Shows
Spainfully HonestEpisode 34: Driving in Spain: How to Get Your Spanish Driving Licence After MovingThinking about driving in Spain or stressing over Spanish driving license paperwork? This week’s episode is your practical guide to understanding how driving licenses actually work when you live here. We chat through the real steps, real timelines, and real experiences behind getting or renewing a Spanish driving licence, so you know exactly what to expect before you start the process.We break down the rules for EU and non-EU residents and walk through the key stages like medical exams, booking appointments, and submitting documents. If you’ve ever felt confused by Spanish admin, this...
2026-02-1743 min
Spainfully HonestEpisode 33: Finding love in Spain & Carnaval in SpainIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, we talk about two things that are hard to miss right now: Carnaval and Valentine’s Day.With Carnaval taking over towns and cities across Spain, we look at what it’s all about, how it’s celebrated, and why it’s such a big part of Spanish life. From costumes and parades to the social side of it all, it’s a chance to let go, have fun and spend time with other people.We also chat about finding love in Spain, especially as Valentine’s Day is coming up. F...
2026-02-101h 00
Spainfully HonestEpisode 32: Digital Certificates and Signatures in SpainIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine break down digital certificates and digital signatures in Spain. They cover why they matter, how they work, and why they can feel especially confusing when you’re a foreigner dealing with Spanish bureaucracy. Along the way, there are a few cultural observations, personal stories, and a look ahead to what’s coming next, from finding love in Spain to Carnaval season.Of course, there is the usual chit chat about life in Spain, including Catherine recording a segment for an Irish TV show!
2026-02-0348 min
Spainfully HonestEpisode 31: The Padrón in Spain ExplainedIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine take a look at the Padrón in Spain and why it matters more than many people realise when living in Spain. They talk through what it is, why you need it, and how to register, including the documents you’ll be asked for and what can catch people out. While the process is undeniably bureaucratic, the conversation focuses on how being prepared makes things far less stressful.And of course, it wouldn’t be Spainfully Honest without the usual banter between the hosts and a few real-life exper...
2026-01-2744 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 30: TIE Renewal in Spain: A Practical GuideIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine talk through what renewing your TIE (Tarjeta de Identificación de Extranjero) in Spain actually looks like in real life, especially if you’ve been here five years or more. They break down what you need to have ready, why being organised really matters, and how having your paperwork in order can save you a lot of stress later on.They also chat about how much of the process has moved online in recent years, and why getting comfortable with Spain’s digital systems is no longer optional if yo...
2026-01-2053 min
Spainfully HonestEpisode 29: New Year Resolutions in SpainIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine talk New Year’s resolutions and what they really look like when you’re living in Spain. From keeping fit and making the most of the outdoor lifestyle to tackling harder goals like quitting cigarettes, they discuss how Spanish routines and everyday life can support healthier habits without overcomplicating things.As part of this topic, they also focus on something that often gets overlooked: making friends and building a new community in Spain. As always, Paul and Catherine share their own resolutions alongside plenty of...
2026-01-131h 07
Spainfully HonestEpisode 28: Living in Spain: Best bits so farIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine take a step back and reflect on how the podcast has evolved so far. They look back at some of the key topics they’ve covered, from the realities of everyday life in Spain to education in Spain, property in Spain, work and healthcare in Spain, and the cultural stuff you only really learn by living here.Not a culture shock in sight!Chapters00:00 Welcome to Spainfully Honest05:01 Looking back at how the podcast has grown09:35 Figuring ou...
2026-01-061h 09Spainfully HonestEpisode 27: New Year's Eve in SpainNew Year in Spain can look very different depending on where you are. In this episode of Spainfully Honest, we talk about Spanish New Year traditions, what Nochevieja in Spain is like in the major cities, and how to find out what’s happening in your own area, including family-friendly activities and events for kids.**Chapters:**00:00:00 Introduction to Spainfully Honest00:05:00 Exploring New Year's Eve in Spain00:15:00 What's happening on New Year's Eve in Spain from Alicante to Madrid00:30:00 New Year Traditions and Customs00:45:00 Travel Tips and Recommendations for New Year's Eve in Spain01:00:00 Co...
2025-12-2836 min
Spainfully HonestEpisode 26: Celebrating Three kings in SpainIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine talk about Three Kings Day in Spain and why Reyes is often more important than Christmas. They look at how it’s celebrated, from the Cabalgata parades to the traditions that bring towns and neighbourhoods together. The conversation also focuses on life in Murcia, what makes it feel truly Spanish, and how local markets and community events are a big part of the festive season. They also chat about the must-have Roscón de Reyes and why joining in with local traditions is one of the best ways to...
