Purchasing a Residence in Spain Transformed His Life: “I Haven’t Regretted It”

Embarking on a new chapter in life often involves a combination of self-discovery and the pursuit of dreams, and for Matthew Coe, a 60-year-old real estate and corporate lawyer from Wenatchee, Washington, the journey led him to the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain.

Coe’s transition to Barcelona was prompted by the global economic crisis, which affected his job in the hotel sector. Faced with changes in his corporate workplace, Coe decided to explore new interests, including learning a foreign language, and relocated to Europe. Among the various cities he had experienced throughout his career, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Seattle, and Chicago, he chose the laid-back atmosphere of Barcelona as his new home.

“Trips to Mediterranean countries had always been my favorite destination. I could not get enough of the likes of Turkey, Spain, Italy, and Greece. When fallout from the Great Recession brought changes to my corporate workplace, I decided it was time to turn the page on that life and pursue new interests, including really learning a foreign language,” Coe shared with CNN.

His move to Barcelona evolved beyond a mere sabbatical, transforming into a new chapter in his life marked by entrepreneurial pursuits related to real estate investment and design. Coe explored the rhythms and lifestyles of Valencia and Madrid before settling on Barcelona, where he worked as a consultant for a hotel group while studying Spanish and engaging in property renovation projects.

Returning to Hong Kong for several years, Coe decided to establish more permanent roots in Barcelona in 2020, especially considering the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. He found the city to be a more pleasant place to weather the pandemic compared to the strict lockdown in Hong Kong, with significantly lower living costs.

“I have not looked back. I know now that Catalunya is home,” Coe affirmed.

In 2021, Coe made his move permanent by purchasing a 90-square-meter apartment in Barcelona’s lively Sant Antoni neighborhood, a property he renovated to reflect his appreciation for original elements. The renovation included combining rooms, creating a large bedroom with an open-plan bath area and dressing room, all while preserving the original tile alfombras.

Despite living overseas since 2006, Coe doesn’t feel nostalgic for the United States. While he misses the natural landscapes of the Pacific Northwest and his family, he has fully adapted to the Spanish lifestyle. Barcelona’s vibrant, international community, combined with the warm Mediterranean weather, contributes to the sense of belonging Coe experiences in Catalunya.

Coe’s love for Barcelona led him to establish his own company, VistaFutura, in 2022, helping other expats navigate the process of finding a home in the city. The business reflects Coe’s desire to pursue a fulfilling career in a place he loves.

However, the journey to relocation wasn’t without challenges. Coe had to navigate the visa process to live in Spain legally, eventually obtaining permanent residency. His own experiences prompted him to start VistaFutura, offering support to others seeking to move to Barcelona.

Reflecting on the Spanish lifestyle, Coe appreciates the slower pace and daily rhythms. He has embraced the cultural norms, such as the iconic siesta, and adopted a working schedule aligned with Spanish preferences. While he acknowledges challenges, such as longer immigration lines due to overtourism, the overall quality of life in Spain surpasses any drawbacks.

Living in Spain has given Coe the gift of time, allowing him to travel and discover new experiences. The Spanish lifestyle has become an integral part of his identity, offering a sense of community and engagement that he cherishes.

As Coe continues to savor the vibrant, international atmosphere of Barcelona, his journey exemplifies the transformative power of relocation, demonstrating that pursuing dreams in a place you love can lead to a fulfilling and enriching chapter in life.