Solena Global Living Podcast: Real stories, real estate, and the realities of life abroad

Vanessa Rosenblum | Founder of Solena Global Living
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Thinking about moving abroad? You’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out alone, either. The Solena Global Living Podcast brings you real stories, real estate insights, and the real-life realities of what it takes to move, invest, and thrive overseas. Hosted by international real estate expert Vanessa Rosenblum, each episode explores the places, people, and practical steps behind global living — from finding the right location and buying property, to navigating culture shock and building a new life abroad.

  1. MAR 26

    Costa Daurada Uncovered: Where to Live, Buy, and Invest South of Barcelona

    Most international buyers know Barcelona and the Costa Brava — but few have heard of the stretch of Catalonia's coast just to the south. The Costa Daurada (Golden Coast) offers a completely different lifestyle: more relaxed, more local, and in many cases, more affordable. In this episode, I sit down with Jaume, a Catalan native and trusted real estate expert based in Calafell, who spent years living in the UK before returning home to help international buyers navigate this under-the-radar part of Spain. We cover everything from the chic beach town of Sitges and the underrated charm of Vilanova, to the historic city of Tarragona and the quieter coastal gems of Calafell and Cambrils. Jaume also shares a real-world cautionary tale about why working with the right agent — one who truly looks out for your interests — can make a significant financial difference when buying property in Spain. Whether you're looking for a year-round home, a vacation retreat, or a smart investment on the Catalan coast, this episode will help you understand what each town really has to offer. Contact Juame: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/XDGnoS5Sn9RpIhieNpOu Need help choosing the right country or city? Book a Move Abroad Consultation → https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/move-abroad-consult Learn about our upcoming scouting trips → https://www.expatsigo.com/scouting-trips/spain/?ref=solenaliving Want to be matched with a trusted real estate expert abroad? Complete our Buyer/Renter Matching Questionnaire → https://form.jotform.com/VanessaRosenblum/buyer-matching-questionnaire About Solena Global Living Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you're dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live — and invest — with confidence. 👉 Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving Or visit: https://www.solenagloballiving.com Chapters 00:00 Exploring Costa Daurada: An Introduction to Catalonia 02:20 Costa Brava vs Costa Daurada 03:20 Common Misconceptions 04:16 Misconceptions and Realities of Costa Daurada 04:50 Best Year Round Cities 05:47 Sitges 07:42 Are Foreigners Welcomed in Sitges? 10:28 Housing Prices in Sitges 14:47 Vilanova: The Little Barcelona 14:51 Vilanova 20:27 Calafell 22:07 Active Lifestyle for Retirees in Calafell 23:46 Housing Prices: Calafell is a Hidden Gem 25:41 Exploring Tarragona: A City with History 26:46 Tarragona's Grit: A Contrast with Sitges 29:11 Language and Community Integration in Tarragona 31:17 Tarragona's Housing Market Dynamics 32:43 Tourism's Impact on Tarragona's Daily Life 34:20 Salou 35:55 Cambrils vs. Salou: A Lifestyle Comparison 38:22 Guiding International Buyers in Catalonia

    49 min

  2. MAR 11

    How to Plan a Scouting Trip to Spain Before You Move

    If you’re planning a scouting trip to Spain, the goal is not just to see beautiful places — it’s to figure out where your life might actually fit best. In this video, I talk through some of the most important things to think about when scouting different cities and towns in Spain: getting clear on your non-negotiables, narrowing down regions, slowing down enough to really feel a place, talking to locals, exploring beyond the obvious areas, and trusting your gut when a place surprises you. A few reminders as you plan your own scouting trip: 1. Start with your priorities, but don’t make your list so rigid that you miss a place that feels right 2. Compare several areas, then circle back and spend more time in your favorites 3. Get beyond the tourist center and spend time in real neighborhoods 4. Talk to locals and people who have already made the move 5. Test the pace, rhythm, and practical side of daily life 6. Leave room to be surprised If you’d like support with your move to Spain, here are a few ways I can help: Move Abroad Consult: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/move-abroad-consult Location Tour or Private Scouting Trips: Email me and tell me where you want to go: vanessa@solenaliving.com Buyer / Renter Questionnaire: https://form.jotform.com/VanessaRosenblum/find-an-expert Group Scouting Trips: https://www.expatsigo.com/scouting-trips/spain/?ref=solenaliving Website: https://www.solenaglobaliving.com Tax & Visa Consultants: https://movingtospain.com/?aff=9baf6b2e Please note: This page includes affiliate links. #MovingToSpain #SpainRelocation #ScoutingTrip #LivingInSpain #MoveAbroad #RelocationTips

