0:00:02 > 0:00:03This major European city was once
0:00:03 > 0:00:06held by an English cavalry detachment for over a year.
0:00:06 > 0:00:09Curious? Find out where I am in just a moment.
0:00:29 > 0:00:34On today's show, we are helping a recently married couple begin their next chapter in a new country.
0:00:34 > 0:00:38- This is huge!- Yeah.- I can see us in this kitchen.
0:00:38 > 0:00:42- And the plot is full of surprises. - Oh!
0:00:42 > 0:00:45- I would like you to face this way. - Gee!
0:00:45 > 0:00:48Welcome to Escape To The Continent.
0:00:48 > 0:00:50I'm in Valencia, which is
0:00:50 > 0:00:54both a city and a region on the Spanish Mediterranean coast.
0:00:54 > 0:00:55Now, in the early 18th century,
0:00:55 > 0:00:59Spain was left without a king or an heir and the French,
0:00:59 > 0:01:02not wanting to waste an opportunity to expand their empire,
0:01:02 > 0:01:04crossed the border.
0:01:04 > 0:01:07Unsurprisingly, the English did not like this one jot, so they joined
0:01:07 > 0:01:12forces with the Austrians and by 1706, had gained power of this city.
0:01:12 > 0:01:15It was to be short-lived, though, because 16 months later,
0:01:15 > 0:01:16the English were back home.
0:01:16 > 0:01:21That was three centuries ago, now it is the 2,500 hours
0:01:21 > 0:01:25of sunshine every year that draws us to this striking region.
0:01:26 > 0:01:29The Valencia region of Spain dominates the stretch
0:01:29 > 0:01:33of the Eastern Iberian coastline, covering an area larger than Wales.
0:01:33 > 0:01:35Founded by the Romans,
0:01:35 > 0:01:38the regional capital is Spain's third-largest city.
0:01:39 > 0:01:42At its centre, is the Plaza de la Virgen
0:01:42 > 0:01:44and the largely Gothic cathedral.
0:01:44 > 0:01:46In this recently revitalized city,
0:01:46 > 0:01:49centuries old architecture sits alongside more modern
0:01:49 > 0:01:54constructions, such as the City Of Arts And Sciences complex.
0:01:54 > 0:01:58Inland, the Valencia region is one of Europe's most fertile,
0:01:58 > 0:02:02with orange and apple trees and rice fields in abundance.
0:02:02 > 0:02:07Spain's famous rice-based dish paella originates in these parts.
0:02:07 > 0:02:11Heading west, the agricultural plains eventually give way to a more
0:02:11 > 0:02:14mountainous landscape, offering a rich righty of scenery,
0:02:14 > 0:02:19and with average property prices four times cheaper than in the UK,
0:02:19 > 0:02:24there's plenty on offer for those seeking a new life in this in this vibrant region of Spain.
0:02:26 > 0:02:29So what is it about Valencia apart from the bargain property
0:02:29 > 0:02:33prices and the glorious sunshine that has attracted our buyers?
0:02:33 > 0:02:35Let's meet them to find out.
0:02:36 > 0:02:38Ken and Paula live in Hampshire
0:02:38 > 0:02:41and run an online home business network.
0:02:41 > 0:02:44They've been together for seven years and married recently.
0:02:44 > 0:02:46And it was their honeymoon in Italy that finally convinced them
0:02:46 > 0:02:50to seek new horizons away from the UK.
0:02:50 > 0:02:53The whole idea of moving abroad probably started with Paula and I
0:02:53 > 0:02:55a couple of years ago.
0:02:55 > 0:02:58About the same time as we started our own business,
0:02:58 > 0:03:00we thought it would be nice to take
0:03:00 > 0:03:04the opportunity of its flexibility just to work somewhere that
0:03:04 > 0:03:09was a little more socially to our preferences.
0:03:09 > 0:03:11But it won't be the first time that either one of them
0:03:11 > 0:03:13has jumped continents.
0:03:13 > 0:03:16I came from South Africa about 20 years ago.
0:03:16 > 0:03:17Ken is from Ireland,
0:03:17 > 0:03:21but he has lived in so many places across the world.
0:03:21 > 0:03:23Despite having travelled widely,
0:03:23 > 0:03:26the move to Spain will be more of a leap of faith.
0:03:26 > 0:03:28It is not a place we've travelled extensively.
0:03:28 > 0:03:32We have had several holidays there separately over the years.
0:03:32 > 0:03:36They have chosen Valencia because of its climate and accessibility
0:03:36 > 0:03:40to the UK, where their three grown-up sons will continue to live.
0:03:40 > 0:03:44It has got the Mediterranean thing about it.
0:03:44 > 0:03:47And it has got the temperature and the climate,
0:03:47 > 0:03:51without being in the most ferociously hot parts of Spain.
