Make room for a lux lifestyle in vibrant Leith with PLATFORM_ rentals
John Thomson, General Manager of the purpose-built and recently completed PLATFORM_ development in the Leith area of Edinburgh, believes this landmark site, which is unrivalled in the BTR sector in Scotland, is a true game-changer.
This brand-new residential building provides 464 new homes in a mix of studio, one, two and three-bedroomed apartments across three residential blocks, including 116 Intermediate Market Rent apartments.
The setting on the Water of Leith (formerly a John Lewis depot) is a triumph and gives residents a choice of great outdoor spaces and homes within a short walking distance of this cool neighbourhood's many historic and cultural attractions, including The Shore, shops, nurseries, schools, parks, fine dining restaurants (some Michelin rated), bars, and easy transport links.
What also sets this long-term orientated development apart from the rest is the concept behind it: PLATFORM_'s model is centred on simplifying and enriching people's lives by supplying high-quality homes that focus on residents' wellbeing and can change as life moves on.
A refreshingly new take on renting, it offers security and longevity for as long as you want (ensuring continuity for children's education), but also freedom, as residents benefit from smart technology with keyless access, superfast fibre broadband, and on-site customer service and maintenance teams.
(Image: Edmund Dabney)
More remarkable is the range of amenities included in the rent at no extra cost- a fully equipped gym and spin studio, tranquil yoga room, children's soft play area, bookable screening room, a sun lounge, a private dining room, co-working spaces, secure automated 24-hour parcel room (never miss a parcel again), vast outdoor communal area for socialising (enhanced by proximity to The Biscuit Factory), three communal roof terraces with views to the castle and Arthur's Seat, three guest suites perfect for when your friends or family visit, and EV charging stations.
With all these timesaving and lifestyle-enhancing amenities on-site, welcome to renting reimagined.
The apartments are equally impressive. Focused on sustainability and characterised by cool, pared-back Scandi-style, all-electric apartments (some with balconies) feature open plan living with full-height windows, wood floors, neutral décor, high-spec bathrooms and kitchens, the latter with appliances and granite work surfaces, and a vast choice of sizes and floorplans, available furnished or unfurnished and are also pet friendly.
THE PRICE IS RIGHT
OFFERING studios from £1,570 pcm, to three-beds from £2,345 pcm — these prices include far more than just a beautifully designed home. With exclusive access to high-quality amenities like co-working spaces, gym/yoga/spinning studios, private dining areas, and more all wrapped into the rent, residents enjoy a lifestyle that would cost more if paid for separately.
'Seeing is the key,' says Thomson. 'These homes are so far removed from the average person's perception of rented accommodation that a visit is the only way to fully appreciate the living experience they offer.'
Build-to-rent is still in its infancy and only accounts for around two per cent of the UK's total private rental accommodation, leaving enormous room for growth as it aspires to be part of the solution to the UK's ongoing housing crisis.
Initially synonymous with city apartments aimed at students and young business professionals, the BTR model is constantly evolving and innovating to encompass a broad range of housing solutions, including mid-market schemes and homes aimed at families and older renters.
The sector is predicted to double in size within the next five years and expand into new areas to deliver high-quality homes where demand is most acute.
(Image: Edmund Dabney)
'Our demographic in Leith spans a broad spectrum, from business professionals to families with children and retirees who choose to live in a lively, all-ages community as opposed to an age-specific one,' says Thomson.
'Leith is such a vibrant neighbourhood with so many excellent amenities, schools, and other attractions – it's an ideal lifestyle location for all ages and PLATFORM_'s homes offer a unique housing option in a city where the provision of quality rentals is limited.
'PLATFORM_ in Edinburgh's focus is the resident experience, and our on-site teams continually monitor feedback and comments and encourage residents to integrate, socialise, and utilise the outdoor space we have here for events and activities. The gym is a huge attraction,' he adds, 'but we also have 'fitness on demand', classes, and a tie-in with a personal trainer – all at no cost to residents.'
Looking to the future, Thomson is keen to install beehives on the roof. 'This could be a great opportunity to involve schools and the local community,' he says.
Given everything else that PLATFORM_ has here, home-grown honey could be the ultimate sweetener.
