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Archives
Recent Entries
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Positive Cov19 stories #2
by Ali MeehanAs a wedding celebrant officiating across southern Spain for destination wedding couples arriving from all over the world, my initial response to lockdown was to launch a Facebook group "Celebrant Buddy".The aim was to connect wedding officiants from all over the world so where a couple could no lon... -
Positive Cov19 stories
by Ali MeehanAs a wedding celebrant officiating across southern Spain for destination wedding couples arriving from all over the world, my initial response to lockdown was to launch a Facebook group "Celebrant Buddy".The aim was to connect wedding officiants from all over the world so where a couple could no lon... -
Helpline Information Service - Mijas
by Ali MeehanMijas Foreigners Department is offering a HELPLINE INFORMATION SERVICE 660 300 086 - attended in different languages, to inform the foreign community in Mijas about the COVID-19 and State of Alarm situation in general. Calls asking about the coronavirus and the State of Alarm situation ... -
Latest Update from the British Consulate - Coronavirus
by Ali MeehanAll the latest information is on https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain and Brits in Spain Facebook. The Q&A document that is pinned to the top of their Facebook page is kept updated and is a useful place if you need information. Here's what the Embassy advise:- S... -
Positive Cov19 stories
by Ali MeehanDuring the lockdown and our free online webinars, I have heard inspirational stories from Costa Women members. Here’s the first three. If you have any you would like to share please comment below and I can be in touch. Using what Skills you have Firstly, Marjan Looije - M...comments -
Costa Women Meet ... Marléne Rose Shaw
by Ali MeehanMeet Marléne Rose Shaw, therapist and self-help author. Marléne helps people gain confidence and learn how to be more assertive, especially in relationships with partners, friends and family. She works with individual clients and with couples. Marléne where di... -
2020 Coronavirus (COVID-19)
by Ali MeehanWe are in this together and can best get through it together. Following the Government's decree on Saturday 14th March as described in this report, life in Spain has changed and over the coming year over half of us may experience the dry cough, sore throat and tiredness s...comments -
FCO advises against all but essential travel to Spain
by Ali Meehan15 March 2020 The FCO has updated its Travel Advice to advise against all but essential travel to Spain, following the restrictions put in place by the Spanish government in response to the outbreak of coronavirus (Covid-19). For more information visit (https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-adv... -
Costa Women Meet ... Lauren Cirkot
by Ali MeehanMeet Lauren Cirkot - formerly from America but now living in Valencia, Lauren believes in the power of always finding adventure and in the video shares a lovely challenge she used to build up her courage. Whilst Lauren suffers from an illness she has still managed to travel to 26 differe... -
Pound slumps to fresh lows after UK leaves the EU
by Ali MeehanThe pound has been on a downtrend for the last couple of weeks, with markets focused on trade negotiations between the UK and European Union following the UK’s exit on 31st January. This has seen GBP/EUR plummet from 1.19 to 1.17 and EUR/GBP edge to 0.85. Meanwhile, GBP/USD fell from 1.32 to... -
International Women's Day - Meet the Speakers (Part II)
by Ali MeehanThe second in our 'Meet the Speakers' series we will introduce the next three Speakers for our 8th International Women's Day Conference, taking place on 12 March and workshops during the morning of 13 March. Find out more about the Conference, how to enjoy time working... -
Update from the British Embassy regarding Brexit
by Ali MeehanBrexit: where we are now As you will know, the UK left the EU last Friday at 23:00 (CET), so it seems like the right time to send you an update on what this means for UK nationals living in Spain. The Withdrawal Agreement which sets out how the UK leaves the EU has been agreed by both the UK and E... -
International Women's Day 2020 - Meet the Speakers (Part 1)
by Ali MeehanIn the first of our 'Meet the Speakers' Series we will meet the first three of Speakers for our 8th International Women's Day Conference, taking place on 12 March. Find out more about the Conference, meet all the speakers and book your place here 1230.co.uk/spain-2020 The Co... -
UK service sector recovery lifts pound vs euro, US dollar ahead
by Ali MeehanUK service sector recovery lifts pound vs euro, US dollar ahead of BoE decision The appeal of the pound proved muted as investors continued to weigh up the odds of the Bank of England (BoE) cutting interest rates at its January meeting. Weaker German business sentiment signals put pressure on the ... -
Pound starts 2020 on a sour note as Brexit uncertainty returns
by Ali MeehanThe pound has been driven lower over the last couple of weeks as Brexit related uncertainty and a dovish Bank of England (BoE) take their toll on the currency. This has seen GBP/EUR slump from 1.18 to 1.16 as EUR/GBP accelerated to 0.85. Meanwhile, GBP/USD has slipped from 1.32 to 1.29, whilst EUR... -
Costa Women 2019 Review
by Ali MeehanHappy 2020, a big new year with 366 days to start a new decade and celebrate the 10th anniversary year of Costa Women. Before we begin and rush headlong into the roaring 20s, celebrate with me our 2019 highlights, achievements and special moments including our membership now reaching 8,500 Cos... -
Pound tumbles from three-year high
by Ali MeehanPound tumbles from three-year high on renewed no-deal Brexit fears The pound has traded in a wide range over the last month as the currency was rocked by a general election and no-deal Brexit jitters. This saw the GBP/EUR climb as high as 1.20 before retreating back to 1.17, while EUR/GBP accelera... -
Pound falls from multi-year highs as Brexit returns to the spot
by Ali MeehanOver the past month GBP movement has been dominated by the UK general election. The pound soared after it was revealed that the Conservatives had secured a landslide victory against the Labour Party in the 12th December election. This saw GBP/EUR climb from €1.16 to a thre... -
