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How long have you lived in Tarragona and what attracted you there in the first place?
I first came to Tarragona in 1993 on a day-trip because I wanted to visit the Roman ruins and I fell in love with the city there and then. Later that year, I moved to Tarragona where I spent two years working as an English language teacher. What I liked about the city, in addition to the historical atmosphere in the old town, is the quality of life here – good cafes and restaurants, easily accessible beaches and the sky is clear blue for the greater part of the year – winter and summer. I returned to Tarragona in February 2007 to take up a new challenge.
What is your occupation?
Director of International House Tarragona, one of the largest language schools in the city.
Who is your typical client (or in your case student)?
The school enjoys an excellent reputation with regard to Young Learners, who make up 75% of our students. In addition to adult classes, one-to-one classes we also have numerous local companies among our clients. Most of the students study English, but we have recently started teaching French and German once again and we also give Spanish classes. Indeed, in the summer, the school hosts a very successful Spanish Summer Course for Teenagers aged between 13 and 17, who come from all over the world to study Spanish and experience the summer culture in Tarragona.
How would you sum up your town?
A great place to live if you are looking for somewhere cultural and with a good quality of life but without the urban problems often associated with larger cities.
Are there many expat families living in Tarragona and surrounding areas?
There are a number of expat families in the region with family members working in foreign-owned chemical and industrial companies, predominantly German and French. English-speaking families living locally tend to have parents who work as teachers.
Are the expats integrated into Catalan society or do they tend to socialise mainly with one another?
Living in a small city like Tarragona, it’s easier to get to know people as you see the same faces on the Rambla every week. I would say that expats with families integrate through their children’s school and expats without families mix socially through work contacts, etc.
Are there many meeting groups for expats to network? If so would it be possible to name a few?
There are no groups as such, that I am aware of.
What age group are the majority of expats?
Most expats are in their 30s or 40s.
Are there many expat businesses i.e shops, services etc? If so would it be possible to name a few?
Again, none that I am familiar with.
Are there many young families in Tarragona and surrounding areas?
Yes.
Would you recommend Tarragona for a young expat family? If yes, why and if no, why not?
Definitely. The more relaxed way of life and the fact that Tarragona is a very easy city to negotiate on foot, most things being within walking distance, make Tarragona a pleasant and healthy resort.
Do many tourists visit Tarragona?
An increasing number in the summer and more of them are tending to stay overnight rather than just come on day trips. The appeal of Port Aventura theme park, 10 minutes away, is very strong to groups of all ages, particularly those with families. The decision by Ryanair to expand its operations in nearby Reus airport should also have a positive impact on the local tourist industry.
What do tourists do in Tarragona?
They visit the historical buildings and Roman remains – the amphitheatre, the Archaelogical museum; the beautiful cathedral and its cloisters, the historic old town and, of course, Port Aventura. There are great cafes which are ideal for stopping at and watching the world go by on the Rambla or looking out to sea.
Are there any particular activities you would recommend for a young family on holiday in your region?
There are a lot of free beach activities in summer such as sports or dance classes. The calçot festival in Valls and the traditional medieval fair in Montblanc are very popular with family day-trips, too.
What do you think is the main reason that expats move to your area?
A quieter way of life with better quality.
What do you think Tarragona needs to make it more attractive to the International Community?
To promote itself better and get its name known abroad.