This is only my third summer not going home to the U.S., and I still feel that familiar pang in my heart. Even after all these years abroad, summer has a way of bringing up nostalgia, longing, and a need for grounding.
Living in Spain is a gift in many ways—but if you’re a parent here, you’ll know that the summer break is long. With school finishing on June 18th and not starting again until September, it’s a stretch of weeks that can feel both magical and overwhelming.
So how do you keep the kids busy, try to get your work done, stay patient, and somehow still soak in the reminder that you only get 18 summers with them?
That’s motherhood in a nutshell. A constant balancing act of logistics, love, and letting go.
Last week, our kids had no camp, so we decided to lean into family time. We planned a very last-minute trip to Mallorca—and I’m so glad we did. The best part? It’s only a 30-minute flight from Valencia. Just 30 minutes! Compared to our usual 14-hour summer journeys, this felt like a dream.
There are many sides to Mallorca. I had visited once before—single and adventurous. This time was entirely different. This time was about the kids.
We stayed at an all-inclusive resort with everything we needed: activities, kid-friendly pools, and two beautiful coves within walking distance. We spent our days barefoot, sun-soaked, and swimming—just letting the kids feel that beautiful, untamed freedom that summer should bring.
It reminded me of something I love about summer in the U.S.—kids running around outside with no shoes. Living in a city apartment, that’s something my kids rarely get to do. But on this trip, they did. And they loved it.
Now, I feel recharged. Not fully rested (because, you know… kids), but definitely filled with joy.
For those of you spending summer in Spain with children, here’s a little tip: from Valencia (which is just 45 minutes by car from Castellón), there are short, affordable flights to Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca. And ferries too, if you want to venture to the stunning Formentera.
Summer may feel long—but with a little spontaneity, a bit of planning, and a sense of adventure, it’s possible to make it meaningful, even magical.
Here’s to barefoot kids, 30-minute flights, and embracing every one of those 18 summers (as best you can). #lifeinspain #lifeabroad #summer #movingwhere #movingwheremothers #expatlife #americansinspain #parentingabroad #castellon #Castello
Author: admin
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When Summer Feels Long… But You Only Get 18 of Them
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CD Castellón: Small City, Big Dreams (and a Whole Lot of Heart)
Let me start by saying this: I’m not a soccer player. Not even a lifelong fan. But somehow—somewhere between the black-and-white scarves and the roar of a packed stadium—I became a believer. A believer in Castellón Club de Fútbol.
For those unfamiliar, CD Castellón is the heart and soul of this Mediterranean city. They’ve historically played in Spain’s third division, a far cry from giants like FC Barcelona or Real Madrid in La Liga (that’s the first division for us rookies). But here’s the beauty of Spanish football: there’s room to rise. Teams can move up—and down—based on performance, which makes every game, every goal, and every call from the ref matter.
And last season? Castellón soared. They earned promotion to the second division, sending shockwaves of excitement through the city. Locals cheered, flags waved, and fans began dreaming bigger than ever.
The story gets even more interesting. Enter Haralabos “Bob” Voulgaris, a Canadian-Greek entrepreneur and former data guru for the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks. He saw potential in this team—and the town—and bought the club. Since then, Bob has been all-in. Stadium upgrades, new facilities, and a training complex in nearby Borriol with eight fields.
But this isn’t just about shiny new infrastructure. It’s about people. The team is now a global mosaic, with players from the U.S., Mali, Brazil, the Netherlands, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The head coach? Also Dutch.
Bob himself said he was drawn to Castellón because of its fiercely loyal fanbase. He’s not wrong. The stadium is packed game after game, with fans living and breathing every moment. It’s a feeling—a pulse—you can only understand when you’re in the stands, scarf on, heart pounding.
And guess what? Even CD Castellón B, the club’s second team, is on the rise—they’ve just been promoted too. Double the reason to celebrate.
So, is it possible for CD Castellón to make it all the way to Spain’s first division? With a little talent, a lot of heart—and okay, a bit of Bob’s money—anything is possible. And if (or when) that day comes, this underdog city will finally get its moment on the global stage. Something its fans can only dream of.
Until then, come feel the energy. Grab a black-and-white scarf. Cheer with the locals. And fall in love with a team that’s giving Castellón more than just goals—it’s giving it hope, pride, and a really good reason to dream big.
