I thought traveling with toddlers was impossible. Now we live in Spain for 2 months at a time — and it's cheaper than Disney.
Business Insider
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A family’s journey to reconnect with their Spanish heritage has turned into an unexpected financial win. By spending two-month stints in Spain with their toddlers, they’ve discovered that extended travel can not only be affordable but even cheaper than a Disney trip. Thanks to freelancing flexibility and smart budgeting, the family saves on flights, accommodations, and daily expenses by living like locals and relying on public transportation.
The idea began as a desire to connect with their Cuban and Spanish roots. In 2018, they embarked on a road trip through Spain’s snow-capped mountains, reuniting with distant relatives and reigniting their passion for their heritage. Despite initial concerns about the practicality of long-term travel—highlighted by a chaotic airport experience—they persevered, learning tricks to make shorter trips manageable, like using inflatable beds and snacks to calm toddler meltdowns.
Over time, they realized that extended stays in Spain could be more cost-effective than traditional vacations. For example, a two-month trip costs around $4,220–$4,900 for an apartment in major cities, which is cheaper than a week-long Disney vacation ($6,000–$10,000). By booking longer Airbnb stays and using airline miles to fly for free, they’ve made the arrangement work. Once in Spain, they focus
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/22/2026