In this episode of Spanish Practices, we travel back to 13th-century Granada to explore the Alhambra Palaces through the eyes of Aisha, a young servant girl living and working under the Nasrid dynasty during the reign of Sultan Muhammad II.

VISIT The Alhambra Palaces and Generalife Gardens HERE

Moving beyond guidebooks and grand history, this immersive historical storytelling episode reveals daily life inside the Alhambra — from the palace's extraordinary water system and laundry stones to court kitchens, gardens, and the unseen labour that sustained one of Spain's greatest monuments.

Set in 1290, The Alhambra: The Eighth Wonder of the World blends social history, Islamic Spain, Moorish architecture, and human perspective, offering a richly atmospheric journey into medieval Andalusia, Granada's Nasrid court, and the quiet lives that made palace life possible.

Spain is facing a new reality of extreme weather — from sudden flooding to the growing threat of summer drought.

In this episode of Spanish Practices, I look at the recent storms affecting Spain, including Storm Leonardo and the approaching Storm Marta, and asks what these events tell us about climate change, infrastructure, and life in modern Spain.

Reflecting on the legacy of the Valencia DANA floods, the episode explores how Spanish emergency services have improved their response to extreme weather, why many towns and cities struggle with storm drainage, and how Spain's historic relationship with water is being tested by today's climate.

Why can Spain experience flooding in winter yet still face drought in summer — even with dams full to overflowing? How do other countries, such as Singapore, manage stormwater differently? And what long-term solutions could help Spain address its growing water challenges?

Thoughtful, grounded, and ultimately hopeful, this episode looks at how Spain is learning to adapt — and how communities are learning to weather the storm.

In this episode at least two reasons among many why we left our leafy Essex town and beautiful four bedroomed bay-fronted Edwardian House and ran off to sunny Spain.

So to the ghosts two arrive from my past. One is a, to be, famous children's author to whom I was spectacularly rude, after which I threw away the first edition of her book about a boy who didn't know he was a wizard. 

The other is a man who once started a little online bookshop with a ridiculous name, well I thought it was when they launched in the UK  — Amazon — though confusingly, his name was, I think Jeff, not Amazon.

Is the new and mandatory in Spain from the start of 2026, Beacon a Beacon of safety or a silly dim flashing light that tracks your car to the Government?

Yes its the controversial V16 Beacon that we have all had to buy, or rather try to buy, amongst the Temu rip offs that aren't a certified beacon. Is it a major step forward in road safety.. Let's find out.

In this episode I am talking about Christmas.

I'm going to look at British Christmas versus Spanish Christmas, and then zoom out to see where Spain quietly shares traditions with the rest of the world… often in surprising ways.

So pop the kettle on, pour a glass of Spanish sherry — depending on which country you emotionally identify with today — and let's dive in.

In this short episode  a clear, realistic, non-salesy view of where the smart money is going in Spain in 2025–2030—and whether property is still the best bet.

I am not a Financial Expert, do not take this episode as any kind of financial advice.  I have collated together trends and data from financial institutions, banks and financial companies.

Spain's GDP grew by 3.5% in 2024 and is forecasted to grow by 2.9% in 2025. 

The growth is being driven by strong domestic demand, particularly household consumption and investment, which is outpacing the euro area.

Is this the time to invest in Spain?

From Mosiquitos to spiders and snakes, there is something lurking or flying around here in Spain that has you on their lunch menu.

How to cope with those tiny assassins and avoid being bitten or worse is what this episode is all about.

This is our real life, in real Spain. Ten years of adventures since swapping our glorious Victorian House in leafy Essex for a tiny flat in a wild Andalusian village. I was once a Radio Producer in London, not a great one.

Feel free to comment, like and of course follow - it really helps the show.

If you've ever stubbed your toe in Spain, you'll know that the locals don't just swear — they stage a one-man opera of profanity. Spanish swearing is a glorious symphony of blasphemy, body parts, and creative bowel movements. 

There are a lot of rude words in the episode so please, if you are easily offended, scroll on to the next episode.

Franco was responsible for the "Spanish Miracle," in a recent survey 21 % of Spaniards said that the years of Francisco Franco's rule - 1939 to 1975 were "good" or "very good."

Is Spain yearning to return to a time when one person possesses absolute power here in this country?

Real Life - Real Spain 

What kind and how many people are living under the wire, classed as "irregular" without paperwork living here in Spain.