Costa Women Meet ... Tricia Audette
by Ali MeehanTricia Audette is passionate about education and theatre and has woven the two together in her own special brand of ‘learning through comedy’. As well as having a love of butterflies she has also a connection to Albert Einstein. Let’s hear more from this Canadian now living i... -
Costa Women Meet ... Fionnula Fitzsimons
by Ali MeehanMeet Fionnula Fitzsimons, one of our Alicante based members who founded the Darkness into Light Charity in Spain in 2018 in memory of her brother. The charity provides an opportunity for people to connect with their local community and to show their support for those who ha... -
Pound resilient in spite of election speculation
by Ali MeehanStaying on top of the latest currency news can help you time your transfers more effectively, so find out what you should be looking out for over the next couple of weeks… Latest currency news from Currencies Direct Over the past month GBP movement has been dominated by politics ... -
Costa Women Meet ... Valentina Ruffoni
by Ali MeehanToday we are talking to Valentina Ruffoni who Ali met as part of a networking challenge! Valentina is formerly from UK and now lives in Madrid. She is the Founder of Eat Out Madrid and co-chapter host for CMX Connect Madrid which is for community builders and community curious ... -
Costa Women Meet ... Sarah Farrell
by Ali MeehanMeet Sarah Farrell one of our members living in the Alicante, Costa Blanca. Sarah has a travel guide and blog and has recently released the Secret Spain Travel Guide series. Before moving to Spain Sarah was a journalist in England. Working for newspapers in Swindon and Portsmo... -
UK Political Developments Continue to Drive Pound
by Ali MeehanUK Political Developments Continue to Drive Pound The Pound (GBP) struggled to gain last week after Q3 UK GDP showed the slowest rate of growth in nearly a decade, while ongoing political developments ahead of the 12th December general election continued dominating headlines. Latest currency... -
Costa Women Meet ... Kati van der Hoeven
by Ali MeehanWhat is Locked-In syndrome? Meet Kati van der Hoeven former model and one of the most positive and happy women I know. How does she cope with, at 20 years old, losing the power to move and speak. Read highlights from her inspirational story. I was born and ...comments -
Costa Women Meet ... Cepee Tabibian
by Ali MeehanHaving seen her posts on Instagram, I’ve been wanting to interview Cepee for some time. Cepee has created a community called She Hit Refresh that connects like-minded women, age 30 and over who want to break free from routine and start a life of travel. Cepee is formerly from Houst... -
Costa Women Meet ... Cristina Hodgson
by Ali MeehanOne of the authors from our Spain & Me second ebook, Cristina Hodgson, is a published author in her own right. She has 6 books in publication and her latest book is just out (inspired by a Costa Women challenge!). I talked to her about Cordoba, why “Never g... -
Costa Women Meet ... Sonja Breuer
by Ali MeehanSonja Breuer is a Ayurveda Expert and the owner of 'Tapas Ayuveda & Yoga Eco Farm' She is bringing numerous Ayurveda events to Spain so I wanted to find out more about 'Ayurveda' and what benefits it provides to our health and wellbeing. Hello Sonja, how did you end up ... -
Breast Cancer Awareness - My Story from Janet Saleeba
by Ali MeehanJan is originally from Manchester England. She moved to Australia 18 years ago and at the end of 2018 moved to Marbella. Jan was diagnosed with cancer in 2018. Jan is now on a mission is to inspire and support over 2000 people to live a Healthy Active Lifestyle. I supp... -
Breast Cancer Awareness - My Story from Maria Bailey
by Ali MeehanMaria Bailey is 63 and lives in Benalmadena. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. At the time she was spending most of the year in the UK, staying in Spain for extended breaks several times a year. Maria attended routine breast screening in April, then headed off to Spain ... -
Costa Women Meet ... Joy Ogeh-Hutfield
by Ali MeehanMaking it Happen is Joy Ogeh-Hutfield - a world class Transformation Coach and one of UK’s most inspirational authors and International Speaker. Trained by the renowned International Coach Anthony Robbins and accredited coach by the International Coaching Federation, Joy Ogeh-Hutf...comments -
Costa Women Meet ... Luisa Machen
by Ali MeehanThis week, I talked to Luisa Machen, one of the AECC Pink Ladies team, a new department run by foreign volunteers of the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC - Asociación Española Contra el Cancer). The Association can help at whatever point you are at in your cancer d... -
UK Nationals Support Fund
by Ali MeehanThe Foreign and Commonwealth Office has announced the launch of the UK Nationals Support Fund to help UK Nationals living in the EU/EFTA to register or apply for residency in their host country, whether we leave the EU with or without a deal. Up to £3 million of grant funding will be mad... -
Costa Women Meet ... Sarah Houldcroft
by Ali MeehanToday, in the 'Make it Happen' studio I met Sarah Houldcroft - an Independent Publisher at goldcrestbooks.com She is also a Business Book Coach - turning business experts into expert authors and the designer for our colouring pages in the Costa Women 2020, Make It Happen Planner. Hell... -
Costa Women meet ... Julie McSorley
by Ali MeehanOn leaving Harrow College of Art, Julie McSorley worked as a freelance illustrator for several Fleet Street publications. She has lectured on numerous university art programs, and her research in art education includes a Ph.D. A children’s book Julie illustrated for Angus & Robertson&nbs... -
Costa Women Meet ... Jo Jo Ellis
by Ali MeehanThis week's interview is with Jo Jo Ellis. Since 2009, Jo Jo has been helped entrepreneurial women and women in the coaching and therapy industry break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back from achieving their business and life goals. Hello I’m Jo, or JoJo, an... -
FREE Menopause Retreat Day for 2 Women
by Ali MeehanMeet Dee Gardner, founder and CEO of Europe's leading Menopause Retreat company, Fountain Retreats, who are launching in Malaga on September 4th at the luxurious 'Palms' resort. Dee has created a retreat programme to educate and empower women going through perimenopause and menopause. In our in...comments -