Interested to find out more? Call 0131 322 6495 or visit www.platform.life/edinburgh to book your viewing
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Wales Online
15 minutes ago
- Wales Online
The best fish and chip shops in Wales according to the people who know best
The best fish and chip shops in Wales according to the people who know best National Fish and Chip Day is the perfect time to indulge in the treat Page's Fish & Chips in Cwmbran is one of the establishments on the list (Image: Page's Fish & Chips/Facebook ) Today marks an important day in the calendar - National Fish and Chip Day. There's little that can compare to venturing to your local favourite for a delectable serving of cod and chips and today is the perfect day for it. A fish and chip supper is a treat we simply can't resist, and it's one of the nation's favourite takeaway options - particularly during the summer months when beach outings and evenings lounging by the seafront are commonplace. The succulent flakes of cod encased in golden batter, served with piping hot chips and lashings of vinegar... just thinking about them makes us hungry. Whether you're partial to a cod bite, a sausage-in-batter, or curry sauce, there are plenty of fish and chip shops in Wales serving up the most tantalising portions. From the shores of north Wales to the market towns of the south, you'll find a chippy whose offerings are as breathtaking as the views that surround it. Here, in no particular order, are the Welsh chippies that should be on your list, whether you're local or just passing through.... 1. Caersws Fish Bar When one of Wales' - and indeed the UK's - top chefs (none other than Ynyshir's Gareth Ward) recommends a fish and chip shop as one of his three top places to eat ever, you don't question it. You can read all about Caersws' story here, reports Wales Online. Owner Tim Harrison prides himself on experimenting with new, exciting dishes for his chippy, including sourdough batter, Parsi-style masala battered fish, Koji Fried Chicken - his take on KFC but with fermented ingredients - and much more. This truly is a fish bar with a 'really cool' difference. Article continues below Where: 2 Cwrt Swswen, Station Road, Caersws SY17 5EQ Caersws Fish Bar (Image: Tim Harrison ) 2. Victoria Fish Bar On a chilly, dark autumn evening, the bright lights of Victoria Fish Bar invite in hungry patrons, offering comforting fish and chips with crispy batter embracing thick cuts of cod. Where: 41 Old Church Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 1AB The team at the Victoria Fish Bar in Whitchurch (Image: Victoria Fish Bar ) 3. The Mermaid This Barmouth-based chippy was the only other Welsh establishment recognised by The Times in 2023 as one of the UK's best. It was described as: "What beverage pairs best with fish and chips? Champagne? An unoaked chardonnay? A pint of bitter? All are good, but none beats a mug of tea. "In most chippies that's a teabag on a string in a polystyrene cup, but at the Mermaid (established 1964) it comes out of a metal pot, strong and slightly overstewed - the perfect accompaniment to a crunchy fillet of battered cod and crisp yet fluffy chips." Sounds lush. Where: Jubilee Road, Barmouth LL42 1LT 4. O My Cod Not only is O My Cod a scrumptious fish bar in Bridgend, but it's also an award-winning one. The chippy has been recognised not just for its top-notch food but also for its charitable endeavours. The chippy regularly provides hearty meals to local homeless individuals and fundraises for local charities - Hope Rescue for abandoned dogs and the Tŷ Hafan children's hospice. Not to forget, it has bagged the Blue Ribbon in Good Food award for Fish and Chips - its ingredients are locally sourced, fresh and it boasts an extensive gluten-free and vegetarian menu. Where: 66 Nolton St, Bridgend CF31 3BP 5. Hikary's Fish Bar This chip shop is a firm favourite amongst the residents of Neath and Port Talbot. With numerous prestigious awards to its name, its fresh and high-quality menu is cooked and fried using groundnut oil, making it a deliciously healthy takeaway option. Alongside staple options like fishcakes, scampi, jumbo sausages and traditional cod, they offer burgers, halloumi fries and even jacket potatoes. Plus, they were recently named as one of six Welsh fish and chip shops listed in the UK's Top 50. Where: 74 Briton Ferry Road, Neath