Personal Stories from Our Clients: Successfully Settling and Thriving in Valencia and "Thanking Donald"

Have you ever wondered what it’s really like to pack up your life and start afresh in Valencia? If you’re thinking about making the leap, or you’re just curious about what daily life is like for newcomers, this one’s for you. We’ve had the privilege of working with people from all over the world who now call Valencia home, and today we want to share some of their stories, lessons, and honest reflections.

From “What Have I Done?” to “Why Didn’t I Move Sooner?”

Almost every potential buyer of Valencia Property we’ve met starts with a cocktail of excitement and nerves. There’s the initial rush of finding a new apartment (sometimes before even learning how to order coffee in Spanish), the joys and frustrations of paperwork, and the thrill of discovering your local bakery. The most common refrain we hear a few months in? “I wish I’d done this years ago.”

Take Sarah, who swapped London’s drizzle for Valencia’s sunshine. She admits the first weeks were overwhelming—navigating the NIE process, figuring out which supermarkets stocked her favourite things, and getting used to the Spanish timetable (hello, late dinners!). But she also found a community of fellow newcomers eager to help. “Everyone remembers what it was like to be new,” she told me. “People genuinely want to see you succeed.”

Learning the Ropes (and the Language)

Many immigrants are surprised by how quickly they adapt. Sure, there can be a few bureaucratic headaches, but those are usually offset by the daily pleasures of life here—morning walks on the Turia, impromptu terrace gatherings, and the satisfaction of ordering a café con leche without hesitation (And then learning all of the other coffee variations).

If you’re thinking of making the move, the best advice we can share from our clients is to get involved. Join a language exchange, say yes to invitations (even if you’re not sure what you’ve agreed to), and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Valencia’s international community is tight-knit and diverse, and most people are more than happy to share tips, recommend their favourite neighbourhood, or point you to the best horchata in town.

Want to see more? We wrote more about advice that our past clients gave to our future clients on the blog and you can read it here. You can also Browse the latest listings or just reply to this email and tell us what you’re looking for.

Property Highlights: 

Find Your Place in the Story

Of course, finding the right place to live is a huge part of settling in. That’s where we come in. Whether you’re after a city-centre apartment, a villa with a view, or something a little quirky, we can help you navigate the market, avoid common pitfalls, and settle in with confidence.

• Port Playa Palms Pad – Valencia Beach Area: Four bedrooms, sea views, and a quick stroll to the beach.
• Good in Godella – Godella: A modern townhouse just a quick metro ride from the city centre.
• 89 Seconds to Midnight Villa – Naquera: Panoramic mountain views, private pool, and space to breathe.

More From Our Blog: Stories, Practical Tips and Thanks

If you’re wondering why so many Americans are choosing Valencia, you might enjoy our recent post, “Thank You From Valencia Mr Trump.” It’s a heavily sarcastic look at how recent political shifts in the US have led to a record year for American arrivals in Spain. Many of our clients cite concerns about safety, quality of life, and a desire for a more progressive, affordable environment—reasons that Valencia delivers on in spades.

Spain consistently ranks as one of the safest and most affordable countries in Europe, with a cost of living 25-40% lower than most American cities. The welcoming atmosphere, strong sense of community, and vibrant economy driven by newcomers make Valencia especially attractive. We’re grateful for every new arrival who brings fresh perspectives and energy to our city.

So, to all those who have made the leap—and perhaps have a certain political figure to thank for the nudge—welcome to your new home. You’ll find that Valencia offers the community, safety, and lifestyle you’ve been searching for.

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Whether you’re just starting to dream or you’re already packing your bags, remember: every Valencia Property client who now feels at home here was once in your shoes. If you have questions or want to share your own story, just hit reply. We’d love to hear from you.

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