How to save money in Spain

Easy, limit electricity use! Cook by gas; heat your water by gas or solar;  checking your fridge door seal is in good condition and use the 30 minute programme on your washing machine for day to day cleaning.

Use one of the many phone providers that have sprung up in the last 2 years. I tried Simyo, which was great until I changed my tariff, disaster! Bills quadrupled without explanation and they could not explain. I tried another Spanish provider, Orange, to give me a  Spanish number, essential when replying to adverts, same story as Simyo. I kept my UK PAYG, Orange, which I can use it throughout Europe for 3 cents a minute and absolutely no problems. So why is it a problem for the Spanish provider? Something to do with the Spanish inability to plan I suspect. (A strange but well document phenomenon in Spain.)

I am about to try Digi mobile, looks very good - as many things do in Spain until they feel they have you hooked then the bills start to rise. And download Rebtel for cheap calls.

Some tapas bars offer excellent tapas with your drinks. We can effectively have a good lunch, some nice wine, good atmosphere and all for 10 euros for 2. Doesn't get better than that!

Last, but not least park the car and walk or cycle. That is easy if you live in a town, as we do.