/**/rssFeed([{"id":"3745592","name":"SRGEurope’s tips on working from home","screen_name":"","title":"SRGEurope’s tips on working from home","message":"With the world struggling to fight back against the Coronavirus -  COVID-19 many of us are looking to work from home to reduce the spread of the disease.Here at SRGEurope our consultants have been working between home and the office for years so we thought we would put together our top tips on working from home and making it productive.Keep a morning routine Just as if you were getting ready for your morning commute, try and take the time to get ready for work. Have a shower and get out of your pyjamas. Although it can be easy to crawl straight out of bed to work try not to get in to this habit.Choose a dedicated work spaceJust because you're not working at an office doesn't mean you can't have a place you call an office. Don’t try and coop yourself up in your room or on the couch, these are spaces that are associated with leisure time. Instead try and dedicate a specific room or surface in your home to work and make sure your work space is comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.Use AIIf you have Alexa or a similar device plug it in next to your work space so you can obtain updates, ask questions, play music etc. This will help you feel connected to the outside world.Take clear breaks in their entiretyIt can be so easy to get distracted whilst at home that you avoid breaks altogether. Don't let the guilt of working in the building you sleep in prevent you from taking time out to relax. Use your breaks to get away from your desk and get some fresh air, whether this is in the back garden, on the balcony or hanging out of your window for 5 minutes.Interact with other humansRemember: You're working from home, not the moon. Interact with your co-workers, send each other pics of your pets or funny quirks you are experiencing whilst working from home. Overall use this time to keep united as a team and focus on the business continuity together.Also make time for family members that may also be in the house. Children in particular will need reassurance from parents and a little play time in the day during what can be an unsettling time.Pick a definitive finishing time each dayYou might be under the impression that working from home establishes more of a work-life balance, but be careful with that assumption. In lieu of co-workers, who’s packing up and leaving the office reminds you to do the same, set an alarm at the end of the day to indicate your normal work day is coming to an end.Keep a clean work spaceIn our present situation, keep a clean and sanitised desk, mouse, keyboard, laptop etc. Wipe down your work space area at the beginning and end of the day. And finally don’t forget those all-important box of tissue so you can Catch It, Kill It and Bin It!!!Stay safe everyone and we will get through this.","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2020-03-16 12:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMjAvMDMvMTYvMTIvMjIvMzcvMjc3L3dvcmstbGlmZS1iYWxhbmNlLWxhcmdlWzFdLmpwZyJdXQ","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2020/03/srgeuropes-tips-on-working-from-home","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMjAvMDMvMTYvMTIvMjIvMzcvMjc3L3dvcmstbGlmZS1iYWxhbmNlLWxhcmdlWzFdLmpwZyJdXQ","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"3722586","name":"Summer Fun","screen_name":"","title":"Summer Fun","message":"Now that Brexit is over and done with its time to focus on something that is sure to bring us a little more excitement. The weather can only start to improve which means only one thing, summer is coming and it’s time to party!!!There are a number of fantastic local events coming up and we don’t want you to miss out on any of them. The early bird catches the worm so be sure to mark these events in your calendar.Cadiz Carnival 20th Feb – 1st MarchCadiz is just a short drive from Gibraltar and in February the city becomes one big party so well worth the trip. The locals put their hearts and souls into what is one of the most eagerly awaited events in the city, and perhaps the most fun-filled and entertaining of all the Spanish carnivals. Expect to hear carnival music from all corners of the city, and see a huge variety of costumes, some of which are truly works of art.The light-hearted fun and entertainment of the Carnival of Cadiz makes it a unique fiesta and people travel from far and wide to take in the festivities. The whole city is involved. This is a perfect time to get to know it and to enjoy the inventiveness and sense of fun that the people of Cadiz have.Seville Fair 25th April – 1st May The Feria of Seville was founded in 1846, and is made up of 1,051 stalls covering 75,000 meters squared. It truly is the fair of all fairs in Andalucia!It is a huge vibrant event that takes over the whole city. There is music, exploding colour from the stalls, fair lights, flamenco dresses and horse riders. Your senses will pick up the smell of fried fish, olives, paella, Spanish ham, sherry and plenty of manzanilla (wine of the feria, typically 1.5 million bottle are consumed). The fun goes on in to the very early hours of the morning and after a fun filled night it is traditional to wander off in search of churros (flour fritters) and a cup of hot chocolate, before doing it all gain the next day.After a week of constant celebration, the Fair concludes with a great fireworks display over the Guadalquivir River which is breath-taking.Starlight Festival 9th July – 27th August30 years ago, three visionaries got together to make the Cantera de Marbella, an unrivalled auditorium, and to create an internationally renowned music festival...These visionaries were Alfonso Hohenlohe, Julio Iglesias and Plácido Domingo, who presented their project with a Tenor concert in 1983.That summer, all the essence and soul of this dream was born thanks to the STARLITE FESTIVAL.This project, transcending music, was created to become the referential social and cultural event in Europe, held in Marbella.In essence the event is all about bringing first-class concerts with international artists in an unbeatable natural setting, which not only features music, but also unique experiences, serving as the protagonists.Fuengirola International Fair – 29th April – 3rd MayThe Fuengirola International Fair is made up of four days of music, dance, food and fun!This family orientated fair is held in the huge Fuengirola fairground and has something for everyone. From the entrance to the fairground by the arches children will be drawn towards the host of fairground attractions stretching almost halfway towards the Palacio de la Paz, which is at the head of the fairground.A combination of 34 countries and Spanish regions take over the permanent casetas, these are buildings owned by clubs and associations, all of which have stages, bars and kitchens. Each country or region decorates their caseta with memorabilia and flags and provide traditional food and entertainment. Many times the entertainment spills out into the street and visitors get caught up with sambas, polkas, cheerleaders and line dancers. Bands of musicians wander around playing traditional instruments and sometime join up with other groups.The Argentineans and Uruguayans both have huge barbeque pits totally covered in meats and sausages, filling the air with delicious aromas. The Finnish have whole sides of salmon slowly cooking at the side of log fires, and there are many rotating kebabs each sporting a different meat mixture at the many Middle Eastern countries. The Galician kitchen is redolent with the smell of cooking octopus, the Germans serve up enormous worst, a spicy sausage, the USA have triple burgers and pulled pork sandwiches with brownies for those with a sweet tooth, and the Indians have a pungently aromatic curry bubbling away.Go hungry to this fair and try food that you would not normally get the chance to experience, it is not expensive and the choice is vast.Gibraltar Calling – SeptemberIf you are looking for something a little closer to home you should check out Gibraltar Calling. An amazing 2 day festival based in Gibraltar itself. International artists are flown in for the event and put on the best show with the beautiful rock as a back drop for the event.Gibraltar National Day – 10th SeptemberA few days later Gibraltar puts on another fantastic show when they celebrate Gibraltar National Day. This day is all about being proud to be Gibraltarian. There are events throughout Gib and it is customary for everyone to dress up in red and white, the national colours of Gibraltar.The choice of events that are local to Gibraltar and the South of Spain are vast and the above are just a snippet of what is on offer. It’s a great place to work and live. If you are interested in a new Job in Gibraltar or want more information, please do not hesitate to contact us here at SRGEurope.online@srgeurope.com","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2020-02-07 13:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMjAvMDIvMDcvMTQvMDQvMzEvNjY0L0ZvdG9fMTZf4oCTX0dyYW5fQ2FuYXJpYV9DYXJuYXZhbC5qcGciXV0","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2020/02/summer-fun","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMjAvMDIvMDcvMTQvMDQvMzEvNjY0L0ZvdG9fMTZf4oCTX0dyYW5fQ2FuYXJpYV9DYXJuYXZhbC5qcGciXV0","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"3554869","name":"What to do in your spare time in Gibraltar and Spain. ","screen_name":"","title":"What to do in your spare time in Gibraltar and Spain. ","message":"For our Blog this time round we wanted to introduce you all to Clare who is a long-standing member of the SRGEurope team. She is always trying out new activities, stumbling across new places to eat and embarking on new adventures so we asked her to give us her top tips and recommendations.\n\nClare lives in Spain just 20 mins from Gibraltar so all activities mentioned are within easy reach of Gibraltar and the surrounding area.\n\nClare practices yoga in a local studio as well as at sunset or early morning on the beach. It is a fantastic way to meet new people and there are a number of instructors/classes to choose from. The cost of a session is approximately 10 euro so it is very reasonable.\n\nThere are also a number walking/hiking groups that you can join. Andalucía is perfect for this activity and you can really escape and appreciate the outdoors. Clare recently climbed the highest peak in Marbella known as La Concha. Once up there, she was able to write in a book that is stored at the top where hundreds have gone before including the likes of the one and only Mick Jagger! For those of you working in Gibraltar, you also have the option of climbing the Med Steps after work and taking in the amazing views at sunset.\n\nJust a short 15 minutes’ drive from Gibraltar is the resort of Sotogrande, which is known for hosting Polo Tournaments in the summer months. Anyone can attend this event; it is a fun day out for the whole family. As well as watching the matches, there are pop up shops, bars, BBQ’s, bouncy castles and live bands. The polo after party goes on late in to the night if you have the stamina for it!\n\nIf your head is a little sore and you need food there are lots of varieties to choose from. Due to the fantastic weather, you can host your own barbecue for pretty much 8 months of the year. Alternatively, you must try a local Spanish Tapas run and La Linea just next to Gibraltar is the perfect place. You can spend 2 euros on a tapa and there are plenty of little bars down the side streets and in bustling squares.\n\nAlso in Sotogrande is the Guadiaro River. Clare has herself hired a kayak and taken it down the river Guadiaro gazing at some of the luxurious mansions of Sotogrande on route. She did this via an organised group, but local sports shops sell Kayaks and it’s a really popular activity if you wanted to invest in one for yourself.\n\nOn the coast there is a voucher scheme similar to Groupon in the UK known as Cool Deals. They have numerous offers and its worth taking advantage of their deals from time to time to get great prices. There are also lots of Facebook Groups that promote local events and activities.\n\nClare volunteers for Sotogrande Cat Care Society, she helps by feeding at local colonies and promotes the regular quiz nights, pop up coffee mornings and even Christmas Balls. All money raised goes back in to the charity. There are a variety of local charities you can get involved with.\n\nYou can really embrace yourself in the Spanish culture by attending one of the many Spanish Festivals that take place throughout the year. There is no charge involved and the whole neighbourhood joins in. \n\nBack in Gibraltar the Dolphin trips are a must if you have never experienced them. The boat takes you out in to the bay of Gibraltar offering a view of the rock from a different angle and the possibility of seeing Dolphins.