Spuddonthemove

Hi all, in the next few months I want to relocate to Spain to be with my girlfriend. I had hoped she would relocate to Ireland but our lovely Irish weather killed that idea. I am currently trying to learn the language but progress is slow, I know that would make finding a good job difficult. My girlfriend and I want a business of our own so the only option I can see is leasing a little bar/cafe. I would love to hear from anyone with advice or experience of this as I am a little lost in all the details. But please, if your advice is don't!!! I respect your opinion but I'm only looking for constructive advice. Thanks to all for any help you can give

Pulaski

Do you have any experience managing a bar or café, or in the hospitality business?

Spuddonthemove

I don't have any experience of bar work but my girlfriend has experience in this area. I currently work for an engineering business and although it's a different field, I have experience with ordering and dealing with suppliers as well as managing staff. This would be a big change, and a challenge...I know that, but we are determined to make it work for us...so that we can be together.

dmu

Hi, and welcome to the forum!
You'd do better to post in the Spain forum where there are plenty of folk who'll give realistic advice on your plans. Expats who've successfully run a bar/café business in Spain aren't forthcoming with advice on the forum....
Is your girlfriend Spanish? in which case she'll be aware of the employment situation in Spain. If Spain is as "partner-unfriendly" as France, you might do well to consider getting married. Boring things like health insurance, taxes, etc... aren't straightforward if you're two single individuals.
HTH a little, but those on the spot will advise better!

Spuddonthemove

Thanks for your advice, I will do that

Moses2013

Based in Ireland myself and actually gorgeous outside today:-). I take it your girlfriend is Spanish, so will know all the regulations and challenges of running a business in Spain?
Like anywhere it's all about location and what makes you stand out from all the others? I know a lot of Spanish here in Ireland and while many might miss their country (others don't), the majority hate the work life balance (especially wages) in Spain and would only move when they are retired, or are mortgage free and don't really have to rely on a job. There's a reason why so many move to Ireland, UK, Germany and Northern European countries, even if the winters might feel longer (depending where you're from in Spain ). Life is pretty good for us here around Galway to be honest (job opportunities & work/life balance, low mortgage) and the money we were able to save allowed us to buy some land in Spain, but we have no plans to move there permanently. We're all different but if people complain about regulations and taxes here I have to laugh, because Spain is a complete different level and it remains a retirement country. If you speak another language, or have specific skills others don't have, you might be able to secure work in cities like Madrid, Barcelona but how many more bars/cafes does Spain need?

Spuddonthemove

I thank you for your advice, my girlfriend is actually from Argentina but lives and works in Barcelona. I know moving there is going to be a challenge, but it's either Spain or Buenos Aires...the boss has made that very clear haha

Moses2013

Well at least in Barcelona there are many call center jobs. Pay won't be great but might be something to start but If you are in engineering maybe there are other better paid opportunities.
Unfortunately the rental situation is just as bad there but again just depends what you are used to.

dmu

How long has she been in Spain? Long enough to have checked on the feasibility of opening a successful bar/café? And understanding all the laws/rules/regulations on setting up and running one? Do post in the Spain forum, none of us who have replied live in Spain!!

Moses2013

Few live in Catalonia either + most are retired and don't need to work

bob_bob

Go to Spain and see how many bars are up for sale. If, and its a big if you manage to get a bar that stays afloat do you fancy working a 15-18 day?