Spanish Practices – Living in Spain: Real Life, Real Spain

"A Brief, Sticky History of Spain's Sweet Tooth" ExPat Life in Spain

A sweet, sticky, and slightly ridiculous history of Spanish desserts—featuring Romans, Moors, nuns, churros, and the iconic piononos of Granada. Like, follow and comment - it really helps this Podcast.

Can you REALLY just park up and live in Spain in a motorhome? 🚐☀️

It sounds like the ultimate loophole… no rent, no paperwork, just sunshine and sea views. But is van life in Spain actually legal—or are you one knock from the Guardia Civil away from a fine? In this episode of Spanish Practices, I dive into the booming world of motorhome living across Spain. From Costa beach dreams to car park reality, we uncover the truth about parking vs camping laws, post-Brexit residency rules, and whether this is the cheapest way to live in Spain… or a risky myth. If you've ever thought about escaping to Spain, living off-grid, or dodging rising rents—this episode is for you.

In Praise of Mercadona (…and that Jingle You Can't Escape) ExPat life in Spain

Ever wondered why Mercadona is often called one of the most profitable supermarkets in the world? In this light-hearted episode of Spanish Practices, we explore its fascinating history—from a humble family butcher's shop in Valencia to a retail powerhouse across Spain. We dive into how Mercadona has reinvented the supermarket experience with energy-efficient stores, hot takeaway food, and even places to sit and eat. Plus, we uncover the story behind the famously catchy Mercadona jingle (sí, that one stuck in your head) and the voice behind it. Expect humour, insights into Spanish shopping culture, and plenty of relatable moments if you've ever gone in for milk and come out with a full basket. Perfect for expats, Spain lovers, and anyone curious about everyday life in Spain. The Mercadona Jingle, composed by Lluís Miquel Campos, vocalist Mamen García, reproduced under UK Fair Dealing Law 1988 Sections 29/30

"Easter: Sackcloth vs Chocolate" ExPat life in Spain

Why does Easter in Spain feel like a powerful historical drama, while in the UK it's closer to a chocolate-fuelled long weekend? In this episode of Spanish Practices, we compare the deeply traditional Semana Santa celebrations of Spain — with solemn processions, penitents, and powerful depictions of the crucifixion — against the more light-hearted British Easter of chocolate eggs, hot cross buns, roast lamb, and a Bank Holiday Monday. Exploring culture, religion, food, and tradition, this episode highlights the fascinating contrast between Spanish Holy Week and British Easter customs, while uncovering what both countries share at their core. Perfect for anyone living in Spain, moving to Spain, or simply curious about cultural differences between Spain and the UK. Please like, follow and leave a review - it really helps this Podcast.

Spain Is a Doughnut: Empty Spain, Rural Exodus & Why Everyone Lives on the Coast

Why does Spain look like a doughnut on the map? In this episode of Spanish Practices, we take a slightly sarcastic (and surprisingly informative) deep dive into "Empty Spain" (España vaciada) — the vast, sparsely populated interior where villages are disappearing, schools are closing, and the local bar might be the only sign of life. Meanwhile, the coasts and major cities are bursting at the seams. So what happened? We explore: * Why most of Spain's population lives along the coast and in major cities * The great rural exodus and the decline of inland villages * The long-term impact of the Francisco Franco era on economic development * Why regions like Andalusia became agricultural powerhouses while the north industrialised * The reality behind "España vaciada" and what it means today * And whether cheap houses, fibre optic broadband, and a bit of imagination could bring people back to rural Spain From empty plains to overcrowded costas, this episode explains how Spain became one of Europe's most unevenly populated countries — and why the middle is, quite literally, missing. If you've ever driven through inland Spain and wondered where everyone went… this one's for you. Subscribe for more witty, honest takes on life in Spain, culture, and the realities behind the postcard. 🇪🇸🍩 Madame Hoochie is played by Chris Lowrie and is currently appearing at his Majesty's Pleasure Basildon.