What’s it really like to leave the Netherlands behind and start a new life in Spain? Jurrien Korkers from veritySpain shares his experience of moving to Alicante with his family, from finding the right home and overcoming language barriers to embracing the sunshine, slower pace of life and Spanish culture. Discover what he loves most about living in Spain, the challenges of expat life and his advice for anyone considering making the move, including how veritySpain helps buyers find their ideal home in Spain.
Where, when and why did you move abroad?
I’ve known Alicante since about 2024, and these days it’s home. I live here with my family, and every now and then I go back to the Netherlands, mostly for work.
We wanted more sunshine and a slower pace, and more time together as a family. Alicante gave us that. The weather is good, the beaches are close, and life here feels a lot calmer than it did back home.
What challenges did you face during the move?
Finding the right home was the biggest challenge. The language was the other one. I couldn’t always make myself understood, and I didn’t always know how things worked here.
It took some help and a fair bit of patience, but we found a home that suits our family. Little by little we got to know the area, and Spain started to feel normal to us.
What do you enjoy most about life in your new country?
The weather, for a start. But mostly the relaxed way of living and the time I get with my family. We go to the beach a lot, we eat outside, and we just enjoy being here.
It’s very different from our old routine in the Netherlands. Living in Spain gives us room to slow down, take in the Spanish culture and spend more time together.
What is the hardest part of expat life for you / your family?
For me it’s the trips back to the Netherlands. I still need to be there for work now and then, and when I’m away I miss Alicante.
Planning work around family life isn’t always easy. So when I’m back in Spain, I try to make the most of it.
What is your relationship like with locals and other expats?
I get on well with my neighbours. People here are welcoming, and we like having a chat, even if the language still gets in the way sometimes.
We’ve also met other expats in the area. It’s good to swap stories and tips with people who love living here as much as we do.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of making a similar move?
Take your time. Look at different areas before you buy a home in Spain, and pick a place that fits the way you want to live, especially if you’re moving with your family. Comparing areas and new-build projects properly before you decide is exactly what we help with at veritySpain.
Learn a little Spanish, too, and get to know the local culture. Don’t rush it. Enjoy finding your place, and make sure you’re happy with the choice before you commit.
