The Gillis family rules out returning to the Netherlands: “We will stay here.” RTL Street

The family admits they mainly see the benefits. “Our site covers an area of ​​26,000 square metres, although our house is now smaller than what we had in Tulenbeek. The dog Bella and the cats are also enjoying the whole space,” concludes mother Janicki. “In the Netherlands we were also happy with family and friends, but here we have more time for each other.” Children also have a good time. “They make new friends and the people here are really heartwarming.”

However, it's not all roses and the moon. “At first, you get a sense of vacation, but that fades.” The family also had to deal with some setbacks. They have been without water for several months, because they are the highest house in this area, and the water pressure cannot withstand during the hottest period of the year. “Somehow, it put things into perspective for us to wash each other on the porch. Don't do that at Tulenbeck! We've learned to appreciate the little things through setbacks.”

Janneke is looking forward to going live with their spin-off series A house full of immigrants, but he's also a little afraid of the reactions they'll receive. For example, in Tulenbeck's emotional farewell. “I'm curious to see how this will look on viewers. Plus, I sometimes worry that I've gained a few kilos since the move. I hope people don't say anything about it.”

In the meantime, they are certainly enjoying the Spanish sun to the fullest, and are not keen on returning to the Netherlands. “No, I think we'll stay here,” Janicki laughs. “For children – especially girls – it’s different. You don’t know what the future holds, even in terms of studies and friends. Anyway, we will set up a caravan in the Netherlands, so that the children don’t depend on others because they want to visit the Netherlands.”