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A New Life in the Sun - Season 11 - Episode 15
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00:01Every year, a new wave of dreamers pack up their lives and head for the sun.
00:05It just reminds me of the Wild West. It's just stunning.
00:08It's definitely very much different from a top floor flat in Edinburgh.
00:11And we're joining them as their adventures begin across Europe.
00:15This is what we've been waiting for. It's beautiful.
00:18That's the Atlantic Ocean.
00:20This is where the work begins, mister.
00:22Playing the part of chateau owners in France.
00:26We've never done this before. We're making it up as we go along.
00:29To launching fitness retreats in Bulgaria.
00:34But will their gamble pay off?
00:37Absolutely bonkers, but it's what we came for, yeah?
00:41Or will they fail to hit their target?
00:44Brexit has put the complications into overdrive.
00:48As they carve out, their new lives in the sun.
00:52I just still feel like I'm on holiday a little bit.
00:55It's not sunk in yet, but this is my actual home now.
00:58What a lovely place to live.
01:01Today...
01:01I'm scared of heights.
01:03..a couple in Spain are putting their guests through their paces.
01:06It looks nervous!
01:08It looks extreme.
01:11Hopefully we'll get a safe path.
01:14In France, a pair trying to tee up a standout feature for their gite...
01:18I wouldn't think it goes on there, would it?
01:20Yeah.
01:20OK.
01:21I read the instructions.
01:22...learn it's not all smooth putting.
01:25What's all these other poles in?
01:26I don't know.
01:28I don't know!
01:29Meanwhile, one couple in Spain reach a major milestone.
01:33I've covered every base I think I can possibly cover.
01:36I've even polished the books.
01:38I'm a bit nervous now, actually.
01:40As their first guests deliver the verdict on their holiday rental.
01:44Honest feedback.
01:45You know me, I don't like it.
01:46That's what worries about.
01:55In the foothills of Spain's Sierra Nevada mountains,
01:59the small town of Lanjaron has long been known as the gateway to the Alpajaras
02:04and for the crystal clear natural springs that flow through its valleys.
02:09Beautiful spring water.
02:10They say this Juventi especially is good for your eyes.
02:14It's also the home of yoga instructor Sharon and Chef Bongo,
02:18who traded their top floor flat in Edinburgh
02:21for a three-bedroom corteo in the hills.
02:24I couldn't see the dogs before.
02:26I can see everything now.
02:27It's a miracle!
02:29But as well as enjoying the crisp fresh air and clean mountain water,
02:33the couple have spent the last two years building various businesses,
02:37from Chef Bongo's takeaway meals to Sharon's yoga classes.
02:41They have also been renting an apartment below their house and hosting retreats.
02:48So we want to try and showcase how gorgeous this place is and get more people here.
02:53It's like a little hidden pocket.
02:54Anytime people have come for the first time, they're like,
02:56we didn't even know this was like that.
02:58It's incredible.
03:00But despite all their efforts getting their businesses going,
03:03the income they generate isn't quite enough to fully sustain their life in Spain.
03:08So this year they're launching bespoke holidays from their home.
03:13We're just hoping that business can build and we can have more bookings
03:18and we can obviously make some money.
03:21First year didn't make that much money.
03:23Second year we need to make a little bit more.
03:26It's the end of July and Sharon and Bongo have reached a major milestone,
03:32adding the amenities needed to get their business off the ground.
03:36Here we go.
03:38The outdoor yoga platform the couple began work on nearly two years ago is finally complete.
03:47The platform was just finished last week actually and really happy, really pleased with it.
03:53It gives a nice bit of shade and I think it's just the kind of perfect cover.
03:57So we still have that connection to nature.
03:59You can see outside, but you just have that little bit of covering from the sun.
04:03Up until now, she's been running her weekly yoga classes at a studio in town, cutting into their profits.
04:12But today, Sharon is finally holding her class at its new regular spot.
04:17This is only the second time that I've actually taught on this platform.
04:20It's so nice to actually practice in the open air.
04:24OK, so let's find a seated position.
04:26So just find a nice comfortable seat.
04:28Close your eyes or lower your gaze.
04:31And just take a couple of big deep breaths.
04:38Back through centre, right hand down, side stretch.
04:42As the yoga class comes to an end, the platform is proving a hit.
04:47We've been having our practices inside, which is a bit turdious when it's hot.
04:52But this has been absolutely wonderful.
04:55It's a revelation.
04:56I'm so glad she ended up in our valley.
04:59Sharon and Bongo's yoga platform has cost them 3,000 euros.
05:03So it's vital they bring in more business if they want to recoup that investment.
05:09Hasta luego, darling.
05:10Hasta luego.
05:11See you.
05:12So with that in mind, Sharon is turning her attention to social media
05:16to build up some interest for their very first bespoke holiday package in three months' time.
05:23So I've made a little poster on social media just with everything that we're doing.
05:29So this is what we've called it.
05:30So retreat yourself, build your own bespoke holiday.
