Lanzarote Relocation

After all those years of hard work, and raising a family… you’ve now decided the time is right for retiring to Lanzarote. All your dreams of living in the sun, and breathing fresher air are about to come to fruition. But is it all going to be plain sailing?

Why Lanzarote? Many retirees choose Lanzarote because of the springlike weather. They may have holidayed here for a number of years also, giving them warm fluffy feelings whenever they hear the Island mentioned. Perhaps they’ve just simply had enough of the UK, and fancy that relaxed atmosphere that the Island can offer.

Lanzarote has a huge amount to offer for many reasons. We’ve already mentioned the climate, but what about the well established expat community? Speaking Spanish here is a real benefit, but with such a large British and Irish contingent, you can actually muddle through while you take a few lessons. There are many translation services on the Island, and people happy to offer help and advice (yes, just like us).

Problems? Of course, a major worry of many people moving to Lanzarote is the lack of contact with friends and family from “back home”. But with Skype, and a decent airport – the world isn’t such a big place after all. As long as you try to avoid flying during the school holidays, there are often cheap flights to be snapped up. You’ll also find that family and friends will love to come and spend time in your new home.

Healthcare. Make sure that you place a priority on gaining proper health care for when you arrive. Your entitlement to healthcare won’t be a problem, as long as you have paid your dues. Speak to HM Revenue & Customs for advice. We cannot advise you on specifics, as every person’s situation is different. You may also wish to consider private health care for peace of mind, but do ensure you read your paperwork very carefully. Going for the cheapest deal might not be best in the case of emergency or longer term care.

There are no nursing homes here in Lanzarote, as the Spanish custom is to care for your families at home. But as long as you are well insured, you will enjoy the benefits of the highest standards of health care.

Transferring money to Lanzarote. The recent weak exchange rate has meant that your pound sterling is not worth as much in Euros as it was even a couple of years ago. So if you are considering transferring a lump sum over, then do be careful. As this article is being penned, the rate is €1.11 to £1.00 – compared to €1.42 when we arrived in 2006. – That’s an astonishing €0.31 difference – a lot of money when you are talking in larger sums of cash.

As long as you have thought the whole process through, and ensured that you are covered both medically and financially, then Lanzarote can offer you a fabulous place to spend your twilight years. We’ll see you soon!