Social capital in the sun: Bonding and bridging social capital among British retirees

Casado-Diaz, Maria

Abstract

This chapter explores social networks between English-speaking retirees located in Calpe, a municipality on the Costa Blanca, Spain. Using the concept of social capital and the device of leisure, this chapter discusses the systems of social relations and types of social capital found within retirement communities consisting predominantly of Britons. The analysis explores themes related to social capital, friendship and community and discusses the relevance of leisure activities and practices in the creation on social capital. Drawing on qualitative data gathered through in depth interviews, group discussions and observation of meetings of members of the Calpe University of the Third Age branch. This chapter highlights the salience of friendship and the role of leisure pursuits in the creation of social capital among British retirees living in Calpe.

• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2009
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 8, 2019
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Series Title: Studies in Migration and Diaspora
• Book Title: Lifestyle Migration: Expectations, Aspirations and Experiences
• ISBN: 9780754675679
• Keywords: social capital, bonding, British, retirees
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1001199
• Publisher URL: http://www.ashgatepublishing.com/default.aspx?page=637&calcTitle=1&title_id=8477&edition_id=8731