From the American Dream to a New Life in Spain: Why These Seniors Chose Europe for Their Golden Years
After decades of building lives in the United States, several Cuban-American seniors are choosing to spend their later years across the Atlantic — not just for the cost of living, but for peace of mind, culture, and connection.
In May 2024, Grammy-nominated singer Karina Nuvo found herself at a breaking point. After 32 years in Southern California, juggling music, real estate, property management, and caring for her aging father, the stress became unbearable.
“I couldn’t focus on singing or real estate,” said Nuvo, 55. “My health was suffering. I had to do something.”
With the U.S. political climate growing increasingly tense as the 2024 election approached, Nuvo made a bold decision: she was moving to Europe.
Her father, Jose Novo, 87, who came to the U.S. from Cuba at 21, reminded her they had a path to Spanish citizenship. Thanks to the ley de nietos (Law of Grandchildren), descendants of Spaniards persecuted during the Franco era could apply for citizenship — but the law expires in October 2025.
When she asked if he wanted to join her in Spain, his response was instant: “Yep.”
What followed was a whirlwind. Nuvo sold most of their belongings, packed their lives into a few suitcases, and booked a one-way ticket to Spain.
Originally eyeing Málaga, Nuvo settled on the nearby coastal town of Fuengirola for its affordability and walkable layout — a perfect fit for her father’s needs. They landed in Spain in September 2024 with six pieces of luggage and a wheelchair.
Though she initially panicked upon arrival, Nuvo soon realized they had made the right choice.
“I called my son, crying, but he told me, ‘You’ve got this, Mom,’” she said.
Within weeks of their arrival, her mother and stepfather, Gloria and Cesar Tarafa, visited — and quickly decided to move, too.
Like Jose, they were born in Cuba but qualified for Spanish citizenship through Spanish-born relatives. After a short trip back to California, they sold everything and moved into Nuvo’s apartment by November.
“The political climate and cost of living in LA just didn’t make sense anymore,” said Cesar, 73.
Now living a slower, more connected life in Spain, Cesar and Gloria are thriving. They spend their days walking, enjoying late-night dinners, and connecting with locals in their native Spanish.
“In Monrovia, we were home by 6 p.m., watching TV,” Gloria, now 88, said. “Here, life begins at 6. You have a coffee, then dinner at 9. People sit for hours without being rushed.”
The cultural similarities between Cuba and Andalusia also made the transition feel seamless.
By early 2025, Jose’s health began to decline. In February, he moved into an assisted living facility in Marbella. While the decision was difficult, the quality of care — including meals, therapy, and activities — exceeded anything they experienced in the U.S. And it came at a fraction of the cost.
Nuvo visits him twice a week and speaks to him daily.
“He sits outside looking at the ocean, eating croquetas, speaking Spanish,” she said. “He tells me he loves it.”
Nuvo recently moved into a larger apartment with her mom and stepfather in the heart of Fuengirola. The rent is about $1,500 a month — half of what they paid in California.
As she awaits her Spanish work permit, Nuvo plans to restart her music career and help others interested in relocating.
“California will always be home,” she said. “But this was the right move. I’ve found a different kind of happiness here.”
For Jose, the move brought his life full circle.
“I left Cuba at 20 and worked in Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic. Life has always been one adventure after another,” he said.
Now in Spain, surrounded by a familiar language, heritage, and food, he feels at peace.
“Why would I regret it? My father was born in Asturias. My blood is Spanish,” he said. “If you’re thinking about making a move — follow your heart, and don’t be afraid.”
Source: CNN – They came to the US as kids for a better life. Now they’re leaving for Europe as seniors