\n\nIn the same Marina as the Dolphin boats is The Sunborn Gibraltar, a stationary hotel on a ship that offers hotel rooms, restaurants, bars, a casino and a lovely spa. A cocktail on a Friday after work on board goes down a treat. They have great lunch and spa offers to take advantage of as well.\n\nBelieve it or not these are just a small snippet of some of the activities Clare enjoys. There really is so much to do in and around Gibraltar that we can’t cover it all.\n\nSRGEurope have been finding candidates jobs in Gibraltar and Spain for over 10 years and always ensure we offer up our tips and advice which we have gathered over the years. Contact us for further information.\n\nwww.srgeurope.com\n\nonline@srgeurope.com\n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n   \n\n \n","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-11-01 13:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMTEvMDEvMTQvMTYvMjIvMTk3L0xhLUNvbmNoYVsxXS5naWYiXV0","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/11/thing-to-do-in-your-spare-time-in-gibraltar-and-spain","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMTEvMDEvMTQvMTYvMjIvMTk3L0xhLUNvbmNoYVsxXS5naWYiXV0","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"3546079","name":"Thing to do in your spare time in Gibraltar and Spain","screen_name":"","title":"Thing to do in your spare time in Gibraltar and Spain","message":"For our Blog this time round we wanted to introduce you all to Clare who is a long-standing member of the SRGEurope team. She is always trying out new activities, stumbling across new places to eat and embarking on new adventures so we asked her to give us her top tips and recommendations.\n\n \n\nClare lives in Spain just 20 mins from Gibraltar so all activities mentioned are within easy reach of Gibraltar and the surrounding area.\n\n \n\nClare practices yoga in a local studio as well as at sunset or early morning on the beach. It is a fantastic way to meet new people and there are a number of instructors/classes to choose from. The cost of a session is approximately 10 euro so it is very reasonable.\n\n \n\nThere are also a number walking/hiking groups that you can join. Andalucía is perfect for this activity and you can really escape and appreciate the outdoors. Clare recently climbed the highest peak in Marbella known as La Concha. Once up there, she was able to write in a book that is stored at the top where hundreds have gone before including the likes of the one and only Mick Jagger! For those of you working in Gibraltar, you also have the option of climbing the Med Steps after work and taking in the amazing views at sunset.\n\n \n\nJust a short 15 minutes’ drive from Gibraltar is the resort of Sotogrande, which is known for hosting Polo Tournaments in the summer months. Anyone can attend this event; it is a fun day out for the whole family. As well as watching the matches, there are pop up shops, bars, BBQ’s, bouncy castles and live bands. The polo after party goes on late in to the night if you have the stamina for it!\n\n \n\nIf your head is a little sore and you need food there are lots of varieties to choose from. Due to the fantastic weather, you can host your own barbecue for pretty much 8 months of the year. Alternatively, you must try a local Spanish Tapas run and La Linea just next to Gibraltar is the perfect place. You can spend 2 euros on a tapa and there are plenty of little bars down the side streets and in bustling squares.\n\n \n\nAlso in Sotogrande is the Guadiaro River. Clare has herself hired a kayak and taken it down the river Guadiaro gazing at some of the luxurious mansions of Sotogrande on route. She did this via an organised group, but local sports shops sell Kayaks and it’s a really popular activity if you wanted to invest in one for yourself.\n\n \n\nOn the coast there is a voucher scheme similar to Groupon in the UK known as Cool Deals. They have numerous offers and its worth taking advantage of their deals from time to time to get great prices. There are also lots of Facebook Groups that promote local events and activities.\n\n \n\nClare volunteers for Sotogrande Cat Care Society, she helps by feeding at local colonies and promotes the regular quiz nights, pop up coffee mornings and even Christmas Balls. All money raised goes back in to the charity. There are a variety of local charities you can get involved with.\n\n \n\nYou can really embrace yourself in the Spanish culture by attending one of the many Spanish Festivals that take place throughout the year. There is no charge involved and the whole neighbourhood joins in. \n\n \n\nBack in Gibraltar the Dolphin trips are a must if you have never experienced them. The boat takes you out in to the bay of Gibraltar offering a view of the rock from a different angle and the possibility of seeing Dolphins.\n\n \n\nIn the same Marina as the Dolphin boats is The Sunborn Gibraltar, a stationary hotel on a ship that offers hotel rooms, restaurants, bars, a casino and a lovely spa. A cocktail on a Friday after work on board goes down a treat. They have great lunch and spa offers to take advantage of as well.\n\n \n\nBelieve it or not these are just a small snippet of some of the activities Clare enjoys. There really is so much to do in and around Gibraltar that we can’t cover it all.\n\nSRGEurope have been finding candidates jobs in Gibraltar and Spain for over 10 years and always ensure we offer up our tips and advice which we have gathered over the years. Contact us for further information.\n\n \n\nwww.srgeurope.com\n\nonline@srgeurope.com\n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n   \n\n \n","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-11-01 13:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/11/thing-to-do-in-your-spare-time-in-gibraltar-and-spain","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"3472369","name":"Secure that Job in Gibraltar with an attractive LinkedIn Profile","screen_name":"","title":"Secure that Job in Gibraltar with an attractive LinkedIn Profile","message":"For those of you who use LinkedIn, you will already know the huge potential and opportunities it opens up to somebody who is looking for work. If you do not yet have a LinkedIn account, sign up today and start working on your profile!\n\nWe have put together a few tips to help you get the most out of your profile with recommendations and advice from all the consultants here at SRGEurope. Follow the steps below and you are sure to be on your way to landing your new dream job with the help of SRGEurope of course!\n\nSimply put, the more complete your profile, the better the odds that recruiters and hiring managers will find you. Take your time, and ensure you complete every section to give the most detailed snapshot of your professional life. Your profile should become an ongoing project that you keep coming back and adding to as your experience and achievements grow.\n\nA picture tells a thousand words as they say and this is very true when it comes to your LinkedIn picture. Here at SRGEurope we have seen hundreds of inappropriate pictures and this does not attract the right kind of attention. Our recruitment consultant Morgan recommends ‘always adding a profile picture but ensuring it is professional and of high quality’.\n\nAfter you have set up an account with LinkedIn, you have the option to edit your personal URL to make it shorter and punchier. When first creating your profile you will be assigned random numbers in your URL, which is not easy on the eye or search engines so we recommend your edit this as soon as possible.\n\nMorgan also advises ‘If you are looking for a new position and are happy to be approached, ensure you change your settings to ‘open to new opportunities’ which lets us recruiters know we can contact you freely.’\n\nEnsure you list your previous employment detailing every role in date order. If there are gaps in your employment like travelling, family, sabbatical etc make sure you mention this so we can understand the whole picture. For your current role ensure you include your main duties, do not just provide company and job title.\n\nOur consultant Clare pays particular attention to the summary space which is very important and can make an instant impression. It is your chance to provide an insight in to yourself but always keep in mind your target audience. ‘Make this paragraph punchy and positive. Include what you do, key strengths, qualifications, languages and what you are looking for next. This paragraph should want to make recruiters like myself read the rest of your profile’. Be creative, warm and friendly. One of the biggest mistakes we see is arrogance emanating from a LinkedIn profile. List your achievements but keep them factual.\n\nWhen your profile is up and running you will want to make connections and grow your network. Our consultant Ebony advises you add a short message with each connection request to make your approach more personal and more likely to be accepted. ‘Keep in mind that LinkedIn is for professionals, it should not be likened to Facebook so always keep it positive as well as professional.’\n\nAlso try and secure recommendations and skill endorsements. Our FIRP qualified recruiter Sarah, states ‘I always make an effort to read over recommendations’ which helps her really get the feel for a candidate. They can be extremely effective, but try to make them specific rather than vague. Don’t be afraid to guide people in what direction you would like them to comment on but do not be tempted to ask people you do not know to provide you with an endorsement.\n\nJoin groups relevant to your profession, connect with hiring managers and recruiters to ensure your profile gets more exposure and share articles of interest to you that may display your passion and skills.\n\nFinally don’t forget to include those all-important contact details such as e-mail, skype etc. and above all else make an effort to show enthusiasm. Your linked in profile can go a long way to securing a new job, so make it count!\n\n \n\n \n","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-10-07 08:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMTAvMDcvMDgvMjEvNTAvMS8xMDUyMjYzNTA2WzFdLmpwZyJdXQ","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/10/secure-that-job-in-gibraltar-with-an-attractive-linkedin-profile","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMTAvMDcvMDgvMjEvNTAvMS8xMDUyMjYzNTA2WzFdLmpwZyJdXQ","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"3429279","name":"#Think Gibraltar","screen_name":"","title":"#Think Gibraltar","message":"Here at SRGEurope we are incredibly proud to call Gibraltar our home. Despite the threat of Brexit looming, which we unfortunately cannot ignore, we believe the rock is in a super position to attract business of all shapes and sizes and continue with the success of those who already call the rock their home.Having been located in Gibraltar now for over 11 years, SRGEurope have witnessed the huge progression that has been made and have seen first-hand what can be achieved by 30,000 determined Gibraltarians and their strong and committed government. We have helped so many people find new jobs in Gibraltar as well as companies set up and fulfil their recruitment needs.For anyone who does not know much about Gibraltar, read on… Gibraltar is a 426-meter high lime stone rock located just off the south west coast of Spain. It is a British Oversees Territory with a population of approx. 