Esme Fox latest advice articles

A guide to Spain’s social security system

How Spain's social security works for employees, the self-employed and digital nomads: registering, contributions, and the benefits - healthcare, pensions, sick and parental pay.

September 30, 2025

Feature image: Expats exploring a church in Barcelona, Spain..jpg

Sep 9, 2025

Advice from a British expat in Barcelona

British expat journalist Esme Fox shares first-hand advice on living in Spain. From making friends and joining expat groups to learning Spanish, dating, working, and managing costs, her guide offers practical tips for navigating expat life with confidence.

Jul 9, 2026

Healthcare in Spain

How healthcare works in Spain: who can access the public system, the convenio especial and S1 routes, private cover and costs, and what to do in an emergency.

Apr 2, 2024

Finding a job in Spain

How to find work in Spain as a foreigner: the right-to-work rules and visas, in-demand sectors, the best job sites, networking, teaching jobs and city-by-city tips.

Jun 26, 2023

Maintaining your home in Spain

Our step-by-step guide will cover everything you need to know about maintaining your home in Spain.

Main Image What region in France is right for me. Beautiful street in Villes-sur-Auzon, Provence, France..jpg

Aug 2, 2025

Which region in France is right for me?

Struggling to choose where to live in France? Explore all 13 regions, from sun‑drenched Provence and alpine Auvergne to historic Normandy and island life in Corsica. Discover each area’s lifestyle, highlights, and personality to find the perfect match for your dream home, whether you’re retiring, relocating, or buying a second property.