This is one of the most popular regions of Spain with expats, and is particularly attractive to those who want to avoid the more tourist-y parts of the Costa del Sol and the like, and instead experience a traditional Spanish way of life. Aside from a major coastal development on La Manga, Murcia remains a traditional Spanish region – which also means that properties and the cost of living here is less than it is on the neighbouring Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol, and the beaches are less crowded! The traditions here are characterised by the region’s history of commerce and agriculture, drawing from its Iberian, Phoenician, Greek and Moorish original settlers.

 

This traditional way of life does mean however that it’s very important to have some Spanish language skills before moving to the area – or at least an intention to get started on learning this as soon as humanly possible! You will find that Castillan Spanish is the most widely spoken dialect in the area. Traditions here include many fiestas, such as the Bando de La Huerta and the Entierro de la Sardina – both of these take place around the Easter holidays as part of the ‘Spring Festival’ and are popular across the regions.