Feliz Navidad. Written for the expatriate community via The Resident.

The difficulties experienced by the non Spanish communities when trying to talk to the Spanish service providers is evident. Long term residents who speak the  Spanish language still have to struggle when dealing with the bureaucracy or some other entity with an issue that should be quite simple, like communicating with the water or electric board or the telephone companies. Firstly you try by phone. If you are lucky and persist that means not put the phone down after 20 minutes and add to that the cost of almost the same figure in euro. Not enough that you find that you have been overcharged on your latest bill but to have to use an expensive phone line to try to communicate that to somebody. Be careful asking for an operator who speaks English. If you are fortunate, twenty more expensive minutes later and you could hear an engaged tone. This is frustrating when you have just explained the problem for the third time to someone who does speak your language. Try getting back to that person. You have more chance of winning the lottery. If you do get through, have at least some knowledge of uno dos tres and up the fourteen in Spanish, depending on the department you think you may need to assist you. One presumes that you have given up when you drag yourself out to visit the relevant office. Take a flask and a folding chair. If you are wondering why various locals who entered fifteen minutes later than you, steps up to the counter just when you thought, after patiently tapping your foot that at last it was your turn. This is easily explained. They were in earlier, claimed his or her place in the queue and then went off to have a coffee or do some shopping to return just in time to reclaim their position ignoring the ever growing line of people. Be prepared, whichever service provider you are dealing with and whatever the problem, it will always be your fault. I am told by a Spaniard that it is pride that prohibits a Spaniard from saying “sorry our mistake” Ever heard that expression here? When you do get to the counter and the person serving you is somewhat a little grumpy because it’s now lunch time. Stand your ground. If you falter due to nerves and the poor knowledge of the language, you are lost. You will be sent off with a plethora of excuses. You know the standard ones. “No not this department or you need your NIE, passport, birth certificate, padron or nota simple and don’t forget whatever age you are, your parents names” If the strain takes over and you forget that your dear mum was called Agnes, make up a name. Then as you attempt your best Spanish, it slowly dawns on the nice person behind the counter that you are going to be hard work. Look out for the slow but obvious changing facial expressions and the straining as if you cannot be heard. You may be tempted to look behind you to see what smell has entered this space but the truth of the matter is that the person you are trying to communicate with does not have the slightest idea what you are trying to say. Taking your Spanish phrase book with you will only mean that you will be out of the door quicker. It will be immediate proof that this appointment will take some time. As Christmas is upon us, I would like to end on an optimistic note. If your phone packs up, electric supply cuts off or you have no water. You will not have to face any of the abovementioned problems as during the festive season most service providers will be shut or on the anise. Feliz Navidad.

About Andalucia. Land of Contrasts

With more than 150 kilometres of golden beaches bathed by a blue and inviting Mediterranean, where the sun shines practically all the year round. The Costa del Sol is truly a jewel on the eastern coastline of a culture filled Andalusia.

This perfect micro climate  the relaxed atmosphere, the warmth and joíe de vivre of the locals has made this extraordinary part of Spain a most desirable and sought after place to live and invest. With the close proximity to most European capitals, it's not surprising that this paradise has been named the California of Europe.

The colonization of many ancient civilizations such as the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and almost eight hundred years of Moorish rule has left its legacy on its culture, examples of this can be seen on the beautiful architectural designs of the regions many monuments and palaces. These are influenced mainly by the Moorish and Renaissance styles. The Traditional Roman interior patios are filled with the aroma of sweet scented jasmine and the vibrant coloured bougainvillea.

Nature has endowed this part of Spain with a magnificent and impressive range of mountains, the Sierra's, allowing a special kind of rural tourism. Europe’s most southwest championship ski resorts and the Iberian Peninsula’s highest summit is only two hours drive from the Costa’s sunny beaches. Sheltered harbours and a calm Mediterranean Sea has allowed for various water sport activities and is a favourite place for sailing. Fishing is a very popular sport and most ports provide exciting fishing trips. Andalusia is steeped in Equestrian tradition, Spanish horses are believed to be the oldest breed of saddle horse in the world, and have been widely used as stock for today's sports breed. It is therefore not surprising that this area has been recognised as a polo favourite, add to this the Costa Del Sol professional race course, equestrian events, trekking and dressage exhibitions and there is something for all the family.

Costa Del Golf has become a catch phrase. The coast boasts numerous top quality courses with clubs such as Sotogrande hosting International championships. Many selective and prestigious properties can be found in the natural settings of these magnificent clubs.
Spain is famous for its nightlife. You can dine in the ambiance of a traditional Spanish patio, listen to the evocative flamenco guitar and watch a show, dance into the early hours, and walk along beautifully lit promenades, stopping at various bars to sample the vast range of the local tapas served with the regions best wines or just stroll along the beach at sunset.

Spain is notably a country with traditions of catering for its children, providing them with a safe and secure environment. There are many activities such as water parks, nature reserves and numerous children's playgrounds, not to mention the local fiestas and ferias. Children are welcome to join in on all aspects of local life. Due to the increase of foreign residents there are many International top grade schools and many friendly local schools