The magic of Irish pubs – more than just a pint

What makes a place feel like home? Is it the people, the traditions, or the shared experiences that bring us together? Orihuela Costa, one of the most international areas in Spain, is a place where cultures blend, and communities thrive. Home to a vibrant mix of residents from the UK, Ireland, Scandinavia, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland, and beyond, it offers a unique mix of Mediterranean charm and international spirit.

At the heart of this lively atmosphere is the famous Cabo Roig Strip, one of Orihuela Costa’s most iconic locations. Every year, as St. Patrick’s Day approaches, this bustling street transforms into a sea of green, hosting over 60 acts, marching bands, dancers, and thousands of people celebrating Irish culture. But the spirit of community here goes beyond just one day.

Step into an Irish pub in Playa Flamenca, La Zenia, or Cabo Roig, and you’ll experience something special. It’s not just about a pint of Guinness - it’s about connection. Strangers strike up conversations like old friends, folk music fills the air, and laughter echoes across the room. These pubs are cultural hubs, places where sports debates spark friendships and where memories are made over Sunday roasts.

The British and Irish have carried this pub culture across the world, creating pockets of home wherever they go. In Orihuela Costa, and especially along the Cabo Roig Strip, this sense of belonging is strong, with a network of pubs, restaurants, and community events that make expats feel at home while embracing the Mediterranean lifestyle.

For me, Orihuela Costa is the place I have made my home. Having lived in Poland and the Netherlands before, I know how important it is to find a community where you truly belong. It’s here that I’ve found that same sense of connection - where friendly faces, local traditions, and shared experiences create a feeling of belonging. Whether it’s a quiet morning walk, a round of golf, or an evening in a lively pub, I know I’ve found my place here.

So, what makes a great community? Is it the traditions we bring with us, or the new ones we create together? What do you need to feel at home in a new place?