What’s it like living in Bilbao?
I love a story about someone leaving their country and, many years later, coming back to their roots.
Maider has lived in a lot of places including Germany, Chile, India, China and Costa Rica. In this interview she tells us about the reasons why she and her husband decided to come back to Bilboa. She also gives us a lot of useful information and tips on Bilbao and the Basque Country.
Name: Maider Muñoz Bujedo
Age: 38
Country of Origin: Spain (and Costa Rica)
Number of years in Spain: 4 (since coming back from Costa Rica)
Hi Maider! You were born near Bilbao but have travelled the world and only recently moved back to Bilbao. Can you tell us about your life and why you’ve come back to live in Spain?
After living in various places around the world – including Germany, the US, China, India, Chile, and Costa Rica – I’ve had the privilege of experiencing different cultures, languages, and educational systems. In the summer of 2020, my husband and I decided it was time to return to our roots. We wanted to give our children the opportunity to experience the values, traditions, and way of life that shaped both of us growing up, despite coming from different regions of Spain.
My background in Translation and Interpretation, as well as a Master’s degree in High School Education, a Master’s degree in Spanish as a Second Language and another in School Management, has given me the chance to teach Spanish, English, and German across multiple continents. From teaching high school in Germany to working at the Instituto Cervantes in China, and even serving as a 4th grade homeroom teacher in the US, my international experience has only deepened my commitment to education.
Additionally, I’ve worked in various fields, including at the Spanish Embassy in Costa Rica, Amec Foster Wheeler in Chile, the International Relations Department at the University of Deusto in Spain, and even Nokia in China.
Now that our kids are aged 7 and 8, we’ve decided to settle in Bilbao. We feel it’s the right place to help them connect to the Basque and Spanish culture while they’re still young.
Why do you think Spain is special? I´m curious to your thoughts, especially considering you’ve had all these opportunities to live in other places.
What a wonderful question! Spain is unique in so many ways. It’s a country that truly engages all the senses. The warmth of its people, the lively atmosphere, and the beauty found in every corner are unforgettable. The weather, with its long sun-filled days that stretch well into the evening, creates a relaxed rhythm of life where you’re encouraged to savor each moment.
I’m always in awe of how history is present in daily life. Whether it’s stumbling upon a medieval city wall, Roman ruins, or centuries-old architecture, Spain feels like a living museum where history and modernity blend effortlessly.
And, of course, there’s the food! Spain is a gastronomic paradise, with every region offering its own incredible dishes. Each meal feels like an event, a celebration of flavors. Honestly, Spain has it all – the beauty, the history, the people – and that’s why it continues to feel so special to me.
So why Bilbao? What has led you back here? Again, what is special about Bilbao?
Bilbao has become a popular destination for expats, foreign retirees, and digital nomads. It strikes the perfect balance – small enough to feel personal, yet with all the conveniences of a larger city. Its location, nestled between the sea and the mountains, is ideal for anyone who loves outdoor activities. The city is known for its excellent public transportation, cleanliness, and safety, making it an attractive place for people from all over the world.
I find Bilbao special because it offers a unique combination of urban convenience and natural beauty. Plus, the locals are friendly and welcoming, and there’s a strong sense of community that’s hard to find in larger cities.
You’ve told me that you offer relocation services to Bilbao. Have you seen Bilbao becoming an increasingly popular destination for expats/immigrants? What exactly do you do and how do you help people?
Yes, Bilbao has definitely become a popular destination for executives, digital nomads, and foreign retirees. Its small size, excellent transportation network, and proximity to the coast make it an attractive place for people looking for a balanced lifestyle. Not to mention the fantastic food and top-tier location in Spain.
As for my services, I assist expats in navigating the often complex process of settling in Bilbao. This includes everything from finding housing (which can be challenging in the current market) to helping with bureaucratic procedures, opening bank accounts, enrolling in city services, and understanding local customs. My goal is to make the relocation process as smooth as possible, so individuals and families can quickly feel at home. I also offer cultural orientation and Spanish language support, which is crucial for integrating into Spanish society. In short, my aim is to help newcomers adjust to life in Bilbao quickly and confidently.
Editors note: you can contact Maider at [email protected] or on Linkedin at Maider Muñoz Bujedo. She’ll be happy to help you out.
Do you think there are any special challenges to moving to Bilbao (and the Basque) that might be different from those encountered in different parts of Spain?
Moving to Bilbao does present a few unique challenges, especially when it comes to housing. The demand for rental properties is high, and national tenant protection laws can sometimes make landlords hesitant to rent. This means securing housing can take a bit longer, especially for newcomers.
