Born in the Soviet Union (now Ukraine), George Nayda moved to the Netherlands when he was just 10; he has had global experience, living even in Singapore. Eventually he decided to move to paradisiacal Costa del Sol, where he has resided in bliss for the last 9 years.
George: “I’ve always had an international mindset. The first time I visited the Costa del Sol was with my mum when I was 16, and again when I was 18. I still remember my friend telling me I should consider real estate here one day because I was multi-lingual. At the time, it didn’t resonate; it’s funny how life works out in the end.”
EWN: But specifically why Spain?
George: “I saw an online ad for a portfolio manager for alternative investments in Marbella selling an off-plan project in North Brazil to European investors. After living in Singapore, I was used to hot weather, and even though I’m very grateful for having grown up in the Netherlands, it just didn’t feel like home anymore. The moment I saw that ad, I knew it was right, and I booked a flight, passed the interview, and got the job.”
Falling in love with Spanish culture and the magic Andalucian atmosphere
“What drew me first was the climate and food, but what made me fall in love with Spain was the Luna Mora Festival in Guaro in 2016 with 20,000 candles lighting up the village, live music, food stalls, and that magic Andalucian atmosphere. That night, I finally understood what Spain was really about, something most tourists never get to see.”
“After a year in alternative investments, I transitioned into local real estate, starting as a telemarketer, working relentlessly for 19 months, earning a performance award, and eventually becoming a real estate consultant and winning an award as well! That’s when everything started to click.
Learning to slow down
EWN: So far, what has been the biggest challenge for you here?
George: “Adapting to the pace without losing my own rhythm in the beginning. Coming from Northern Europe, where everything runs with precision, you have to learn patience here. But once you do, you realise slowing down opens more doors than rushing through them.”
EWN: Is there anything about Spanish life that you would change, if you could?
George: “I’d love for Spain to increase the social housing stock to the European average so hard-working people don’t struggle to find affordable homes. Everyone deserves the chance to have a place they can call their own.”
EWN: Apart from the beaches, what’s the best thing about Spain?
George: “The food is phenomenal; after growing up in the Netherlands, where much produce is greenhouse-grown, the vegetables here taste amazing.”
Learning to speak Spanish – the locals appreciate it
EWN: How have you been getting on with the Spanish language?
George: “Many Spanish people here in the South are warm and open-minded, and it’s often appreciated when I make the effort to speak Spanish (which has improved tremendously over the years).”
“The nature is breathtaking. Recently I visited La Pujerra with its chestnut trees and autumn colours, following the suggestion of my girlfriend. Even after nine years, Spain still surprises me.”
EWN: Can you ever see yourself living elsewhere now?
George: “Spanish music now sounds like home, and through my partner’s involvement in the horse world, I’ve discovered a completely new side of Spanish life. Curiosity and discovery keep me excited about living here. Home is where you build it, and for now, that’s the Costa del Sol. I’ve built roots, a brand, and a sense of purpose here. If I ever move, it would be to a finca inland (but close to the coast), surrounded by nature.”
“Spain taught me that slowing down isn’t weakness; it’s wisdom. When you connect with people, nature, and purpose, life expands in ways you never expect.”
Never a truer word was said, as it seems George has been captivated by the spell of the Costa del Sol.