2025-12-2151 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 25: Christmas in SpainSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, we talk through what Christmas in Spain actually looks like day to day, from the huge build-up around the El Gordo lottery to why Christmas Eve tends to be the main event. We also chat about New Year’s Eve traditions and some of the more unusual customs that often surprise people moving from the UK or Ireland. It’s an easy, honest look at how Christmas in Spain can feel familiar in some ways, and completely different in others.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Spai...
2025-12-1640 min
Spainfully HonestEpisode 24: Expat Christmas in SpainSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine chat about where to find all the bits and pieces you need for a more traditional Christmas in Spain. From turkey, ham, and Christmas pudding to presents and decorations, they share what’s available locally, what can be harder to track down, and the places they rely on every year. It’s a straightforward guide to making Christmas feel a little more like home when you’re living abroad.The website for the company All Ireland Food is: All Ireland Foods – Authentic Irish Food & D...
2025-12-0753 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 23: Semi-Private schools in SpainThis week on Spainfully Honest: Paul and Catherine talk about education in Spain, focusing on colegios concertados, the semi-private schools. They share their experiences with Colegio Concertado Las Claras del Mar Menor, including how these schools support international students, the enrollment process, and how qualifications are recognized. They also cover language support, costs, and the overall quality of schooling. If you’re thinking about moving to Spain with your family, this episode explains what you need to know about your options.If you want more information about the Colegio Concertado Las Claras del Ma...
2025-12-0253 min
Spainfully HonestEpisode 22: Spain Visas, Taxes & ThanksgivingSummaryThis week on Spainfully Honest, Catherine and Paul talk with Christopher Hughey from AmericansMovingToSpain.com about what it’s really like for Americans and Brits moving to Spain. (Non-EU residents really...)With Thanksgiving coming up, they chat about how expats celebrate far from home, plus the emotional side of picking the right place to live. They cover the practical stuff too, visas, health insurance, taxes, and real estate challenges, while sharing tips on adjusting to life and culture in Spain. Whether you’re dreaming about moving to Spain or just curi...
2025-11-2538 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 21: The Real Cost of Living in SpainSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, the hosts take a clear look at the real cost of living in Spain. They break down everyday expenses, utilities, rent, healthcare, groceries, transport, and leisure, to give listeners a practical idea of what life here actually costs. The conversation also compares Spain’s living costs with those in the UK and the USA, highlighting where people can save money and where prices may surprise newcomers. It’s a useful, honest overview for anyone thinking about moving to Spain or wanting to u...
2025-11-181h 16
Command The CommuteWeek 11: sPAINful season so farSend us a textBob and Mike are back in the home studio for a sPAINfully honest Week 11 breakdown. We kick things off reliving last week’s tailgate feast, the unexpected Secret Service delays, and the cleanest Air Force 1 flyover ever. The highlight reel ends with the tailgate — because the football on the field was… tough.From there, we dig into where the Commanders truly stand heading into the matchup in Madrid, the pulse of the fan base, and what this team actually needs to get back on track. Then it’s time for our Week 11...
2025-11-161h 05
Spainfully HonestEpisode 20: Weekly Grocery Shopping Spain v UKSummaryIn this week’s episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine take a light-hearted look at what it’s really like to do the weekly shop in Spain. From the aisles of Mercadona to Tesco back in the UK, they compare prices, products, and a few surprising finds along the way. They chat about everything from healthy options and irresistible snacks to Mercadona’s own-brand finds and everyday essentials. Tune in for a down-to-earth chat about how far your euros really stretch in Spain and don’t forget to share your own...
2025-11-111h 01Spainfully HonestEpisode 19: Winter in SpainSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, the hosts get real about what winter living in Spain is actually like. They share personal experiences from different regions ofSpain, looking at how the climate can change from place to place and what that means for daily life. From community events to water supply challenges, heating solutions, and dealing with humidity, they cover all the practical stuff newcomers need to know.They also dive into the fun side of winter life, how local businesses adapt, the outdoor activities that don’t stop just because it’s co...
2025-11-041h 19Spainfully HonestEpisode 18: Halloween in SpainEpisode SummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine chat about how Halloween in Spain differs from the spooky celebrations they grew up with in Ireland and England. They share a few funny memories and talk about how Spanish traditions around this time of year focus more on remembrance, especially during All Saints Day in Spain (Día de todos los Santos).The conversation looks at how Halloween is slowly becoming more popular across Spain, what makes it different here, and how locals blend new customs with long-held traditions. T...