30,000. It has an International airport with a very short runway making for very thrilling take offs and landings. English is the official language for all businesses however Spanish is also widely spoken, native Gibraltarians can speak a mix of the two known locally as Llanito! It is just 6.8km squared and the top of the rock is home to a population of Barbary macaques!As a modern, vibrant, low tax jurisdiction, it likewise has a first rate professional infrastructure that is fully compliant with European standards of regulation. The numerous international trading entities and financial services companies, already based in Gibraltar are testament to this, and not wanting to stand still, the rock are looking to attract even more business.The Government of Gibraltar has just launched a business development campaign in London called #ThinkGibraltar. It aims to increase awareness of Gibraltar, and attract new businesses to the Rock, which SRGEurope is fully behind.Over the next two months, ThinkGibraltar advertising will appear on the side of around 300 taxis, 100 buses and in 40 commuter stations in London so keep an eye out for them.The focus of the campaign centres around the 5 prominent industries in Gibraltar, all of which SRGEurope specialise in and have many years of experiencing recruiting for#Think Insurance – Think Gibraltar#Think DLT – Think Gibraltar#Think Gaming – Think Gibraltar#Think Funds – Think Gibraltar#Think Private Client Finance – Think GibraltarIf you would like to find out more about the rock, are interested in setting up business or finding your perfect job do not hesitate to get in touch with us here at SRGEurope. www.srgeuropeonline@srgeurope.com+350 200 69999   ","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-09-18 09:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDkvMTgvMDkvNDUvMTkvMTQ2L3RheGktNzY4eDUwNlsxXS5qcGciXV0","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/09/number-think-gibraltar","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDkvMTgvMDkvNDUvMTkvMTQ2L3RheGktNzY4eDUwNlsxXS5qcGciXV0","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"3367190","name":"How Morgan Relocated to Gibraltar","screen_name":"","title":"How Morgan Relocated to Gibraltar","message":"This week we want to introduce you to the latest addition to the SRGEurope team, Morgan Bowden.Morgan has recently moved over to Gibraltar and SRGEurope have been lucky enough to snap her up. With a long history in recruitment in the UK and strong ambition to succeed, she is more than ready to join the winning team here at SRGEurope Headquarters in Gibraltar.What brought you to Gibraltar?I have always wanted to move abroad, however had never looked into Gibraltar as an option. It wasn’t until my boyfriend was offered a new job here that we decided to consider it. After doing my research and visiting for a week we instantly jumped at the opportunity to work in Gibraltar and live in Spain.  Unlike relocating to other English speaking parts of the world, Gibraltar is only a 2 hour flight back to the UK to visit friends and family and for them to come and visit. Additionally, when comparing Gibraltar to Canada, Australia or New Zealand there is no work visa required if you are moving from the UK so it was all very simple.How did you relocate to Gibraltar?We filled the car up, jumped on a Ferry from Portsmouth to Santander, and then drove the 10 hours through Spain stopping at various places to stay and explore. Finding a place to live was very easy, there are lots of useful Facebook pages and estate agents to help with finding the right place to rent or buy.  We were lucky enough to find an apartment to rent in Spain about a month before we were due to leave the UK, which we found through a local Facebook group.How have you found moving countries and adapting to the new life style?I have found it very easy to adapt to the new lifestyle when there are so many home comforts around the corner, Gibraltar has lots of English shops, including Morrison’s and Marks and Spencer. Having the sunny climate also makes everyday life more enjoyable, being able to go the beach or the pool every evening after work means you truly have the best work life balance.Although it is still a bit strange walking across a runway on your daily work commute!  What are you enjoying the most about your new life in the sun?The three things I’m enjoying the most would have to be the weather (It hasn’t rained since I moved here in May!), all the fantastic local food and tapas restaurants and having a pool with our apartment which is something you don’t get as a norm in England.  At SRGEurope we work hard and play hard, how do you enjoy your down time?At the weekend I tend to travel somewhere new, as there are so many places in Southern Spain to explore in a day trip or even go a bit further afield for a weekend break. Places like Marrakech, Ibiza, Portugal, and the South of France are only a 1 or 2 hour flight away. However, sometimes it’s nice to sit by the pool or on the terrace having a BBQ with a nice glass of local wine and some tapas!Any advice for someone who may be reading this article and thinking of relocating to Gibraltar for a new job?If you are thinking of moving across, make sure you do your research into where to live as there are lots of different options locally. Come over and visit for a few days, then start your job search with SRGEurope of course! It is much easier to move across once you have secured a job prior to making the move.We wish Morgan a happy new life in the sun!","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-08-21 08:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDgvMjEvMDgvMzUvNTEvOTMxL0lNR18xMTc5LkpQRyJdXQ","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/08/how-morgan-relocated-to-gibraltar","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDgvMjEvMDgvMzUvNTEvOTMxL0lNR18xMTc5LkpQRyJdXQ","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"3327783","name":"Travel to the Algarve, Portugal in just 3 hours","screen_name":"","title":"Travel to the Algarve, Portugal in just 3 hours","message":"Travel to the Algarve, Portugal in just 3 hoursHere at SRGEurope we believe it’s important to work hard but also make some time to play hard. Our consultant, Ebony has just returned from a fabulous break on the Algarve in Portugal with her family. As a true recruiter she was still working but from the comfort of a sun lounger and with a cocktail or two in hand!We asked Ebony a few questions that may help any of you considering planning a trip to Portugal…How long did it take you to get there? It took us approx. 3.5hrs to reach the Portuguese border and then about 1 hour to reach our hotel based in Porches which is 2.5km from Armacao de Pera.It’s a great trip with kids, as it’s not too long and there is no waiting around at airports.Any travel advice to others planning a similar trip? We set off in the early morning in order to avoid traffic and it is also a lot cooler. Petrol is currently more expensive in Portugal so I would definitely suggest filling your petrol tank up in either Gibraltar or even Spain as it is considerably cheaper.Another positive to driving to Portugal from Spain is that there is no passport control and you are free to drive straight over the border from Ayamonte into Portugal. Portugal and Spain signed the Schengen Agreement in June 1991 which came into effect on 26 March 1995, making Portugal and Spain part of the Schengen area and thus the border then became an Open border.Once in Portugal we decided to stay on the motorway and pay the toll fees as this is a much quicker way of reaching your destination.Can you recommend things to see and do? It’s no secret the beaches in Portugal are stunning but the sea is a lot colder than we are used to in Southern Spain. If water parks are your thing you will not be disappointed with the amount of different ones you can visit and all at very reasonable prices. Try and book online in order to receive online discounts/offers and also to avoid queuing at the venue in the heat.How is the Portuguese Food? If you are a seafood lover you must try the Cataplana, although there are various versions of this stew I tried one with prawns, clams and white fish and it was delicious. Cod (Bacalhau) is also very popular and it is either dried or salted or Fresh (unsalted) - Bacalhau fresco. If you like a bit of spice then you will not want to miss out on the Chicken Piri Piri!For the Sweet tooth, Pasteis de Nata (Portuguese Custard Tarts) will not disappoint. All to be washed down with a cocktail or two of course!If you too fancy living and working in Gibraltar or Spain and having endless travel opportunities right on your doorstep please do not hesitate to get in touch with us here at SRGEurope. We have helped 100’s of candidates change their life and are ready and waiting to help you too.","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-08-07 08:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDgvMDcvMDgvNTQvNTgvMzUxL2hvbGlkYXlzLWFsZ2FydmVbMV0uanBnIl1d","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/08/travel-to-the-algarve-portugal-in-just-3-hours","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDgvMDcvMDgvNTQvNTgvMzUxL2hvbGlkYXlzLWFsZ2FydmVbMV0uanBnIl1d","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"3278895","name":"How To Road Trip Around Southern Spain","screen_name":"","title":"How To Road Trip Around Southern Spain","message":"When you’re feeling spontaneously ready for adventure and a road trip with family or friends is something you’ve always wanted to do, then the southern coast of any country is always a good option! Take Cornwall for example or Cape Town, but more exotic and nearer to home, Southern Spain is a particularly good choice, especially for those who reside in Gibraltar or Southern Spain for work.\n\nNow for some of the SRGEurope team, setting off without a plan is exciting and comes with many memorable elements of surprise on the way. Pulling off the main road and going off the beaten path is how you may like to adventure. Not knowing which little cafe you will stumble upon next, or what you will eat next excites every strand of nerve inside you.\n\nA camper-van gives you the flexibility of parking up in a safe secluded spot and spending the night there before taking a dip in that neighbouring iridescent blue lake in the morning. Nothing beats cooking fried eggs and bacon on the camp stove, underneath willow trees beside the scenic cliff.\n\nTravelling by car is another option if you prefer to stay in accommodation on the way. Either way, exploring Spain’s southern coast allows you to reconnect with nature and beautiful scenery along the coast.\n\nSetting off from your Gibraltar base, you can expect beautiful weather all the way outwards on your journey and back.\n\nAn Example Spanish Coast Itinerary:\n\nFrom Gibraltar, stop off at Marbella to enjoy the old town for the day or evening. Al fresco dining comes highly recommended here under palm trees, whilst admiring several supercars that are always not too far away. You can spend from half a day to one night in Marbella before making your way to Malaga.\n\nMalaga\n\nMany of you may already be working in Malaga, which means a tweak of this itinerary. Here are some places to visit in Malaga that you will not want to miss:\n\n\n\tThe 10th century palace, The Castillo de Gibralfaro\n\tPuerto de Málaga, a port where you can wander with a drink.\n\tAlcazaba, another Moorish palace, but also Málaga’s most iconic      \n\tEl Pedregalejo, a cool neighbourhood with lots of restaurants with a great vibe in the evening.\n\n\nMontes de Málaga Natural Park\n\nNo road trip is complete without a visit to a national park along the way. Visit this national park (5 km from Malaga) to enjoy the splendour of towering mountains that soar 1000m above sea level and amazing lakes. It’s where all the local people of Malaga like to escape to.\n\nThere are many trails you can go on at the park to get some of the best views of the coast.\n\nMaro\n\nLooking for some action and watersports?\n\nThen the coast of Maro is perfect for this. Try kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding. Stop and admire the beautiful cliffs of La Herradura.\n\nVisit La Cueva de la Virgen to catch a swim in the natural blue swimming pool.\n\nSierra Nevada National Park\n\nOn the way to Granada, explore the national park and town of Capileira. Plan a hike to the Los Cahorros gorge where you will find hanging bridges across the Monachil River and also beautiful rock pools and waterfalls.\n\nIn Granada, you will discover lots of ancient arab architecture and arabian dishes. Other attractions include Alhambra, Basilica San Juan de Dios, Mirador San Nicolas and the beautiful courtyards throughout the city.\n\nOnce you have soaked up lots of sun, culture and coastal views, you can begin your journey back to Gibraltar, looking out for anything you missed on the return journey.\n\nIf you’re considering relocating to Gibraltar in the future, or are already secured in a role through SRGEurope, then a road trip is something that may interest you on the weekends or during a holiday break. If family are coming to visit you, what better way to entertain them than this lifetime opportunity of driving along the southern Spanish coastline. Of course this is just one of the options available to you, there are so many places to choose from and opportunities to travel andWrite something here...\n","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-07-18 09:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDcvMTgvMTAvMDQvMzAvNTU2L3NodXR0ZXJzdG9ja180ODM5MzExODZbMV0uanBnIl1d","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/07/how-to-road-trip-around-southern-spain","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDcvMTgvMTAvMDQvMzAvNTU2L3NodXR0ZXJzdG9ja180ODM5MzExODZbMV0uanBnIl1d","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"3215488","name":"Dont take our word for it...Hear what one of our candidates has to say about relocating to Gibraltar!","screen_name":"","title":"Dont take our word for it...Hear what one of our candidates has to say about relocating to Gibraltar!","message":"This month, we find out about one of our candidates who relocated to Gibraltar through SRGEurope. Federico Lahm relocated from Prague and has been in Gibraltar for 3 months now. \n\n \n\nWhat made you want to relocate to Gibraltar to work?