> I'd argue it's better than Portugal.

Why is it better?

For work we find the technology community more diverse and deeper. Also for internationals choosing to move to somewhere attractive Spain offers a great balance of lifestyle and work. I would argue Lisbon is sort of the exception in Portugal; and even then it is a bit limited with no real domestic scene more people seeking low cost or nearshoring.

We were considering moving the company to Spain after Brexit but the reputation of the Spanish tax office as extremely bureaucratic and unfair is a huge deterrent.

Purportedly they can fine you tens of thousands of euros for tiny honest mistakes even if you don't owe one cent of tax (Modelo 720).

So far so good for us, but that's why we pay our accountant! We'll see what happens end of next year.

If you have questions drop me a line.

I prefer Portuguese people since I speak Portuguese and Portuguese are much more welcoming and friendly. This could change with overtourism which also makes Lisbon comparably expensive. Spain is more diverse and still has cheap big cities. Cheaper than Lisbon.

Has the smoking situation improved any? Remember a lot of it indoors in Iberia.

Smoking indoors is highly regulated now (thankfully).

The next question to that is do people comply with them? From your tone, I'm guessing yes.

None is is better. Both are great.

Good luck getting by on English alone though.

I think it depends what city you are in, we have not found any problems in Southern Spain, but I cannot speak for elsewhere.