TV
You don’t need a licence to watch TV in Spain, which is probably a good thing if you’ve only got Spanish TV! It’s good for practising your Spanish and watching the news, but apart from that Spanish TV leaves a lot to be desired.
The programmes are funded solely by advertising, which explains why the adverts can go on for at least 20 minutes. You’ve more than enough time to make a cup of tea, go to the loo, put the cat out and do a crossword before the next enthralling programme starts.
In Spain there isn’t the wide choice of television programmes that other European countries offer. Spanish television offers a general mix of news, soap operas, films and chat shows. Censorship is very limited so care should be taken if children are watching TV as ‘x-rated’ programmes are sometimes broadcast during the day or early evening.
Satellite television is popular with expatriates and there are many huge satellite dishes in gardens all over the Costa Blanca. These can receive TV programmes from all over the world and the larger the dish the more channels you’ll receive. The size of dish you will require depends on your location and its relation to the signal strength.
If you’re considering satellite television you should shop around as prices are very competitive. You will pay a one-off fee for the equipment (dish and receiver) and installation. Some companies then charge a monthly fee.
You must also check that the company you are dealing with offers legal television. There are many rogue operators around who broadcast illegally – if they’re shut down so will your TV viewing be.