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Not Sure Where to Move Abroad? Skip the Big Cities
Photo accredited to www.comunitatvalenciana.com Discover Castellón de la Plana, Spain
When most people dream of moving abroad, the usual suspects pop up: Barcelona, Bali, Lisbon, Dubai. But what if you’re craving something different?
Something smaller, more grounded, and more community-oriented—without giving up culture, coastline, or convenience.
Castellón de la Plana. You’ve probably never heard of it. And that may be a good thing!
Tucked between the Mediterranean Sea and Spanish mountains, Castellón offers a rare balance: a coastal lifestyle, excellent public services, a low cost of living, and a strong sense of community. It’s stroller-friendly, bikeable (it’s flat), packed with parks, plazas, & beaches, and enough activities that make everyday family life feel manageable—and even joyful.
And now, we’ve made it even easier to explore if Castellón might be your next home.
✨ Download our FREE Castellón City Guide — designed by expat mothers, for expat mothers — packed with everything you need to know, including:
✅ Visa and residency options (from tourist to entrepreneur visas)
✅ Neighborhood breakdowns to suit your family’s lifestyle
✅ Healthcare and school options (including international programs)
✅ How to get around without a car
✅ Local festivals, cultural quirks, and where to find your next favorite meal
✅ Family-friendly excursions, emergency contacts, and mama-approved co-working spaces
Whether you’re still exploring where to move or already picturing your kids in a plaza playing while you’re drinking tinto de verano at 10 PM (yes, that’s normal here), this guide is your first step.
Ready to discover a different kind of expat life—one where family, affordability, and fresh air come first? Download the guide here.
We created this guide because we’ve been there: the overwhelm, the excitement, the uncertainty. And we’re here to help you find your community and confidence in Castellón.
This isn’t just a move. It’s a lifestyle upgrade.
#movingabroad #expatlife #familytravel #Castellon #MovingWhere #relocation #Castellondelaplana #castellonspain #worklifebalance #SpainWithKids #digitalnomads #coastalcities #momsabroad #expatmoms
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Why Global Mamas Love May in Spain (2025 Version)
According to Spain’s Official Tourism Portal (www.spain.info), May offers 300+ family-focused festivals—more than any European country. Whether you’re already in Spain or dreaming of moving here, these 3 local festivals offer unforgettable ways to enjoy Spanish traditions with your kids:
1. Jerez Horse Fair Andalusia’s Equestrian Heritage 📅May 17–24
The Feria del Caballo de Jerez (Jerez Horse Fair) is one of Andalusia’s most dazzling and aristocratic fairs, blending flamenco, sherry, and equestrian grandeur. Held in Jerez de la Frontera (Cádiz province), it’s a must-see for lovers of Spanish culture.
- UNESCO-Recognized equestrian artistry (Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art)
- Kids’ Day (May 20): Pony rides & flamenco workshops.
- Horse Parades
- The Fairgrounds (Real de la Feria)
- Nighttime Fairground Parties
Pro Tips from Local Moms:
- Rent traditional Traje de Gitana dresses (€15-30/day) at the boutiques on Calle Larga —perfect for matching family photos!
- Public Casetas: Head to Casetas Municipales for open-access fun.
- Horse Events: The Paseo de Caballo (horse parade) happens daily around noon.
- Transport: The fairgrounds (Parque González Hontoria) are a 20-min walk from downtown; taxis are plentiful.
- Dress Code: Locals dress up—join in with a flamenco dress or smart-casual attire.
2. Cruces de Mayo (May Crosses Festival) 📅May 1–3
The festival in Granada is one of Andalusia’s most vibrant spring celebrations, blending religious tradition, floral artistry, and lively street parties. Here’s what makes it special:
- 42 Flower Crosses compete for “Most Creative” award (Judged by botanists & historians)
- Free Craft Stations: Make your own floral cross
- Street Parties & “Casetas”
Pro Tips from Local Moms:
- Best Day to Go: May 3 (Day of the Cross), when all crosses are finished and parties peak.
- Route: Start at Plaza del Carmen (city hall’s giant cross), then explore Albaicín and Realejo.