05:34People can choose from lots of different activities.
05:36We have the foraging feast with Belen that we've done before.
05:40Walk wine tasting at lunch at the local Borrega.
05:42Some olive oil tasting.
05:44Spanish night with our Spanish guitarist, Jose.
05:46And then we've got the hiking, climbing, horse riding, cycling.
05:50We've got movement classes with me.
05:53And also the potential of massage with me as well if people would like.
05:57And then cooking lessons with Chef Bongo.
06:00So really you can build the holiday to whatever you want to do.
06:03More relaxing or more active.
06:07In typical Sharon and Bongo fashion, there are plenty of activities on offer.
06:13And at an introductory price of 55 euros per person, with additional activities on top,
06:19the couple are hopeful it will entice guests to give their business the cash lift it needs.
06:25At the moment we have potentially three or four people booked.
06:30So I'm really hoping that even if it's low numbers for this one,
06:32that if people start to see what they can do and what can happen,
06:36then hopefully when we arrange the next one after this,
06:39then it will be busier and busier and it will just be something that will build.
06:44Now the word is out, it's a waiting game for Sharon and Bongo.
06:48Will their new holidays pull in enough bookings to boost their finances before the summer sizzles out?
07:02The Vienne in south-west France has something for everyone.
07:07From bustling city living to the tranquillity of rural life.
07:14It's nice, isn't it? Really pretty.
07:17And for retired project manager Mark and former hairdresser Hayley...
07:22Wow, look at it. Stunning, isn't it?
07:27Countryside calm was just the tonic they needed when they moved here from Kent just under a year ago.
07:33Moving to France, we tend to eat healthier and then you enjoy the outdoor lifestyle.
07:38And we live better for it.
07:40Their French adventure was born after Mark fell seriously ill
07:44and the couple took stock of their long-term careers.
07:47Mark had to slow down a bit after his illness.
07:50And I think after that, life just changed.
07:52Yeah.
07:53We're dead enough in the UK, so let's try something new.
07:57Mark and Hayley left their three grown-up children in the UK
08:01to purchase this €450,000 former farmhouse on four acres with three geats near Sivray.
08:10And since opening just under a year ago, they've been focused on turning it into a steady income.
08:16We've always worked well as a team when we've got hobbies or jobs to do.
08:21So, yeah, I think spending 24 hours with Mark is absolutely fine.
08:25I think.
08:27There is always the garden where I can go and hide or sit on a tractor.
08:31OK?
08:32Yeah.
08:33With their first season under their belts, the couple have plans to grow the business.
08:38With experienced golfer Mark keen to tap into a new market
08:42by transforming part of their land into creating a golf practice area,
08:47complete with three tee boxes and a green.
08:51So, hopefully, like, with the golf course that I just give the men and the women,
08:55you know, something to come out and have experience with their children
08:58that I probably wouldn't do anywhere else.
09:00I mean, we're in the hands of Mother Nature, really.
09:02So, if it rains and there's a bit of sunshine, then the grass grows
09:06and then we can get it done quicker.
09:07But just to get the golf area up and running,
09:09we'll just add to the whole experience of people coming.
09:16It's late March and the golf green is now seeded.
09:19So, while he waits for the grass to grow,
09:22Mark's repurposed an old garden shed into a club hut for his new golf course.
09:30And Hayley's on hand giving it a fresh coat of paint.
09:35Hopefully, it'll preserve this little shed for a few years.
09:40They say don't watch paint dry and don't watch grass grow.
09:45So, every day I come out here and watch the grass grow.
09:49Painting complete, it's time for Mark's joinery to shine.
09:53That is heavy.
09:55He's knocked up a brand new door for the shed.
09:58The front of it is tongue and grease floorboards.
10:01The wood's really, really expensive,
10:02so you have to look for alternatives.
10:05The glass come from a local charity shop, so I paid two euros,
10:08so that's even better.
10:11Hinges on and the new door is in place.
10:14Moment of truth.
10:16Oh!
10:17Ta-da!
10:19And there's just one finishing touch to add.
10:22This was a gift for my daughter for Christmas.
10:25Had it made up with a name on it, so it's all good.
10:32Thirteen days later...
10:33Got it? Yeah.
10:34Come on.
10:35The next piece of Mark's golfing vision is ready to be installed.
10:40Looks like it's all numbered, but with all these things,
10:44you never know till you get it out.
10:46He spent ÂŁ450 on a golf cage,
10:49a netted structure for practising his swing.
10:52Oh, it's a bit of grass.
10:53Oh!
10:54All they have to do is slot it together.
10:58I've got the instructions in,
10:59and I'm actually going to read them this time.
11:01Fuck Lee.
11:02Bought my glasses.
11:05Connect pole one to either side of pole two.
11:08Repeat to make 11 full-size poles.
11:11So just whack them together.
11:14Ones and twos.
11:15OK.
11:16I wouldn't think it goes on there, would it?
11:18Yeah.
11:20OK, I read the instructions.
11:22The poles clicked together in just 15 minutes.