Costa Women 2020 Planner & Diary
by Ali MeehanIf you are a paper addict like me, you will be excited to hear that we have our second Costa Women Planner ready for 2020. The planner will help you plan, organise and make a commitment to create your best year ever. Amazing years don’t just happen by chance; we are the ones who ... -
Costa Women Meet ... Leigh Shulman
by Ali MeehanMeet Leigh Shulman; writer, mentor, coach and believer that now could be the time to tell your story! And when you are ready, Leigh will help you find your roadmap too Hello Leigh – please introduce yourself I’m Leigh Shulman! I’m a life long writer and traveler.&nb... -
Costa Women Meet ... Maaret Auvinen
by Ali MeehanMeet Maaret Auvinen, originally from Finland now living in Mijas. Maaret is a people person in more ways than one and is now using her skills with horses to help people reconnect with themselves. Why Spain? I moved here 12 years ago with my family for health reasons. The la... -
Update from the British Embassy - Convenio Especial, Andalucia
by Ali MeehanMessage from the British Embassy about Convenio Especial You may be aware that the Servicio Andaluz de Salud has recently changed its policy regarding the application of the Convenio Especial in the region. We understand this has been an important issue for UK nationals in the regio... -
Costa Women Meet ... Natalia Geiger
by Ali MeehanIn our latest interview with a member of costawomen.com, I talk to Natalia Geiger, a self-confessed nature lover and an adventuress of life. She loves to laugh, learn and connect with others through authentic heart-centred conversations. Natalia is a Professional Transpersonal Coach who partners wit... -
Costa Women meet ... Marizete Da Silva
by Ali MeehanThis weeks interview is with Marizete Da Silva, former model, mother to two children, Journalist, Healer, tree-lover, body whisperer, transformational leader and encourager of astonishing possibilities with a firm believer in the power of ageless beauty. Hello Marizete - tell us a... -
Costa Women Meet ... Elisa Card
by Ali MeehanOur latest 'Make it Happen' interview is with Elisa Card - Entrepreneur and Founder of ElisaCard.com (and Mum to 5 boys). Elisa's mission is to “Show the World and particularly Women, that no matter what & no excuses, if you have a Passion or just a tiny bit of Dream, IT I...comments -
Ask for Angela
by Ali MeehanAsk for Angela is a safety campaign for anyone (male and female) who feels unsafe on a date or a night out. They can discreetly use a code word (Angela) and staff at the venue support that person by getting them to a safe space. The aim of this campaign is to reduce sexual violence and vulnerability... -
Costa Women Meet ... Kathryn Eade
by Ali MeehanKathryn Eade is an expert in mindset and resilience, and helps to inspire a different way of thinking. She is the founder of Up+thrive and is motivated by seeing people thrive out of their comfort zone, and knowing that she played a part in their journey to success. Kathryn supports female ent... -
Costa Women Meet ... Angèle Cristina
by Ali MeehanMeet Angèle Cristina, Life and Biz Coach, Online Visibility Rockstar and Public Speaker at Wondrous Online Women with a little bit of pink thrown in! Angèle Cristina has recently arrived in Spain. Find out more about her story, choosing love over fear and crea... -
Costa Women Meet ... Marina Pearson
by Ali MeehanMarina Pearson is one of our Javea members. She is a bestselling author, speaker and specialist in transforming your stress into effortless living and being in Joy! Marina is revolutionising the understanding of stress and overwhelm for Mums to transform into unadulterated joy. ...comments -
Costa Women Meet ... The Spain Scoop
by Ali MeehanFrom the blog, our 2014 interview with Nancy and Regina aka The Spain Scoop. What has life been like for two Americans now living in Barcelona? Why Spain? NANCY: Having lived in the same country all my life, I wanted to experience the world anew. Newness meant new food, tradi... -
Four Women, One Camino de Santiago, Four Experiences
by Ali MeehanXandra, Cat, Hayley and Tamasine share their Camino stories, including walking with Rhodesian Ridgebacks and creating a new business with a fellow traveller as they walked the Way of St. James! Firstly, some background on the walkers: Xandra Rowat: I originally moved to Spain in April... -
Costa Women Meet ... Cherry Jeffs
by Ali MeehanMeet Cherry Jeffs - a mixed-media artist and creative practice coach, with a thing about wings! In her artist persona Cherry makes Artist’s Books which in her case are like a cross between origami and pop-up! And as a coach she helps people establish sustainable creative habits, deve... -
Brexit Updates - How to Keep up to date
by Ali MeehanAs many of you know, I was asked to attend an EU Exit Partnership Conference with the British Embassy last week. Please find below 5 key EU Exit messages from the day. Things could change during the course of this week and therefore please stay up to date by signing up for update... -
Costa Women Meet ... Tricia Gabbitas
by Ali MeehanBorn in Halifax, Yorkshire, Tricia Gabbitas began writing at 13 while at school and has never stopped. As she says “Poetry is my passion”. To date she has written almost 1,000 poems, many for use in greeting cards and for some time she wrote for various card manufacturers. Her original v... -
Costa Women Meet ... Helena Demuynck
by Ali MeehanIn our Make it Happen Interview series, today's chat is with Helena Demuynck. Helena describes herself as a dedicated, visionary Leadership Coach with a proven record of facilitating Senior Leaders and driving groundbreaking advancements in leadership performance and transformat... -
Important Links for Moving to and living in Spain
by Ali MeehanAfter attending an informative event with Mijas Foreigners Department and the British Consulate, I thought I would upload the resources they provided at the event. Please also note the following websites contain regularly updated information by the British Consulate:- 1️⃣Information about living i...comments -
Costa Women Meet ... Elizabeth Wynn
by Ali MeehanMeet Elizabeth Wynn, songwriter, creator and builder of her own amazing space! Never felt quite at home in the UK, Elizabeth thought "when I was grown up I would either live in Spain or Italy. It took me a while to get here but I made it aged 29! It was the perfect time to come. It feels like hom... -
