During August Spain is sunny, hot and full of celebrations, officially many city centred offices and businesses close and their staff take their annual leave. With the Spanish at play it is time for Fiestas throughout the penisula so make sure that whereever you open your Hamiltons of London Franchise office you have information regarding everything that is happening in your town. Whether you are selling houses along the Spanish coast, in the cities or in more rural areas, your client looking to buy a home here will want know what is happening so that they can get a real feel of the area, they will also need to be informed about any local, national or regional bank holidays particularly since they may be moving money around. For both those buying and selling houses it is a time when progress may be slow due to lawyers, notaries and other relevant professionals being closed temporarily. Keep them updated so that they don’t worry, this is part of the relaxed way of life in Spain!!!
Embrace the Heat, Search for the Breeze
Temperatures sore during August and inland it can get particularly warm, humidity can be high along the Mediterranean coast but, a sea breeze and refreshing swim all help. Advise your clients buying a home in Spain to adapt to the true Spanish way of life if at all possible by enjoying a siesta in the afternoon but, staying up later for those fiestas and leisurely evening meals as the setting sun begins and the air cools. At this time of late afternoon and early evening the coast often experiences a refreshing breeze and this is something to seek out and enjoy. Most importantly your clients should remember to stay protected from the heat of the sun and to stay hydrated at all times so that they can fully enjoy life in Spain in August. Hamiltons of London prides itself on providing complete trustworthy customer service and advising your clients about what is happening locally is part and parcel of this. Franchisees should ensure that they have information about everything that is happening in their area throughout the year.
Fiesta Fever
Spain and the Spanish love a party and during the holiday month of August they are in full swing with Fiestas taking part everywhere. One of the most unique is La Tomatina which occurs in the town of Buñol in the region of Valencia during the last week in August. It is possibly one of the most famous and messiest of all Spanish celebrations draing thousands of participants from all over the world to join in with this massive tomato fight. The main event lasts an hour and paints the town red from the chaos of everyone throwing truckloads of ripe tomatos at each other. Messy but, fun! Advise any of your clients who are heading to La Tomatina to wear old clothes and goggles and to book their arrangements well in advance.
Feria de Malaga
This is Andalusia’s biggest summer fair, taking place in the middle of August, it is a week long event with music, dance and lively street parties. This is an historical celebration celebrating the conquest of Malaga by Catholic Monarchs in Medieval times. There are two main area, one in the city centre with daytime activities, flamenco and tapas and the fairground which come alive at night with amusements, rides and live performances, marquess are set up for people to eat drink and dance th Sevillanas. Additionally there will be horse parades, fireworks from the port on opening night and a great atmosphere celebrating Spanish traditions.
Sanlucar de Barrameda Beach Horse Races
Witness these thoroughbred horses race along the shore during low tide while enjoying beautiful Atlantic sunsets!
Semana Grande
Heading north to the Basque country Bilboa’s big annual celebration honours the Virgin de Begoña. It is a nine day festival of Basque culture with concerts, parades, theatre performances, street shows and traditional Basque sports including stone lifting and wood chopping. Enjoy some pintxos and live music in one of the many tents erected throughout the city and then witness the nightly firework displays which light up the sky over the River.
Festa Major de Gracia Barcelona
The Gracia area in Barcelona comes to life in the middle of August with wonderful street decorations transformed by the residents themselves with themes from under the water to fantasy. The party incloudes traditional music, dancing and family fun activities.
Madrid will also be enjoying the summer with three neighbourhoods enjoying festivals including street decorations, music, dancing and plenty of tapas. In Santander one of Spain’s oldest fiestas takes place where landmarks in the city are transformed to stage performances of ballet, opera and concerts, this is an absolute must for music lovers. Meanwhile in Catoira, Galicia Hamiltons Franchisees and their clients can enjoy the spectacular re-enactments of the Viking invations of the northern coast of Spain with costumed warriors and mock battles. Asturias won’t be left out either with their annual party to celebrate their naturally produced cider with the Fiesta de la Sidra in Gijon offering pouring competitions and tastings.
Celebrate August with Hamiltons Franchise
There are many other regional and local festivals taking place throughout Spain in August, enjoy the sun and sangria or sidra and immerse yourself in the fun. As a Franchisee you will be better place to help your clients buy a property here if you yourself are part of the community and understand the local traditions and fiestas. If you are considering opening your own business as an Estate Agent in Spain contact us now for more information at franchise@hamiltonsoflondon.net we look forward to hearing from you.
