Just one year after the pandemic that brought limited travel and caused the 2020 summer season to be somewhat restricted, Marbella and the Costa del Sol have bounced right back to the top, with a summer season that can only be described as highly successful. It was wonderful to see the region come back to life, with people enjoying the space, natural scenery, climate and happy atmosphere of this coast.
Tourist arrivals and property transactions flourished during the summer, yet where there is normally a drop-off in visitor numbers from August into September, this year has seen a remarkable new development where this reduction in hotel stays has been negligible. As a result, the Costa del Sol is now not only experiencing its best summer season since the heights of 2019, but also looks set for the best September and October period since detailed records began in 2005.
The same is true of buyer interest in Marbella property, which remains at a high as a result of the quality of life available in this region. Another interesting trend is that while the majority of tourists and property buyers on the Costa del Sol continue to come from Scandinavia, the Benelux, British Isles, France, German-speaking countries and to a lesser extent Russia and the Middle East/Morocco, the proportion of Spanish visitors and buyers has returned to levels not seen for many years.
Demand for the Marbella way of life
The domestic market now accounts for around 40% of the total, as like with people from other countries, the pandemic and confinement experiences of 2020 have awakened a desire for greater quality of life. Of course the Costa del Sol has the space, greenery, open nature, leisure amenities, inspiring views, climate, outdoor lifestyle, happy sociable atmosphere and relaxed approach to life that the big, crowded urban areas simply cannot offer.
This year, therefore, the difference with 2020 is like day and night, and while classic markets such as those of Scandinavia, the Benelux and the British Isles have revived, there is more interest from Germany, France, Eastern Europe and the USA than ever. It looks like more and more people are discovering Marbella and the lifestyle it has to offer, both for short stays and longer-term residence, as many are also looking to relocate or have a ‘second prime’ home here.
The latter refers to long-term stays of several months or longer, something that is becoming increasingly viable for professional people too, and this is a growing trend as more of us work from home and make use of the co-working centres and good international communications of this region.
Contact MP Dunne Hamptons International if you would like more information about the property, work, schooling and lifestyle options that make Marbella and its surroundings so special.
Mary Dunne Partner & Private Office Advisor
Mary Dunne is an experienced Real Estate Broker in Marbella with over two decades of expertise in the luxury property sector. She offers profound insights into Marbella’s luxury market, backed by her extensive experience with property transactions’ financial and legal facets. Her deep market knowledge positions her as a trusted expert, providing tailored experiences for high-end clients and showcasing Marbella’s lifestyle.
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