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
Tag: Life in Spain
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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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⚽ 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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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.
