About Me
Hi, I'm Alex Martinez. I've been living and working as a digital nomad in Spain since 2021, and I've learned the hard way how to navigate Spanish mobile networks without overpaying.
My Story
I moved to Madrid in early 2021 for what I thought would be a six-month work project. Three years later, I'm still here, and I've become somewhat of an expert on Spanish mobile internet by necessity.
When I first arrived, I made every mistake possible. I bought an expensive tourist SIM at the airport. I signed up for a contract I didn't understand. I paid hidden fees I didn't know existed. After my first year, I'd spent over €400 more than I needed to on mobile data.
That's when I decided to figure out the system properly. I started testing different providers, comparing prices, tracking actual costs versus advertised costs, and documenting everything. What started as personal research became this website.
What I Do
I work remotely as a software consultant, which means I need reliable internet everywhere I go. I've tested mobile networks in cities, small towns, and rural areas across Spain. I've used prepaid SIMs, contracts, eSIMs, and online top-up platforms.
My work requires me to be online constantly - video calls, large file transfers, remote server access. So I've had to find solutions that actually work, not just what looks good in advertising.
This website is my way of sharing what I've learned so others don't make the same expensive mistakes I did.
My Testing Methodology
I don't just read provider websites and compare prices. I actually use each service for at least 3-6 months before writing about it. I track:
- Actual monthly costs (including all hidden fees)
- Real-world speed tests in different locations
- Coverage in cities, towns, and rural areas
- Customer service response times and quality
- Reliability and downtime
- Ease of setup and management
I update my guides regularly as providers change their plans, prices, and policies. The mobile internet landscape in Spain changes frequently, and I keep up with those changes.
Why Trust Me?
I'm not affiliated with any mobile provider. I don't receive commissions or sponsorships. I buy and test services with my own money, just like you would.
I'm honest about what works and what doesn't. If a service has problems, I'll tell you. If there's a better option, I'll recommend it. My goal is to help you save money and avoid frustration, not to promote any particular provider.
I've been using Spanish mobile networks daily for three years. I've tested over 15 different services, spent thousands of euros (unfortunately), and learned what actually works versus what's just marketing.
Where I've Tested
I've tested mobile networks in:
- Madrid (where I live) - all major providers
- Barcelona - multiple trips, different providers each time
- Valencia - tested during a two-month stay
- Seville, Granada, Malaga - shorter trips but comprehensive testing
- Rural areas in Andalusia, Castilla-La Mancha, and Extremadura - where coverage really matters
I've also tested eSIMs and online top-up platforms from various locations, including while traveling outside Spain.
What's Next
I'm constantly testing new services and updating my guides. I'm currently evaluating some newer eSIM providers and keeping an eye on how 5G coverage is expanding in Spain.
If you have questions or want me to test something specific, feel free to contact me. I can't test everything, but I'm always interested in hearing about new options or problems people are experiencing.
Outside of Mobile Internet
When I'm not testing mobile networks or working, I enjoy exploring Spain's smaller towns, trying local food, and learning Spanish (still working on it after three years). I'm also an avid photographer, though most of my photos end up being of Spanish architecture and landscapes rather than mobile network equipment.
I write about mobile internet because it's something I've had to figure out, and I know how frustrating it can be. If my experience can help someone else avoid the mistakes I made, that's worth sharing.
Want to get in touch? I'm always happy to answer questions or help with specific situations. Send me a message and I'll do my best to help.