From the US to Cantabria: Why Brian and Amy Evans Chose Northern Spain for Their Family
When Brian and Amy Evans decided to move their family from the United States to Spain, they weren’t chasing a trend. They were looking for something deeper — language, culture, and a different pace of life for their two children.
At the time, their children were 8 and 10 years old. The goal was clear: raise them bilingual, immerse them in a new culture, and experience life beyond what felt familiar.
What wasn’t clear? That Cantabria would be the place.
In fact, they had never even been to Spain before planning the move.
Searching for the Right Place in Spain
Like many American families considering a move to Spain, Brian and Amy initially focused on larger, better-known cities. Barcelona and Valencia naturally appeared on their research list — established expat communities, international visibility, plenty of online information.
Cantabria had far less presence.
But it also had something compelling:
A stunning Atlantic coastline (a major draw for Brian, a surfer)
Mountains and green landscapes
Proximity to France and the Basque Country
And importantly, a region where their children would only need to learn one language
They almost didn’t include Cantabria in their visit itinerary.
Thankfully, they did.
“It Just Felt Right”
When they arrived in April to explore different cities and visit schools, they came without expectations. Cantabria was simply one of several options.
But something shifted when they got here.
The coastline drew them in first. Then the mountains. Then the atmosphere — the blend of nature, authenticity, and everyday Spanish life.
And when they found the right school for their children, the decision suddenly felt simple.
“It just felt like the right place to be.”
Sometimes the best decisions aren’t made on paper — they’re felt.
Navigating the Reality of Relocation
Moving internationally is never just about choosing a place. It’s about rebuilding the practical foundations of life.
Brian arrived with functional Spanish, but real-world Spanish in Spain — especially in administrative settings — was a different challenge altogether.
Buying a car.
Registering with Spanish authorities.
Enrolling the children in school.
Handling official paperwork.
Even with language skills, those first months required resilience. Vocabulary was different. Processes were unfamiliar. And everyday tasks demanded patience.
Amy began learning Spanish from scratch — embracing the challenge step by step.
Rather than viewing these moments as setbacks, they chose to see them as part of the adventure. Growth rarely feels smooth in the moment — but it builds confidence quickly.
Adjusting to a New Rhythm
One unexpected adjustment? Mealtimes.
Spanish restaurant hours didn’t align with their family routine — especially with young children in bed before many kitchens even opened for dinner.
Instead of seeing it as a frustration, they adapted. Cooking at home became the norm. They discovered new ingredients, shifted their food repertoire, and gradually embraced a different culinary rhythm.
Living in a new country isn’t about recreating your old life perfectly — it’s about expanding it.
The Biggest Lesson: Patience
When asked about his biggest learning, Brian’s answer was simple:
Patience.
Things take longer. Systems can feel inefficient. Processes don’t always make immediate sense.
“You can get frustrated — or you can accept it and stay in your zen place.”
It’s a mindset shift that many successful relocations share: acceptance over resistance.
The Surprise: Community
One of their biggest and most positive surprises has been the warmth of the people.
From the local Cantabrians they interact with daily to the wider international community, Brian and Amy describe their experience as overwhelmingly welcoming.
For a region that flies under the radar internationally, Cantabria offers something incredibly valuable: genuine connection.
What They Love Most About Living in Cantabria
Surfing in the morning.
Mountains within reach.
Skiing in winter.
Hiking year-round.
Very few regions in Spain offer this combination of ocean and mountains in such close proximity. For the Evans family, access to nature has transformed their lifestyle.
But beyond the landscape, it’s the friendliness and authenticity of daily life that stand out most.
Their Advice to Anyone Considering the Move?
“Don’t hesitate.”
For Brian and Amy, taking the leap — even without having visited Spain before — led them to a place that feels aligned with the life they wanted for their family.
Considering Moving to Cantabria?
Every relocation story is different. But the common thread is clarity: when lifestyle, education, community, and environment align, the decision becomes easier.
If you're exploring a move to Cantabria and want expert guidance navigating schools, residency, property, and local systems, we’re here to help you do it with confidence.
Because sometimes, the place you almost skipped becomes the place you call home.
