For many English expatriates living abroad, national celebrations can take on a different meaning. St George’s Day, England’s national day, often passes with relatively little fanfare compared to other countries’ patriotic events. A recent Euro Weekly News poll asked if St George’s Day inspired a sense of patriotism. While some see it as an opportunity to reconnect with their roots, others question whether a single day should carry the weight of national identity.

Some respondents expressed a strong and enduring connection to their English identity, regardless of where they now live. Alison Clarke Allen reflected this sentiment clearly: “Yes, I do! I may not live in Shepperton Surrey anymore, but it is still my home town. I moved abroad, I didn’t stop being English/British!” Similarly, David Egner shared a straightforward affirmation: “As an English immigrant, yes I do.” These perspectives suggest that distance can sometimes strengthen rather than weaken a sense of national belonging.

Others, however, take a more critical view. Marian Morgan Visockis questioned the premise altogether: “No. Should there be one day a year when you “feel patriotic”?” Caz Burnett echoed this scepticism from a broader perspective: “I’m an immigrant and I consider myself European. Never understood the “pride” of just happening to be born in a country”. Stephen Chatt Milne also emphasised the importance of adapting to life abroad: “No. I left UK over 40 years ago, still love having a British passport but have always classed whatever Country I was living in as my home. Cheers and on with the show”.

A few responses focused less on personal identity and more on how the day is marked. Stephen Cowdell commented: “St George’s day is St George’s day, I don’t need it to feel patriotic or proud of my country, it would just be nice to celebrate it better than we do, unfortunately lots of people (not POC, but other whites) appear to not like their own flag and feel that it’s somehow racist.” Mike Smith added a lighter observation: “To be fair the English seem more intent on celebrating St Patricks day than they do St Georges Day. May be that has something to do with being intent on quaffing large amounts of Guinness.”

While some expats feel a clear sense of patriotism linked to St George’s Day, many do not see it as particularly significant.

A recent Euro Weekly News poll asked expatriates and long-term residents: would they choose Spain again if given the opportunity? The responses paint a vivid picture of life in the country, reflecting both the joys and the challenges experienced by those who have made the move. For many, Spain represents not just a change of location, but a complete shift in lifestyle, priorities and outlook.

A strong sense of satisfaction runs through many of the responses. Barbara James captures this sentiment clearly: “Absolutely yes, best life decision. I would struggle with what’s going on in the UK, this way of life is the best way for retirement.” Similarly, Trisha Rodgers reflects on a long and happy experience: “25 years ago we came I love this country and everything about it. I have no desire at all to go back to the UK only to see family occasionally. Life here is great.” These comments highlight how Spain offers a slower pace of life and a more relaxed approach that many find deeply rewarding.

Others emphasise lifestyle benefits. Caroline Jane Lewis shares: “Absolutely, haven’t regretted our little caravan in the sun. Love the people, the culture, the lifestyle.” For Victoria Senior, the experience has been especially meaningful for her family: ” I’ve loved bringing up our children here. Our Spanish chapter has been an extremely happy one!” Rick Greene echoes this decisiveness with a simple: “Without hesitation.”

For some, reflections include lessons learned along the way. Niall Finn notes: “Totally, but I would have learnt the language before, when I was younger.” His comment suggests that while the experience is positive, better preparation could have enhanced it further.

Not all responses are entirely positive, however. A minority highlight difficulties. Adda Macchich offers a more cautious perspective: “Not if I had a lot more money.” Michael Asa Beevers is more critical, stating: “No. disorganised bureaucratic chaos, nightmare from start to now.” These views point to challenges such as financial pressures and administrative hurdles that can affect the overall experience.

Despite these contrasting opinions, the overall tone remains overwhelmingly positive. As Mada Hellen puts it: “Yes, all the time, all over again, Spain is home.” In conclusion, most people said they would indeed choose Spain again, often without hesitation, valuing the lifestyle, community and sense of belonging they have found there.

In Spain, dealing with official paperwork is often a talking point among residents and expatriates. A recent poll on whether bureaucracy in Spain is really that bad revealed a wide range of experiences, from frustration with paperwork, differing regional procedures and reliance on professional assistance, to the view that the system is simply different rather than worse. The discussion reflects long-standing debates about administrative complexity in Spain, especially among foreigners trying to navigate official processes.

Many respondents strongly agreed that bureaucracy in Spain is particularly difficult, often pointing to heavy paperwork, inconsistency between offices and regions, and the frequent need for professional help. Maria Östergren said: “Yes! Have lived in 6 countries, done extensive work in over 20, and Spain is hands down the worst. Even getting gestors & lawyers involved to help doesn’t make any difference. We went to get something notarized at the Spanish embassy in our home country & the Consul said of all the countries he’d lived in as part of his line of work, Spain has the most complicated bureaucracy, so it must be true!” Similarly, Johanna Masterson said: “It’s so bad, you have to have a lawyer to do the work for you.” Several others reinforced the same frustration, with Christine Belmonte saying: “Yes 5 papers where 1 is sufficient.” and Amanda Hann stating simply: “100% yes.”

Paul Redfearn drew a comparison with other countries, saying: “Yes. I’ve noticed that UK bureaucracy has become easy to use and even helpful, whereas the Spanish one almost encourages you to seek legal help in making sense of it. Could this be why lawyers are so well off here?” Stephen Edwards added: “Yep… but it keeps so many people in jobs… and fixing the regular mistakes means jobs for life!”

By contrast, others were more positive or nuanced, suggesting that bureaucracy is not necessarily worse, just different in nature and expectations. Paul Kelly said: “No, it’s just different. Get a decent Gestoria and everything goes relatively smoothly.” Similarly, Colin Carter said: “No, it’s just different to what you are used to.” Alberto S. Descalzo added a conditional view: “Probably more paperwork but if you have the right papers no problem.”

In conclusion, most people said that bureaucracy in Spain is indeed very complicated, often pointing to heavy paperwork, inconsistency between offices and regions, and the frequent need for legal or administrative help, although a smaller group felt it is more a matter of adaptation and understanding local systems.