How does Spain treat the nomads, the minorities and the people who come here without any money or housing?

This is our real life, in real Spain. Ten years of adventures since swapping our glorious Victorian House in leafy Essex for a tiny flat in a wild Andalusian village. I was once a Radio Producer in London, not a great one.

Feel free to comment, like and of course follow - it really helps the show.

What happens when you don't just move countries — but move brains?

In this episode of Spanish Practices, I explore how moving to Spain quietly rewires your brain, especially if you arrive tired, overstimulated, and worn down by modern life.

From walkable towns and Mediterranean food to better sleep, slower thinking, and everyday social connection, this episode shares five simple brain goals for anyone starting a new life in Spain — or dreaming of one.

This isn't about optimisation, biohacking, or becoming a "better version" of yourself. It's about becoming more human again.

You'll discover:

• Why daily walking in Spain beats gym culture for brain health

• How Spanish food rhythms calm your nervous system

• Why sleep is treated as infrastructure, not indulgence

• How language, history, and slowness build mental resilience

• Why frequent small social interactions matter more than deep friendships

Perfect for expats in Spain, those planning to move to Spain, or anyone craving a slower, healthier, more connected life.

Spain won't fix your brain — but it might give it the space to remember what it was built for.

🎧 Spanish Practices — understanding Spain, one lived experience at a time.

It was April the 28th and suddenly the lights went out, the fridge and freezer went silent and what followed was eight hours of chaos as a historic Blackout Cripples Spain and Portugal.

BUT What is the shocking truth behind a power cut, it was  Europe's Worst Blackout in 20 Years and plunged Barcelona, Lisbon, Madrid, Porto and Seville into darkness?

This is our real life, in real Spain. Ten years of adventures since swapping our glorious Victorian House in leafy Essex for a tiny flat in a wild Andalusian village. I was once a Radio Producer in London, not a great one.

Feel free to comment, like and of course follow - it really helps the show.

Do you really need to speak Spanish in Spain? Can you get by with a few words, Google Translate and waving your hands around.

And which company was voted worst Company of the Year in Spain in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, and 2016?

This is our real life, in real Spain. Ten years of adventures since swapping our glorious Victorian House in leafy Essex for a tiny flat in a wild Andalusian village. I was once a Radio Producer in London, not a great one.

Feel free to comment, like and of course follow - it really helps the show.

Many move to Spain chasing a healthier, freer life under the sun—but does it really happen? What are the true keys to living longer, better here?

Also my glorious failure as a radio producer—paired with the legendary Pete Murray, who somehow survived my on-air blunders (though only just!)

What did the Romans ever do for Almuñécar?

Apart from inventing takeaway food, apartment living, public baths, complaining about politicians… and making the entire town smell like fermented fish.

In this episode of Spanish Practices, we travel back to Roman Sexi (modern-day Almuñécar) to follow one entirely unremarkable man: Lucius. He is not a general, senator or emperor. He is a garum worker — which means his job is stirring rotting fish in the sun and smelling so bad even his own family stands upwind.

Through Lucius's aching back, noisy apartment block, chaotic streets and daily visits to Roman "takeaways", we discover that ordinary life in Roman Spain looks suspiciously like expat life in modern Spain. People live in cramped flats. Neighbours argue loudly. Bureaucracy is baffling. Everyone eats out. The bars are noisy. The water is questionable. And everyone is convinced society is in decline.

There are fish guts. There is urine-based laundry. There are public baths with better gossip than hygiene. There are gladiators, amphitheatres, dodgy wine, and a reminder that tourism is really just garum with better marketing.

From Roman food factories to modern beachfront apartments, this episode explores how little the rhythm of Spanish life has changed in 2,000 years — and why Almuñécar has always known how to turn sunshine into a living.

History, humour, and the unmistakable stink of fermented anchovies.

Spain welcomed a record 97 million tourists — and now the country is bursting at the seams.

In this episode, we look at failing infrastructure, overcrowded cities, and why Spain might need a breather in 2026.

Plus: lesser-known regions to visit and better ways to experience Spain beyond beaches, booze, and burnout.

Three Places, mentioned to visit:

Extremadura 

https://www.turismoextremadura.com/en/index.html

Teruel 

https://turismo.teruel.es/en/

Galicia - search interior

https://www.turismo.gal/inicio/?langId=en_US

A detailed investigation into the Adamuz train crash in Spain, examining what happened, what investigators believe caused the derailment, and the warnings about track defects raised before the tragedy.

