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Property Demand Increasing
Latest figures released by a leading Spanish property portal estimate that demand for property has increased by 145% over this time last year. This is partly due to the very many bargains that are now to be found, and partly due to the current economic crisis lessening throughout Europe.
In particular the Scandanavian countries are showing a lot of interest in second homes in Spain, primarily due to the crippling taxes that many of them face.
European League Tables
HSBC results show nearly one-third of expats living in Spain admit they have less disposable income than in their home country.
"In this report, Spain hasn't done well because the economy has deteriorated. But the type of expats living here is a factor.
Retirement plays a role
Unlike the majority of countries where finance is a top occupation amongst expats, almost 40 percent of expats in Spain are retired and almost half are aged 55 or older.
This demographic plays a role in Spain’s bottom listing in these economically related results. Despite concerns about Spain's deteriorating economic climate, 83 percent of those who noted the worsening economic climate say they will not be looking to head home.
Money is not always the answer. Career opportunity upon return, importance of host location, the element of choosing, cultural distance, political instability, schooling for children… Packages vary considerably, and companies have to be careful on what they offer.
Results also show expats in Spain are more likely to have a swimming pool and own nicer or larger property – placing Spain at No. 13 in Luxury rankings, the highest Luxury ranking in Europe.
"There is a tradeoff between lifestyle, family and finance and there are different motivators for going to different countries. It's all about balancing out different things.
The Swedish actor Dolph Lundgren has been officially appointed as Ambassador for Marbella by the Town hall on Tuesday. The actor who is best known for his role as Russian Boxer Ivan Drago in the Hollywood Blockbuster “Rocky IV” is one of the best known high profile residents of Marbella.
Dolph Lundgren said that “Marbella is a very special place for my family. It’s a marvellous city where we can enjoy life to the full”. The actor also praised the “warmth and hospitality of the people who know how to enjoy life”.
The Mayor of Marbella, Angeles Muñoz, stated that it was “an authentic privilege to have neighbours as distinguished as Dolph [Lundgren], who could choose any place to live and has decided to be with us”.
The actor is currently in talks with producers for the new film “Conan”. Lundgren told this to MTV while out promoting his latest film “Command Performance”. Lundgren explained that casting was still underway, and a final decision wouldn’t be made until sometime in 2010.
UK Universities Leave Thousands Without a Place
Over-subscribed universities in the UK are set to result in 225,000 applicants being turned away, many students are looking abroad for higher education. Over 660,000 people applied to UK universities this year, compared with around 590,000 last year.
With British university places capped and heavy fines threatening academia that over recruit, the increasing numbers of student hopefuls looking abroad for higher education opportunities is welcomed by Marbella University. The institution is a private English-speaking university located in southern Spain.
Dr. Eduard Schellhammer, President of Marbella University, says, “In recent weeks we have experienced a considerable surge in applications. We welcome recent developments that promise to bring together students from a diverse set of cultural backgrounds and nationalities.”
Adding that studying abroad has long had its followers, he adds that 2010 is set to break records: “All our courses are taught in English. Candidates are given the opportunity to absorb a new language as well as Iberian culture, to embrace international work opportunities and enjoy the enhanced lifestyle Marbella has to offer.”
The UK University and College Union warned of a ‘lost generation’ elbowed aside in the rush for places. Sally Hunt, general secretary of the University and College Union (UCU) says: “It is disgraceful that thousands of applicants will be denied the chance to fulfill their potential at a UK university.”
