Schooling
There are many very good international schools, following the English curriculum, up to A level or International Baccalaureate - many of these have bus services all along the coast.

These are private fee-paying schools. The local Spanish state schools are also available to English children, and there is an excellent private Spanish school, which also has a bus service covering most of the Western Costa Del Sol.

There are waiting lists at many schools, so be sure to make early enquiries and put children's names down in good time.

Medical Services
There are a great number of general practitioners of virtually every European nationality (including English) and excellent hospitals, both State and private, together with a huge range of specialist clinics, and dental clinics, all of which either have English speaking staff or interpreters.

Excellent quality and easily available both through the National Health Service - either using Form Elll for short visits, by paying Social Security (equivalent to National Insurance) if working, or as an entitlement if a resident pensioner - or private medical services which can be covered by private health insurance

Cost of Living
In general the cost of living in Spain is much lower that of living in the UK. Some British imported foodstuffs may be more expensive when bought locally. A visit to Gibraltar has shops such as Safeways selling goods at the same price in UK.

Other goods such as alcohol, tobacco and petrol are considerably cheaper in Spain than UK, and even cheaper in Gibraltar.

Pensions
The State Pension payments can be received through your local Spanish bank, and as you are in Europe, you will be entitled to receive any increases to the pension.

Pets
There is no quarantine for animals coming to Spain from Europe, but there is a legal requirement for dogs to be microchipped and to be vaccinated each year against rabies.

Always check the current regulations with both your vet and travel agent in good time.

There are good vets of most European nationalities in all localities, as well as many kennel facilities.

Cultural Activities
There are numerous foreign resident associations and clubs along the coast , who offer their members classes, excursions and a lively social life. Music concerts to suit every taste are held at many locations, also flamenco and sevillana dance performances.

Many contemporary stars visit the coast and hold concerts mainly in Marbella and Malaga - famous stars are often to be seen shopping and relaxing in the old town of Marbella and in Puerto Banus.

Multi screen cinemas usually screen one of the latest films each week in English, and both going to the theatre, or participating in amateur dramatics is a popular pastime.

Classes
Everything from learning Spanish, painting, pottery, flower arranging, computer classes - it is never a problem to continue with a hobby or take up a new one.

Health Spas and Gyms
Whether you want to be pampered or keep fit, there are numerous leisure centres and hotels offering these services.

Many also offer sports facilities, and classes such as yoga and pilates.