• Why Everyone Falls in Love with Málaga
    2025/10/29

    Discover why Málaga has become one of Spain’s most beloved destinations for expats and investors alike.


    Vanessa sits down with local expert Carin, a rental and buyer specialist, to talk about what makes Málaga so magnetic — from its walkable, family-friendly neighborhoods to the challenges and joys of renovating property in the city.


    You'll learn:

    - What makes Málaga’s community so warm and magnetic

    - The best walkable and family-friendly neighborhoods

    - What to expect when renting or buying property

    - The realities of renovation — what it really takes

    - How Málaga compares to other Spanish cities


    If you’ve ever dreamed of living in southern Spain — or you’re curious what daily life really looks like behind the postcards — this conversation is for you.


    Ready to take the first step to rent or buy in Malaga? Contact Carin here: https://api.honeybadgernation.com/widget/form/f1lx6ykBehI04GdzfNFl


    About Solena Global Living


    Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live — and invest — with confidence.


    👉 Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving

    Or, visit https://www.solenagloballiving.com


    📋 Want to be matched with a trusted real estate expert abroad? Complete our Buyer Matching Questionnaire: https://form.jotform.com/VanessaRosenblum/buyer-matching-questionnaire


    Chapters


    00:00 The Allure of Málaga

    03:51 Exploring Neighborhoods and Living Options

    06:20 Rental Insights and Timing Strategies

    09:03 Understanding Property Prices

    11:37 Purchasing Property in Málaga

    14:23 Renovation Opportunities and Challenges

    17:57 Introduction to the Conversation

    18:07 Connecting with Local Real Estate Experts

    18:34 Guidance on Life in Spain



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    19 分
  • Life in Santander & Cantabria: Discover the Charm of Spain's Northern Coast
    2025/10/15

    What’s it really like to live in Cantabria, Spain? In this episode, we explore one of Spain’s most underrated regions — a lush, green corner of the north where life moves at a slower pace, communities are tight-knit, and the natural beauty is breathtaking.


    Our guest, Grace is a rental specialist and Property Finder and she shares insider insights into life in Santander and the surrounding region — from the region’s mix of sea and mountains, to its more traditional culture, lower cost of living, and welcoming small towns. We talk about who thrives here, what daily life looks like, and why Cantabria might be the perfect fit if you’re dreaming of a more peaceful, authentic experience abroad.


    Whether you’re drawn to surfing beaches, medieval villages, mountain trails, or a calmer lifestyle far from the tourist hotspots, this episode will help you decide if Cantabria is the right place for your Spanish adventure.


    📍 Interested in Cantabria? Contact Grace through Solena Global Living here: https://api.honeybadgernation.com/widget/form/i7Ljv5c7rFOmOkoNZtYB


    About Solena Global Living


    Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live — and invest — with confidence.


    👉 Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving

    Or, visit https://www.solenagloballiving.com


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Cantabria

    03:46 The Allure of a Slower Lifestyle

    06:12 Exploring Santander: A Port City with Rich History

    08:35 Safety and Community in Santander

    08:50 Navigating Life Without a Car

    12:38 Education in Cantabria: Schools and Integration

    16:48 Cultural Adaptation and Family Traditions

    19:37 Building Community in a New Place

    22:26 Housing Market Insights: Rentals and Purchases

    29:18 Introduction to the Conversation

    29:47 Guidance for Moving to Spain


    .

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    30 分
  • Where to live in Girona (Catalonia) Spain: Best neighborhoods, housing prices and more
    2025/10/08

    Thinking about moving to Girona, Spain? In this episode, we explore what it’s really like to live in Girona—from the city’s most desirable neighborhoods to lifestyle insights, housing options, and what makes this corner of Catalonia so special.


    Our guest, Gloria, is a local real estate expert who helps international buyers navigate Girona’s unique market. Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of the Barri Vell, the modern feel of Montjuïc, or the family-friendly neighborhoods just outside the city center, Gloria shares insider knowledge to help you choose the right area for your lifestyle.


    If you’re considering a move to Girona or want to learn more about buying property in Catalonia, contact Gloria through Solena Global Living:

    https://bit.ly/contact-gloria-m


    About Solena Global Living


    Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live—and invest—with confidence.

