Inspection Trip?

FXF, who are you thinking will pay for the inspection trip?  Your employer?  Most people I know who do this do it on their own coin.  If your company pays for it, check with them what the obligations are. 

You would probably try to do as much homework as possible before hand about areas that you would like to be in, although if you already have a job this is narrowed down to some extent, what schools are in the area and their costs, houses, and you may even try to make appointments with realtors and schools before you go.  You would want to wander around of course...remember that Spain can be freaking hot in the summer, so book your appointments accordingly. 

An inspection trip is a really good idea if you can swing it, we couldn't but we did alright anyway.  I know some people who manage to do several.  It would certainly be prudent, and I would be inclined to do it without the kids, unless your coming for several weeks.  It is tough enough trying to funtion in the heat with the jetlag without miserable kids along as well.  Jet lag and youngsters is trying for a long time. 

Oh, and EVERYTHING is shut in August.  Come in July, or maybe even the end of June into July if you want to go in and see schools.  There may be no one home otherwise.  It'll be good fun as well.

good advice!

A couple of months ago, I received a job proposal in Mauritius (a small island close to Madagascar). As I've never been there before, I decided to go there for a ten days inspection trip.

I paid for the flight, the employer paid for the hotel (as the company is in the tourism area I am not sure they've paid for it).

During this ten days trip, I visited the office, I've met and I talked to everybody in the company. They even organized a "sailing day" with all the team.

Well, this trip convinced me. I'm moving to Mauritius in a few weeks.

So yes, an inspection trip is a very good idea, I am even almost sure it's pretty necessary when you don't know the country!