11:25That's it.
11:25But Mark's spotted a problem.
11:28What's all these other poles in?
11:29I don't know.
11:32It's got to be three metres by three metres,
11:35and that's two metres by two metres.
11:37I thought it was a bit small.
11:42Oh, dear.
11:43I didn't need new glasses in my defence.
11:48We've got to take it all down.
11:50Oh, I'm gutted now.
11:53A short while later, and the frame is increased to the proper dimensions.
11:58A little bit bigger than it was before.
12:01And with the net tied in place, followed by a second impact net and a target...
12:08It's not far off, is it?
12:09No, not at all. Spot on.
12:11..the cage is ready for Mark to test.
12:13Are you ready?
12:16Look at that.
12:17I even hit the target first off.
12:18Oh, I don't think you did.
12:20Get it!
12:21Let me have a go.
12:22Let me have a go.
12:23Let me have a go.
12:27Oh, totally fine.
12:34Coming up...
12:35OK, three, two, off we go.
12:39Sharon and Bongo's first bespoke holiday kicks off with a bang.
12:43Higher! Higher!
12:45You're evil, Sharon.
12:46While a couple in Spain's renovations are put under scrutiny.
12:51Oh, my dog.
12:52As their first guests arrive.
12:55I feel like an emperor looking out on my domain.
13:08High above the bustling Mediterranean coastline lies Torbithcon,
13:13a small, sun-drenched village offering a true taste of authentic Andalusian life.
13:19We have to remind ourselves that, yeah, this is home, we're not on holiday.
13:23Exactly what Ian and Bev from Lancashire came here to find.
13:28I've been totally taken aback by how quickly my mindset changed
13:32and it just seems to have been like somebody's flicked a switch.
13:36And I really have less care in the world on what tomorrow's going to bring.
13:41The couple bought this five-bedroom house for 56,000 euros
13:45and having said goodbye to their lives back in the UK,
13:49they've been relishing life here in the mountains.
13:54Good morning, Melanie.
13:56And you too?
13:58Muy bien.
13:59As well as learning the lingo...
14:01Como van los perros?
14:02How are the dogs?
14:05Los perros?
14:06Si.
14:10Bien.
14:12The couple plan to open a new business here and have spent the last few months tirelessly working
14:18to convert the top floor of their own home into a cosy two-bedroom holiday rental.
14:24This isn't just a business, this is our whole life, this is what we want now.
14:28And we just can't wait to get the family over, can we?
14:31I'm dying for everyone to see it.
14:36It's now the end of September and Ian and Bev are preparing for an important day ahead.
14:42Ian's gone to Malaga Airport to pick up his parents.
14:46I'm excited for them to come and see the property.
14:51Ian and Bev are hoping this holiday rental will fund their new life in Spain.
14:55So this test booking is essential to understand if all their hard work has been enough to satisfy potential customers.
15:03This has been two months of proper grafting. I'm dead proud of it.
15:07I hope people like it as much as I do.
15:10I've covered every base I think I can possibly cover.
15:13I've even polished the books.
15:16I'm a bit nervous now actually, I said that.
15:18But we'll see, we'll see, it'll be fine.
15:23That...is it.
15:24And Bev won't have long to wait to find out.
15:27Let's go. Are you up or down? No, down.
15:30As Ian has just arrived with his parents Val and Block.
15:35I'll tell you what, why don't I let you...
15:38Do us. Open it.
15:39The key of the door.
15:41Oh, my God.
15:44Oh!
15:45Oh, this is beautiful, Ian.
15:47I love that fireplace.
15:49Oh, yeah.
15:50Yeah, it's beautiful.
15:53Thankfully, first impressions are promising.
15:56Your bedroom's in there.
15:58Oh, look at that view.
16:00It seems to be better, look at that.
16:02Yeah, that's not bad, is it?
16:03Oh, it's gorgeous.
16:04Get with that every morning.
16:06You just feel better in yourself.
16:08He's done wonders, cos I've only seen photographs of when he bought it.
16:13And what he's done with it is brilliant.
16:15He doesn't take after me.
16:18Takes me three years just to paint a wall.
16:22But Ian and Bev have saved the best till last.
16:25This is why we decided to buy the property.
16:29Wow.
16:31It's gorgeous.
16:33Fantastic.
16:35It's just not very imagined.
16:37It's much better.
16:38What a lovely valley.
16:39It is.
16:39It's gorgeous.
16:41Ian and Bev's guests will be staying all week and will provide the perfect opportunity to get some honest feedback
16:47on their new apartment.
16:50So whilst the couple head back down to their own house to prepare some welcome drinks...
16:55I feel like an emperor looking out on my domain.
16:58...their guests have a chance to settle in.
17:00You won't get rid of us now, will you?
17:02No.
17:03I've got the key.
17:04Yeah.
17:04You've had it.
17:05And it's clear to all, Andalusian mountain life has brushed off on Bev and Ian.
17:10You can just see the difference in the both of them, can't you?
