An interview with Sara and her family
What does your family consist of?
Sara, 36, Daniel, 30, Juni, 11, Perla, 8, Björn, 8 months, and the dog Märta, 4.
During what period did you live in Nerja?
We moved to Nerja and lived there from August 28, 2023, to December 23, 2023.
Sara and the children
How easy was the decision that led to you moving to Nerja?
What made you choose Nerja as your temporary home?
We had friends living in Nerja, and they spoke very highly of the town. Additionally, we were able to rent accommodation from them on-site. We were looking for a place in the sun near the sea that wasn't too big and was family-friendly.
How did you prepare for the move, especially considering the children and the newborn?
We started by exploring the possibility for our older children to study abroad during the autumn term of 2023. We contacted their school and received all the help we needed to apply for a term abroad. We also contacted the City of Stockholm and the education board to ensure their schooling. For our newborn son, we had a vaccination and check-up plan that we discussed with the child health center. We also made sure our home and car in Stockholm were rented out during our stay in Nerja. Furthermore, we arranged the necessary vaccinations and passports for our dog Märta.
Adapting to Nerja
How were the first few weeks in Nerja for your family?
The first few weeks after we moved to Nerja were intense, especially for me, organizing the children's schooling. We needed to register as residents for the girls to attend school, which required some paperwork. Luckily, the autumn term started later in Spain than in Sweden, so I had some time to arrange everything. We managed to get spots at our desired school for both girls.
What were the biggest challenges in adapting to a new country and culture?
The language was the biggest challenge, especially when dealing with the school and authorities. However, most people spoke a little English, and Google Translate was a great help.
The children's schooling
How did your children adapt to school in Nerja?
They did fantastically. They made friends for life, and their language skills developed quickly as they needed to communicate in both English and Spanish.
What tips would you give to other parents considering moving to Nerja with school-aged children?
Don't stress; it will work out. The schools and authorities were accommodating, and the school in Nerja was very helpful in getting everything in place for the girls.
Family life and leisure activities
How did you spend your free time as a family in Nerja?
We spent a lot of time on the wonderful beaches and ate out at restaurants. There was always something to do in town, and everything was child-friendly. We also participated in local events like Halloween in Maro and visited the Nerja Caves.
Ready for Halloween in Maro - Maroween
How did the climate and environment in Nerja affect your daily life and well-being?
Very much. The sun and warmth made us feel fantastic and we didn't have to wear layers of clothes.
Social network and community
What was it like building a social network in Nerja?
Through the school, the gym, and padel, we quickly got to know locals and other Swedish families in the area.
In what ways did you participate in the local community or cultural events?
We participated in everything from local markets to celebrating Christmas in the plaza with the whole village.
Work and daily logistics
How did you and your boyfriend manage your professional commitments during your time in Nerja?
I was on parental leave, and Daniel took time off from his job as an electrician for the entire period.
Can you share any practical tips for managing daily logistics?
Hiring a car long-term made life much easier for us.
In what ways did moving to Nerja affect your family dynamics and lifestyle?
It became a lifelong memory and a true adventure for all of us.
Personal reflections and advice
What is your strongest memory from your time in Nerja?
The school environment for the girls, the days on the beach, and all the restaurant visits. The climate was fantastic.
What advice would you give to other families considering spending an extended period in Nerja?
Just go for it! It's a fantastic experience that will enrich all of you.