2025-10-2835 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 17: Dying in Spain & Palliative Care in Spain: What Expats Should KnowEpisode Summary: In this episode of Spainfully Honest, we talk aboutpalliative care and dying in Spain. Sue shares her experience caring for herhusband Roy, as he needed palliative support and eventually passed away inSpain. She walks us through what it was like navigating thehealthcare system and dealing with the emotional challenges of end-of-life careabroad. This episode is especially helpful for anyone living inSpain, moving to Spain, or retiring in Spain, offering real insight into whatto expect and how to prepare for these difficult moments. Some helpful resources:
2025-10-211h 12Spainfully HonestBonus Episode: DANA Alice Storm in SpainSummaryIn this episode, Catherine and Paul discuss the recent DANA Alice storm in Spain, focusing on its impact on the Murcia region and the local community's response. They cover severe flooding, water contamination risks, and the importance of accurate weather forecasts. The episode also explores media coverage and the need for better reporting especially on social media platforms. If you are thinking about moving to Spain and wondering what life is like in Spain when there is a storm/DANA/flash flooding, check out this episode. Paul and Catherine...
2025-10-1429 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 16: Unmissable Spanish Property & Furniture TipsSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine talk about a topic most moving-to-Spain podcasts don’t cover: furnishing your home. With their experience in furniture, they know how important it is to get it right, and once you listen, you’ll understand why, too.They give practical advice on picking furniture, home decor, and colors that fit the Spanish lifestyle. They also explain what to know when buying new homes and how to make the most of the local furniture options. From mattresses unique to Spain to space-saving idea...
2025-10-141h 55Spainfully HonestEpisode 15: Healthcare in SpainSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, we talk about dealing with health issues while living in Spain. Our guest shares her personal experiences with the Spanish healthcare system and gives practical tips for expats and newcomers. We discuss the importance of speaking Spanish when visiting doctors, how to get medical care in Spain, and advice for staying healthy in a new country. The episode also looks at lifestyle changes and the benefits of living in Spain, helping listeners know what to expect and how to be prepared.
2025-10-071h 10Spainfully HonestEpisode 14: Buying Property in Spain-Expert Legal AdviceSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Catherine and Paul talk with Belén from Just Law Solicitors about what you really need to know when buying property in Spain. They cover key points for foreign buyers, including how to make sure your purchase is safe, why legal checks are so important, and why you’ll need an NIE number. Belén also explains how residency status affects property ownership, what taxes to expect, and how the process works if you’re buying from abroad. The episode also looks...
2025-09-3056 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 13: Living in Spain & Spanish Traditions ExplainedEpisode SummaryIn this episode of the Spainfully Honest podcast, Paul and Catherine chat about everyday life in Spain. They talk about common superstitions, how people dress for the seasons, and what daily routines look like. They also explain birthday traditions in Spain, housing terms, driving rules, and buying second-hand cars in Spain. Listeners will hear about shopping habits, local festivals, and the little customs that make life in Spain unique. This episode is great for anyone living in Spain, planning to move here, or just curious about...
2025-09-231h 13Spainfully HonestEpisode 12: Retiring in SpainSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine talk with Sue Airy, who shares her experience of retiring to Spain. She explains what led her to make the move, the challenges she faced, and how important community and language have been in settling in. The chat looks at both the ups and downs of starting a new life abroad, with practical advice for anyone thinking about retiring in Spain. The message is clear: get involved, learn the language, and make the most of your new surroundings to enjoy life...
2025-09-161h 26Spainfully HonestEpisode 11: Working in SpainSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, hosts Paul and Catherine talk about their experiences of working in Spain, discussing the unique challenges and rewards of employment in Spain. They explore cultural differences in work hours, the importance of networking, and the impact of COVID-19 on the job market. The conversation also touches on self-employment, freelancing, and teaching English as avenues for expats. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the community and share their own stories, highlighting the importance of building connections in a new environment.Takeaways
2025-09-0959 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 10: Growing Up in SpainSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, the hosts discuss various aspects of living in Spain, including the challenges of adapting to the weather, navigating the education system, and the cultural differences between Spain and the UK. They share personal experiences and insights on transitioning to university life, the importance of extracurricular activities, and the unique upbringing that comes with living in Spain. The conversation also touches on advice for families considering a move to Spain, emphasizing the benefits of integrating into the local culture and education system.Takeaways
2025-09-0235 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 9: Property in Spain- Resort living & City lifeSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine chat to Paul from Chersun Properties SL. They discuss various aspects of living and buying property in Spain. They share personal experiences with emergency services, the importance of building relationships in real estate, and the significance of understanding client needs. The conversation covers the pros and cons of city life in Spain versus resort living in Spain, community fees, legal considerations for property alterations, and the impact of short-term rental regulations. The episode concludes with essential advice for...
