# The Mediterranean Dream: Why We Chose Oliva, Spain

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/where-do-gays-retire-podcast-5610253/the-mediterranean-dream-why-we-chose-oliva-spain
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/where-do-gays-retire-podcast-5610253/the-mediterranean-dream-why-we-chose-oliva-spain.md
Podcast: [Where Do Gays Retire Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/where-do-gays-retire-podcast-5610253)
Published: 2026-03-11T12:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://wheredogaysretire.com/home/the-mediterranean-dream-why-we-chose-oliva-spain
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/51927e12-7088-4cef-9297-d8fea28ddfa7.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/where-do-gays-retire-podcast-5610253/episodes/the-mediterranean-dream-why-we-chose-oliva-spain
Duration seconds: 6317

## Resource

Summary In this episode, Mark Goldstein interviews Brad Shreve and Maurice Chevalier, a couple who recently relocated to Oliva, Spain, after years of contemplating a move abroad. They share their journey of deciding between Ecuador and Spain, ultimately choosing Spain for its quality of life and community. The couple discusses their specific criteria for choosing a location, including a preference for smaller towns, affordability, and a welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQ+ community. They emphasize that their move was not an escape from the U.S. but rather a pursuit of a different lifestyle and culture. Brad and Maurice recount their experiences of moving to Oliva without ever having visited, highlighting their extensive research and the importance of community connections. They discuss the cultural adjustments they’ve faced, including the pace of life, meal times, and the siesta concept. The couple also touches on the cost of living in Spain compared to their previous life in California, noting significant savings in rent and utilities, as well as the quality of food. Their story is a testament to the joys and challenges of relocating to a new country, and they offer insights into the vibrant life they are building in Oliva. In this episode, Maurice Chevalier shares his experiences of living in Oliva, Spain, particularly as part of the local gay community. He describes the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, noting that being gay is a non-issue in the area and that a strong expat community regularly gathers for social events. Maurice discusses the ease of making acquaintances and the importance of community in their new life, emphasizing that they enjoy the local culture and the relaxed pace of life. He also touches on the practical aspects of living in Oliva, such as tr…

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