Staff Reporter
Living abroad brings plenty of change, from the language and culture to daily routines, but for many British expats in Spain, staying connected to home remains a steady priority. The sunshine, good food and slower pace of life are certainly appealing, yet there’s often a quiet pull towards the things people know best. It’s not always about the big things. Sometimes it’s as simple as hearing a familiar accent, catching up with British TV, checking the latest football scores or having a quick chat with mates back in the UK. These habits help keep that sense of identity alive, offering comfort and continuity while adjusting to life under sunnier skies.
One habit that hasn’t faded for some is the pull of pastimes from home, especially online entertainment and gaming. While Spanish life has its own appeal, certain platforms still hold more trust or enjoyment. For many British expats, the appeal of recognisable routines has led them to UK non GamStop casinos 2025. These platforms offer games that people were used to playing before moving abroad. GamStop, the UK’s self-exclusion scheme, does serve a real purpose for those looking to take a break or limit access. For expats who don’t feel they need those limits, non-GamStop options have become a straightforward way to enjoy familiar games from a distance.
Connection to the UK also remains strong through sport. Whether it’s Premier League matches or Six Nations rugby, expats are still deeply invested. Local pubs and sports bars often show the games, while others stream them at home using UK services or VPNs. It’s not just about watching the match, it’s about sharing a moment with people who understand exactly what it means when your team’s chasing promotion or struggling to stay up.
British TV is another staple. Programmes like Coronation Street, Call the Midwife, or The Great British Bake Off give people a link to home that’s hard to replace. BBC iPlayer and ITVX are part of the daily routine for many, even if they need a few technical tricks to watch from Spain. Some continue paying for Sky, while others find simpler ways to keep up. Whether it’s dramas, documentaries or the latest quiz show, they offer a rhythm that still feels like home.
Social media has become a lifeline for day-to-day chatter. Facebook groups packed with Brits in Spain act as local noticeboards, support hubs and occasional soapboxes. Whether someone’s looking for a shop that sells PG Tips or needs an English-speaking plumber, these groups provide help and a sense of belonging. WhatsApp group chats with friends and family are another way people stay close, packed with updates, photos and voice notes that make the miles feel smaller.
Food plays its part as well. While Spanish cuisine is widely enjoyed, cravings for bacon, sausage rolls or Monster Munch never quite fade. British shops in areas like Fuengirola or Torrevieja do a steady trade in items that bring people back to their roots. Walking into a shop in southern Spain and spotting a shelf full of recognisable brands is still a small comfort.
British expats might build a new life under the sun, but they don’t leave everything behind. Staying connected to home isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about balance. While they settle into new routines and embrace the Mediterranean pace, there’s still room for the habits, quirks and comforts of the UK. Whether it’s Saturday football, a quiet game online or catching up on the latest drama from Weatherfield, the connection is alive and well in 2025.
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