    27 min

  3. MAR 4

    How to Create Scalable Income So You Can Move Abroad

    Dreaming about living abroad… but your income is still tied to one city, one office, or one “approved” timezone? If you’ve ever thought, “I can figure out the visa / school / housing part… but how am I actually going to make a living?” — this episode is for you. In this conversation, Vanessa Rosenblum sits down with Arnitha Webb, who built a business she can run from anywhere (and now lives abroad and helps others do the same), to break down what it really takes to create scalable, location-independent income — without needing to become an influencer or start from scratch. Arnitha shares a grounded framework for turning what you already know into a clear offer, building credibility in a way that doesn’t feel cringe, and using modern tools (yes, including AI) to deliver results without working 24/7. You’ll learn - Why “finding a remote job” isn’t the only path — and when building a business is the smarter move - How to package your skills and life experience into an offer people will actually pay for - Arnitha’s “people in the middle” lens: too old for the student-visa route, too young to retire — and what does work - The Authority Graph concept: how to build trust + visibility systematically (without shouting into the void) - How to use systems + AI to streamline delivery, reduce hours, and still grow - Pricing + positioning mistakes that keep smart people underpaid (and stuck) If you’re trying to build a business that supports your life abroad — instead of building a life that has to squeeze around your work — this episode will help you get clear on your next step. Connect with Arnitha: https://rylabroad.com?fpr=vanessa86 Need help choosing the right country or city? Book a Move Abroad Consultation → https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/move-abroad-consult Want to be matched with a trusted real estate expert abroad? Complete our Buyer/Renter Matching Questionnaire → https://form.jotform.com/VanessaRosenblum/buyer-matching-questionnaire About Solena Global Living Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live — and invest — with confidence. Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving Or visit: https://www.solenagloballiving.com Chapters: 00:00 Understanding the Middle Class in the Digital Nomad Space 03:43 Arnitha's Journey to Location Independence 03:52 Navigating the Shift from Corporate to Entrepreneurial Mindset 05:44 First Steps Towards Location Independence 07:45 Building a Sustainable Income Abroad 10:03 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change 12:17 The Authority Graph: A Framework for Success 14:24 Identifying and Monetizing Your Unique Skill Set 15:51 The Future of Work: Adapting to Industry Changes 16:46 Extracting Value from Your Experience 19:00 Avoiding the Trap of Creating Another Job 22:19 Navigating Business vs. Job Mindset 23:19 Finding Your Niche: The Importance of Specificity 24:11 Leveraging Technology for Efficiency 25:24 Accelerating Business Development with AI 25:47 The Evolving Landscape of Opportunity 27:03 Simplifying Systems for Business Success 28:15 Testing Ideas: Validating Market Demand 30:59 Packaging Your Offer: Building a Solid Foundation 32:30 Understanding Pricing: Finding Your Value 38:42 The Importance of Client Fit and Confidence

    43 min

  4. FEB 18

    Madrid Neighborhoods: Where Should You Live?

