Moving to Torrevieja - Page 2

Like wise I've travelled the world,  but never seen ladies ply there trade sitting on a chair next to a roundabout on a bloody hot day , no were to clean up, don't fancy seconds do you, 

Thanks Carol, that's really helpful. We are still in very early days of planning so hearing from real people like you is exactly what we need. 

In the past we've had more holidays on the Costa Del Sol, but property is much more expensive there. We love Spain and we need to find the right place for us. We've got lots of investigating to do. 

Thanks again

Kay

We bought our house in Torrevieja 18 years ago or more and have NEVER regretted the purchase.  We don’t live there but make a lot of use of it.  We are on the La Mata side of the town, within walking distance of a stunning, sandy beach.  If we want to visit Torrevieja for a meal, we take a taxi but the buses run regularly and cost around €1.35 each. Closeby, we have all our amenities.  Mercadona, optician, dentist, farmacia, restaurants, schools and a church. In the winter, which is our favourite time, we love to walk along the coast into either La Mata or towards Torrevieja. You can stop for a coffee, a drink of water or a glass of vino and the cost is so little. All about €1.50 and that is vino too.  Many Scandinavians have bought near us and they all play POTANCA/ Bowls in the purpose built area nearby.  Anyone can join in so is a wonderful way to meet the neighbours.

Alicante airport is approx 30 to 35 minutes drive along the N332.

We don’t seem to have many expats on our side of town but if that is what you want, try Villa Martin, La Zenia, Playa Flamenca but don’t try driving into Torrevieja in the summer as the traffic jams are horrendous.  You also couldn’t walk to the beach but could consider Cabo Roig which is lovely and on the coast side.

Torrevieja is a working town which stays alive all year around. Shops, banks, restaurants and many apartment blocks.  Car parking can be impossible unless you use the carparks and are prepared to pay.  

Are you planning to rent to family, friends and people from home?  Probably your very best option.  You will need a very reliable couple to look after your place..maintainable and good solid cleaning. 

You MUST visit the area and spend time walking / driving about and see what really appeals to you and if you make the right choice, you are on to a winner.

Look for aircon.  Storage.  A good place to dry your washing. Car parking outside.

Make sure your living room has a door so that you can warm it during the cold winter evenings. Spain isn’t all about scorching sunshine. We have our fair share of rain for a supposed dry country.  Make sure the area you choose has never flooded....ask questions.  

Apartments can bring problems with noisy, dirty neighbours.  Keep your eyes open.

Unfortunately, people rent out to locals who sometimes don’t have the same high standards as we do....be warned.  Be careful where you buy. Look at the footpaths for cleanliness. Graffiti can also be a problem. 

Once you have narrowed down an area that you like, visit it at different times of the day and night.

Make sure your place is facing south so that you get the evening sun.  Again. Visit it at different times of the day to see what it is like.

It’s a bit of a mine field so I wish you luck.

Buy on a bus route...not everyone wants to drive.

Good outside space is a must. Aim for 2 bathrooms too or see if there is room to add another one.  Don’t pick a property where you have to walk a distance from your car with all your shopping etc.,  a lift is also important if buying an apartment.

Also,  privacy for relaxing in the sun is a must. You don’t wNt the world and his friends looking at you.

Listen for dog barking....the spanish sometimes aren’t as caring about their animals as we are. Dog barking, day and night will drive you crazy.

Once you have found the perfect place, you are ready to live the dream!

Just don’t rush into anything until you are 100% certain you could sell the place tomorrow if the need arose.

We have lived in Torrevieja for 12 years now ,and love it ,we have only heard about the occasional crime but never came across any,we are night birds and have walked the streets in early hours of the morning carefree ,our small town in Ireland has more crime.Villamartin is lovely if you are 80 +and like to read a lot. Come to Torrevieja the Spanish people are lovely

Great, thanks that's really helpful!

We're both in our late 30's, I think we'll like Torrevieja a lot and we're looking forward to coming over next year and having a good look around.

Alas I am nowhere near 80 and like reading but it’s not a hobby of mine just like upmarket areas and quality properties, The Boulevard is far superior to the one in Torrevieja and beaches are superb, the entertainment in Villamartín square is also very good with lots of young people and families but you would have to visit the area to know that.

Sorry must have stepped on a few toes there, I came to Spain for the sun sea sand and good living not for the"upmarket " ??  Shopping centres(Boulevard). Villamartin centre is deserted for 9 months of the year and offers a very limited amount of restaurants ,and more important no beach, probably ok for a quick stay.You are in your 30s  ,rent in Villamartin for a week in November and see

Hi I have lived in Guardamar for 6 years and love it. It's a beautiful Spanish town and has everything. A lovely beach, lots of nice restaurants and shops. Please visit and give it a try. Bobbyboo

I’d be interested to know where the beaches are at Villamartin? The nearest sand to there must be the bunkers in the golf course! 

We bought in Playa Flamenca in 2014.  Love it. Close to the la zenia boulevard, a few mins drive from a few beaches.  Spoilt for choice. The Saturday Market is also in Playa Flamenca.  Good luck with your search