I explore the human stories behind the disaster, including the loss of 41 lives and the death of a 27-year-old train driver, and how families and communities were affected.

Finally, we look at rail safety in Spain, public confidence in high-speed trains, and the questions this tragedy raises for travellers and authorities alike.

This week, we had two power cuts. That led to Bruce our rescue dog getting diarrhea! A biblical lightning strike, a bodged Endesa repair, and one warm fridge too far — welcome to Spanish electrics.

In this wry expat tale, two power cuts lead to a flooded studio, philosophical acceptance, and an unfortunate canine outcome.

Living in Spain teaches resilience, patience, and one golden rule: never trust dog food after a blackout.

A wry, true-to-life look at Spanish plumbing quirks every expat eventually encounters — mysterious drain smells, missing U-bends, and bathrooms with opinions.

From central traps and sewer "breathing" to rain-induced gurgling chaos, this episode explores why Spanish drains work differently.

Packed with humour, cultural insight, and lived expat experience of life in Spain and Andalusia.
Spanish Practices: real life, real Spain — where even the plumbing tells a story.

In this episode of Spanish Practices - As we start 2026 Spain faces a demographic crunch. A 2025 forecast says the country needs 2.4 million foreign workers by 2035 to sustain its pension system — just as millions apply for Spanish citizenship under the Grandchildren's Law.

In this episode of Living in Spain, I talk about the choking hazard that is a Spanish Tradition at New Year, drawing on real experiences of expat life in Andalusia after moving from the UK to Spain. 

We cover:

• How a Spanish New Year is celebrated, and why twelve grapes play an important part.

• The cultural differences between New Year in Spain and the UK

• What I miss about New Year in the UK and New Year in Spain

• There are stories, mistakes, moments of joy, and the occasional flashback to my former life as a London radio producer — including an exploding bottle of champagne and a one thousand pound bounty for working over the millennium.

Spain is currently selling around six homes a minute — and nearly a third are bought in cash. So what's really driving Spain's property boom?

In this episode of Spanish Practices, I take a wry, clear-eyed look at the Spanish real estate market in 2026: foreign buyers, remote workers, coastal hotspots like the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca, rising prices in Madrid and Barcelona, and the growing pressure on local communities.

Why is Spain so attractive to international investors? Where are the most popular regions to buy property?

And what should you watch out for before signing at the notary? From cash purchases and lifestyle migration to planning permissions and hidden buying costs, this episode explores the reality behind Spain's housing surge — with humour, perspective and a healthy respect for Spanish bureaucracy.

If you're thinking about buying property in Spain, investing in a holiday home, or simply curious about why the market is moving so fast, this one's for you.

Frigiliana is often called Spain's most beautiful village — a maze of whitewashed streets, Moorish architecture and sun-drenched terraces above the Costa del Sol. But beneath its postcard perfection lies one of the bloodiest chapters in Andalusian history.

In this episode of Spanish Practices, I uncover the brutal 1569 Battle of El Peñón, when Christian forces crushed a Morisco rebellion in a siege so savage the village was described as a "river of blood."

I explore the forced conversions after the Reconquista, the repression of Spain's Moors, the expulsion of the Moriscos, and the extraordinary Moorish irrigation systems the victors depended upon to survive.

This is the untold history of Frigiliana — where beauty, faith, conquest and survival collide in one of Spain's most haunting stories.

In this episode of Spanish Practices, I explore how decades of unchecked development, urban sprawl and coastal "litoralisation" have reshaped — and in some cases damaged — Spain's Mediterranean coastline.

From high-rise hotels built on dunes and illegal developments to disappearing beaches, fake sand, replenishment schemes, over-tourism in the Balearics and Costa del Sol, and the environmental impact of marinas and breakwaters, we unpack the real story behind Spain's coastal erosion crisis.

With wry humour and sharp insight, this episode examines corruption, sustainability, climate change and the future of Spain's beaches — essential listening for expats, travellers, property owners and anyone who loves the Spanish coast.

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.

Octopus is one of Spain's most iconic foods—but should we really be eating such an intelligent creature?

In this episode of Spanish Practices, we celebrate Spain's love affair with pulpo, from the famous Pulpo a la Gallega of Galicia to the dramatic open-fire octopus cooking traditions of Andalusia. Along the way we explore the surprising intelligence of octopus, their problem-solving abilities, their strange distributed "arm brains," and the growing debate about whether such a remarkable animal should be on the menu at all.