Hikary's Fish Bar (Image: South Wales Evening Post ) 6. Môr Ffein This stunning shop offers traditional fish and chips daily, but it also serves special menus for when you fancy treating yourself or your loved ones. And it's not just fish you'll find. You can indulge in pulled pork, vegan chilli, and even a cheesecake or two – we're salivating at the thought. Where: 2 High Street, St Dogmaels, SA43 3ED Môr Ffein (Image: Môr Ffein Llandudoch / Instagram ) 7. The Creel This snug, family-run chippy exudes warmth and friendliness. With its proximity to the port ensuring the freshest of fare, it's no wonder TripAdvisor is awash with glowing reviews. One visitor wrote: "Amazing fish and chips. Just freshly made. Good price. Friendly staff and helpful. Nice wee sitting area outside. Well worth a visit." Where: 84 High St, Porthmadog LL49 9NW 8. Dorothy's Fish Bar A night out in Cardiff isn't complete without a jaunt down Caroline Street, affectionately dubbed Chippy Lane, culminating in a feast at Dorothy's. Whether it's classic fish and chips, Welsh favourite chips and curry sauce, or another takeaway delight, missing out on Dorothy's means missing out on a true Cardiff experience. Since it opened in 1953, this enduring family-run chippy has become an institution for satisfying those fish and chip cravings, whether it's lunchtime or the early hours. Where: 39-40 Caroline St, Cardiff CF10 1FF 9. Cardiff Arms Fish Bar The new proprietors of this Rhondda chip shop have inherited years of fish supper history from the Italian family who previously ran it for decades. They've also taken over the iconic cafe next door, giving both a modern makeover whilst maintaining the familiar feel of their predecessors. Alongside classic fish suppers (quality fish, light batter, generous portions), they've updated the menu to include burgers, loaded fries, an expanded range of seafood delights and a rotating selection of homemade fishcakes and rissoles. Where: 147-148 Bute St, Treorchy CF42 6BN 10. Beales Beales offers beautifully crunchy batter that's not at all greasy, succulent flakes of fish, and chips that are fluffy on the inside and golden on the outside. Everything is served in a cardboard box and is always fresh and tasty. Expect queues at any time of day. Where: 2-3 Eastern Promenade, Porthcawl CF36 5TS 11. Off the Hook Bistro Boasting a stunning location overlooking Broad Haven beach, Off the Hook serves up fantastic fish and chips with equally impressive views - and the portions are huge. The batter is light without being greasy and the chips are simply divine. Most of their menu can also be made gluten-free - just let them know your preference. Where: 2 Marine Rd, Broad Haven, Haverfordwest SA62 3JR 12. Penaluna's Famous Fish and Chips This family-owned chippy has received numerous awards for its fish and chips. The shop only purchases fish that has been processed and frozen at sea within six hours of being caught. Where: 36 High St, Hirwaun, CF44 9SW 13. Hiks This Swansea-based chip shop boasts a 42-seater restaurant adjacent to its original site. They place a strong emphasis on freshness, with all cod cooked to order. Their menu includes meal deals, desserts, and a build-your-own-burger option. Where: 189 Llangyfelach Rd, Brynhyfryd, Swansea SA5 9LE 14. The BoatHouse Fish Bar Experience the full package at this traditional fish shop located right on the seafront. Jessica and Chris, who are graduates of the Frying School of Excellence, offer a wide variety of fish options. If you're feeling adventurous, give their Irish curry or fishcake special a try. Where: 36 Esplanade, Porthcawl CF36 3YR 15. Boofy's Chips always taste better by the seaside, and the ones served at Boofy's are no exception. Expect generous portions, golden chips, and perfectly-cooked fish. This chip shop, which featured in the BBC comedy Gavin and Stacey, offers gluten-free chips every day. However, gluten-free fish is only available on weekends and must be ordered in advance. Where: 2 Western Arcade, Barry CF62 5TQ 16. O'Shea's Nowadays, O'Shea's and Boofy's are situated adjacent to one another, both renowned for their delicious fish and chips. Some patrons may be loyal to one shop, while others might alternate visits or make a spontaneous decision. Either way, those visiting Barry Island won't be disappointed when choosing between the Western Arcade pair. Where: 1 