    Get in touch: ⁠https://linktr.ee/solenaliving

    Chapters00:00 Exploring Girona: A Hidden Gem

    02:15 The Real Estate Landscape in Girona

    05:29 Neighborhoods of Girona: Where to Live

    10:29 Pricing and Market Trends

    17:21 Navigating the Buying Process

    22:26 Common Pitfalls for Buyers

    24:01 Introduction to Selena Global Living Podcast

    24:01 Comprehensive Support for Relocation


    #movetospain #movetogirona #solenagloballiving #spainimmigrants #costabrava

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    25 分
  • Expat Life in Mexico: Visas, Cost of Living & Starting Fresh Abroad
    2025/10/01

    Thinking about moving abroad? In this episode, Erica Wright shares her real story of leaving the U.S. and building a new life in Mexico. She opens up about the decision to move, the challenges of navigating the visa process, cultural adjustments, and what daily life as an expat really looks like.

    We dive into practical topics like safety, cost of living, healthcare, and remote work — as well as the lifestyle changes and mindset shifts that come with living abroad.

    If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to start fresh in a new country, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence to take the next step.

    ✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    1. Why Erica decided to move abroad and why she chose Mexico
    2. Key factors to consider when choosing a new home overseas
    3. How to navigate the visa process with less stress
    4. The reality of safety concerns and how to address them
    5. Cost of living in Mexico vs. the U.S.
    6. Cultural adjustments and finding community
    7. What healthcare looks like for expats in Mexico
    8. Practical advice for anyone considering moving abroad


    Connect with Erica:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericadionnwright

    Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/EricaDionn

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thismightbeabadidea.podcast

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisMightBeABadIdeaYouTube/

    Podcast: https://youtube.com/@thismightbeabadideapodcast

    Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thismightbeabadidea.pod

    Website: www.thismightbeabadideapodcast.com

    Email: hello@thismightbeabadideapodcast.com

    About Solena Global Living

    Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live—and invest—with confidence.

    Get in touch: ⁠https://linktr.ee/solenaliving

    ⏱ Chapters:

    00:00 The Decision to Move Abroad

    03:06 Criteria for Choosing a New Home

    06:13 Addressing Safety Concerns

    08:04 Navigating Visa Processes

    11:40 Remote Work and Lifestyle Adjustments

    13:31 Cost of Living Comparison

    14:18 Cultural Adjustments and New Routines

    19:11 Trade-offs of Living Abroad

    20:15 Healthcare Insights in Mexico

    22:06 Food Quality and Health Benefits

    23:47 Advice for Those Hesitant to Move

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    28 分
  • Lagos, Algarve Explained: Vibe, Schools, Rentals, and Buying
    2025/09/17

    Thinking about Portugal—specifically the Algarve? In this episode, Vanessa sits down with a Lagos-based real estate agent to break down what life actually feels like in Lagos (walkable, small-city vibe, west-coast beaches + sunsets), who this area serves best (families, community-seekers), and the trade-offs (Lagos carries a premium €€€).

    We cover schools (Portuguese vs. international), rentals, when buying makes sense, how competitive the market is, and why representation in Portugal can be very different from your home country.


    You’ll learn:


    - Lagos lifestyle & vibe: compact, walkable, family-friendly, quick access to wild west-coast beaches.

    - Schools 101: immersion in Portuguese vs. international schools—how families decide.

    - Housing reality: typical rentals and why Lagos is among the Algarve’s pricier markets.

    - Buy smart: timing, expectation management, and how sight-unseen deals are handled.

    - Representation matters: how buyer’s agents work in Portugal.


    Get help moving to Portugal. Connect with Vanessa Lopes: https://bit.ly/contact-vanessa-lopes


    About Solena Global Living


    Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live—and invest—with confidence.


    Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving


    Chapters


    00:00 – Intro

    01:00 – What our guest does: concierge for foreign buyers

    03:50 – Why the Algarve (esp. Lagos): vibe, walkability, west-coast magic

    07:56 – Family life & community: kid-friendly spaces, beaches, after-school

    12:04 – Schools 101: Portuguese vs. international, language paths

    20:51 – Rentals & availability: what’s on the market now

    22:50 – Price context: new build vs. resale, sea views, Lagos premium

    25:54 – How competitive is it? Readiness, rent-first vs. buy-now

    27:39 – Buying sight-unseen & expectation management

    34:37 – Do you need a buyer’s agent in Portugal? Differences vs. UK/Germany

    37:15 – Pitfalls to avoid & how to mitigate risk

    39:16 – How to get help + next steps

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    40 分
  • Where to Live in Valencia Spain | Neighborhoods, Prices & Lifestyle Guide
    2025/09/03

