The UK - What Would Make You Return?

During April, the weather in Spain was poor with rain nearly every day. Meanwhile, the UK enjoyed a gloriously sunny Easter and those who flew out to Spain regretted it. This got me wondering if the weather patterns swap over i.e. the UK had Spain's weather and vice versa. I am sure it wouldn't be long before there was a mass expat exodus out of Spain back into the UK. Who knows, they may even be followed by the sun loving Spanish themselves. Or perhaps they are not that fickle and love their country for more than just the weather. Having said that I was surprised by The Times poll stating that 27,000 immigrants come to the UK from Spain ever year.

So what does that say about the Brits? What it all boils down to is are the guaranteed 300 sunny days really the big pull factor? I don't like to believe that we could be that shallow so I have been thinking about what else could convince the expats in Spain to return to the UK. I suppose the most obvious would be the opposite of the reasons why people leave the UK. So what changes in the UK could entice people to return? Read on!

Permanent climate change

I believe that this would be the most important enticement back to the UK and is not unlikely as every summer becomes warmer and the winters are becoming milder.

Change of government

The sense of hope and rebirth that a new government brings might make expats want to return to be a part of it.

Significant drop in house prices

To get their foot on the UK property ladder is proving to be impossible for a lot of young Brits who choose to spend some time living and renting in Spain as an alternative to striving for UK home ownership.

Shift in values in society

Less materialistic values and people generally feeling more fulfilled and content.

Lower taxes, better healthcare service by NHS

Enough said.

Guaranteed job security

Although in the UK today the job for life ethos no longer exists, people are often disillusioned to discover that the work environment in Spain really can involve swinging frequently from one branch to the next. There's a lot of competition and it is very easy to find yourself without work.

More flexible working hours

People want more of a balance in their lives to be able to attend their child's school concert or go to the supermarket during the less busy period etc. Half the reason why there is so much traffic and everywhere is so busy in the UK is because everybody is operating on the same timetable so we all attempt to do the same thing at the same time.

More family/child orientated restaurants and other leisure activities

Unless you have a trusted, reliable babysitter, parents in the UK can't go out for a meal at night in the UK as taking children out late at night is not the done thing.

Control of Traffic Problems

People in the UK waste a lot of waking hours in pointless traffic jams. If you live in the centre of the country, it can take you up to six hours to get to the beach on a sunny weekend. The commute at the beginning and end of a working day adds to the effects of the daily grind.

Subsidies for skilled and educated people to return

Financial incentives for talented people with lots to offer the country. It would have to be worth their while.

Safer streets

Street lights, more police and changes to allow women to feel comfortable walking down the street (even in daylight in some areas).

A sense of community

An end to people staying in their 'patch' and leading an isolated life. Knowing that your local community is on hand to help can provide great peace of mind.

About the Author:
Susan Pedalino is Masters degree qualified in Intercultural Communication and teaching English as a foreign language. Susan regularly writes for Eye on Spain, which features cheap Spanish property.