Are octopus really as smart as dogs? Can they recognise humans, escape aquariums, and even be kept as pets? And what does modern science say about their sentience and welfare?

Join us for a light-hearted but thought-provoking look at one of Spain's most delicious—and controversial—seafood traditions.

In praise of pulpo… with just a touch of philosophical guilt. 🐙🇪🇸

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What happened to the Sagrada Família after the death of Antoni Gaudí in 1926? In this episode of Spanish Practices, we follow the emotional story of two generations of builders in Barcelona — a young technical assistant who witnesses the destruction of Gaudí's workshop during the Spanish Civil War, and his son who helps rebuild the dream decades later.

A moving, human story about patience, genius, and the ordinary people who spent a lifetime finishing one of the most extraordinary churches in the world.

Please like and follow/subscribe, it really helps this Podcast.

In this episode of Spanish Practices, I unpack the reality behind the headlines: the Spain Digital Nomad Visa, the income requirements, the infamous 183-day tax rule, the Beckham Law 24% flat tax regime, social security, IVA, and what nobody tells you about Spanish bureaucracy.

We explore the best places to base yourself — from Málaga's Costa del Sol tech scene to Barcelona's creative buzz, Valencia's affordable beach lifestyle, Madrid's business energy, and even the year-round sunshine of the Canary Islands.

But this isn't just sunshine and sangria. I also talk honestly about:

• Spanish tax residency and worldwide income rules

• The pros and cons of becoming autónomo

• Housing pressures in popular cities

• Language barriers (yes… even for those of us who are still "improving")

• And how the Digital Nomad Visa can become a stepping stone to permanent residency in Spain after five years — and potentially citizenship after ten.

If you're considering moving to Spain as a remote worker in 2026, or you're already here wondering what you've signed up for, this episode is your practical — and slightly irreverent — roadmap.

Because Spain might offer the perfect remote lifestyle…
but it will also absolutely ask you for one more document.

Always seek professional advice before making a move to Spain.

Can you really explain the history of Spain in just ten minutes… without starting a civil war at the dinner table?

In this fast-paced, witty episode of Spanish Practices, I skip the dusty timelines and heroic statues and follow the ordinary people who didn't choose history — but got trampled by it anyway.

From Iberian goat farmers in ancient Sagunto to Roman toga cleaners ankle-deep in ammonia…
From the splendour of Al-Andalus and the fall of Granada to the quiet knock of the Spanish Inquisition…
From empire, silver and inflation to Napoleon's invasion, civil war, Franco's dictatorship and Spain's remarkable transition to democracy in 1975…

This is Spanish history told differently — human, humorous, and occasionally irreverent.

Because Spain isn't just kings, conquistadors and crowns.
It's survival. Adaptation. Endurance.

A 3,000-year story of ordinary people navigating conquest, collapse, faith, famine, dictatorship and democracy — and still somehow making it to the fiesta.

If you're curious about Spanish history but slightly impatient with dates, this one's for you.

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.

Please like, follow and leave a review - it really helps this Podcast.

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.

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

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.

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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Benidorm is famous for sunshine, cheap beer and wild nightlife — but beneath the neon lights lies a darker side. In this episode of Spanish Practices, I explore the reality of drugs, muggings, organised prostitution and tourist scams in Benidorm's notorious English Zone and "The Strip."

I also take a look at Spain's unusual prostitution laws, the rise in police raids, drink spiking concerns, and why some visitors now avoid "Muggers Alley" altogether. Plus, why Benidorm Old Town offers a very different side of the Costa Blanca resort.

A fascinating and sometimes shocking look at one of Spain's most famous holiday destinations.

OFFICIAL ALHAMBRA TICKETS - https://tickets.alhambra-patronato.es 

Discover the magic of the Alhambra in this insider's guide to one of Spain's most breathtaking landmarks.

In this episode of Spanish Practices, I explore the stunning Nasrid Palaces, the peaceful Generalife Gardens, the ancient fortress of the Alcazaba and why the Alhambra is considered a true wonder of the world.

I also reveal practical travel tips including the best time to visit, opening hours, how to travel from Port of Motril, and the truth about the Alhambra ticket scandal affecting tourists in 2026. Learn how to avoid fake ticket websites, secure access to the famous Nasrid Palaces and why booking early is essential.

Plus, I share a useful local tip about CaixaBank discounts and ATM ticket collection points in Andalucía.

