UK tourists in Spain issued 'complex' warning and told to expect 'midweek closures'

A British woman who now lives in Spain has shared the two things she wish she'd known before making the move. The hot European country tops the list of expat destinations for Brits given its short flight time, excellent weather and vibrant culture.

However, Stephanie Saint Remy has given advice to anyone who wants to make the move like she did. The YouTube creator lives in the Valencian community in Spain.

She said: "Bank holidays are not always on a Monday. In the UK they are always on a Monday, with the exception of Good Friday, but in general, it tends to be a Monday.

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"In Spain, it can be any day of the week, so the amount of times I’ve gone into a supermarket on a Wednesday only to find that it was closed, is incredible." Bank holidays change depending on whereabouts in Spain you are, she added. Stephanie said the best way to avoid confusion is to note down the monthly timetable at the supermarket as soon as it is available.

"I wish I had clocked that one sooner, it would have saved me," she added. Speaking of buying property out there, she said: "When I was home-hunting here in Spain my thoughts were that I was going to buy a holiday home, not to live in.

“I absolutely love my flat, however, there is one thing that I can’t stand. Living here these past four years, it has grown to really really irritate me."

While choosing a home, Stephanie prioritised a swimming pool over a view, eventually regretting her decision. She said: "I would have cut the swimming pool to have a view.

"If you’re thinking of moving to Spain and you're thinking of doing some property hunting, really think in advance of what you want that place to be and if it will evolve with you."