0:03:51 > 0:03:55As well as running the business, Paula has a successful
0:03:55 > 0:03:58writing career, and she hopes Valencia will boost her output.
0:03:58 > 0:04:00I've written quite a few novels of the years
0:04:00 > 0:04:04when my son was growing up, so I am very keen to get a little
0:04:04 > 0:04:08writing hut or shed or a special little writing room.
0:04:08 > 0:04:13While Paula is putting pen to paper, Ken will be powering the pedals.
0:04:13 > 0:04:15I like doing a lot of things outdoors,
0:04:15 > 0:04:18so I like to do a lot of cycling, as much as I can.
0:04:18 > 0:04:21There is a big cycling culture in Spain.
0:04:21 > 0:04:24I'd really look forward to the challenges of the local terrain.
0:04:24 > 0:04:27With a budget of £250,000
0:04:27 > 0:04:31and cash for a deposit already in the bank,
0:04:31 > 0:04:35they are looking forward to starting this next chapter in their lives.
0:04:38 > 0:04:39Our buyers want us
0:04:39 > 0:04:43to focus their house search inland from the coastal city
0:04:43 > 0:04:47of Valencia and within a reasonable driving distance of its airport.
0:04:47 > 0:04:50So where better to nail down the finer details of their planned
0:04:50 > 0:04:54move than at Valencia's latest architectural masterpiece -
0:04:54 > 0:04:56the City Of Arts And Sciences?
0:04:58 > 0:05:00- Ken, Paula, welcome to Spain. - Thank you.- Hi.
0:05:00 > 0:05:02What type of house do you want?
0:05:02 > 0:05:04We want to be rural. We want to be out in the country.
0:05:04 > 0:05:08If we can have some views, sort of maybe the foothills or the mountains,
0:05:08 > 0:05:09that would be absolutely gorgeous.
0:05:09 > 0:05:12I think we want a pool and, you know, if there is no
0:05:12 > 0:05:15barbecue, we'll build a barbecue for the outdoor life.
0:05:15 > 0:05:16So we really like that.
0:05:16 > 0:05:19A little bit of land that we could perhaps do things with,
0:05:19 > 0:05:22- that would be important. - How many bedrooms?
0:05:22 > 0:05:25Three, I guess, would be a good place to start.
0:05:25 > 0:05:28We would really like a little cottage for a couple of reasons.
0:05:28 > 0:05:29First of all, obviously, family.
0:05:29 > 0:05:31Family and friends to come and visit.
0:05:31 > 0:05:34But if we do find a nice property with a cottage, we would love it
0:05:34 > 0:05:36if we could actually do some writing retreat.
0:05:36 > 0:05:39Possibly a business couples retreat. Something...
0:05:39 > 0:05:42If it's as we want - private and secluded.
0:05:42 > 0:05:45I think you have got so many ideas. I think you are raring to go.
0:05:45 > 0:05:50I just wonder if maybe it's all...
0:05:50 > 0:05:52It's this amazing dream at the minute.
0:05:52 > 0:05:54Look, it is a big step.
0:05:54 > 0:05:57We are not talking about a holiday home and so we'll just
0:05:57 > 0:06:00retreat back to the UK for a certain chunk of the year.
0:06:00 > 0:06:03This is a much bigger project. You know, the stakes are pretty high.
0:06:03 > 0:06:07- Who speaks Spanish?- None of us. - No hands going up in the air here.
0:06:07 > 0:06:11No, we don't speak. But we don't see that as a hindrance here.
0:06:11 > 0:06:13We would love the opportunity to learn the language,
0:06:13 > 0:06:15immerse ourselves with the locals.
0:06:15 > 0:06:17How much have you got to spend? What is the budget?
0:06:17 > 0:06:20£250,000, 300,000 euros, say.
0:06:20 > 0:06:23- Well, I have got a few properties lined up to show you.- Yeah?
0:06:23 > 0:06:26- Come on and let's go.- Fabulous. - Follow me.- Thank you.
0:06:26 > 0:06:29With a budget of up to £250,000,
0:06:29 > 0:06:32Ken and Paula are seeking a rural property
0:06:32 > 0:06:35with outside space and good views.
0:06:35 > 0:06:39They'd like three bedrooms, space for an office and a swimming pool.
0:06:39 > 0:06:42If possible, they would have a separate cottage or annexe
0:06:42 > 0:06:44from which to run a writing holiday business.
0:06:44 > 0:06:48They are keen to throw themselves into local life and plan to get to
0:06:48 > 0:06:49grips with the language.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52We hope to uncover Ken and Paula's dream home
0:06:52 > 0:06:57from a range of three Valencian properties, including the mystery house,
0:06:57 > 0:06:59which could offer our entrepreneurial couple
0:06:59 > 0:07:03a whole new business opportunity they have never considered.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12Our first property is located close to the town of Godelleta,
0:07:12 > 0:07:15around 20 miles from the city of Valencia.