Costa Women 2018 Review
by Ali Meehan2019 has arrived but before we rush headlong into the year, I thought it would be good to have a celebration and look back at some monthly highlights from our exciting 2018:- January - We launched our first Buddy’s scheme! The Buddy’s scheme is to support new arrivals to a... -
Costa Women Meet ... Dominika Miernik
by Ali MeehanDo you want to have a portable business career so you can move to (and from) Spain? This week we chat to Dominika Miernik - a Multipassionate Expat, Career and Business Strategist, Psychologist and Blogger. Originally from Poland she has lived in Rome, Milan, Manchester and London. ... -
Costa Women Meet ... Sharon Brown
by Ali MeehanCosta Women meet Sharon Brown, Founder of the Revival Sanctuary and creator of successful teams and collaboration opportunities through unique experiences, support, teamwork and encouragement to achieve your dreams. The theme for these interviews is “make it happen” ... -
Costa Women Meet ... Dee Coxon
by Ali MeehanThis week our featured member is Dee Coxon, Author of 'Polish the Diamond in your Heart'. Dee talks about finding her own fire and brilliance and launching a business in her mid-life and beyond and how you can too. And download a free chapter along with a copy of how to create a heart centred plan f... -
Costa Women Meet... Katja Rusanen
by Ali MeehanAli talks to Katja Rusanen, Coach and Mentor to ‘Lightworkers’. Originally from Finland, Katja now divides her time between Marbella and California. Katja believes in the importance of trusting your intuition. Scroll to the end to join her free course: Speak Your Purpos...comments -
Make it Happen with Kathy Ennis
by Ali MeehanKathy Ennis is an experienced entrepreneur, mentor and trainer. Kathy has a mission to help motivated business owners transform good ideas into a profitable business. Whether you are just starting out, or are ready to grow, Kathy is all about taking action in your business, so you achieve the ... -
Costa Women Meet... Jill Leonard
by Ali MeehanThis week I chatted to Jill Leonard who started 'Local Fire & Weather Watch' on Facebook in 2012 after the fires which devastated parts of the Costa del Sol. The groups now have more than 35000+ members in their geographically based groups around Spain warning of fires or a... -
Costa Women Meet... Michele Masson
by Ali MeehanThis week we talk to Michele who is President HELP VEGA BAJA a charity registered with the Valencian Authority as a Volunteer Organisation. We chat about volunteering in Spain, loneliness and connections. Hello Michele! How did you end up living in Spain and where are you ... -
Costa Women Meet ... Clare Hoar
by Ali MeehanMeet the founder of Wild Azur, Clare Hoar. Clare talks about moving her family to Bali for the benefit of their education and working with the Ibu-Ibu Street Mums project. Clare created the Wild Azur facial range using the super oil – frankincense. Clare chats about their life in Bali an... -
Costa Women Meet... Emma Plunkett
by Ali MeehanIn this week's interview, I chat with Emma Plunkett, is a British born and educated contemporary artist, film maker and designer. Hello Emma! How did you end up living in Spain? There is no straight answer that I can give to this question, it was more a series of events that led me here: I w... -
Things I have learnt from the World Cup!
by Ali MeehanIts been a busy, ball rolling, goal scoring, moment making football supporters month! Here's what I have learnt from watching the World Cup:- We can all train for what we want to achieve and practice with our tools so we can move forward (remember the early days of social med... -
Costa Women Meet... Hawah Nyambay Bunduka
by Ali MeehanHawah Nyambay Bunduka founded Bunduka Consulting to work with communities, projects and organisations to facilitate positive changes in fragile and conflict-affected communities through women’s rights, community development, active citizenship and peacebuilding. Hawah works primarily... -
Costa Women Meet ... Masha Malka
by Ali MeehanMasha Malka has defied the odds throughout her life. Leaving the only life, and country, she had known, Masha Malka’s life turned upside down when her family fled the Soviet Union. Overcoming the struggles of being a refugee at 17 years old, living below the poverty line, wondering where her ...comments -
Costa Women Meet ... Josie
by Ali MeehanMeet composer/singer and musician, Josie. Josie talks to Ali about her ambitions with Sound of Lighthouse, things she will achieve over the summer and the bus project! And scroll to the end - Josie is giving away a free song from Sound of Lighthouse. Send an email to info@josie... -
Costa Women Meet ... Carrie Frais
by Ali MeehanThis week I chatted to Carrie Frais, one of the founders of MumAbroad.com - the Trip Advisor for parents in Spain! Welcome Carrie Frais – tell me about your journey to Spain – how did you arrive in Barcelona and what made you move here? It’s actually quite a... -
Costa Women Meet... Lynda Brettle
by Ali MeehanHello Lynda – good to meet you. Where are you from originally and where do you live now? Born and brought up in England but worked overseas all my adult life – over 20 years with the British Diplomatic Service on postings worldwide and then once I had a young family,... -
Costa Women Meet... Sandra Danby
by Ali MeehanSandra Danby is an award winning author who specialises in writing stories around the theme of adoption. A proud Yorkshire woman, Sandra is a tennis nut and tea drinker. She believes a walk on the beach will cure most ills. Hello Sandra. Nice to meet you after many years as a Tw... -
Costa Women Meet... Trisha Rogers
by Ali MeehanMeet Trisha Rodgers who has been living on the Costa del Sol since her retirement in 2002. Trisha is a crafter and makes hand-made cards. Find out more about Trisha ... Why Spain? We retired to Spain in 2002 after our daughter, who already lived here said “Daddy w... -
Costa Women 2017 Year in Review
by Ali MeehanWhat did Costa Women get up to in 2017? The answer has to be loads! Here’s some highlights of our monthly achievements and some of our successes. Thank you for continued support – we couldn’t do it without you! January - We also launched 'Spain & Me' (st... -
Cervical Screening - When did you last have a check?
