Spanish hotel porter in Ireland saves €1,000 monthly : “Impossible salary in Spain” – Hugo Renedo

Spanish hotel porter in Ireland saves €1,000 monthly : "Impossible salary in Spain" - Hugo Renedo

In a striking tale of financial success abroad, Hugo Renedo, a young Spanish professional, has found an unexpected path to prosperity in Ireland. His story challenges conventional notions about career progression and highlights the potential benefits of international work experiences.

From golf course to five-star hotel: Hugo’s journey

Hugo Renedo’s career trajectory took an unexpected turn when he decided to leave his job at a golf course in Salamanca, Spain. Despite holding a dual degree in Business Administration and Computer Engineering from the Pontifical University of Salamanca, Renedo felt trapped by a glass ceiling in his home country.

In July 2023, at the age of 27, Renedo made a bold move to Ireland. His decision was met with mixed reactions from his family:

  • His father was delighted, encouraging him to seize opportunities he never had
  • His mother found it more challenging to accept

Initially landing a job at Zara, Renedo quickly transitioned to a position at The Shelbourne, a prestigious five-star hotel in Dublin. His role as a porter, valet, and receptionist has proven to be both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling.

Financial windfall in the emerald isle

Renedo’s move to Ireland has resulted in a significant financial uplift. He now earns over €2,000 monthly, supplemented by generous tips. This income allows him to save a minimum of €1,000 each month, a feat he considers “unthinkable” in Spain.

His current financial strategy includes:

  • Investing 70% of savings in index funds, variable income, Bitcoin, and stocks
  • Planning future real estate investments, particularly for student rentals
  • Maintaining an austere lifestyle to maximize savings

Renedo’s experience aligns with a broader trend of young Spanish professionals seeking better financial prospects abroad. The table below illustrates the stark contrast between his current situation and typical salaries in Spain:

Location Monthly Salary Monthly Savings
Ireland (Renedo’s current job) €2,000+ €1,000+
Spain (Average for recent graduates) €1,400 Minimal

Balancing act: financial gains vs. quality of life

While Renedo’s financial situation has improved dramatically, he acknowledges that life in Ireland comes with its own set of challenges. The young Spaniard notes that quality of life in Ireland differs significantly from Spain, particularly in terms of:

  • Weather conditions
  • Work-life balance
  • Social connections
  • Public transportation efficiency

Despite these drawbacks, Renedo remains committed to his current path. He views his time in Ireland as an investment in his future, stating, “Am I less happy than in Spain? Yes, but in exchange, I have savings capacity, a pension plan, and I can better organize my future.”

To maintain ties with his homeland, Renedo allocates approximately €100 monthly for trips back to Spain or other international travel. He aims to visit Salamanca every other month, balancing his new life abroad with connections to his roots.

Navigating the Irish job market

Renedo’s experience sheds light on the nuances of finding employment in Ireland. He notes that while job opportunities are plentiful in Dublin, securing a position with favorable conditions can be challenging.

His observations on the Irish job market include:

  • A high percentage of Spanish managers in certain retail chains
  • The prevalence of Hispanic workers (around 45%) in his current workplace
  • Flexible working hours, unlike the split shifts common in Spain
  • Opportunities to network with influential clients in the hospitality industry

Renedo’s advice for those considering a similar move is pragmatic: “Visit the country first and see if it’s for you. Don’t be afraid to take the step because, in the end, one or two years of your life won’t go anywhere, and you can always return home.”

Looking ahead, Renedo doesn’t envision returning to Spain in the next decade. Instead, he’s considering moves to countries like Switzerland or Luxembourg, which he perceives as less chaotic than Ireland. However, his ultimate goal remains to work in a field related to his studies, regardless of the location.

Hugo Renedo’s story serves as a compelling example of how international work experiences can open doors to financial opportunities and personal growth. While acknowledging the trade-offs, his journey highlights the potential rewards for those willing to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new challenges in foreign lands.

Clara Byrne
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