0:07:15 > 0:07:19Although in a rural setting, it is part of a larger modern development
0:07:19 > 0:07:23and comes with its own private swimming pool and mountain views.
0:07:25 > 0:07:26Follow me.
0:07:29 > 0:07:30And in you come.
0:07:30 > 0:07:32Honest first impressions.
0:07:32 > 0:07:36OK. very, very nice once you come inside the gates.
0:07:36 > 0:07:41- Very secluded, very lush, very mature considering it is not that old. - Iron bars.
0:07:41 > 0:07:45- OK. That's a no-no. - Yeah, it's only because I grew up in South Africa
0:07:45 > 0:07:46and I lived all my life like that,
0:07:46 > 0:07:51- so I am kind of... It doesn't bother Ken, it bothers me.- Fine.
0:07:51 > 0:07:54But I do like the arches. I like the roof.
0:07:54 > 0:07:57I like that sort of very Spanish-style look.
0:07:57 > 0:07:59It is very typically Spanish.
0:07:59 > 0:08:02On first impressions, I'm not sure if they are completely sold,
0:08:02 > 0:08:06but hopefully when they have seen a bit more of the property,
0:08:06 > 0:08:08Ken and Paula will warm to our detached Spanish villa,
0:08:08 > 0:08:12which was built around 14 years ago.
0:08:12 > 0:08:15The main living space is accessed via a large terrace,
0:08:15 > 0:08:17a perfect spot for evening entertaining.
0:08:19 > 0:08:22Into the living room.
0:08:22 > 0:08:23What do you think of it?
0:08:23 > 0:08:26Nice, modern kitchen.
0:08:26 > 0:08:28I like the open plan.
0:08:28 > 0:08:30I like the way the kitchen is finished.
0:08:30 > 0:08:33You've got all the utilities here.
0:08:33 > 0:08:35I'd prefer not to have the sitting room
0:08:35 > 0:08:39and the dining facilities close together like that.
0:08:39 > 0:08:43So sitting in here, within our lounge area, probably wouldn't...
0:08:43 > 0:08:45- That's not so good.- Yeah.
0:08:45 > 0:08:47But having a terrace next to the kitchen,
0:08:47 > 0:08:51- that kind of outdoorsy things is good for you.- Yeah.
0:08:51 > 0:08:54This isn't your thing, you need a bit more space.
0:08:54 > 0:08:55Also on this floor,
0:08:55 > 0:08:58there are four bedrooms, all served by a main family bathroom.
0:08:58 > 0:09:02Off those bedrooms, two decent-sized doubles
0:09:02 > 0:09:04and there are two smaller rooms.
0:09:04 > 0:09:06But if space is a concern,
0:09:06 > 0:09:09then this property has more to offer back outside.
0:09:09 > 0:09:13Underneath the terrace, there are two rooms currently used
0:09:13 > 0:09:16for storage, but which could provide office space
0:09:16 > 0:09:18for Ken and Paula's business.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21What do you think?
0:09:21 > 0:09:25Uh... It's a strange little area.
0:09:25 > 0:09:27You could do a lot of things in there.
0:09:27 > 0:09:31It is set up with gas and water and electricity.
0:09:31 > 0:09:34It could be a little mini home.
0:09:34 > 0:09:36I like the idea of the office,
0:09:36 > 0:09:38thinking that we will need something like that.
0:09:38 > 0:09:40I think it would take quite a bit of work to get it
0:09:40 > 0:09:43converted into something that was really going to work.
0:09:43 > 0:09:46We are very keen on some kind of a little cottage or some
0:09:46 > 0:09:50kind of outhouse that we can turn into a retreat.
0:09:50 > 0:09:51That wouldn't work.
0:09:51 > 0:09:54Let's go towards the pool and the view - to talk about money.
0:09:56 > 0:09:59The rest of the outside space includes a large enclosed
0:09:59 > 0:10:04garden with fruit trees and vines, a spacious car port and an outhouse
0:10:04 > 0:10:08set up to cook paella, a traditional feature of many Spanish properties.
0:10:08 > 0:10:12- A stunning view. I mean, it really is all about that, isn't it?- Yes.
0:10:12 > 0:10:15It's quite gorgeous. How much do you think it is on the market for?
0:10:15 > 0:10:17Let's start with you, Ken.
0:10:17 > 0:10:20£140,000.
0:10:20 > 0:10:22- Paula.- 120.
0:10:22 > 0:10:26£120,000. OK, well, you are both way off.
0:10:26 > 0:10:29- They have actually put it on for £250,000.- Wow.- Wow.
0:10:30 > 0:10:34The price of our first property at the top end of their budget
0:10:34 > 0:10:37comes at a bit of a shock to Ken and Paula.
