Spain stands as a top choice for expats due to its year-round sunshine, low cost of living, slow pace of life, delicious cuisine and endless beaches.
Popular areas include Alicante, Girona, Barcelona, Madrid, and Málaga, where expats flock year after year.
Málaga, Andalucia, is a firm favourite among expats from Britain, the US and beyond. Combining rich history, exciting nightlife and a beautiful coastline, the European country is an expat paradise.
What's more, English is widely spoken, making it a no-brainer for those seeking an easy moving transition.
The summer heat in Málaga is 'not a joke'
GETTY IMAGESHowever, no place is perfect, and according to one expat, there are some unavoidable downsides to living in this part of Spain.
TikTok creator Dani revealed that although she "loves [Málaga] for the most part", there are some things she "doesn't like".
The expat (who goes by @danicasnelson) claimed that the summer heat is "not a joke".
She was warned by locals that temperatures can be scorching, and that she'd "want to get out of here" during the hottest months.
However, she underestimated how unbearable the heat could be. She said: "My partner calls the heat oppressive, and at first I thought he was dramatic, but I tend to agree with him at this point."
Of all the hottest places in Spain, most of them are located in southern Spain, in Andalucia. Seville, Cordoba, Málaga, and Almeria are all known for their high temperatures.
Enjoy Travel warned: "Temperatures here soar to a sizzling 36C, though record temperatures have exceeded 47C."
For Britons in Spain who are not used to the heat, it's important to practise sun safety.
The NHS has important guidance on how to cope in hot weather, including why heatwaves can be a problem, who is most at risk, tips for coping, and signs of heat-related illness. The advice is not country-specific and can be applied to parts of Spain.
Tips for coping in hot weather
- Keep out of the heat if you can, and stick to shaded areas if you have to go outside - particularly when the sun is strongest
- Wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes
- Avoid exercise or activities that make you hotter
- Cool down with cold food and drinks, while avoiding alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
- Have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes
- Keep your living space cool by close windows during the day and opening them at night when the temperature has gone down.
- Use electric fans if the temperature is below 35C
- Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
'My partner calls the heat oppressive'
GETTY IMAGES
Although Málaga can be extremely hot at times, there are many positives to living in the Spanish city. Dani praised its walkability, celebratory culture, language, and opportunities for day trips nearby.
GB News is speaking to expats in Europe and beyond about their chosen homes, including the biggest differences from the UK, best and worst things, and advice for fellow British expats.
One expat named the European country she "fell in love with", revealing that "people really prioritise their wellbeing".
Further afield, a British man named the expat "paradise" where people are "open and welcoming" - it's not just a rumour.
