To escape rising energy prices, Europeans migrate to Spain as winter approaches

Thousands of Nordic citizens have moved to the coast of Spain, fleeing rising energy prices as winter approaches.

The number of immigrants from European countries such as Belgium, Germany and Britain, towards Spain, witnessed a remarkable increase, at a time when the North of Europe suffers from high energy prices as a result of the Russian military attack on Ukraine.

Thousands of citizens of these countries moved to the coastal municipality of Caleb in Spain, either permanently or seasonally during the winter month to enjoy the warm weather that does not require providing energy sources for heating.

The municipality is now home to residents of 98 different nationalities.

According to official statistics, about half a million people from Northern Europe have migrated to the Costa Blanca in the Spanish municipality of Alicante during the past few years, a migration that has increased significantly since the start of the current energy crisis in Europe.

Belgians make up the largest community in the municipality, and some have opened their own businesses such as restaurants, butcher shops, beauty salons and even real estate agencies.

The lower cost of living in Spain in general compared to the Nordic countries is a great advantage for those moving there.

"Retirees can't afford to go to a restaurant every day in Belgium, but here they can do it. Here we are enjoying life," says Annie Gudens, president of the Friends of Belgium Association in Caleb.

Spain is not immune to high energy prices, but the higher temperatures in its coasts during the winter compared to northern Europe eliminate the need to provide sources of heating.