by Ali Meehan2018 looms and with it a remind to get our health back on track. Dentist appointments, health check ups and a desire to get fitter all come to the fore. Medicare in La Cala have put together a guide about cervical screening and why its important to have regular check ups:- WHY I... -
Costa Women Meet .... Rachel Kenney
by Ali MeehanThis week I chatted to Rachel who currently lives in Torremolinos. Firstly I wanted to know why Spain? It’s a fairly long – but quite a romantic - story! Almost four years ago I went on a solo holiday to Tenerife, I was changing jobs at the time and had a few wee...comments -
The Long Ride Home
by Ali MeehanOnce again Dave and Mitch Bull are off on another adventure raising awareness and funds for charity. Last year the father and son team headed off on a mammoth 6500km journey around the perimeter of Spain and in 2015 they rowed two kayaks 52km down the River Segura from Murcia to Guardama... -
Costa Women Meet .... Karen McCann
by Ali MeehanEnjoy Living Abroad is her brand and Karen does what it says on the tin! Meet Karen McCann, one of our costawomen.com living between Sevilla and Ohio. Karen started a blog to share her stories with friends and family back home which has now progressed into the "steady heartbeat of her writing... -
Making your own Diamonds
by Ali MeehanThis morning, after the fires at Mijas and Benahavis over the weekend, I have been thinking about how amazing nature is to recreate itself after a devasting fire where all of it has been burnt away. In a few months, new shoots will be popping up in the now blackened "dead" soil and plants w... -
Costa Women Meet .... Jannice Jones
by Ali MeehanSit back and "listen to the music" in our interview this week with Jannice Jones - singer, songwriter and just about to launch of her new Album with Karn Harding "Woman In My Prime". Fiona talks to Jannice about the "costawomen" affect and how music tells her story about love, loss and f...comments -
Costa Women Meet .... Phillipa Sudron
by Ali MeehanIn this week's interview we talk to Phillipa. Phillipa lives in Velez Malaga where she has created a new tourism website to share all that is good about the Town. Hello Phillipa - tell us about your life before Spain I started my first business when I was 17. My parents w...comments -
Protect Your Business from Cyber Attacks
by Ali MeehanIn the past few weeks, ransomware has stolen the headlines of many newspapers. But beforehand, let's be honest, who was really knowledgeable about online threats and daily online attacks? Or even who REALLY cared? Raise your hands if you think that working from your iPhone or Mac is enough to protec... -
Need to Know - Tips for Moving to Spain
by Ali MeehanRecently, on the costawomen.com Facebook page, I asked for one tip our Facebook Friends would give to someone moving to Spain. The responses ranged from research before you move here, embracing the culture and the all important – learning the language. Thinking about taking the plunge... -
Be Bold for Change at Costa Women!
by Ali MeehanBe bold for change is the theme for this years International Women’s Day and on behalf of Costa Women I have been doing that recently. Many of you know that I started Costa Women when we moved back from the Middle East as a way of making friends; a “social” project if you ...comments -
Costa Women Meet ... Nana Norrbom
by Ali Meehan- Hello Nana – you moved for love from Denmark to Fuengirola; tell us more! In 1997 I came to Spain as I met my husband here. He is Danish too and had already lived here for 10 years so I decided to give Spain (and Martin) a chance; I haven’t regretted it at all! - Befo... -
Costa Women Meet ... Maxine Bygraves
by Ali MeehanHello Maxine, you have been in Spain for a long time - why did you decide to move to Spain I came when my youngest son was two, fell in love with the beauty of Spain and the friendly Spanish people, having lived in the center of London for fourteen years, it was like a breath of fresh air, I knew a... -
Costa Women Meet ... Renate van Nijen
by Ali MeehanHello Renate, lets start with your story of 'Why Spain?' why did you here and where you have come from originally? I am Dutch and after my mother died in the year 2000 by means of euthanasia, which was actually a beautiful and special experience to see her freed from her body that had becom...comments -
Biking with the Bulls for Charity
by Ali MeehanThe Bull boys are off on another adventure to raise money and they need Costa Women help! It's not long now until father and son team, Dave and Mitch Bull, will be off on their epic journey around the coast and borders of Spain on motorbikes, raising money and awareness for the AECC (Canc...comments -
Costa Women Meet ... Saskia Vervoort
by Ali MeehanSeptember is World Awareness month for Alzheimer's. Saskia Vervoort is one of our Dutch members and has found a unique way to raise money for charity and get fit at the same time. Saskia is cycling "virtually" in aid of Alzheimers Research, including a detoured "visit" to the Alzheimer's Research ce... -
Costa Women Meet - Sonsoles
by Ali MeehanArriving via Social Media from Barcelona meet Sonsoles, one of our Spanish members. Fiona talks to Sonsoles about how music and a piano taught her to use her own music to help people as a relationship coach. Sonsoles is now a “organisational development consultant” and works with int... -
Tips for Your Business
by Ali MeehanEvery second Tuesday of the month, Costa Women and friends meet for a Business Breakfast and networking session at El Gusto in La Cala de Mijas. Each month has a different theme and in May the attendees each brought a tool, or business tip to share with the other business owners. The ideas were bri... -
Tips from Costa Women for Life in Spain
by Ali MeehanOver in our Costa Women Almeria group, Jacqui asked the members for their favourite top tip for moving to Spain. Here's some great ideas http://www.spainbuddy.com/tips-for-living-in-spain/ We all have a favourite - what's yours and which new ones would you add? -
Celebrating the end of our 2015 Costa Women Year
by Ali MeehanIn 2015, Costa Women celebrated our 5th year. We were excited to welcome the arrival of 1027 new members to our community of 4382 Women across Spain (or Women looking to relocate here). It was a busy and exciting year and here’s why:- We featured 30 members were interviewed v...comments -
Costa Women 2014 in Review
by Ali MeehanBuckle your seat belts.. its time to review our Costa Women Year! We were delighted to welcome the arrival of 945 new faces, creating a network and community of 3,360 members We featured 50 members via interviews here including the launch of new Google Hangbags with host Fiona Catchpowle. If... -
In the Frame! Interview with Sur in English
by Ali MeehanThis week, I was honoured to have been featured by the Sur in English. Read the interview below, or on page 33 of their digital edition here - http://services.surinenglish.com/virtual/20141114/ (page 33)comments -
Special Kind of Caring
by Ali MeehanWe recently enjoyed a presentation from Cudeca - a Costa del Sol based hospice charity set up by Joan Hunt OBE. Joan's own husband died through cancer and Joan was inspired to create the charity in 1991. The charity has since 1991:- - cared for more than 9,000 patients since 1992 - given support t... -
Creating S.M.A.R.T. Goals
by Ali MeehanWhat do you want to achieve in August? As part of Action August we are going to dip into and create a S.MA.R.T. Goal, or Goals to ensure we achieve what we set out to by 31st August. S.M.A.R.T. stands for:- Specific Measurable Achievable Realistic Timely What does each part of the puzzle mean? ...comments -
All together in a Costa Women Charity Dance!
