spain

Tourism and the car industry (8th largest in the world) are the driving forces as Spain continues it’s journey out of recession. Tourism showed strong growth in 2013 and continues to improve through the second quarter of 2014. Latest numbers show Spain leading the UK, France, and the rest of Europe in number of visitors and spend.

Unemployment in Spain remains high, although 2014 is seeing improvements led by the service industries. Spain’s Prime Minister, Mariano Rajoy, has called recent numbers “a reversal trend” and has stated the economy is in recovery.

Spain's infrastructure is strong, leading Europe in many areas. Transportation, roads, and rail are modern and well serviced. The public health system ranked #1 in Europe in a recent Bloomberg study and #5 worldwide as most efficient healthcare systems. USA ranked #46 of 48.

US investors are being drawn to European markets. The UK and Spain are seeing unprecedented levels of foreign investment in the (freehold) hotel and tourism markets. Tourism related real estate is seen as having strong foundations and expected long term returns. In addition, tourism numbers are strong with 2 years of increases continuing into 2014. The first ¼ of 2014 saw growth of 8% over first ¼ of 2013. Interest is focused in higher quality developments/structures, office and retail space, and residential and hospitality in the larger markets.

Spain: From Costa Brava to Costa Blanca.