\n\nI was living in Prague, Czech Republic, and I decided to move to a place where I could find a change of weather, where I could speak languages I know, and to enjoy the best of two countries.\n\n \n\nDid you bring anyone else along with you?\n\nNot yet, my fiancée is still in Prague and she will be staying a while longer since she has a very good position there. We are still planning how to manage it, but so far a long-distance relationship is not so bad.\n\n \n\nWhat was it like relocating and what did you do to settle in?\n\nThe company I am working for offered a good relocation package which helped me settle in smoothly. I stayed in a hotel for a week and I found a nice flat 10 minutes from La Linea after visiting. As I speak Spanish, I did not have any issues communicating.\n\n \n\nDescribe your typical day...\n\nI leave my flat in Campamento, take a bus to La Linea Bus Station, walk 15 min to Ocean Village where the company is located; have some lunch around the places, sometimes a take away; leave the office and generally walk back home, if there is nice weather, which is around 45 min walk.\n\n \n\nWhat’s the best thing about Gibraltar that really makes you happy?\n\nI believe it is the weather and the nice vibe around the city.\n\n \n\nDescribe your social life and what you do to unwind when you’re not at work?\n\nWell, I usually go out for a pint to some pub that plays good music. Basically, I enojy staying home to catch up with my fiancée, read a lot, enjoy a beer or a coffee in my balcony, and sometimes play some videogames (guilty pleasure :D)\n\n \n\nIs there anything you miss particularly about ‘home’?\n\nI think I see it differently. My physical home was Argentina for 28 years, and Czech Republic for 1 year, but for me, home is where one feels at home, and my home is my family and friends. Of course I cannot have them all in one place, and that’s what I miss the most, being near them, but I keep in touch every day.\n\n \n\nHow do you keep in touch with friends and family back home?\n\nMainly via Whatsapp, with videocalls or texting.\n\n \n\nWould you say there are any similarities between your home and Gibraltar?\n\nNo, it’s really really different, but I like it to be different.\n\n \n\nWhere do you see yourself in 10 years time?\n\nI see myself having my own consulting company and helping others  to achieve their goals. Maybe still in Gibraltar, why not?\n\n \n\nWhat advice would you give to anyone considering a career move to Gibraltar?\n\nI would recommend them to practice their Spanish, since it would be really helpful here. But also to be open to encounter a clash of cultures, to live in Spain to make the most of their earnings and to enjoy the holiday weather that we have here!\n\n \n\nWhat would you say to anyone who has never been to Gibraltar, what are they missing out on?\n\nThey would be missing meeting very interesting people from all over the world, a very unique place that has beautiful surroundings and the opportunity to have the best of Spain and the best of the UK.\n\n \n\nWe would like to thank Federico for his open and honest feedback ad continue to wish him well with his new life in Gibraltar.\n\nWrite something here...\n","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-06-26 11:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDYvMjYvMTEvNDMvMDMvMjIxLzBbMl0uanBnIl1d","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/06/dont-take-our-word-for-it-dot-dot-dot-hear-what-one-of-our-candidates-has-to-say-about-relocating-to-gibraltar","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDYvMjYvMTEvNDMvMDMvMjIxLzBbMl0uanBnIl1d","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"3074977","name":"Three Ways to Gibraltar","screen_name":"","title":"Three Ways to Gibraltar","message":"Flying over the English Channel on a clear day with blue skies and no aeroplane wings in the way, can make you realise how close the UK is to mainland Europe.I’ve made many short-haul trips to and from Europe, but my recent trip where I was sat on row 8 instead of my usual row 18 with aeroplane wings blocking my view, had me glancing from side to side outside my window, startled at how close the two mainlands actually were - 21 miles apart!Also, to think there’s a channel tunnel nestled underneath the ocean between them!Travel to Europe and Gibraltar has never been easier and Gibraltar International Airport makes it so easy to fly non-stop in 3 hours, from the UK, with Easy Jet and British Airways from Manchester, Bristol and London airports. There are also the nearby airports of Jerez, Seville and Malaga in neighboring Spain to choose from.The ease of travelling by air and the pros of travelling direct to Gibraltar’s airport, outweigh all other routes, but if you’re adventurous enough and tired of travelling by air all the time, you’re not limited for alternative ways to get to Gibraltar from the UK. If you watched Race Across The World on BBC Two, where pairs of teams raced against each other from London to Singapore by land only, you would have been left awe-stricken to try something similar for yourself. As long as convenience is not your priority or arriving on time for that business meeting in the World Trade Center! At SRGEurope, we recommend flying as the fastest option, if your first day starting your new job and getting settled beforehand is not far away. Booking your flights in advance will enable you to get the best possible rate. But most notably, relocating to Gibraltar is the most exciting adventure candidates partake. By RoadThe channel tunnel is another way to get across if you’re travelling by car, but if you’re working in Gibraltar, it’s worth noting, there really is no need to have a car, because you can get everywhere by foot! It really is that small.In the UK, we are so dependent on having one car each, with some families parking 4 or 5 cars on their driveway. Walking to school even, if it’s only a 20 minute walk is often the last resort we opt for and that’s usually one when our car has gone in for a repair.In Gibraltar a car is really not a necessity. There Public transport is very reliable and efficient in both Gibraltar and Spain.Going back to the channel tunnel route, if you were to type in the search terms “Folkestone to Gibraltar” and click on directions, it displays an average journey of 21-23 hours. A route worth considering if you plan to stop off at Paris, Bordeaux and several other places in Spain on the way. By SeaApologies! Putting on your speedos and swimming across is not one of the recommended alternative routes, unless your name is on here. Alison Streeter holds the record for swimming across the channel the most times. 43 in total!Ferries can be the slowest and cheapest way to get across the channel. Perhaps not the best suited method if you’re prone to sea sickness or like to get from A to B quickly.Most people assume ferries only take you to the UK, but ferries from Plymouth and Portsmouth can get you to the north of Spain (Santander or Bilbao), allowing you to catch a train the rest of the way to Gibraltar. A ferry also allows you to have much more freedom to walk around and enjoy on board entertainment with Wifi included. Ferry timetables are fairly flexible and run day and night, with some high-speed options.Both the ferry and euro tunnel are a friendly way for your pets to be transported with you too.Write something here...","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-05-09 16:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDUvMDkvMTYvMDYvMTEvNTk1LzQyMjM2MGNkNjVjMzI2MTQ5MGUxMDJmNGFkZTkzM2VjWzFdLmpwZyJdXQ","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/05/three-ways-to-gibraltar","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDUvMDkvMTYvMDYvMTEvNTk1LzQyMjM2MGNkNjVjMzI2MTQ5MGUxMDJmNGFkZTkzM2VjWzFdLmpwZyJdXQ","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"2941016","name":"Gibraltar Night Life","screen_name":"","title":"Gibraltar Night Life","message":"Gibraltar’s night-life is rated highly by many and is well known for being a location where you can wind down for the evening. The atmosphere is truly buzzing after work when people meet up for drinks to soak up the warm year-round climate.We’d like to share with you some of the best nightlife locations Gibraltar has to offer, hoping you’ll be able to find your personal favourite. From Irish menus to Indian and American themed food, the culture is truly vibrant in Gibraltar with so many menus to choose from!At SRGEurope we believe in hard work, followed by the rewards of play, and naturally, Gibraltar really does tick all the boxes.Bruno's Bar RestaurantIf you’re looking for lots of life and action, then Bruno’s is the place to be seen. This bar is guaranteed to be jam-packed with a vibrant atmosphere and lots of excitement, inside and out.Staff are extremely friendly, and the food and cocktails have been rated as excellent and reasonably priced. They even offer a vegan menu at Christmas.You can enjoy Happy Hour from 5pm to 7pm, when all drinks are half price with free Tapas and 2 for 1 cocktails all day and night.Gala Casino \u0026amp; Casino Admiral GibraltarWith over 300 slot machines, four bars, a bingo club and a poker lounge, this is the place to be, if you want to enjoy some casual gambling and sporting events.It’s also a great venue for a cocktail on your night out with friends.Bridge Bar \u0026amp; Grill Bridge Bar is an American-themed grill that resembles a wonderful Western feel. You can order a large selection of American themed food, including Buffalo Shrimp and BBQ sizzler at this quayside bar venue. Food is wonderfully presented and you can visit their website to find out more about their weekly menu offers and upcoming events.The marina provides a pleasant backdrop to the bar’s atmosphere and after-work drinks are extremely popular at this venue.Charlie’s Steak \u0026amp; GrillCharlie’s Steak \u0026amp; Grill is unique, because it’s not just a steakhouse, it’s also an Indian restaurant. A family-friendly venue, that also hosts hen and stag parties, allows you to indulge in steak or alternatively, a spicy Indian Tandoori meal.Afterwards, you can enjoy drinks and a game of pool or darts at Charlie’s Bar. Enjoy the latest sport’s games on the large 4K screen in this relaxing and friendly atmosphere.The variety of food available from Charlie’s steakhouse is what makes it a popular dining experience for an evening meal. Their professional chefs really know how to make you keep coming back for more!O’Reilly’s GibraltarThis is the authentic Irish bar at Ocean’s Village. The design of the pub took three years to plan with two trips to Dublin.Regular live music can be enjoyed on the large terrace as well as on the  Upper Deck.The Three OwlsThe Three Owls pub has been a staple, humble setting for years and may not be the most classiest nightlife venue that appeals to all, but it’s still a favourite for some of the locals.The pub has three floors and a pool table. If you’re looking for somewhere quieter and traditional, then The Three Owls ‘may’ be what you’re looking for!Ocean Village MarinaA stroll around the Marina with a drink in your hand, watching the sunset go down can be a peaceful way to wind down for the day. With several bars to choose from, you can find a top up in no time!Sunborn GibraltarThe 5-star Yacht Casino Resort is a wonderful place to have dinner followed by drinks and even has its own casino. Inside, there is a choice of several restaurants and bars including the famous La Sala restaurant.Casemates SquareThe historic square brings together a number of al fresco eateries such as pubs, bars and restaurants, and is located at the end of Main Street. A popular setting for nightlife and open-air concerts, as well as New Year’s Eve parties.Latino’sLatino’s music bar and restaurant has a wonderful relaxed and informal vibe. The food cooked by international chefs is extensive and enough to whet any appetite in the evening. The location also features a newly refurbished lounge that can be hired out for private parties.The Little RockA friendly atmosphere with great British and Spanish food that can be served inside or al fresco in it’s historic magical venue (within Casemates Square). Find your favourite seat and open the menu! Soak up the local atmosphere and live music.CorksLocated in Irish Town with a hint of sophistication. If your’e looking for a formal modern setting, then Corks won’t let you down. They pride themselves on quality and taste and it shows.DuskOne of the best waterfront nightclub experiences with an ultra VIP lounge and intimate VIP booths. This high energy, super lit club features a large open-air party terrace with cozy day beds and panoramic views across the Ocean Village Marina.","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-03-25 16:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDMvMjUvMTYvMjMvMDcvMjg3L29jZWFuLXZpbGxhZ2Utb2ZmaWNlLWxvY2F0aW9uLWF0LW5pZ2h0WzFdLmpwZyJdXQ","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/03/gibraltar-night-life","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDMvMjUvMTYvMjMvMDcvMjg3L29jZWFuLXZpbGxhZ2Utb2ZmaWNlLWxvY2F0aW9uLWF0LW5pZ2h0WzFdLmpwZyJdXQ","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"2832675","name":"How Do I Pay My Taxes If I Work in Gibraltar? ","screen_name":"","title":"How Do I Pay My Taxes If I Work in Gibraltar? ","message":"How Do I Pay My Taxes If I Work in Gibraltar? \n\nThis is a question that arises a lot!