If you’re dreaming of sunny skies, a laid-back lifestyle, and a fresh start, this video is an absolute must-see! In “Podcast 10 – REAL LIFE STORIES!”, from the Upsticks to Spain YouTube channel, we dive into the inspiring journey of Stu, Joanne, and their furry companion, Waffles.
Hosted by the ever-engaging Chris Goodacre, this episode skips the boring paperwork talk and goes straight to the heart of their experience—what it’s really like to leave the UK behind and start a new life in Spain.
For Stu and Joanne, the decision to move wasn’t made lightly. They had plenty of reasons to make the leap, from escaping the gloomy UK winters to embracing a better lifestyle with great weather and a vibrant culture. One of the biggest motivators was Spain’s affordability, which allowed them to take early retirement—something that felt impossible in the UK. This wasn’t a last-minute decision, though; it was the result of five or six years of careful planning. They saved up, researched extensively, and even bought a property ahead of time. They chose a friendly expat community where English is commonly spoken but close enough to enjoy Spanish culture too.
Their planning was meticulous. They spent time exploring different areas of Spain, taking discovery trips to familiarise themselves with their future home. They carefully reviewed all property documents to ensure everything was in order before making a commitment. Timing was crucial, as Brexit pushed them to act quickly and finalise their house purchase before any major changes took effect. They even went as far as doing a practice grocery shop to get a realistic idea of the cost of living. While they were excited to make the move, saying goodbye to friends and family was an emotional hurdle they had to overcome.
When it came to the visa process, Stu and Joanne described it as both exciting and nerve-wracking. They pre-booked pet transport with a company they trusted (a big shoutout to Bobby!) and were over the moon when their visa was approved in just 13 days—a stroke of good fortune that sped things along. Once in Spain, they got to work registering their visa, obtaining their padron (a local residency certificate), exchanging their UK driving licences for Spanish ones, and sorting out a medical certificate. Throughout this journey, the support of the Upsticks team, especially Julie, made navigating official appointments so much easier.
Now settled in Spain, Stu and Joanne feel incredibly lucky to call it home. They’ve embraced their new life, exploring the local region, enjoying the incredible Spanish cuisine, and taking up new hobbies. While the move came with its challenges, they both agree that it has been more than worth it. Their story is a reminder that with careful planning and a positive mindset, you can turn your dream of living abroad into a reality.
You can catch their full story on Spotify or watch the video on YouTube. If you’ve ever wondered whether a non-lucrative visa might be your ticket to a sunnier life, this podcast could be just the inspiration you need.