Interview with Gudny Bra
What is your name, age and how long have you lived in Arenales del sol?
My name is Gudny Brá , 24 and I have lived here since August.
What nationality are you and your partner?
I´m Icelandic and my partner is Swedish.
How many children do you have and what are their names and ages?
We have a 9 months old son Emil.
Do you work and if so what to you do?
I do not work but I am a photographer and after I had my son I have gotten very interested in photographing children so now I am trying to build up a portfolio with children portraits.
What was your experience of relocating to Spain with children?
It has been very easy since our son is so young.
How well integrated would you say you and your children are?
We are pretty well integrated. Since our son is still so young and I stay at home with him there isn’t much we need.
What language do you speak to your children?
I speak Icelandic to him and his father speaks Swedish.
Where you live, how good are the facilities for children (shops, restaurants, activities etc)?
To be honest there is not much where we live but we are very close to Alicante and there you can find everything.
Are there any particular activities, groups, classes etc for children that you would like to recommend?
I haven’t tried anything but I plan on going to the mum and tots group in Alicante.
What do you think are the main advantages and disadvantages of being a parent from the International Community living in Spain?
One of the main advantages is the relaxed lifestyle, there is not much stress here. The disadvantages is definitely being away from family and friends.
What advice would you give for anyone having a baby or thinking of relocating to Spain with children?
I would say it’s a very good experience to live in another country but it is also very hard to be away from friends and family. I think it is easiest for children to adapt and the younger they are when you move the better.
What couldn´t you live without in Spain?
The sun, one of the greatest things with living here is the weather , there is always enough light for photographing witch is great for me.
What could you live without in Spain?!
I could live without how long time things can take sometimes.
(Oct 09)
