Valencia: A New Beginning After Heartbreak
A Fairytale Shattered
Maria Robertson-Justiniano was living what she described as a “fairytale” life with her husband Alex and their son in Chicago. Their future seemed secure and promising. But in 2018, tragedy struck—Alex died unexpectedly, shattering their world.
“It was a complete shock,” Maria recalls, describing how the loss upended everything. Staying in the U.S. no longer felt like an option. “I didn’t see it as a feasible option to stay there.”
Finding Healing in Valencia
Four years after Alex’s passing, Maria made the bold decision to relocate to Spain with her then 14-year-old son, Lucas. They settled in Valencia, a city deeply connected to her family history—her mother was born there.
“Valencia has helped us heal,” she says. Though Maria had spent time in Valencia before, even living there briefly in her 20s, she had never seriously considered it as her permanent home. Yet, she always carried a deep connection to the city.
Maria, originally from the UK and raised in Canada, moved to the U.S. in 1998 for college. She attended Princeton University, where she met Alex. After marrying in 2001, the couple built their life in Washington, D.C., and later in Chicago, where their careers flourished.
“Life in Chicago was everything,” Maria remembers. “We had a beautiful life. And then—it was like a bomb exploded. And you’re left standing there.”
Overwhelmed by Loss
The loss felt like a tsunami. “It’s calm and lovely, then suddenly, a massive wave takes you over,” she says.
In the aftermath, Maria was deeply moved by the support from the Evanston, Illinois, community. Parents from Lucas’s school organized a food train, ensuring she and her son had meals for three months.
“They left meals on my porch with letters, flowers, and notes. It was an incredible community,” she recalls.
Despite this, she struggled to move forward. “Alex was everywhere. I felt like I was trying to continue a life that was no longer possible.”
A Leap of Faith
Initially, Maria planned to stay in the U.S. until Lucas finished high school. However, during a visit to Spain in 2021, Lucas himself suggested they move.
Without hesitation, Maria acted. “I sold my house, my furniture, quit my job, and started the process of immigrating.”
The journey wasn’t easy. Buying a home in Valencia fell through, and she was ineligible for Spain’s golden visa program. Fortunately, she had already applied for Spanish citizenship while still in Chicago—a complex process made easier by her fluency in Spanish. Her citizenship was approved that same year.
When they finally arrived in Valencia, Maria describes it as an overwhelming relief. “It felt like reaching the promised land. Like finishing a marathon.”
A New Life, A New Perspective
Three years later, Maria and Lucas have embraced their new life in Spain. The change has brought peace and stability. “I feel like I’m a calmer person now,” she says. “I’ve done a lot of therapy and self-work.”
Back in the U.S., she had been training for an Ironman race when Alex died. “I was out of my mind, trying to distract myself from what happened.” In Valencia, she found the space to pause, reflect, and heal.
Lucas has also adapted well. “He embraced living here, and that made all the difference. It would have been difficult if he hadn’t wanted to move.”
Safety and Stability
Maria believes her son is safer in Spain. “I don’t worry about him going to school, which is a real concern for kids in the U.S. People don’t carry guns here, and that was a big incentive for us.”
Though Valencia is affordable compared to the U.S., Maria acknowledges the rising cost of living. “Housing prices have doubled. Young people struggle to afford living independently. It’s not easy for locals.”
Building a New Future
Over the years, Maria has noticed a significant increase in American expats in Valencia. “Twenty years ago, you rarely heard an American accent here. Now, there’s a huge community.”
She has no definitive plans but envisions staying in Valencia. “After losing Alex, I don’t make long-term plans anymore. But I do imagine my life here.”
She remains connected with her Chicago friends and often welcomes visitors. “Changing your environment opens new doors. I’ve met so many people I wouldn’t have met otherwise.”
Despite living in the U.S. and Canada for decades, Maria never truly felt at home. “It’s hard when you live in different places. But Valencia feels like home.”
Helping Others Find Their Path
Two years ago, Maria co-founded By the Sea Retreats, a wellness retreat company in Valencia and Sagunto. “I wanted to create something that helps people prioritize their mental health and wellness.”
She’s also launching Valencia Vibes Relocation, a company dedicated to helping others move to Spain seamlessly. “I wish someone had done that for me.”
Advice for Those Considering a Move
Maria urges prospective expats to prepare thoroughly. “Not all of Spain is sunny. If you’re looking for warm weather, avoid the northern regions.”
She warns that moving abroad is a significant life change. “It’s a huge decision. You’re leaving behind a life and starting over. Prepare yourself emotionally and financially.”
Despite the challenges, Maria has no regrets. “It wasn’t a smooth road, but it was the best decision I ever made.”
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