A Place in the Sun, the televisual equivalent of a travel brochure, returns with another dose of aspirational escapism. This time, it’s Shropshire couple Sharon and Paul, workplace sweethearts of two decades, in search of a Spanish haven. With nuptials on the horizon, their wanderlust has apparently intensified, demanding a readily accessible retreat. Gran Alacant, on Spain’s Costa Blanca, is their chosen locale, a sensible if somewhat predictable choice, though whether their £135,000 budget will stretch to their dream casa is another matter.
Jean Johansson, ever the chipper property matchmaker, has her work cut out for her, presenting five potential options to the demanding duo. Will it be love at first sight with a beachfront villa, or a grudging acceptance of a fixer-upper with “potential”?
Let’s be honest, the formula here is well-worn. Couple desires idyllic escape; presenter delivers a mixed bag of properties; couple inevitably frets over budget; mild tension ensues; a decision (usually slightly above budget) is made; roll credits. But despite its formulaic nature, A Place in the Sun endures. It’s easy viewing, it’s reliably sunny, and let’s face it, who doesn’t enjoy vicariously house-hunting in sun-drenched locales from the comfort of their own slightly-less-sun-drenched sofa?
Tune in to Channel 4 on Monday, November 25, 2024, at 4PM to witness Sharon and Paul’s quest for a pre-wedding Spanish escape.