by Ali MeehanIf you are wondering what all the fuss is about for our Costa del Sol Summer Party, hear more about the event from Eunice O'Rouke when she spoke to Fiona about the event as well as her business on the Costa del Sol:- There is also a new video out about our chosen charity - Danii's Charity - Wat...comments -
New Spanish Traffic Laws Come in to Effect on 9 May 2014
by Ali MeehanOn the grounds that ‘ignorance of the law is no excuse’, all drivers in Spain are advised immediately to familiarise themselves with the detail of the new traffic laws which are coming into effect on 9 May 2014 (Ley 6/2014 modificando la Ley sobre Tráfico, Circulación de Vehículos a Motor y Segurida... -
Healthcare for Brits Living in Spain
by Ali MeehanBrits Living in Spain (an initiative by the British Consulate) have shared the dedicated website for Healthcare for British Nationals in Spain. Click here to find out how you are entitled to healthcare in Spain Visit Healthcare in Spain for more information -
What is the 5 x 50 Challenge and how can you get involved?
by Ali MeehanWhat is the 5x50 challenge? Meet Françoise Sandrine Rajewski who talks to Fiona about 5x50 and living in Spain - watch here If your internet speed is slow, have a read of some of Frans story too here What is the 5x50 challenge? Meet Fran who talks to Fiona about 5x50 and living in Spain - ... -
Hangbags and Shoes
by Ali MeehanYes, you did read that right! Costa Women are launching into the world of Google Hangouts and just for fun, we have nicknamed them Hangbags (rather than Hangouts) and Shoes (Scheduling Hangouts on Air Events ;) To find out more, watch my chat with Fiona Catchpowle, who is our Chief Hangbag host! Ho...comments -
What is KIVA?
by Ali MeehanOne of the charities I personally support is KIVA - KIVA are a non-profit organisation with a mission to connect people through the use of microloans; lending to alleviate poverty. Leveraging the internet and a worldwide network of microfinance institutions, Kiva lets individuals lend as little as $... -
The Future's Female in Spain
by Ali MeehanCosta Women were featured this week by The Telegraph Expat in an article entitled "The Future's Female in Spain" Below is the interview; I'd love to hear your feedback! Expat adventures: the future's female in Spain As the expat network Costa Women welcome their 2,500th member, we look at how Bri... -
2013 was a year for Planting
by Ali MeehanIn 2013 Costa Women grew as a patchwork of different nationalities, living in different regions of Spain, sharing different languages, exchanging ideas and stories of life in Spain. Seeds were planted when 1,135 new members joined the Costa Women community during 2013 representing arrivals from 5...comments -
Costa Women Silent Auction
by Ali MeehanAs part of the Costa Women Charity week taking place 22-29 November 2013, two abstract works of art have been donated by local artist Charli Leniston. The pictures, called Cells Dividing and Sand Dunes, retail for a total price of 750€! The pictures can be bought by silent auction which is taking pl... -
Costa del Sol Business Blitz Month!
by Ali MeehanIf you want to re-kick start your business, are thinking about starting a new one, or finding it hard to get back into the business mode after the summer we are here to help! This month we have three Business focused events taking place in Marbella. The first is what we hope will be a regular tw... -
Is your business 51% Women owned and controlled by one or more Women?
by Ali MeehanCosta Women is all about collaboration, especially with other networks. This week I have been speaking to the Executive Director for Europe of WEConnect International, Maggie Berry. WEConnect International is a corporate-led non-profit and their goal is to connect more majority women owned busin... -
THE Women’s event on the Costa del Sol calendar for 2013
by Ali Meehan250 Women celebrated Costa Women Marbella’s 1st Anniversary Party on Friday 26th July at La Veranda-Verde in the Royal Tennis Club in El Rosario. The night was a celebration of the new Costa Women’s Russian Costa Women group and its fusion with representatives of the 57 other nationalities that co... -
Seven Habits of Highly Effective (Women) Expats
by Ali MeehanSo you are taking the plunge and moving to Spain! And before I get over excited about the fabulous country, wonderful environment, food, culture, wine etc. let’s take a minute for a reality check about working here with the assistance of Mr. Stephen Covey via Seven Habits of Highly Effective (Women... -
What do you do when you move to a new country and don’t know anyone?