17:13Some people like Ben and Dawn now.
17:15Give me this every day.
17:17Some tapas and sangria.
17:18How about that?
17:19Oh, look at this.
17:22We're so Spanish just now, aren't we?
17:24Cheers!
17:26Ian and Bev have spent €5,000 updating their apartment.
17:30Not to mention the endless hours of work.
17:33So their guests' reaction is a huge relief for the pair.
17:37I know they're my mum and dad and so they're always going to be relatively kind with what they say.
17:41But they were truly blown away by what we've got and where we are.
17:47Yeah.
17:48It's gone better than I thought it was going to go actually.
17:51While first impressions are good, there's a long week ahead in a house so far untested.
17:57Will these first time hosts rise to the challenge or have they bitten off far more than they can chew?
18:05I think we'll have our first eviction on our hands in a week's time.
18:09I think I'll be having to drag them out and put them on the plane.
18:13He's sort of going back in January.
18:15Oh, there needs to be an invitation on me, I'm afraid.
18:18You can't just turn up.
18:26Just 45 minutes northeast in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, it's now mid-October and it's a full
18:36house at Sharon and Bongos.
18:38Here we go.
18:40There's a bit of toast there and then some egg and tomato and a little bit of avocado.
18:44Tomatoes are from our garden.
18:45Not only do they have three guests checking out of the main house this morning,
18:50but they're also hosting two guests in their apartment below.
18:54Kirsten and Andy, who've travelled over from Edinburgh after signing up to Sharon and Bongos' very first bespoke holiday.
19:03Our guest for our bespoke holiday just arrived late last night.
19:07Luckily, it's a girl that used to come on retreats and come to classes and she's come back to try
19:12out the bespoke holiday.
19:13Just met Andy, our boyfriend, we're just doing breakfast for them and then planning the week ahead.
19:19It'll be very exciting as soon as we've had a pint of coffee and we've woken up.
19:23Though the numbers for this week may be lower than the couple hoped, the stakes are just as high
19:29and Sharon and Bongos have plenty of activities planned to make their guests stay memorable.
19:35I think we've got quite a few things planned.
19:37So we've got some hiking, some climbing and yoga, circuits.
19:43I mean, anything you can think of, I think we're doing it.
19:44I wasn't aware we were going to be straight into a strength session after breakfast.
19:48So, yeah, it's all news to me.
19:51The couple will be joining Sharon's weekly circuits class
19:54and with the class regulars having already arrived, there's no backing out for Andy now.
20:01But before Sharon can kick things off, she and Bongos first need to check out their other guests.
20:08Thank you so much for having me.
20:11Hopefully, maybe we'll see you again sometime.
20:13Of course.
20:14We're definitely going to come back, yeah.
20:15Cool.
20:15OK, see you later.
20:16Safe travels.
20:18Thank you so much.
20:19Safe travels.
20:20Yes, guests just leaving, class about to start.
20:22I'm going to go and explain to them what they have to do for their torture class.
20:26But yeah, busy morning.
20:27Bongos going to finish the dishes.
20:29Be nice to them.
20:30While Sharon and Bongos had hoped for more guests on their first bespoke holiday,
20:35they are nevertheless set to make 1,100 euros this week.
20:40OK, three, two, off we go.
20:44And that's not including any additional activities their guests add on.
20:48Everyone's doing really well.
20:49Those hips could be a little bit lower.
20:51They just need to make sure Andy and Kirsten have plenty of energy left to enjoy them.
20:58Keep lifting that head and chest.
21:00Higher.
21:02Higher.
21:02You're evil, Sharon.
21:08The following morning, Sharon and Bongos have driven 30 minutes down the road,
21:13near the coastal town of Motrol, to a rock climbing spot.
21:17Mr Llaneron.
21:19Hey!
21:20How are you?
21:23Where they and their guests will be joining local guide Felipe for today's climb.
21:28Today's going to be nice.
21:30Simple.
21:31One pitch.
21:32Maybe, what, 20 metres, that'll be it?
21:34Yeah, not all the way up to the top, maybe.
21:37Who knows?
21:38Who knows?
21:39Who knows?
21:39The group are today in their Tajo de los Bados, a dramatic river canyon with cliffs rising
21:46from the Guadalfeo River below.
21:48With over 100 climbing routes to choose from, they've opted for a gentle beginner's climb,
21:54guided every step of the way by Felipe's expert knowledge.
21:59And after a strenuous climb to the start point...
22:02This is the wall up.
22:04...novices Andy and Kirsten...
22:07Are feeling a little apprehensive.
22:09This is a bit of a new experience for me.
22:11Looks extreme.
22:13Hopefully we'll be...
22:15Get a safe path up.
22:17He looks nervous!
22:20And their lack of experience isn't the only obstacle today.
22:25This is very good.
22:28I'm scared of heights.
22:29Which is why you should be climbing.
22:30Which is why, yeah.
22:31That's why I started climbing when I wasn't a climb.
22:33Yeah, exactly.
