Amanda Surringer, a 42-year-old mother living in Wales, had a taste of her dream life in Spain when she lived there for two years with her older two children. She described her time in Spain as idyllic, with a more relaxed and laid-back lifestyle that allowed her children to have a proper childhood away from the pressures of modern society. However, upon returning to the UK, she found herself struggling to adjust to the high-pressure lifestyle and yearning to escape the rat race once again.
Life in Spain vs. Life in the UK
In Spain, Amanda found a sense of peace and balance that she had been missing in the UK. The slower pace of life and emphasis on family and community made a significant impact on her and her children. She noticed that children in Spain spent more time outdoors, playing and socializing, rather than being glued to their mobile phones and technology like so many children in the UK are. This allowed her children to have a more enriching and fulfilling childhood experience.
One of the key differences Amanda noticed between life in Spain and the UK was the attitude towards time. In Spain, people were more relaxed and understanding when it came to punctuality, whereas in the UK, there was a constant rush and pressure to always be on time. This shift in mindset took some time for Amanda to adjust to, but she soon found herself embracing the more leisurely pace of life in Spain.
Challenges and Rewards of Living in Spain
While living in Spain, Amanda faced some challenges, such as her children not speaking Spanish initially. However, they quickly adapted and picked up the language, making amazing friends and thriving in their new environment. Amanda also had to adjust to a different way of life, where things closed early, and there was a greater emphasis on family time and relaxation.
Despite these challenges, the rewards of living in Spain far outweighed the difficulties. Amanda and her children enjoyed fresh and delicious food, a healthier lifestyle, and a strong sense of community. They had the opportunity to explore different parts of Spain, build treehouses, play in rivers, and truly experience a childhood that was free from the pressures of modern society.
Returning to the UK and Longing for Spain
After two years in Spain, Amanda and her children returned to Wales, where she met a new partner. While she acknowledges that her older children have excelled in school since returning to the UK, she can’t help but long for the simplicity and beauty of life in Spain. The stress and pressure of the high-pressure lifestyle in the UK have taken a toll on her, and she dreams of escaping the rat race and returning to Spain.
Amanda misses everything about Spain – the relaxed and family-oriented culture, the fresh and healthy food, and the sense of community that she found there. She feels that the Spanish way of life, with its emphasis on taking breaks and enjoying quality time with loved ones, is far superior to the constant hustle and bustle of life in the UK.
In conclusion, Amanda Surringer’s experience highlights the stark differences between life in Spain and the UK. While the UK may offer certain advantages, such as educational opportunities and career prospects, the quality of life and sense of peace and balance that Amanda found in Spain are invaluable. As she continues to navigate the challenges of living in the UK, Amanda holds onto the hope of one day returning to Spain and recapturing the magic and beauty of her dream life.