Amsterdam resident, Rebecca Pierik, journeys to Benidorm
In the sun-kissed region of Costa Blanca, Spain, Rebecca Pierik has found more than just a change of scenery. For the past eleven years, she has been embracing the local culture, building connections, and sharing her love for Spanish cuisine through her authentic cooking workshop.
Originally from Amsterdam, Pierik moved to Spain in 2014, driven by a desire to live like the Spanish and immerse herself in their culture. After a month-long house rental with her mother, they drove to Spain, while her father flew. Initially, Pierik considered moving to Barcelona or Málaga, but she ended up in Benidorm.
The cooking workshop, launched a few months ago with her partner, has been a resounding success. Participants attend a two-hour session where they learn to make traditional dishes like paella, alioli, and pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato). After the cooking, everyone gathers to share the meal while the hosts handle the clean-up. Bookings are frequent, with full reservations already for September 2025.
Pierik's move to Spain was not just about the sun and foreign living. She emphasises that she wanted to integrate into the culture, improve her language skills, and form real connections in Costa Blanca. In addition to teaching Spanish to Dutch learners, she holds a lifeguard license and is an active member of two local supporters' clubs for Athletic Bilbao.
Before the cooking workshop, Pierik worked in a Dutch bar within a month of her arrival. Comparing the high cost of living in Amsterdam (€2,500 a month) to the lower expenses in Spain (€1,000 a month), she found Spain a more appealing option. Initially, she stayed in Spain during the financial crisis due to the impossibility of selling her house in the Netherlands.
In the past, Pierik has volunteered with the Red Cross in Altea, helping with emergency response and working on ambulances in Benidorm. After returning to the Netherlands, she found herself in the midst of a deep economic crisis, without work, a partner, or a home. However, her move to Spain proved to be a turning point in her life.
No other recent updates or events related to the workshop were found in the search results. This information reflects the most current and relevant details available as of August 2025.
- Rebecca Pierik, having experienced lower living expenses in Costa Blanca, Spain, decided to invest in her small-business, a successful cooking workshop where she and her partner teach traditional Spanish dishes.
- Despite finding immense joy in immersing herself in the Spanish culture, language, and lifestyle, Pierik continues to maintain connections and conduct business in her native country, specifically teaching Dutch learners and actively engaging with local supporters' clubs for Athletic Bilbao.