Western Arcade, Barry CF62 5TQ 17. Hennighan's Top Shop As a family-run enterprise, this fish and chip shop has consistently served high-quality food with impeccable customer service for over four decades. From its humble beginnings in a converted corner shop, the business has continued to impress multiple generations of customers in Machynlleth. Where: 123 Heol Maengwyn, Machynlleth SY20 8EF Hennighan's Top Shop (Image: Hennighan's Top Shop/Facebook ) 18. Chippy Dre-Sglod a Cod With a glowing review, calling it the "best fish and chips in Gwynedd" from one TripAdvisor user and boasting an unrivaled five-star rating, this fish and chip shop exceeds customer expectations. Where: 11-13 Church Street, Tremadog LL49 9RA 19. Fish Kitchen 1854 Having transformed from an abandoned Chinese restaurant, the updated establishment has evolved into this chic, family-friendly fish and chip shop, a place that seems to have resonated well within the community. Reviews praised both the culinary delights and the outstanding service. Menu highlights include crispy prawn offerings, fishcakes, and locally-grown onion rings. Also, look out for gluten-free dinner nights. Where: 58 Main Road, Maesycwmmer, Hengoed 20. Johnnies If you're a local to Mumbles, you're likely a regular at Johnnies, a true gem of a fish and chip shop that's an unmissable spot. Expect to join a queue, particularly on weekends, but the wait is rewarded with generous portions served in boxes and curry sauce that's simply perfect; a real hit with families. Where: 2a Chapel Street, Mumbles, Swansea, SA3 4NH 21. The Posh Fish and Chip Company For scrumptious fish dishes and friendly service, The Posh Fish and Chip Company in Cardiff is a must-visit venue. Fine options include succulent lobster and homemade fishcakes made in-house. Where: 1, Llantrisant Road Retail Park, Llantrisant Rd, Cardiff CF5 2BF 22. Plassey Fish Bar Seeking a hefty helping of splendidly fried fish and chips? Make your way to Plassey Fish Bar, just off Penarth's High Street. One happy customer wrote on their Facebook page: "The best chip shop in Penarth when you see a queue down the street you know it's going to be good and the staff are nice I wouldn't go anywhere else. 5 stars." Where: 87 Plassey Street, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan CF64 1EP 23. Les and Rita's Fish Bar Recognised by The Times as one of the UK's top fish and chip shops, Les and Rita's has been a staple for over 50 years, perfecting their craft of delivering top-notch fish and chips. The establishment was lauded for its traditional fish supper with bread that is neither "artisan nor sourdough", and its nostalgic décor. Chris Haslam, The Times' travel editor, wrote about the 55-year-old chippy: "Les and Rita Pidduck began selling chip suppers in Rhyl 55 years ago and the contemporary art adorning the walls of their shop on Wellington Road, a mere 10-minute stroll from the promenade, does little to alter the feeling that you've stepped back into the Swinging Sixties.... opting for takeaway would be missing out here. Instead, choose a booth - crafted from authentic vinyl and genuine Formica - and order a sit-down supper of fish, chips, mushy peas and bread that is neither artisan nor sourdough." Where: 28 Wellington Rd, Rhyl LL18 1BN 24. Yan's Fish Bar, Cardiff The chip shop in Cardiff has been dishing out proper traditional fish and chips since 1969, priding itself on using the freshest ingredients, sourced locally wherever possible. Their curry gravy and batter mix are unique to their kitchen. Where: 182 Whitchurch Rd, Cardiff CF14 3NB Yans Fish Bar 25. Page's Fish and Chips With nearly seven decades of experience, this establishment is a treasure trove of knowledge when it comes to crispy calamari, Thai crab cakes, and breaded whitebait. Where: Woodside Road, Cwmbran NP44 3EW (also a branch in Sebastopol!) 