0:00:02 > 0:00:04- Paradise!- Absolutely.
0:00:04 > 0:00:06What if you could live abroad in winter,
0:00:06 > 0:00:10for the same cost as living in the UK?
0:00:10 > 0:00:13This is priced at 595 per month.
0:00:13 > 0:00:15Is that all?
0:00:15 > 0:00:18By renting a piece of paradise.
0:00:18 > 0:00:19Unbelievable!
0:00:19 > 0:00:20Wow, this is amazing.
0:00:20 > 0:00:25You could swap sleet and snow for sun and sand.
0:00:25 > 0:00:27Right, so let's go and look at some properties.
0:00:27 > 0:00:29Well, absolutely.
0:00:31 > 0:00:33Get Away for Winter teams up sun seekers
0:00:33 > 0:00:35with a local property expert...
0:00:35 > 0:00:37- Can you see yourself in here? - I can, yeah.
0:00:37 > 0:00:40..to find their perfect rental retreat.
0:00:40 > 0:00:42It's like you're on holiday all the time!
0:00:43 > 0:00:46Together they'll leave no stone unturned...
0:00:46 > 0:00:48This is unbelievable, isn't it?
0:00:48 > 0:00:53..in order to find and fund their dream winter getaway.
0:00:53 > 0:00:56This is what I was dreaming of, and didn't even think existed.
0:01:03 > 0:01:06Here in Campbeltown on the west Coast of Scotland,
0:01:06 > 0:01:10the winter means relentless rain and grim, grey skies.
0:01:10 > 0:01:11It may be on the Mull of Kintyre,
0:01:11 > 0:01:14but the winter weather leaves a lot to be desired.
0:01:14 > 0:01:18Two locals plotting to escape to sunnier climes
0:01:18 > 0:01:21are husband and wife of 52 years, Keith and Greer.
0:01:21 > 0:01:25I'm fairly easy-going, I don't mind where we stay,
0:01:25 > 0:01:27where we live or what we do.
0:01:27 > 0:01:28He says he's easy-going.
0:01:28 > 0:01:31I don't think that's quite true!
0:01:31 > 0:01:33He's very good at complaining.
0:01:33 > 0:01:34He's got a degree in that.
0:01:35 > 0:01:39Mr Angry from Campbeltown, yeah, Victor Meldrew.
0:01:39 > 0:01:42Yeah, Victor Meldrew is a very good description.
0:01:43 > 0:01:45They moved from England 24 years ago to run
0:01:45 > 0:01:48a cattery and boarding kennels.
0:01:48 > 0:01:51Although they've sold up and retired, their dogs,
0:01:51 > 0:01:55Kayleigh and Venture, are still very central to their lives.
0:01:55 > 0:01:59We have two rough collies which are Lassie-type dogs.
0:01:59 > 0:02:01They are very much part of the family.
0:02:01 > 0:02:05We go out quite a lot because of the dogs we've got,
0:02:05 > 0:02:09but you'd have to put a woolly hat on, waterproof trousers,
0:02:09 > 0:02:11waterproof shoes, a big thick coat.
0:02:11 > 0:02:14Wrapping up warm from the wild winter weather
0:02:14 > 0:02:18is not the only problem for these two.
0:02:18 > 0:02:23I suffer quite a bit with arthritis in my hands and knees, and
0:02:23 > 0:02:26although I play golf to try and keep active,
0:02:26 > 0:02:32in damp weather, there is no doubt it affects arthritis quite severely.
0:02:32 > 0:02:36Greer suffers from a painful foot condition called hammertoe, and is
0:02:36 > 0:02:38waiting for an operation which they hope will be
0:02:38 > 0:02:40before they jet off for the winter.
0:02:40 > 0:02:45I want to get away while I can, and be able to walk comfortably
0:02:45 > 0:02:51and enjoy the sunshine, which we don't get much here of.
0:02:51 > 0:02:54In order to reap the benefits of living in a warmer climate,
0:02:54 > 0:02:57Keith and Greer want to get away for around two months of this year,
0:02:57 > 0:02:59ideally with the dogs in tow.
0:02:59 > 0:03:01Now, if that's not possible,
0:03:01 > 0:03:04they need to work out who can take care of them in Scotland.
0:03:04 > 0:03:06But to make their winter dreams a financial reality,
0:03:06 > 0:03:09they do have some ideas.
0:03:09 > 0:03:12We have a self-contained unit downstairs.
0:03:12 > 0:03:14We have in the past rented downstairs
0:03:14 > 0:03:17to local nurses from the nursing home,
0:03:17 > 0:03:19and also overspills from hotels,
0:03:19 > 0:03:21and it's something we would consider.
0:03:23 > 0:03:27Keith and Greer live in a four bedroom detached house
0:03:27 > 0:03:29ten minutes' walk from the centre of the town.
0:03:29 > 0:03:31Now, if they do decide to rent out that
0:03:31 > 0:03:32one-bedroom self-contained flat,
0:03:32 > 0:03:36local estate agents estimate they could make up to £600 a month,
0:03:36 > 0:03:40or £50 a night if they use online accommodation services.
0:03:42 > 0:03:45If they aren't able to rent this space while they're away,
0:03:45 > 0:03:49Keith and Greer think they can save £470 a month
0:03:49 > 0:03:51on household bills and car costs.
0:03:51 > 0:03:55With those savings and the profits they have from selling their kennel
0:03:55 > 0:03:58business, they've set their winter sunshine budget
0:03:58 > 0:04:02at £1,100 per month, £700 of which would be allocated
0:04:02 > 0:04:05to renting their winter bolthole in the sun.
0:04:05 > 0:04:09So where do our couple want to warm their winter bones?
0:04:09 > 0:04:13The area we'd like to go to is the Costa Del Sol in southern Spain.
0:04:13 > 0:04:17We've been there before some years ago.
0:04:17 > 0:04:21That's an area we like, and we know it tends to be warm and sunny,
0:04:21 > 0:04:24which is what we're after, really, in the winter.
0:04:24 > 0:04:27So, it's goodbye to relentless rain,
0:04:27 > 0:04:30and hello sunny Spain.
0:04:30 > 0:04:34The Costa Del Sol region in southern Spain includes popular holiday
0:04:34 > 0:04:37destinations such as Malaga and Fuengirola,
0:04:37 > 0:04:41and it is the Fuengirola area where Keith and Greer would prefer
0:04:41 > 0:04:43to find their winter rental.
0:04:43 > 0:04:45They have good memories of holidays here 20 years ago,
0:04:45 > 0:04:49and Keith has been back more recently to play golf.
0:04:49 > 0:04:52With up to seven hours of sunshine a day, even in winter,
0:04:52 > 0:04:55it's not difficult to see why it's so appealing
0:04:55 > 0:04:57for our sun-starved Brits.
0:04:57 > 0:05:00To make the most of the sunshine, you have long, sandy beaches,
0:05:00 > 0:05:02outdoor restaurants and bars,
0:05:02 > 0:05:04and plenty of promenades to walk the dogs.
0:05:05 > 0:05:07It's an area full of history as well,
0:05:07 > 0:05:11with ancient castle ruins dotted along the coast.
0:05:11 > 0:05:14The rapid development of the area in the last few decades
0:05:14 > 0:05:18means there's plenty of choice when it comes to finding a place to stay.
0:05:19 > 0:05:21From December to February,
0:05:21 > 0:05:24property rentals here can be 40% to 50% lower
0:05:24 > 0:05:26than they are during the summer season,
0:05:26 > 0:05:29so it's a great time to get more for your money.
0:05:30 > 0:05:34To help Keith and Greer find their winter sunshine pad
0:05:34 > 0:05:37is local property agent, Ali Zartash Lloyd.