\n\nWhen you’ve found the place of your dreams to live, and will soon be starting work in Gibraltar, you may find it useful to know about how taxes are paid in Gibraltar.\n\nIf you’re going to be living and working in Gibraltar, you’ll find the amount of tax paid to the Gibraltar Government, is considerably lower than the tax paid when living and working in the UK.\n\nThis is what makes ‘working in Gibraltar’ such a favourable place for many to live and work. It’s attracted new employees, new startups and established businesses for many decades to move to Gibraltar because the tax rates are much lower!\n\nThe National Insurance rates in Gibraltar are also a flat-rate, but if you wish to pay into a UK National Insurance, you also have the option to do that.\n\nLet’s take a look at how Tax works in Gibraltar and how it’s worked out.\n\nTax in Gibraltar\n\nEveryone who works in Gibraltar has to pay tax, even if they don’t live there.\n\nIn Gibraltar, the tax year runs from July 1st to June 30th of the following year. Tax returns are submitted for the previous year, by the deadline of November 30th.\n\nIt’s highly advised to get your returns submitted before this date to avoid the late penalty fee of £50, increases further after 3 months and 6 months. Tax returns can be returned to the Gibraltar Tax Office, which is located on Main Street and open Monday to Friday.\n\nGibraltar has two tax systems: the Gross Income Based System (GIBS) based on gross income and the Allowance Based System (ABS), which is a slightly higher rate, than the GIBS, but enables you to receive discount allowances.\n\nNext, let’s take a look at how tax is paid if you live in Spain and commute to Gibraltar for work each day.\n\n \n\nPaying Tax When You Live in Spain, But Work in Gibraltar?\n\nYou’re not the only one that needs answers to this question, so rest assured, because the majority of people who work in Gibraltar, just like you, also commute from Spain.\n\nThe simple answer is that your taxes are balanced out over both governments, so you don’t have to pay double taxes, phew!\n\nThe Spanish government will see you’re already paying taxes to Gibraltar and will just charge you the difference. There are certain factors that reduce the amount of Spanish tax paid. For example, if you are married or have children, or pay into a pension plan, you will pay less tax.\n\nAlso, you only need to pay tax to the Spanish Government, if you:\n\n\n\t\n\tReside in Spain at least 183 days each year.\n\t\n\t\n\tEarn more than €22,000 per year.\n\t\n\n\nA Spanish accountant or assessor (as they are called in Spain) can help you fill in your tax returns and give you more advise on the tax paying process to ensure you don’t pay any more than you should.\n\nIn Spain, the tax year runs from January 1st to December 31st and tax returns for the previous year are submitted by the deadline of 30th of June.\n\nIf you still have any further questions on paying tax whilst working in Gibraltar, get in touch with our team at SRGEurope on +350 200 69999.\n","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-02-18 14:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDIvMTgvMTQvMzkvMTEvMzkxL1RheC02MzR4MC1jLWRlZmF1bHRbMV0uanBnIl1d","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/02/how-do-i-pay-my-taxes-if-i-work-in-gibraltar","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDIvMTgvMTQvMzkvMTEvMzkxL1RheC02MzR4MC1jLWRlZmF1bHRbMV0uanBnIl1d","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"2720780","name":"Gibraltar for Families","screen_name":"","title":"Gibraltar for Families","message":"At just 6.8 square kilometers, Gibraltar is deceptively small. You may be able to walk across one side to the other, but it is jam-packed with activities that appeal to everyone from young to old. The best thing is that you can walk to anywhere, right from the moment you land at the airport. You can stroll your luggage from the runway to your residence without any waiting around for a taxi. That’s rare, we know!There are so many little treasures and things to do in Gibraltar that it’s no surprise why families find this little gem to be so appealing and accessible for everyday activities, especially at weekends and during the holidays. Relocating to Gibraltar as a family has so many plus points attached to it.In this article, we highlight some of the most breathtaking activities you can participate in and places to visit when you’re looking to spend time as a family.Heights and CavesWe couldn’t start without mentioning a famous sight first; The Rock of Gibraltar. This stunning piece of nature has played a significant landmark role in history is adorned with Barbary Macaques on the outside and echoing caves on the inside. These caves had an important role to serve during WWII. For families that love history and adventure, The Rock is a time machine that takes you back in time, with wonderful views for miles on end and you can easily reach a good height in a cable car. If you realise caves have got you and your family excited then, there’s also the Gorham’s Cave Complex. This attraction recently achieved a UNESCO World Heritage Status and is prominently featured as last recorded site of Neanderthal survival. We’re talking some 28,000 years ago!You’re able to book onto a tour that takes you by boat to the cave where Neanderthal engravings have been discovered.Gibraltar’s attractions can be described as being quite steep because of the natural formation of the ground, so wheelchair users and parents with pushchairs should consider there are limited ramps provided, particularly in St Michael’s Cave. Children and adults would certainly enjoy the City Under Siege Exhibition, as well as the Great Siege Tunnels and Parsons Lodge. If you plan on visiting the Apes’ Den, we advise to keep a close eye on small children as macaques do like to run wild.Gibraltar has recently constructed it’s very first 71-metre long suspension bridge which has been built over a 50 metre gorge! The Windsor Bridge is a modern take to the classic traditional landscape surrounding it and is truly breathtaking. The fun doesn’t stop there, you could make an entire day trip exploring what Gibraltar has to offer. The Gibraltar Skywalk is a special attraction that stands 340 metres above sea level; that’s higher than the London Shard! The clear glass panels securing this modern architectural platform offer panoramic views across three countries! Sea and SandIf you’re scared of heights, then you may want to just stick to the local beaches and luckily there are five lively beaches around Gibraltar. If you don’t suffer from sea-sickness, then you might like to venture out further to sea. Dolphin watching tours are available to book from the main marinas. Sailing and diving activities are popular activities that can also be booked from here too.Green SpaceGibraltar Botanic Gardens gives families and young ones the opportunity to enjoy a special atmosphere. The gardens are home to an amphitheatre which hosts events outdoors in the summer, creating a friendly atmosphere where you can mingle with the locals.The gardens are not only home to a children’s playground, but also a recently renovated wildlife conservation park, which is a contrast to the bustling Main Street. From lemurs to peacocks and endangered to adopted animals, there is a large range of sweet little exotic animals to see in such a small space.Sun, Sun, SunOverall, the heat and sun is what makes Gibraltar a wonderful place to be outdoors, even if you have no intentions of going anywhere. At SRGEurope, our candidates who currently work in the range of industries ranging from Online Gaming to Finance, will vouch for the sunny lunch breaks and evening meetings spent reenergising at the restaurants in the marina, where there is a vibrant atmosphere. ","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-01-16 15:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDEvMTYvMTYvMDgvMDIvOTIvc2t5d2Fsay1yb2NrLWdpYnJhbHRhci1hcmMtZGVzaWduc19kZXplZW5fMjM2NF9oZXJvLTg1Mng0NzlbMV0uanBnIl1d","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/01/gibraltar-for-families","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDEvMTYvMTYvMDgvMDIvOTIvc2t5d2Fsay1yb2NrLWdpYnJhbHRhci1hcmMtZGVzaWduc19kZXplZW5fMjM2NF9oZXJvLTg1Mng0NzlbMV0uanBnIl1d","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"2696139","name":"SRGEurope is now Featured in Recruit International","screen_name":"","title":"SRGEurope is now Featured in Recruit International","message":"As featured in Recruit International: Gibraltar’s online gaming recruitment opportunities\n\nAngelique Pearson, CEO of SRGEurope, spoke to Becky Wilson about the benefits of being a local player in Gibraltar’s recruitment market and its booming online gaming sector\n\nPearson originally started her working life as an accountant. After nine years in the field, she realised that maybe accounting was not the long term career for her and met with a recruitment company to discuss her options to make a sideward move. She explained that she was looking for an exciting role where she could make use of her FCMA qualification, and the recruiter suggested joining their company. They felt she’d be well-suited to a career in recruitment as she could work with finance directors who would appreciate her understanding of the terminology and the requirements of working in the role. She joined the company and worked with them for five years; the business grew greatly while she was there, expanding from one office in central Birmingham to 22 offices across the UK. After meeting her husband, they moved to Spain (“We just went for an extended summer break, fell in love with the place and never came back”), where Pearson decided she wanted to continue working in the world of recruitment. She explains, “I couldn’t really find any recruitment companies in Spain or Gibraltar that I wanted to work for, so I decided to set up SRGEurope myself, and that’s where it all started 10 years ago.”\n\nToday, SRGEurope has two main business components. Pearson continues to focus on the financial and accounting sector, placing roles for insurance, banking, and compliance. The business also has a sector focused on online gaming, technology, blockchain and cryptocurrency, which are highly active sectors in Gibraltar and Malta. In addition to a team of three consultants in Gibraltar, the business also has two consultants working in the UK. Discussing the reasons behind her decision to launch a recruitment business in Gibraltar, Pearson shares, “It was close to where I was living and it’s English-speaking with a lot of UK clients. There was a lot of activity around online gaming back in 2007/08 and what I also saw at that point in time was that there were no niche recruiters, who, like myself, were qualified accountants or understood accounting like me. There’s nobody that actually does it or that is a mirror image of what I do in Gibraltar.”\n\n The recruitment market in Gibraltar, Pearson explains, is currently “very buoyant” with growing opportunities in the new blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors. She adds that other sectors, including commercial and banking, are also flourishing, which has only been helped by the launch of the Gibraltar Stock Exchange in 2014. While Malta is experiencing similar levels of activity, in Spain, the market is currently much quieter, apart from Malaga: “Malaga’s focus is tech, on software developers, program managers and companies that white label their products for the online gaming companies on an international basis not just Gibraltar. For us, Spain is a secondary market to Gibraltar and Malta, the economy is still in recovery post crisis.”