Customer Reviews

Living Abroad in Spain

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

In general, this is a useful introduction to the issues an expatriate will face when moving to Spain. As an American citizen who is considering making the move, I also like that the book is written by an American (most English-language books on moving to Spain are written by--and largely for--UK citizens, who have it much easier than Americans with regard to residency and work permits).

However, I find it frustrating that Weinstein completely ignores the major catch-22 that bars most non-EU citizens from legal employment in Spain: most Spanish employers will not hire without an existing work permit, but it's extremely difficult to get a work permit without having a standing job offer. Even Google, an American company that has a branch in Madrid, will not consider applicants who do not already have EU working papers in hand. Weinstein does not say how she got around this problem; does not say how any other non-EU citizens have gotten around this problem; does not give any pointers on where to find companies that might be willing to sponsor Americans for a visa; in fact, does not mention this issue at all.

Had I known of this glaring, hugely important omission, I would not have bought the book. Now you know. If what you want is general information about the logistics of life in Spain, this book is great. But if you're a non-EU citizen who is looking for guidance in circumventing the major catch-22 of employment in Spain, look elsewhere.

I just decided to look into moving to Spain and being green behind the ears this was the perfect book for my stage of research. Some "living in spain" books might be more detailed or specific, but Weinstein's book was written as if the author and I were sitting across the table at a Starbucks. She gave a general introduction to the highlights of not only history and culture but of the region and what locations will fit "me". A very easy and motivating read. If your still wondering if you want to make the move or where to go, this is your book.

Nicely written book. Some info may not be very useful, especially if you have been to Spain. Genreally, a pleasant reading and good organization. Will give you some idea on what living in Spain is like. You are better off if you know someone in Spain or have relatives.

how do you write a book about life in Spain without ANY mention of SOCCER or SANGRIA?
This book is full of useless information (addresses/phone numbers, etc) that anyone monkey with the Internet can now access easily. There are no passages about nightlife in spain or stories of mingling with the people at bar or nightclub... Spain is the 2010 World Cup champs and PASSIONATE about soccer (futbol), yet this lady makes no effort to even pretend to know any thing about the sports scene, which is surely immensely popular with the locals (and appealing to most Americans). Great looking cover. clean pages. but dull, drab, boring writing ... so much so that i couldn't even get thru it on a long boring airplane ride and opted for the free magazine selection instead.

Very happy with the level of detail. For those who want a photo album, try Lonely Planet, but for those who need something that addresses the nitty-gritty of living in Spain, this is the guide for you.

The book is well written, but if you have a family, this book is not for you. The information regarding children and education is very sparse.