22:33So, the only way to overcome the fear is to do it.
22:36So, yeah.
22:38Gotta...
22:38Gotta do it.
22:40Safety gear in place, the group prepare to ascend.
22:43With Sharon and Bongo hopeful they've struck the right balance to keep their thrill-seeking
22:48guests on their toes...
22:56..without pushing them too far.
23:00OK, man.
23:02OK.
23:10Coming up, it's checkout time at Ian and Bev's.
23:13The invoice is on its way already.
23:15But will the couple's hospitality measure up?
23:17Here's my three euros.
23:20While disaster strikes at Hayley and Mark's...
23:23We've had a bit of a drought.
23:24The sunshine's been out constantly.
23:26As the summer wreaks havoc on their golf green.
23:29The ground is just so solid.
23:31If we watered it now, the water would just sit on the top and evaporate away.
23:46In Sivray, it's mid-April.
23:50And after a spell of wet weather, Mark and Hayley's homemade golf course is in fine form.
23:56We've had Mother Nature doing a bit, really.
23:58Grass has grown quite a lot in the last two weeks.
24:00We've been lucky and blessed with bright sunshine and an odd shower of rain, so it's really done us a
24:05favour.
24:06And Mark is taking his lawn care very seriously.
24:10I'm probably out here every couple of days, tinkering with the green, keeping the grass cut.
24:15The more you cut it now, the stronger the grass becomes and it embeds the root.
24:19But there's one element Mark can't wait to add to the green.
24:24Just because I'm impatient, I really want to put the hole in the green.
24:27I want to get a few publicity shots as well done so that we can actually promote the green and,
24:32to our guests really, put it on our website.
24:37He's using an auger made specially for cutting golf holes.
24:42Perfect. Nice hole.
24:45And with the cup installed, there's just one last piece of the jigsaw to place.
24:52I was too early, but I was desperate to put it up.
24:57My mum's heavily into embroidery and we've managed to get the logo for our yeets put onto the flag.
25:03She embroidered it all. It's on both sides. It looks really good.
25:07It's just a finishing touch, really.
25:16But the new golf green isn't the only thing keeping Mark and Hayley busy.
25:21Hello! So lovely!
25:25It's so nice to be back.
25:28Business at the Jeets is picking up.
25:31Good journey? Yeah.
25:32And for returning guests Vicki and Peter, the transformation of this once overgrown patch of land is quite something.
25:41A potting green? Yeah.
25:43My goodness!
25:45This is the magic.
25:47How did that?
25:48It's so level.
25:50I can't believe it. I'm absolutely gobsmacked.
25:54What can you say?
25:55We were absolutely astonished when we arrived.
25:58Hayley and Mark have done so much in the nine months that we've been away.
26:03We knew they were busy, but not quite as busy as they have been.
26:06Yes.
26:07It's incredible what they've done and I'm sure it will be a great asset.
26:11It's really lovely.
26:12They're so enterprising and so clever.
26:16But just five weeks later, as June draws to a close, the summer heat is beginning to take its toll,
26:23leaving the new grass looking a little worse for wear.
26:26We've had a bit of a drought. The sunshine's been out constantly. I can't remember the last time it really
26:32rained properly for more than an hour.
26:35More than anything else, we want to keep the green alive. We spent a lot of money on the grass
26:38seed.
26:38We just want to make sure that stays alive really, don't we?
26:41Yes.
26:42I've got a water supply down there that we fitted, but it's just not man enough and if we left
26:47it on constantly, it would be too expensive to run.
26:50After months of preparing the ground, not to mention the ÂŁ200 spent seeding it, Mark's beloved grass is fading in
26:58the 40 degree heat wave.
27:00The ground is just so solid. If we watered it an hour, the water would just sit on the top
27:05and evaporate away. You just wouldn't be able to use it.
27:08Mark's been online looking for ways to fight the damage and found a long trusted remedy was already on his
27:14kitchen worktop.
27:17Simple hand soap will break down the surface like a watered down soap. It will literally open the surface up
27:24so that when you do water it later in the day or whatever, the water will go into the ground.
27:30We've done it over the last couple of days and there's just a nice little green tinge isn't there again
27:34to the grass.
27:36Armed with a car wash sprayer and some liquid hand wash, Hayley's become a dab hand at dousing the sun
27:43-baked soil.
27:44Smells nice.
27:47Watching the grass is mad.
27:49While Hayley is happy to rescue the grass, she has no plans to use the facilities once they're finished.
27:56Don't do golf, whatsoever.
27:58I don't mind a little bit of pigeon part when you're on holiday, but that'll be about it. But no,
28:03not at all. It's Mark's thing. So, but we've got the room here, so you might as well use it.
28:09Such a good wife, aren't I? Such a good wife.
28:12No, no, let me pick up on that one.
28:14Oh, please do, Mark.
28:16So, if I can clean sheets, Hayley can water and cut grass, so it's fair distribution of effort.
28:22It is a bit of a teamwork, isn't it?