\n\n Opportunity in local knowledge \n\nThere are currently around 35,000 people living in Gibraltar and the recruitment companies operating in the country are small. Pearson says that SRGEurope is the largest recruitment company in terms of the number of consultants working in the business. There are tremendous opportunities for recruiters in Gibraltar with tech, online gaming, and finance experience. The high number of small recruitment companies operating in Gibraltar, in addition to UK-based companies infiltrating the market, means that it can be competitive and is always a challenge. Despite this, Pearson explains that companies from don’t “know Gibraltar”. Explaining the key to success in the country, she stresses, “It’s knowing local companies and local nuances. It’s really important to be in the fabric of Gibraltar.”\n\nOpportunities in the online gaming sector range from customer service roles all the way through to marketing, IT and operations. There is currently a big emphasis on compliance, particularly with the introduction of GDPR. In Gibraltar, Pearson believes that companies have adapted well to the new legislation, revealing, “It’s definitely been embraced in Gibraltar, but everyone’s aware it’s an ongoing process.” With a focus on online gaming and blockchain, SRGEurope is highly focused on the latest advancements in technology. She highlights, “In Gibraltar, there’s always been a need for people with strong technological skillsets that are current, candidates that are at the forefront of this are highly sought after.” Similarly to the UK, Gibraltar suffers with skills shortages; Pearson explains that there is a lack of good developers in the country currently. To find this talent, SRGEurope utilises social media to reach its network and also shares creative blogs on the latest technologies and the current landscape to drive traffic and potential candidates to its website.\n\nOne topic that Pearson isn’t at all worried about is Brexit. While there has been a slight impact on people looking to relocate, longer term she thinks the referendum result could have a positive impact for Gibraltar and adds, “I can’t think of any solution around Brexit that would mean the border would close because Gibraltar and Spain, they support each other; I don’t think that will change.” Despite there being an impact on people looking to relocate, she says that Gibraltar remains popular with people looking for an outdoor lifestyle with good weather. The kind of expat experience working in the country provides can also help people to further their careers, whether they decide to return to the UK or stay in Gibraltar longer term.\n\nRetaining key staff \n\nReflecting on the company culture at SRGEurope, Pearson reveals that it is meritocratic, with an open structure. She encourages communication and working as a team, highlighting that many of her staff have been working in the recruitment industry for a long time. When asked what she thinks the key is to running a successful business, she says, “I think it’s about giving people autonomy. At SRGEurope, my employees run their own desk, so it’s like running their own business.” She is committed to her staff, and works hard to retain them. One member of staff had to relocate back to the UK and has since set up an operation for SRGEurope in Edinburgh and she has another working in London, who also supports clients in Malaga and Gibraltar; “Flexibility is key, I don’t micromanage anybody, they are true professionals and know what they’ve got to do. They have their objectives and strive to achieve them.”\n\nAs Pearson looks to the future for the company, she stresses that a key focus will be to consolidate while remaining aware of how the blockchain industry develops. With regards to recruitment in Gibraltar, she says that it will remain fairly steady. “I think the blockchain industry will really establish itself within the financial services sector in Gibraltar,” she shares, “We’re in a time of growth in Gibraltar. There’s lots happening here, so it’s great, we love the challenge.” Revealing what she enjoys most about working in the recruitment industry, Pearson shares that she likes working with people in an environment that changes daily. She adds, “It’s great if you make somebody’s dream ultimately come together and it’s a success story, you feel like you’ve really achieved something and helped shape their future. Dreams can come true!” With this focus on her staff and candidates, where will Gibraltar’s recruitment market take Pearson and her team next?\n\n \n","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2019-01-09 14:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDEvMDkvMTUvMTAvMDcvOTg4L0lNR18wMTI1LmpwZyJdXQ","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2019/01/srgeurope-is-now-featured-in-recruit-international","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDEvMDkvMTUvMTAvMDcvOTg4L0lNR18wMTI1LmpwZyJdXQ","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"2603032","name":"Christmas in Gibraltar","screen_name":"","title":"Christmas in Gibraltar","message":"Christmas Day in Gibraltar is a family day where everyone enjoys the festivities with their most loved ones at home. Gibraltar recognises the same Public Holidays as the UK and the main tourist attractions are closed on Christmas Day.Christmas in Gibraltar is a joyous occasion with a number of events planned throughout the festive season in the build up to Christmas Day. You can count down to the big day with SRGEurope’s Advent Calendar.Gibraltar is a truly magical place to be in December because you get to experience the wonderful atmosphere of festive lights while you shop tax-free, all in a warm climate by the coast. It’s a shopper’s paradise when it comes to Christmas shopping for family and friends. You’re able to buy quality international brands for a fraction of the cost in Gibraltar, as perfumes, electronics and watches are considerably cheaper than in the UK and the British pound is also accepted here, so you don’t have to worry about any currency conversions.Gibraltar’s Christmas Light Ceremony \u0026amp; Artisan MarketEvery year in Gibraltar, the Gibraltar Cultural Services organise the Christmas Festival of Lights in John Mackintosh Square. The ceremony is a live show that features live singers, dancers, local choirs and not to forget Santa Claus and his helpful little elves! Children are able to take part in the nostalgic event with a visit to Santa’s Grotto. Everyone is welcome to attend this truly remarkable event.Following the light ceremony, the Gibraltar Artisans Market is declared officially open in the Boulevard next to the British Wall Museum. The market is open from 12pm to 8pm every Wednesday and Thursday, and 10am-10pm every Friday and Saturday. Local artisans sell their festive ware, including mulled wine and mince pies. Santa’s Grotto with Afternoon TeaThat’s not the only place where you can meet Santa in his grotto. The Bayview Bistro in the Caleta Hotel is also hosting an afternoon tea event from the 6th December (2pm) to the 7th December (6pm) which allows children to visit Santa in his Grotto. Pre-booking for the afternoon tea and grotto is required and prices are 14.95 for adults and 12.50 for children. The GHS Christmas Show (6th December, 10am-7pm)This year’s GHS show at John Mackintosh Hall will showcase some of the best homemade Christmas decorations and festive flower arrangements. A wonderful show for anyone who would like to display their masterpiece or just looking for some creative inspiration. The show is not just for talented and experienced entrants, but also offers an opportunity for the more novice and shy artists to exhibit their creations too. You don’t have to be a member to take part either.To find out more information on how to enter, contact ghsmember@outlook.comGibraltar Christmas Stamps \u0026amp; CoinsStamp collectors will be overwhelmed to get their hands on the 2018 Gibraltar Christmas stamps. Designed by Stephen Perera, a local graphics artist, the stamps have been issued by the Government of Gibraltar.In total, there are seven stamps in the collection, all featuring historical paintings from Italian artists of the renaissance era, of the birth of Jesus Christ. They are available to purchase from the Philatelic Shop outside the Main Post Office and also at the Royal Gibraltar Post office counters.That’s not all …The government and treasury of Gibraltar have also issued 50-pence silver Proof collector coins featuring an image of Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas on one side. A beautiful coin that any child would appreciate in their advent calendar. What we adore about these coins, is the Father Christmas featured in the stories by Raymond Briggs is a twist on the traditional St Nicholas we all know. Raymond’s version is a grumpy old man who wears a red suit and works from a normal house with normal domestic duties and no elves to help him. He lives with his cat, dog and two reindeers. The detail on these coins is commendable, with Father Christmas and his sack of presents over his shoulder, a satchel and his flask on the other side. It’s thirty work delivering to all those children!Christmas in SotograndeThere are lots of festivities happening in Sotogrande too. The Christmas street market is a key feature in the marina during December and food is an important theme as always. Sotogrande International School’s Christmas Fair will be hosted at the market with live music on December 15th; an important date for the diary if you want to visit Santa in his grotto.L’Olive at La Reserva Club and other restaurants in the Blue Marina Zone have a number of appetising festive menus. Don Diego goes the extra mile in offering a series of Christmas menus for everyone.Christmas in Sierra NevadaNothing beats a white Christmas around snow and to make your Christmas feel that extra bit special, you could consider a 3 hour drive to Sierra Nevada Ski Resort in Granada.A week of snowy landscapes, tapas feasts and exciting ski trips sounds like the perfect Christmas. Father Christmas is always close by and makes a regular appearance each day. Accommodation is half board or B\u0026amp;B. There are also local restaurants nearby, such as Ruta del Veleta.The city of Granada is 32km away and filled with Christmas markets for anyone looking to do a bit of Christmas shopping. There’s also a traditional Nativity scene on display for all to admire. Three Kings ProcessionThe Spanish Christmas tradition sees gifts exchanged for the three kings in the first week of January. In many towns, you can see a procession of three kings giving out sweets to childeren, whilst they sit on floats.New Years CelebrationThe celebrations start all over again once Christmas Day and Boxing Day are over. If you are looking for somewhere to go for the countdown to midnight and the New Year, then Casemates in Gibraltar host a fabulous annual fireworks display, which is guaranteed to attract many visitors.All over Spain, the New Year is celebrated with fireworks and lots of activities across the southern coast of Spain. The Spanish tradition is to a eat a grape for every chime of the bell at midnight!For job opportunities in a variety of sectors in Gibraltar during Christmas, email our recruitment consultants on support@srgeurope.com ","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2018-12-07 08:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTgvMTIvMDcvMDkvMTgvNTUvMTU0L0J4UkdoM2FJQUFBcGRFNVsxXS5qcGciXV0","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2018/12/christmas-in-gibraltar","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTgvMTIvMDcvMDkvMTgvNTUvMTU0L0J4UkdoM2FJQUFBcGRFNVsxXS5qcGciXV0","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"2552264","name":"The Family Guide To Relocating to Gibraltar","screen_name":"","title":"The Family Guide To Relocating to Gibraltar","message":"The excitement of relocating to Gibraltar is a prospect that brings many new opportunities for the entire family. With advancements in modern technology, relocating abroad has never been easier, with the internet and social media making the world seem a lot smaller than it is.\n\nFaceTime and Whatsapp have enabled us to keep in touch with family overseas; with the touch of a button we can stay connected to friends, parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles.\n\nFor The Working Spouse\n\nThere is certainly no shortage of work here with an abundance of sectors in every direction and opportunities for success in every corner. Gibraltar is well known for it.\n\nSRGEurope recruit for a wide range of sectors, placing individuals and their partners into roles, like they have been doing for decades.\n\nWe specialise in relocating candidates to Gibraltar and have substantial experience in doing so, which is why we’re able to support our valued candidates aiding them in their transition from home to home, making it as flawless as possible.