by Ali MeehanWhat do you do when you move to a new country and don’t know anyone? The first item on your list needs to be networking. Read more via my interview with nancy todd of The Spain Scoop: http://www.thespainscoop.com/expert-travel-advice-spain-scoop/#sthash.3dTNry2q.dpufcomments -
Celebrating our Achievements
by Ali MeehanToday we are officially half way through 2013! Here's how the Costa Women year is shaping up; I hope yours is looking good too.... Meeting and Greeting We have welcomed 575 new members since 1st January 2013 and have representatives from 59 different countries. Held 30 events including in Valencia... -
How to - add Costa Women badge to your website
by Ali MeehanDownload the badge below by right-clicking on the image and select “Save Image As” (or equivalent based on your browser). Or follow this link Badge for Download Upload the badge to your website and link it back to Costa Women’s Website with the following code: <a href="http://costawomen.ning.c... -
Services Available to Foreign Women residents living in Spain -
by Ali MeehanWhilst a very emotive subject, many have been affected by domestic violence. The British Consulate in Malaga advise that 30% of the crimes reported to them by the Police, which affect UK nationals, relate to domestic violence. The British Consult have shared information for British nationals ...comments -
Guest blog: Relocating a start-up By Suzi Dixon
by Ali MeehanIf you've got a business back home, a move overseas has an added layer of stress. How do you deal with contacts, staff, suppliers? Will your firm survive your expatriation? Start-up businesses in particular are vulnerable. In the first two years of trading, you are building up your customer base and... -
Information on Energy Performance Certificates via Artica Energy Performance
by Ali MeehanEnergy Performance Certificates Become Obligatory in Spain Marbella, Spain--The Spanish government has finally published the Royal Decree relating to a new legislation which will make it obligatory for all properties being rented or sold after the 1st of June to have “energy performance certificates... -
Sharing more Diversity and Creativity
by Ali MeehanThis week, Rashpal Rani Singh (project director and contributor) and two of the contributors Marina Nitzak and Petra Mikat were interviewed about the Costa Women Book - Costa Women - Diversity Meets Creativity Listen in again to the interview here - Talk Radio Europe Have you bought your copy yet? ... -
We Won - Telegraph Best of British - Social Clubs
by Ali MeehanYou Voted and We Won! Back in December I shared a competition Costa Women had entered into. We were up against 40 international Social Clubs for expats. This week I heard that Costa Women won!! Thanks to you for voting and also the comments made. More information here:- http://www.telegraph.co....comments -
Costa Women in 2012 - Looking Back with Thanks and heading into Bright Future!
by Ali Meehan2012 has been filled with wonderful ingredients, aromas, tastes and flavours that go into making the multicultural community of Women that IS Costa Women. Looking back over 2012 I wanted to share with you the Costa Women achievements in which you have all played a part. Putting the recipe togeth...comments -
Is it Time for Reinvention?
by Ali MeehanAs expats we have probably done our fair share of reinvention – living in a completely new country, surrounded by new sights, sounds and smells, new language(s), culture and even food that can bring about change both in our lifestyle and our attitude to living. People choose to reinvent themselves... -
Costa Women Celebration!
by Ali MeehanWhat a night of fun, laughter, Christmas songs and fund raising! On Tuesday we held the Costa Women Christmas Party at Poco Loco Beach in Costabella (El Rosario) Here's some photos to share from Danisa Poppleton and also from FOTOGRAFITI here Thanks to the generosity of sponsors* and the Ladies wh... -
We lost our home in the Malaga Fires!
by Ali MeehanSue and Peter Doran, with their daughter Justine, moved to Spain 9 years ago for a quieter life. They wanted to share more time together as a family. However, 6 weeks before the move from Lincolnshire, Pete had a heart attack and had to have stents put in. That sealed the families plans as "We fi... -
Adding your Business as a Listing under the Business & Offers page
by Ali MeehanThe Costa Women community work hard to promote and support other members businesses and the products and services which they provide, including the opportunity to present, or be part of our local events. If you want to add your Business under the Directory & Offers page (this is currently a free... -
Spain is one of the best places to Live!
by Ali MeehanMy name is Ali Meehan and I’m an expat-aholic. Over the last 15 years I have lived in Australia, Spain, Dubai, Thailand and back to Spain, which is now where I call “home”. My expat story really started with photos, memories and friends sharing my parents’ life in Libya during the 1950s. Exotic land... -
Costa Women supporting local Family
by Ali MeehanAs mentioned previously, Costa Women have committed to help Sue Doran and her family who lost their house, built by her husband, together with their entire belongings and their car in the Malaga fires. Tragically, the fire destroyed Pete Doran’s trade tools, meaning he was unable to return to his s... -
Facebook for Business
by Ali MeehanFacebookforBusiness_Upload.pdfcomments -
What does Costa Women mean to You?
by Ali MeehanIn September 2010, Costa Women was just an idea with lots of questions as to whether it would "work" and if I build a platform will they come? I never imagined we would be heading towards (woo hoo I have since welcomed) 1000 members nearly 2 years later with Women joining us from all over Spain an... -
Life's a Box of Chocolates...
by Ali MeehanLife’s a Box of Chocolates; you never know what you’re gonna get, so said Forest Gump. Life is all about choices and as expats we have chosen to get on that flight, or in that car and move to a different country, culture, climate and community. So once here, have we found the elusive happiness t... -
How To: Add an RSS feed for Costa Women content
by Ali MeehanOne of the questions you have been asking lately is how to add an RSS feed for content which is posted to Costa Women. RSS means "Really Simple Syndication" and provides a summarised text of new content added to the website (you can also use it to keep a track of your favourite blogs, websites etc....comments -
Cookies!
by Ali MeehanOK not the kind we can eat, however the European Union have now issued a directive which encourages websites to share in-depth details about the "cookies" they deposit on a user's machine when that user visits a website. Cookies we use When someone visits this site, certain standard Internet inform... -
I've added a Group, or joined one... now what?