    Feeling overwhelmed by Madrid? Wondering which neighborhoods you should actually consider, what it costs to rent or buy, and how to find “your place” in a city that seems to have endless options? In this conversation, Vanessa Rosenblum sits down with Sanja of eXp Realty to help you cut through the noise and start making smart, grounded decisions—whether you’re relocating soon or just beginning your research. Sanja shares a practical, on-the-ground framework for narrowing your search: how to match lifestyle + commute realities, how to spot “too good to be true” listings, and how to avoid the common mistakes that cost newcomers time and money. You’ll learn Which neighborhoods tend to be the easiest landing zones for internationals (and why): Salamanca District, Chamberí, and pockets like Almagro. What renting typically requires (documents, deposits, income expectations) and how to plan ahead. How to sanity-check prices and expectations using Idealista (and what not to believe at first glance). How to avoid scams—especially when using short-term platforms like Airbnb as a bridge. Where families often look when they want more space outside the center: Pozuelo de Alarcón, Las Rozas, Boadilla del Monte. A forward-looking perspective on growth and development zones like Madrid Nuevo Norte and how that can influence a rent-vs-buy decision. If you’re trying to choose the right area (not just a popular one), this episode will give you a clearer path—so you can stop spinning and start narrowing. Get Sanja's Madrid Guide → https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/F2Y7q2YjkInxegXVC6Jv Want to Explore Spain in Person? Learn about our Spain scouting trips → https://www.solenagloballiving.com/scout-spain Interested in buying or renting property in Madrid? Connect with Sanja → https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/KWLu0BIcl76pDxSjFm7F Need help choosing the right country or city? Book a Move Abroad Consultation: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/move-abroad-consult About Solena Global Living: Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live — and invest — with confidence. Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving Or visit: https://www.solenagloballiving.com Want to be matched with a trusted real estate expert abroad? Complete our Buyer/Renter Matching Questionnaire: https://form.jotform.com/VanessaRosenblum/buyer-matching-questionnaire

    32 min

  5. FEB 5

    Living in Denia Spain 🇪🇸 | Cost of Living, Real Estate, Healthcare & Daily Life on Costa Blanca

    Thinking about moving to Spain and wondering what life is really like on the Costa Blanca North? In this episode of the Solena Global Living Podcast, we take you inside Denia, Spain — one of the most searched coastal towns for expats, retirees, and families.Host Vanessa sits down with Marta, a local real estate expert who has lived in Denia for nearly four decades, to talk honestly about: ✔️ What daily life in Denia is actually like (not just the postcard version) ✔️ Summer vs winter — crowds, traffic, and seasonal lifestyle ✔️ Real estate prices for apartments and houses✔️ Renting vs buying in today’s market ✔️ Healthcare in Spain (public & private systems explained) ✔️ Safety and quality of life ✔️ Transportation and living without a car ✔️ Festivals, culture, and community life ✔️ Why Denia’s location between Valencia and Alicante is a major advantage. Denia is a vibrant Mediterranean city of around 50,000 residents, known for its sandy beaches, rocky coves, mountain hiking, marina life, and incredible gastronomy. With ferries to the Balearic Islands and two international airports within easy reach, it’s become a top choice for people building a life abroad in Spain.If you’re researching where to live in Spain — especially coastal towns that stay alive year-round — this conversation gives real clarity beyond glossy travel blogs. 🌍 Want to Explore Denia in Person? 🔹 Learn about our Spain scouting trips 🔹 Interested in buying property in Denia? Connect with Marta. 🔹 Need help choosing the right country or city? Book a Move Abroad Consultation. 🧭 Topics Covered Denia Spain lifestyle Cost of living in Denia Denia real estate prices Healthcare in Spain for expats Costa Blanca North living Retiring in Spain Living in Spain without a car Spain festivals and culture Expat life in Spain

    46 min

  6. 12/03/2025

    The Best Places to Live on the Costa Blanca North (Local Expert Explains)

    If you’ve been researching the Costa Blanca North and wondering whether Altea, Jávea (Xàbia), or Moraira is right for you, this episode breaks it all down. I sit down with Marianne, a long-time local resident and real estate expert, to compare three of the most beautiful and sought-after towns on Spain’s Mediterranean coast. We explore what each town feels like, who it’s best suited for, and what you can expect as a full-time resident or future homeowner. In this episode we cover: The personality of Altea, Jávea, and Moraira — and what makes each one uniqueWhich towns attract families, retirees, younger crowds, or bohemian creativesLifestyle differences: nightlife, walkability, beaches, and community vibesReal estate trends and why sea-view properties here hold their valueYear-round living: what’s lively vs. quiet in winterHealthcare, infrastructure, and how easy it is to integrate into local lifeInsider insight you won’t find on Google or Instagram Whether you’re thinking about relocating, investing, or simply choosing the right base for your scouting trip, this conversation will help you understand the subtle differences that matter. 👉 Get matched with a vetted, English-speaking real estate expert in the Costa Blanca North (or anywhere in Spain, Portugal, Andorra, and beyond): https://linktr.ee/solenaliving And if you’re still narrowing down where you want to live, you can book a 1-hour move-abroad consultation with me. Let’s find your place abroad. About Solena Global Living Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live — and invest — with confidence. 👉 Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving Or, visit https://www.solenagloballiving.com

