Spain has had a long and proud history of embracing those that have chosen to reside on its shores, beginning with the Phoenicians settling along the Mediterranean and developing trading ports like Cartagena - which today still survives on a maritime economy. The Romans followed, and then along came the Visigoths, Arabs, Jews and Gypsies, all of whom have contributed fundamentally to Spain´s cultural heritage. But this fiery mixture of blood and passion marks this Iberian race with several unique characteristics: The Iberians are used to acting as hosts - voluntarily or not - and the Spanish people continue to extend a warmth and hospitality to all.

The pleasant climate is undoubtedly one of the major factors inspiring the forever growing desire to buy properties in the warm southern regions. It was here that the British first settled and now English has become the second language of the country being taught in schools and adult education. Initially this was done to help tourism however now is considered vital for careers.

Despite Spain’s growing economy and membership of the EEC, it is still a relatively cheap place to live. Property prices have risen, however are still low compared to many European countries which just proves that Spain is still a safe place to buy and that people will continue to buy a Spanish property. A huge demand for homes in the sun has seen Britons’ spending on properties overseas increase by 45 per cent in four years. For the investor Spain is still top of the BTL investment charts and has much to offer incoming investors who invest wisely in the right locations.

Spain’s pleasant, healthy climate and wide selection of properties still remains the UK’s and Ireland’s number 1 destination. There are around 1.2 million foreign property owners in Spain, which makes it Europe’s most popular country for second homes. Choose from developed plots, farmhouses and village locations, through to villas, townhouses and new apartment developments. We all know that you can purchase an overseas property cheaper in other countries but without a history they are a risk.

But the best thing in Spain is not for sale, the quality of life in Spain has no price. The wealth is carried in the hearts of its welcoming people who celebrate life in a way unmatched by any other European country. Spain also has a very low cost of living with fresh fruit and vegetables a fraction of the cost you could pay elsewhere. After all, fish, fruit and vegetables play a major part in the diet of most southern Mediterranean’s. The Spanish people do have a higher survival rate than the average in other European countries.

Spain has a great climate, great people and gives a great quality of life which in turn gives great value for money; these are just some of the reasons why the Costa Blanca appeals to thousands every year. And with an abundance of cheap flights available from all over the UK is also why more than 30,000 Brits live in the province of Alicante: it has the highest concentration of Brits in all of Spain.