Spain's Costa del Sol - Where would you Rather Live?

Looking back at the archived article below, from 2004, it was difficult not to get tied up in thoughts of the world's property slump and financial problems. The Costa del Sol was home to a great deal of growth and it certainly has taken a hit now that a readjustment is taking place. However, it also struck me that, even in these times, Spain is still a very desirable location to live. The property crash is hitting most of the world, but people still need to live somewhere ...

Looking at it from this angle, the Costa del Sol offers more than 300 sunny days a year, average temperatures of 20 degrees and a wealth of diversions and entertainment for all the family. More than capital gain, these features and the lifestyle it provides, are why the Costa del Sol (and arguably Spain as a whole) will continue to attract those looking to set up a new life or purchase a second home.

While property developers are always looking to make a profit, the vast majority of people put priority on a happy and enjoyable life - something that Spain, especially here on the Costa del Sol, can provide in spades whatever the economic climate.


From 2004 - "Property sales in Costa del Sol are still be as strong as ever, with continued development everywhere and some 50,000 new houses being built every year. Divided into two distinct parts, East and West, the Eastern Costa del Sol covers the 50 or so km east of Malaga and includes towns such as Nerja, Torrox Costa and Torre del Mar. Although less developed than the Western Costa del Sol, this is still a popular area with the British and other Europeans, counting a significant number of property sales in Costa del Sol, the pace of sales and construction having grown rapidly over the past few years. The Western Costa del Sol covers the 100 or so km from Malaga down to Cadiz and includes towns such as Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Mijas and Marbella. Far more developed than the eastern Costa, this area could be said to count for the majority of property sales in Costa del Sol.

Property on Costa del Sol, whichever way you look at it, has always been considered a good investment and many buyers have doubled or tripled the value of their property in the past 10 years. Malaga airport provides daily flights to the main European cities, ensuring excellent access and cheap flights for those who have bought property on Costa del Sol with a view to holidaying regularly in the area and, of course, encouraging a healthy property rental market. The Costa del Sol is one of the most popular all-year-round destinations of Europe with an average temperature of 18 degrees and a wide range of attractions in the area including excellent beaches, attraction parks, and world-renowned golf courses, one can see why this area attracts visitors, young and old. Not only for tourists, the Costa del Sol has become a popular place for retirement and a change of life-style for many northern Europeans. Keen to move away from the cold winters and high prices, more and more Brits (and other Europeans) are opting for a life in the sun and making a permanent move to their property on Costa del Sol."