If you are planning a trip to Granada, visiting Spain, arriving on a Mediterranean cruise, or simply love Spanish history, Moorish architecture and Andalusian culture, this episode is packed with advice and inspiration.

#Alhambra #Granada #SpainTravel #Andalucia #CostaTropical #SpanishPractices #NasridPalace #Generalife #MoorishSpain #TravelPodcast #VisitSpain #GranadaSpain #AlhambraTickets #SpanishHistory

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.

Follow Simon Calder here: TIKTOK

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.

I remember Judith Chalmers and the golden age of Spanish package holidays?

In this special edition of Spanish Practices, I take a nostalgic trip from the prawn cocktail resorts of the 1970s to today's luxury infinity pools, boutique hotels and Instagram-ready Spain. From Benidorm and Torremolinos to Mallorca and the Costa del Sol, discover how Spain became Britain's favourite sunshine escape — and why millions still return year after year.

An affectionate tribute to the legendary Wish You Were Here presenter Judith Chalmers who introduced generations of families to sunny Spain." RIP

In this episode I explore the fascinating and sometimes frightening history of earthquakes along the Costa Tropical and Granada province.

From the devastating 1804 Motril earthquake to the constant small tremors still detected today, I look at why southern Spain is one of the most seismically active regions in Europe.

Discover the science behind the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, the recent research suggesting the Iberian Peninsula is slowly "twisting", and what life may have been like during one of the most terrifying days in Motril's history.

I also explain what to do during an earthquake, how emergency alerts work in Spain, and whether a major quake could strike the Costa Tropical again.

A mixture of history, geology, local stories and life in southern Spain.

Spain has shifted politically — and Andalucía may never look the same again.

In this Special Edition of Spanish Practices, I explore the shock election results in Andalucía, the collapse of the PSOE in its historic heartland, and the growing influence of the far-right Vox party. Could Conservative PP's Juanma Moreno now be forced into a deal with Vox? And what might that mean for British and Irish expats living in southern Spain?

I take a look at migration politics, "Spanish First" policies, housing pressures, rising public frustration over wages and affordability, and whether life could genuinely become tougher for foreign residents in Andalucía.

With Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez under pressure at home despite his strong international image, is Spain entering a new political era?

A must-listen episode for anyone living in Spain, planning to move to Andalucía, or worried about the future political climate for expats on the Costa del Sol and Costa Tropical.

Drug-boats on Spain's Costa Tropical?  In this episode of Spanish Practices, I explore the recent surge of high-speed drug smuggling boats — known as narcolanchas — appearing around Almuñécar and La Herradura. You'll hear how increased policing around Tarifa may be pushing traffickers further along the Andalusian coast, why the rugged coastline offers perfect hiding places, and what the Guardia Civil are doing to fight back. I also explore the positive side of the Costa Tropical — its history, tourism boom, beautiful beaches, and why Almuñécar remains one of southern Spain's most fascinating destinations.

It was the very first Spanish Soap Opera. I am on a journey through Spain exploring the hilarious world of Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes — reimagined as a dramatic Spanish soap opera.

I explore the history behind Spain's most famous novel, the legendary windmill battle, Sancho Panza's endless suffering, impossible romance, and why Don Quixote remains one of the funniest and most important characters in Spanish culture. Expect humour, Spanish history, literary chaos and plenty of dramatic guitar music.

In this episode of Spanish Practices, I explore how authentic Spanish cooking really is when it passes through the hands of celebrity chefs. From Keith Floyd's unexpected take on Gambas al Ajillo, to Mary Berry's "Smoky Spanish Hot Pot," and Jamie Oliver's version of Crema Catalana, I compare their recipes with the real flavours of Spain.

Along the way, I share some behind-the-scenes encounters, a few culinary surprises, and what these dishes should actually taste like in a Spanish kitchen. If you love Spanish food, tapas, and the truth behind "authentic" recipes, this episode is for you.

Wild boars—jabalíes—are no longer just creatures of Spain's forests. In this episode, I explore how these powerful animals have moved into cities like Barcelona and the Costa del Sol, why they're losing their fear of humans, and the growing خطر they pose—from street encounters to deadly traffic accidents.

I look at the history of wild boar in Spain, their role in hunting and food culture, and what's driving their aggressive behaviour today. Plus, what you should do if you come face to face with one.

If you live in Spain—or plan to visit—this is a story you need to hear.

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. 🌞