0:10:37 > 0:10:40It is a modern, detached villa with an open plan living area
0:10:40 > 0:10:43and four bedrooms, a private swimming pool,
0:10:43 > 0:10:48set in a peaceful location around 20 miles from the city of Valencia.
0:10:48 > 0:10:52- Have you seen enough?- Yes, thank you.- Yes.
0:10:52 > 0:10:56We're done with the first property. OK, well, there's lots more.
0:10:56 > 0:10:58- Let's go.- Great.
0:11:06 > 0:11:08For our next offering, we are heading to the
0:11:08 > 0:11:13village of Chulilla, which is 40 miles west of the city of Valencia.
0:11:13 > 0:11:16At around 360 meters above sea level,
0:11:16 > 0:11:20the medieval village is nestled in the surrounding mountains
0:11:20 > 0:11:22and is a popular destination for rock climbers.
0:11:22 > 0:11:26Our next property is a mile and a half outside of the village,
0:11:26 > 0:11:28located in woodland on the mountainside.
0:11:28 > 0:11:32Come in, come in, come in to the next property.
0:11:34 > 0:11:37- This is...- This looks very exciting. - This is much more on it, OK?
0:11:37 > 0:11:40From what we have seen before.
0:11:40 > 0:11:43OK, the peacefulness and tranquillity,
0:11:43 > 0:11:46and silence and quietness, the woods.
0:11:46 > 0:11:49- The trees. - This is rural and isolated.
0:11:49 > 0:11:55There is just something about it that is charming and nice and old.
0:11:55 > 0:11:57I think we have seen enough, what do you think?
0:11:57 > 0:11:58I think we should go now, yeah?
0:11:58 > 0:12:02- No, you go, we're going that way. - All right, come on, let's go.- Great.
0:12:02 > 0:12:07Built in 1984, this secluded Spanish villa seems to hit
0:12:07 > 0:12:11the spot at face value, but will the inside deliver, too?
0:12:11 > 0:12:12And in you come...
0:12:14 > 0:12:17- ..to...- Oh!- ..a living room!
0:12:17 > 0:12:20Oh, gorgeous fireplace!
0:12:20 > 0:12:23So this is the main lounge.
0:12:23 > 0:12:25I like the brightness of it.
0:12:25 > 0:12:28Sometimes these more traditional properties have small windows,
0:12:28 > 0:12:33a little dark, very characterful. But this has got nice,
0:12:33 > 0:12:34wide windows, doors.
0:12:34 > 0:12:37Absolutely gorgeous. And something very interesting out there.
0:12:37 > 0:12:40Yeah, you can go straight onto the terrace, basically.
0:12:40 > 0:12:42You've got a beautiful terrace attached to the lounge,
0:12:42 > 0:12:43that you can go straight out onto.
0:12:43 > 0:12:47- You look at that in a moment. - And the view.- And the view is there. - Oh, yeah.
0:12:47 > 0:12:50As well as the spacious living area,
0:12:50 > 0:12:53this floor also features four bedrooms, including a master
0:12:53 > 0:12:57with en suite bathroom and three other good-sized bedrooms.
0:12:57 > 0:12:59Plenty of options for the office.
0:12:59 > 0:13:03There is also a stylish family bathroom.
0:13:03 > 0:13:05But we are heading to the kitchen.
0:13:05 > 0:13:08- This is huge! - Yes. What do you think?
0:13:08 > 0:13:12I can see us in this kitchen. I can see us cooking.
0:13:12 > 0:13:14I can see us chopping.
0:13:14 > 0:13:15I love that you can visualise that.
0:13:15 > 0:13:18Now, you have seen the interior of the house, you think it is
0:13:18 > 0:13:21all right, but in my opinion, I have saved the best till last.
0:13:21 > 0:13:24Come on, there's more. There's more.
0:13:24 > 0:13:27Paula wants somewhere to lock herself away when she writes
0:13:27 > 0:13:30her books, and I have something in mind for her outside.
0:13:30 > 0:13:33Oh, wow!
0:13:33 > 0:13:36But first let's not forget the pool.
0:13:36 > 0:13:39Ken, big enough for you, sir?
0:13:39 > 0:13:43- I could handle a few lengths there. - OK. So the pool is good?
0:13:43 > 0:13:45The pool is lovely.
0:13:45 > 0:13:48I mean, it's not a block, it's not a rectangular block.
0:13:48 > 0:13:50I want you to do this, there. I'd like you to stand here.
0:13:50 > 0:13:54Ken, I'd like you to join me. I'd like you to face this way.
0:13:54 > 0:13:56- Gee. - I want to...- A little cabin.
0:13:56 > 0:13:58- Yeah.- It's my little writing room.
0:13:58 > 0:14:00Leaving me to the pool and the television.
