Jade Gartshore, originally from Leicester, has taken to TikTok to express her adoration for Murcia, the city she now calls home. She’s urging tourists to give Barcelona a miss
A Brit expat has discovered a “hidden gem” in Spain, with a move to the serene city of Murcia turning her life into an adventure straight out of a fairytale. Leicester-born Jade Gartshore, known on TikTok as @jadeinspain, can’t stop singing the praises of her new home.
On the scenic Segura River, amidst a treasure trove of history and culture, sits Murcia; a place where architectural wonders meet in a dance of Moorish, Gothic, and Baroque styles, boasting landmarks such as the Santa María Cathedral and the majestic Real Casino de Murcia. Although brimming with beauty, this Spanish haven – often fondly referred to as “La Huerta” for its green orchards – has yet to become a tourist hotspot, only welcoming 1.1 million international sightseers in 2024 while Barcelona magnetised a colossal 15 million the year prior.
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Jade’s enthusiasm pours through her viral TikTok post as she shares, “I left the United Kingdom to move to Murcia, Spain. I am so in love. Look at this, this is my morning walk,” followed by a sweeping view of an idyllic seascape.
Her love for Murcia shines as she says: “I can’t believe I live in such a beautiful place in the world. One of my favourite things about living in Murcia is actually that it’s a hidden gem.”
Jade appreciates the exclusivity of her surroundings, adding: “I love that people don’t really come here and that it’s a very special place because I feel that if I lived in Barcelona or somewhere else, it wouldn’t have the same feel.”
The Murcia Cathedral, the city’s most iconic landmark, boasts a stunning blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture that is sure to captivate, reports the Express. Ascend the tower (Torre de la Catedral) for panoramic views over the city.
Take a leisurely stroll through the historic centre, a maze of narrow streets, charming squares, and beautiful historic buildings. Don’t miss out on visiting the Real Casino de Murcia. This historic building showcases a variety of styles, including Moorish and modernist.
Or take a breather at Floridablanca Garden. As one of Spain’s oldest public parks, it offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush greenery, fountains, and sculptures.
Thinking about a getaway to Murcia? Here’s your guide to getting to this serene Spanish haven:
1. By Air: A swift 2.5 to 3-hour flight from major UK airports like London, Manchester, and Birmingham will land you straight into Corvera International Airport (RMU), just 12 miles from the heart of Murcia city.
Budget-friendly options are available with carriers such as Ryanair and easyJet.
2. By Train: Enjoy a picturesque train journey with multiple transfers, taking approximately 19 hours and 54 minutes from London to Murcia, with routes passing through Paris and Alicante.
3. By Bus: For those who don’t mind lengthy journeys, buses are available although they take longer, expect around 35 hours on the road, with layovers in cities such as Paris.
4. By Car and Ferry: For those who enjoy the open road, consider a car ferry journey from the UK to Spain, followed by a scenic drive down to Murcia – a fantastic option for those with time on their hands.