Recent events around the world have all worked together to affect the travel industry. For an Island such as Fuerteventura, which is heavily reliant on tourism… this is now very apparent. No – the Island is not dead, despite what “doom and gloomers” would have you believe, but it certainly is going through a testing time. The recent Ryanair news has frightened a number of business owners – although as a Corralejo resident said to me recently, “There was life before Ryanair… and there will be life again after”. Wisely however, businesses are preparing for a lean period, and taking measures to ensure that they survive the next year or two. So for new people wanting to move to Fuerteventura – is it s good idea? Or bad timing?
For those people trying to sell their homes in Ireland or the UK, this isn’t the easiest time at all. With banks toughening up on their lending policies… less people are buying. So although a family’s personal situation may be in a perfect condition for making the move… that elusive house sale could be holding them back.
Ok… but what if the property is already sold, and the money’s in the bank waiting? Well… if that money is in pounds, then right now is a horrendous time to get it changed into euros. The exchange rate has hit people hard who are trying to transfer into the Euro Zone.
But worry not. For house buyers in Fuerteventura who have the cash ready, there are a great number of bargains to be snapped up. Many are keen to sell for their own personal reasons, and now are more prepared to negotiaite on price… allowing new dreams for many potential buyers that would have struggled a year or so ago.
Moving on to employment. Ok – so if you think you’re going to move over with your family of four… and just “get by” with a bit of bar work, and cleaning – then stop right now… get your right hand… and give yourself a great big slap across the face – it just ain’t gonna happen!. This is a tourist destination remember? So… if there are less holidaymakers coming, then there are less jobs available in that industry. Also, most companies in Fuerteventura will not consider employing someone until they are actually living on the Island… and many more won’t consider you until you can provide references and experience of Island life too. Don’t be offended – it’s not personal, it’s just what employers have learned through valuable experience.
However, all is not lost. There are still new people relocating to Fuerteventura life all the time – who have the know how, gumption, and desire to make a proper living. You’re not likely to make your millions here… but a comfortable living is very achieveable. Starting your own venture can be a good way of achieving this. But make sure you do your research and if you do consider starting up a business, or taking on an existing one, make sure you are given all the support, paperwork, and legal advice to allow you to make an informed decision. Don’t snap up the first “bargain” you see. If the business is selling… then why? Ask as many questions as you can… and make sure you leave those rose tinted glasses behind. Do your research if you are starting up a business of your own. Make sure there is a healthy market for you. And ask lots of people for their advice and help – don’t just rely on one or two… as opinions can often be skewed.
If you are really determined… do your research… plan carefully… bring enough money to live on for a good while in case you can’t find work immediately… and come over with your eyes wide open – then the rewards are immense. Hell – we know they are!
So think very carefully about your impending move… and we’ll see you when you get here!
February 9th, 2009 | 
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One of the first – though very minor – mistakes people make when moving to the Canary Islands (yeah, including us) is to go and buy a whole bundle of two to three pin adapters for their UK appliances…
I did feel the need to check, however, that the live and neutral wires did not have to go to a specific side of the plug itself. I couldn´t see that they did – but hey it’s electricity here, and not to be fooled with.
If you are changing an appliance that has only live and neutral wires with no earth wire, then obviously skip step 4. However you must check that the appliance is double insulated. If it is the appliance will be marked somewhere with a symbol that looks like a square within a square. Click here for more information on double insulation.