0:14:00 > 0:14:02You can go wherever you want, that's my writing room.
0:14:02 > 0:14:06The wonderful thing about this cabin is that, actually, the woman who
0:14:06 > 0:14:11owns this house at the moment writes her book in that cabin, weirdly.
0:14:11 > 0:14:16But beyond that, they actually rent it out as well.
0:14:16 > 0:14:18The potential is there for you to...
0:14:18 > 0:14:21For our little writing retreat we were talking about.
0:14:21 > 0:14:23What about you, Ken, where is your space?
0:14:23 > 0:14:27There's a lot of places where I think I could enjoy being.
0:14:27 > 0:14:31Are you feeling the love as much as Paula is?
0:14:31 > 0:14:34Um... I think it is a beautiful home.
0:14:34 > 0:14:35I think it is glorious.
0:14:35 > 0:14:37I could see myself living here with Paula.
0:14:37 > 0:14:40From a practical point of view, it has got a number of features
0:14:40 > 0:14:44that are important, but it goes beyond that.
0:14:44 > 0:14:47You feel, you know, this is actually a really nice home.
0:14:47 > 0:14:50And you are Mr Practical, and there is, obviously,
0:14:50 > 0:14:53one big practicality that we need to think about, and that is price.
0:14:53 > 0:14:56But I think we should retire to the pool area to mull on that,
0:14:56 > 0:14:57don't you?
0:14:57 > 0:15:01- Sure.- It is only civilized, I think. Come on, let's get onto it.
0:15:03 > 0:15:06The rest of the outside space comprises separate terraces offering
0:15:06 > 0:15:11different areas for relaxation as well as an outside barbecuing area.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15If Paula takes the log cabin for her writing room,
0:15:15 > 0:15:18then there are also two storage rooms underneath the main
0:15:18 > 0:15:21house that could be converted into a writer's retreat,
0:15:21 > 0:15:23subject to planning permission.
0:15:23 > 0:15:29- So, Paula, let's start with you. How much do you think it is on the market for?- 250.- Ken.
0:15:29 > 0:15:31£225,000.
0:15:31 > 0:15:32You are both wrong.
0:15:32 > 0:15:38It is on the market at £210,000.
0:15:38 > 0:15:41- Mm!- I didn't do such a bad job. - You didn't do such a bad job.
0:15:41 > 0:15:43Neither of you did, really.
0:15:43 > 0:15:48£40,000 below budget, our mountain hideaway is a four-bedroom
0:15:48 > 0:15:52villa with a spacious kitchen, large swimming pool and cosy log cabin.
0:15:53 > 0:15:55Don't do it, Ken!
0:15:56 > 0:15:57It's lovely, isn't it?
0:15:57 > 0:16:01- But I think for now we can leave this house behind.- OK.- Yeah?
0:16:01 > 0:16:06- Let's go.- It will be tough. - Let me prise you away.- Yes, pull us.
0:16:14 > 0:16:17It's the final day of Ken and Paula's time here in Valencia.
0:16:17 > 0:16:20And to give them an insight into the practical considerations
0:16:20 > 0:16:23that a move to Spain would entail,
0:16:23 > 0:16:26I am taking our sun-loving couple to Valencia's beachfront to meet
0:16:26 > 0:16:30some British ex-pats who also enjoy the outdoor life to find out
0:16:30 > 0:16:33how relocating to Spain has been for them.
0:16:33 > 0:16:35- Miles, Ingrid, hello. - Hi there.
0:16:35 > 0:16:40Meet Paula and Ken, your cycle buddies for the day.
0:16:40 > 0:16:43I'm going to leave you kids to it. Enjoy.
0:16:43 > 0:16:45Ladies bike for you, away you go.
0:16:45 > 0:16:49Ken, take your pick, they're both the same.
0:16:49 > 0:16:54Miles and Ingrid moved here 24 years ago.
0:16:54 > 0:16:58Miles is a writer himself, having contributed to many travel books on the area.
0:16:58 > 0:17:01They are taking Ken and Paula on a literary
0:17:01 > 0:17:04and artistic tour of the city's seafront.
0:17:05 > 0:17:07Well, here we are, Valencia's beach.
0:17:07 > 0:17:10- It looks fantastic, doesn't it? - Doesn't it just?
0:17:10 > 0:17:12But really, you know, you need to try
0:17:12 > 0:17:15and think of it as it was just over 100 years ago.
0:17:15 > 0:17:18There would have been striped beach tents like that.
0:17:18 > 0:17:22There would have been fishing boats lined up.
0:17:22 > 0:17:24Bathers in full costume.
0:17:24 > 0:17:27And oxen, oxen to pull in the fishing boats.
0:17:27 > 0:17:32This was a favourite spot for painting for Joaquin Sorolla,
0:17:32 > 0:17:35perhaps Valencia's most famous 19th century son.
