Dog Days In The Fortunate Islands

It had all started with my dream; that age-old dream of retiring to live in the sun. In that, we were no different from probably millions of others. But a dream such as that is usually destined to remain just that, a pipe dream, unless one can come up with a plan to bring the dream to reality…

In this travel memoir, John Searancke takes readers on a journey from the English Midlands, all the way through mainland Spain in a classic car to the north of Tenerife. With colourful characters and amusing anecdotes paving the way to a new life, the story of his retirement is bursting with laughter, love and a good measure of doggy derring-do!

Dog Days In The Fortunate Islands follows John and his wife Sally, who are both determined to end a life at the grindstone in grimy and wet Lancashire. Together with their beloved Jack Russell/Staffie cross, Freddie, a rescue dog from the local RSPCA, they decide to sell up and make the move to the north of Tenerife. Relaxed and surrounded by stunning coastal views, life in their new hidden paradise is very different indeed – with ideal all year round weather, friendly locals and outrageously low living costs, what more could they ask for?

Adjusting to a new life abroad, and all that goes with it, is explained… from buying a new home and sorting out living taxes, to integrating into the local community and taking the dreaded Spanish driving test. Follow John and Sally as they learn a new language and take on a couple of new hobbies, while Freddie takes off on some unbelievable (but true!) exploits with his new canine friends. While nothing can be perfect, John and Sally’s lives are much enriched by their move to The Fortunate Islands – but can they continue to stand the pace of this tranquil life?