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In August, we drink our „café con leche“ with Manuel Geimer, a passionate physiotherapist and musician who has lived on the Costa Blanca for many years. Hellmut Krüger from Costablanca magazine talks to him about his reasons for moving to Spain, his professional and musical activities and the quality of life in Denia.
Manuel gives us a personal insight into his experiences and provides valuable tips for all those dreaming of a life in the sunny south. Find out more about life on the Costa Blanca from the perspective of a long-time resident and all-rounder.
Hello Manuel! Nice of you to take the time
for this interview. In our new project, we would like to introduce people who have been living on the Costa Blanca for a long time. How long have you actually been here and why did you choose this region?
Hello Hellmut, I would be happy to answer your questions. I have lived on the Costa Blanca for 24 years. The desire to move to the sunny south and bring the sun, beach and sea to my doorstep was certainly one of the main reasons for my emigration to Spain. What's more, my family already had a house here. My parents live in Germany and we visit each other once a year. Back then, in the year 2000, there were only a few countries in Europe that were still in the black economically. Spain was one of them. As I work in the medical field, it was clear that there was a market for German-speaking patients, especially here on the coast. Especially as I arrived at a time when there were still
there wasn't a physiotherapy practice on every corner.
How old are you today?
I am 55 years old.
You still seem very dynamic and full of energy. Has your job kept you fresh?
Absolutely. Physiotherapy and dealing with people keep me on my toes. You have to be a people person to work successfully in medicine. I'm also a musician. My mum always said that musicians age more slowly.
So you're a physiotherapist and a musician. How do you reconcile the two?
It works well if you organise it properly. I have two to three gigs a month, it's hard to organise more than that. My partner in particular is very supportive, she keeps my back free for a lot of things and my son helps with setting up and dismantling the instruments. It's also a family project.
What do you particularly like about Denia?
Denia has a special charm. The people here are very welcoming. When I arrived, I was impressed by the landscape, the sea and our local mountain, Montgo. Unlike on the Balearic Islands, business life is not so seasonal. There are people from all over the world here all year round. I really appreciate this multicultural atmosphere. In addition, many things are well organised in Denia, building sins are fortunately very limited and the protection of the sea and the Montgo Nature Park have top priority.
Would you ever leave Denia as a retirement home?
I see no reason why I should do that. The quality of life here is high and I feel at home on the Costa Blanca.
Have you ever thought about returning to Germany?
Home always remains home. I always carry the beautiful Palatinate in my heart. But often after just two days in Germany, I miss the quality of life here and want to go back.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to emigrate to Spain?
Preparation is the be-all and end-all. Language training, recognition of diplomas and a clear plan are crucial. You have to make sure that there is a market for your skills. It is important to be realistic and not underestimate the financial side. Living on the Costa Blanca is relatively expensive.
Where should you go at the weekend in Denia?
The landscape here is marvellous and dotted with picturesque viewpoints. Hiking, cycling, swimming, exploring the coast - there are so many possibilities. The restaurant and live music scene in Denia and the surrounding area is also extremely attractive.
Thank you very much, Manuel, for this
informative and entertaining conversation.
Thank you very much, Hellmut. It was a pleasure.
So ends our interview with Manuel Geimer, a long-time resident of Denia, who gave us an insight into his life and his passion for the region. Stay tuned for more exciting stories from the region!
Hellmuth Krüger
