Living on the Costa del Sol

Given the high summer temperatures, take a leaf out of the locals' book.
Practise the 'mañana syndrome' - it's not just a joke, it's a necessity in the summer for those of us who live and work here. It is understandable that everything is taken at a slower pace which can be frustrating at first to newly arrived ex-pats who have opted out of the rat-race of other European countries.
However, the lifestyle here is healthier with much outdoor socialising.
There are a number of national fiestas (bank holidays) and colourful local fiestas when everything closes while people party till the early hours of the morning.
The streets will be decorated, there will be singing, dancing, eating and drinking.
Language:  It's not all plainsailing though, the language barrier can be an obstacle.
Although those involved in the tourist industry generally speak English, don't assume that everyone here speaks English. Integrate yourself with the locals and learn some Spanish. RAINBOW ESTATE offers classes in Spanish by qualified teachers at any time to suit you and at any level.
Medical: Spain boasts one of the best health services in Europe. Medical staff are highly qualified and centres specialise in the latest techniques and equipment which are often even developed in Spain
Chemists are knowledgeable and can usually help in offering medication for common complaints but should you need to visit a doctor, you must first be registered with a local GP who will then refer you to a consultant in a hospital, if necessary. Hospitals offer in-house interpreters if language is a problem.
For minor accidents you can go to your local Red Cross (Cruz Roja) for treatment.
If you are staying here for no more than 90 days in any year you are entitled to free treatment and can use your E111 but if you are residing here for longer and receiving a State Pension from an EU country or paying Spanish Social Security contribution you will be entitled to treatment providing you are in possession of the E121 from your home country. If you are not, then treatment must be paid for unless you are covered by a private medical insurance such as BUPA (Sanitas). Drugs and medicines are normally paid for by the patient.
Education: As a resident with an NIE (see below) your children can attend a Spanish State School. Often the better ones have a waiting list so ensure you register your child as soon as you decide to move here.
Formal education starts at aged 6 but many schools offer pre-school classes from aged 3. Some even provide school transport if you live within a catchment area.
The Spanish curriculum is quite different since all subjects are studied until the child leaves school at aged 16. The GCSE is replaced by a School Certificate. Pupils can then go on to further education until aged 18 and then enrol in higher education at a university.
Obviously, classes are conducted in Spanish but young children learn very quickly and after a term will be almost bi-lingual.
There are many private schools on the coast, some offering bi-lingual education; others English only. The British curriculum is followed and pupils sit IGCSE exams.
It is usually possible to transfer from an English school and take the same subjects but some schools require pupils to sit an entrance exam to assess their level and ability.
NIE: This is the Foreigner's Identity Number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is required for formal registration and administrative procedures in Spain. You will need an NIE for buying a car, a property, a mobile phone, hiring a telephone and opening a bank account. You apply for the NIE at the police station and will need the aplication form duly completed, your passport and a copy and 2 photographs.
RAINBOW ESTATE can help with interpreting, translating and completing any documents.
Driving: An EU photo driving licence is valid. Minimum age for driving is 18. You can bring your EU registered car but cannot use it for more than 6 months in any calendar year. After that time, since you are no longer considered a tourist, you should re-register the car for Spanish plates and pay the annual road tax.
You can use any no-claims you have with an insurance company but will need proof in writing.
By law, any car must be equipped with a set of spare bulbs, 2 red hazard triangles, spare tyre and tools and a luminous jacket.  You can be fined if you do not have these and remember that drink-driving is not tolerated and fines are instant high too.
This information is offered as a general guideline only.