## Leicester Couple Relocate to Spanish Sunshine: Life in Murcia ‘Like a Permanent Holiday’
A young couple originally from Leicester have swapped British drizzle for Spanish rays, claiming that life in the city of Murcia now feels like a “never-ending holiday.” For Jade Gartshore, 25, and her husband Edward Partis, also 25, the move to south-eastern Spain has transformed their lifestyles, with affordable living costs, balmy weather, and a vibrant social scene making their new home irresistible.
According to the couple, the transition began after months of travelling through Asia and Europe. During this extended journey, they spent five weeks in Murcia—where Jade’s parents had already settled for their retirement. The city’s laid‑back atmosphere, cultural activities, and Mediterranean climate quickly captured their imaginations.
Jade explained that, while she had achieved professional success working in an estate agency in the UK, her former life felt unfulfilling. “I used to sit at my desk every day and wonder if this was all life had to offer—going to work in the dark, coming home in the dark,” she recalled. For her, something essential was missing in the daily routine, despite the prospect of promotion and career advancement.
The pull of Spain became irresistible for the pair. She described their time abroad as pivotal: “The whole six months travelling, we were just working out how to get back to Spain. We both kept coming back to Murcia in our conversations. We completely fell in love with it.” Jade also noted that, even as a teenager, she had always felt the UK was not where she truly belonged—having previously attempted to settle in Australia and California before.
Settling in Murcia brought an array of positive changes. “It really feels like a permanent holiday,” Jade said with enthusiasm. She recounted the simple pleasures of their new lifestyle: from enjoying a €3.50 (£3) glass of wine at a local bar, to attending free open‑air concerts put on by the city council. The community events, held sprawled across seafront locations and covering genres from jazz to techno, have proven a particular highlight. Jade expressed appreciation for how local taxes are spent—making cultural enrichment accessible to all.
Though the lower price of alcohol stands out, Jade was keen to clarify that living costs in Spain can be comparable to those in the UK for essentials such as rent and groceries. “It’s mainly the wine and social events that are noticeably cheaper. Rent, utilities, and shopping can be similar—some areas are more expensive than the UK, others less so; it depends on your location,” she commented, countering the perception that moving abroad always means dramatically slashing costs.
Life in Murcia also has its culinary benefits. The city, often referred to as “the fruit basket of Spain,” is renowned for its large, flavourful produce. Jade says their diet hasn’t changed drastically, but the improved quality of fruit and vegetables is impossible to ignore. She added that local experiences, like touring farms for just €12, have helped her connect with the local community.
Fears of isolation in a new country proved unfounded. Jade revealed how Murcia’s culture of socialising extends far beyond weekend gatherings. “People here make plans every day, not just at weekends,” she observed. The move has boosted her social circle enormously; she now considers herself “100 per cent more sociable,” finding friends through local events, beach outings, and Spanish classes—aided by her engagement with a mostly-Spanish social media following.
Jade has now become something of an ambassador for expat life, inspiring others to take the leap. She documents her experiences online with the aim of demystifying the process, stating, “If I can do it, anyone can. Even if it’s just for travel—take the risk and follow what you want to do.”
Recent statistics support the couple’s decision, with data showing a sharp increase in the number of Britons relocating abroad—Spain remains a top destination. For Jade and Edward, there is no looking back: “I can’t see myself moving back to the UK again,” Jade concluded, embracing a sun-drenched chapter in Murcia for the foreseeable future.