    17 min

  7. 10/29/2025

    Why Everyone Falls in Love with Málaga

    Discover why Málaga has become one of Spain’s most beloved destinations for expats and investors alike. Vanessa sits down with local expert Carin, a rental and buyer specialist, to talk about what makes Málaga so magnetic — from its walkable, family-friendly neighborhoods to the challenges and joys of renovating property in the city. You'll learn: - What makes Málaga’s community so warm and magnetic - The best walkable and family-friendly neighborhoods - What to expect when renting or buying property - The realities of renovation — what it really takes - How Málaga compares to other Spanish cities If you’ve ever dreamed of living in southern Spain — or you’re curious what daily life really looks like behind the postcards — this conversation is for you. Ready to take the first step to rent or buy in Malaga? Contact Carin here: https://api.honeybadgernation.com/widget/form/f1lx6ykBehI04GdzfNFl About Solena Global Living Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live — and invest — with confidence. 👉 Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving Or, visit https://www.solenagloballiving.com 📋 Want to be matched with a trusted real estate expert abroad? Complete our Buyer Matching Questionnaire: https://form.jotform.com/VanessaRosenblum/buyer-matching-questionnaire Chapters 00:00 The Allure of Málaga 03:51 Exploring Neighborhoods and Living Options 06:20 Rental Insights and Timing Strategies 09:03 Understanding Property Prices 11:37 Purchasing Property in Málaga 14:23 Renovation Opportunities and Challenges 17:57 Introduction to the Conversation 18:07 Connecting with Local Real Estate Experts 18:34 Guidance on Life in Spain

    19 min

  8. 10/15/2025

    Life in Santander & Cantabria: Discover the Charm of Spain's Northern Coast

    What’s it really like to live in Cantabria, Spain? In this episode, we explore one of Spain’s most underrated regions — a lush, green corner of the north where life moves at a slower pace, communities are tight-knit, and the natural beauty is breathtaking. Our guest, Grace is a rental specialist and Property Finder and she shares insider insights into life in Santander and the surrounding region — from the region’s mix of sea and mountains, to its more traditional culture, lower cost of living, and welcoming small towns. We talk about who thrives here, what daily life looks like, and why Cantabria might be the perfect fit if you’re dreaming of a more peaceful, authentic experience abroad. Whether you’re drawn to surfing beaches, medieval villages, mountain trails, or a calmer lifestyle far from the tourist hotspots, this episode will help you decide if Cantabria is the right place for your Spanish adventure. 📍 Interested in Cantabria? Contact Grace through Solena Global Living here: https://api.honeybadgernation.com/widget/form/i7Ljv5c7rFOmOkoNZtYB About Solena Global Living Solena Global Living helps international buyers find their place in the world by connecting them with trusted, English-speaking real estate experts across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of a second home, investing abroad, or planning a full relocation, we offer personalized guidance and insider insights to make your move seamless. Through our curated referral network and the Solena Global Living Podcast, we bring you real stories, expert advice, and the resources you need to live — and invest — with confidence. 👉 Get in touch: https://linktr.ee/solenaliving Or, visit https://www.solenagloballiving.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cantabria 03:46 The Allure of a Slower Lifestyle 06:12 Exploring Santander: A Port City with Rich History 08:35 Safety and Community in Santander 08:50 Navigating Life Without a Car 12:38 Education in Cantabria: Schools and Integration 16:48 Cultural Adaptation and Family Traditions 19:37 Building Community in a New Place 22:26 Housing Market Insights: Rentals and Purchases 29:18 Introduction to the Conversation 29:47 Guidance for Moving to Spain .

    30 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.3
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Thinking about moving abroad? You’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out alone, either. The Solena Global Living Podcast brings you real stories, real estate insights, and the real-life realities of what it takes to move, invest, and thrive overseas. Hosted by international real estate expert Vanessa Rosenblum, each episode explores the places, people, and practical steps behind global living — from finding the right location and buying property, to navigating culture shock and building a new life abroad.

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