26. Finney's at The Golden Fry Catering to gluten-free diets with everything from vinegar to batter, The Golden Fry stands out for its fresh, sustainable fish and specials like battered smoked haddock, not to mention their new burger range. A chippy tea from here is sure to be a hit. They also have another location in Amlwch. Where: The Square, Benllech, Anglesey, LL74 8SN/1 Quay St, Amlwch Port, Amlwch LL68 9HD 27. Ship Deck As for the chips... : "Ship Deck's chips tasted good and we had a generous portion of them." Where: Newport Road, Trethomas, Caerphilly CF83 8BR Ryan Hughes of Ship Deck (Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne ) 28. Catch Cymru Tucked away halfway down a tranquil back street in the heart of town, this Welsh fish bar 'with a difference' may be inconspicuously located, but its reputation is anything but hidden. Since opening, it has become the talk of the town, propelled by glowing word-of-mouth recommendations. Online reviews from thrilled customers speak volumes. "Gorgeous breaded sea bass and homemade tartare sauce, haddock burger delicious and best chips I've eaten in ages. Will definitely be back," one customer wrote. Another review said: "Honestly the nicest fish and chips I've had! We also tried the halloumi fries on the side and the homemade coleslaw - both were beautiful. Would 100% recommend - well worth the trip up from Swansea!". Where: Red Lion Lane, Guildhall Square, Carmarthen SA31 1PN Catch Cymru (Image: Catch Cymru ) 29. Enoch's With a blend of "new skool attitude" and "old skool roots", Enoch's, an award-winning fish and chip shop in North Wales, boasts a rich history dating back to 1969 when it was first opened by fish merchant Arthur Enoch Hughes. Danny White-Meir took the helm in 2006, continuing the legacy with a promise that Enoch's fish and chips offer an unparalleled taste experience. Notably, they claim to be one of the few fish and chip shops globally to fry their food in a special high-oleic sunflower oil, which is heart-friendly. Their thick-cut chips are double-fried to achieve a divine texture. Where: 146 Conwy Road, Conwy, LL31 9DU 30. Ainsworth's Fish and Chip Shop This small chip shop has been recognised amongst the UK's 50 Best Fish and Chip Takeaways and 10 Best Fish and Chip Restaurants 2022/2023 by Fry Magazine. Despite its modest size, it packs a punch with its flavours. Customers have lauded their 'lovely batter' and homemade mushy peas on their own website. Location: 41 Bridge St, Caernarfon LL55 1AF 31. The Lime Crab Offering a fresh take on the fish and chips market, this shop serves up traditional favourites alongside exciting options like lobster, deep-fried halloumi, and tempura-battered prawns. If you're after fish and chips with a twist, this is your spot. They even cater to dietary requirements with gluten-free and vegan options. Location: South John St, New Quay SA45 9NP The Lime Cab (Image: The Lime Cab/Facebook ) 32. Fish Tram Chips Restaurant This licensed café offers classic fish 'n' chips in a relaxed dining room complete with table linen. Situated at the top of a hill opposite the Great Orme Tramway (hence the name), it's well worth the climb. Both locals and tourists love it, and they serve beans and mushy peas in a separate dish to prevent your chips from getting soggy - a thoughtful touch! Location: 24 Old Rd, Llandudno LL30 2NB Article continues below
The National
an hour ago
- The National
Historic Aberdeen church building price slashed after failing to sell
The historic building was formerly the Rosemount Parish Church, but is now named The Father's House, after it was transformed into an event space with a cafe. The C-listed Gothic-style church was renovated to also include meeting rooms, letting rooms, and a function hall which can hold up to 300 people and is described as ideal for weddings, birthdays, and conferences. READ MORE: There is a genuine silver lining in the SNP by-election loss There are also 17 en suite living rooms, with a mix of singles and double beds, spread amongst the two floors as well as a lounge and dining room along with a private carpark at the side of the property. The building also housed the Aberdeen North Foodbank for two years until September 2024 which was run by the Christ Apostolic Church House of Prayer. Situated in Caroline Place, The Father's House is in a well-connected location in the Granite City, but has failed to sell. The Father's House was listed for sale in August 2022, with a guide price of £1.1 million. However, more than two and a half years later, the property remains unsold. A massive £400,000 was then slashed from the price, bringing the guide price to £700,000 and has since been cut once again to £650,000. Simon Watson, business agent at Christie & Co, who is managing the sale, said: 'The business is currently vacant and provides an excellent opportunity for an incoming operator or developer.'
