In a time where the Western media appear increasingly obsessed about the lack of integration of poor third world immigrants living in Western countries, the British newspaper, The Guardian, has today (29th of March 2011) a thought provoking small article on British expats in Spain.

An estimated one million Britons live in Spain (around 2% of Spain’s population), but while some of them are fully integrated and speak fluent Spanish, the majority are not. Most live in expat enclaves, have only expats friends and are completely un-interested in the country they live. Many speak less than 10 Spanish words in an average weak and only 12% are registered to vote.

This situation is sadly not unique to Britons in Spain, but is found in most expat destinations around the globe and the lack of willingness to integrate is shared by most Western expat populations. How can Westerns be so outraged of the slow integration by poorly educated immigrants in their country if they themselves integrate even less when living abroad?

In Globedweller.com we believe that it is vital for expatriates to take an interest in their new country, learn the language and immerse themselves in the culture. If you share our views and want to either help expats become integrated in your country or as an expat get to know local people in the country of your residence then become a globe dweller!