    Thinking of moving to Valencia, Spain? Wondering which neighborhoods are the best fit for your lifestyle?In this episode of the Solena Global Living Podcast, I sit down with David, an American real estate professional turned Buyer Specialist (and rental specialist) in Valencia, to uncover what life is really like in Spain’s third-largest city - and how to find a home here.We cover:- The vibe and lifestyle of Valencia’s most popular neighborhoods- Rental prices and what you can expect for your budget- The pros and cons of living in different suburbs- How to decide which area is the best fit for YOU- Practical tips for navigating the Spanish rental market as a foreignerWhether you’re drawn to Valencia’s historic center, the beach lifestyle of Malvarrosa, or the family-friendly suburbs, this conversation will help you find your place in the city.Resources & Next Steps:👉 Contact David for Valencia rental support: https://bit.ly/contact-david-piccolo👉 Speak with a trusted international mortgage broker: https://bit.ly/solenagloballiving👉 Book an initial call with Vanessa: https://bit.ly/strategy-spain-15-callAbout Solena Global LivingSolena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live—and invest—with confidence.Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving


    00:00 Journey to Valencia: A New Beginning

    01:12 Starting a new life in Valencia, Spain

    02:12 Real Estate in Spain vs. the U.S.

    04:17 Understanding Valencia's Rental Market

    06:29 Exploring Valencia's Neighborhoods

    09:43 Living in Valencia: City vs. Suburbs

    13:03 Rental Pricing and Market Trends

    17:27 Family Homes and International Schools

    19:32 Cultural Differences in Living Spaces

    22:08 Fireworks and Festivals in Valencia

    27:14 Advice for Moving to Valencia

    31:51 How Solena Global Living Helps You Find Your Place


    Abroad#MovingToSpain #ValenciaSpain #InternationalRealEstate #SolenaGlobalLiving

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    33 分
  • Living in Murcia, Spain: Food, Culture & Everyday Life With Food Vlogger, Maggie Dickmann
    2025/08/27

    What’s life really like in Murcia, Spain? In this episode, I sit down with an American and food vlogger living in Murcia, Maggie Dickmann. We explore the culture, food, and lifestyle that make Murcia one of Spain’s best-kept secrets. From mouthwatering tapas to the region’s relaxed pace of life, Maggie shares why she fell in love with Murcia — and why more people moving to Spain should consider it, too.


    Check out Maggie's Instagram page:

    Zodiac post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DMAzEZLtflj/?img_index=1

    Tabla de Sopaica: https://www.instagram.com/p/DMAzEZLtflj/?img_index=1


    Join a future Spain Scouting Trip with Vanessa. Learn more: https://www.solenaliving.com/scout-spain


    About Solena Global Living

    Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live—and invest—with confidence.

    Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Murcia and Its Allure

    02:28 First Impressions of Murcia

    04:50 Exploring Murcia's Unique Food Culture

    09:38 Daily Life in Murcia vs. the US

    11:46 Local Food Traditions and Festivals

    14:34 Eating Habits: Spain vs. the US

    17:46 The Journey of Blogging About Murcia

    22:39 Why Choose Murcia as Your Next Home?

    24:43 Connect with Solena Global Living

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    26 分
  • Your Spanish Visa Pathways Explained
    2025/08/20

    Thinking about moving to Spain? Before you can find your dream home, you first need the right residency pathway. In this episode of the Solena Global Living Podcast, I sit down with immigration attorney Maryem Essadek, my go-to expert on Spanish visas and residency.We break down the most common visa options for Spain—including the Digital Nomad Visa, Non-Lucrative Visa, and Golden Visa—and highlight red flags and roadblocks that applicants often face. Mariam shares her insider advice on how to avoid common mistakes, what documents you’ll need, and how to set yourself up for a smooth transition abroad.If Spain is on your radar, this episode will help you understand where to begin—and why your very first step should be securing the right visa before diving into your property search.🔗 Book a consultation with Maryem here (affiliate link) https://bit.ly/spain-visa-consult🔗 Explore relocation resources and property tours with Solena Global Living https://bit.ly/rent-costa-bravaAbout Solena Global LivingSolena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live—and invest—with confidence.Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenalivingChapters:00:00 Introduction to Immigration Law and Moving to Spain01:33 Understanding Visa Options for Moving to Spain04:54 Exploring the Non-Lucrativa Visa Requirements08:51 Digital Nomad Visa: Requirements and Process12:51 The Impact of the Golden Visa Cancellation16:42 Settling in Spain: Next Steps After Arrival20:07 Final Thoughts on Immigration and Legal Support

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    25 分