The expatriate community

By Jason Moore IS Majorca's expatriate community changing? Are we seeing an increase in people moving to the island to work rather than retire? Is the average age of the expatriate far lower than 10 years ago? I ask these questions because, over recent months, many people have asked me how I feel the English-speaking community is developing. Sincerely speaking, I don't really know, although I have heard for many years that more younger people are moving to the island and local expatriate clubs are desperately seeking their membership. Well, firstly I would like to say that local clubs should not go the same way as most of Britain with its obsession with youth. Young people are all very nice but so are those who are slightly older! Secondly there have always been “younger expatriates.” When I was at school here, 80 percent of my class were British and their parents were British and of an age which most people suspose are the new expatriates. One of the reasons why there is such a debate on the size and age of the community is that the expatriate clubs have been in decline and are desperate for new members. I was pleased to see that both the U.S. Navy League and the Conservatives Abroad (leaving politics aside!) have welcomed new members over recent months. I think this is vital and local clubs and associations should be supported. Club Presidents and their committees have a nightmare time and all their hard work is for the benefit of others. They play a major role, and they should be congratulated for their hard work. One thing I would say though is that Minorca has come up with a novel idea, and an Anglo-Spanish Association. This has helped bring the expatriate and the local community further together...perhaps Majorca should take note.