Ah Spain!

Moving into a Spanish home can be full of surprises for newcomers. In this episode, we explore the unique features of Spanish houses that often catch expats off guard. From solid concrete and stone construction designed for durability and climate control, to the surprising lack of central heating or air conditioning in many homes, we dig into how Spanish architecture reflects the local environment.

We al...

In this episode of Ah, Spain: Poco a Poco, we explore one of Spain’s most exciting cultural and commercial traditions: Rebajas, the official Spanish sales seasons that happen every winter and summer. From the history of Rebajas in Spain to what’s typically on sale — including fashion, electronics, home goods, and more — we cover everything you need to know about these popular Spanish shopping events.

Discover how Spanish retailers ...

Summer in Valencia is a fiesta on repeat—and we are right in the thick of it. The Gran Fira de Julio turns the city into a full-blown celebration in Turia Gardens—and fireworks every Saturday night because, let’s be honest, what’s Valencia without fireworks? By day and night many are cooling off with friends at the beach or a pool, or simply enjoying marathon siestas. Suburban families know how to dodge the heat by zooming off to w...

Today your two friendly expats, Tania and Gaetano, dig into the glorious, saffron-hued world of paella! Spain’s most famous rice dish and the source of more food debates than you’d expect from a country known for siestas and fiestas.We chat about the Valencian origins of paella, the many types you'll find from coast to countryside (seafood, rabbit, and even snails), and why every Spaniard swears their version is the o...

So, you've just arrived in Spain—welcome! Now comes the big question: where do you actually get the stuff you need to live? In this episode, we’re talking beds, coffee makers, towels, and all the random things you suddenly realize you don’t have.

We’ll guide you through the typical options for setting up your life here, from department stores to big box retailers. Need tools or home improvement supplies?...

In this episode, we explore one of Spain’s most magical nights — La Noche de San Juan — as celebrated in the vibrant coastal city of Valencia. Coinciding with the summer solstice, this iconic festival marks the arrival of summer with fire, water, and centuries-old traditions deeply rooted in Spanish culture.

Whether you're an expat living in Spain, planning a visit, or just curious about Valencia travel ...

Today we take you through the real process of preparing our kids for the big move to Spain, and easing the transition once we arrived! From discussing the decision with them and calming their nerves to making sure they were excited about starting life in a new country, we share how we got everyone on board for this family adventure.

Did we visit first? How did we get our friends,  extended family, and ev...

Flamenco takes center stage in today’s episode. Learn about the origins of flamenco in Andalusia, shaped by Romani, Moorish, Jewish, and Andalusian influences, and how it developed into a deeply expressive art form. A symbol of Spanish identity, flamenco is more than music—it's raw emotion, rhythm, and resistance. We unpack the history, passion, and cultural fusion behind cante (song), toque (guitar), and baile (dance...

In this candid episode we explore the real-life surprises and lessons we've learned since making the move to Spain. From our feline companions (old and new) adjusting to a new life abroad to our own struggles with picking up the language (spoiler: it’s harder than we thought), we’re sharing the things we wish someone had told us before we packed our bags.

We talk about the subtle art of distinguishing yo...

In this Poco A Poco episode, we’re talking about Valencia’s Turia Garden—once an unpredictable, wandering riverbed, now a lush 9-kilometer park that snakes through the heart of the city. Along the way, you’ll pass playgrounds, bike paths, shady palms, the City of Arts and Sciences, the Palau de la Música, and even a giant Gulliver you can climb on. Discover how a devastating flood led to a bold transformation, and why locals still ...

Today we discuss one of the most asked questions for expats and locals alike: Is it better to live in the city of Valencia or in a nearby mountain town like Náquera? Join Gaetano, who lives with his family in the heart of Valencia, and Tania, raising her family in the tranquil mountain town of Náquera, as they compare two very different versions of life in Spain.

From the convenience of city living—walkable neighborhoods, schools, ...

We dive into the bold, flavorful world of Spanish beverages. From the daily rituals of Spanish coffee culture to the party-ready cocktails that define summer in Spain, this episode is a fun, honest, and slightly boozy tour through how Spain really does drinks. We explore the fiery and popular Valencian cremaet, compare café solo, cortado, and other local coffee favorites, and unpack the difference between Tinto de Ver...

Lucky episode #13! We dive headfirst into our most memorable pitfalls that we experienced as expats in Valencia, Spain. We share our personal stories of navigating unexpected challenges—from missing trains and dealing with flooded apartments to getting lost down the city’s enchanting labyrinth of streets.

Join us as we share stories of how funny setbacks and a dash of resilience have turned these hurdles...

Join us, Tania and Gaetano, as we share the everyday joys of expat life in Spain, especially in sunny Valencia. From friendly restaurant owners to free gift wrapping in stores, we explore why Spain’s warm culture feels like living on Sesame Street.

Hear about birthday party etiquette, beautiful neighborhoods, beach life, and why locals always greet you with a smile. Whether you're dreaming of moving to S...

In this episode of Ah, Spain!, We explore how to get around Valencia using public transport, if you are like Gaetano, or if you are brave, like Tania, you have your own car! Whether you're an expat moving to Spain, a digital nomad settling into life in Valencia, or a traveler looking for smart ways to explore the city, this episode has you covered. Expect practical tips, funny stories, and a casual, friendly conversat...