0:17:36 > 0:17:38At almost two miles long,
0:17:38 > 0:17:42the palm fringed promenade offers a range of dining options.
0:17:42 > 0:17:45This restaurant has been going for more than a century
0:17:45 > 0:17:49and was a favourite of writer Ernest Hemingway back in the days
0:17:49 > 0:17:51when it was just a shed on the sand.
0:17:51 > 0:17:54Next stop, the former home of Valencia's most famous
0:17:54 > 0:17:58literary son - Vicente Blasco Ibanez.
0:17:58 > 0:18:01He lived about the same time as Sorolla, the painter.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04And what Sorolla did in pictures, he did with words.
0:18:04 > 0:18:06This was just his summer house,
0:18:06 > 0:18:08so you can see, he made quite a bit of money.
0:18:08 > 0:18:11One of his novels was made into a film.
0:18:11 > 0:18:13Now, we're talking early 20th century here,
0:18:13 > 0:18:17so it was a silent movie, but they made it in Hollywood.
0:18:17 > 0:18:22And so that is really where he got his international fame.
0:18:22 > 0:18:25After their peddle tour, I am rendezvousing with them
0:18:25 > 0:18:27at one of the cafes along the promenade
0:18:27 > 0:18:31to learn more about the realities of life in this part of Spain.
0:18:31 > 0:18:36You have settled in Valencia, you probably had other options, what do
0:18:36 > 0:18:39you think the big advantage of this part of Spain offers
0:18:39 > 0:18:42- versus other parts? - Other parts of Spain?
0:18:42 > 0:18:46There is a word in Spanish - alegria - it means sort of joy,
0:18:46 > 0:18:48lightheartedness.
0:18:48 > 0:18:51And people who live on this coast, the Levante people,
0:18:51 > 0:18:55the Levantinos, the Levante that used to be the coast of Spain,
0:18:55 > 0:18:58for me, have a sort of lightness, a joy about them
0:18:58 > 0:19:02that you don't find in the Basque Country or
0:19:02 > 0:19:05up in the cold capital of Madrid.
0:19:05 > 0:19:07How would it be for the two of them?
0:19:07 > 0:19:09Because neither of them speak any Spanish.
0:19:09 > 0:19:11I think that would be quite difficult.
0:19:11 > 0:19:16I would certainly recommend listening to some recordings,
0:19:16 > 0:19:20having the basics, being able to do the basics, and then build on that.
0:19:20 > 0:19:25But what about the cultural side of actually fitting in in Spain?
0:19:25 > 0:19:28What are the important things that they need to know?
0:19:28 > 0:19:31The timetable is completely different from Britain.
0:19:31 > 0:19:34Lunch is never before two o'clock.
0:19:34 > 0:19:38And if you're going to fit in, you better stick to their timetable.
0:19:38 > 0:19:39I know you have been here for 24 years
0:19:39 > 0:19:43and you are pretty Spanish, but what do you miss about Britain?
0:19:43 > 0:19:47I miss spring and autumn, because here the seasons...
0:19:47 > 0:19:52Well, it's very warm at the moment, but it could change in an instant.
0:19:52 > 0:19:54So you don't get... You don't get autumn,
0:19:54 > 0:19:57you don't get spring, and I really miss the spring flowers.
0:19:57 > 0:19:59Miles and Ingrid have given our buyers a good
0:19:59 > 0:20:02insight into life here in Valencia.
0:20:02 > 0:20:04But if you are considering buying in Spain,
0:20:04 > 0:20:08there are a number of practical considerations to bear in mind.
0:20:08 > 0:20:11Unlike in the UK, a sum is paid up front to take
0:20:11 > 0:20:14the property off the market, initially for 30 days.
0:20:14 > 0:20:18At that deadline, an option contract is then signed
0:20:18 > 0:20:21and a deposit of up to 30% is paid.
0:20:21 > 0:20:25Allow for between 10% and 14% of the purchase price
0:20:25 > 0:20:27to cover the costs of buying a property.
0:20:27 > 0:20:32This includes Transfer Tax, the Spanish equivalent of stamp duty.
0:20:32 > 0:20:34If you are buying off plan or a new build,
0:20:34 > 0:20:38you must make sure the License of First Occupation has
0:20:38 > 0:20:41been granted before completing the purchase.
0:20:41 > 0:20:44This gives the building its legal status and is only granted
0:20:44 > 0:20:48once the developer has fulfilled their obligations.
0:20:53 > 0:20:56For our mystery house, we are returning to the town
0:20:56 > 0:20:58where we began, at Godelleta,
0:20:58 > 0:21:01with its Moorish tower opposite the plaza of the church.
0:21:01 > 0:21:06We have selected a challenging property that will really test how adventurous they are prepared to be.