As for language, while Euskera (Basque) is an important part of the local culture, it’s not usually a barrier for foreigners since Spanish is widely spoken. Most people in urban areas are bilingual, which makes life easier for expats. However, if you’re looking to truly immerse yourself in the culture, learning Basque can be beneficial, especially in rural areas or certain professional settings like education and government.
How about the weather Maider? I’ve heard people talk about the miserable weather in the Basque. What are your thoughts on that? Is it a different kind of expat that wants to live in this region?
Ah, the weather! Yes, the Basque weather often comes up in conversation. Growing up here, I associated grey skies with home – long stretches of rain and clouds that kept the sunshine at bay. However, I think perceptions of the weather have shifted in recent years. The climate has become milder, and we’ve been fortunate to enjoy more sunny and warm days well into the fall and even winter. In fact, it’s not unusual to still visit the beach in September, October, and even December!
The colder months are typically January and February, but temperatures rarely dip below 7ºC, so you can still enjoy outdoor activities. The rain, though frequent, usually comes in short bursts, and the city’s lush greenery is proof that the weather brings beauty.
As for the type of expat who is drawn to Bilbao, I’d say it’s someone who values a slower pace of life and appreciates culture, and nature. It’s not the place for someone seeking constant sunshine or a bustling, overcrowded city, but for those who want a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle, Bilbao is ideal.
When you first lived in Bilbao you were single. Now you’ve come back with 2 kids. Was that a consideration in choosing Bilbao? For people with children, is Bilbao/the Basque a good place to raise children?
Absolutely! Moving back to Bilbao with children was a key consideration for us. The city offers a wonderful quality of life for families. It’s safe, clean, and has excellent educational opportunities. Schools here are highly regarded, and in 2023, Forbes included five schools from the Basque Country on its list of the best schools in Spain.
Bilbao strikes a great balance between urban living and access to nature, making it an ideal place to raise children. The overall environment encourages well-being and balance.
You’ve mentioned that your 2nd job is teaching English in high school. What’s the level of English like in Bilboa? What should potential expats know about moving to the area? (and how important is learning Basque?)
The level of English in Bilbao, and the Basque Country in general, has improved dramatically in recent years, especially among younger generations. English is taught from an early age in schools, and many people speak at least basic English. In fact, it’s common to find trilingual education options that include English as part of the curriculum.
That being said, English proficiency can vary, and expats may encounter situations where more advanced language skills are required. For those considering a move, it’s definitely helpful to know some Spanish to make daily life easier. In Bilbao, many signs are bilingual, with Euskera appearing first and Spanish second. While it’s possible to get by without speaking Basque in urban areas, it’s still widely spoken, and learning a few phrases can enrich your experience. Saying Egun on (good morning) instead of Buenos días will definitely be appreciated by the Bilbaínos!
When not working, what do you like to do? How do you spend your free time? Do you have any favorite spots in the region?
In Bilbao, we love exploring the local parks, which are fantastic for outdoor activities like walking, hiking, and biking. The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene. When we first arrived, we became members of the Guggenheim Museum. It’s a great spot for our kids, with Richard Serra’s sculptures and Yayoi Kusama’s Light of Life always sparking their imagination.
We also love spending time on the coast – beaches are just a short drive away, Getxo, Sopelana, Plentzia, and the charming fishing villages of Bermeo and Lekeitio are also worth a visit. Bilbao’s food scene is another highlight. From enjoying pintxos at local bars to visiting the Ribera Market on weekends. We make the most of the seasonal goodies like castañas in the fall, chocolate con churros in the winter, and tostadas de Carnaval in February.
Just wondering: are there any resources (Facebook groups, forums, etc) for foreigners living in Bilbao?
There has been a significant increase in online platforms for expats in recent years. When I first returned, there was only “Expats in Bilbao,” but now you can find many Facebook groups, such as Expat Families in Bilbao, Rent in Bilbao, Digital Nomads Bilbao, and Bilbao and Basque Country Expats Group.
There’s also a free website, Amigos Bilbao, where you can join different WhatsApp groups based on your interests, like biking, going out, cooking, hiking, and more.
Before we wrap up, do you have any final thoughts or advice for someone considering a move to Bilbao?
I would say that moving to Bilbao is an incredibly rewarding experience, but like any relocation, it requires preparation and patience. Be ready for some challenges along the way, but rest assured, the rewards are worth it. Bilbao will quickly become a place you call home.
So what’s the long term plan Maider? Do you see yourself and your family making Bilbao your forever home?
Nothing is set in stone! We’re always evolving, and we love learning about new cultures and countries. That said, we’re really enjoying our time in Bilbao and are open to the possibility of other destinations down the road.
See you soon! ¡Hasta la vista! Ikusi arte!
Thank you for doing this interview Maider!
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