Roaming Brit
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From a new life in spain, to an old life in britain, 'roaming brit' documents uncertain times!

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On 31st January 2016, my partner and I left Southampton to start a new life as Expats in Gran Alacant, on the Costa Blanca. This blog will document our journey, as we navigate the Spanish system, travelling a path untried and untested. With Brexit looming, political turmoil in Europe, and an unpredictable future, harsh decisions must be made. Illness, family bonds, and a Change of heart all make for challenging times in the life of a 'Roaming Brit!'

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Weekend!

11/4/2016

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Friday

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It was my first night working behind the bar at Dunbars on Friday night. I'm going to be working both back and front of house.  I want to learn all aspects of running a busy restaurant, and this is ideal for me.  I am someone who loves to learn new things, taking on opportunities in all my previous jobs, to
gain experience and qualifications whenever I can.  Although I attended University in Southampton, I have also worked hard to add to my portfolio of qualifications, attending courses or asking to do more, as and when I am able.  So learning as much as I can at Dunbars, is essential for me, in order
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restaurant trade is no exception. There are no ´Weights and Measures´here for example, so knowing how much alcohol to pour in a glass, is part of that learning curve.  Anyway the first night, went well, at least I know how to pour a pint and make a few cocktails, as well as other aspects of working 
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We went out to a few local bars near Dunbars, with a few friends and my boss Mandy.  It was Friday night and everyone was out enjoying the night. As a holiday and second home destination, we always have different people around and about, but the greatest thing about living here is the constant holiday
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time in Gran Alacant and all olf them have been a joy to get to know. Without them, none of us would have got a job. It really is about who you know, not what you know.  We handed out many CV's at the beginning, but only got jobs through word of mouth. It is the Spanish way, and works well!
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for me to feel fulfilled.  I can safely say, that I am feeling as fulfilled and happy as I can be.  

My first night behind the bar, was a quiet one, which meant for better training.  Things are very different in Spain, compared to The UK and the 
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behind a busy bar!

Darrell, Natalee and Jamie came down for a few drinks, while I was working. Darrell was celebrating getting a new driving job and Natalee was happy to have a trial shift on Saturday in a local bar
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atmosphere.  Everyone is happy, enjoying the Spanish sun and celebrating life.  It actually makes for a great place to live.  Happiness is of course a combination of many things and added together, times are good in Spain.  We have met many wonderful characters during our short 
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Saturday

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I've just got in from work this evening and had a busy night cooking and preparing for tomorrows Sunday Carvery.  I think all of us were hanging after last night, especially when alcohol is so cheap.  We did put a lot away to be honest and I was certainly feeling it this morning.  All OK finally for work this evening though.
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An interesting thing popped up on facebook this evening, talking about'My biggest mistake'.  I don´t usually take much notice of these things, but I just wanted to share how accurate it was, uncanny in fact.  I also know the person in question, reads this blog!
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Sunday

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I was in work early on Sunday. It´s carvery day at Dunbars and thus far my busiest day of the week for me.  I enjoy working the carvery and enjoy Sunday's generally.  They are fast paced, something I enjoy.

It was a very hot day in Gran Alacant and the views from the restaurant are to die for.  When you work in a place like this, it´s all about the sun and views.  That is the biggest bonus, living and working here.  It is a beautiful place!

Zoe is going back to The UK on Tuesday so I stayed behind after work to have a
few beers with her.  

After work we went to Zest with Mandy to have more drinks.  

It does seem that my drinking levels have gone up dramatically living here. There is a larger drinking culture 
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where we are, than I am used to in the UK.  I suppose there are a number of factors for that, including the holiday location and atmosphere, as well as the cheaper alcohol and cigarettes. whatever the factors are, there does not seem to be the associated factors, that Britain suffers with.
It has been a boozy week for me socially and that is the key.  If I was having a drink in Britain, 9 out of 10 times it would be sat at home, not mixing with other people.  Here that insular culture really does not exist.  You are outside far more. In fact I don´t really want to be inside, so immediately you are surrounded by other people who are also socialising with others.  GA is a very social urbanization, makes for great company and is certainly more conducive for good health.

It has been a wonderful weekend, with some great people.  Who knows what this week will bring!
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    51-year-old Author and professional blogger. Expat formerly living in Gran Alacant on the Costa Blanca! Currently, residing in my adopted home of Perth, Western Australia.

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    A place to call home
    Finally, a place we can call home.  A community of like minded individuals, who used to call Britain home.  Now Spain is our choice, an altogether gentler, happier, sunnier and safer experience!
            Luke Feb 16
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  • Blog
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