Harry Poulton, a 25-year-old British expat who moved to Benidorm at age 18, has confessed to a surprising discovery during a trip back to the UK: supermarket prices in Britain are notably cheaper than in Spain. In a TikTok video filmed inside a Lidl store, Poulton admitted, 'Benidorm isn't as cheap as I always thought it was.'
Comparison of Grocery Prices
Poulton highlighted several items that cost less in the UK, including cornflour at 79p, custard at 59p, lean pork mince at £1.89, and bacon at £1.69. He noted, 'Look at the prices of the meat, the milk and butter - everything is so much cheaper [than in Spain].' He concluded that 'everything is just 10 times cheaper' in the UK.
Reactions from Viewers
The video sparked debate among viewers. One TikTok user commented, 'Food is certainly cheaper in the UK, but the quality of life is much better in Spain.' Another noted that independent shops in Benidorm tend to charge more. A third suggested Poulton might be comparing UK shelf prices to import prices in Benidorm. A fourth disagreed, stating, 'Absolute bull, if you go to inland Spain's non-tourist areas it's a lot cheaper.'
Context of the Expat's Experience
Poulton, a travel content creator on the Costa Blanca, offers tips to those considering a move to Benidorm and to holidaymakers. He previously warned tourists about three 'no-go' areas in Benidorm. His recent video underscores that while Spain offers a better quality of life for some, grocery costs can be higher, especially in tourist-heavy zones.