- Try: Tortilla del Sacromonte (local omelette) and habas con jamón (broad beans with ham) from bars near the crosses.
- Transport: Walk or take minibuses to the Albaicín (narrow streets make parking impossible).
3. Feria de San Isidro, Madrid 📅 May 15-30
The Feria de San Isidro is Madrid’s most iconic traditional festival, celebrating the city’s patron saint, San Isidro Labrador (St. Isidore the Farmer). While the religious feast day is May 15, the festivities—especially the bullfighting season—often extend through late May.
- Bull Fighting at Las Ventas
- Street Parties and Music
- On May 15, locals dress in traditional chulapo attire (men in checked caps, women in polka-dot dresses) and head to the Ermita de San Isidro.
Pro Tip from Local Moms:
- The best day to experience authenticity is May 15, but bullfighting fans should check Las Ventas’ schedule for peak dates.
- For nightlife when you leave the kids with a babysitter, head to La Latina bars after the verbenas.
Thinking of moving to Spain with your family? These festivals are just a taste of the rich, local life waiting for you. Which one would you and your kids love most?
#MovingWhere #MamaCommunity #GlobalMamaLife #FamilyLifeAbroad #CulturalParenting
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Our First Easter Event
Our First Ever MovingWhere Easter Eggstravaganza! 🐣🌸
Yesterday, we welcomed spring with our very first MovingWhere family event—an Easter Eggstravaganza that brought joy, lots of chocolate, laughter, and connection to over 30 kids and their families!
One of the most challenging parts of living away from your home country is missing out on the cultural traditions and holidays you are used to celebrating. Celebrations like Easter can feel a little lonelier, a little quieter, and a little less like “home.”
That’s exactly why we were so excited to host this event—a chance to recreate those special moments and share them with our community.
From decorating Easter eggs to a competitive egg hunt, fun games, and even a lively mini disco, the day was packed with smiles and memories. While the kids hopped from activity to activity, parents had the chance to meet new faces, reconnect with familiar ones, and enjoy some relaxed time together.
For those who celebrate Easter, we hope this brought a sense of comfort and familiarity. And for those experiencing it for the first time, it was a joyful peek into another cultural tradition—one we were so happy to share.
This event is exactly what MovingWhere is all about. Creating spaces to connect, celebrate, and build meaningful communities wherever you are in the world.
We’re already looking forward to the next one. 💛
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⚽ Sports in Spain: What Moms Should Know Before the Big Move 🇪🇸
Thinking of relocating to Spain with your family? Here’s what you need to know about youth sports before you unpack those cleats and lacrosse equipment.
⚽ Football Is King—And It’s All Year Long
If there’s one thing you’ll notice right away, it’s that soccer (or football, as the rest of the world calls it) reigns supreme. For many Spanish kids, football is the sport.
Unlike the U.S., where sports are split by season (soccer in the fall, basketball in winter, baseball in spring), football in Spain is year-round. This consistency allows kids to really develop their skills and improve steadily. But it also means there’s less opportunity to try out different sports throughout the year.
Gender Gaps in Youth Football
One thing that stood out to us as a family was the disparity between boys and girls in football. While girls can play, the number of teams and opportunities for them are fewer than what we experienced in the U.S. It was a bit disappointing, especially if you have a daughter who’s passionate about soccer.
Where Are the Girls? Think Gymnastics
While boys flock to football, many girls gravitate toward gymnastics—especially rhythmic gymnastics, which is particularly popular in Spain. You’ll also find artistic gymnastics classes, and they often have strong communities and regular performances or competitions.
If your child is interested in gymnastics, be prepared to sign up early. These classes fill up fast!
🏀🎾🏑 Other Sports Exist—But It’s Not the U.S.
You can definitely find basketball, hockey, tennis, track & field, and golf, among other sports. But the variety and visibility of youth sports in Spain is more limited compared to the U.S.
There’s no cultural push to “try a new sport every season” like you often find in American youth leagues. Some kids specialize early—and that’s the norm.
Moms, Meet Padel—Your New Best Friend
Let’s not forget about you, mama! If you’re looking to get moving and make new friends, padel might become your new favorite thing. It’s a tennis-meets-squash sport that’s huge in Spain right now, especially among adults.
