Meet Christina Nissen: 25 years loving life on the Costa del Sol!

Christina Nissen is a woman on an important mission; to keep her customers’ homes, belongings and families safe from crime.

Director of Alarma Universal in Fuengirola, Christina settled in Spain 25 years ago. Originally from Denmark, she had finished her studies and was deciding what career path to take, when her parents decided to move to Spain to start their own business. With no ties and nothing to lose, Christina decided that she too would start a new life on the Costa del Sol. Over two decades later, she considers this her home…
 

What is a typical day in the office like for you?

I arrive around 9.30am and the first thing I have to do is check my emails to see what incidents have occurred during the night. If there have been any burglaries, or other major events, I need to be on top of them straightaway; supervising the onsite team, talking to the family or customer and ensuring that all the necessary measures have been taken, such as contacting the police, service providers, locksmiths, technicians, etc.

Many of our clients don’t live here permanently though, so if anything happens to their home while they are away, we take charge. We’re here, when you’re not.

What do you love most about living on the Costa del Sol?

I work hard, but I love coming to work. Our team is like a family, we’ve been working together for so many years.  Everyone has the same vision; I don’t think you get that closeness working in big cities, or in colder climates. But here, the sun shines, we enjoy life, we work happy!

Favourite weekend jaunt in Andalucía?

I adore Zahara de los Atunes in the province of Cádiz. It’s a small, but beautiful village. It has one of the best beaches on the coast and a great atmosphere.

Favourite Andalusian dish?

Without question, Ensaladilla Rusa (Russian Salad) and Spanish Tortilla. Both very typical dishes Andalusian dishes, but I love them!

Best view on the Coast?

The view from my home! I have the most amazing view towards the mountains. It’s stunning, I will never tire of that view, that’s for sure.

What do you miss most about Denmark?

Not much! I hardly go back at all. But I suppose if there is anything I miss, it would be city life. I’m from Copenhagen and I do occasionally miss the culture and choice of a big city. And when that does happen, I just head to Barcelona, one of my favourite Spanish destinations.

And finally, what’s your top survival tip for living on the Costa del Sol?

If you’re going to live here, you have to give it your all. Don’t make the move half-heartedly, open your heart and mind to local culture and life, you won’t regret it.  And be sincere, definitely be sincere!

Christina Nissen is director of VIVA RECOMMENDS Corporate Partners, Alarma Universal. With 30 years’ experience on the Coast, installing the latest technology alarms linked to a 24-hour state-of-the-art, multilingual control centre – plus other security equipment – they have a wealth of experience to ensure the highest levels of security and peace of mind.

Visit the Alarma Universal microsite for more information or call +34 952 461 037