0:05:37 > 0:05:38Originally from Iran,
0:05:38 > 0:05:41Ali spent almost 30 years in the UK
0:05:41 > 0:05:44before moving to Spain with his wife to run a hotel.
0:05:44 > 0:05:4612 years ago they moved to the Costa Del Sol
0:05:46 > 0:05:48to start their property business.
0:05:48 > 0:05:52We have become committed to Spain.
0:05:52 > 0:05:55This is our home now and this is where we live, and we can't really
0:05:55 > 0:05:57envisage ourselves going anywhere else.
0:05:57 > 0:06:00Ali is not the only one who loves the lifestyle here.
0:06:00 > 0:06:03He knows that good properties are always in high demand,
0:06:03 > 0:06:06and go fast, and not just because people come from abroad.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10Property owners themselves come for winter so lots of properties,
0:06:10 > 0:06:12people own here for holidays.
0:06:12 > 0:06:14In fact, they don't come here June, July and August,
0:06:14 > 0:06:16they actually come in the winter.
0:06:16 > 0:06:18So it's actually you're fighting two things,
0:06:18 > 0:06:23one is owners wanting to use their own property in the winter,
0:06:23 > 0:06:26and also those people who come year after year to Spain,
0:06:26 > 0:06:29wintering in Spain, shall we say.
0:06:29 > 0:06:31Fellow dog lover Ali has his work cut out
0:06:31 > 0:06:33to find Keith and Greer a place
0:06:33 > 0:06:35for them and hopefully their two collies,
0:06:35 > 0:06:37but only one of them will be joining him
0:06:37 > 0:06:40in the Costa Del Sol for the property search.
0:06:40 > 0:06:42Keith and Greer are standing by in Scotland
0:06:42 > 0:06:43to make contact with Ali,
0:06:43 > 0:06:47and tell him exactly what they're looking for in a winter getaway.
0:06:48 > 0:06:50Hi, there, this is Ali.
0:06:50 > 0:06:52Hello, Ali, I'm Keith.
0:06:52 > 0:06:54And I'm Greer.
0:06:54 > 0:06:56Hi, it's nice to meet you both.
0:06:56 > 0:06:58What kind of areas were you looking at?
0:06:58 > 0:07:00We're fairly open to areas.
0:07:00 > 0:07:06It would be preferable to be within 20 minutes of the beach, really,
0:07:06 > 0:07:11and dependent on whether we bring our two dogs with us,
0:07:11 > 0:07:15we need somewhere that's enclosed, if we bring them.
0:07:15 > 0:07:17Ideally, we would like to bring them with us.
0:07:17 > 0:07:21One of the dogs wouldn't settle in kennels.
0:07:21 > 0:07:23She would pine for us.
0:07:23 > 0:07:27Only about between eight to 10% of properties
0:07:27 > 0:07:31allow you to have pets, so that really limits your choice, OK?
0:07:31 > 0:07:36- Yes.- Is that is going to pose a serious problem for you,
0:07:36 > 0:07:39if there is no property that accepts dogs?
0:07:39 > 0:07:44It wouldn't be a deal-breaker but it is preferable to have the dogs.
0:07:44 > 0:07:45With or without their two collies,
0:07:45 > 0:07:49Keith and Greer are looking for at least a one-bedroom apartment
0:07:49 > 0:07:52to rent, but high rises are a definite no-no.
0:07:52 > 0:07:54We both suffer a bit from arthritis,
0:07:54 > 0:07:57so not too many stairs or anything like that.
0:07:57 > 0:07:59We've not made it easy for you!
0:07:59 > 0:08:00Sorry about that.
0:08:00 > 0:08:03Which one of you is coming over?
0:08:03 > 0:08:06- I am.- And Greer, you're staying behind in snowy Scotland?
0:08:06 > 0:08:11Yes, there's no snow at the moment but we've had plenty of rain.
0:08:11 > 0:08:13Hopefully, we'll help you escape from that.
0:08:13 > 0:08:17- Thank you.- We'll see you, Keith, when you're here,
0:08:17 > 0:08:18when we do the search.
0:08:18 > 0:08:22- Pleased to be meet you both and see you soon.- Thank you.- Thank you.
0:08:22 > 0:08:26Despite only a small percentage of properties allowing dogs,
0:08:26 > 0:08:29it hasn't put Keith and Greer off finding a way to take them to Spain.
0:08:29 > 0:08:32I wouldn't want to put them in kennels
0:08:32 > 0:08:35for any great length of time.
0:08:35 > 0:08:38The problem, of course, is finding a means of travel that won't be too
0:08:38 > 0:08:42stressful for them. There's a difficult balancing act.
0:08:42 > 0:08:44Keith and Greer have an accommodation budget
0:08:44 > 0:08:47of £700 per month, but there is some flexibility
0:08:47 > 0:08:48for the right property.
0:08:48 > 0:08:51They're looking for an apartment with at least one bedroom,
0:08:51 > 0:08:55and they want to be no more than 20 minutes' drive from the beach,
0:08:55 > 0:08:57and close to restaurants and shops.
0:08:57 > 0:08:59Ideally, they'd like to bring their two dogs,
0:08:59 > 0:09:01so they're looking for pet friendly properties.
0:09:07 > 0:09:08In the Costa Del Sol,
0:09:08 > 0:09:10the summer tourists may be long gone,
0:09:10 > 0:09:13but the sunshine isn't going anywhere for winter.
0:09:17 > 0:09:21Keith has flown 1,800 miles south to Fuengirola,
0:09:21 > 0:09:24and is already soaking up the first rays of the day.
0:09:24 > 0:09:26It certainly does make a difference from home.
0:09:26 > 0:09:29It's a beautiful sunrise this morning,
0:09:29 > 0:09:32and it really is very, very pleasant.
0:09:33 > 0:09:36Also up early is Ali, on his way to meet Keith.
0:09:38 > 0:09:40Fuengirola area is our home place,
0:09:40 > 0:09:41because this is where we live,
0:09:41 > 0:09:43so we know the area really well.
0:09:45 > 0:09:47So really I've been looking from near Malaga,
0:09:47 > 0:09:49from Torremolinos which is near the airport,
0:09:49 > 0:09:50all the way down to Estepona,
0:09:50 > 0:09:52which is west of Marbella.
0:09:52 > 0:09:54So with lots of coast to cover,
0:09:54 > 0:09:56there is no time to waste.
0:09:56 > 0:09:59Looking forward to meeting Ali and looking
0:09:59 > 0:10:02at the properties that have been chosen for me.
0:10:02 > 0:10:04Hello, Ali.
0:10:04 > 0:10:07- Nice to meet you. Great to see you.- Yes, lovely.
0:10:07 > 0:10:09- Are you enjoying the summer weather? - It's beautiful.
0:10:09 > 0:10:12It's been some 20 years since Keith has been to Fuengirola itself,
0:10:12 > 0:10:14but only one thing has changed.
0:10:14 > 0:10:17It looks a little bit more built up, I think,
0:10:17 > 0:10:19but the sun's still shining.
0:10:19 > 0:10:23- The sun is the same and the sea's the same!- Exactly.
0:10:23 > 0:10:26Ali has found four rental properties in the Fuengirola area that
0:10:26 > 0:10:28he hopes will meet Keith and Greer's requirements,
0:10:28 > 0:10:31and those of their two collies.
0:10:31 > 0:10:34- So, you set us a few challenges. - Yes.
0:10:34 > 0:10:37Our biggest challenge really was finding somewhere
0:10:37 > 0:10:39that will take dogs.
0:10:39 > 0:10:41That is definitely a challenge for you.
0:10:41 > 0:10:43At each property,
0:10:43 > 0:10:45Keith will video call Greer back in Scotland,
0:10:45 > 0:10:50to make sure that they get what they both want for their £700 budget.