It’s easy to learn, super social, and a great way to sneak in some fitness while building your new circle. At MovingWhere, we even offer some Padel Tournaments where you can join to meet new friends and show off your new skills!
Final Tips: Know What’s Available Before You Arrive
Before you make the move, it’s worth doing a little research on the sports centers (polideportivos) and clubs in your future neighborhood. Ask local parents, look up teams online, or join a city-specific expat mom group for insider info.
Pro Tip: Sports often operate outside of school, through clubs or academies. So don’t assume school will automatically provide athletic options.
Have You Experienced Youth Sports in Spain?
We’d love to hear from other mothers who’ve made the move. What sports did your kids get into? What surprised you most? Drop a comment below or share this with a fellow mama heading to Spain.
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How to Help Your Children Adapt to a New City Abroad
Moving to a new city, especially abroad, can be a big adjustment for families. It’s a transition that comes with excitement, challenges, and plenty of opportunities for growth. For children, it can mean leaving behind familiar surroundings, friends, and routines. Helping them adapt requires patience, planning, and a focus on creating a sense of stability in their new environment. With the right approach, you can turn this potentially overwhelming experience into a positive adventure for the whole family.
1. Happy Mom, Happy Kids
You know how on airplanes they tell you to put your oxygen mask on first? That’s not just for emergencies; it’s a metaphor for life abroad. If you’re walking around like a ball of stress, your kids will pick up on it faster than they can swipe your phone to watch YouTube. Prioritize your own happiness: find your favorite coffee spot, take a yoga class, or join a local expat moms’ group. When you’re feeling good, your kids are much more likely to feel good too.
2. Help Your Kids Find Their Tribe
Help them connect with peers by enrolling them in activities they already love — soccer, ballet, Minecraft coding classes (yes, that’s a thing now). Or, encourage them to try something new! Who knows? Your little one might discover a hidden talent for pottery or flamenco dancing.
3. Be a Cheerleader for Cultural Changes
Encourage them to embrace the quirks of their new home. Laugh about how you’ll never fully understand why dinner happens at 9 PM or why some shops close during lunch time. Be positive, even when you’re thinking, “Why on Earth is milk in a box and not in the fridge?”
4. Understand the Stages of Culture Shock
Moving abroad comes with predictable phases: honeymoon (“This place is amazing!”), frustration (“Why can’t I find peanut butter anywhere?!”), adaptation (“Fine, almond butter it is”), and finally, acceptance (“Peanut butter is overrated anyway”). Kids experience these too, but not necessarily on the same schedule as you. Give them space to vent, cry, or stomp around. It’s all part of the process.
5. Expect the Unexpected
Even if you nail every transition tip, there will be bumps. Maybe your child declares they hate everything about the new city on Day 3. Or maybe it’s Day 83. That’s okay. Transitions are messy. Keep a sense of humor and remind yourself (and them) that this is temporary. Eventually, your child will stop asking, “Why can’t we just go back home?” and start saying, “This is home.”
6. Keep the Lines of Communication Open
If your kid’s behavior suddenly shifts, don’t panic. Ask questions. (Pro tip: avoid the classic, “How was school?” unless you’re prepared for the one-word response: “Fine.”) Instead, try specific questions like, “What was the funniest thing that happened today?” or “What’s something new you’ve learned about your classmates?” These prompts can help you get the real scoop.
7. Stay Connected to Old Friends and Family
Just because you’ve crossed oceans doesn’t mean your child has to lose their old connections. Schedule regular video calls with their friends or grandparents. Let them send postcards (yes, snail mail still exists!) or texts. Familiar faces and voices can work wonders when they’re feeling homesick.
8. Encourage Journaling
Sure, your kid might roll their eyes at the idea of journaling, but hear me out. Journals don’t judge. They’re a safe space to vent, dream, or doodle pictures of their new pet gecko (or their dislike of geckos, depending on the kid). Plus, years from now, they’ll have a cool time capsule of this adventure.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
Relocating with kids is not for the faint-hearted, but it’s also an incredible gift. You’re giving your children the chance to see the world, adapt to change, and learn that home is wherever your family is. So, take a deep breath and embrace the chaos.
