A Spanish woman who relocated from Spain to Dublin, Ireland, in search of better job opportunities, has shared her thoughts on the cultural differences between the two countries. TikToker Claudia Sebastian, who shares her experiences and learnings since moving to Ireland on her @clauditrips account, says many people can’t fathom why she would “give up a country with a wonderful culture, people and climate for a grey and dirty city”.
People have various reasons for making the life-altering decision to move countries – be it work, money, love or health. Regardless, relocation often prompts individuals to reflect on both the pros and cons of their new and old homes.
For Claudia, it’s made her appreciate all that she possesses. Explaining her decision, she stated: “I moved to Dublin because of the money, I didn’t come to learn English. I came to look for a job because there are more opportunities here and better pay.”
Claudia clarified that her decision to relocate was due to the “precarious” situation in Spain. “Lately, ‘I had nothing better to do in my country and I came here because the pay is better’ has become the phrase I hear the most,” she added.
Reflecting on her experiences, Claudia noted the cultural and economic disparities between Ireland and Spain. She shared that the Irish often find it hard to comprehend why someone would leave a country like Spain.
“For them, it is completely unthinkable to give up a country with a wonderful culture, people and climate for a grey and dirty city,” she said. This perception stirs mixed emotions in her.
She elaborated: “That makes me a bit angry because it makes me realise that they see Spain as the country of cheap coffee and beer, where people are always happy and enjoying themselves, without considering the difficulties we face every day.”
Claudia pointed out that in Ireland, financial struggles aren’t as prevalent as in Spain. “Living here has made me realise that the culture of effort and sacrifice that we have in Spain is based on a completely precarious country, where being able to save is a luxury,” she reflected.
Despite the challenges of emigration, Claudia believes this journey has broadened her perspective. “Thanks to [moving], I have been able to understand this culture and my own, and that has made me realise how lucky I am for all the things I have,” she explained.
With a touch of sentimentality, Claudia expressed her longing to return to Spain someday. “They dream of emigrating to Australia, and I dream of returning to my country with a salary that allows me to live and not only survive,” she concluded.