0:10:50 > 0:10:53Ali is heading out of Fuengirola for property number one.
0:10:53 > 0:10:56We're going to go to Torremolinos.
0:10:56 > 0:11:00The nice thing about this area is it's not just a holiday place,
0:11:00 > 0:11:04it's where people live, so it doesn't empty in the winter.
0:11:04 > 0:11:06You'll find your place there.
0:11:06 > 0:11:08I won't tell you too much about it,
0:11:08 > 0:11:10- because it's going to ruin the surprise.- OK.
0:11:10 > 0:11:13Located 12 miles from Fuengirola,
0:11:13 > 0:11:15the ever-popular resort of Torremolinos sits on
0:11:15 > 0:11:17a four-mile long stretch of sandy beach,
0:11:17 > 0:11:21with temperatures reaching up to 17 degrees in the winter.
0:11:21 > 0:11:25It's no wonder Torremolinos attracts sun-seekers who also enjoy the
0:11:25 > 0:11:27quieter bars and restaurants at this time of the year.
0:11:29 > 0:11:33Originally a tiny fishing village before the growth in tourism
0:11:33 > 0:11:36began in the '50s, Torremolinos was the first of
0:11:36 > 0:11:38the Costa Del Sol resorts to be developed.
0:11:38 > 0:11:41Today there's plenty of charm still to be found if you take a
0:11:41 > 0:11:43stroll down the side streets.
0:11:43 > 0:11:46Keith and Greer were hoping their winter pad
0:11:46 > 0:11:48would be near the beach, and the first property
0:11:48 > 0:11:52just couldn't be closer, just 80 metres from the seafront.
0:11:52 > 0:11:54So that's the building here and that's...
0:11:54 > 0:11:56OK. Nice. Nicely maintained.
0:11:56 > 0:11:58It looks nicely decorated.
0:11:59 > 0:12:02This traditional Spanish style one-bedroom apartment
0:12:02 > 0:12:04has a cosy lounge with a dining area.
0:12:04 > 0:12:09The adjoining kitchen is big enough for two, and a bright bedroom
0:12:09 > 0:12:11has plenty of storage space for Keith and Greer to settle
0:12:11 > 0:12:13in for their stay.
0:12:13 > 0:12:16It's a nice compact little apartment, yes.
0:12:16 > 0:12:19Very pleasant. Very pleasant, yeah.
0:12:19 > 0:12:21- Doing well?- You're doing well so far.
0:12:21 > 0:12:23Good, OK. Yes!
0:12:25 > 0:12:28On top of that, Keith and Greer would be able to bring their dogs,
0:12:28 > 0:12:34because the owners would allow pets for a refundable deposit of £450.
0:12:34 > 0:12:36There's even a little outside space as well.
0:12:36 > 0:12:38A little balcony here as well.
0:12:38 > 0:12:41- A Juliet balcony.- A little Juliet balcony.
0:12:41 > 0:12:46- Very pleasant.- The rental here is £680 per month.
0:12:46 > 0:12:48- Right.- Including all the bills.
0:12:49 > 0:12:51All the bills? Oh, that's good.
0:12:51 > 0:12:53So, can you see yourself here for a few months?
0:12:53 > 0:12:58It looks a comfortable, small apartment and yeah, it looks OK.
0:12:58 > 0:13:00I'll have to see what my wife thinks.
0:13:03 > 0:13:07Back in Campbeltown, Greer and the dogs are holding the fort.
0:13:07 > 0:13:09It's time for Greer to get her first look
0:13:09 > 0:13:12at property one in Torremolinos.
0:13:12 > 0:13:17I'd like to see something perhaps a bit traditionally Spanish,
0:13:17 > 0:13:19rather than ultra-modern.
0:13:19 > 0:13:23Keith will be showing Greer around the apartment via a video call.
0:13:25 > 0:13:27Hi, Greer, how are you?
0:13:27 > 0:13:29Yes, fine, and you?
0:13:29 > 0:13:32Fine, thanks. I'm in Torremolinos at the moment.
0:13:32 > 0:13:35They allow dogs in this apartment.
0:13:35 > 0:13:37It looks quite nice so far, yes.
0:13:37 > 0:13:39If they want to be near the sea,
0:13:39 > 0:13:42this is one of the closest we have got.
0:13:42 > 0:13:44In this kind of location,
0:13:44 > 0:13:46the properties tend to be on the smaller size.
0:13:46 > 0:13:48What are the floors like, Keith?
0:13:48 > 0:13:53You know what Kayleigh's like with slippery, shiny floors.
0:13:53 > 0:13:55Yeah, well, they are all marble.
0:13:55 > 0:13:57Everything's marble.
0:13:57 > 0:13:58One of the collies, Kayleigh,
0:13:58 > 0:14:01has always found it hard to walk on slippery surfaces,
0:14:01 > 0:14:04so the marble floors here may be too much for her.
0:14:04 > 0:14:08I'm a bit concerned about the steps up to the building,
0:14:08 > 0:14:10for me and the dogs.
0:14:10 > 0:14:11It's a marble staircase.
0:14:11 > 0:14:1315, 20 steps, something like that.
0:14:13 > 0:14:18I'll just go out onto the balcony, it's only a small Juliet balcony,
0:14:18 > 0:14:19as you can probably see.
0:14:19 > 0:14:22There's no room to sit out on this balcony.
0:14:22 > 0:14:23I'm just thinking there's no
0:14:23 > 0:14:26communal garden or anything there.
0:14:26 > 0:14:28I'm just think of letting the dogs out.
0:14:28 > 0:14:31It's more outside space you're looking for, isn't it, really?
0:14:31 > 0:14:35- Yes.- Just us, no problem.
0:14:35 > 0:14:36Two dogs?
0:14:37 > 0:14:39- Think about it.- Yeah, I agree with that.
0:14:39 > 0:14:42OK, look after yourself and walk those dogs.
0:14:42 > 0:14:44- I will.- And pick up after them.
0:14:44 > 0:14:48- You're getting out of it this week! - Yeah.
0:14:48 > 0:14:51It's time for Ali to get the verdict on the first property.
0:14:51 > 0:14:55Well, the other half is a little concerned
0:14:55 > 0:14:58about the no outside space for the dogs,
0:14:58 > 0:15:00and also the marble stairs,
0:15:00 > 0:15:06because one of the dogs doesn't like parquet floors and things like that.
0:15:06 > 0:15:07This part of Spain is designed,
0:15:07 > 0:15:10all the houses are designed for being cool,
0:15:10 > 0:15:11and therefore marble flooring
0:15:11 > 0:15:13and that kind of flooring is the norm.
0:15:13 > 0:15:16But there is a solution to put a rug down.
0:15:16 > 0:15:19You don't have to make up your mind now, we've got other places to see.
0:15:19 > 0:15:23At £680 per month including bills,
0:15:23 > 0:15:25this apartment does give them the location
0:15:25 > 0:15:27close to the beach that they hoped for.
0:15:27 > 0:15:30They liked the traditional side of the decor,
0:15:30 > 0:15:33but the shiny floors and lack of outside space,
0:15:33 > 0:15:35could be a problem if the dogs come as well.
0:15:41 > 0:15:43To make this trip cost neutral,
0:15:43 > 0:15:45Keith and Greer are hoping to rent out
0:15:45 > 0:15:48their self-contained basement flat in Campbeltown.
0:15:49 > 0:15:52However, there isn't a massive rental demand in winter.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54They have rented the flat before to local nurses,
0:15:54 > 0:15:58so it's time to get the word out there to the local nursing home.
0:15:58 > 0:16:02Hello there, I'm just wondering if you have
0:16:02 > 0:16:04any nurses that need accommodation?
0:16:04 > 0:16:08And it's available at the moment if you need us.