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How to Build Your Mama Community: Tips for Making Friends and Finding Support
Moving to a new country can feel like navigating uncharted waters, but building a supportive mom community is one of the best ways to make the transition smoother and more enjoyable for you and your family. Here are practical tips to help you connect with others, foster friendships, and create a strong support network in your new home.
1. Join Mom Groups and Playdates
One of the easiest ways to meet other mothers is by joining local mom groups or attending organized playdates. These gatherings are a great opportunity to connect with moms who understand the challenges of parenting in a new environment. If you’re unsure where to start, MovingWhere’s platform connects you with local mothers and provides information on meetups.
2. Attend Local Events and Classes
Signing up for activities that interest you or your kids can be a gateway to meeting like-minded people. Whether it’s a yoga class, a toddler music group, or a cooking workshop, these settings often foster organic connections. MovingWhere’s curated list of local events ensures you find activities that suit your interests and schedule.
3. Participate in Expat Communities
Many cities have vibrant expat communities that organize events and activities for families. These groups are excellent resources for sharing experiences and tips on navigating life abroad. Connect through social media platforms, forums, or MovingWhere’s networking tools to find expat meetups in your area.
4. Host a Gathering
Sometimes, taking the initiative is the best way to build connections. Hosting a casual coffee morning or playdate can help you meet neighbors and other moms in your area. Invite families you’ve met through school, activities, or online groups.
5. Tap Into Local Knowledge
Having questions about the best schools, reliable plumbers, or family-friendly restaurants? MovingWhere provides a centralized space to ask these questions and get answers from other mothers who’ve been in your shoes. This resource ensures you’re never left to figure it out on your own.
6. Encourage Kids to Build Their Community
Children thrive when they feel connected, and helping them make friends can, in turn, strengthen your mom network. Enroll them in sports teams, art classes, or language groups where they can meet peers. Simultaneously, you’ll meet other parents with similar goals and values.
7. Stay Open to Cultural Differences
Embrace the unique aspects of your new home and use them as conversation starters. Whether it’s asking a local mom about traditional dishes or joining in a regional festival, showing interest in the culture can open doors to new friendships.
8. Schedule Regular Check-Ins with Loved Ones Back Home
Maintaining ties with friends and family from your home country can be grounding. Share your experiences and encourage your children to keep in touch with their friends. This balance helps you feel connected to your roots while building your new community.
The MovingWhere Advantage
Building a mama community doesn’t have to be overwhelming. MovingWhere makes it easier by:
- Connecting you to local mothers in your area.
- Organizing meetups for moms and kids to foster friendships.
- Providing a platform for questions about everything from doctors to dance classes.
- Curating events and classes that align with your interests and needs.
With MovingWhere, you’re never alone in your journey. By creating a supportive network, you’ll not only make the transition easier but also enrich your life with meaningful connections and shared experiences.
Final Thoughts
Building a mama community takes effort, but the rewards are immense. By reaching out, staying open, and using resources like MovingWhere, you’ll create a network that supports you through the challenges and joys of parenting abroad. Remember, every connection you make is a step toward feeling truly at home.
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What No One Tells You About Moving to Spain
Spain is a magical land of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and incredible food. But when you make the leap to move here, there are a few quirks and surprises that might catch you off guard. Let’s dive into what no one tells you about moving to Spain – the good, the surprising, and the downright charming.
1. Healthcare: A Tale of Two Systems
Spain has a dual healthcare system, offering both public and private options. Public healthcare is excellent and often free or very affordable for residents; however you may have to wait to get an appointment. But here’s the kicker: many private doctors also work in the public system, moonlighting in private clinics to supplement their income (that topic is for another post). This means you could end up seeing the same doctor whether you choose public or private care! The private route might be quicker for appointments, but you’re not sacrificing quality in the public system.
2. Sundays Are Sacred
Prepare yourself: Sundays in Spain are quiet, almost eerily so. Shops, supermarkets, and many restaurants close their doors, leaving the streets feeling like a scene from a post-apocalyptic movie. Spaniards take this day seriously for rest and family time, so plan your grocery runs and errands accordingly.
3. Sobremesa: The Art of Lingering
One of Spain’s best-kept secrets is the concept of sobremesa. This isn’t just lingering at the table after a meal; it’s a cherished ritual of connection. Whether you’re with family, friends, or colleagues, sobremesa is about savoring conversations as much as the meal itself. Forget about rushing off – in Spain, the clock takes a backseat to quality time.
