Estepona's AREME: 20 Years of Giving Back - But What's NEXT?!

Estepona's Foreign Residents Association, AREME, is kicking off 2026 with a major cause for celebration: their 20th anniversary! That's right, for two decades, this little non-profit has been the go-to hub for Expats in this corner of the Costa del Sol, offering everything from a friendly face to a helping hand.

Estepona's AREME: 20 Years of Giving Back - But Wh...

Founded back in 2006, AREME has quietly become an indispensable part of the expat experience here. They're officially registered, which is important, and maintain close contact with the local authorities. This means they can actually advocate for the needs and concerns of foreign residents, making the transition to Spanish life a little smoother. Honestly, navigating bureaucracy in a new country can be a nightmare, so having an organization like AREME is a huge relief.

But it's not all serious business! AREME understands that community is built on more than just paperwork and official channels. They host regular coffee mornings, which I hear are legendary for their relaxed atmosphere and great conversation. Then there are the quiz nights – a fantastic way to meet people, have a laugh, and, importantly, raise money for local charities. It's a win-win.

To mark this special anniversary, AREME is inviting new members and reminding old friends to renew their membership. A measly €10 a year keeps the whole show on the road – ensuring the coffee mornings continue, the quiz nights stay lively, and the association can keep championing the interests of the foreign community. Considering the value they provide, it's a steal, really.

Francine Pompas, the current president, along with Sally Robinson (Treasurer), Jim Stevenson (Secretary), and the rest of the team, are clearly excited about the year ahead. They're aiming to make 2026 a truly unforgettable one. And based on what I've seen, they're well on their way.

Whether you're a long-time Estepona resident or just arrived, AREME seems to offer that sense of belonging that can be so crucial when you're living abroad. It’s a place to forge new friendships, find support, and contribute to the community. They're located at aremespain.org if you want to check out what they have going on - or you can just pop into a coffee morning! Seems like a great way to start a year... or a new life!

So, here's to 20 years of AREME! May the next two decades be just as filled with community, friendship, and giving back.