It depends a little on the type of social life you lead back in UK and what your favourite past times are. If you are happy with your own company and gentle strolls and coffees then that is fine. If you like the rush of the City, theatre and a buzz then it may just be too quiet here. The good thing of course is to be seeing PP at its worst - January/February when almost everywhere is closed and the locals rarley go out - except when it snows when they are all out!! Having said that you can join ESRA, darts nights, dancing classes, a gym, helping at the animal refuge, adopt a dog from one of the many refuges, badminton classes, tennis classes, spanish classes, swimming classes and I am sure there are many more classes/events that I do not know about. Its a totally different way of life to what you are used to and its far from easy anymore. Good luck and keep us all informed of what you do. Could you not rent long term for 12months rather than purchase a property so that your money is safe whilst you test the ground. Here in Spain you can take a year off your job whilst you try something else (not sure under what conditions) but does something similar exist in UK? Could you work here??