Scottish Sun
3 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
We swapped stressful UK for sun-drenched Spanish island & save £2.3k a month on rent – if you WFH, it's a perfect move
Dad Ruben Diegz reveals his top tips if YOU want to start a dream new life abroad just like his family-of-three GRAN PLAN We swapped stressful UK for sun-drenched Spanish island & save £2.3k a month on rent – if you WFH, it's a perfect move ENJOYING a sunset walk along the beach with his partner and their five-year-old son, Ruben Diegz relishes the warm air, music playing on the beach and quality family time. But the trio are not on holiday - they left Britain for a break four years ago and decided to stay, swapping their "stressed-out lives" to pursue a dream of beach living and a cheaper way of life. Advertisement 10 Ruben Diegz, his partner Lisa Perri and their son swapped their life in the UK to live on the Spanish island of Gran Canaria Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri 10 The family were lured by the sunny weather, beaches and laid-back way of life Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri 10 They rent a four-bedroom rooftop apartment for a fraction of the cost of a similar property in Surrey Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri Their new home is a spacious four-bedroom villa style apartment with sea views in Maspalomas, Gran Canaria, part of the Canary Islands located just 150 miles off the coast of Africa. In the island archipelago paradise, loved by Brit tourists for their cobalt blue skies, billowing palm trees and black volcanic sand beaches, a pint costs £1.50, cappuccinos around £1.40 and fresh seafood is in abundance. Advertisement The family pay just £700 a month for their four-bedroom apartment, which features an open plan roof garden and balcony for evening meals. Renting their island home is a third of the cost of a one-bedroom flat in London, which costs around £2,000 a month, and £2,300 a month cheaper than the cost of a similar size property in Woking, where the couple lived previously. Ruben, 40, tells The Sun he, his partner Lisa Perri, 36, and their son 'couldn't be happier or more content" with their new life. 'It was a snap decision, a life altering one, but I knew it was the right thing for myself and our family," he says. "We now get to raise our son in a sub-tropical paradise where the sun shines 300 days a year. Advertisement 'Making the decision was easy. Packing up home took longer, but it was worth the effort. 'We have access to amazing quality seafood, fruits and vegetables, everyone is more relaxed and less stressed. The best thing is our son is having an island upbringing." Dubbed a "miniature continent" and home to almost 300,000 expats, Gran Canaria is the third-largest of the Spanish Canaries and considered one of the best islands in Spain to live by Brits lured by warm weather and cheap rents. Stunning Seaside Miami-style beach hotel in Maspalomas offers sun, sand dunes and 70s chic Maspalomas, where Ruben and Lisa now call home, offers a cost of living which is half as cheap (48.5 per cent) as London. In 2023, Gran Canaria welcomed approximately 947,449 British tourists, a record high for the island, with that number expected to top a million this year. Advertisement Airline company staffer Lisa and Ruben, who runs an online e-commerce company, have been together since July 2010 after meeting through friends. The couple were living in Ruben's two-bedroom flat in Woking, Surrey, when they flew to Gran Canaria in March 2021, eager to escape lockdown and enjoy a sun-drenched holiday. Ruben recalls: 'Just flying out for a break was a huge relief. 'While we were there a new lockdown began and we couldn't leave the island. I wanted to be able to take our son to the park without seeing gangs of youths and be able to buy a meal out without having to get a loan Ruben Diegz 'There were no flights out, but thankfully both Lisa and I were able to work from home. We spent the next six months staying in an Airbnb on the island.' Advertisement The pair admit it was "an absolute joy". 'Everyone was so relaxed. The weather was amazing. The air was clean and the huge sense of worry which hung over Britain was not present,' says Ruben. 'I knew if we were to build a future, Gran Canaria was the place to do it. 'I wanted to be able to take our son to the park without seeing gangs of youths and be able to buy a meal out without having to get a loan. 'We both realised we had to make a radical change to ditch Woking and Britain for the no stress life offered in Gran Canaria.' Advertisement Easy decision 10 The family felt the Canaries offered a fresh start for them Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri 10 Ruben says the cost of a family meal out is usually under £40 Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri 10 Gran Canaria is adored by Brits Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri When they were able to return to the UK at the end of 2021, they flew home to tell friends and family they were moving abroad. 