0:16:08 > 0:16:11Thank you. Bye.
0:16:11 > 0:16:15What to do with their two dogs is also a very important decision,
0:16:15 > 0:16:17because they don't want to put them in the hold of a plane.
0:16:17 > 0:16:21One option is to drive to Spain and then take the ferry.
0:16:21 > 0:16:24Some companies insist that pets remain in the car
0:16:24 > 0:16:26during the journey, but Greer is looking to see
0:16:26 > 0:16:28if there are any other options.
0:16:28 > 0:16:30They've got 70 pet friendly cabins,
0:16:30 > 0:16:33so it's not looking that bleak, is it?
0:16:35 > 0:16:38Pet friendly cabins on a ferry to Spain would cost
0:16:38 > 0:16:43around £145 each way, and there's a limit to one big dog per cabin.
0:16:43 > 0:16:45Pet travel is very popular,
0:16:45 > 0:16:48and space is limited, so early booking is a must.
0:16:49 > 0:16:51Oh, lots of treats today.
0:16:51 > 0:16:55On top of this, they would need to factor in pet friendly accommodation
0:16:55 > 0:17:00for the drive to Spain, and around £360 in petrol costs.
0:17:01 > 0:17:04If they decide to leave the dogs at home with a pet sitter,
0:17:04 > 0:17:07they'd be looking at around £40 a night plus food costs.
0:17:09 > 0:17:11Meanwhile in Spain, the heat is on
0:17:11 > 0:17:14to find their perfect winter getaway.
0:17:14 > 0:17:18Keith and agent Ali are heading back to one of the most popular resorts
0:17:18 > 0:17:24on the Costa Del Sol, the buzzing cosmopolitan town of Fuengirola.
0:17:24 > 0:17:26Fuengirola is not just a holiday place,
0:17:26 > 0:17:29it's where people live and work, so it is a living city.
0:17:29 > 0:17:33Even though we are past the traditional holiday season,
0:17:33 > 0:17:35there are people around and it's not a ghost town.
0:17:35 > 0:17:37If you want to immerse yourself in Spanish culture, you can.
0:17:38 > 0:17:41Three miles along the coast from Malaga airport,
0:17:41 > 0:17:45Fuengirola is ideal for those jetting in from the UK
0:17:45 > 0:17:46to find that winter sun.
0:17:47 > 0:17:50One of Fuengirola's biggest draws is
0:17:50 > 0:17:53the four-mile long seafront and sandy beach,
0:17:53 > 0:17:55and because the seafront is very flat,
0:17:55 > 0:17:57it's a popular spot for people of all ages,
0:17:57 > 0:18:00keen to embrace the outdoor life.
0:18:00 > 0:18:02No need for waterproof trousers here.
0:18:04 > 0:18:06If fresh fish floats your boat,
0:18:06 > 0:18:08you can enjoy locally caught sardines
0:18:08 > 0:18:10grilled in boats on the beach,
0:18:10 > 0:18:14and even in winter, you can still enjoy an ice cream or two.
0:18:16 > 0:18:19Here we are. We're just coming up to the apartment.
0:18:21 > 0:18:24Just a ten minute drive from the centre of Fuengirola,
0:18:24 > 0:18:26property two is still close to the sea,
0:18:26 > 0:18:30and bars and restaurants are all within walking distance.
0:18:30 > 0:18:31So, here we are.
0:18:33 > 0:18:36Fully furnished in a clean, modern style,
0:18:36 > 0:18:39the open-plan lounge is the perfect place to unwind.
0:18:39 > 0:18:41And there is a compact kitchen,
0:18:41 > 0:18:44if they do want to rustle up a tapas dish or two at home.
0:18:44 > 0:18:45Here you have the kitchen.
0:18:45 > 0:18:47A small kitchen but you've got everything you need.
0:18:47 > 0:18:50- It's a holiday kitchen.- Yeah.
0:18:50 > 0:18:53The second bedroom is a real bonus in this apartment,
0:18:53 > 0:18:55ideal if Keith and Greer have guests to stay.
0:18:55 > 0:18:58While the cosy master bedroom has sliding doors
0:18:58 > 0:19:01to the terrace, for those early morning alfresco coffees.
0:19:01 > 0:19:03The size of that is not too bad.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06Certainly better with the balcony out there as well.
0:19:06 > 0:19:09With the terrace stretching the whole length of the apartment,
0:19:09 > 0:19:12Ali has certainly improved on the small Juliet balcony
0:19:12 > 0:19:14that was a concern at the last property.
0:19:14 > 0:19:17The balcony is certainly nice but the problem is,
0:19:17 > 0:19:20as I can see now, there's a bus going past.
0:19:21 > 0:19:23The central location of this apartment,
0:19:23 > 0:19:26close to amenities was what Keith and Greer were after,
0:19:26 > 0:19:29it's always a really good idea to view properties
0:19:29 > 0:19:31before you sign up for a couple of months.
0:19:31 > 0:19:33People say they want to be in the middle of things,
0:19:33 > 0:19:36but then, actually when we put them in the middle of things,
0:19:36 > 0:19:38you realise, it's too much in the middle of things.
0:19:38 > 0:19:40So, it's actually below your budget.
0:19:40 > 0:19:41It's 545 a month.
0:19:41 > 0:19:43- Right.- At the current exchange rate.
0:19:43 > 0:19:46- OK.- It's plus bills.
0:19:46 > 0:19:48Now that's under their £700 budget,
0:19:48 > 0:19:52but they will have to factor in bills of around £90 a month.
0:19:52 > 0:19:55Keith clearly has reservations about this apartment,
0:19:55 > 0:19:58because the dogs are not welcome here.
0:19:58 > 0:20:00It would only be an option if they decide
0:20:00 > 0:20:01to leave their pooches at home.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04But how will Greer feel about this place?
0:20:05 > 0:20:06Good morning, how are you?
0:20:06 > 0:20:08- Fine, and you?- Fine.
0:20:08 > 0:20:12I'm at the eastern end of Fuengirola,
0:20:12 > 0:20:15which is a nice beach resort.
0:20:15 > 0:20:18I'm in a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment,
0:20:18 > 0:20:22but it's on the third floor, with a lift.
0:20:22 > 0:20:24There's a dining area over here.
0:20:24 > 0:20:26It's a nice enough apartment.
0:20:26 > 0:20:28The kitchen is here.
0:20:28 > 0:20:31Compact. Everything there we need, isn't there?
0:20:31 > 0:20:34Compact is an understatement, yeah.
0:20:34 > 0:20:36OK, so it's really tiny?
0:20:36 > 0:20:38Very tiny, yeah.
0:20:38 > 0:20:42The veranda goes the full length of the apartment,
0:20:42 > 0:20:46with a main road going down right in front of you.
0:20:46 > 0:20:49That's not going to be suitable at all, is it?
0:20:49 > 0:20:51- No.- A pity because it's a nice big balcony,
0:20:51 > 0:20:54but obviously not the ideal situation.
0:20:54 > 0:20:56Outside spaces demand premium,
0:20:56 > 0:21:01so as soon as you've got a large terrace or a large roof terrace,
0:21:01 > 0:21:03you find the prices will start to creep up.
0:21:04 > 0:21:10Although we are at the very nice end of the area,
0:21:10 > 0:21:13the actual apartment is not up my street at all.
0:21:13 > 0:21:16- Yeah, OK.- In fact, it's too close to the street.
0:21:16 > 0:21:18Yes, exactly.
0:21:18 > 0:21:20We'll see what else we come up with, OK?
0:21:20 > 0:21:22- OK.- Bye.- Bye.
0:21:25 > 0:21:26How good or bad did it go?
0:21:26 > 0:21:28Bad, I'm afraid.
