From Sint-Andries to San Andrés: same sound, different life
moving to Tenerife
Since moving to Tenerife, we’ve been living in San Andrés, a charming fishing village on the island’s northeast coast, just outside the vibrant capital, Santa Cruz.
Especially my husband, a born and raised West Flemish guy, felt at home right away. Not too surprising, perhaps: his mother lives in Sint-Andries, a district of Bruges.
When we arrived, we joked:
“We didn’t emigrate… we just moved from Sint-Andries to San Andrés!”
life in Tenerife vs Belgium
And the more we explored, the more name similarities we noticed between Tenerife and Bruges. Santa Cruz sounds a lot like Sint-Kruis, San Miguel like Sint-Michiels, and San Juan like Sint-Jan all districts of Bruges.
Perhaps West Flemish people are simply destined to end up in Tenerife!
The same sound but a different language, a different rhythm and a different culture.
And yet… there are some unexpected similarities too.
similarities between Tenerife and Bruges
What feels familiar
- The village vibe: both Sint-Andries and San Andrés are quiet, local communities with a strong sense of identity. You quickly get to know the baker, the neighbour, and your favourite bartender.
- A slower pace: in both places, people take time to shop, chat and enjoy a coffee. Life isn’t lived in a rush.
- Nature nearby: Sint-Andries borders the Tillegem forest, while San Andrés lies at the foot of the Anaga Mountains, a haven for hikers and nature lovers.
living in San Andrés Tenerife
What feels different
- The weather, obviously: In San Andrés, we dine outdoors all year long. In Sint-Andries, you’re often reaching for a sweater, even in July.
- The scenery: no brick houses or manicured lawns here. Think bright and colourful façades, palm trees and the Atlantic Ocean just a few steps away.
- The mindset: while Flemish people are practical and efficient, Tinerfeños are more relaxed. And yes ‘mañana’ really does mean mañana…
Flemish expat story
Clearly exchanging Sint-Andries for San Andrés was simply meant to be.
There’s something universal about a village filled with friendly people and room to breathe.
Whether it’s San Andrés or Sint-Andries it’s that feeling of being welcome that makes a place feel like home.
expats in Tenerife
Which place ever gave you that unexpected “I feel right at home here” feeling?