2025-08-261h 09Spainfully HonestEpisode 8: Rural Property in SpainSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, hosts Paul and Catherine welcome Fiona from Murcia Villas to discuss buying rural property in Spain. They explore Fiona's journey to Spain, the importance of legal representation, key considerations for purchasing rural versus coastal properties, and the hidden costs associated with community fees and maintenance. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper licensing for rentals and the significance of having a will in place for property owners. Listeners gain valuable insights into navigating the Spanish real estate market and making informed decisions.Contact Fiona at fiona@murciavillas.com...
2025-08-191h 01Spainfully HonestEpisode 7: Property in SpainSummaryIn this episode, the hosts share their personal experiences with property in Spain, discussing the challenges and lessons learned from renting and buying. They emphasize the importance of being cautious, doing thorough research, and trusting one's instincts when navigating the property market. The conversation also touches on the differences between renting in urban areas versus coastal regions, the impact of seasonal living, and the necessity of good legal advice. Ultimately, they convey a love for living in Spain despite the hurdles faced in property transactions.TakeawaysDon't...
2025-08-1256 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 6: Private Education in SpainSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, hosts Paul and Catherine discuss the intricacies of private education in Spain with Rhiannon from King's College in Murcia. They talk about the importance of education for expatriate families, the integration of international students, and the various pathways to university. Rhiannon shares her personal journey in education, the technological advancements in the curriculum, and the school's holistic approach to student well-being. The conversation also touches on community involvement, extracurricular activities, and the costs associated with private schooling in Spain, providing valuable insights for families considering a move to the country.
2025-08-0532 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 5: A conversation about learning SpanishSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, hosts Paul and Catherine discuss the importance of learning Spanish for expats living in Spain. They share personal experiences, practical tips, and strategies for overcoming language barriers. The conversation emphasizes the value of community engagement, immersive learning, and the humor found in making mistakes while learning a new language. They also touch on the benefits of speaking Spanish in daily life and the positive impact it has on cultural integration.Chapters00:00Introduction to Podcast02:54The Importance of Language in Spain
2025-07-2951 minSpainfully HonestEpisode 4: Kids Special: Education in SpainSummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, hosts Catherine and Paul engage in a discussion with their children about their experiences growing up and being educated in Spain. They explore the differences between public and international schools, the challenges of learning the language, and the importance of maintaining a balance between English and Spanish. The conversation also touches on university choices, the Spanish education system, and practical advice for parents considering a move to Spain with their children.TakeawaysThe podcast aims to share honest experiences of living in Spain.Listener engagement...
2025-07-221h 04Spainfully HonestEpisode 3: Moving to Spain Part TwoIn episode 3, Catherine and Paul continue the conversation from the previous episode. They discuss what you need to think about when moving to Spain. As always, it is full of stories and laughs based on their experience of living in Spain for over twenty years!SummaryIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, Paul and Catherine discuss the realities of living in Spain, covering various aspects such as the rising cost of property, cultural differences, family dynamics, and the importance of community. They delve into the significance of language for integration, the challenges of raising children...
2025-07-151h 06Spainfully HonestEpisode 2: Moving to Spain Part OneIn this episode of Spainfully Honest, hosts Paul and Catherine discuss the essential considerations for moving to Spain, sharing personal experiences and insights on living in the country. They explore the importance of choosing the right location, adapting to the weather, and understanding the cost of living. The conversation also touches on cultural aspects, including the Spanish work ethic and lifestyle.TakeawaysMoving to Spain requires careful consideration of various factors.Personal experiences can greatly influence the decision to relocate.Choosing the right location is crucial for a fulfilling life in Spain.Weather...
2025-07-0844 min
Spainfully HonestEpisode 1: Welcome to Spainfully HonestIn our very first episode, hosts Paul and Catherine introduce themselves and share the story behind Spainfully Honest. Discover why they decided to move to Spain, what life has been like since moving to Spain, and what you can expect from this podcast. Join us as we have real conversations about living in Spain!
2025-07-0138 min
F1 in ReviewSpainfully PredictableFormula 1 returned to Spain with it and with what has been described as "the most predictable race in Formula 1" behind us, Tom, Tristan, Liv and Angus discuss the latest in F1 news and chat about why the race in Barcelona is so dull and what could be done instead.Within this episode we discuss: why testing in Barcelona makes the racing at the track predictable, whether or not Alpha Tauri is on an upwards trajectory, the rumours surrounding Toto Wolff's possible departure from Mercedes, and whether banning higher performance engine modes (party modes) during qualifying was...
2020-08-2155 min