0:21:28 > 0:21:32- Oh, OK.- Greer wasn't enamoured with it at all, I don't think.
0:21:32 > 0:21:35I know the balcony is fairly big but again,
0:21:35 > 0:21:38she hated the sound of the road,
0:21:38 > 0:21:41and the proximity of the road to it.
0:21:41 > 0:21:43At least we know what you don't like!
0:21:43 > 0:21:46You certainly know what I don't like from that one.
0:21:46 > 0:21:49Good, we know what you don't like, that's good news.
0:21:49 > 0:21:53This apartment might not be in the top of their list but,
0:21:53 > 0:21:57at £545 a month, excluding bills, it is within their budget.
0:21:57 > 0:21:59They did like the beach-side location
0:21:59 > 0:22:01near to amenities, but the terrace
0:22:01 > 0:22:05was just too close to the road for them and with no pets allowed,
0:22:05 > 0:22:07it would limit their options.
0:22:07 > 0:22:09But Ali still has two more properties to show them,
0:22:09 > 0:22:12so the search to find a winter getaway continues.
0:22:17 > 0:22:21The Costa Del Sol has long been a popular destination for Brits and
0:22:21 > 0:22:25Northern Europeans alike, with an estimated 300,000
0:22:25 > 0:22:27living here permanently.
0:22:27 > 0:22:30An explosion of hotels and apartment blocks means there's
0:22:30 > 0:22:34plenty of choice for finding the right accommodation.
0:22:34 > 0:22:35Here in Fuengirola,
0:22:35 > 0:22:37you can rent a brand-new studio apartment
0:22:37 > 0:22:39close to the beach, for around
0:22:39 > 0:22:41£270 a week in winter,
0:22:41 > 0:22:44compared to 540 in the height of summer.
0:22:46 > 0:22:49But if you want to experience a taste of luxury for less,
0:22:49 > 0:22:51head out of town to this five-bedroom villa.
0:22:51 > 0:22:54With its stunning sea views from the outdoor terrace,
0:22:54 > 0:22:56relaxation is guaranteed.
0:22:58 > 0:23:01It has plenty of areas to dine outside and in.
0:23:01 > 0:23:04You won't struggle for space to entertain, that's for sure.
0:23:04 > 0:23:08The chic open-plan living area is the perfect place
0:23:08 > 0:23:10to unwind after sundown.
0:23:10 > 0:23:14And at sunrise, you can even waken up to sea views from the bedroom.
0:23:15 > 0:23:18It's available to rent in the summer
0:23:18 > 0:23:20for £3,670 a week, but in the winter,
0:23:20 > 0:23:24you could pick this up for £2,040 a week.
0:23:25 > 0:23:28Or if you want the height of luxury,
0:23:28 > 0:23:31head along the coast to the chic resort of Marbella.
0:23:31 > 0:23:33Here you can live it up in this stylish six-bedroom villa.
0:23:35 > 0:23:38Complete with a fully fitted outdoor kitchen and grill,
0:23:38 > 0:23:42you can cook and dine alfresco, and to make life easy inside,
0:23:42 > 0:23:45the sleek modern kitchen is kitted out with
0:23:45 > 0:23:46all the high-end appliances.
0:23:48 > 0:23:50All the bedrooms are en-suite,
0:23:50 > 0:23:54and the super king-size master leads to a spacious balcony.
0:23:54 > 0:23:59Available to rent in the high season for £12,950 a week,
0:23:59 > 0:24:03it's reduced to £8,125 a week in the low season,
0:24:03 > 0:24:07and for that, you even get your very own cinema room,
0:24:07 > 0:24:10perfect if you get a cooler night.
0:24:14 > 0:24:17It's early morning in Fuengirola and the cafe's already busy.
0:24:21 > 0:24:23Keith is hoping to get a taste of the local life,
0:24:23 > 0:24:26and has taken Ali's advice to immerse himself
0:24:26 > 0:24:27in the Spanish culture.
0:24:28 > 0:24:31- I'm Keith, could I make some churros?- Of course.
0:24:31 > 0:24:32Lovely, I look forward to it.
0:24:32 > 0:24:36Churros are a traditional hot doughnut-like snack,
0:24:36 > 0:24:39served sprinkled with sugar or dipped in chocolate.
0:24:41 > 0:24:44Universally adored in Spain, churros unite people
0:24:44 > 0:24:47from every walk in life.
0:24:47 > 0:24:49In at the deep end, Keith will try to
0:24:49 > 0:24:52make his own churro after a demo from the expert.
0:24:52 > 0:24:54Piece of cake, piece of cake!
0:24:54 > 0:24:57Keep spinning it round and round and round, yeah.
0:24:58 > 0:25:02The dough is piped into very hot oil, and turned to make a wheel.
0:25:02 > 0:25:06It's flipped over and then cooked until golden brown.
0:25:06 > 0:25:09I think you've done this before, yeah?
0:25:09 > 0:25:13Then pick it up like that and across, shake the fat off, yeah.
0:25:15 > 0:25:17Easy! Now it's my turn.
0:25:17 > 0:25:19This should be funny.
0:25:21 > 0:25:22Here we go, here we go.
0:25:22 > 0:25:25HE SPEAKS SPANISH
0:25:25 > 0:25:29Oh! Oops.
0:25:31 > 0:25:34- Ay, ay, ay.- Ay, ay, ay!
0:25:37 > 0:25:39Cross it over, yeah? Yeah, yeah, yeah.
0:25:41 > 0:25:42Easy.
0:25:44 > 0:25:45Oh!
0:25:47 > 0:25:50- Yay!- Yay!
0:25:50 > 0:25:51Thank you, thank you.
0:25:55 > 0:25:57Uno.
0:25:57 > 0:25:58Uno.
0:26:00 > 0:26:04Two-handed. The next lucky person, it's all yours.
0:26:04 > 0:26:05It's the best he's ever tasted!
0:26:07 > 0:26:08Expert.
0:26:13 > 0:26:14Grazie.
0:26:15 > 0:26:18Oh, dear, I'm covered in batter!
0:26:21 > 0:26:23Our Keith has certainly got stuck in,
0:26:23 > 0:26:25but how does his first handmade churros taste?
0:26:27 > 0:26:29I think it might be slightly overcooked,
0:26:29 > 0:26:33but we mustn't grumble. It's very pleasant.
0:26:33 > 0:26:37And sitting in the sun eating it is very nice, yeah.
0:26:37 > 0:26:39A good cook?
0:26:39 > 0:26:41HE SPEAKS SPANISH
0:26:44 > 0:26:45Do you want some?
0:26:47 > 0:26:49With approval from a local, it's job done.
0:26:52 > 0:26:56Keith may have hit the sweet spot with his churros,
0:26:56 > 0:26:58but he's still on the hunt for a winter rental.
0:26:59 > 0:27:02So he and Ali are on their way to property three,
0:27:02 > 0:27:05and there's a treat in store for golf-loving Keith.
0:27:05 > 0:27:06We're going to Mijas golf.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09Sounds good.
0:27:09 > 0:27:12This property is in the middle of the golf course.
0:27:12 > 0:27:15Do you think Greer is going to mind you being so close to a golf course?
0:27:17 > 0:27:19That's a definite possibility, I would think.
0:27:20 > 0:27:23The golf resort is situated in the Valley of Mijas,
0:27:23 > 0:27:26just four miles inland from Fuengirola.
0:27:26 > 0:27:28The complex is two 18 hole golf courses,
0:27:28 > 0:27:31which should keep Keith very happy.
0:27:31 > 0:27:34But it's not just for golfers because there is a selection of bars
0:27:34 > 0:27:38and restaurants within walking distance of the accommodation.
0:27:38 > 0:27:41It's still only a 15-minute drive to the beach.
