Americans on the coast: Celebrating America’s 250th anniversary

A 250-year moment shared in Marbella

Perhaps we would place 250 candles on a cake, blow them out together, and wish for a bright future for all Americans. This July 4, America marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776 – a milestone in its history.

It has been my honour to serve as President of the American International Club Marbella. After Covid, rebuilding the club was no small task. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers and board members – including Milagros Hoffmeier, Jo Nelson, Claudia Pinzón, and Pat Salazar – and our members, we have brought the Club back to life and continue to strengthen it.

The Club has traditionally helped many Americans land and integrate into life in Spain. Settling in a foreign country is never easy – health, legal matters, and unfamiliar systems can feel overwhelming, especially without fluent Spanish. It can feel like a recipe for sleepless nights.

Within our group, we often share those 3am worries: Will I manage this or that? What about healthcare? Yet talking things through with others in the same situation turns uncertainty into reassurance, perspective, and practical advice. It often comes with the relief: “I thought it was only me.” What follows is a valuable exchange that makes the transition lighter and easier.

And of course, with a glass of wine, we also share the lighter side – the fun moments and anecdotes of life abroad. Like the time I struggled to park on a busy street, holding up traffic while seated in the car, steering the wheel, head turning between mirrors, focused on a tight space. Meanwhile, another driver kindly encouraged me from the window, cheerfully calling me “capullo.” I took it as encouragement, until I later discovered it was not quite the compliment I had imagined. One of those moments you can only laugh about afterwards, and always in good company.

The Club is more than a social gathering. It is a space for connection, friendship, and support – where American and international members share life in Spain under the colourful umbrella of the AICM and feel heard, understood, and at home.

We celebrate the richness of living abroad and value the hospitality of this beautiful country. We thank the Marbella Foreigners Department, Councillor Remedios Bocanegra, and Oti Díaz for their continued support and for listening to us as an international community.

Dear friends, this July 4 marks 250 years since our founding fathers envisioned a brighter future for America. We remain grateful to those who believed in that vision. We honour those who gave their lives so liberty could endure. A historic 250-year milestone.

Yes, we will celebrate in Marbella as the American International Club Marbella, in true July 4 spirit, as a joyful international community.

We wish every American on the Costa del Sol a joyful 4th of July – good company, a summer barbecue, a chilled slice of watermelon, and above all, safety, peace, and happiness.