28:23It is teamwork, yeah.
28:24Apparently teamwork makes a dream work, you know.
28:30Right, you've got to fill this up for me.
28:32Yeah.
28:34As Mark and Hayley head into peak season, it's essential the course is operational as soon as possible.
28:40Not only for their guests to enjoy it, but for their investment to pay off.
28:51At Ian and Bev's hilltop house in Torvithcon, Ian's parents Val and Block have reached the end of their week
29:00-long stay in the holiday let.
29:01It's just been really, really beautiful.
29:04I couldn't live here, to tell you the truth.
29:06Just such a lovely place.
29:09With everything in the apartment running smoothly, it's a huge relief for the novice hosts.
29:14And the pair have even managed to enjoy some rare time off with their guests.
29:21It's been like a little holiday for us, hasn't it?
29:23It has, yeah.
29:24It's given us an excuse to actually explore a bit more of the area because we've been so busy with
29:30the properties.
29:30It's been a nice week.
29:32Yeah, it's been good.
29:35Only us.
29:36Guest book time.
29:38Before they check out, Val and Block get the honours of leaving the very first message in the guest book.
29:43We now want some honest feedback.
29:46No silly feedback.
29:48Honest feedback.
29:49If you know me, I don't lie.
29:51That's what we'll read about.
29:56Here we go.
29:58Your first one in your book, Ian.
29:59Oh, there's many more.
30:01Thanks, Dad.
30:02Do we read that when you've gone?
30:03Wait for mother playing.
30:05Right, OK, let's do that.
30:07Ian and Bev are keeping everything crossed for a glowing first review after winning their guests over with both the
30:14apartment and the surrounding area.
30:17You see why you two are here now?
30:19Yeah.
30:20At first I was a bit scared.
30:22I apprehended it.
30:22You made a great move.
30:23I'm just happy for you.
30:24Proud of you.
30:25Yeah.
30:26Good, I'm glad she's late.
30:27Well done.
30:27The invoice is on its way already.
30:29It's OK, it's fine.
30:32Here's my €3.
30:36As their first visitors set off for the airport, Ian and Bev can take a moment to reflect on how
30:45far they've come since leaving the UK three months ago.
30:50I'm proud that we've got this far and I'm proud that we're, you know, ready for guests. We've done it,
30:55haven't we?
30:56Yeah.
30:57I think we've tracked it here.
30:58Have you got your passports?
31:00Yeah.
31:00Don't worry, Ian, we've got our passports.
31:02Yeah.
31:02Make sure we go on that flight.
31:14With their first guest visit in the bag and tourist license on the way, the couple are hopeful it will
31:20only be a matter of time before their guest book is brimming with positive reviews.
31:26Would you like to read the first comments?
31:28We would like to thank Ian and Bev for a wonderful time. They are perfect hosts and the accommodation was
31:35faultless. Val and Block.
31:38Happy with that.
31:39Yeah.
31:39Nice, wasn't it?
31:40Yeah.
31:45Ian and Bev's leap of faith has truly paid off.
31:49Yeah, that map's ideal. I'd love to explore all of them.
31:52Well, we will do.
31:53No, it's all done.
31:55And as they settle into life here in this picturesque Spanish village...
32:00I fancy a bit of, erm...
32:02Snowboarding.
32:03Snowboarding or something.
32:04That'll be fun.
32:05...their next chapter is ready to unfold.
32:08And we'll check it all out.
32:10My overwhelming feeling is of relief.
32:13We're definitely ready now to take paying guests because we need to bring that money in.
32:17It'd be lovely to introduce other people who don't know the area to what it's got to offer.
32:22And with the final cost of renovations totting up to 5,000 euros, they've even managed to come in under
32:30budget and ahead of schedule.
32:33Because we've pretty much done all of the work ourselves.
32:36We've fitted kitchens, we've fitted bathrooms.
32:39We've saved a lot of money.
32:41Definitely, yeah.
32:42And that's part and parcel of the fun.
32:44I would suggest to anybody just...
32:46Have a go.
32:46Just have a go, just do it.
32:48For Ian and Bev, life back in the UK is a distant memory.
32:52And with so much to look forward to in their new home and surroundings, the best is yet to come.
32:58Living here has been one of the best choices we've ever made, isn't it?
33:02I've been walking up this hill with me stick.
33:05And you're an old lady.
33:07I hope so.
33:08I best hurry up and buy that stick.
33:09Yeah.
33:10Shall we?
33:11I feel alive again now.
33:14Yeah, me too.
33:15I still pinch myself a little bit thinking, my God, we did it.
33:19Have you got any regrets?
33:21No.
33:22No, not at all.
33:24My regret is we didn't do it sooner.
33:25Yeah.
33:31Coming up at Mark and Hayley's...
33:33Right, Howard, let's get you a putter.
33:37Will their golf course drive them to success when they put it to the test?
33:42I will just mention I got a hole-in-one on here the other week.
33:45But no-one saw it, though.
