Torrevieja (Old Tower) has come a long way in recent years. Far from the sleepy fishing village it has been for centuries, Torrevieja has experienced one of the biggest booms of all the towns on Spains Southern Costa Del Sol. The main industry here is no longer the production of "white gold" (salt) that has characterized the town since Roman times, but is instead expats, tourists and the industries that spring up around them that helps keep Torrevieja flourishing.

Getting There

The nearest airport is El Altet, 35 km from Torrevieja, which connects to most of the major European cities. By rail, the closest main station is Alicante, also 35 km from Torrevieja.

Expats

Torrevieja is incredibly popular with English-speaking expats and at last count had more than 200 clubs and societies catering specifically to this group of residents. Although the large majority of expats in Torrevieja are retirees, it is also popular with young families. The World Heath Organisation has declared Torrevieja one of the healthiest places to live on the planet, thanks to its microclimate that is constantly refreshed by the sea breezes.

There are two international schools in Torrevieja, both operating under the English curriculum. The British Primary School (ph: +34 96 571 41 04) offers kindergarten-style school for the under-6s and the Mar Azul International School (www.marazulschool.com) will take care of your youngsters from primary right through to high school.

Getting Around

Torrevieja is serviced by public transport (cheap, clean and comfortable) but the services are infrequent and you will probably find things much easier to buy your own car eventually. That being said, the Alicante City Council have devoted around half a million Euros to a public transport system upgrade that includes Torrevieja. The plan is to extend the network and number of buses and trains and is due for launch in 2011.

Settling In

Enjoying Torrevieja is not difficult. The spectacular scenery and relaxed lifestyle are not even spoiled by the hordes of sunner tourists. It may be difficult for newcomers to become accustomed to the Spanish tradition of siesta though. Be warned that most shops are closed between 1pm and 5 pm (depending on their own hours) and it can be frustrating if you are used to getting things done in the early afternoon.

Property

Thanks to the global economic crisis (which has been felt especially keenly in Spain), houses are at rock bottom prices in Torrevieja. Even allowing for the extra you will pay as a foreigner (this is not policy, simply a real estate tactic), you can pick up a 5 bedroom, multi-storey villa home with a pool and all mod cons for slightly less than 250,000 Euro. Renting is also cheap, with a three bedroom apartment (most Spaniards live in apartments rather than houses) renting for around 600 Euro per month.