Brits who have moved to Spain are the happiest expatriates (expats), according to a new survey. The research, carried out by Lloyds TSB International and published by The Telegraph, revealed that 75.9 per cent of those questioned said they were happier living in Spain than they had been in the UK.
Overall, 68% of those asked said that they felt happier where they were than in the UK, although for certain countries this figure was much higher. Spain ranked number one for expat happiness, with over three quarters, 75.9%, of Brits living there saying they are happier than back at home. Germany also rates highly on the happiness scale with 71% saying they are happier than in the UK.
‘Much has been made of the gloomy economic outlook in Spain and the government’s austerity programme, but despite this stream of bad news, British expats think their financial prospects are better there than in the UK. But more importantly, it seems a good quality of life, perhaps including the sunny weather and the laidback Mediterranean lifestyle, are contributing to Spain’s place as number one for general happiness,’ said Nicholas Boys Smith of Lloyds TSB International.
John Kramer, an expat living in Andalucia, told the news provider Spain offers an “outdoor lifestyle, traditional family values and positive outlook on life”.
Those considering purchasing a property in Spain with the intention of moving to the nation may be encouraged by the findings of this study.
A Place in the Sun magazine recently revealed the country remains the top choice for Brits looking to buy real estate overseas.
The publication quizzed visitors at two of its live exhibitions and found Spain was a more popular option than other favourites such as France, Portugal, Italy and the USA.