33:46And Sharon and Bongo's guests reach dizzying heights.
33:50Hold on to your rope with both hands.
33:53Go on!
33:54As the couple deliver an unforgettable experience.
33:57I'm just trying not to think about it too much, so I'm just going to go for it and try
34:02and enjoy it.
34:11Back over in the Spanish hills, Sharon and Bongo are in the midst of hosting their first bespoke holiday, with
34:18thrill-seeking guests Kirsten and Andy.
34:21See where you can put your feet.
34:22Take your time, Andy, there's no rush.
34:25Who may or may not be regretting their choices, as local guide Felipe navigates them through their first outdoor climb.
34:33He was really nervous, so...
34:35But he's actually got up there super quick.
34:40With Andy making it to the top in no time...
34:44Yes! He's touched the top!
34:47What have you?
34:49How did I get down?
34:51Extreme!
34:52He just needs to make it back down again in order to reach terra firma.
34:57Just lean back.
34:58Let go with your hands.
34:59Hold on to your rope with both hands.
35:02Go on!
35:08Spurred on by the group's encouragement, Andy makes it back down safely, where he can breathe a huge sigh of
35:15relief.
35:18Yay!
35:19Well done!
35:20Woohoo!
35:21Well done!
35:24Very nervous going up.
35:27But once I got to the top, I was relieved I got there.
35:30And coming down was more difficult than I thought as well, but I did it, so I'm happy with that.
35:36Next up is Kirsten, whose fear of heights could make this climb a little more complicated.
35:43I'm just trying not to think about it too much, so I'm just going to go for it and try
35:47and enjoy it.
35:48So I'll just be happy to get to the middle, so...
35:50With Bongo an experienced climber of 35 years assisting, Kirsten sets to work.
35:58OK, OK.
35:59Perfect.
36:00Well done!
36:01And before long is surprising them all.
36:04She's doing brilliantly.
36:05She's flying up there.
36:06I thought she had wings at one point.
36:07Well done, Kirsten.
36:09Top of the world!
36:14Whee!
36:18I did it!
36:19A quick descent and she's back on solid ground.
36:23Touchdown!
36:24Oh!
36:25That was amazing!
36:26High five!
36:27High five!
36:28Woo!
36:29Oh my God, thanks Bongo!
36:32When I first saw that cliff I was a bit nervous, I'm not going to lie.
36:37But very happy with doing the three climbs in total anyway, so...
36:42Delighted.
36:43It was a good experience overall and I'd definitely, definitely do it again.
36:46High five!
36:47That's set the standard, didn't it?
36:49Yeah, it has.
36:50With seven days of their guests' trip still ahead, Sharon and Bongo have a packed schedule.
36:55But today's outcome has given the couple the reassurance they needed that their new business
37:01is on track to be a success.
37:06For Sharon and Bongo, the idea of moving to Spain once seemed far-fetched.
37:12Big hug!
37:13Casa del Bienestar!
37:16But now, over two years into their journey, they could never have envisaged how far they'd come.
37:22Lovely to see you!
37:24Yeah, it's been fabulous!
37:25Yeah!
37:25It was a blast!
37:29With a revolving door of happy guests enjoying their accommodation, Bongo's food and Sharon's classes,
37:36the couple have slipped into their role as hosts seamlessly.
37:41But it hasn't always been easy adapting to every obstacle that's been thrown in their way.
37:46This year has been all about trial and error, and some things have worked, some things haven't,
37:52and we're still working that out.
37:53But we are starting to learn some of the things that people really want.
37:56So, yeah.
37:57Yeah.
37:58Very proud of what we've done.
37:59Yeah.
38:01The couple have poured blood, sweat and tears into building their life here,
38:06not to mention investing nearly €20,000 in creating a haven for their guests.
38:12But they're finally beginning to reap the rewards.
38:18The future looks as bright as the sun, I think, so we still have to perfect what we're offering.
38:24But I think we've achieved a lot, and we now have more and more to offer for our guests as
38:28well.
38:28So, yeah, very pleased.
38:30Yeah, we've not made any money, but, you know, we're having fun.
38:33It's a long way from their life back in Edinburgh,
38:36and despite there being plenty more challenges ahead, the couple would have it no other way.
38:42Never in a month of Sundays would I have imagined having the opportunity to come out and live here.
38:46It's been...it's been just a dream.
38:49Every morning I get up and go for a wee bike ride before the sun gets scorched and just look
38:54around and go,
38:55this is amazing.
38:56If I was in Edinburgh right now, it'd be pouring with rain.
38:59Yeah, it's a completely different life.
39:02A life that I'd only ever dreamed of, and now it's becoming a reality.
39:07So, yeah, very, very happy with the decision we made. Very happy.
39:20Back over in France at Mark and Hayley's Jeep business, it's now September, and the pair have spent the summer
39:27in full hosting mode.
39:30We have had such a busy summer, really, really hot, but amazing.
39:34The golf course has suffered a little bit with the weather, but we've managed to recover that, and the green's
39:38coming back to life.