'They all thought we were crazy. Many people couldn't understand what motivated us or how we even planned to do it," Ruben admits. Advertisement 'They thought the idea was bonkers but it's the easiest decision we ever made." Ruben let out his Woking flat and used savings to fund the move. They began renting their Maspalomas apartment in January 2023. Back in Woking, renting a four-bedroom property would have set the family back approximately £3,000 a month. Lisa says: 'We can't believe how much space we have. Our son can play and have the best time. Advertisement Our rooftop is larger than the size of a normal British terraced house garden. Ruben Diegz 'Homes in Gran Canaria are more spacious, open plan and designed for relaxed family living and entertaining. The emphasis is on the quality of time you spend with each other.' Ruben adds: 'Our rooftop is larger than the size of a normal British terraced house garden - you can BBQ on it and enjoy relaxed evenings in summer." The couple's apartment was furnished but they say most landlords will allow you to move out items you don't want. Once they'd settled, Lisa found a job in a health and beauty spa before beginning her current role at an airline company. 'For many people, moving their entire life to a new country is terrifying," says Ruben. Advertisement 'As soon as we got back to Maspalomas I felt 10 years younger! The weight of the world lifted and the stress of living in Britain washed away. 'Life here instantly felt easier. We were welcomed by our neighbours and after two weeks I felt like I'd been living here all my life. 'The locals all say hello when you walk down the street. Everyone knows each other and there is a kindness you experience here that you don't get in London.' 'Healthy change' 10 Ruben says his health has improved since moving to Gran Canaria Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri 10 The couple admit their family thought they were mad Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri Advertisement During lockdown in Britain, Ruben suffered from stress alopecia, but since moving to Gran Canaria, it's disappeared. 'It was the healthy change my body needed," he says. "Lisa also feels amazing. Our family is glowing." Monthly bills are also significantly less costly than in the UK. Electricity, which includes heating and air conditioning as well as water, is £60 a month. The couple pay £28 a month for their internet, with a phone landline and two mobile phones included in the package. 'Wi-Fi is super-fast here. It's one of the reasons Gran Canaria is so popular with digital nomads,' says Ruben. Advertisement Our son attends the local international school and it costs £500 a month. That's half the price of nursery back in Britain Lisa Perri Ruben pays £28 for a premium gym membership each month. While cars are generally more expensive - the couple paid £4,000 for a second-hand Clio - they're cheaper to run. 'Petrol is £1.10 a litre," says Ruben. "A taxi will cost around £1.70 a kilometre - in London it is up to double the price." The family eat out at local restaurants at least three times a week, with a three-course meal for two costing less than £40. A local beer will set you back £1.15, while locally produced wine sells for £4.82 a bottle in the supermarket. Advertisement Island-grown tomatoes, bananas, oranges, avocado, papaya, olives, cucumbers and aubergines are always available in local markets and supermarkets. The couple spend £90 a week on supermarket shopping. Milk is 87p a litre, fresh bakery bread is £1, a dozen eggs costs £2.38 while locally produced cheese is £8.55 a kilo. 'It's amazing to buy fruit and veg just from the fields', Lisa says. 'You realise just how expensive it is to buy food in Britain when you live here. You start questioning why food back home is so expensive." New community 10 The family have made new friends by joining sports teams like their local Padel side Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri Advertisement 10 Their new family home is a dream for entertaining Credit: Ruben and Lisa Perri The couple say they've integrated well into the expat community by joining local sport groups. Ruben plays football for an expat team every Tuesday and Thursday, and the couple also play Padel. 'You get to connect with other expats on WhatsApp groups and everyone knows when the next game or match is and you are never short of a sport to play," Ruben says. 'Making friends is so much easier here.' Lisa says the high education standard is also a big draw for British expats. Advertisement She explains: 'Our son attends the local international school and it costs £500 a month. That's half the price of nursery back in Britain. 'We chose a nursery which is part of the school he will attend for primary school." Lisa adds the meals provided at for the children at school are gourmet compared to British schools. 'The school invited parents to come for lunch. I'd eat the school lunches here every day if I could," she admits. 'Our son is already bi-lingual. Being able to go to the beach for a quick early evening swim with him or have his pals over is so much easier here. The locals are very family-focused." Advertisement Our son is already bi-lingual Lisa Perri Flying to neighbouring islands like Lanzarote and Tenerife costs around £30. 'All the islands are different. You can visit La Gomera, an island with its own whistling language - not something you could easily do from Britain," says Ruben. 'For our family, the dream of island life has become a reality. We are definitely happier, healthier, and better off financially. 'Living in Britain at home seems like a blur now - we're focused on sub-tropical living, sunshine and hope now."
