A famous 19th century poet (Elizabeth Barrett Browning 1806 – 1861) once wrote an ode about love, which went like this:

"How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach…"

More recently, the Oxford English Dictionary definition of the word 'love' is "an intense feeling of deep affection." Well, who'd have thought it was possible to love a land mass? Because, frankly, I'm in love with Spain.

Today, I am wearing an 'I love the Costa del Sol' T-shirt, and while it may be somewhat unorthodox attire amongst the smart attendees of my editorial meetings, it's certainly brought a smile to everyone's faces. And who wouldn't love España? Full of life, where good spirits are rife, nature and sun, sea and fun ... Blimey, I'm starting to sound like a poet.

But there's no doubt about it, southern Spain is the place to be. The perfect combination of modern European sophistication and ancient Spanish tradition. And just like any economically successful country, Spain has its fair share of jealous suitors and critics, who would do anything to spoil the honeymoon. How they've all been proved wrong!

With an expanding international airport, buoyant housing market and great lifestyle, all those spoilsports can take their miserable lives and shove them...well...this is a family magazine. And actually I prefer to spend my time reflecting on the positive things in life.

Speaking of positivity, don't miss our exclusive interview with Sir Ian 'Beefy' Botham. Now there's a man with sporting passion, who knew how to sock it to 'em! For him, winning was the only option. He's now joined another winning team; discover who on page eight.

So to sum it all up: when someone asks me 'why did you decide to move to Spain?' the answer is simple – it was love at first sight...

Cary Johnston – Editor