British Expats in Lanzarote Confess Unexpected Longings for UK Life
Emigrating to the sun-drenched shores of Lanzarote might appear to be the ultimate escape from Britain's dreary winters, but for one British couple, the reality includes surprising pangs of nostalgia for their homeland. Designers Richard and Tarnya Norse-Evans, who took early retirement by selling their business and relocating to the Canary Islands, have openly shared that while they cherish their new life, they miss several aspects of the UK – including the famously unpredictable weather.
The Allure and Reality of Island Living
For many Britons, the dream of swapping rainy days for perpetual sunshine remains out of reach, but Richard and Tarnya made it a reality. Settling in balmy Lanzarote, where temperatures seldom dip into single figures, they've embraced a climate that promises ease and comfort. However, they've discovered that island life comes with its own set of limitations, particularly when it comes to cultural and social variety.
"When you live on a small island, you need to see and do something different," Richard explained in an interview with the i Paper. "Here, you don't get to visit art galleries, see people, explore cities, or dine in diverse restaurants." This lack of cultural stimulation has led to an unexpected appreciation for the UK's vibrant urban offerings.
Nostalgia for British Weather and Traditions
Ironically, despite fleeing the UK's chilly, rain-lashed conditions, Richard admits to sometimes yearning for a classic British day. He described feeling nostalgic about "putting on a coat and Wellingtons and getting out in a forest for a good stomp and an English pint in a pub." This sentiment highlights a common expat experience where familiarity and tradition hold enduring appeal, even amidst paradise.
The couple's ability to occasionally indulge these longings is facilitated by Lanzarote's lower cost of living compared to the UK. This financial advantage allows them to splash out on flights back to Britain, enabling them to enjoy the best of both worlds – sunny island living punctuated by visits home for a taste of what they miss.
Challenges of Expat Life in Spain
Beyond cultural adjustments, Richard and Tarnya have faced practical hurdles typical of expat life. They noted struggles with the language barrier and bureaucratic challenges in Spain, such as long wait times for permits and paperwork. These issues underscore the complexities of settling abroad, even in a popular destination like the Canary Islands.
According to recent figures, between 6,200 and 6,500 British people are officially registered as residents in Lanzarote, forming one of the island's largest foreign communities. This number swells significantly during summer months, drawing thousands more holidaymakers to its mild climate, which lacks a true "low season." Tourism dominates the local economy, with holiday rentals on Lanzarote surging by 113% between June 2023 and December 2025.
Building a New Life Amidst Tourism
Despite isolated reports of anti-tourist sentiment, Lanzarote remains largely welcoming to visitors. Richard and Tarnya have integrated into this thriving industry by operating a luxurious Airbnb to supplement their lifestyle. "We certainly do not live a permanent holiday," Richard clarified. "Work life still goes on regardless of the weather." Additionally, they own a vineyard producing around 7,000kg of grapes annually, sold to a local wine producer.
Yet, Richard bemoans the limited business opportunities on Lanzarote, especially in arts and entertainment, which amplifies their cultural cravings. Fortunately, with a four-hour flight to London, they can quickly return to enjoy urban delights, balancing their island idyll with British comforts.
This story reflects a broader trend among expats who find that paradise, while beautiful, often comes with trade-offs, reminding us that home – with all its quirks – holds a unique pull.
