The last 12 years have been spectacular, says Dawn Punter. From backpacking the world and meeting locals, to looking after a tropical fruit farm & writing books.
Read her story.
Why Spain?
We left the UK in 2013, travelled the world for 5 years (Central America, Asia, Europe & more) with visits to our holiday home in-between.
Everything about the way of life here, the people, the blueness of the sky & clarity of nature’s colours plus it being nearer to our family.
We’d travelled extensively around Spain & also rented in various towns to experience life in the ground.
And where are you now?
We have now settled on the coast of Granada (we’d previously lived in Almeria).
It’s stunning and aptly named the Costa Tropical because of the lushness of vegetation and tropical fruit that grows here.
We have 1. rivers, 2 tropical fruit & 3. sunshine.
What was the biggest challenge for your move?
Deciding on the perfect place. We opted to buy a semi off-grid farmhouse with a functioning tropical orchard (previously commercial farm). It’s extremely hard work as we decided to make it 100% organic & use regenerative farming processes.
It’s been an amazing learning opportunity for complete novices.
Do you have any advice for Women thinking about making the move?
Rent in different places first if you can afford to. It saves you buying on a whim & then discovering it’s not really for you.
Join as many social groups as you can to integrate and of course learn Spanish.
Has the move affected your business?
I believe it’s important to have a daily structure.
Over the years I’ve worked in various animal shelters, either on the ground cleaning & caring, or fundraising and communication.
Cooking and exercise are important elements during the day. I took up writing about food (from field to table) and sustainability several years ago and have so far published 4 recipe/sustainability fusion books in English and Spanish.
Writing keeps me busy, but of course working & caring for a fully functional tropical fruit farm takes up a lot of my time.
I’ve recently been able to take up crafts and am in love with decoupage and a local group where we meet to work on new projects.
What is something spectacular you would like to achieve in just one day?
🤔 I feel the last 12 years have been spectacular, from backpacking the world and meeting locals, to looking after a tropical fruit farm & writing books. I’m not sure what else I could add… I would never have dreamt these experiences 12 a bit years ago.
Something you are grateful for?
Definitely publishing my books – this was a huge leap of faith for me!
Who would be at your special dinner party?
If I could host my dream dinner party, I’d bring together some of the world’s most fascinating minds – and one sceptical chef, to share great food, big ideas, and maybe a little plant-based persuasion.”
1. David Attenborough – Legendary environmental storyteller with decades of inspiring work on nature and conservation.
2. Jane Goodall – Iconic primatologist and global conservation leader, bringing wisdom and hope.
3. Miyoko Schinner – Plant-based cheese pioneer blending culinary creativity with sustainability. And a fascinating businesswoman!
4. Leonardo DiCaprio – Actor and outspoken environmental activist with global influence.
5. Stephen Fry – Brilliant conversationalist, bringing intelligence, wit, and warmth.
6. Gordon Ramsay – Famous chef known for his resistance to plant-based eating; it would be the perfect chance to win him over with an incredible plant-based meal. 😉
What’s your secret weapon or accomplishment?
Determination & sheer will power 😆 I’ve been described as a Duracell battery that never stops!
Do you have a mantra you live by?
Always believe you can!
One thing you had to bring to Spain and could never give away?
Faith to step outside my comfort zone – I believe we all need to trust that we can do this & that it keeps us moving forward.
Do you have a favourite book?
I have too many books to mention … I’m currently reading The Hoopoe in the Nispero Tree by Sabina O. because it reminds me of our expectations setting up life in rural Spain.
Something you would tell your younger self?
You can do it!
Thank you Dawn Punter where can we find out more?
@DawnsPlantKitchen (IG, TikTok & Facebook page)
@Dawn Punter Cooks (my Facebook Profile)
My books are available on Amazon & locally here in Spain
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And read more Costa Women stories in our regular interview feature!