\n\nYou couldn’t be more well placed than with one of our SRGEurope’s Recruitment Consultants to place you in your dream role.\n\nAnd we don’t just find you a role. We’re much more than that!\n\nWe give all our candidates, whether they are expat wives or husbands, advice on all of the following:\n\n\n\t\n\tHow to get to Gibraltar\n\t\n\t\n\tOptions for accommodation\n\t\n\t\n\tThe cost of living\n\t\n\t\n\tSchools\n\t\n\t\n\tTax\n\t\n\n\nAt SRGEurope, we place partners into roles too! After all, they are skilled, qualified professionals too and exactly what our clients are looking for.\n\nFor the Kids\n\nGibraltar is a remarkable place for children to grow up. The close knit, multicultural community of Gibraltar means that locals always stop to chat to each other, bringing out the social spark in everyone, including the young. Children grow up to be bilingual, which has its own added benefits in terms of future prospects.\n\nThe warm climate means that children get to spend lots of time outdoors, as opposed to spending so much time indoors on their iPads and consoles.\n\nThe education in Gibraltar is outstanding and whether you choose to live in Gibraltar or across the border in Spain, there are numerous nurseries and schools to choose from. We’ve outlined the most popular ones here:\n\nNurseries in Gibraltar\n\nFull-time nursery fees in Gibraltar can vary from approximately £300 to £600 each month. Many of the nurseries also offer a pick and drop service for busy parents.\n\nHappy Feet Nursery are based in the World Trade Center and extremely convenient for parents who work in the building.\n\nQueensway Quay Nursery and Preschool are highly commended for their outdoor space. A popular choice with many parents, which means they have a waiting list.\n\nNurseries in Spain\n\nNursery fees in Spain can range from €300 upwards.\n\nKiddi Bank Daycare is located in San Roque Club, a mere 15 minutes away from Gibraltar. The facility also organise regular sleepovers for children, which enables parents to have some time to themselves.\n\nNurseries in Sotogrande\n\nFundamentals which is part of the internationally renowned, Sotogrande International School, is located directly on the polo fields in Sotogrande, offering a highly stimulating environment for children.\n\nFun In English is situated in a Spanish village, just 15 minutes away from Gibraltar next to Sotogrande.\n\nSchools in Gibraltar\n\nThe public school system in Gibraltar is very good and based on UK education. However, you must live and work in Gibraltar to be able to get your children into these public schools. A new public secondary school is currently being built for boys and girls in Gibraltar\n\nPrivate Schools in Gibraltar\n\nLoreto take children from nursery age up to 12 years. They are a well established school in Gibraltar with an excellent reputation.\n\nPrior Park Gibraltar is Gibraltar’s first independent, co-educational, Catholic/Christian day school for children aged 12-18.\n\nPublic Schools in Spain\n\nPublic schools in Spain are also a popular choice for parents who want their children to benefit from a Spanish society. Children from all nationalities are taught in Spanish public schools.\n\nPrivate Schools in Spain\n\nCameron International Primary School  is linked to Kiddy Bank Nursery. Based in San Roque Club, 15 minutes away from Gibraltar and again, they organise regular sleepovers for the children too.\n\nSotogrande International School is an outstanding school and currently celebrating 40 years. Located in Sotogrande with boarding options also available.\n\nColegio San Jose is located in Estepona, a little further up the coast but still within easy reach from Gibraltar\n\nBilingual Colegio Atalaya based in Estepona, is a newly built school with outstanding facilities.\n\nSwans School International is based in Marbella and has been established for over 45 years.\n\nAloha College is located in a lush setting in Marbella and was founded in 1982.\n\nFamily Time\n\nFor the mums who still have toddlers at home, there are endless resources on Google on activities to do and places to go in Gibraltar.\n\nYou will be surprised at just how close Gibraltar is to Spain and how you can walk from one side of the border to the other. Many people park their car at the parking lot in Spain and walk across. Moreover, being on this side of the channel makes it easier for you to hire a car or get on a train to Portugal or a ferry to Morocco.\n\nDid you know a 3 hour drive can take you to Sierra Nevada Ski Resort? The transition from sun to snow in 3 hours really does heighten the senses!\n","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2018-11-22 12:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTgvMTEvMjIvMTIvMjgvMDQvODM4L25ld3NhcnRpY2xlLTI3MzY0MS1zY2FsZWQtNTgweDBbMV0uanBnIl1d","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2018/11/the-family-guide-to-relocating-to-gibraltar","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTgvMTEvMjIvMTIvMjgvMDQvODM4L25ld3NhcnRpY2xlLTI3MzY0MS1zY2FsZWQtNTgweDBbMV0uanBnIl1d","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"2426150","name":"20 Years in Gibraltar; Martin's Expat Story","screen_name":"","title":"20 Years in Gibraltar; Martin's Expat Story","message":"One of the most important roles on the planet, the Software Developer or Software Architect, the brains behind applications we all use everyday and I’m sure you will agree, the world depends on them.\n\nSo, I couldn’t help myself but look up “collective nouns for software developers” and here’s what it brought up:\n\n\n\ta recursion of software developers\n\ta bikeshed of software developers\n\n\nOk we can’t assume all software developers or architects get stuck in a bike-shed moment of procrastination, but yes they will most certainly have used recursion, ‘the method of solving a problem, where the solution depends on a solution.’ A general term used in the computer science world.\n\nI recently got in touch with Martin, a Software Architect in Gibraltar. I wanted to discover more about what brought him to Gibraltar and how his adventure had unfolded over the last 20 years he’d been here. (We hope this quashes the myth that relocating to Gibraltar is a new trend. It’s been happening for decades!)\n\nOn opposite sides of the channel, time zones totally slipped my mind! I’d told Martin we’ll talk at 12.30pm, so  couldn’t understand why he was messaging me at 11.45am asking me, “Are we not meeting?”\n\nI’ve always been reliably on time for all my meetings and events, so I know I can’t be the only one who has ever made this time zone blunder! Any candidates who are reading this and scheduled for an interview, make sure you set your alarm in Gibraltar time!\n\nMartin certainly is a true Gibraltarian, he’s mastered the whole relocating to Gibraltar thing to the point where he’s claimed official residency in Gibraltar. \n\nI ask him what do you have to do to become a permanent national of Gibraltar? He tells me, “You have to have a property to either rent or buy. I bought my flat in 2016, the same year I became resident.”\n\nWhen I ask what are the benefits of being a national in Gibraltar? He goes on to tell me, “There are immense tax benefits in Gibraltar. I'm exempt from paying taxes such as inheritance tax and capital tax. The society gets to regulate itself very well here and there is no crime. Everyone knows each other.”\n\nThe Gibraltar Way of Life\n\nWhen I ask him what brought him to Gibraltar, he told me that when he first arrived in 1999, he instantly fell in love with the place. The locals were very friendly and he felt at home straight away. So he decided he would settle here with his family, which included his 3 year old daughter at the time - now 21 and finishing off at university to become a vet, whilst his other daughter will qualify as an engineer. Both, proud Gibraltarians, will return to their homeland after their studies. Martin shares an interesting fact, “There are lots of animals in Gibraltar, so a huge demand for vets here.”\n\nPerhaps there’s something about living in Gibraltar that appeals to many people. Maybe it takes them back in time to a nostalgic era that reminds them of their childhoods spent in picturesque village settings in England.\n\nMartin on the other hand, did grow up in a rural idyllic village in Berkshire and even went to boarding school there. So, Gibraltar really did remind him of the life he had whilst growing up.\n\nSwitching Career Paths\n\nMartin cleverly made the switch to a computing career from being a qualified engineer, when he was working on a project back in 1983. He was required to make lots of calculations, for which he was able to find alternative ways to get to his solution. This is when he realised he had an aptitude for computing. The biggest drive for his career change was how well paid the IT industry was in those days.\n\n“There was certainly less competition then, than there is now,” he tells me. “When I started in IT, it was very open book and as time has gone on, everything is now more specialised. You really have to keep up otherwise you can lose your employability.”\n\nMartin has achieved many ventures out here since then. He opened a bar in Sotogrande in 2009 which he later sold to a partner. When his daughters wanted to go to school in the UK, he moved back seamlessly and returned again to Gibraltar in 2011, before being offered a job in Malaga as a Performance Architect.\n\nNow he is working for a large online gaming brand and his desk is a mere 7-min stroll from his sunny flat. “I love coming to work each day. My team is brilliant, they have the best sense of humour,” he states. I ask him what is his favourite skill is that he loves to utilise in his role.\n\n“I can make things go faster. The trading environment is very important and I am able to optimise databases, optimise code, optimise infrastructure.” Sounds like a genius with a very fast brain!\n\nI’m always intrigued to know what hobbies working people in Gibraltar have. Martin doesn’t fail to amaze me when he says he’s a member of an indoor pistol club, scuba-dives and collects classic cars. “55 Mustang, Mini Cooper, Triumph TR6…”\n\nMartin has really embraced the Gibraltar life and his journey is one that should inspire anyone considering a career change or relocation to Gibraltar. His career and hobbies have flourished endlessly within a tax-friendly climate that has suited him.\n\n \n","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2018-10-15 14:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTgvMTAvMTUvMTQvNTgvMDkvMzY4L2dpYnJhbHRhci1uYXR1cmUtcmVzZXJ2ZS11cHBlci1yb2NrLXZpZXctc3VucmlzZS03NjB4NTA1LmpwZyJdXQ","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2018/10/20-years-in-gibraltar-martins-expat-story","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTgvMTAvMTUvMTQvNTgvMDkvMzY4L2dpYnJhbHRhci1uYXR1cmUtcmVzZXJ2ZS11cHBlci1yb2NrLXZpZXctc3VucmlzZS03NjB4NTA1LmpwZyJdXQ","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"2407760","name":"20 Years in Gibraltar; Martins Expat Story","screen_name":"","title":"20 Years in Gibraltar; Martins Expat Story","message":"One of the most important roles on the planet, the Software Developer or Software Architect, the brains behind applications we all use everyday and I’m sure you will agree, the world depends on them.\n\nSo, I couldn’t help myself but look up “collective nouns for software developers” and here’s what it brought up:\n\n\n\trecursion of software developers\n\tbikeshed of software developers\n\n\nOk we can’t assume all software developers or architects get stuck in a bike-shed moment of procrastination, but yes they will most certainly have used recursion, ‘the method of solving a problem, where the solution depends on a solution.’ A general term used in the computer science world.\n\nI recently got in touch with Martin, a Software Architect in Gibraltar. I wanted to discover more about what brought him to Gibraltar and how his adventure had unfolded over the last 20 years he’d been here. (We hope this quashes the myth that relocating to Gibraltar is a new trend. It’s been happening for decades!)\n\nOn opposite sides of the channel, time zones totally slipped my mind! I’d told Martin we’ll talk at 12.30pm, so  couldn’t understand why he was messaging me at 11.45am asking me, “Are we not meeting?”\n\nI’ve always been reliably on time for all my meetings and events, so I know I can’t be the only one who has ever made this time zone blunder! Any candidates who are reading this, who are scheduled for an interview, make sure you set your alarm in Gibraltar time!\n\nMartin certainly is a true Gibraltarian, he’s mastered the whole relocating to Gibraltar thing to the point where he’s claimed official residency in Gibraltar. (Why did I have this perception that relocating to Gibraltar was a fairly new trend? It’s been happening for decades!)