by Ali MeehanAny member can set up a Group on Costa Women. We currently have over 40 interest Groups. The Groups take on a personality and life of their own based on the Creator and the members in the Group, as well as around the topic being covered:- Who can join? All Groups are open to all members of Costa Wo... -
All the Fun of the Ferias
by Ali MeehanGood Morning Costa Women, For those on the Costa Del Sol, it's the Fuengirola International Fair; one of the best events on the Costa Calendar and not to be missed! Seville’s Feria de Abril also starts this week from 24 April - 29 April 2012. This and all of the other events that mark the start of... -
Success, U and Jimmy Choos!
by Ali MeehanWhen was the last time you told someone “I am successful”? We don’t do we because it’s not quite nice. OK we shout and applaud the success of our friends and family; sharing what they achieved and have done. Then it comes to us and err well …. “pride comes before a fall”, “oh that little thing, ...comments -
Our life on Twitter!
by Ali Meehan@costawomen article with Suzi Dixon of Telegraph Expat about our life on Twitter. Click here to read the article ... more -
Business Networking and Sex: Not What You Think.
by Ali MeehanMen are from Mars and Women are from Venus…what happens when they meet on Earth to Talk Business? This week, February 6th-10th, is International Networking Week - a week-long celebration of the important role that networking and building trusted, mutually beneficial relationships plays in the growth... -
Time; our most valuable possession
by Ali MeehanThe old adage “time waits for no (wo)man” manifests itself every day! As Christmas / Día de los Reyes Magos is finally over and we head into 2012, I hear shouts of “where did 2011 go?” Getting older years, months, days and minutes seemingly vanish partly due to the wonderful intervention of the w...comments -
Introducing ... Mrs. S. Claus
by Ali MeehanI am very excited about this weeks interview. This woman is the powerhouse behind an icon to children and adults since we first saw the fairy lights twinkling in our homes. So from a very scratchy and noisy skype call from Spain to the North Pole (those Elves can be loud)... here is my interview wit... -
Introducing... Valerie Collins - Creating Worlds
by Ali MeehanValerie, did Spain choose you, or did you choose Spain? Six of one, half a dozen of the other. Italy was my first love but when I was 15 we had a family holiday in Benidorm and I started to learn Spanish. I always felt the urge to come back, and spent part of what they now call the gap year in Vale...comments -
Leaving People better than when we found them
by Ali MeehanEveryday we interact with people and as guests in Spain this aspect of our lives has to take into account different attitudes, languages and cultures. Over the last month, I have been overseas and this point has been particularly poignant for me as I have travelled about. I wondered on my jour... -
When's the best time to plant a tree?
by Ali MeehanA friend of mine has organised an event called "who will you be in 5 years time?" Sadly its not in Spain, however this got me thinking about the 100s of possibilities for the journey as well as the arrival (a goal without a plan is just a wish). What would Costa Women or my business look like? ... -
Don't Go Back to Sleep!
by Ali MeehanThe breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you. Don’t go back to sleep. You must ask for what you really want. Don’t go back to sleep. People are going back and forth across the doorsill where the two worlds touch. The door is round and open. Don’t go back to sleep. --Rumi Ever had those moments in... -
Living abroad boosts creativity!
by Ali MeehanLiving in another country can be a cherished experience, but new research suggests it might also help expand minds. This research, published by the American Psychological Association, is the first of its kind to look at the link between living abroad and creativity. “Gaining experience in foreign cu... -
Cultural Aspects of Expatriate Living – The Relationship Between Language, Culture & Communication
by Ali Meehanby Solidbasics International - Relocation & Mobility Consultancy Culture shock can never be completely avoided but the effects of it can be softened. It occurs when one's own cultural values and beliefs come into conflict with those of another culture. The greater the differences between the t...comments -
Living in the Moment
by Ali Meehanby Archan Mehta I ran into Ralph at a conference and he impressed me with his wisdom. A life-long learner, Ralph's presence was mystical, and he seemed to have the answers to life's challenges. Not exactly sure of myself, I decided to tag along and learn from Ralph. Whenever Ralph was in the neighbo... -
Costa Women Promotion in Fuengirola FI
by Ali MeehanThought you might like to see Taina's article in Finnish from Fuengirola Fi about the Costa Women group. Many thanks Taina! Hope this is the first article of many in your Costa career! -
Closing Cycles/Cerrando Circulos
by Ali Meehanfrom Paulo Coelho One always has to know when a stage comes to an end. If we insist on staying longer than the necessary time, we lose the happiness and the meaning of the other stages we have to go through. Closing cycles, shutting doors, ending chapters – whatever name we give it, what matters is ... -
Ready, Aim, GOAL!
by Ali MeehanIt's that time of year again when we look back over the past 12 months and think about what we want to achieve in 2011. Some of us use this time to write goals to put down a marker of what we want to happen during the coming year. The following article gives advice as to how to make achievable goa... -
Tis the season to be jolly....and also very stressed!
by Ali MeehanIf you're feeling irritable, rushed, resentful, lonely, or overwhelmed, keep these strategies in mind to help boost your happiness: 1. Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation is a major disturber of people’s moods. Jet lag, traveling, parties, and over-excited children all make it hard to get your usual...comments -
Where do you live? In a bubble? In reality? Which do you prefer?
by Ali MeehanThere are two places in the world that most expats live: in a Bubble or in Reality. It can be wonderful to live in a bubble. In a bubble, everything counts on your perception, rather than the reality. This can be good or bad, depending on your imagination. You can imagine your boss likes you. You...comments -
Social networking reaches more women than men, study shows
by Ali MeehanSocial networking websites reach more women than men around the world, according to a study released yesterday by comScore. The Virginia-based internet research firm found 76 percent of all women online visit a social networking website, versus 70 percent of men. Women also spend more time on such ...