39:39A huge relief for the couple, as their next set of guests are arriving with one thing in mind.
39:46He's a keen golfer, isn't he? Yeah, he is.
39:48He's a very keen golfer, so he's so excited about seeing the tee holes, isn't he, and stuff.
39:54He's looking forward to it. Yeah.
39:56Having a little bit of a competition.
40:00Before advertising their latest amenity to potential guests, they're hoping Mark's friend and golfing buddy, Ryan...
40:07Hi, mate, you all right? I'm good.
40:09...along with his wife, Ree, can give the course their seal of approval.
40:13Hi, Ree, you all right? Hi.
40:15Nice to see you again. You all right?
40:16The couple have travelled 500 miles to get here, but Ryan is focused on just one thing.
40:23Is it ready to go yet?
40:26It's got nice stripes in it now.
40:28Yeah.
40:29I've been fussy about you the whole summer.
40:32Oh, if Ryan was to see it now, oh, it's dead, oh, my God, how am I going to get
40:36it back up?
40:36Honestly, it was terrible, but it's not no more. It's looking lovely.
40:40So, sod the house, do you want to kind of look?
40:44Mark and Ryan have been playing golf together for seven years, so feedback on the course is top of Mark's
40:51priorities.
40:53I'm going to put a bunker here. Yeah?
40:55That's phase two.
40:58It's all right, isn't it? No, it's nice, thanks.
40:59The understated admiration is well-received.
41:03Oh, awesome.
41:04And Ryan's even bought Mark a very handy gift to celebrate their milestone.
41:09What is that?
41:11It's a month.
41:13Yeah, Hayley, you can see how it works.
41:16Oh, my God, that's amazing!
41:21You're easily pleased.
41:24With Mark and Hayley leaving their guests to settle into their new digs...
41:29In you come, guys.
41:32This is you for the week.
41:35The couple are feeling pleased, first impressions are good.
41:39It was quite good showing them around.
41:40You can see how much work we've done.
41:42And it's looking good now, so I'm sure we'll be out there every day.
41:46A few days later, the group are joined by another friend of Mark's.
41:51All right, Howard, let's get you a putter.
41:55Mark's waited all summer for the chance to play a round with friends on his homemade course,
42:00and today he's feeling confident.
42:03I will just mention I got a hole-in-one on here the other week.
42:06But no-one saw it, though.
42:08No! Hayley was my witness.
42:14Ah, it was a great strike.
42:16Get a bucket of beers, enjoy the sunshine, play like the par threes.
42:20Yeah, it'd be a perfect afternoon, wouldn't it?
42:22And for Mark, there is one other big advantage having your own golf course to practise on.
42:29Oh!
42:30He's taking the lead!
42:35A few days later, it's time to say goodbye to Ryan and Ree.
42:43Leaving Mark and Hayley to reflect on their trip and the successful summer they've had.
42:49We've achieved a lot, haven't we?
42:51We've put a lot of things in place.
42:53Golf course, up and running for the season this year.
42:56That was amazing just to watch people use it.
42:59We've already got repeat booking, so to me, that's an achievement in itself.
43:04There aren't many people that can say they've got a four-size hole and multiple tee boxes in the back
43:10garden.
43:11No.
43:12Although Hayley and Mark's golf course cost ÂŁ1,450 and countless hours to establish, it's already becoming a strong asset
43:22for the business.
43:24Just watching people use our facilities and just appreciating our hard work going into making people's holidays amazing.
43:34You don't even have to see people enjoying themselves. You can hear them, children running around, mums and dads chatting.
43:40That's really good.
43:41Yeah.
43:42It's paying off, isn't it?
43:44Yeah, yeah.
43:44It's working.
43:45With the business growing each year, Mark and Hayley's hard work has all been worth it.
43:51And as they look around at the life they've built here, they have no regrets on making the move.
43:57I think we're here to stay for a while, aren't we?
43:59Yeah, yeah, I think so.
44:01I like the culture.
44:02Yeah.
44:03I like the region we live in.
44:04We're rural, but we're not too far away from the town.
44:07I love it here.
44:08Yeah.
44:09I think at the moment life's quite good, isn't it?
44:11It's just fun, laughter and it's amazing.
44:14Yeah, there's nothing not to like.
44:22Next time...
44:23Just look at the gunge coming out of that.
44:25Dream project or house of horrors?
44:29Two publicans put everything on the line as they expand their hospitality empire.
44:35Quite run down, isn't it?
44:36Yeah.
44:36It needs a lot of work.
44:38Will a Bristol family's biker tours take off?
44:41We've run out of money.
44:42Expensive.
44:43We're emotionally trained, but we're cautiously optimistic.
44:47And in Bulgaria, it's a marathon, not a sprint.
44:51There's two done.
44:52Only another 98 to go.
44:54For a Dumfries couple.
44:56What's at stake is everything.
44:58What's at stake?
44:58What do you think?
44:59What do you think?
44:59What do you think?
45:00What do you think?
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