0:27:41 > 0:27:42What's behind the property,
0:27:42 > 0:27:44you only have to go around 500 metres,
0:27:44 > 0:27:46and you're in the countryside, so it's great
0:27:46 > 0:27:48for walking dogs and things like that.
0:27:48 > 0:27:52That sounds good. This recently renovated two-bed apartment
0:27:52 > 0:27:54commands a prime position in the complex.
0:27:57 > 0:28:00- The swimming pool is just down there.- Oh, right.- One of four.
0:28:00 > 0:28:02- One of four?- Right, OK.
0:28:02 > 0:28:04This is your apartment.
0:28:04 > 0:28:05- It's a top floor.- Top floor?
0:28:05 > 0:28:09And no lifts, but trust me, it's worth going up there, OK?
0:28:09 > 0:28:12There might be 31 terracotta steps to the apartment,
0:28:12 > 0:28:15but the reward for reaching the top is great.
0:28:16 > 0:28:19The complex is perfect, it really is nice.
0:28:19 > 0:28:24Typical Spanish style and it really is impressive so far.
0:28:24 > 0:28:25Inside, it gets even better,
0:28:25 > 0:28:29with a fabulous open-plan living room that leads out
0:28:29 > 0:28:31onto a balcony with stunning views.
0:28:31 > 0:28:34I can tell you immediately my wife will love this.
0:28:34 > 0:28:37- Great.- Apart from the 31 steps, she will love this.
0:28:39 > 0:28:43- Magnificent.- Greer will also love the two bathrooms.
0:28:43 > 0:28:46It's nice to have a easy walk-in shower and also a bath as well.
0:28:46 > 0:28:48That's very good.
0:28:48 > 0:28:52Juliet balcony again overlooking the summing pool and the golf course.
0:28:52 > 0:28:54Yes, it's lovely views.
0:28:54 > 0:28:56And it doesn't end there.
0:28:56 > 0:28:58- Two bedrooms.- Two bedrooms.
0:28:58 > 0:29:00That is very impressive, very nice.
0:29:00 > 0:29:03This is definitely Greer's style and my style.
0:29:03 > 0:29:06You couldn't ask for much better than this, it really is smart.
0:29:06 > 0:29:09- We're almost there.- Almost there.
0:29:09 > 0:29:12The magnificent outlook from the balcony could just seal the deal.
0:29:13 > 0:29:16- Look at the view.- Magnificent. - The castle,
0:29:16 > 0:29:20the golf course, and the swimming pool and on top of that,
0:29:20 > 0:29:23- you have the roof terrace. - A roof terrace as well?
0:29:23 > 0:29:25With the exclusive use of this terrace,
0:29:25 > 0:29:28it certainly is looking like the perfect winter getaway.
0:29:28 > 0:29:32You can bring an extra bottle of wine up here and watch the sunset.
0:29:32 > 0:29:34Watch the sun go down, beautiful.
0:29:34 > 0:29:35Beautiful. Couldn't be better.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38We have spoken about the dogs and they are OK with it,
0:29:38 > 0:29:40they just want extra money for cleaning at the end.
0:29:40 > 0:29:42Right, OK, yeah, yeah.
0:29:42 > 0:29:46The only problem I have is how on earth is it going to be within the
0:29:46 > 0:29:48budget that we've set to you?
0:29:48 > 0:29:50The price for renting here is £727.
0:29:50 > 0:29:51- Right.- OK?- For a month?
0:29:51 > 0:29:54For a month, yeah. And that includes everything.
0:29:54 > 0:29:58The apartment is nice, so for that extra bit of money,
0:29:58 > 0:29:59I don't think it's a deal-breaker.
0:29:59 > 0:30:02You've got one other bonus...
0:30:02 > 0:30:05- I live just down there.- So if it all goes belly up, you're to blame!
0:30:05 > 0:30:08Yeah, you can come and see me, you don't even have to phone,
0:30:08 > 0:30:09- you can shout!- I can shout.
0:30:09 > 0:30:11- Ali, come on!- That's right, yeah.
0:30:11 > 0:30:14Looks as if there's only one person left to convince.
0:30:14 > 0:30:16I'm looking forward to showing you this one.
0:30:16 > 0:30:18You might like it.
0:30:18 > 0:30:19We'll see how we go.
0:30:19 > 0:30:22That sounds more promising.
0:30:22 > 0:30:26Unfortunately, there's 31 stairs up to the apartment.
0:30:26 > 0:30:29They're not marble steps, they're terracotta steps.
0:30:29 > 0:30:31It shouldn't be a problem for you.
0:30:31 > 0:30:33I did suggest putting a bottle of red wine
0:30:33 > 0:30:36at the top of the steps so you could run up there to it, you know.
0:30:36 > 0:30:39It's not me I'm worried about, it's the dogs.
0:30:39 > 0:30:43- Yes, yes.- It's so rare we get something available here,
0:30:43 > 0:30:45that I thought it was worth seeing it,
0:30:45 > 0:30:48because the property is so beautiful and the views are so great.
0:30:48 > 0:30:51I think we've got at least one maybe, or definitely maybe.
0:30:51 > 0:30:53This is the main bedroom,
0:30:53 > 0:31:00and a Juliet balcony overlooking one of four swimming pools.
0:31:00 > 0:31:01Gosh!
0:31:02 > 0:31:05Very good so far, I like it.
0:31:05 > 0:31:07You might like the views from here.
0:31:07 > 0:31:09It's lovely, Keith.
0:31:09 > 0:31:13I can see myself sitting on that terrace with a glass of red wine.
0:31:13 > 0:31:16Yeah, I'm sure you can!
0:31:16 > 0:31:19Do you think it will work out all right for the dogs?
0:31:19 > 0:31:22Well, I would think so, apart from all the steps,
0:31:22 > 0:31:25but I think they should manage those, because they're not marble,
0:31:25 > 0:31:29it's terracotta. The balcony's all enclosed with metal railings,
0:31:29 > 0:31:31so I can't see that's a problem.
0:31:31 > 0:31:34And just in case Greer needs any more persuasion...
0:31:34 > 0:31:36Up to a roof terrace.
0:31:36 > 0:31:39I think it's lovely, really lovely.
0:31:39 > 0:31:43Would you be happy to go slightly over budget for this sort of thing?
0:31:43 > 0:31:46Yes, if it's what we, you know, if it's going to suit us better,
0:31:46 > 0:31:47which it does.
0:31:47 > 0:31:51I'll be amazed if we can find anything better than this.
0:31:51 > 0:31:53- OK.- We'll see you later.
0:31:53 > 0:31:57- Bye.- Did she like it?
0:31:57 > 0:32:00Yeah, she loved it. The only thing is the steps, of course.
0:32:00 > 0:32:02You don't go and down them 20 times a day,
0:32:02 > 0:32:05so I don't think that's a problem.
0:32:05 > 0:32:07There seemed to be quite a lot of steps,
0:32:07 > 0:32:10but at least they're terracotta,
0:32:10 > 0:32:11and not anything slippery,
0:32:11 > 0:32:13so they should be fine.
0:32:13 > 0:32:16With or without the animals, this would be a first choice...
0:32:16 > 0:32:18- Great.- ..from what I've seen so far.
0:32:18 > 0:32:19Slightly over budget,
0:32:19 > 0:32:23but I think when you think about what you're getting for that budget,
0:32:23 > 0:32:25that it's worth those few extra pounds.
0:32:25 > 0:32:28That's all really positive, that's great.
0:32:28 > 0:32:29- Yep.- A sigh of relief here from me.
0:32:29 > 0:32:32We'll see what else you come up with in the meantime.
0:32:32 > 0:32:35Yeah, I will see if I can beat this one and make it another one.
0:32:35 > 0:32:36Let's see whether we can make it difficult
0:32:36 > 0:32:39- for you to make a decision. - Very much so.- OK.