0:21:06 > 0:21:10Before we see the main house, I am taking them to the star attraction.
0:21:10 > 0:21:13But are they willing to take the bull by the horns?
0:21:13 > 0:21:16Goodness me!
0:21:17 > 0:21:19You've taken us to a bullring!
0:21:19 > 0:21:24Can you get anything more Spanish than your very own bullring?
0:21:24 > 0:21:25Get out of town!
0:21:25 > 0:21:28- This is really a property? - This comes with the property.
0:21:28 > 0:21:31I wanted to show you this before I showed you anything else.
0:21:31 > 0:21:34- Wow.- What would you do with that, then, Paula?
0:21:34 > 0:21:37- It is a hell of a kitty.- You could get a lot of writers in there.
0:21:37 > 0:21:40A lot of under five-year-olds.
0:21:40 > 0:21:43So this comes with the property. You get your very own bullring.
0:21:43 > 0:21:45You'll be pleased to know, there is a house attached as well.
0:21:45 > 0:21:48- That's a good point, yes. - So this isn't the property?
0:21:48 > 0:21:52This is part of it. There are rooms where you can retire to.
0:21:52 > 0:21:55- Would you like to see those? - Yes, please.
0:21:55 > 0:21:59The property's original owner was in the bullfighting world.
0:21:59 > 0:22:02And as well as the ring, the package comes with stables
0:22:02 > 0:22:05and a tack room, a children's playground
0:22:05 > 0:22:07and a swimming pool in need of a clean.
0:22:07 > 0:22:09With a bit of imagination,
0:22:09 > 0:22:12there's scope here to turn the mystery property into a small leisure complex,
0:22:12 > 0:22:17and the idea hasn't made our buyers see red so far.
0:22:17 > 0:22:19Here it is. Here is the villa.
0:22:19 > 0:22:22- What do you think? - Traditional.- Mm-hm.
0:22:22 > 0:22:26- Traditional hacienda.- Yeah. - Nice areas of shade.- OK.
0:22:26 > 0:22:30On the basis of one side of it, it looks very nice. It looks very...
0:22:30 > 0:22:32- It looks big, spacious.- Yes.
0:22:32 > 0:22:35Typical Spanish villa.
0:22:35 > 0:22:39- And you have got the drive that comes in.- Fantastic driveway, regal.
0:22:39 > 0:22:43- Beautiful palm trees. - It is really well done.
0:22:43 > 0:22:46- Shall we go inside to see what else it has got to offer?- Love to.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50Constructed in 1980, all the accommodation
0:22:50 > 0:22:53in the main house is across one floor.
0:22:53 > 0:22:56Come in. Two double bedrooms.
0:22:56 > 0:22:58Master bathroom.
0:22:58 > 0:23:04Into the big old living space.
0:23:04 > 0:23:05There is a lot of things going on here.
0:23:05 > 0:23:09A lot of elements we haven't seen in play until now.
0:23:09 > 0:23:11So I guess it takes, you know...
0:23:11 > 0:23:14Sort of forget what you have seen up to now, now start again.
0:23:14 > 0:23:17It sort of challenges you that way.
0:23:17 > 0:23:21The layout on the same floor, bedrooms leading off the dining area.
0:23:21 > 0:23:25It is a very different style and layout to what we have seen so far.
0:23:25 > 0:23:27- So I'm just trying to get it all in order.- Take it all in.
0:23:27 > 0:23:30And sort of try and see yourself and see
0:23:30 > 0:23:33if you could be living in this type of environment.
0:23:34 > 0:23:37As well as the two bedrooms off the entrance hall,
0:23:37 > 0:23:40there are two further bedrooms off the living area.
0:23:40 > 0:23:45But I want to show our buyers more of the entertaining space outside.
0:23:45 > 0:23:49Now, check out this for an outdoor kitchen-barbeque zone.
0:23:49 > 0:23:52- Wow! - It has even got its own dance floor.
0:23:54 > 0:23:57Come on, Ken, I bet you have got some moves.
0:23:57 > 0:24:01This is not a tennis court, it is a Valencian game called fronton.
0:24:01 > 0:24:04And I guess it is similar to tennis and squash,
0:24:04 > 0:24:07I know, Paula, you love your outside space and your mind,
0:24:07 > 0:24:09I can almost hear it ticking.
0:24:09 > 0:24:13- What is it thinking? - I'm not sure, actually.- Wow.
0:24:13 > 0:24:16There are just so many different things going on here. It's just...
0:24:16 > 0:24:21It is just so unusual. Really, really unusual for a home. So, yeah, a lot to think about.
0:24:21 > 0:24:26Now, whatever it was Paula and I thought would be the lifestyle we'll
0:24:26 > 0:24:29generate in Spain, this just shreds it.
