A blog by Jasper van Rijbroek — a Dutch family documenting life in Valencia, Spain. Practical guides on NIE, residency, taxes, housing, and the best places to visit.https://jvar.eu/https://jvar.eu/blog/car-import-into-spain/https://jvar.eu/blog/car-import-into-spain/We brought two Dutch cars to Spain and registered both ourselves, no gestor. It took a summer of appointments, Google Translate and a private parking space, and it was a lot less scary than it looked.Wed, 14 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/toledo-with-kids/https://jvar.eu/blog/toledo-with-kids/We went to Madrid for Shakira and drove home via Toledo the next morning. Our son loved the escalators, we all loved the old town, and I learned that a stroller and Toledo’s hills don’t get along.Wed, 14 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/port-saplaya-venice-of-valencia/https://jvar.eu/blog/port-saplaya-venice-of-valencia/Port Saplaya was our very first address in Spain - a month in a temporary apartment by the beach while we chased NIE appointments. We still think of it as where it all started.Mon, 12 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/digital-certificate-your-guide-to-easy-signing-in-spain/https://jvar.eu/blog/digital-certificate-your-guide-to-easy-signing-in-spain/The digital certificate turned out to be the key to every Spanish government website we needed. Getting mine took an online request and a short visit to the tax office, and the download email arrived before I’d left the building.Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/empadronamiento-your-proof-of-residence/https://jvar.eu/blog/empadronamiento-your-proof-of-residence/The paperwork step that felt small but quietly unlocked everything after it - the NIE registration, the SIP cards, our son's school place.Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/day-trip-to-teruel-with-kids/https://jvar.eu/blog/day-trip-to-teruel-with-kids/We finally made it to Teruel a year after admiring it from the ski slopes at Javalambre - here's what a day trip with a toddler in tow actually looks like.Tue, 22 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/how-to-obtain-your-green-nie-card-in-spain-a-quick-guide/https://jvar.eu/blog/how-to-obtain-your-green-nie-card-in-spain-a-quick-guide/Getting your NIE in Spain turned out to be two separate errands, not one: the number itself, and later the green card that proves you're registered. Here's how both went for us.Tue, 22 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/opening-a-bank-account-in-spain-as-a-foreigner/https://jvar.eu/blog/opening-a-bank-account-in-spain-as-a-foreigner/Opening a bank account in Spain sounded like one of those jobs that might swallow a whole week. It turned out to be very doable with passports, Google Translate, and a patient branch visit, so I’ve written up what we’d do again.Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/marbella-spain-luxury-cars-puerto-banus-old-town-and-malaga/https://jvar.eu/blog/marbella-spain-luxury-cars-puerto-banus-old-town-and-malaga/A family getaway to Marbella packed with supercars, Puerto Banús glamour, charming Old Town streets and a day exploring Málaga.Sun, 30 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/three-years-in-spain-adventures-challenges-and-family-memories-from-our-expat-life/https://jvar.eu/blog/three-years-in-spain-adventures-challenges-and-family-memories-from-our-expat-life/Join us on our journey as we celebrate three magical years in Spain!Sun, 30 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/the-start-of-another-empire/https://jvar.eu/blog/the-start-of-another-empire/Moving from the Netherlands to Spain! Join my freelance journey and discover tips for launching a business abroad.Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/discover-spains-hidden-winter-sports-adventures/https://jvar.eu/blog/discover-spains-hidden-winter-sports-adventures/Uncover Spain’s winter wonderland! Experience thrilling ski adventures, breathtaking slopes, and unforgettable family moments.Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/our-first-month-in-spain/https://jvar.eu/blog/our-first-month-in-spain/Our arrival, unpacking, and our stay in Port Saplaya.Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/our-life-in-spain-the-first-6-months/https://jvar.eu/blog/our-life-in-spain-the-first-6-months/It has been half a year already, time really does flyTue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/our-roadtrip-the-drive-itself/https://jvar.eu/blog/our-roadtrip-the-drive-itself/The big trip in hindsightTue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/our-roadtrip-the-preparation/https://jvar.eu/blog/our-roadtrip-the-preparation/The whole journey in a few blog posts.Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/viva-la-espana/https://jvar.eu/blog/viva-la-espana/This has been a long time comingTue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/passport-renewals-an-adventure-in-madrids-heart/https://jvar.eu/blog/passport-renewals-an-adventure-in-madrids-heart/Embarking on a passport renewal adventure in Madrid led to unexpected twists, but I made it! Stay tuned for the fun details!Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/health-insurance-in-spain-public-vs-private-explained/https://jvar.eu/blog/health-insurance-in-spain-public-vs-private-explained/Explore Spain's health insurance options! Discover the benefits of public vs. private care and what works best for your health needs.Wed, 04 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/driving-in-spain-insights-from-two-years-on-the-road/https://jvar.eu/blog/driving-in-spain-insights-from-two-years-on-the-road/Driving in Spain is an adventure! From roundabouts to mobile phone usage, here are my thoughts after two years on the roads.Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/remote-work-in-spain-learn-about-taxes-and-residency-for-european-citizens/https://jvar.eu/blog/remote-work-in-spain-learn-about-taxes-and-residency-for-european-citizens/Thinking of moving to Spain? Learn about the different options available for taxpayers as a European citizen!Mon, 31 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/double-birthday-joy-celebrating-in-spain-with-family-fun/https://jvar.eu/blog/double-birthday-joy-celebrating-in-spain-with-family-fun/Join me us celebrating two birthdays in sunny Spain, full of adventures, beach days, and cherished family moments.Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/new-year-celebration-in-charming-gandia/https://jvar.eu/blog/new-year-celebration-in-charming-gandia/New Year in Gandia was magical with great food and fun traditions! Exciting adventures lie ahead!Fri, 03 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/navigating-a-car-crash-experience-in-spain-our-story/https://jvar.eu/blog/navigating-a-car-crash-experience-in-spain-our-story/Discover how we handled a car crash in Spain, from calling for help to navigating insurance. Learn essential tips for dealing with accidents!Tue, 24 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/albacete-a-perfect-destination-for-your-next-adventure/https://jvar.eu/blog/albacete-a-perfect-destination-for-your-next-adventure/Explore Albacete: stunning scenery, budget-friendly fun, and family memories await! Discover this charming gem for your next adventure!Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/heroic-spirit-of-volunteerism-a-heartfelt-tribute/https://jvar.eu/blog/heroic-spirit-of-volunteerism-a-heartfelt-tribute/After a disaster, the spirit of volunteerism shone brightly. Witness the compassion and unity that inspired hope in the face of tragedy.Wed, 06 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/navigating-a-natural-disaster-our-familys-resilient-journey/https://jvar.eu/blog/navigating-a-natural-disaster-our-familys-resilient-journey/Join us as we navigate a recent natural disaster, facing storms, power outages, and the strength of community. We're safe and grateful!Sat, 02 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/experience-our-beautifully-upgraded-guestroom/https://jvar.eu/blog/experience-our-beautifully-upgraded-guestroom/Discover our beautifully upgraded guestroom and garden! Book your stay at our place in Spain for a fantastic experience.Tue, 24 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/madrid-a-spectacular-road-trip-adventure/https://jvar.eu/blog/madrid-a-spectacular-road-trip-adventure/Embark on an unforgettable road trip to Madrid, filled with stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and city adventures in the heart of Spain!Wed, 11 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/barcelona-vacation-gaudis-masterpieces-and-culinary-delights/https://jvar.eu/blog/barcelona-vacation-gaudis-masterpieces-and-culinary-delights/Discovering Barcelona: A Vibrant Journey Through Gaudi's Masterpieces and Exquisite Culinary DelightsSun, 25 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/renovating-our-spanish-home-a-year-of-adventures-in-spain/https://jvar.eu/blog/renovating-our-spanish-home-a-year-of-adventures-in-spain/Renovations, breathtaking views, and more.Wed, 07 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/practical-guide-for-new-homeowners-in-spain/https://jvar.eu/blog/practical-guide-for-new-homeowners-in-spain/Essential tasks for new homeowners in Spain - setting up utilities, choosing internet providers, and getting home insurance.Wed, 19 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/buying-a-house-in-spain-valuable-tips-and-personal-experience/https://jvar.eu/blog/buying-a-house-in-spain-valuable-tips-and-personal-experience/Ready to own your dream home in Spain? Learn the ins and outs of the home buying process with our valuable tips and personal experience.Tue, 21 May 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/finding-a-permanent-place/https://jvar.eu/blog/finding-a-permanent-place/One of the most important steps, but make sure you are quick. Houses go fast in Spain.Fri, 26 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/tips-for-learning-spanish-in-spain-best-options-for-beginners/https://jvar.eu/blog/tips-for-learning-spanish-in-spain-best-options-for-beginners/Discover the best ways to learn Spanish in Spain and make your integration seamless. Check out our tips today!Thu, 25 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/torrente-a-hidden-gem-near-valencia/https://jvar.eu/blog/torrente-a-hidden-gem-near-valencia/Discover the hidden gem of Torrente, a charming small city just outside Valencia with bustling energy and everything you need for a perfect stay.Thu, 25 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/las-fallas-in-valencia-a-cultural-celebration/https://jvar.eu/blog/las-fallas-in-valencia-a-cultural-celebration/Get ready for an explosion of color, creativity, and noise!Thu, 21 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/villajoyosa-a-colorful-place/https://jvar.eu/blog/villajoyosa-a-colorful-place/A place where you can experience genuine joy with every step you take.Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/alicante-a-beautiful-place-to-visit/https://jvar.eu/blog/alicante-a-beautiful-place-to-visit/Alicante is a lively city located along the beautiful Mediterranean SeaSun, 03 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/valencia-world-capital-of-oranges/https://jvar.eu/blog/valencia-world-capital-of-oranges/Valencia is known as the world capital of oranges and is a bustling city that hardly ever sleeps.Sat, 17 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://jvar.eu/blog/altea-a-beautifull-beach-town/https://jvar.eu/blog/altea-a-beautifull-beach-town/Altea is a must-see destination in the province of Valencia, especially if you plan to stay for an extended period of time.Wed, 07 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMT