Letters from the Atlantic

'Letters from the Atlantic' is an amusing and sometimes shocking reflection of life for those who are tempted by sunshine and a lower cost of living to live and work abroad. Barrie's temptation for a life in the sun led to many pitfalls and disasters, as well as learning more about his fellow 'ex-pats' and the Spanish people and their culture. The book recounts his adventures from leaving the UK in a series of letters. These letters are intended to be an inspiration for those tempted by a life in the sun, as well as some cautionary advice based on Barrie's real life experiences in Spain and the Canary Islands. This is not a travel book, but a well-observed view on people, society and the culture of living in another country. Barrie's work as a reporter and editor of an English language newspaper in Spain led him to meet a wide range of people, some amazing and some weird, but most who had stories and experiences to share with others. This book reflects how communities living abroad support each other especially when they live in nationalist enclaves. "A little piece of Britain" mentality exposes some wonderfully positive aspects of life abroad, as well as some disturbing issues that made Barrie feel sometimes embarrassed to be British. 'Letters from the Atlantic' offers an amusing and reflective view of living abroad for foreigners living in a country with a different language, a different culture, different legal systems and more importantly, a different pace of life. The frustrations of those from Britain and Ireland, as well as those from other north European countries can often lead to great unhappiness and disappointment of dreams spoiled or unfulfilled. This book sets out clearly the 'dos' and 'don'ts' for those who are contemplating moving abroad, as well as for those who have already made their choice for a life in the sun. The advice and suggestions are meant to encourage and support, as well as to entertain and amuse.