4. Dinner? Think Midnight Feast
Okay, maybe not midnight, but dinner in Spain can stretch well into the evening. Especially during the summer months, you’ll find families and friends gathering for dinner as late as 9 or 10 p.m. It might take some adjusting, but soon you’ll embrace the leisurely pace and the joy of dining under the stars.
5. Tipping Is (Almost) Nonexistent
If you’re coming from a tipping-heavy culture, Spain’s relaxed attitude toward gratuity will be a breath of fresh air. In most cases, rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is more than enough. This lack of tipping doesn’t mean service is lacking – Spaniards simply don’t build tipping into their dining culture.
6. Family and Friendships Are Everything
Spain’s social fabric is woven with strong family ties and friendships. Weekends are filled with gatherings, meals, and celebrations, fostering a sense of community that’s downright inspiring. Moving here means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to embrace this culture of connection. Just remember: relationships are built slowly but surely, so take the time to nurture them.
7. The Healthy Mediterranean Lifestyle
Life in Spain often feels like a postcard – fresh produce, outdoor markets, and daily walks are part of the routine. Whether it’s tapas with friends or long strolls along the beach, Spaniards prioritize balance. This lifestyle isn’t just healthy; it’s a delightful way to live.
Embrace the Charm of Spain
Moving to Spain is a whirlwind of new experiences, cultural adjustments, and moments of sheer delight. Yes, the late dinners and Sunday closures might take some getting used to, but these quirks are what make life in Spain so special. So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and get ready to fall in love with this incredible country.
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How to Build a Support Network in a New City
Moving to a new city can be an exciting chapter of life. It’s a chance to explore, grow, and create new experiences. But let’s be honest: it can also be overwhelming, especially for mothers. Between finding schools, healthcare providers, and playgroups, and simply adjusting to a new environment, the emotional toll can add up quickly. Yet, one of the most transformative steps in making your transition smoother is building a support network.
At MovingWhere, we understand that settling into a new city is about more than unpacking boxes. It’s about finding your community, your tribe. That’s why our platform is designed to help moms like you connect, grow, and thrive in your new home. Here’s how to get started:
1. Acknowledge the Challenges—And Ask for Help
Moving, especially to a different country, is a big deal. It’s okay to feel out of place or unsure at times. These emotions are a natural part of adapting to a new environment. The key is to acknowledge them and remind yourself that it’s perfectly fine to ask for help. MovingWhere’s community-building tools, like our group chats and resource guides, are here to support you when you’re navigating unfamiliar territory.
2. Connect Through Community Meetups
One of the easiest ways to meet new people is to attend community events. MovingWhere organizes meetups specifically for mothers, providing a welcoming space where you can share stories, seek advice, and forge friendships. Whether it’s a coffee morning, a park playdate, or a themed networking event, our meetups are designed to help you build genuine connections.
3. Leverage Online and Offline Networking Tools
Our platform features group chats tailored to different interests and needs. Whether you’re seeking parenting tips, local recommendations, or simply someone to share a laugh with, there’s a space for you. Pair this with our in-person events, and you have a holistic approach to building your network—both online and offline.
4. Embrace the Power of Community
When mothers feel supported and connected, families thrive. Finding a network where you can share your joys and challenges doesn’t just benefit you—it creates a ripple effect that strengthens your entire family. Your happiness and well-being are foundational to creating a positive environment at home.
5. Don’t Forget Self-Care
While building your network, remember to care for yourself. Settling into a new city takes time, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out immediately. Use MovingWhere’s resources to ease your transition and focus on what matters most: your well-being and your family.
Why MovingWhere is Here for You
At MovingWhere, we know that the early days of living in a new place can be a whirlwind of emotions and logistics. That’s why we’ve created a platform that goes beyond just information—we focus on connection. From networking events to tailored resources for moms, we’re here to help you navigate this new chapter with confidence.
Moving to a new city is a journey, but it doesn’t have to be one you take alone. Through community, connection, and support, you’ll find your place and make your new city feel like home. And remember, when moms are happy, families usually follow suit.Let MovingWhere be your guide as you build a life you love in your new city.
