After years of stress and uncertainty in Southern California, Karina Nuvo, a two-time Grammy-nominated artist, decided to make a bold move to Europe. Her decision was influenced by both personal and political pressures, prompting her to explore new opportunities for herself and her family. By leveraging the Spanish "grandchildren’s law," which grants citizenship to descendants of Spaniards persecuted during the Spanish Civil War, Nuvo embarked on a life-changing journey with her father, Jose Novo, and later joined by her mother and stepfather. This relocation not only provided them with a fresh start but also significantly improved their quality of life.
The transition was not without its challenges. Nuvo faced health issues, caregiving responsibilities, and the daunting task of adapting to a new country. However, the move proved transformative as they embraced the vibrant culture and slower pace of life in Fuengirola, a coastal town on Spain's Costa del Sol. Their experiences highlight the benefits of relocating later in life, including reduced living costs, enhanced social interactions, and access to better healthcare facilities.
Seeking Refuge in a New Homeland
In the face of mounting stress from multiple jobs and caregiving duties, Karina Nuvo sought solace and renewal in Spain. Inspired by her father's ancestry, she pursued Spanish citizenship under the "grandchildren’s law." This legal pathway offered her family an opportunity to escape the high cost of living and political tensions in the United States. Despite initial doubts and anxiety, Nuvo persevered, finding comfort in the support of her loved ones and the promise of a brighter future.
Nuvo's journey began when she realized she could no longer balance her demanding career as a real estate agent and property manager with her passion for music and her role as a caregiver. The tipping point came during a particularly challenging period in 2024, marked by the loss of singing gigs due to the pandemic and the emotional strain of placing her father in assisted living. As the political climate in the U.S. grew increasingly tense, Nuvo felt compelled to seek refuge elsewhere. Her father's reminder about their eligibility for Spanish citizenship through his Spanish-born grandfather reignited hope. After selling most of their belongings and securing a suitable apartment in Fuengirola, Nuvo and her father embarked on their transatlantic adventure. Although fraught with uncertainty, this move represented a chance for renewal and healing.
A Shared Vision for a Better Future
Once settled in Fuengirola, Nuvo's family quickly adapted to their new surroundings, embracing the cultural richness and community spirit of their adopted home. The arrival of her mother and stepfather further enriched their experience, creating a supportive environment that fostered personal growth and mutual enjoyment. Together, they navigated the complexities of Spanish bureaucracy while reveling in the pleasures of Mediterranean living.
Within weeks of Nuvo and her father's arrival, her mother and stepfather visited and were immediately captivated by Fuengirola's charm. Encouraged by the prospect of applying for Spanish citizenship themselves, they soon joined the family permanently, selling their possessions in California to embrace a simpler, more fulfilling lifestyle. The couple marveled at the affordability and vibrancy of Spanish life, relishing late-night dinners, leisurely café visits, and the warmth of local friendships. While acknowledging some adjustments were necessary, such as coping with slower administrative processes, they found these minor inconveniences far outweighed by the joy and freedom their new life brought. For Nuvo, seeing her father thrive in an assisted living facility that exceeded expectations affirmed her decision. This shared endeavor underscored the power of family bonds and the courage to follow one's heart, regardless of age or circumstance.