possibly working under the radar — but is this really a bold new move, or just Spain being Spain?

In this episode of Spanish Practices, we take a light, positive look at Spain's plan to bring hundreds of thousands of people out of the shadows and into the official system. These workers are already living, some illegally working, and contributing to the economy — so what changes now?

We explore Spain's history of regularisation, its strong GDP growth forecast, and how the government plans to handle increased pressure on healthcare and public services. With an ageing population and a growing economy, could this actually be a smart long-term strategy?

A practical, very Spanish solution… or a risky gamble?

A sweet, sticky, and slightly ridiculous history of Spanish desserts—featuring Romans, Moors, nuns, churros, and the iconic piononos of Granada.

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It sounds like the ultimate loophole… no rent, no paperwork, just sunshine and sea views. But is van life in Spain actually legal—or are you one knock from the Guardia Civil away from a fine?

In this episode of Spanish Practices, I dive into the booming world of motorhome living across Spain. From Costa beach dreams to car park reality, we uncover the truth about parking vs camping laws, post-Brexit residency rules, and whether this is the cheapest way to live in Spain… or a risky myth.

If you've ever thought about escaping to Spain, living off-grid, or dodging rising rents—this episode is for you.

Ever wondered why Mercadona is often called one of the most profitable supermarkets in the world? In this light-hearted episode of Spanish Practices, we explore its fascinating history—from a humble family butcher's shop in Valencia to a retail powerhouse across Spain.

We dive into how Mercadona has reinvented the supermarket experience with energy-efficient stores, hot takeaway food, and even places to sit and eat. Plus, we uncover the story behind the famously catchy Mercadona jingle (sí, that one stuck in your head) and the voice behind it.

Expect humour, insights into Spanish shopping culture, and plenty of relatable moments if you've ever gone in for milk and come out with a full basket.

Perfect for expats, Spain lovers, and anyone curious about everyday life in Spain.

The Mercadona Jingle, composed by Lluís Miquel Campos, vocalist Mamen García, reproduced under UK Fair Dealing Law 1988 Sections 29/30

Why does Easter in Spain feel like a powerful historical drama, while in the UK it's closer to a chocolate-fuelled long weekend?

In this episode of Spanish Practices, we compare the deeply traditional Semana Santa celebrations of Spain — with solemn processions, penitents, and powerful depictions of the crucifixion — against the more light-hearted British Easter of chocolate eggs, hot cross buns, roast lamb, and a Bank Holiday Monday.

Exploring culture, religion, food, and tradition, this episode highlights the fascinating contrast between Spanish Holy Week and British Easter customs, while uncovering what both countries share at their core.

Perfect for anyone living in Spain, moving to Spain, or simply curious about cultural differences between Spain and the UK.

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Why does Spain look like a doughnut on the map?

In this episode of Spanish Practices, we take a slightly sarcastic (and surprisingly informative) deep dive into "Empty Spain" (España vaciada) — the vast, sparsely populated interior where villages are disappearing, schools are closing, and the local bar might be the only sign of life.

Meanwhile, the coasts and major cities are bursting at the seams.

So what happened?

We explore:

• Why most of Spain's population lives along the coast and in major cities
• The great rural exodus and the decline of inland villages
• The long-term impact of the Francisco Franco era on economic development
• Why regions like Andalusia became agricultural powerhouses while the north industrialised
• The reality behind "España vaciada" and what it means today
• And whether cheap houses, fibre optic broadband, and a bit of imagination could bring people back to rural Spain

From empty plains to overcrowded costas, this episode explains how Spain became one of Europe's most unevenly populated countries — and why the middle is, quite literally, missing.

If you've ever driven through inland Spain and wondered where everyone went… this one's for you.

Subscribe for more witty, honest takes on life in Spain, culture, and the realities behind the postcard. 🇪🇸🍩

Madame Hoochie is played by Chris Lowrie and is currently appearing at his Majesty's Pleasure Basildon.

Can Brits still move to Spain after Brexit? In this episode of Spanish Practices, I will break down exactly how UK citizens can live, retire, and even work in Spain in 2026. From the 90-day rule and visa requirements to the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) and Digital Nomad Visa, we explain the process in a clear, practical (and humorous) way.

We also cover key essentials like the TIE card vs NIE number (yes, they're different!), private health insurance rules, and the paperwork you'll need — including ACRO checks, apostilles, and translations. Plus, what happens if you were already living in Spain before Brexit.

If you're dreaming of life in the Spanish sun, this episode will help you navigate the bureaucracy — and remind you why it's all worth it.

☀️ Moving to Spain after Brexit made simple (and slightly entertaining!)

Always seek the advice of an Immigration Expert when considering any move to another country.