A young Puerto Rican woman, known on TikTok as @camilleenespana, recently made waves with a video detailing her positive experiences shopping in Galicia, Spain, after relocating from the United States. "Join me on a shopping trip, which has now become my favorite pastime," begins Camille, who amusingly shares that she has visited Mercadona about 20 times in her first month in the country. "I practically live here," she adds enthusiastically as she strolls through the supermarket aisles.
The Joy of Fresh, Quality Products
Among her must-have items, Camille lists Spanish tortilla with onions, salmon poke bowls, lemon limbers her husband loves, Cape hake she prefers fried, and her favorite pistachio donuts: "I can't live without them." She emphasizes the freshness of the food and the quality of fresh products like meats, mushrooms, seafood, and hams. "From the moment I first started cooking here, I've noticed the incredible freshness of the meats; it's truly indescribable," she stated.
A Transformation in Daily Life
Camille reflects on the changes in her daily routine: "In the last months I spent in the United States, shopping felt burdensome, and I no longer enjoyed cooking. However, here in Spain, shopping has transformed from a stressful task into a relaxing, positive experience." She mentions walking home with bags full of groceries, considering it a form of exercise: "I walked over 5,000 steps and spent less than $50—what more could I ask for?" she concludes.
Community Reactions and Insights
Camille's testimony sparked a wave of comments on TikTok, with many highlighting the positive aspects of life in Spain, particularly related to food and access to fresh, healthy products. "My fridge is always full," one user noted, while another declared, "You eat well there. I'd retire in Granada or anywhere in the south." Others mentioned the excellent prices and the variety of sugar-free, organic, and vegan options.
Despite the praise, some critical opinions emerged. One user commented, "Mercadona is the worst, switch supermarkets," while another responded, "That's your problem." Other users took the opportunity to inquire about the cost of living, work, and housing in Galicia, though the creator did not directly address these questions in her video.
Nostalgia was a common sentiment among those who had lived in Spain. "I've been back in PR for two weeks after months in Spain, and I'm already missing Mercadona," one follower wrote. Another added, "I miss Mercadona."
Past Experiences and Future Plans
This new video complements previous testimonies shared by Camille. In a viral video from July, she explained her decision to leave the United States: "I once heard you go to the U.S. to make money and to Spain to live, and that is precisely my intention. I came to Spain to live, to find the joy I lost in the hustle while chasing the American dream."
More recently, in an August video, she detailed the expenses associated with the non-lucrative visa she used to relocate. She mentioned that the total application cost was $1,479.57 for two people, excluding airfare and health insurance, which she also prepaid: "With Sanitas, it was around $2,200 or $2,300 for two people with full coverage, including medicine and dental plans."
Through her personal, relatable, and transparent style, @camilleenespana has connected with thousands interested in migration, quality of life, and adapting to life in Spain, particularly in Galicia, where she currently resides.
Life in Spain: Frequently Asked Questions
What makes shopping in Spain a relaxing experience?
Shopping in Spain is relaxing due to the availability of fresh and high-quality products, the welcoming atmosphere of supermarkets like Mercadona, and the slower pace of life that allows for more leisurely shopping experiences.
How does the cost of living in Galicia compare to the United States?
Although not directly addressed by Camille, many find the cost of living in Galicia to be lower than in the United States, with affordable groceries and reasonable housing options contributing to a more manageable lifestyle.
What visa did Camille use to move to Spain, and what were the associated costs?
Camille moved to Spain using a non-lucrative visa, which cost $1,479.57 for two people. Additional expenses included airfare and health insurance, with a complete coverage plan costing around $2,200 to $2,300 for two individuals.