0:32:39 > 0:32:41Ali certainly likes a challenge
0:32:41 > 0:32:44to find Keith and Greer their perfect winter home.
0:32:44 > 0:32:49Now, available to rent for £727 a month, including the bills,
0:32:49 > 0:32:53there's a one-off cleaning charge of £150 if they bring the dogs.
0:32:53 > 0:32:55They loved the style of the apartment
0:32:55 > 0:32:58and the stunning views from the balcony,
0:32:58 > 0:33:01but the 31 steps to the top are a potential problem.
0:33:05 > 0:33:07If Keith and Greer do decide to
0:33:07 > 0:33:09bring their two dogs to the Costa Del Sol,
0:33:09 > 0:33:11they'll be in good company.
0:33:11 > 0:33:14There are plenty of beach-front promenades to take a walk,
0:33:14 > 0:33:17and in the winter, dogs can even get the sand between their paws,
0:33:17 > 0:33:22as some of the beaches in the area are dog friendly in the low season.
0:33:22 > 0:33:24Some ban dogs all year round,
0:33:24 > 0:33:27so taking your dog on a beach where they're not permitted,
0:33:27 > 0:33:30even if they are on a lead, may result in a heavy fine,
0:33:30 > 0:33:33so advice is - check it out first.
0:33:33 > 0:33:37Owners must remember to carry their pet's passport and documentation,
0:33:37 > 0:33:40as the authorities may carry out random checks.
0:33:40 > 0:33:41You should also clean up after them,
0:33:41 > 0:33:44and some larger breeds may have to be muzzled,
0:33:44 > 0:33:46particularly on public transport.
0:33:46 > 0:33:48If you want to take your dog with you while you dine,
0:33:48 > 0:33:50you will find that most restaurant staff
0:33:50 > 0:33:54will be accommodating at outdoor cafes and bars,
0:33:54 > 0:33:56but don't expect to be able to go indoors,
0:33:56 > 0:33:57because this is not allowed.
0:33:59 > 0:34:02The search for Keith and Greer's winter rental is going well.
0:34:02 > 0:34:06Ali scored a hole in one at the last property on the golf course,
0:34:06 > 0:34:08but has one final trick up his sleeve.
0:34:08 > 0:34:12We're going to go somewhere a little bit different, a bit further out.
0:34:12 > 0:34:16- We're going to Estepona.- The popular resort of Estepona is famed for its
0:34:16 > 0:34:20beaches, which stretch 13 miles along the coast.
0:34:21 > 0:34:24Estepona lies 40 miles south-west of Fuengirola,
0:34:24 > 0:34:26and due to its natural environment,
0:34:26 > 0:34:29surrounded by the sea and mountains,
0:34:29 > 0:34:33it has a microclimate with over 325 days of sunshine a year.
0:34:35 > 0:34:39Estepona is one of the coastal towns that has maintained
0:34:39 > 0:34:41its charm and character,
0:34:41 > 0:34:45so it's a great place to find some peace away from the busier resorts.
0:34:45 > 0:34:48In the old town, the steep, narrow streets
0:34:48 > 0:34:51are pedestrianised, and the charming cafes and tapas bars
0:34:51 > 0:34:54still serve traditional Spanish delicacies.
0:34:54 > 0:34:57And if seafood is your thing, head down to the marina,
0:34:57 > 0:35:01where you can watch the world sail by from the outdoor restaurants and
0:35:01 > 0:35:06bars, but don't forget your fishing rod, if you want to catch your own!
0:35:06 > 0:35:10The units we are going to see, it's only 80 metres from the beach.
0:35:10 > 0:35:14- Oh, that's good.- It's only 800 metres away from the marina,
0:35:14 > 0:35:18so I'm quietly confident that you will like this.
0:35:18 > 0:35:22- Good, OK.- Well, let's see what happens.- Yeah.
0:35:22 > 0:35:24One thing for sure is that the central location
0:35:24 > 0:35:28of the final property is exactly what they've asked for.
0:35:28 > 0:35:30The sea and the beach is just across the road there.
0:35:30 > 0:35:31Yeah, I can see that, yeah.
0:35:31 > 0:35:34- And we've got the house just to our left here.- OK.
0:35:34 > 0:35:35Surrounded by beautiful gardens,
0:35:35 > 0:35:38this one-bedroom apartment is dog friendly as well.
0:35:39 > 0:35:41- So, here we go.- So this is the property.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44- This is the property here.- OK.
0:35:44 > 0:35:47This apartment has been recently renovated,
0:35:47 > 0:35:50with just a few finishing touches to go.
0:35:50 > 0:35:54- Everything's new.- Everything is new, nothing's been used.
0:35:54 > 0:35:57It's certainly adequate for the two of us, no doubt about that.
0:35:57 > 0:35:58Even the bed is new,
0:35:58 > 0:36:01and the bedroom being on the mezzanine level
0:36:01 > 0:36:02makes great use of space.
0:36:02 > 0:36:04Good design feature.
0:36:04 > 0:36:05Yeah. So the banister will be...
0:36:05 > 0:36:07Will be up here. And it will be glass.
0:36:07 > 0:36:11That's all going to be glass, and across the mezzanine, yes?
0:36:11 > 0:36:13And across there, again, to maximise the light.
0:36:13 > 0:36:16Yeah. And I think when the banisters are up and everything,
0:36:16 > 0:36:17it will look quite homely.
0:36:17 > 0:36:21It's... Yeah, I'm reasonably impressed so far.
0:36:21 > 0:36:23- Good, good.- First impressions are good,
0:36:23 > 0:36:25but will the stairs be a stumbling block?
0:36:25 > 0:36:28Do you think the dogs will cope with this?
0:36:28 > 0:36:30Well, they wouldn't come up here at all.
0:36:30 > 0:36:32- No.- But they'd be quite happy down there,
0:36:32 > 0:36:35as long as they don't snore too much, we'll be fine!
0:36:35 > 0:36:36There's plenty of room on the terrace
0:36:36 > 0:36:38for the dogs to lie in the sun.
0:36:39 > 0:36:41- A sun trap.- A real sun trap.- Yeah.
0:36:41 > 0:36:44You've got the sea and you can see Gibraltar from here.
0:36:44 > 0:36:45Oh, yeah, Gibraltar over there.
0:36:45 > 0:36:49There's a nice bit of garden out the front here for the dogs, as well.
0:36:49 > 0:36:51- Yeah.- I'll be interested to know what the price is.
0:36:51 > 0:36:54It's £636 per month.
0:36:54 > 0:36:56- Right.- Including the bills.
0:36:56 > 0:36:58- Right.- But for the dogs,
0:36:58 > 0:37:02they want 150 euros addition for the cleaning at the end.
0:37:02 > 0:37:04Right, well that's good.
0:37:04 > 0:37:06We'll see whether Greer feels the same.
0:37:09 > 0:37:13Everything is brand-new, nobody's ever been in here before, OK?
0:37:13 > 0:37:15- OK.- What do you think about the kitchen?
0:37:15 > 0:37:17Yeah, it looks very nice.
0:37:17 > 0:37:20The floor's all new, it's wooden flooring.
0:37:20 > 0:37:23I don't think the dogs would slip on it, quite honestly.
0:37:23 > 0:37:24Certainly Kayleigh wouldn't.
0:37:24 > 0:37:27It's quite unusual, the setup there,
0:37:27 > 0:37:29quite a nice idea, I think,
0:37:29 > 0:37:32having that mezzanine area and not many steps up and down.
0:37:32 > 0:37:34Not bothered about that.
0:37:34 > 0:37:36It looks all right, it looks good.
0:37:36 > 0:37:39There's always a challenge when we come somewhere that's not complete.
0:37:39 > 0:37:42I was a bit concerned, but Keith seems to be able
0:37:42 > 0:37:44to see the potential and saying, "Actually yeah,
0:37:44 > 0:37:46"when it's finished, it's going to look really nice."
0:37:46 > 0:37:51Nobody's slept on this bed, and it's a memory foam bed.
0:37:51 > 0:37:52It'll even take your weight.
0:37:52 > 0:37:54Cheeky so-and-so, you wait till you get home!
0:37:57 > 0:37:59And we're out, I'm now out on the terrace.
0:37:59 > 0:38:01- You would love it.- I know.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04Lying out here with a bottle of Pinot Grigio.
0:38:04 > 0:38:09It's five or six steps into the building from the front door,
0:38:09 > 0:38:11but I don't see that as a problem.
0:38:11 > 0:38:12Do you think that one's a contender?
0:38:12 > 0:38:15Out of other ones we've seen,
0:38:15 > 0:38:17I think it could be a contender, certainly.
0:38:17 > 0:38:22- So I'll say goodbye and hopefully see you very soon.- Bye.
0:38:24 > 0:38:28Greer liked the layout of the place completely.
0:38:28 > 0:38:30It was suitable for the dogs.
0:38:30 > 0:38:33So she appreciated everything here.
0:38:33 > 0:38:34- Ticks all the boxes.- Yes.
0:38:34 > 0:38:38- Ideal.- It's just going to discuss with the boss.
0:38:38 > 0:38:40- Absolutely.- What the wraparound is.
0:38:40 > 0:38:42The boss is very much the boss.
0:38:42 > 0:38:46- OK.- Although she says I am, I have to listen to her a great deal.
0:38:46 > 0:38:49Absolutely, so let's go and have a chat.
0:38:50 > 0:38:54This apartment is available to rent for £636 a month,
0:38:54 > 0:38:56including the bills.
0:38:56 > 0:38:59There would be an additional one-off charge for cleaning,
0:38:59 > 0:39:00if they bring the dogs.
0:39:02 > 0:39:05It has the space they want and the recent renovation was a hit.
0:39:05 > 0:39:08They love the sun terrace with surrounding gardens
0:39:08 > 0:39:10for the dogs to walk in, and with no negatives,
0:39:10 > 0:39:12could this be their new winter home?
0:39:21 > 0:39:23Keith's time with Ali in the Fuengirola area
0:39:23 > 0:39:27has certainly given both him and Greer a great idea of the life
0:39:27 > 0:39:29they could be living if they decide to take the plunge
0:39:29 > 0:39:31and get away for winter.
0:39:32 > 0:39:34- Hi, Greer, how're you doing? - Hello, Ali.
0:39:34 > 0:39:36That's the end of the journey now, OK.
0:39:36 > 0:39:38Keith will return home to Scotland tomorrow
0:39:38 > 0:39:40to talk things through with Greer
0:39:40 > 0:39:42and decide if any of the properties will suit,
0:39:42 > 0:39:45and if there is a way to bring the dogs, too.
0:39:45 > 0:39:47We've seen four properties now.
0:39:49 > 0:39:53Two, to my mind, were very pleasant.
0:39:53 > 0:39:56One less, and one a complete no-no.
0:39:56 > 0:39:58And you share that sentiment as well?
0:39:58 > 0:40:00I do indeed, yes.
0:40:00 > 0:40:02- You are happy to be in either of them?- Yes. Yes, absolutely.
0:40:02 > 0:40:06So one or the other is the right solution for you guys?
0:40:06 > 0:40:10Oh, absolutely. We'll chat about it when I get back to the UK,
0:40:10 > 0:40:12if I can stand much more sun.
0:40:13 > 0:40:16But I've appreciated everything you've done for us.
0:40:16 > 0:40:18I would just like to thank you,
0:40:18 > 0:40:21for showing us round these properties.
0:40:21 > 0:40:23- Here is to you.- Cheers, Greer.
0:40:23 > 0:40:24Thank you.
0:40:33 > 0:40:35Keith and Greer wanted to get away from
0:40:35 > 0:40:38the cold wet weather in Campbeltown.
0:40:38 > 0:40:41You have to put a woolly hat on, waterproof trousers,
0:40:41 > 0:40:44waterproof shoes, a big thick coat.
0:40:45 > 0:40:49With Greer staying behind in the rain, Keith jetted off to Spain.
0:40:50 > 0:40:53I'm looking forward to seeing a variety of places.
0:40:53 > 0:40:55At the first property in Torremolinos,
0:40:55 > 0:40:58they were taken with the traditional Spanish style.
0:40:58 > 0:41:03It's a nice, compact little apartment, yes, very, very pleasant.
0:41:03 > 0:41:05But the lack of outside space was a problem.
0:41:05 > 0:41:07There's no room to sit out on this balcony.
0:41:07 > 0:41:11There's no, like, communal garden or anything there?
0:41:11 > 0:41:14The modern two bed apartment close to the beach in Fuengirola
0:41:14 > 0:41:16didn't float their boat at all.
0:41:16 > 0:41:18Compact is an understatement.
0:41:18 > 0:41:21- That's not going to be suitable at all, is it?- No.
0:41:21 > 0:41:24But Ali scored a hole in one at the third property
0:41:24 > 0:41:26on the golf course, for both Keith and Greer.
0:41:26 > 0:41:29- I can tell you immediately my wife will love this.- Great!
0:41:29 > 0:41:33Keith and Greer were also impressed with the newly renovated
0:41:33 > 0:41:34apartment in Estepona.
0:41:34 > 0:41:37I think it could be a contender, certainly.
0:41:37 > 0:41:40The sun terrace and surrounding gardens were also a hit.
0:41:40 > 0:41:42- You would love it.- I know.
0:41:42 > 0:41:45With each property, Keith and Greer have learned more about what's
0:41:45 > 0:41:47involved in renting abroad.
0:41:50 > 0:41:51The question is, though,
0:41:51 > 0:41:54have they taken the plunge and escaped to Spain for the winter?
0:41:56 > 0:41:57We're still here in Campbeltown.
0:41:57 > 0:41:59We didn't get away from the winter.
0:41:59 > 0:42:00Well, unfortunately,
0:42:00 > 0:42:04Greer is still waiting for a date for her operation on her foot
0:42:04 > 0:42:06and it's not going to be as soon as they hoped.
0:42:06 > 0:42:09We've just been told that there could be a delay
0:42:09 > 0:42:12of between 6-9 months for her operation,
0:42:12 > 0:42:18so that's the big problem for not being able to get away this winter.
0:42:18 > 0:42:20So it's likely to be next winter,
0:42:20 > 0:42:22rather than this winter.
0:42:22 > 0:42:24The delay could be a blessing in disguise,
0:42:24 > 0:42:26because it will give them more time to decide
0:42:26 > 0:42:29what they want to do with their two dogs,
0:42:29 > 0:42:31when they eventually head to the sun.
0:42:31 > 0:42:33The time spent in seeing all the properties
0:42:33 > 0:42:36- has certainly whetted their appetite.- Ali was great.
0:42:36 > 0:42:40I mean, he showed us a variety of properties.
0:42:40 > 0:42:43Their top two choices were the Mijas golf apartment,
0:42:43 > 0:42:45with its stunning views from the balcony,
0:42:45 > 0:42:50and the newly renovated property with sun terrace in Estepona.
0:42:50 > 0:42:53We could see what we could get for our money, basically.
0:42:53 > 0:42:56So from the point of view of going out there and looking at things,
0:42:56 > 0:42:58it was really worthwhile.
0:42:58 > 0:43:02So now it's only a matter of time before they get away for the winter.
0:43:02 > 0:43:05It's goodbye from me and it's goodbye from her.
0:43:05 > 0:43:06Goodbye!