\n\nI ask him what do you have to do to become a permanent national of Gibraltar? He tells me, “You have to have a property to either rent or buy. I bought my flat in 2016, the same year I became resident.”\n\nWhen I ask what are the benefits of being a national in Gibraltar? He goes on to tell me, “There are immense tax benefits in Gibraltar. I'm exempt from paying taxes such as inheritance tax and capital tax. The society gets to regulate itself very well here and there is no crime. Everyone knows each other.”\n\nThe Gibraltar Way of Life\n\nWhen I asked him what brought him to Gibraltar, he told me that when he first arrived in 1999, he instantly fell in love with the place. The locals were very friendly and he felt at home straight away. So he decided he would settle here with his family, which included his 3 year old daughter at the time - now 21 and finishing off at university to become a vet, whilst his other daughter will qualify as an engineer. Both, proud Gibraltarians, will return to their homeland after their studies. Martin shares an interesting fact, “There are lots of animals in Gibraltar, so a huge demand for vets here.”\n\nPerhaps there’s something about living in Gibraltar that appeals to many people. Maybe it takes them back in time to a nostalgic era that reminds them of their childhoods spent in picturesque village settings in England.\n\nMartin on the other hand, grew up in a rural idyllic village in Berkshire and even went to boarding school there. So, Gibraltar really did remind him of the life he had whilst growing up.\n\nSwitching Career Paths\n\nMartin cleverly made the switch to a computing career from being a qualified engineer, when he was working on a project back in 1983. He was required to make lots of calculations, for which he was able to find alternative ways to get to his solution. This is when he realised he had an aptitude for computing. The biggest drive for his career change was how well paid the IT industry was in those days.\n\n“There was certainly less competition then, than there is now,” he tells me. “When I started in IT, it was very open book and as time has gone on, everything is now more specialised. You really have to keep up otherwise you can lose your employability.”\n\nMartin has achieved many ventures out here since then. He opened a bar in Sotogrande in 2009 which he later sold to a partner. When his daughters wanted to go to school in the UK, he moved back seamlessly and returned again to Gibraltar in 2011, before being offered a job in Malaga as a Performance Architect.\n\nNow he is working for a large online gaming brand and his desk is a mere 7-min stroll from his sunny flat. “I love coming to work each day. My team is brilliant, they have the best sense of humour,” he states. I ask him what is his favourite skill is that he loves to utilise in his role.\n\n“I can make things go faster. The trading environment is very important and I am able to optimise databases, optimise code, optimise infrastructure.” Sounds like a genius with a very fast brain!\n\nI’m always intrigued to know what hobbies working people in Gibraltar have. Martin doesn’t fail to amaze me when he says he’s a member of an indoor pistol club, scuba-dives and collects classic cars. “55 Mustang, Mini Cooper, Triumph TR6…”\n\nMartin has really embraced the Gibraltar life and his journey is one that should inspire anyone considering a career change or relocation to Gibraltar. His career and hobbies have flourished endlessly within a tax-friendly climate that has suited him.\n\n \n","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2018-10-15 14:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTgvMTAvMTUvMTQvNTgvMDkvMzY4L2dpYnJhbHRhci1uYXR1cmUtcmVzZXJ2ZS11cHBlci1yb2NrLXZpZXctc3VucmlzZS03NjB4NTA1LmpwZyJdXQ","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2018/10/20-years-in-gibraltar-martins-expat-story","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTgvMTAvMTUvMTQvNTgvMDkvMzY4L2dpYnJhbHRhci1uYXR1cmUtcmVzZXJ2ZS11cHBlci1yb2NrLXZpZXctc3VucmlzZS03NjB4NTA1LmpwZyJdXQ","tweet_id":"","video":""},{"id":"2255235","name":"Denise Matthews Entrepreneurial Journey That Brought Startup Grind to Gibraltar","screen_name":"","title":"Denise Matthews Entrepreneurial Journey That Brought Startup Grind to Gibraltar","message":"Denise Matthews Entrepreneurial Journey That Brought Startup Grind to Gibraltar\n\nIt’s 09:30 UK time and 10:30 in Gibraltar, with differences in the weather too. It may be cloudy here in London, but Gibraltar is reliably sunny with enviable warmer temperatures.\n\nThe kids are back to school and everyone is getting back into the swing of work, meetings and new ventures, so what better opportunity for myself to meet with Denise Matthews, winner of the Startup Grind, winner of the 2018 “Rookie of the Year” award.\n\nAbout Denise\n\n“So Denise, you are a prominent figure in Startup Grind Gibraltar. Tell me a little bit about yourself.”\n\nSince the age of 20, I had always known that I wanted to work for myself, which prompted me to open up my own business in PR and Promotions. I worked for myself for 4 - 5 years locally, before moving to Spain to expand.\n\nAs well as working for big companies in Spain, I continued to work for myself. I eventually came back to Gibraltar after giving birth to my son, (who is now 9) mainly because there was so much more support from family here.\n\nWhen I returned to Gibraltar, I met the founder of Fitness First, Mike Balfour, who was semi-retired and the owner of several spas. Mike asked me to work for him, which I did for 11 months until I decided I wanted to do my own thing again. So I told Mike I was going to apply for Startup Grind.\n\nHe laughed and said, “You do know you have to find celebrity speakers for all your events?” Funnily, it turned out Mike and his son James, were my first speakers for the first Startup Grind Gibraltar when it launched in March 2017. We had over one hundred people attend.\n\n“What made you apply for Startup Grind?”\n\nI decided to apply for Startup Grind in February 2017, because I wanted to utilise my existing skills in event management and PR. So, I pulled out this old laptop that had been sitting in a box for 5 years old. It belonged to my father and I decided to make use of it.\n\nI started to research what was out there. I had no investment, so was looking for a platform to showcase the services of my company ‘One Media \u0026amp; Events.’ I knew I could use my company to power Startup Grind, because I am a startup founder and entrepreneur.\n\n“Wow! Only one month between applying for Startup Grind and your first event launching? That was a quick turnaround!”\n\nAbout Startup Grind\n\n“Tell me more about Startup Grind.”\n\nStartup Grind’s headquarters are based in Silicon Valley in San Francisco. It’s powered by Google for Entrepreneurs, which is a project Google run targeted at Startups. Its aim is to attract super talent and nourish it globally, snapping up the best talent and the best startups out there.\n\nThe technology that sits behind Startup Grind is called Bevy and was built by a man called Derek Anderson. A now successful company in its own right recently raising a round of funding in the millions.\n\nStartup Grind enables work remotely so it is now present in 400 cities around the world with their chapter directors as a freelance representative of the initiative. I am super passionate about entrepreneurship and believe in resilience to get what you want. I get to travel a lot through work, especially with all the networking events I attend.\n\n“Tell me about your experience of visiting Silicon Valley”\n\nEvery year, there is a global conference held in Silicon Valley. The USA didn’t live up to my expectations. I got an insight into how harsh life can be out there in the states.\n\nHowever, I do plan to spend more time exploring Silicon Valley next year in February, at the next global conference.\n\n“Describe a typical Startup Grind event”\n\nEach event starts with a talk by an inspiring speaker, who aims to educate and inspire. This is followed by networking, where big companies and smaller startups, and even people with great ideas can talk to one another, sharing stories and ideas.\n\n“How do you think Startup Grind Gibraltar differs from all the other Startup Grinds globally?”\n\nStartup Grind in Gibraltar has created magical experiences. We were lucky to have a regulated space here for Distributor Ledger Technology (DLT), which was initiated in 2017. It is attracting tech startups form around the world which is very much aligned with Startup Grind.\n\nThere are lots of companies and startups moving to Gibraltar, the majority of them all know about Startup Grind so there is sense of a community being built.\n\nWhat else is great about Startup Grind here in Gibraltar? There is no shortage of speakers on a global level.  We have some really interesting topics and discussions going on at all the events. I think we are even more forward thinking than the USA in the Blockchain and ICO space.\n\n“So far, what has been the most memorable Startup Grind Gibraltar event that has taken place?”\n\nThere is something special about each one that always gets to my heart. For me, the work I do has to bring great value. Otherwise you wouldn’t be able to bring together so many people within such a small community. It’s about searching for the right speakers every month on platforms like  LinkedIn that will bring value to startup listeners.\n\nBeing a woman, the Female Leaders Month event in May made me feel extremely satisfied. I had a panel of 4 women speakers and it made a real impact here in Gibraltar. It made people think and if there was any impact for the better it makes me really happy.\n\nStartups in Gibraltar\n\n“How do you attract startups to attend your events?”\n\nMy main method of advertising is through social media. I also have 480 members currently registered to receive newsletters on upcoming events and updates.\n\nWould you agree that if there’s an individual out there, who has an idea and wants to form a business, that Startup Grind would give them the confidence to get started?\n\nThere are lots of factors when you look at startups. The biggest challenge for them is receiving the right type of capital investment. A lot of them have the ideas, but lack capital.\n\nStartup Grind provides a central environment for startups to come together and see how they can help each other encouraging startups to “Build what you want, in whatever way you want.”\n\nAs a startup, you also need an advisor and talent working for you. The startup industry is beginning to flourish here in Gibraltar. After all, Gibraltar is a very privileged place to work for many.\n\n“What is the biggest challenge for start-ups in Gibraltar?”\n\nIn other countries, startups have a lot more support when it comes to investment. To accelerate a faster moving ‘startup environment’ in Gibraltar, we need more investors who are prepared to invest in high risk projects.\n\nWe need more moving capital to drive economic development here. The current investment is all going into investment funds so that people can get better interest on their return. Gibraltar has always been well known for a beneficial tax regime, but now we need investors to consider startups.\n\n“How do you feel startups in Gibraltar can benefit from the services provided by an agency like SRGEurope?”\n\nWhen a business or startup arrives in Gibraltar, they have to apply for a license. In some cases, there are certain requirements to adhere to, in order to set up office, including having for example a Compliance Officer and Director of Finance. That’s a lot of compliance officers for a lot of start-ups, so we don’t want to end up with a shortage in those specific roles.\n\nStartups can rely on recruitment agencies like SRGEurope to ensure those specific resources are available when they need to recruit for them.\n\n“What kind of start-ups are arriving in Gibraltar?”\n\nThere are lots of new startups that are entering, online trading market, cryptocurrency, DLT, token blockchain and also the energy blockchain companies.\n\nOnline gaming companies have arrived from America and Israel in recent years and are one of the most established startup industries locally.\n","url":"","link":"","created_at":"2018-09-07 14:00:00 +0000","entry_type":"search_rss","large_image":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTgvMDkvMDcvMTQvMjEvMTAvNDk1L1BqT0hnakE2LmpwZyJdXQ","external_url":"https://www.srgeurope.com/blog/2018/09/denise-matthews-entrepreneurial-journey-that-brought-startup-grind-to-gibraltar","internal_url":"","results_count":"20","picture":"https://d3jh33bzyw1wep.cloudfront.net/s3/W1siZiIsIjIwMTgvMDkvMDcvMTQvMjEvMTAvNDk1L1BqT0hnakE2LmpwZyJdXQ","tweet_id":"","video":""}])