0:24:29 > 0:24:32There is a little bit more I want to show you. Come on.
0:24:34 > 0:24:37Leaving the outdoor entertainment space to one side,
0:24:37 > 0:24:39the property also has more conventional terraced areas.
0:24:39 > 0:24:43All in all, the land area amounts to three acres.
0:24:43 > 0:24:47How much do you think, Paula, that this property,
0:24:47 > 0:24:51with its bullring and its various areas, is on for?
0:24:51 > 0:24:53Between 220, 225 for this.
0:24:53 > 0:24:55- Ken?- £280,000.
0:24:55 > 0:24:59It is actually over your budget by £50,000.
0:24:59 > 0:25:03It is on for £300,000.
0:25:03 > 0:25:09I think it does force you to challenge your house buying
0:25:09 > 0:25:10priorities that you came in with.
0:25:10 > 0:25:12And I know it is easy - it's over budget
0:25:12 > 0:25:15and there are few things wrong with it, let's dismiss it, let's move on.
0:25:15 > 0:25:19Easy decision, OK? But I do think it is worth saying, "Hang on a minute,
0:25:19 > 0:25:23"this is just so different in its facilities, let's rethink it."
0:25:24 > 0:25:29Over budget by £50,000, the owners of our Spanish theme park
0:25:29 > 0:25:33are open to offers, and the property has a ready been reduced in price.
0:25:33 > 0:25:36As well as the main villa, it comes with its own bullring,
0:25:36 > 0:25:39a children's playground and horse-riding facilities.
0:25:39 > 0:25:43The house has four bedrooms arranged off a large living space.
0:25:43 > 0:25:47- Ha-ha. Seen enough of the mystery? - Yes.
0:25:47 > 0:25:52- The bullring and all of that, yeah. - Is it still a mystery?- Fronton.
0:25:52 > 0:25:55Fronton, side-on, back-on, yeah.
0:25:55 > 0:25:59All right, well, it's time to leave here then. So this way, follow me.
0:26:03 > 0:26:06So, we are back in central Valencia to discuss
0:26:06 > 0:26:09the journey that the two of you have been on.
0:26:09 > 0:26:12- And I really think it has been a journey.- Absolutely, yes.
0:26:12 > 0:26:14You've never been here before.
0:26:14 > 0:26:18- How do you feel about this area in Spain now?- We love it.
0:26:18 > 0:26:23it has cemented a lot of good feelings I had about it before I came out.
0:26:23 > 0:26:26So, which property is your favourite?
0:26:26 > 0:26:30I really like the pine forest property, the mountain property.
0:26:30 > 0:26:36It was the only property that gave me a clear buzz and a feeling that,
0:26:36 > 0:26:40"Gee, I could see myself enjoying living here."
0:26:40 > 0:26:43It had beautiful views, the little nooks and crannies
0:26:43 > 0:26:47they had made and the privacy and seclusion really ticked my boxes.
0:26:47 > 0:26:52When we got here, we are really at the beginning of your journey.
0:26:52 > 0:26:54You are absolute newbies to all of this.
0:26:54 > 0:26:56You have got this idea of moving abroad somewhere warm.
0:26:56 > 0:26:58Where are we now after our journey together?
0:26:58 > 0:27:02I think there is a next stage of interrogation to go through,
0:27:02 > 0:27:06due diligence, and I think it would be sensible to see again,
0:27:06 > 0:27:08get the opportunity to ask a few more questions,
0:27:08 > 0:27:13find out a few issues, get to the bottom of those,
0:27:13 > 0:27:15- that'd be a good start. - So excited for the two of you.
0:27:15 > 0:27:18I think this is the start of a whole new life for you.
0:27:18 > 0:27:21You are recently married, newlyweds, in love,
0:27:21 > 0:27:23and you are going to move somewhere hot.
0:27:23 > 0:27:25And I hope it is that mountain property, I really do.
0:27:25 > 0:27:30- I hope I can come back in six months and stay.- You can. We'll invite you to come and visit.
0:27:30 > 0:27:33- Both of you, best of luck. I've really enjoyed my time here with the two of you.- Thank you.
0:27:38 > 0:27:41When Ken and Paula first started their journey with me here in Spain,
0:27:41 > 0:27:45they just had this inkling of an idea that this is maybe where they would like to live.
0:27:45 > 0:27:48Now, they are practically on the verge of moving here.
0:27:48 > 0:27:52But they are newlyweds and this will be a whole new life for them.
0:27:52 > 0:27:55And you know what? With their can-do, positive attitude, I think
0:27:55 > 0:27:58their time here will be an absolute success.
0:27:58 > 0:28:01Join me next time for another Escape to the Continent.
0:28:03 > 0:28:05If you had planned to escape to the continent, too,
0:28:05 > 0:28:07and would like our help, you can...